/ ••: ■' ' V .' .-: \. J. o • K ,SJ V^ ' • « S - > ^;^ .0^ '^V f^"^~" "'^ ^v^' .r-^-.-^^ '^^ o o V S o^ x"^--^ : SI ■■•- S- te#.- S- o t^ o'^ o C"^^^^ "-.. '^ •^ ^«^. \^ .^^ 4 o .'\ ^ * D.TfV PREFACE. If I have a prejudice against or partiality for any political party, such that I am incapable of taking an impartial view of its proceedings, and of telling the truth of it irrespective of the antagonisms, that de- mand concealment on the one hand and perversion on the other, I ara unconscious of the fact. I know that in making the " Circuit of the Conventions," in the capacity of a journalist, I endeavored to pursue the path of candor ; and that this was not only my personal feeling but the policy of the journal with which I am connected. In the first letter of the correspondence from which this publication is largely made up, I promised to remember in my writings of the Con- ventions the entreaty of Othello, concerning information to be des- patched from Cyprus to Venice : " I pray you, in yeur letters, When you shall these unlucky deeds relate, * * * Nothing extenuate, Nor set down aught in malice " — I should consider the displeasure and hostile criticisms of partisans of all persuasions and organizations, the best testimony that I have kept this promise. M. H. CONTENTS. Page The Charleston Convention 1 The Constitutional Democratic Convention at Charleston ... 97 The Baltimore National Constitutional Union Convention 104 The Chicago Convention 120 The Constitutional Democratic Convention at Richraonil 154 The National Democratic Convention at Baltimore 159 Institute Hall ('-Secedcrs") Convention 217 The Second Richmond Convention 231 THE CHARLESTON CONVENTION. The Hon. Stephen A. Douglas was the pivot individual of the Charleston Convention. Every delegate was for or against him. Ev- ery motion meant to nominate or not to notninate him. Every parlia- mentary war was pro or con Douglas. On the route to Charleston, delegates and others who were proceed- ing to attend the Convention, talked about Mr. Douglas. The ques- tions in every car and at every station, were : Would he be ? could he be? should he be nominated? Could he get a majority of the Conven- tion ? could he get two-thirds ? Would the South support him if he .should be nominated? Would the Administration acquiesce if he were nominated ? NOTES BY THE WAY. [The following extract from a letter written at Atlanta, Ga., April 17th, will give an idea of the spirit of Southerners when en route for the Convention :] AtlajsiTA. Ga.. April 17th. We had interesting political talk on the cars this evening. Two Georgians were disputing as to the strength of Douglas in the State. One, a Charleston delegate, said he would not do. He might possibly vote for him if nominated, but it would be with great reluctance. He did not know but one man in favor of Douglas in his district. The other had been defeated as a candidate for Charleston delegate. He said Douglas men were thick as blackberries all through the region from which he came. Douglas would carry the State by twenty thou- sand majority. " Let him be nominated, and there will be such a war- whoop as never was heard in the land." The same man said the old- line Democrats of Georgia were for Douglas, and the old-line Whigs and the Americans, turned Democrats, were against him. This man was asked if he believed in Douglas's doctrine of popular sovereignty, which was uo better than Abolitionism, and he said he " went the whole of it ; " and he was backed up by a Douglas man from Kentucky. The Georgians and Kentuckians generally, on the train, considered that it would nut do at all to run Douglas. Some man must be run who would unite the party — somebody not obnoxious to any section of it — .somebody who had not been so recently as Douglas fighting side by side with the Black Republicans against the one and indivisible De- mocracy. [Tlifi followinp; from a letter written nt Social Circle, Georgia, on the 18tli Apiil, is still farther illustrative :] SociAT, CiRCLK. Oa.. April 18th. We h;ive h;id warm times among the delejijates to the Convention pinoe cur stop hero. A conversation coninu'Dced at the dinner talile ahout Duu^'las. There wa.s a delei^ate from Indiana and an mitsider from KcnMicky. sitting very near a couple of Mii^sis.^-ippians, delegates, friend.-; of JifF. Davis, and " fire-eater.«." as we term them. Some private whi.-ky was pa.'jsed. and the Miss'ssippians drardc to " the health of the nominee." The que.-tion was asked whether that in- cluded O'.iiglas. IMississippi said he did not consider him in the ring at all. He [Douglas] had no chance of being the nominee, and there- fore, wlien he diank to the health of the nominee it did not include him. The Douglas man ihoutjht Doui^las should he included, and nro- ceeded to say that if he was nominated he must have the support of the entire Democratic patty. A man ciaild not go into a Ccnvon- tinn and then holt the notiiinee if not pleased with him — not at all, cer- tainly not with honor. Now, the ]Mis>is>ippiaiis do intend to holt Douglas if he is nominated, atid hence they were touched, and toi k fire. The controversy ran high. The Indianian was asked what he meant hy " Southern fanatics and fire-caters " — an express'on he had used — and he said, " such men as Jeff. Divis." This was foui liiiig the Mi.^,-is>ippians on a tender point. They demanded very explicitly to know in what respect Davis was fatiatieal — and the spccitications were rather vague. Mississippi wanted to know whether Davis had ever dccnanded any thing hut the riglits of the South, and if so, what V — and ^aid th't certain alh'gations made against the conservatism of Davis were mere falsehoods. Indiana claimed the same right to criticise Da- vis that Mi>sissippi had to criticise Douglas. Mississippi denied that. " Davis was a patriot, and Douglas was a traitor, d — d little hotter than Scward — that was the difF.-rence." Indiana talked i^hout fighting the hattles of the South in the North, and all that sort of thing. Mis- sissippi did not thank the Northern Di niocracy- for d.iing any such thing. 'J'he South was able to fight her own hattles, and to protect her rights. She could do this out of the Union, if not in it. Indiana talked ahout returning fugitive slaves, and Mississippi laughed scorn- fully. .Vnd as the pirties had to either het or fight, a het of one thou- sand ilollars was made on the spot. The Mississippian' het that Doug- las would not receive the electoral vote of that State if he were nomi- nated. The Fo iglasitc bet liiat he would. If Douglas is not nomi- nated at Chares on, the stakes are, of course, to he withdrawn * The feeling excited by this conlroveisy, was warm and general. The dele- gates who did not mix in. shook their heads and talked of stoiniy times ahead, and the peril in which the party would be placed. It was man- ifest that if the Mississippian and the Imlianian were joint repic.-enta- tive men of their sections, there was little chance for tiie nomination of a candidate who could, by any possibility, be elected, or of the cou- • Tlii* bi't wM wlltidrawn at tlio foliciUtion of mutual friciKLs from Kentucky. 3 strncMnn of a platform tliat wnulil be even fuperfi(;ijilly (satisfactory. The Mississi|)piatis utnlersfood theinselves tu liu of tin; clasH that riic- tate-s dtut.r'me to the Democratic pirty, and talked as if the party was their property, "peculiar," at that, and ratlier a worn (mt old rii;:<^er, welcome to die. Indiana talked of love for ihe puriy, and devofiuti to it., and a determination to support the nominee, whot-vcr he mii>-|it he. Mis8is-ippi talked of principle, and "damn the party," if it was not placed ^({aarely upon principle. In other words, if the party was not to serve the S.)Uth, its mission was a<'c()iiipli>ht'd. My Indiana fiii-nd was, I think, astonished to hnd a real live specimen of fire-eater and was rather emharrassed hy his discovery. J hiive dwelt on this scene thus fully, because it is a preliminary symptom of the Charleston C( nveniinn, and is, indeed, the hisioiy of the Convention in miniature and wanting the cliuiax. While the war went on, the Kentucky delegation, quiet, suhstantial gt-ntlemcn. who don't want office, and would not have ir, stood back, and talked in bns- iness-like style of the great merits as a man and availihili'y as a candi- date, of their fiietid, the Hon. James Guthrie. The Jlississippians have the Kreeport speech of Douglas with them, ar.d intmd to hdin- bard hitn in the Convention with ammunition drawn from ir. The ex- tract upon which they depend most, i^ that in which lie said " no matter what may be the decision of the Supreme Court," the people of a Ter- ritory could abolish slaveiy while in a territorial condiiion. Tli(ywill Use this remorselessly. However great may Im the weight of (he Doiw- las men in the Convention, he will he assailed mo.st bitttrly. The fi-ht against hiin involves, for a very large class of Southern politicians^ indeed, the most influential class of the time — the i.-sues of lift-, :ind those Southern men have a great advantage over the Dou^ilas men in the fact that they are sincere. They have prineiples. They stand up- on convictions, ami will tight until fiom thiir hones the flesh be hacked. The Douglas men. are not so st,ff in iheir hacks nor so strong in the faith. Ill a conversation with an Alaliama delegate to-day. I told him I presumed the South would have to put up with another platform t'apa- ble of a double construction ; he declared that inij o.'^sihle. I irquiied — " Don't you see the Douglas delegates don't agree with you, and can't and won't agree with you? Do )ou not know that if they went home to make a fight on the platform }ou in.-ist fhiy shall place them- Belves upon, th(y would lie hiaten in every Noithun Stale and ev» ry Northern' township, and that the m.ij u'lty against them in all the North- ern States would only he counted hy tens of thou.-andsV" No, he did not know any such thing. M;iyor Wood w:is a "sound man," and had cariiLd the city of N< w Yoik. He was as sound its any Southern man. Connecticut would have I een cirriid hy the D. mofiu- cy if there had not heen so niurh pm iering to Dougla.-i.-m. The way to flight, a battle was to fight it on pr nciplc. If the North was not wil- ling to stand squarely up for the Constitution with the Si. nth, it was high time the fact' were known. This camp lign was the test can'pai<;n. It must be foujiht on principle. There tnust be no Douglas dodoe,- no doiilde construetioi s — no janus-tact d lying lefolutions — no rionhle- tongued and doubly damned intiing with ilie people. The pe( pie were entitled to a fair fight, and must have it. What was the Democratic party for if it was not for the vindication of the great constitutional principles upon which our governmental fabric rests? I stated I had for some time t^trongly suspected that the Democratic party was an or- (»rtnization for the purpose of obtaining federal offices — in other words, a political corporation — like a great lottery company — for the distribu- tion of the spoils. I thought that I could safely speak for the party in the North, in that respect. lie repudiated, with indignation — obvious- ly sincere, too — all idea of the spoils. He was for Southern principle; and if the Democratic party was not for them it was against them — and if it was a spoils party, the sooner it was destroyed and sent to the devil, the better. As for the popular sovereignty doctrine, it was as bad as Sewardism ; it was the real practical Black Republicanism doctrine ; it was the veritable " short cut " — as Gov. Wise said in his Donnelly let- ter " to all the ends of Black Republicanism." " If the Republican party leaders had half sense (he said), they would adopt the Squatter Sovereignty platform at Chicago. It was the Chicago, not the Charles- ton card." I thought so too, but the difficulty was, the Republican leaders hadn't half sense, and couldn't see their game. His confidence in their polit- ical sagacity was far greater than ni-ine. The chances of Mr. Douglas for the Charleston nomination, were next in order. I spoke of the great pressure that would be brought to bear from the North, for Douglas. He said the nomination of Douglas was not a possibility. He put the case in this way : The North has had two Presidents. The South is willing, so far as she is concerned, that she shall have another one. But the South will not allow the Northern man, who, of all men claiming to belong to the Democratic narty, is most obnoxious, to be the candidate. The South has to per- form the principal part in the election of the President; and her feel- int^s must be respected. The nomination of Douglas would be an in- sult to her, which she must resent by defeating him at all hazards. And liere our coversation subsided into observations concerning cypress swamps, the inky Edisto river — a ditch fifty yards wide, filled with black ^yter — the lofty cypress trees — the yellow pines — the live oaks — the Spanish moss making the wilderness venerable — the white sand — ^^the red clay, etc., etc. rL.\CE3, PKUSONS AND POLITICS IN CHARLESTON BKFORE TTIK CONVEN- TION. There was in Charleston, as usual in such cases, much that was im- portant in the business preliminary to the Convention, and there are niiiny phices in the city intensified with the Convention in interest. Amon"' those places, jierhaps the most interesting are Institute Hall, where the Convention was held, and Ilibernia Hall, which was the Douglas head-quarters. , CUAKLESTON. April 20tl). The Institute Ilall where the Convention is to be held, will contain about ihreo thousand people. The floor is perfectly level, and the seats are all old-fashioned, wooden-bottomed chairs, whicri have been indepen- dent of each other heretofore, but which are now being screwed hy the half-dozen to pine planks placed acro.ss the bottotn. There is u good deal of gaudy and unceiith ornamentation altout the hull. The frcHCO- ing is mere daubing. The principal ofFnt in art i.s inimediatoly over the stage. Three highly colored but very improperly dressed females are there engaged. One seems to be contemplating matters and thing:-! in general. Another is mixing colors with the apparent intention of painting something. The other is pointing with what seems to be a common bowie-knife, to a globe. The point of the dagger is plunged into the Black Sea. It may be held to be according to the proprieties, that the continent which is outlined most conspicuously on this globe is marked " Africa." There are rooms behind the stage, and two private boxes above it. The Hall is situated on the principal thoroughfare and near the bus- iness centre of the city. The Hibernian Hall — the Douglas head-quar- ters is situated on the same street, a square and a half distant. This building has two large halls, and is two stories in height. The first floor is divided into two small rooms and one spacious hall, where a gigantic bard of Erin is holding a harp, such as was heard in Tara's Halls before the soul of music fled. Tbe smaller rooms are furnished with long tables, plenty of chairs and writing materials, and a large supply of Sheahan's Life of Stephen A. Douglas. The second floor is one large hall, and is full of cots for the Northwestern delegations. Thei-e are several hundreds of them, with white spreads and pillows. They are arranged in rows and sections, numbered and marked for the diflTjrent States. The Douglas men are to be found for the most part at the " Mills House." The fire-eaters congregate at the " Charleston." The spa- cious passages and public rooms about these houses are already swarm- ing with politicians. It must be admitted that the Southerners have the advantage in per-^onal appearance. The strong men of the South are here in force, as they always are upon such occasions. There is sufii- cient wisdom among the oligarchy to be represented in Congress and Conventions by men of experience and intellect, and they attain weighty advantages in this way. The arrival at the Charleston Hotel to-day, is that of the Hon. W. L. Yancey of Alabama, the prince of the fire-eaters. He is the man said to be charged with a three days' speech against Douglas. He is a compact, middle-sized man, straight limbed, with a square built head and face, and an eye full of expression. He is mild and bland in man- ner as Fernando Wood, and has an air of perfect sincerity which Wood has not. No one would be likely to point him out in a group of gentle- men as the redoubtable Yancey, who proposes according to common re- port to precipitate the cotton States into a revolution, dissolve the Union and build up a Southern empire. The strong point made against him by the Douglasites is that he is a disunionist It will not frighten hitn, nor his Southern friends, however, to apply that epithet to him. I very much doubt whether the Douglas men have a leader competent to cope with him in the coming fight. It is quite clear that while the North mny l>e ?tron!rost in vrtoa here, anrl the most noisy, the South will have the in'ellc'ut iini the pliiuk to iiiiike its pnirits. I dn not tl)ink uny iin- porta'iiin of DmivhiH m n can prevent the Convention from "wearing a ?