William Penn Trial

speaking to you from Old Bailey Courthouse in the heart of the City of London. Here on this late afternoon of September 5th, 1670, the legal battle that has aroused all Englanders, its final, its climactic hour.

The jury is about to return for the third time in the case of the crown versus William Penn, the well-known Quaker leader. That jury has been out for the past six hours, locked up by order of the court without food, without drink.

We still don't know if they'll stand fast. Stick to their guns. Defy the pressure and the prestige of this court. And once again, as they've done twice before, bring in a verdict that absolves young can of any criminal guilt.

If the jury remains firm, unyielding, then here in Old Bailey the Crown will suffer a stunning defeat. If the jury gives in, changes their verdict, and as everyone knows, not only will the government of King Charles II Achiever, considerable triumph of the entire principle of trial by a free and independent jury may go into the discard for centuries to copy.

Word has come from the jury room that their deliberations are over. They're ready once again to deliver a verdict. We're waiting now for the court to reassemble. The crowds here are all in their seat.

The soldiers... September 5... 1670... Oh, baby, I'll stay sure back 280 years to the trial of William Penn. 12 years before he founded Pennsylvania. The charge, speaking to an unlawful assembly of people and inciting them to riot.

All things are as they were then, except for one thing. With all the modern facilities of radio present and CBS Newsmen reporting from the scene, you are there. You are there as based on historical fact and quotation.