-ouiliuin aspect," as ihe Mercury, of this city, said it must. Prom- inent in the crowd at the Mills Hi. use, is the burly foiin of the far- famed Geo. N S 'IkKts, New Yolk navy agent. The poliiiL-ians here are fond of inqiiring whether he feels eoiiif'ortalile ahout tlie neik, it being rumored tiiat the President is about to remove him fur his audac- ity in coming down here as a Douglas man. There are a greaf m;iny men of distinguished personal appearance to be seen ahout the hotels, as usual during National Conventions, speak- er>hip contists. and other times of extraordinary comim)ti(>n among pf)I- itieiaiis. A huge numl)er have the jieneral characteristics of fir>t class gamblers, an;las men generally respond by speaking of their champion facing dreadful mobs of lilack Repuldieans, and gaziiij; into the mouths of pistols, in defense of the riijhts of the South. They inquire further, whether Illinois has not always been true to the D. moeratie party. I heanl this question put to a fire-eater, and he said, '• Did'nt lllinoiselect a Black Republican Governor V" " Who was Bis- sellY" The resjionse of tlie Douglas man was, that Bissell was not not elected by a majority vote. 'Jhe Southern rejoinder was: " Dd Doiighis have a iiiaj .rity of the pnj)ular vote in his Senatorial eontest with Lincoln?" And the Douiilasi'e come back with a broadside, di- rected at the Danites, or Administration men, who gave Lincoln aid and comfort. And so the battle rages along the whole line. The Douglas men came down here from their head-quarters In Wash- ington, where whisky flows like a river. I>ike fome Ta.st river of unfailing source ; lOiniJ, exIiaustltMis deeii, • • « — they were full of enthusiasm — rampant and riotous — "hot as mon- keys" — iind procdaim th;it the universal world is for the Little Giant. They b:ive a desperate fight before them, and are brim full of the sound and fury of boablfulnesa. THE DOUGLAS DEMONSTRATION — SENATOR 6LIDKLL. CiiAui.ESTON, S. C, April 2lKt, 1860. The principal hotels swurm like hives this iiiornitig. Tlie greatest crowd is at the IMills ILiUMe, which is the Diiiglas head-quarteis The air is full of tobaecostiidke aixi riiiiiors. There is nothing detiriite to be found Oit. The private cmsukation rooms are the cent. e-i of inter- est, but it is impossible to arrive at results. The fiiends of Douglas are by no means disposed to talk about their second choice. They swear they have none, and will stick to Dug while the hair is on their heads. Tliey won't, however. M;my of them wouM be weary after two days' baUoting. Ttie Admini>tration and Southern U. S. Setiators scout the idea of the success (»f Douglas. They considtr his defeat a foregone conclusion. Slid« U was urged last week to come ilnwn and attend to the extermination of his enemy, but said at first, he would not — for theie was no danger of the nomination of the obnoxious individ- ual. The Douglas men made such demonstrations in Wn.-hington, however, an(i indicated such power and confidence, that " Old Hou- mas," as hL- enemies style him, concluded to come. He will be here this evening, and will operate against Douglas. He is a mai^:;hles8 wire -worker, Jind the news of his approach causes a flutter. His ap- pearance here means wur to the knile. It means also, that the Admin- istiation is uneasy on the Douglas question — and feel constrained to exert every influence against the Squatty Giant of Illinois, whose nom- ination would be perdition to Buchanan, Slidell & Co. There is not, however, for the moment, so much bitterness of denun- ciation in the talk of the Southern delegates here, as there was on the road. The Douglas element is so powerful, that it would be indiscreet to exasperate it. And the Dougla.-ites repeat very few of those dis- paraging words so familiar in their mouths at home, about the Southern fire-e.iters and fanatics. They sing low and roar gently about Southern seclionaliMii. All these ill humors must, however, have their breaking out in the heat of the Convention. In these jiiping times of private caucuses, the bad blood is diplomatically preserved for home consump- tion. TUE DAY PRECEDING THE CONVENTION DOUGLAS STOCK UP. Charleston, S. C, April 22d. The run of the current this morning is Douglas-ward. The friends of Douglas are encouraged by the events of last night. In the first place, the Executive Committee adjourned sine die, without repudia- ting the action of Judge Smalley, the Chairman, in issuing tickets to the Cagger, Ciissidy and Dean Richmond New Yorkers, and to the Douglas Illinois delegation. Fernando Wo d and Ike Cook and their delegations are full ot wrath, and denounce Smalley in extreme terms. The fight in the Executive Committee on the question of adjournment sine die, was a small fight between the Douglas ;ind Anti-Douglas men, and the former triumphed by one m^j irity. The Committee, however, was not full, only eighteen States being represented. This sends Doug- las stock up this Uioruing. Another thing is, the Southern dtlegationa have held caucnsop and consultations for two or three days, to try to agree upon a c-nndidnte upon whom to concentrate their vote, and upon the points of the platform. They had a special meeting last night and failed to accomplish any thing, except to exhibit their incapacity to come together. The game of the Douglas men, just now, is one they are not well qualified to play. It is to be quiet and conciliatory. They try to think and act upon the presumption, that they have the Convention in their hands, and wish to make all the friends they can in the South. They say, and it is possible there is some truth in it, that the failure of the South to unite, arises from secret Douglas influences. The ultra . Southerners aie becoming more bitter. The delegations from Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, Arkansas and Texas, have agreed to withdraw if Douglas should be nominated, and it is believed that a portion of the North Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky and Missouri ^ delegations would follow. The Douglas men look a little wild at this, but say they don't care, and console themselves by assuming that this course on the part of the South would be great gain to them in the North. They assert their ability to carry all the Northern States, if this Southern withdrawal should take place. The South is not unwil- ling, if it fails to control the Convention, so far as to defeat Douglas, to accept the hazard. The ultras have no doubt of their ability to carry six or eight, perhaps more. Southern States. They expect Douglas then to carry enough Northern States to carry the election into Congress, where they have no doubt the Senate would finally be called upon to elect. In case of the nomination of Douglas by the Convention, and the withdrawal of the Southern ultras — there would be a desperate battle fought in the ultra Snuthern States between the slave code and Douglas Democracy ; and it might do the fire-eaters great good to be whipped in that way upon their own ground. They have, however, unlimited confidence in their ability to carry their own States. Several incidents occurred last night to raise the spirits of the Doug- lasites. The majority of, the Pennsylvania delegation is against Douo-las and proposing in the caucus last night that Pennsylvania should vote as an unit in the Convention ; the Douglasites rebelled, and threat- ened to leave the caucus room if the movement of the majority were persisted in, whereupon the caucus adjourned, to meet at nine o'clock to-morrow morning, when the majority will experiment again on givino- the vote of the State solid. The prospect of attaining this solidity, is by no means flattering. On the other hand, in the Indiana delegation, the Dnuglas majmity triumphed, and the stiff-necked Adminishalion district delegates, Develin of Wayne, and Tabot of Marion, knocked under, and agreed to go with their Douglas brethren and cast the vote of the State as a unit My opinion still is that the chances are against the nomination of Douglas. I can see how he can get a majority vote but I cannot figure out a two-thirds vote for him. The tide of affairs 18, however, favorable to him to-day, and the capacity of the prcsuiijnf and vrliciiicnt bearers of the political fortunes of the Little Giant to realize their prophecies, may be very great. ^ THE NIGHT BEFORE THE CONVENTION. Chaulkston, S. C April 22- 10 P. M. The excitement in the city to-night is higher than heretofore. The politicians are in full blast. I think Douglas stock, which wont up a , little this morning, is now drooping. Passing l ^in im ' iHa . Hall this evening, I saw the Douglas delegation of Congressmen from Illinois, seated mournfully on the steps. Their na- tive resolution seemed sicklied o'er by the pale cast of thought, and to have lost the name of action. They were pensive and silent. There was Logan with his dark, narrow face, and black hair and eyes, gazing upon one of the pillars, his hat tilted far back on his head, his hands in his pockets, and his mouth full of tobacco. There was Col. McCler- nand, with peaked face, running to a hooked nose, sadly playing with his watch-guard. Presently there was Richardson, the Douglas leader in the Cincinnati delegation, and the champion in the House of Repre- sentatives, of the Little Giant, in the days of the Kansas Nebraska Bill. Poor Richardson has had a hard time of it. He left Congress, where he might have been a fixture, and made the canvass for Governor of Illi- nois against Bissell. He did this against his wishes, and to carry the State, where his popularity with his party is second only to that of Douglas. He was influential in carrying the State for Buchanan, but lost his own election He was appointed Governor of Nebraska, and resigned after the Lecompton rebellion, to escape removal. He is a fine specimen of a strong, coarse man. He has an immense no.^e and mouth, and fine eyes, and amid such scenes as are here being enacted, he is second to none as a, worker of sagacity and force. The Mills House, where Douglas " men most do congregate," is as lively as a molasses barrel with flies. Here is where the outside pressure is brought to bear. It is here that " public opinion " is rej)resented ac- cording to Douglas. Here they tell you Douglas must be the nominee — " all that is to be done is to ratify the voice of the people." There is nothing but a few ballots, and all is over — Douglas the nominee — South will come down — certain to be elected. The country safe — the party safe. They only want a "chance to raise the war-whoop for Douglas in the North-west — that's all. Carry every State North-west — carry Ohio? Lord, yes! Carry Ohio by twenty thousand. If somebody suggests, but where are your figures ? How can you obtain the two-thirds vote requisite to nominate ? And half a dozen of the makers of public opinion tell you all about it. Every thing North is claimed of course, and you hear that on certain ballots, Kentucky, Mis- souri, and Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, California and Oregon, are coming into line. "And suppose Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and Louisiana, with scattering delegates in other States, go out — what then?" "What? why tremendous gains in the North, to be sure, just the thing we want." But if you suggest, " Douglas stock is droop- ing a little this evening. It is not at the high mark it was this morning. You have enthusiasm enough, but you have not the votes." You are told, " Not a bit of it. Douglas stock down — not possible. It can't 0-0 down." 10 There is " For God's sake Linder," of Illinois. TTo made a speech last niglir, in Hilicrriia Hall to the faithful, somothin^ jilfer the John Brougli f>tyle of uliqtience. Ilis lineti suffered in theiff.nt, and he has not l)eeri at |iaiiis to conceal the evidences of his enthu>ia,-ni by the proper change. Ilis collar and cravat have seen service evidently. He gets his name " For God's sake Linder," from a letter which Douglas once wrote him saying, "for God's sake, Linder, come down here, I need hidp. " Some enterprising editor obtained a cojty of the letter, and printed it, atid it has not been forgotten. There is the en- terpri>ing firm of Faran & McLean, looking solemn as the grave, and button holeini; some lefiactory delegate, telling him how es.^entiai it is to the safe'y of the universe that Douglas shouhi be noniinaied. Tliey of cour.-e don't feel any personal interest in tlie matter. They are af- flicted with principle only. T. .leff Sherlock, Esq., is looking in upon the crowd, and don't thiidc Douglas can be nominated. He represents the Collec'or's ofiTce, and the virtuous Douglas men, who don't want office, itiM-t that he is ncdjody because he is in offi(;e. And radiant in a full suit of white along comes W J. Flagg, E-q., legislator — the man who was so bold as to advocate the admission of fresh air info the hall of a delilieraiive assembly in Ohio. It is clear tliat he is an inno- vator, and iti the>e times, when conservatism is so much in deujand, he uju.>.t be held to be dan>;erous. Passing along we find a tall portly man in glossy black, with a bad stoop in the shoulder?, a new stove-pi[)e hat retaining in places the original shim;, a bright red face out of which look brilliant eyes, carry- ing in his right hand, as if it were a mace, a huge gold-heaiied cane — It is Col. Orr. of South Carolina, late Speaker of the House, and now suspected of Douglas inclinations and of a willingness to be either President or Vce President of the United States. He is in the midst of a confi.lenrial talk with a burly, piratical looking person in a gray busi- ness suit, the sack coat making him look even more squatty than he really is. The features of this individual are a little on the buH-dog order. He does not look like a man of much intellect, but is evident- ly a marked man — a man of energy and perseverance, of strength and strategy. Ponderous as he is, he moves lightly. Fat as he is, he is restless, and as he smokes his cigar, he consu>nes it with furious inces- sant wh ff-i. Toe black whiskers are sprinkled lightly with fj^ay. It is Young America, otherwise Geo. Sanders. And, so, so, Mr. Orr, we see how the cat is jumping with you. You would have no objections to be second choice of the Douglas men — not a bit. Ytm would be willing to take the Vice Presidency at the hands of the Douglas De- mocracy, wouldn't you? And, so, so, you got up a Convention in South Carolina the other day, Mr. Orr. The Platform was a little too strongly anti-Douglas to suit you, but that could not be helfied. You could not do too much violence to the tiaiiitional leading Southern pro- clivities of South Carolina. You did all you could. Your intentions were towani Donglas, and yourself, if you dared, you wouM, with your So\ii|i Carolina delegation, make common cause with the I)ou<'-las men. iJut you dare not do that. And we leave you, Col. Orr, in the care of Geo Sanders. 11 At tbe Cbarlcpton ITouse we find another atmospliorc. TTcre are the fire-oaters in full force. We tiiii^s the prince of thon, Y.uici'y of Alabaina. II« is not a man to talk coiifiiJcntially in en wil.s. He don't talk politics wiili or like the common herd. He may I e found in the [trivate parlor of the Alabama deh-gition. And then- is I'aik.sdale, the Congies-man of iMi.'-sit^sip|)i, with his hat pulled down ovi-r his riu'ht eye. He has a way of throwing his head on one side and turning up his chin, and talking in a short sharp way, like a N< w Yoik H'hoy. He is thick set, Inoad shouhlered and short-legged. His cyf; is small and fierce. The wliole country knows that he wears a wig — for Potter, of Wisconsin, kiioikid it iff once upon a time. ]Jut as fir a duel, be- ware of meeting Barksdale with bowie-knives! He knows how to han- dle the implement and lias handled it. The fire eateis are talking about principle. A Douj^las man or two have strayed down here, and are trying to explain that Douglas don't really mean any thing by popular soveieignty. "He had to talk that pretty strong to get back to the Senate." The people must be talked to violently about somelliing — might as will say popular sovereignty to them as anything else. " Douglas would leave it all to the Courts at last. The Courts will fix it all ri^ht. Let us drop this immaterial issue and go in fur tliu strong- est niaii — and his name is Stephen A. Douglas." The South listens and commences — " What, and we must throw a bone to the Abolition- ists, must we, eh? We must coniproniise with Abolitionism in oicicr to Carry the North — must we ? We must take up an unsound man, or lose the battle — must we? No, sir. We have had too much of this. It is time the Democratic party took up sound men, and fought on prin- ciple, it is the best policy to fight on principle. Mayor Wood carried New York on principle. Connecticut would have been carried, if it had not been for the taint of Douglasism. Rhode Island victory! There is no such thing. The Sewani Ref)ublicans and Douglas Democrats in lihode I.-land united and beat a John Brown Helperiic. That's the way of it. I tell you we can succeed without Douglas. He is the weakest man out. But if he was strongest, I would not give a damn for a victoiy with him. I want the party destroyed if it is a one-man party. 1 want defeat if we can't have honest victory. No unfriendly legislation shall exclude our property from the Territories. We aiust have our property protected." This is not, by any means, an imaginary conversation. I have heard two to-night that were in substance as 1 have set down here. To complete the rounds to-night, we must go over to King street, and h.'ok in upon the head-quarters of the Administration Senators es- tablished luxuriously there, in a large old-fashioned building, overlook- ing and entered through an ice-cream garden, which, though this I9 Sunday evening, is open to the public, and thionged by visitors. The Administration Senators tell us that they are not at all uneasy on the subject of the nomination of Douglas. They say he cannot possibly get more than one hundred and six votes on the first ballot ; that his strength will never be as great as it was at Cincinnati after Pierce was withdrawn; th9t is, they say, "if there is truth in men." But some- times, and this is one of them, there is not truth in men. Douglas will 12 not, I pro-ume, bo mmiitiated, but be will get more than one hundred and six vutos._ The Adininiistration Senators tell us Douglas is not to be the nomi- nee — cannot get one-half the votes — nothing like it. If these Senators are speaking the truth, then there are lies enough told at the Mills House every day to sink a ship, if each one only weighed but an ounce. And the Senators produce the figures. Douglas will hardly get a vote from a slave State, unless it may be one or two from each of the States of Maryland and Missouri. New York is dead against him. Neither delegation from that State is for him, and the State must vote as an unit. But will it V Senators say yes. And Pennsylvania l Sena- tors say Douglas cannot certainly get a vote from Pennsylvania. The majority of the delegation is for Breckenridge, and it is the Hunter and Guthrie men who are strongest against State unity. But they will all come in — every man — and the State will be an unit against Douglas. It will all be fixed in the morning. And Senators say also that Massa- chusetts is against Douglas — dead and united against him — and Maine evenly divided. New Hampshire is for him, and waiting to have him slaughtered, in order to introduce to the Convention the name of Frank- lin Pierce. Senators are bitter. They are not only against the Presi- dential aspirations of the Senator of Illinois, but they hate him most cordially, and some of them swear vengeance. The full-faced gentleman without a vest, sittinq; on the corner of a . . . . chair, and smoking a fragrant cigar in the contemplative style — the gen- tleman with long brown curling hair, parted in the middle — is Senator Bayard, of Delaware, a distinguished lawyer and a Democratic partisan of long standing. He could do his State some service, by belping her to get rid of slavery, but he is a pro-slavery man. He is a descendant of the illustrious Chevalier Bayard, the knight without fear or reproach. Senator Bayard is a handsome, courtly gentleman, who is personally a goodly man to know. The heavy, closely-shaven gentleman, with yellow vest, open, that its wearer may have the benefit of the breeze — the gentleman leaning against the railing, in his chair, looking like a business man more than a Senator (if we may be allowed such a distinction), is Jesse D. Bright, who has long been the king caucus of Indiana. Mr. Bright's hatred of Duugbis is, perhaps, just now, the strongest passion of his soul. Doug- las voted to exclude him from the Senate, and their relations are those of irreconcilable and deadly hate. It is reported that he swears he will stump Indiana, county by county, against Douglas, if he should be nominated. The rosy gentleman, with the farmer-like aspect, slightly inclined to be just fat enough to be sleek, and whose countenance is so placid that you would not imagine he had ever been crushed by Douglas in debate, or become weak in the knees, and been guilty of wincing at Southern thunder, the gentleman who has just ascended the stairs, and has thrown biinself into a perspiration, and who is alternately nuifiping with his handkerchief and fanning with his bat, is the Hon. "William Bigler, of Pennsylvania. Within, seated at a round talde, on which books, news- papers and writing material is scattered about, is a gentleman with long, 13 tliin white hair, through which the top of his head hlushes like the shell of a boiled lobster. The gentleman has also a cherry-red face, the color being that produced bj good health, and good living joined to a florid teuiperanient. His features are well cut, and the expression is that of a tbouLThtful. hard-working, resolute man of the world. lie is a New Yorker by birth, but has made a princely fortune at the New Orleans bar. He is not a very eloquent man in the Senate, but liis ability is unquestioned ; and it is universally known that he is with the present Administration, the power behind the throne greater than tiie throne itself. Mr. Buchanan is as wax in his fingers. The name of this gen- tleman is John Slidell. His special mission here is to see that Stephen A. Douglas is not nominated for the Presidency. If I am not much mistaken, he just now manipulated a few of the North-eastern men with such marvelous art, that they will presently find they are exceedingly anxious to defeat the nomination of Douglas, and they will believe that they arrived at the conclusions now coming uppermost in their minds in their own way. There has been a great deal more drunkenness here to-day than here- tofore. Most of the violent spreeing is done by roughs from the North- ern x\tlantic cities who are at last making their appearance, 'i'here have been a number of specimens of drunken rowdyism and imbecility about the hotels. And I hear, as I write, a company of brawlers in the street making night hideous. LIST OF DELEGATES TO THE NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC CON- VENTION. [From the Secretarj's Roll.] The following, furnished by the Secretary of the Convention to the Charleston newspapers, is the most correct List of Delegates published. The list cannot be absolutely accurate, for the reason that some of the orio-inally accredited delegates never appeared — and after the first day of the Convention, changes were constantly being made : Thos. Bradbury, Eastport. George F. Stapley, Portland. E. Wilder Finley, Newcastle. Amos M. Roberts, Bangor. S. R. Lyman, Portland. Thomas K. Lane, Saco. S C. Blanchard, Yarmouth. Calvin Record, Auburn. Thomas D. Robiusou, Bath. Henry W. Owen, Bath. Henry A. Wyman, Snowhegan. Charles D. Jameson, Bangor. J. Withrop Jones, Ellsworth. P. S. J. Talbot, East Machias. J. Y. McCUntock, Belfast. W. H. Burvill, Belfast. John S. Robinson, Bennington. Jasper Rand, Berkshire. Henry Key.s, Newbury. E. M. Brown, Woodstock. Charles G. Eastman, Montpelier. Pitt W. Hyde, Hydeville. H. E. Stouahton, Bellows Falls. Stephen Thomas, West Fairlee. Lucius Robinson, Newport. H. B. Smith, Milton. NEW HAMPSHIRE. Josiah Miuot, Concord. Daniel Marcy, Portsmouth. Robert S. Webster, North Barnstead. George W. Stevens, Dover. Aaron P. Hughes, Nashua. Edward W. Harringtou, iManchester. Alpheus F. Snow, Claremont. Ansel Glover, Alstead. William Burns, Lancaster. George A. Bingham, Bath. MASSACHUSETTS. Caleb Gushing, Newburyport. Jas. G. Whitney, Boston. Oliver Stevens, Boston. Isaac Davis, Worcester. Wm. C N. Swift, New Bedford. Edward Merrill, New Bedford. Phineas W. Lelaud, Fall River. Alex. Lincoln, Hingham. Orison Underwood, Miiford. 14 Bradford L V\'ales, Randolph. James IliUiv. I! 'Sloii. Isaac II VViiu'lit. noston. Cornelius l)<.li. r(y, Uoston. K. S. Chiir.e Eist Cain'-iridge. E. G. Wi.li ims. Newburyport. C. G. Clark. I.yni F. O. Priiico. VViiirhcster. Geo. Johnson, UraUford. Brtij F niit'cr. LowcjU Walter Fes-e kIii!, Townsend. Henry II s-cvihs, Dudley. Geo. VV. Cill. Worcester. C. W (;ha;jin, Springfield. Josiah Allis, VVhatoiy. D. N C^irpoiiter, Crtenfield. Charles llcebuer, Lee. CONNECTICUT. James T I'ratt, Roek Hill. Samuel Ari'JId, Ilndlmi Andrew <.'. I.i pitt, New London. W U. Hisliop. Biidgeport. A. G. Hissnl. Kiptield. M. R. West. »t*!lord. E. Aug RussL-U Middlctown. C M. Ingersol, New Haven. Wm. L. Coiverse. Norwich. Rufus L. Itjker. Windham. James G tllijrner. New Haven. P. C. CalUoua, Uiid Report. KHODE ISLAND. Welconne B. Sayies, Providence. Charles S B .»d.ey, Hrovidciice. George H. IJrow.ie, Providt-nce. John N. Fr.iiieis, I'rovideiice. Edward F. Newlo i. Newport. Ainasa .S triiic Providence. Gideon Braiilord l'rovideiii,e. Jacob Babbit, Bristol. NEW YORK. Dean Rich nond, BafTalo. Augustus .S liell, ^ew York city. Isaac V. I'owler, N w York city. Delos DoWolf Oswego. Wm. 11 Liidli.w, S.iyville. Teuiiis (; lier^ei. Uai^ridge. H. McLan{;;;ii i. Brook yn. Francis II. .spmola. Mrooklyn. John Y Sava.'e. New York city. Win. Miner. New Vork i ily. Samuel L M, !! nloiv. New York city. John i;iaii.'iller I'udson. Henry Slaals, Red II. mk. David L ■-(■ inoer. Troy. MoHcs W.ineri, 'I'riiv. EniKtut Ciin.iiu'. A hany. Peter Ca 'L-er. A I any John TilciMiib. Wiiierf.ird CharloK it In.-.ill^ Grcnwieh. Lomuol Stel-.oii i'Ultbbuii;h. Henry A. Tilden, New Lebanon. .lames C. .Spencer, Ogdensburf. Lorenzo Cairyl, Sails lury. Alonzo C. Paige, .Schenectady. David Spraker. Oanajoharie. Samuel North. Uiiadilla Alevaiid. r H. Burhans, Roxbury. John S'ryker. Rome. D. P Bis.-.el, Utica. Henry S. Randall. Cortlandvillo. John F Hubbard, jr., Norwich. Willard Johnson, Fulton. Sidney T. Fairchild. Cazenovia. D. C. West Lowville Allen C. Bec;< h, Watertown. James P. Haskin Syracuse. John J. Peck, Syracuse Elmore P. Ross, Auburn. John N. Kiiapp, Aunurn. Wm. W. Wrisht. Geneva. Darius A. O^den, Peiin Yan. Henry D. Barto, Trumansburgh. Charles Hiilett, Horseheads. C. C. B Walker, Corning. A. J. Abbott, Genesee. S. B. .fewett, Clarkson. B. F. Gilkeson, Rochester. Marshall B Champ ain, Cuba. Heiiiy J. Glowacki, Batavia. Sa.iford E Church, Albion. A. H Easinian, Lockport. John T. Hudson, BulFalo. Alpheus t'niice, Clatence. Jo, in »' Devereux. EUicottville. H. J. Miner, Dunkirk. NEW JERSEY. William Wright, Newark. Benjamin Williamson, Elizabeth. Jaaies W. Wall (absent), Burliii(ton- Joim C RafTcrty. New Germault,wn. Samuel Hanna, Camden. Joh'i L. Sharp, Miliville. Georye F. Fort. New E^ypt. David Naar, Trenton Albeit R. Speer, New Brunswick. Joshua Doughty, Somerville. Riibert Ilamiiton, Newlon. John Uu' ler, Hackensaek Saniunl Westcott, Jersey city, Jacob Vau Arsdale, Newark. DELAWARE. John H. Beverley, Smyrna. William H Ross Sealord. James A. Bavard Wilmington. John B Pi;nniiigtoii, Pover. William G Wliiiely, Newcastle. William Saulsbury, Georgetown. MARYLAND. John Contee, Bucna Vista. William T. Hiiuiitoii, Ilugerstowrn. Levin Wnolio.d, I'riiuos Ann. John R Ell o y. Otitreviile. Wm. S tiitiiiit.'3, Baltimore city. Samuel S Maflit. lOlkton. Carville S St msbury, Stemncr's Run. Wm. Byrne, Baltimore city E L. F. Hardiastle, Ro\ai Oak. Daiiel Field, Fed ralsliuig. Robert J Brent. Baltimoie city. T M Linahan, B.i.tin.ore i ily. -t- Brad ey .]. Johnson. Frederick city. John J. Morrison. Barton. O'^rar Miles. Viie'ter. George Booker. Hamplon. M. W Fisher, EastviUe. Wm. A Bi.ekner. Uowling Green. Henry T Gan.el t. Oak Grove. Jiimes Barbour. Brandy Station. John Seddon, Fiedericksburg. John Dlair Hose, Maitinsburg. 0. R. Funsten, While Post. S. M. Yost, Stan itou. S. H. Mollatt, Harrisonburg. Daniel If Ho e. Bl:icksburg. James W. Davis, Greenville Court House. Robert L. Crockett, Wythefille. William T. Cecil, Tazewell Court House. Henry Fiizhugh. Kanawha Court House. John Braniiou, Wosl(m. William G. Brown, Kingwood. Charlts W. Russell, Wheeling. NORTH CAROLINA. William W. Avery, Morgantown. William S. A.-he, v\ilmingtou. Bedford Brown, Locust Hill. William H Holdeii Raleigh. Williim A Moore, Edenton. Nicholas M. Long, VVeldon. Robert R. Bridytr.s, 'I'aiboro'. Lotte W. Hutnpnrey, Richland. Walter L. Steele, Rockingham. James Fulton, Wilmington. Thomas S Green. VVarrenton. J. W B. Watson, Sii.iihfield. Robert !'. D'.ck, Greensboro'. Charles S. U instead, Roxboro'. Samuel Ilar^'rave, Lexington. Hampton B. Ilanmiond, Wadesboro'. Willia.ri Lundeis. Lincolnton. Columlms .Mill.s, Columbus. Henry T. Fanner, Flat Rock. SOUTH CAROLINA. James Simons, Charleston. Samuel .MctJowan A'lbeville Court House. H. B. Wilson, Geo getovvn. R. B. Boylston, Wmnsboro'. J H Witherspoon La-icaster Court House E. W. Charles, Darlington Court House. George N. Reynolds, Charleston. Thoma-- Y Yimous. Chaileston. James Patterson, Barnwell Court House. B. H Brown, Barnwell Court House. Arthur S m|)kiiis. E igefield Court House. Lemuil B J zer Leviigtou Court House. B. F. Periy. Greenville. J. P. Rcid A iderson Court House. John S Pre ton Columbia. Franklin GaiUard, Columbia. GEORGIA. Henry L. B'inning. Columbus. John H Lumpkin. Rome. Isaiah T irvvi i, VVasiiiiigton. Henry R JicUson .Savannah. Junius Wjajri'.ld Eilo itoa. ULain VVaiuer, Gicenville. Solomon Cohen, Savannah. James L Seward, Thornasvillo. Julian llartridge. Savannah. W B. Gaulden, Huntsville. W. J. Johnson, Fort liaiiies. John A. Jones, Columbus. James M. Clark, Lumpkin. W M. Slaughter. Albany. E. L. Stroccker, Macon. P. Tracy, Macon. O. C. Gibson, Griilin. E J. McGehee. Perry. James J. Diamond Stone Mountain. J. A Render, Greenvi le. Samuel C. Chaedlor, CarroUton. G J Fain, Calhoun E. R. H.irdm, Dalton. James Hoge, Atlanta. Mark Johnston, (;aitersville. William 11. Hull, Athens. George Uillyer. Monroe. A A Franklin Hill. Aihens. Henry P. Thomas, Lawrenceville. L H. Brisco, \lilledi;eville. Jell' Lamar, Covin. ton, J. W. Burney, Monticello. James Thomas, Sparta. ' L. A iN'elms, D. C. Barrow, Lexington. II Cleveland, Augusta. H. R. Casey. App.L.g. FLORIDA. T. J. Krpes, Apalachicola. John .Nil It on, Mariinna. B. F. Wardlaw, Madison Court House. C E. Dyke. Ta laha.>isee. George L. Bowne, Key West. James B. Owens, Ocala. ALABAMA. F. S. Lyon, Demopolis. A B. Meek Mobile. D. W. Bayiie, Havneville. W. L. Yancey, Montgoniery. L. A Laiifler, Talladega. J. A. Winston, ^lobl.e. L P. Walker, Huntsville. H. D. Smiih, uraveley Springs G. G. Gnllin, Demopoiis N. H. R. Dawson Selma. R. G. Scott, Claiborne. J W. p.irter, NeggsviUs. L. L. Cato, Enfala. T. J. Burnett, Greenville. J. R, Breare, Newton. M. J Bulger, DadeviUe. P. O. liar, er. West Point. J, C. B. Mitchell Mount Meigs. W. C Vldver, Tuskeegee. John Erwin, Gruensborough. W. M Brooks, Maiion. J. C Guild I'uscaloosa. A. W. Dlliard, Livingston. F (i Norman, Tuscumi ia. R. M Patton, FJorcn c. W. C. Slierrod i:ouitlai d. R. Chapman, Hunisvil :e. G. C. Bradley, llanisviUe. T. B Cooper, < entre. A. J. Henry. Guntcrsville. T J. Bradford, Talladega. W Ganett, Bradlord. P. G. King, Moiitevallo. MISSISSIPPI. W. S Barry, Columbm. Chirles i;rarke, Prentiss. E. BarKsda.e, Jackson. 16 W. S. Wilson, Port Gibson. James Urane, lianliston. Beverly M.itthuws, Columbus. P. M. Thomson, Houston. \V. II 11. Ti.sou Carroll ville. Joseph R. Davis, Canton. C. E. Hooker, Jackson, J. T. Sims, Delta. D. C. Glenn, Mississippi city. Geo. H. Gordon, Woodville. ARKANSAS. J. p. Johnson, Laconia. T. B. Flournoy, Laconia. N. Burrows, Van Buren. F. A. Perrj-, W'averly Po.st Office. Jno. J. Stiriuan, Dardauelle. Jno. A Jordan, South Iteud. Van U. Manning, Hamburg. K. \Y. Uoudley, Little Kock. KENTUCKY. (i. A. Caldwell, Loui.'ville. U. P. White, tirceusburg. J. C. Mason, Owingsville. R. K. Williaui.-J, .Ma.yiield. Wni. Bradley, Madisonville- G. II. Morrow, Paducah. Lafayette (ireen, Fall.'; of Rough. S. B. Greenfield, llopkinsville. (i. T. Wood, Munfordsvilltj, J. A. Pinn, Pranklin. S. B. Field, (.'olumbia. John S. Kindriek, Somersett. R. Spalding, Lebanon. W. B. Read, Hodgesville. John Dishnian, liarbourville. Colbert Cecil, Fiketon. Wm. Garvin, Loui.-iville. .'^. E. Dchaven, LaG range. R. M. John.-;on, White Sulphur. J. B. Beck, Lexington N. Green, New Liberty. R. McKee, Louisville. H. D. Helm. Newport. R. P. Butler. Carrolton. TEN'NE83EK. Andrew Ewing, Na.shville John R. Howard, Lebanon. J. D. ('. Atkins, Paris. Samuel Milligan, (ireenTille \\'m. Ilunry .Maxwell, Jonesboro'. .John D. Kiley, Rogersville. Thonia« M. Lyon, Knoxville. W. K. B. Jone.-i. Livingston.! <;eorge \V. Rowlcs, Cleveland. William AVall;u-e, Maryvillc. David Bunford, Dixon Springs. James M. Sheid, Manchester. John McGavock, Franklin. Jamci M. Avcnt, Murfreesboro'. Robert Matthews, Shelbyville. \\ . L McClelland, Lewi.«burg. Thomas W. Jones, Pula-ski. U . C. Whittliorne. Columbia. Alfred Robb, Clarksvillc. Thomfifl Meuecs, Springfield. Wm. H. Wall, Paris. James < on nor, Ripley. Will. H. Carrol, Memphis. .Samuel McClonahan, Jackson. MISBOnRI. J. It. Henderson, l/ouisiana. W. J W. MclMiany, St. Charles. K F. lAkf-maii, ilnnnibal. G A. Sliorlri'lge, lUooiuington. John I». Clark, WaxUln^ton City, D. C. Austin A. King, Richmond. George P. Dorris, Platte city. James Craig, St. Joseph. Wm. Douglass, Boonville. N. C. Claiborne, Kan.sas city. P. S. Wilkes Springfield. J. A. Scott, Elk Mills. C. G. Corwin, Jefferson city. J. ¥. Men.se, Washington, Franklin county. A. Hunter, Benton. John O'Fallon, jr.. Sulphur Springs. John M. Krum, St Louis. Sam. B. Churchill, St. Louis. A. C. Dodge, Burlington. B. M. Samuels, Dubuque. D. 0. Finch, Des Moines. Wm. H. Merritt, Cedar l{apids. T. W. (^laggett, Keokuk. J. W. Bosler, Sioux City. E. U Thayer, Mu.scatine. W. U. M. Pusey, Council Bluffs. WISCONSIN. John R. Sharpstein, Milwaukee. Alex. S Palmer, Geneva. Alex. F. Pratt, Waukesha. Wm. A. Barstow, Jauesville. James H. Earnest, Shulsburgh. Oiarlea Whipple, Eau Claire. Perry H. Smith, Appleton. Frederick W. Horn, Cedarburg. Edward S. Bragg, bond Du Lao. John Fitzgerald, Oshkosh . MINKESOTA. W. A. Gormans, St. Paul. George L. Becker, St. Paul. Ileniy H Sibly, Mendota. A. J. Edgertou, Mantorville. A. M. Fridlcy, St. Anthony. J. Travis Hostler, Maukato. W. W. Phelps, Red Wing. S. S. Marshall, McLeansboro'. 0. B. FicUlin. Charleston. W. A. Richardson, Quincy. R. T. Merrick, Chicago. Wm M. Jackson, Union. John D. Piatt, Warren. John B. Turner, Chicago. A. M. Ilerrington, Geneva. Allen \Vithers. Bloomington. R. E. Goodell, .loliet. B. S. Prettyman, Pekin. R. HoUoway, Monmouth. W. H. RoUoson, Dallas city. James M. Campbell, Macomb. Murry Mc(JonneU, Jacksonville. IVm. F. Thornton, Shelbyville. Aaron Shaw, Lawreuceville. W. F. Linder, Chicago. S. A. Buckmaster, Alton. Z. Casey, Mount Vernon. W. J. Allen, Marion. M . H. Green, Metropolis. OHIO. Geo. ^V. McCook, Steubenville. Geo. E. Pugh, ( incinnati. D. P. Rhodes, (Cleveland. \^ashington McLean, Cincinnati. Henry B. Bowman, Cincinnati. Charles Rule. Cincinnati. Wesley M. Cameron, Cincinnati. William T. Forrest, Cincinnati. A.. P. Miller, Hamilton. 17 George W. Tlouk, Dayton. Sabirt Soolt, St. Mary's. Josbua TownseiiJ, Greenville. James U. S'eedman, Toledo. Wui. Mungen, Findlay. J. B. Cockerill, West Uaioa. T. C. Kennedy, Batavia. Durbin iN ard, Lebanon. W. M. SUrk, Xeiiia. George Speiice, Springfield. R. E. Itunkle, West Liberty. Edward F. Dickinson, Fremont. Abner il. Jackson, Bucyrus. Thoma.s McNalley, Chilicothe. Wells A. Ilutchius, Portsmouth. Lot L. Smich, Athens. E. F. Bingham, McArthur. Wayne Griswold, Circleville. Geo. B. Smith, Newark. Thomas W Bartley, Mansfield. John Tiffr, Norwalk. J. A. Marchand, Wooster. J. P. Jeffries, Woo.ster. J. G Stewart, < Coshocton. R. H. Nugen, Newcomerstown. S. R. Hosuier, Zanesville. W. \V. Coues, (lincinnati. J. S. Way, Woodsfield. W. Eaton, Morristown. 8. Lahm, Canton. S. D Harris, jr., Ravenna. H. B. Payne, Cleveland. J. W. Gray, Cleveland. David Tod, Brier Hill. D. B. Woods, Warren. Thomsis S. Woods, New Lisbon. B. F. Potts, Carrollton. INDIANA. E. M Hunfington, Terre IIaut«. S. H Buskirk Bloomington. Robert Lowry, Gc^hen James B Foley, Greensburgh. John S. Gavitt, Kvansville. Smith Miller. Patoka J. B Norman, New Albany. S. K. Wolfe, Corydon. P. Dunning, Bloomington. H. W. Harrington, Madison. J. V Bemusdaffer, Greensburgh. John Anderegg, Lawrenceburgh. Lafe Devlin, Cambridge i ity. Edmund Johnson, Newcastle. W. H. Talbot, Indianapolis. J M Gregg, Danville. E Read, Terre Haute. H K. Wilson, Sullivan. L B. Stockton, Lafayette- Isaac C. Ellston. CrawfordsTllle. G. Hathaway, Lap rte. 8. A. Hall, Logansport. P. Hoagland, Fort Wayne. G. AV. Mc'Connell, Angola. Wm Garver, Noblesville. John R. luflroth, Huntington. I.00I8IANA. E. LiiSere. Now Orleans, E. Lawrence, New Orleans. F. H Hatch, New Orleans. A. Talbot. Iberville R. A. Hunter, Alexandria. Richard Taylor. St. Charles Parish. D D Withers, New Orleans John TarUon, Bayou Bueff, St. Mary's Parish. Charles Jones, Trinity. B W. Pearce, Sparta, Bienville Parish.] A Mouton, Vermilionville. James A llcHatton, Baton Rouge. TEXAS. H. R. Runnels, Boston. E Greer, Marshall. Thos P. Ochiltree, Marshall. M. W Covey, Jefferson. JF. R Lubbock, Houston. Guy M Bryan, Galveston. Josiah F Crosby, Kl Paso. F. S Stockdale, Port Lavaca. MICHIGAN. George V. N. Lothrop, Detroit. Charles E. Stuart, Kalamazoo. H H. Riley. Constanline. George \\'. Perk, Lnnsing. Beoj. Follctt, Ypsilanti. Fidus Livermore. Jackson. John G. Parkhurst, Coldwater. Philo Wilson, < anandaigua. Franklin Muzzy, Niles. Alex F. Bell, Detroit. Augustus C Baldwin, Pontiac. William S. Bancroft, Port Huron. OREGON. Lansing Stout, Washington, D. C. J. R l^merii'k, .'acKsonville. Isaac ■J Stevens, Washington, D. 0. Justus Steinberger, Washington, D. 0. R. B Metcalfe, Independence, Texas. A P. Dennison, The Dalles, Oregon. CALIFORNIA. J. Bidwell, Chico G. W. Patrick, .■^ooora. Lewis R Bradley. Stockton. Austin E Smith, San Francisco. John A. Dreibellis, Shasta. John S Dudley, Yreka John Hains, Los Angelos. D. S. Gregory, Monterey. 18 FIRST DAY. The opening Scenes— The Actors in the First Fight— John Cochrane — William A, Richardson— E. Barksdale— Walker of Alabama- dark oj Missouri — Butler of Massachusetts. Institute Haix, ) Cliarleston, S. C, April 23d. \ The hour appointed for the meeting of the Convention was at twelve, M. About eleven a deliglitful shower came up, which was quite wel- come, for the country has been suffering excessively from drouth, and the air was full of the hot dust of the streets. Orders were issued that the doors should not be opened until twelve o'clock. That hour has passed. The reporters are at their places, with piles of paper and bunches of pencils sharpened at both ends. A boy is waiting, ready to run to the telegraph office with dispatches. The delegates are pour- ing in and finding their places. About a dozen ladies occupy seats in the gallery, looking down with critical interest on the seething mass be- low. One-third of the space in the galleries is allotted to the ladies, and the remaining two-thirds to the outsiders, whose occupation is the manufacture of public opinion. Each delegation has a certain number of tickets for distribution among outsiders. They admit the holders in- to the gallery. The hall is far more spacious, better ventilated, and better arranged than that in which the Convention was held four years ago. The delegates are in groups all over the floor, talking and gestic- ulating as in all other conventions. The scene is very much like that in the Hall of the House of Representatives on the opening day of a session of Congress. The men who, by their position upon the Execu- tive committee appointed at Cincinnati, have to initiate proceedings, are Judge Smalley, of Vermont, Chairman, and C. L. Vallandigham, Sec- retary. Judge Smalley arises and calls the Convention to order. He states the business of the Convention with the utmost simplicity, omit- ting, as was agreeable to every body, the opportunity afforded of mak- ing an " able and eloquent" speech. He calls for the nomination of a President, pro tern. Mr. Flournoy of Arkansas was nominated by McCook of Ohio. There was no opposition. A committee was ap- pointed to escort him to the chair. He stated upon assuming the chair that he should exert himself to produce a speedy organization of that body. As an earnest of his intention to proceed to business, he sat down. Thus two opportunities to make speeches were irrevocably lost. Mr. Flournoy is a gentleman at least six feet two inches in height, and would weigh two hundred and thirty pounds. He is a splendid speci- men of physical manhood, but is not troubled with too much brain. The next thing in order is a written sermon in the form of a prayer. Some {)ortly, wliitc-headed, red-faced and gold-spectacled parson, from tlie South, being called upon for a prayer, proceeds to recite one which he has written down and pasted in the cover of a book for the occasion. There are not ten men in the hou.se who can hear what he says — and the fine, old, fat clergyman is pronounced an unmitigated bore. His solemn tone is worse than a stump speech would have been from the 19 rostrum. In case of the speech we might have had a few rahlilo-rous- ing sentences. As it is we have only a noise that is in the usuiil into- nation of prayer. A Virginia delegate arises and makes a n(jiiiina- tion of temporary secretary. It already appears that the hall is one in which it will be almost im- possible to hear what is said. The street in front of the hall is paved with bowlders (Cincinnati fashion), and the incessant clatter of the wheels is deafening. Mr. Fisher of Virginia tried to intrQduce a resolution, and to read before introducing that resolution. It was well understood that this was a resolution respecting the contested seats of New York. John Cochrane rose to a point of order. An Alabamian and a Mississippian pitched in. Fisher of Virginia appealed from the decision of the chair, who had ruled him out of order. The chair was sustain* d by a roaring aye. Another struggle took place as to which should be appointed first : the committee on Credentials or on Organization. The object of the ultra Southerners was to exclude Illinois and New York from the committee on Credentials and Organization. Richardson of Illinois, and Cochrane of New York, disclaimed any desire to participate in the committee on Credentials. They were not disposed, however, to give up their places in the committee on Organization. In the course of the struggle on this point, it became evident that the weight of the outsid- ers was for the Douglas delegation from Illinois, and the Cassidy, Rich- mond, Cagger, John Cochrane and Co. delegation from New York. At last the Convention came to a vote on a proposition that the conmiit- tees on Credentials and Organization should be simultaneously appoint- ed, the committeemen on Credentials from Illinois and New York not having authority to vote on the contested cases of their own States. The vote was taken by States. The proposition was affirmed, Virginia, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi, and half of Cali- fornia, voting no. Mr. Fisher of Virginia protested in behalf of his State against the record, because the vote of New York, the delegates' seats being contested, h;id been taken. A resolution was offered by a Mississippian, that the New York and Illinois delegations be requested not to take part in the proceedings until the committee on Credentials had reported, and the contests had been settled. Payne of Ohio moved to lay this resolution on the table. A vote was taken by States on Payne's motion, and it prevailed by a heavy majority. This is a vote which indicates that the Fernando Wood and Cook delegations will have to remain outside the Convention. Richardson of Illinois pronounced the contest in his State, the most frivolous and contemptible ever heard of. The committees were appointed, and the Convention adjourned. The noise of wheels on the streets was so great, that saw- dust is to be heaped in front of the hall, to deaden the clamor. The ultra-South was guilty of a very foolish thing to-day. They made a bitter fight on a question, when there was no possible chance of doing any thing. The Convention was against them six to one, and yet they struggled with as much energy as if they expected to accomplish some- thing wonderful. In this way they lost prestige in the Convcntion. They threw themselves away without sufficient cause. If they continue 20 this style (if performance Douglas will be the nominee at last. I con- sider his cliMnces augmented by the proceedings to-day. The Ike Cook and Foniando Wood movement was in the preliminary stages utterly overthrown. Several of the scenes of the fight were highly entertain- ing. Mr. Fisher, of Virginia, was picked out to make the onslaught. He is a slight gentleman, with a thin face and high, bald head, small voice on a high key, and more zeal than discretion. He was about to bave a communication read, which every body knew was in reference to the New York contest, when a point of order was raised upon him by John Cochrane, of New York, who is the brains of the Cagger-Cassidy delegation, a man of high order of ability, an accomplished and forcible publi.; speaker, an old bachelor, and a man of the world. He is perfectly at home in a parliamentary. fight, and has a splendid voice, which in a noisy convention is a gift, when coupled with brass, of the highest value. Cochrane is a large but not a big man, full in the region of the vest, wears all his beard, which is coarse and sandy, trimmed short, and is bald — a blemish which he attempts to conceal by combing the hair that remains at the sides over the barren region. Ilis countenance is bold, but not amiable, and there are assurances in his complexion that he is what is known as a generous liver. In fact, he looks as though it would require a very strong cup of coffee to bring him into condition in the morning. He is a fair type of the fast man of intellect and culture, of the city of New York, whose ambition is to figure in politics. He is in Congress, as most of our readers know, and can command the ear of the House at any time. His great trouble is his Free Soil Keeord. He had a very violent attack of Free Soil opinions some years ago. He took Free Soilism like a distemper, and mounted the Buffalo platform. He is well over it now, however, with the exception of a single heresy : that of the Homestead law. He is for giving homesteads to the actual settlers upon the public land. He appeared to much advantage in the Convention to-day, and his sonorous voice, imposing manner and parlia- mentary tactics told with great force. llichardson of Illinois made one of his earnest-toned speeches, vin- dicating the Douglas delegation from Illinois. The Douglas men would not know what to do without him. From appearances, though there are several gentlemen ambitious to lead the Douglas forces in this war, Richard.sed his willingness to enter into the marriage relation. Walker said that it was apparent that the reason why Cochrane l^d not married was becaus^e he could not. He moved to lay the New Yoik bachelor on the table. The Chair tol- erated this nonsense for some time, but at last interposed, and summarily shut down upon it. Mr. Vallandigham made an explanation of the action of the Executive committee reurardino; the is-ue of tickets, which was satisfactory. 'Bhe Convention then refused to throw open the doors to the miscellaneous public. There was now no business before the Convention, the committee on Credentiali^ot being able to report — the Convention adjourned to four o'clock, when the New York fight will come off. It will be warm, and loud and long. A considerable majority of the Convention will be ia favor of excluding the Fernando Wood and Ike Cook delegations. The Convention is most fortunate in having so excellent a prei>iding officer as Caleb Cushing. Mr. Cushing's head is wonderfully clear, and his knowledge of parliamentuary law — and the rules of the House of Reprcffcntatives — perfect. All his staten.ents of the questions that are beiore the hiiu?e, are distinct and downright, and no one thinks, as yet, of taking an appeal from his decisions. This will help the Con- vention materiully in its great tribulation. More ii!t(jnse interest than has' yet prevailed is felt in the forthcoming New York fight. This wdl cont-ume the afternoon session, and to-mor- row we will have the platform fight, and I do not see how it will be possible to prevent a disruption of the Convention. The South makes it a point of honor that the platform shall not be one capable of*a double construction, but shall be one which cannot be fairly interpreted to mean any thing short of " sound Southern doctrine," that is, the protection of slave property in the Territories, and the unequivocal repudiation of the Douglas doctrine of squatter, or popular sovereignty. Tht; Norf-hern delegates don't care much about the honor of the matter. It is of the most grave consequence to lln'iii, involving, as I have before said, for them, ihe is.>ues of life and deah. Their [Kilitical existence depends ab.soltely upon tluir ability to construe the platform adopted here to mean " popular sovereignty," in other words, upon such a form of words in the platform, as will allow them to declare, in the North, that the officially expressed Dcmociatic doctrine is that the people of the Terri- as tories may, while in their territorial condition, abolish or exclude slavery. They cannot, dare not yield the opportunity fur pressing this pretext. The South will not allow it. Here, then, is the " nrepressihle conflict" — a C(niti:ct between enduring forces. You may witli propriety use, re- specting it, language as strong as that of Mr. Seward in liis Rochester speech. The Douglas Democracy, you know, only want the pretext to use before the people. They are willing to acquiesce in the decision of the Supreme Court, knowing beforehand that the decision would be against them. The South stands upon what they believe to be princi- ple, and they cannot in honor, as they say, allow the Nortliern branch of the party to yield so far to the Abohtion pressure, as to take relume from it under a false and fraudulent {)retense. The preponderant faction of the Northern Democracy say the South- ern doctrine of protection of slave property in the Territories is " inad- missible " — that is the word — and 1 believe they have, when the pinch comes, a miijority of the Convention. The^outh says a platform with two faces is no longer tolerable. And the South has in this position a majority of the States. There is a majority in the committee on Plat- form in favor of amending the Cincinnati Platform so as to repudiate its Northern interpretation. The States of Pennsylvania, Oregon and California, as hei*e represented, are with the South in this matter. The inevitable consequence is, there will be two reports from the committee on Platform. The majority report, favored by a minority of the Con- vention — and the minority report, favored by the majority. *Upon the adoption of the Cincinnati Platform, with its " popular soverei"-nty heresy" understood to be attached, and constituting its vitality, the South must withdraw. At least half a dozen States will certainly go, and how many more, and how many fragments of others, it is impossi- ble to say. Then the majority Convention will nominate Douglas. The South will be sustained in its secession by the whole power of the Ad- ministration, and by the Southern Senators, who would be murdered, politically, by the nomination of Douglas in a full Convention, upon a platform on wbich it would be possible for him to stand. When it was determined yesterday, as it was by an overwhelming vote, to adopt a platform before nominating a candidate, it appeared that there was no hope remaining of the unity of the Convention. Both factions voted to have the platform first. The only possible way to keep the Convention together from the start, was for the Douglas men to withdraw his name ; and then the South, with another man, would have been willing to mitigate the asperities of the slave code platform. The disruption of this Convention insures the nomination of S^wird at Chicago — but not his election. Southern secession here, would give Douglas strength in some of the Northern States. There would be no possibility of his election, however, for he would certainly lose sev- eral Southern States. He might, and the chances are that he would, carry Northern States enough to defeat the election of Seward. Thus the election would be thrown into Congress — md eventually into the Senate. This is beyond question the game of the Southern men, and it looks as if the chances were that it would win. Tliese are not, only my opinions and speculations here to-day, but they are such as are cur- 3 ,. 34 rent among those wh© are candid witb themselves and frank in giving expression to their views. AFTERNOON SESSION. After some immaterial controversy, Judge Krura of Missouri, chairman of the committee on Creden- tials, presented the following report and resolutions, upon which the committee bad agreed, and he claimed for it the attention of the Con- vention : MAJORITY REPORT. To the National Democratic Conventiwi : Mu. Presiuent : — Your committee on Credentials, immediately after their aj)- pointment, entered upon the discharge of the duties assigned them, and carefully examined the credentials of the several delegates to this Convention. Your committee tind that ^11 the States of the Union, except the States of Massachusetts. Maryland, Illinois and New York are represented in this Conven- tion by delegates duly elected in the several States by State or District organi- zations of the Democratic party, and your committee append to this report, as a part thereof, full lists of the delegates so selected. Your committee further report that there were contesting claimants to the seats held by the delegations in the following cases, viz : In the Fifth Congressional District of Massachusetts. In the Fourth Congressional District of Maryland. In the State of Illinois, and — In the S^te of New York. The contestants in these several cases had a full and impartial hearing before your committee, and, after a full consideration of their respective claims, your committee are of opinion that the sitting delegates in these Districts and States are justly entitled to their respective seats. All of which is respectfully submitted, JOHN M. KRUM, Chairman. Resolved, That the sitting delegates to this Convention from the State of Illi- nois, of whom Col. W. A. Richardson is chairman, ar^ entitled to their respec- tive seats. Resolved, That Cornelius Doherty and K. S. Chappec, delegates representing the Fifth Congressional District of Massachusetts, are entitled to their respec- tive seals. • Resolved, That F. M. Landham and Robert J. Brent, delegates representing the Fourth Congressional District of Maryland, are entitled (to their respective scats. Resolved, That the delegates to this Conventioa»from the State of New York, of which Dean Richmond is chairman, are entitled as ^ch to seats therein. Adopted. Mr. J3rooks, of Alabama, presented the following Minority Report and llesolutions : MINORITY REPORT. To the Honorable President of the Naiional Demmratic Convention : The undersigned, members of the committee on Credentials, under an impe- rious sense of duty, are constikined to dissent from the report of the majority of this committee, and respectfully recommend that the two delegations from the State of New York be authorized to select each thirtv-tive delegates, and that the Hovt-nty Delegates thus selected be admitted to this Convention as the dele- gates of the New York Democracy, and that they be allowed two hours to re- port their selection— the two delegates to vote separately, each to be entitled to •u 35 seventeen votes, the remaining vote of said State to be cast alternately by the two delegations, the sitting members casting it tlie fust time. (Signed) WILLIAM M. BROOKS, Delegate from Alabama. JOHN S. DUDLEY, Delegate from California. E. GREEN, Delegate from Texas. VAN H. MANNING, Delegate li'om Arkansas. JULIAN HARTRID(;E, Delegate from Georgia. W. S. BARRY, of Mississippi. Mr. Brooks of Alabama offered the following resolution : Reifolved, That the two delegations from New Y'ork be authorized to select each thirty-five delegates, and that the seventy Delegates thus selected, be ad- mitted to this Convention as delegates from the New York Democracy, and that they be allowed two hours to report their selection. The two delegations to vote separately, each to be entitled to seventeen votes, the remaining vote to be cast alternately by the two delegations — the sitting members to cast it the first time. A discussion followed in which New York politics were well ven- tilated. Then the several resolutions reported by the majority were adopted, down to the resolution on the New York case. The question then being on the amendment of Mr. Brooks of Ala- bama, the State of Alabama called for the vote by States, and the State of Mississippi seconded the call. The amendment was lost by the following vote : Slates. Yeas. Maine New Hampshire Vermont Massachusetts Rhode Island Connecticut New Y'ork New Jersey Pennsylvania Delaware Maryland Virginia 3i North Carolina 5 South Carolina Georgia 10 Florida AlaViaraa 9 Louisiana The question then recurring on the adoption of the resolution of the majority, the same was adopted by a large majority. The entire report of the committee was then adopted. Mr. North of Pennsylvania moved to reconsider the motion to adopt the report, and to lay that motion on the table. Agreed to. Mr. North of Pennsylvania then moved that tha rejected claimants Nays. Slates. Yeas. Nays. S Mississippi 7 5 Texas 4 5 Arkansas , 3 1 13 Missouri 1 8 4 Tennessee 9 3 (.; Kentucky , 12 Ohio 23 1 Indiana , 13 27 Illinois U 3 Michigan 6 8 Wisconsin 5 10 Iowa 4 4 Minnesota 4 8 California 3A i Oregon 3 3 55 210^ 6 v> 36 for seats in this Convention be invited to take honorary seats on this floor. [Cries of "No!" "No!" "No!"] Mr. Lawrence of Louisiana. The gentlemen whose claims have been rejected will not accept such an offer. A Voice. Then let them stay out. The Illinois contest was not alluded to in debate. The Cook dele- gation were kicked out without a dissenting voice. This must be very pleasant to Mr. Buchanan, whose postmaster at Chicago, and especial pet, Mr. Cook is. Poor Cook swears profusely and piteously, and that is the extent of his capacity. The death of the chairman of the Vermont delegation, Hon John S. Robinso:i, was then announced and resolutions of respect passed. The credential controversy being closed, the contest conies on the platform, and then — the disruption ! An explosion is certain to take place, and the only question is as to the extent of the Southern seces- sion. The air is full of rumors, and there is general concurrence in the proposition that it will be impossible for the unity of the Convention to be preserved up to the commencement of the balloting for candidates. I am informed by a delegate from one of the border Southern States, that his delegation will not withdraw when the Southern platform is rejected, and the Northern one with two interpretations is adopted, but will withdraw when Douglas is nominated on the equivocal platform, an event which is certain to follow the secession of the Gulf States, which will take place after the platform fight. Chaulestox, S. C, April 25th (at night). The Convention is now ready for the great business upon which it has come together — that of constructing a platform and nominating a candidate. The committee on Platform is now in session, and in agony no doubt, with the various ambiguous resolutions before it. Tlie case is very simple. There is, to begin with, an irreconcilable difference in the doctrines respecting slavery in the Territories between the Northern and Southern wings of the Democratic party. The platform must be drawn with elaborate ambiguity, and capable of two constructions, or the party must be divided. It is only certain just now, that the understanding this morning that there would be a disruption of the Convention, caused a panic, and that a disposition to compromise and be ambiguous prevails. I hear it asserted on that which seems reliable authority, that Mr. Richardson of Illinois has authority to withdraw the name of Douglas, and Will withdraw it, if there is any thing about the protection of slavery in tlie Territories in the platform. The party must take refuge under false pretenses of doctrine, or go in pieces. The question is: Will the South yield the point of honor, -which they have been insisting upon, so far as to allow the platform to be made ambiguous? If they wdl, the Douglas men are so confident in their ability to nominate Douglas, and in the putency of their war- whoop, that they will probal)ly allow the Cincinnati Platform to be amended by the addition of something equivalent in the estimation of the South to the affirmation of the Dred Scott decision doctrine, with 37 the interpretation put upon the decision by Judge Black, in his pamph- let controversy with Douglas. Douglas men are asserting warmly at the Mills House that they never will yield an inch — never, never. And they want a little Southern sensation on the platform. They want about forty Southern delegates to go out, for that would insure the nomination of Douglas, and help him in the North. Their fear is, that the secession will be uneomfort- ably large. A slight secession of merely the "shred of Gulf States" would be a help; and a great secession, carrying with it the weight of the South, would be ruinous. To-morrow is understood to be the crisis of the Convention. We hear hourly that a crisis involving the fate of the country is at hand. The moi-e I see of this city the more I am impressed with its singu- lar beauties. The most charming spot it contains is the Battery — which is in fact a park situated at the extreme end of the peninsula upon which the city is built. On one side is the harbor, the islands, the shores of the bay, the forts and shipping. On the other is a street of stately edifices, splendid private residences, surrounded by trees. In the pleasant evenings, the people of leisure congregate here ; hundreds of carriages and buggies, full of ladies and gentlemen, whirl along the drives — loving couples, and nurses with babies in their arms or in hand-carriages, and leading or directing groups of children, throng every promenade. At times it seems the whole town must have turned out for a grand reunion, and the sea-breeze comes up with health on its wings. During the session of the Convention there has been a band of music from Boston, used principally in serenading great men at a late hour, and bringing out speeches (" unpremeditated," of course, though the speakers are usually notified beforehand), which has made the battery especially delicious of evenings, by discoursing there the most exquisite music. About dusk the streets leading to the battery are full of people returning from visits to it. The sidewalks are lined as if some street public assemblage, political or religious, had just been dissolved. The delegates that took precaution to have contracts with the hotel keepers, have found themselves badly sold. The North-western dele- gates are taxed at least fifty dollars each extra, in consequence of their contracts. The Kentucky delegation made a contract with the proprie- tor of the Charleston Hotel for parlors and bed-room.^, cujnble of accommodating fifty persons, agreeing to pay two hundred and fifty dol- lars per day, from the fifteenth of April to the end of the Convention. Only twenty persons appeared, and the poor fellows came together and appointed a deputation to wait on the hotel-keeper. He agreed to allow the expiration of the contract ten days from its commencement, and then to board them at the rate of two dollars per day. The twenty gentlemen thereupon shelled out one hundred and twenty- five dollars each, and had their contract canceled. Most of them were men who had plenty of money, but they travailed and groaned in spirit, confessing, however, that they had only themselves to blame. There are accommodations here for three times the number of persons present. 38 FOURTH DAY. Institute ITaix, |^ Charleston, S. C, April 26th. \ The committee on Platform is again in session, and doing its best to make a platform. It adjourned at a late hour last night, without hav- ing ac3omplished the objects of its sessions. A member of the com- mittee informed me that there would in all probability be three reports — an ultra-Southern — a Popular Sovereignty — and a "safe middle ground report," according to the exceedingly moderate and conservative views of our illustrious Administration. The rumors are this morning, that the endeavors to patch up matters will fail entirely. The cohesive power of public plunder, when that plunder is worth one hundred million dollars per year, is tremendous, but the ferment of factions here is such that this power may be over- come. The Convention has to choose between subterfuge and dis- ruption. It is, for the present, the policy of the Douglas men not to excite controversy. They feel so confident of their strength in the Convention, that they are exceedingly anxious to preserve its unity, that they may use it. If they could induce thirty or forty ultra-Southern votes to go out, they might nominate Douglas. They do not provoke discussion. Many speeches are made at night, at the principal hotels, all extreme Southern in character. If a man should undertake to make such a Democratic speech here as is heard from every stump of the North, favoring the exclusion of slavery from the Territories by the people thereof, he would be hooted down as an Abolitionist, and possibly mobbed as an incendiary. Several gentlemen were called out at the Mills House last night. Among them was Burnett, member of Con- gress from Kentucky, who made a fire-eating speech, violently opposing all concessions of principle, all subterfuges, all equivocations, all doubt- ful candidates. The speech was a blow at Douglas, and the reply of his friends who were in the crowd was, "Never mind, when we get to voting we beat them like hell." 0. Jennings Wise made a speech, glorifying the State conservatism of South Carolina, and the memory of the immortal Calhoun, who is referred to here as if he were the patron Saint of the Democracy. Fernando Wood was called out and made a speech, pledging himself in advance to the platform and candidate of the Convention. Wood, though excluded from the Convention, has made a strongly favorable impression here. He is one of the first favorites of the "South Cari- kenee-ans" as they all style themselves. There were several scenes of uproar in front of the hotel. One poor fellow, piteously drunk, made a running sj)ccch for half an hour, during which the crowd roared at him, calling him all sorts of names, telling him to "go to bed," etc., etc. As the Convention assembles there are a dozen rumors about the plat- form, flying. One that there is wonderful harmony — another that there is intense antagonism. The ladies crowd in in greater numbers than ever. "South Caroleena" beauty is well represented. Many of the 39 ladies bave fine features but most of tbem bad complexions. They are splendid in eyes and hair, with fine profiles and bright countenances, but not excellent forms. The ladies are a great feature of the Conven- tion. The delegates are desperately gallant. There i« a general understanding this morning that the crisis has arrived at last. The Convention must speedily become indivisible, or it must separate, and there are many here who sincerely belive that the fate of the country turns on this point. The prayer this morning has the advantage of being heard in the hall. And it is probably as able and fervent as was ever "delivered to a Boston audience." Harmony was especially prayed for, as it is especially needed about these times. The Reverend gentleman said : "Oh, come, Heavenly Father, and with Thy spirit guide and over- rule the deliberations of those now present. Grant unto them that, in harmony and peace, and with a patriotic desire for the preservation of all that is sacred in the institutions of the country, they may come to a true and wise conclusion in their counsels. And not unto us, not unto us; but unto Thee shall be the honor and the glory." The Convention is flooded with resolutions. Mr. Fitzhugh of Vir- ginia introduces the following : Resolved, That the rendition of fugitive slaves and other property by one State to another is a right secured by the laws of nations, recognized by the Colonies and the mother country previous to the Declaration of Independence, by the Courts of Great Britain and by the Supreme Court of the United States, and by the law and Courts of all civilized nations, and a fortiori is the duty of the States of this Confederacy under the Constitution and laws. Resolved, That the refusal of the Governors of the several States to deliver up fugitives from justice and fugitive slaves, is an open and palpable violation of the above natural and international law and the Constitution and laws of the United States, constituting official perjury by such Governors as have evaded or refused to perform this duty, and if persevered in must lead to the severance of the Union. Mr. Hughes of Pennsylvania : Resolved, That while recognizing the doctrine that the General Government has no power to create in, or exclude from, by legislation, any species of prop- erty in any State or Territory, yet we maintain that it is the duty of that Gov- ernment to provide the Courts with ample process and ministerial officers for the protection and enforcement of any existing right, or the correction of any wrong, over which said Government, under the Constitution, has jurisdiction. Mr. Browne of Pennsylvania moved the following : Resoloed. That the citizens of the several States when emigrating into a Federal Territory, retain the right to slave and other property which they take wit^h them , until there is some prohibition by lawful authority ; and that, as declared by the Supreme Ct)urt, Congress cannot interfere with such right in a Territory, nor can a Territorial Le nslature do so, until authorized by the adoption of a State Con- stitution ; and that the attempted exercise of such a function by a Lerri tonal Legislature is unconstitutional, and dangerous to the peace of the L aion. Mr. Walker of Alabama : Resolved, That It Is the duty of the Federal Government, in all its departments within their constitutional sphere, to afford adeqate protection and equal advan- tage to all descriptions of property recognized as such by the laws of any ot the 40 States as well within the Territorits as upon the bigb-beas, and evtry place sub- ject to its exclusive power of legislation. Mr. Wall of Tennesoe offered the following resolutions, being the Platform advocated by tliat State : Be it Resolved. That we hereby reaffirm the principles announced in the Plat- form of the Democratic party, adopted in Convention at Cincinnati, in June, 185(!, and fiiat we hold them to be a true exposition of our doctrines on the sub- jects embraced. Res protection of Territories and States, and of military defense, the General Governmeut has accepted authority under the Constitution. Mr. Craig of Missouri offered the following : Resolved, That the Democratic party are in favor of granting such constitution- al aid as will insure the speedy construction of a railroad connecting the Atlan- tic and Pacific States. Mr. Stout of Oregon offered the following : Resolved, That to preserve the Union, the equality of States must be maintain- ed, and every branch of the Federal Government should exercise all their Con- stitutional powers for the protection of persons and property. Mr. McConnell of Illinois offered the following : Resolved, That the Federal Government has no power to interfere with slavery in the States, or to introduce it or exclude it from the Territories, and has no duty to perform in relation thereto, except to secure the rights of the owner by a return of the fugitive slave, as provided by the Constitution. Mr. Seward of Georgia presented the following : Resolved, That the Constitution of the United States extends to the several States, and to every citizen, the full protection of persons and property in all the States and Territories, and that those rights, as declared and determined by the Courts, under the Constitution, are to be respected and maintained by the Governmeut of the United States; and that James Guthrie of Kentucky be the nominee of the Democratic party for President of the United States, on this platform. 42 Mr. Cessna of Pennsylvania offered the following : Resolved. That the convictions of the Democratic party of the country remain unshaken in tlie wir^doui and justice of an adequate protection of iron, coal, wool, and th(! other i^reat staples of our country, based upon the necessities of a rea- sonable revenue system of the General Government ; and approving of the views of President Buchanan upon tlie subj 'ct of specific duties, we earnestly desire our Representatives in Congress to produce sucli modifications of the existing laws as the unwise legislation of the Republican party in 1837 renders absolutely necessary to the prosper) ty of the great interests of the country. Capt. Rynders wanted protection extended over Monongahela whiskey. All these resolutions were referred to the committee on Platform. Resolutions became ridiculous, and on motion of Mr. Pugh, it was voted that tliey should in future be referred without reading. This was throwing the mantle over the nakedness of the party. Mr. Pugh is a good boy. The committee on Resolutions being still in travail, almost hopeless, the Convention adjourned until -i P. M., having no business before it. The evening session amounted to nothing. There was much talk of " the crisis "^and the Convention adjourned in a hopeless mood. There is but one course for it to pursue and be honest — that is, di- vide. They cannot agree, and every man in the Convention knows they cannot. Cool-headed men here are impressed that the chances in the next campaign are with the Chicago nominee. This thing is in a hopeless jumble. The South has driven the Northern Democracy to ,the wall, and now insists upon protection of slavery in the Territories. In other words, insists upon the political execution of every Northern Democrat, and the total destruction of the Democratic party. The Northern Democracy here are smitten with great terrors, and are wil- ling to do almost any thing for harmony, but bow their necks to the knife of their political opponents. They are unwilling to submit them- selves to assassination or to commit suicide. And the South will not yield a jot of its position as master of the party, nor abate its devotion to constitutional abstractions and the propagandisra of slavery. It is perfectly clear, glaringly apparent here, seen in every face, heard in every voice, and pervades the city like an atmosphere, that the doctrine of the Democratic party must be that of exerting all powers of the Federal Government for the extension of slavery, and the increase of the polit- cal power of the master class of the Southern section. The record of this Convention will prove this fact to a demonstration. The word is just now that the committee will agree upon a platform which will be adopted. Rut the most sagacious of the politicians are uneasj. The sessions of the committee on Resolutions are protracted and exciting. Their labor of splitting hairs is enormous. And they know they must bring in a subterfuge, or throw a bomb-shell. 48 FIFTH DAY Institutk IIai.i,. j Charleston, S. C, April 27th. The crisis which was to have arrived yesterday, was postponed by the failure of the committee on Platform to report The committee, when the Convention came together this morning, was still unprepared. The reports were not made until half-past eleven o'clock, when Mr. Avery of North Carolina presented the following from a majority of the committee on Resolutions : MAJORITY REPORT. Besolved, That the platform adoptfd at Cincinnati be affirmed, with the follow- ing resolutions : 1. Resolved, That the Democracy of the United States hold these cardinal principles on the subject of slavery in the Territories : First, That Congress has no power to abolish slavery in the Territories. Second, That the Territorial Legishxture has no power to abolish slavery in any Territory, nor to prohllnt the introduction of slaves therein, nor any power to exclude slavery therefrom, nor any right to destroy or impair the right of property in slaves by any legislation whatevei". 2. Resolved, That the enactments of State Legislatures to defeat the faithful execution of the Fugitive Slave law are hostile in character, subversive of the Constitution, and revolutionary in their effect. 3. Resolved, That it is the duty of the Federal Government to protect, when necessary, the rights of persons and property on the high-seas, in the Territo- ries, or wherever else its constitutional authority extends. 4. Resolved, That the Democracy of the nation recognize it as the impera- tive duty of this Government to protect the naturalized citizen in all his rights, whether at home or in foreign lands, to the same extent as its native-born citi- zens. . . 5. Resolved, That the National Democracy earnestly recomend the acquisi- tion of the Island of Cuba, at the earliest practicable period. Whereas, that one of the greatest necessities of the age, in a political, com- mercial, postal and military point of view, is a speedy communication between the Pacific and Atlantic coasts : Therefore, be it Resolved, That the National Democratic party do hereby pledge themselves to use every means in their power to secure the passage of some bill for the con- struction of a Pacific Railroad, from the western line of the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean, at the earliest practicable moment. Mr. Avery was instructed, as chairman of the committee, to report this Platform. He was further instructed to say that entire unanimi- ty did not prevail on a portion of the resolutions. The first and third resolutions in relation to slavery in the Territo- ries, and the duty of the General Government to protect the right of person and property, were adopted by a bare majority of the committee. The second resolution, in relation to the Fugitive Slave law, and the fourth resolution, in relation to naturalized citizens, were adopted unan- imously, and the fifth resolution, in relation to the acquisition of puba, was adopted without a division. The last resolution of the series, m reference to the Pacific Railroad, was adopted by a majority vote. Mr. Payne of Ohio submitted the MINORITY REPORT. The undersigned, a minority of the committee on Resolutions, regretting their inability to concur with the report of the majority of your committee, feel con- 44 .strained to sulmiit the f()llo\viiin to the over- whelming tide on which they rode again into power — the tide of the "second sober thought of the people." The Southerners in the hall were thoroughly warmed up by his speech, and applauded with raptur- ous enthusiasm. Several of his points were received 'with outbursts of applause that rung around the hall as if his hearers had been made to sliout and stamp by the simultaneous action of electricity. One of his most effective points was in relation to the Dred Scott decision and tlie plea made by Douglas and others that almost all of it was mere obiter dicta. This plea was disrespectful to the venerable man, who, clothed in the supreme ermine, had made an exposition of constitutional law. which had rolled in silvery cadence from the dark forests of the North to the glittering waters of the Gulf. He distinctly admitted that the South did ask of the Northern De- mocracy an advanced step in vindication of Southern rights ; and Mr. Yancey's hour and a half closed wh.ile he was in the midst of a series of lofty periods, and Mr. Pugh of Ohio sprung to his feet. The speech of Mr Yancey had been the speech of the Convention. Some time before it was concluded the day had expired, and the gas had been lit about the hall. The scene was very brilliant and impressive. The crowded hall, the flashing lights, the deep solicitude felt in every word, the im- portance of the issues pending, all combined to make up a spectacle of extraordinary interest, and something of splendor. Mr. Pugh took the platform in a condition of considerable warmth. There was an effort made to adjourn, but the crowd was eager for the fray, and in-^^isted that Pugh should go on. He did so, thanking God that a bold and honest man from the South had at last spoken, and told the whole truth of the demands of the South. It was now before the Convention and the country, that the South did demand an advanced step fiom the Democratic party. Mr. Pugh read the resolutions of the Alabama Convention four years ago, reported by Mr. Yancey, showing that the delegation of Alabama demanded of the Democracy assembled at Charleston, more than they required of the Democraf^y at Cincinnati, four years ago. His point was weakened, however, by the fact that he did not read all of the Alabama resolutions until forced to do so by the peremptory demands of Yancey and Judge Meek. Mr. Pugh said that his political life was almost over, and so far as he was personally con- cerned, he did not regret it. He then traced the downfiill of the North- ern Democracy, and the causes of that fall, charging the South with it. And now the Northern Democracy were taunted by the South with weakness. And here, it seemed, the Northern Democracy, because they were in the minority, were thrust back and told in effect they must put their hands on their mouths, and their mouths in the dust. " Gentlemen of the South," said Mr. Pugh, -' you mistake us — you 4 60 mistake us — we will not do it." Mr. Pugli was interrupted mj motions to adjiturn, and the Convention took a recess of one hour. At half-|)a.«t nine o'clock in the evening, the Convention again assem- bled, and Mr. Pugh took the platform, in the face of a magnificent audience, and spoke with intense energy and animation, in his best siyle. His first point was against the exercise of doubtful constitutional powers ; and he insisted that the Southern demand for peculiar protec- tion of their peculiar property in the Territories, had no warrant in the Constitution. Mr. Pugh's cffirt is conceded to have been bold and adroit. It had not the silvery music, the grace and poli^h, that distinguished the ora- tion of Mr. Yancey, but it was keen, shrewd and telling. A Washington reporter, who has heard all Mr. Pugh's Senate speeches, says this effort was far superior to the best of them. He spoke of the sacrifice of the Northern Democrats of their political lives, battling for the doctrine of the South, now scornfully repudiated ; and pointed out among the delegates, men who had been Senators and Representatives, and who had fallen in the fight. In conclusion, he stated the Democracy, who were prepared to stand by the old faith, would be sorry to part with their Southern friends, but if the gentle- men from the South could only stay on the terms proposed, they must go. The Democracy of the Noith-west would make itself heard and felt. The Northern Democrats were not children under the pupilage of the South, and to be told to stand here and there, and moved at the beck and bidding of the South. The hall was still, as it was understood that Pugh was the spokesman of Douglas, and that the fate of the Democratic party was in issue. When Mr. Pugh concluded, Mr. John Cochrane pressed a motion to have a place assigned for his amendment to the majority report. After some discussion, it was ruled out of order. Mr. Bishop of Connecticut now said he thought nothing new could be said of the dissentions of the Democratic party, if the Convention remained in session and debated all summer. All these questions had been discussed time and again, and the minds of gentlemen made up, he therefore demanded the previous question. In an instant the house was in an uproar — a hundred delegates upon the floor, and upon chairs, screaming like panthers, and gesticulating like monkeys. The President, for the first time, completely lost con- trol over the Convention; not a word was audible. The reporters climbed upon their tables, the delegates mounted the chairs, the people in the galleries stretched their necks and hung over the balustrade, and literally, as was said of a scene in the House of Representatives, "you would see the Speaker's hammer going, but could not hear it." The chair singled out a red-haired member from Missouri, who was standing on a front seat, and shaking his gory locks, and trying to shriek louder and louder, and to look more terrible than any body else, and recog- nized him as moving to adjourn. The chair probably thought it the part of prudence to see that the Convention adjourned, for voting on 61 the platform in the midst of sucli a tornado, and at that hour (it was after ten o'clock), would be certain to blow up the Convention. Still the Convention roared and raged, and the chairman, h^eein^ it was not worth while to try to put it down by vehement efflnts, hoked quietly at it^; and after he had recognized the Missifceippian, remained quiescent. The first voice that rose above the din was that of some frio-htened delegate, crying aloud "like some strong swimmer in his agony," emit- ting a "bubbling groan," that the application of the gag would be dis- astrous to the party. The poor fellow thought the party was about to bust and the thing die — so he shrieked for the salvation of the Dumo- cratic party. Presently the chairman managed to take the reins in his hands, and with great equanimity, firmness and calmness of manner, stated that there was no occasion for so much agitation and discompos- ure. A crowd gathered about Bishop, and some seemed to menace him. The delegates gathered in groups and grappled with each other, and surged about like waves of the sea. .The chair recognized the motion of adjournment, and a vote by States was called for, and an adjournment carried by a small majority — yeas, 158i ; nays, 143. The following is the vote : States. Yeas. A^ii/s. States. Yeas. JVays. Maioo 8 Mississippi 7 New Hampshire 5 Texas 4 Veimoiit 5 Arkansas 4 Massachusetts 7 5i Missouri 3 6 Rhode Island 4 Tennessee 12 Connecticut 1 5 Kentucky 12 New York 35 Ohio . . ." 23 New Jersey 7 Indiana 13 Pennsylvania 8 19 Illinois 5 6 Delaware 3 Michigan 6 Maryland 8 Wisconsin 5 Virginia 15 Iowa 4 North Carolina 10 Minnesota U 2i South Carolina 8 California 4 Georgia 10 Oregon 3 Florida 3 Alabama 9 lo8i 143 Louisiana 6 The Convention separated in a bad huraor. There was a call on the Southerners' to remain and consult. It was a cold, rainy night, but there was intense heat about the hotels. Men stalked about with drip- ping umbrellas, and consulted eagerly and anxiously. Every bidy said that there would necessarily be an explosion in the morning. During the evening, as it was known that "the crisis" could not much longer be put off, dispatches were flying between Washington and Charleston. The Southern members of Congress were telling the delegates from their States that they must go out with Alabama. Toombs telegraphed to the Georgians that they must not stay after Alabama went out. Gartell did the same thing. The South Carolinians also sent di.-jiatches, saying that the Palmetto delegates must not be outstripped in the race of zeal for Southern rights and independence. 52 SIXTH DAY. Chakleston, Saturday. April 28th. The first thing was a pathetic appeal from Bigler of Pennsylvania. Biffler in his wisdom, considered the occasion critical. He feared the unfon of the Democratic party could not be maintained. He was in favor of the union of the Democracy for the sake of the union of the States ; of course the union of the States would go up, the moment the Democratic party went down. He moved that the majority and minority reports be recommitted to the Convention, with instructions to report in an hour the following resolutions : Resolved, That the platform adopted by the Democratic party at Cincinnati be atfirm-d. with the followiug explanatory rosoliitiou.s : Resolved, That the govenimenl of a Territory, organized by an act of Congress, is proviKional and temporary, and, during its existence, all citizens of the United States have an equal right to settle in the Territory, without their rights either of person or property, being destroyed or impaired by Congressional or Territo- rial legislation. . , . . Resolved, That the Democratic party stands pledged to the doctrme that it 13 the duly of the Governmuut to maintain all the coustitutiomd rights of property of whatever kind, in the Territories, and to enforce all the decisions of the Supreme Court in reference thereto. Resolved, That it is the duty of the United States to afford ample and com- plete protection to all its citizens, whether at home or abroad, and whether native or foreign. Resolved, That one of the necessities of the age, in a military, commercial and postal point of view, is speedy communication between the Atlantic and Pacific States; and the Democratic party pledge such constitutional government aid as will insure the construction of a railroad to the Pacific coast at the earliest practical period. Resolved, That the Democratic party are in favor of the acquisition of the Island of Cuba, on such terms as shall be honorable to ourselves and just to Spain. Resolved, That the enactments of State Legislatures to defeat the faithful exe- cution of the Fugitive Slave law, are hostile in character, subversive ot the Con- stitution, and revolutionary in their effect. The question was divided, and a vote was taken upon the first branch of the motion of Mr. Bigler to commit the resolutions offered by the committee on Resolutions, with the amendments, back to the committee. Alabama demanded that the vote be by States. The question was taken, and it was decided in the afi&rmative. Yeas, 152; nays, 151, as follows: Slates. Fea,^. Nays. States. Yeas. Nays. Maine o 5 Maryland 5i 2.^ .Now Hampshire 5 Virginia 14 I Vermunt (» 5 North Carolina 10 MassachusettH 8 5 South Carolina 8 Rhode Island 4 Georgia 10 Connecticut 1 i 4.^ Florida 3 New York 35 Ala));una 9 NewJtrsey 4 3 Louisiana 6 I'ciinsylyauia 16 II Mississippi 7 Delaware 3 Texas 4 53 Staffs. Yea.''. JVoi/a. SU/fex. Yens. Nay^ Arkansas 4 Wisconsin 5 Missouri 5 4 Inwa 4 Tennessee 11 1 Miiiiicsota 1 '.^ Kentucky 12 California 4 Ohio 23 Oregon 3 Indiana 13 Illinois 11 152 151 Michigan 6 So the proposed platforms were recommitted. The effect of the vote to recommit was to dampen the ardor of the Douglas men very much. Mr. Bigler's motion instructing the committee, was laid on the table by a vote of 242 to 56|^, when the State of Georgia was called. As this vote was being taken a minority of her delegation, Douglasites, made a struggle to assert their right to vote as they individually pleased. The Georgia delegation had been requested to vote as a unit. The rule adopted by the Convention provided that the individual delegates should cast their votes as they pleased, when it was not provided or directed by the State bow they should cast their votes. The President reviewed the facts of the case as brought to the knowl- edge of the Convention, and held that the words of the rule, which allowed any delegate to cast his individual vote, except where the State he represented hs.A provided or directed how the vote of the delegation should be cast, covered, in his judgment, the resolution that it had been agreed upon by both parties, had been adopted by the Georgia State Convention. The word ''jirovided,''^ in the rule was evidently meant to cover something more than ''directions,''^ as both words had been used. The request of a State should certainly be liberally construed, and he thought it was a provision as to how the vote of the State should be cast. He, therefore, resolved to receive the vote of the State of Georgia, through the chairman of the delegation, as a unit. Senator Salisbury was exceedingly anxious to talk of the perilous condition of the Democratic party. A Delegate from Florida rose to the question of privilege. He was anxious to get along harmoniously and with order. As there were a certain number of gentlemen who seemed bound to make the Conven- tion look at their faces, by hopping up every minute to some question or other, he would suggest that their daguerreotypes be taken and handed round, then there would be no occasion for them to thus annoy and trou- ble the Convention. The Convention adjourned until four o'clock, to give the committee time to report. AFTERNOON SESSION. On reassembling there was the same old trouble. Three reports very slightly moditied from those originally reported. Mr. Avery of North Carolina. Mr. President, I beg leave,_ on be- half of the committee on Resolutions, to make a report, and 1 will take occasion to avail myself of tbe opportunity, before reading it, to make a single remark. 54 These resolutions meet the approbation of a mnjority of the States represented upon that committee. I will state further, that the com- mittee understood that this report embodies in substance the Bayard resolutions, and in substance the resolutions of the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Bigler), and in substance the resolutions offered by the gentleman from New York (Mr. Cochrane), being modified in such sliape as the committee think will meet the approbation of the Covention. [Applause.] KesolveA, Tliat the platform adopted by the Democratic party at Cincinnati be ailinncd. with the following explanatory resolutions : Fird. That the government of a Territory organized by an act of Congress, 13 provisional and temporary ; and, during its existence, all citizens of the United States have an efjual right to settle with their property in the Territory without their rights, either of person or property, being destroyed or impaired by Con- gressional or Territorial legislation. Second, That it is the duty of the Federal Government, in all its departments, to protect, when necessary, the rights of persons and property in the Territo- ries, and wherever else its constitutional authority extends. Third, That when the settlers in a Territory having an adequate population to form a State Constitution, the right of sovereignty commeucts, and, being con- summated by admission into the Union, they stand on an equal footing with the people of other States ; and the State thus organized ought to be adn'jitted into the Federal Union, whether its cousiitution prohibits or recognizes the institu- tion of slavery. Fourth, That the Democratic party are in favor of the acquisition of the Is- land of Culja, on such ti rins as shall be honorable to oui'selves and just to Spain, at the earliest practicable moment. Fifth, That the enactments of State Legislatures to defeat the faithful execu- cution of the Fugitive Slave law, are hostile in character, subversive of the Constitution, and revolutionary in their effect. Sixth, That the Democracy of the United States recognize it as the impera- tive duty of this Goveinment to protect the naturalized citizen in all his rights> whether at home or in foreign lands, to the same extent as its native-born citi- zens. Whereas, one of the greatest necessities of the age, in a political, commer- cial, postal and military point of view, is a speedy eonmiunication between the Pacific and Atlantic coasts : Therefore, be it Resolved. Tliat the Democratic party do hereby pledge themselves to use every means in their power to secure the passage of some bill, to the extent of the consiitulional authority of Congress, for the constniction of a Pacific Railroad, from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean, at the earliest practicable mo- ment. Mr. Avery remarked : It is proper, Mr. President, that I should state that the Bayard res- olutions have been amended, first by inserting in the first resolution, after the word " settle," the words " with their property ; " by insert- ing in the second resolution, after the words "Federal Government," the word.s "in all its departments;" after the word "protect," the words " when necessary; " by striking out in the same resolution the words " on the high-seas," as they seem to have led to some misappre- hension in regard to the views entertained by the committee in asserting that amendment. In the resolution relating to a postal and military road to California, the words " to the extent of a constitutional author- ity of Congress" are inserted after the word " bill." I would further state that the second resolution is amended in this 55 particular : As originally drafted, it read, " tho rights of |ici.sons and property on the high-seas, in the Territories, or wherever else its con- stitutional authority extends." The committee have stricken out the words " high-seas," and after the word " Territory," they have strick- en out the word "or," so that the resolution now reads: "That it is the duty of the Federal Government, in all its depart- ments, to protect, when necessary, the riglits of persons and property in the Territories, and wherever else its constitutional authority ex- tends." Mr. Butler of Massachusetts. I desire to say that I have a report to offer from the minority of the committee, which I am instructed to present, and to move its submission as an amendment, for the report of the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Samuels), who represents the larger minority of the committee. I have also the happiness to state that I have an addition to my thir- ty-two companions of yesterday. At such time as it will suit the pleas- ure of the Convention I will offer my amendment, which is the Cincin- nati Platform, pure and undefiled. [Applause.] Mr. Samuels of Iowa. I am instructed by the minority committee on resolutions to offer the following report. It is identical with the re- port that was presented by the minority committee yesterday, with the exception that the second resolution of the minority report of yesterday has been stricken out, and the following has been substituted. I will read the resolution which has been substituted. [Voices — "Read them all."] I will read them all, then. The resolutions are as follows : 1. Resolved, That we, the Democracy of the Union, in Convention assembled, hereby declare our affirmance of the resolutions unanimously adopted and de- clared as a platlorni of principles by the Democratic Convention at Cincinnati in the year 1856, believing that Democratic principles are unchangeable in their nature when appli, Alabama 9, Louisiana G.Mississippi 7, Texas 4, Arkansas 4, Missouri lu, Tennessee 1, California 3|, Oregon 3 — 65. Mr. Driijgs of New York said the Convention having adopted the Cint-iniiati Platform, he moved to lay all the resolutions on the table. The motion to lay on the table was lost. Yk.\s — Massachusetts 8^, Connecticut 2, New Jersey 5, Pennsyl- vania IGs, Delaware 2, Virginia 11, North Carolina 9, South Carolina 8, Tennessee, 101, Kentucky T^, Minnesota 1 — 81. N.ws — Maine 8, New Hampshire 6, Vermont 5, Massachusetts 45, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 4, New York 35, New Jersey 2, Penn- sylvania lOi, Delaware 1, Maryland 8, Virginia 4, North Carolina 1, Georgia 10, Florida 3, Louisiana 6, Arkansas 1, Missouri 9, Tennessee 1|, Kentucky 4^, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, Wis- consin 5, Iowa 4, Minnes')ta 3, California 4, Oregon 3 — 188. During the call, Mr. Walker af Alabama withdrew the vote of his State. Mississippi withdrew her vote. Arkansas withdrew three of her votes. The cry goes forth from one delegate after another, "in these solemn moments " — that the party must stick together, for the country will be ruined if it does not. If the party remains united, on whatever false and hypocritical platform, or pretense, the country is safe. If the par- ty blows up, the country is doomed, of course. It is said that the South can't stay in the Convention if the Cincin- nati swindle, and an indorsement of a court decision variously inter- preted, is thrust upon the country as the Democratic platform. The South thought yesterday they could stay in the Convention, after the ambiguous platform was put forth, for the sake of defeating Douglas. But to-day, they have slept upon it and become hotter, and are up to the explosive point. Mr. Gittings of Maryland insisted on talking out of order. He ac- cused the chair of ruling him out of order because he came from a slaveholding State. As the President was somewhat peremptory with him, he said: " Only one word, sir. I want to be heard. The only time I ever remember to have seen our worthy chairman before was in 1840, when he made one of the most violent Whig speeches I ever heard." [Cheers, hisses and laughter.] Mr. Ewing of Tennessee called for a separate vote on the following preamble and resolution : limsinuch as ditlorenccs of opinion (^jist in tho Democratic party as to the na- ture and extent of tiie powers of a Territorial Legislature, and as lo the powers aiid_ duties of Con;>Tess, under the Constitution of tho United Stales, over the institution of shivery within the Territories: /{exolval. That the Democratic party will abide by the decisions of the Su- preme Court of the United Slates on the questions of constitutional law. Mr. Stuart of Michigan said, if the gentleman did not want the res- olution, we of the North did not. lion, liedf'ord lirown of North Carolina warned his Northern friends not to adopt this preamble and resolution. It swept off every barrier 65 of the Constitution, and would destroy tho Democratic party and the country. [Great applause.] Mr. llicliardson wantud to speak, but Mr. Hooker of I\Ii.«sis.sippi pernisted in raisina; a point of cider on him. John Cochrane said there might he peace-ofFi^rin^s coming. Amid.st a bahel of noise and confusion tho vote was taken aceordino- to the call of Mr. Ewing. The roll call was constantly interrupted by questions and explana- tions. The Northern States first voted affirmatively, but finding the South refused to vote, changed their votes to the negative, amidst ciies of " What's the dodge now ? " " That's a back down ! " and the like. The vote was announced, and the preamble and resolutions wore re- jected. It was rej'^cted by the following vote : Yeas — New Hampshire 1, Rhode Island 4, Pennsylvania 8, Mis- souri 4, Kentucky 4 — 21. Nays — Maine 8, New Hampshire 4, Vermont 5, 3Iassachusetts 13, Connecticut 6, New Yurk 35, New Jersey 7, Pennsylvania 19, Dela- ware 2, Maryland 8, Virginia 15, North Carolina 10, South Carcdina 8, Missouri 5, Tennessee 12, Kentucky 8, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illi- nois 11, Michigan 6, Wisconsin 5, lowu 4, Minnesota 4, California 4, Oregon 3—238. A division was called on all the remaining resolutions, and they were severally adopted ; that relating to the rights of naturalized citizens re- ceiving a utianimous vote, even in this divided Convention. The reso- lutions adopted, in addition to the Cincinnati Platform, are as fulluws: 3. Resolved, That it is the duly of the United States to afTord ample and com- pU'te protwstion to all its citizens, whether at home or abroad, and whether na- tive or f()rci;reat body they represented, wliich was expressed in the Convention who sent them here, and tliat resolve that people, we, their representatives, will main- tain at all times and at all costs. They came not to dictate, and since their arrival, the intercourse has been courteous with their brethren from other State Conventions, as far as personality was coneerned. But that was not all. They claimed the exercise of the principles upou which the party must stand. He did not ask them to adopt a platform opposed to their conscieptious principles. He claimed tu come as an equal member of the common Confederacy, with the simple desire of an acknowledgment of their equal rights within that Confederacy. What was the construction of the platform of 1856 V You of the North said it meant one thing ; we of the South another. Either you were rio-ht or we wrong. They ask which was right and which wrono-. The North had maintained their position, but, while doing so, they did not acknowledge the rights of the South. Turn back to one of their lead- ing men, once representing a sovereign State in the Union, who then voted that Congress had the constitutional power to pass the Wilmot proviso, or to exclude, and now, when the Supreme Cuurt has said it is in that power, he eomes forward and says that Congress is impotent to protect slave power. The speaker then referred to the gentleman from Ohio, who, a few days since, said if a Terriforial Legislature should misuse its powers or abuse them. Congress can wipe it oat altogether. They would part with their lives before they would acknowledge the principles for which they contend. We say go your way, and we will go ours. The South leaves not like Hagar in the wilderness ; but he would tell them that in less than sixty days they would find a united South, standinc shoulder to shoulder. Senator Bayard of Delaware now announced his withdrawal from the Convention, and Senator Saulsbury of the same State, stated that he did not know what to do. Mr. Merrick of Illinois made a little speech. He said : "A Southern man. by birth — it is but three years since I parted from that Southern soil — and upon the tide f>f emigration sought my fortunes in the great North-west. Coming back here, and hoping to join in fraternal concord and mutual love with my Southern brethren of the Democratic party, I find, sir, star after star madly shooting from the great Democratic galaxy. Why is it, and what is to come of it? Does it presage that, hereafter, star after star will shoot from the galaxy of the Republic, and the American Union become a fragment, and a parcel of sectional republics?" * Points of order were raised. Mr. Russell of Virginia made a speech for that State. He said : " Hitherto the career of Virginia has been side by side with all her sister States, North, South, East and West, and beneath a banner on which every State has its star, as members of one coram(tn and united constellation ; but it must be known to this assembly that if indeed the hour shall ever come when the North and South must separate, the destiny of Virginia is with the South. [Loud cheers.] She will then have to 68 pay to tlie South, 'where thoii gocst T will go; thy people shall be my people, anlied, civiliza- tion would go back two hundred yeais. The prohibition of the slave- trade had put an end to all hope of extending the area of slavery at the present time. There was but one remedy at present for the evils the South complained of, and that was, to reopen the African slave-trade. [Cheers and loud laughter.] In this he looked to the Nurthern Dtmoo- racy to ad ihem. [Renewed laugiiter and ch'crs.] • He told his lellow- Democrats that the African sla.etrade man is the 78, Union man — the true Christran man. He told them that the slave- trade of Virginia was more inhuman, more unchristian, in every point of view, than the African slave-trade ; for the African slave-trader goes to a heathen land, and brings the savage here, and Christianizes and moralizes him, and sends him down to posterity a happy man. [Cheers and loud laughter.] Mr. Reed of Indiana. I am with you. I favor it. Mr. Gaulden. Good. Then he would put him down for one. He declared that the Virginia slave-trader, who tore a slave family asunder from those ties which cluster around civilization, whether it be the slave or the free man, was far more open to rebuke than the man who brought the African from a land where he has no ties of country or family around him. He desired not to be discourteous to Virginia ; but, with all deference to the State, he believed they were influenced more than they ought to be by the almighty dollar. He had himself purchased some slaves in Virginia, and had to pay from one tliousand to twelve hundred dollars, while he could buy a better nigger in Africa for fifty dollars. [Loud laughter and great applause.] Now, if any of his friends from the North would go down to his plantation in Georgia — it was not far from here, and he hoped many of them would — he would show them negroes he had purchased in Virginia, in Georgia, in Alabama, in Louisiana, and he would also show them the native African, the noblest Roman of them all. [Shouts of laughter and applause repeated round after round.] The applause and laughter on the floor, during this gentleman's speech, were overpowering. He was in deadly earnest, and talked with no little force of expression. He is a tall, hatchet-faced man, with brown complexion, high nose, great eyes, thin, straggling, black beard and black hair. His personal appearance is much like that of Edo-er- tou, M. C, of Ohio. ° Mr. McCook of Ohio moved the adoption of the following resolution : Resolved. That this Convention will proceed at 2 P. M. of this day, hy a call of the States, to nominate a candidate for President, and immediately thereafter, to nomiuate a candidate for the Vice-Presidency of the United States. Mr. RafFerty of New Jersey, on the part of his delegation, presented a protest against the vote of the house, overruling the decision of the chair, on the controversy respecting the easting of the vote of that Slate. The condition of affairs here and now — Charleston, May 1st, twelve o'clock — is as follows : The seceding Southerners are just calling their Constitutional Democratic Convention to order, at St. Andrew's Hall. A row is in progress in this hall among the California delegates. At this moment, three of them are at sword's points, bickering as to what shall be done and who shall speak the voice of the State. John Coch- rane of New York is anxious to make a speech. Mr. McCook of Ohio wants to force a motion to come to a ballot for a candidate for the Pres- idency at two o'clock. Half a dozen Southern delegations are out consultiTig, trying to find where they are to go. 79 One of the Californians obtains full possession of the floor, and pro- ceeds to pour liot shot into the Popular Sovoreii^nty camp. He charged those who liad supported the minority platform, with truckling to Black Republicanism. A Connecticut delegate (Gallagher) springs up, white with rage, and black hair flying in his eyes, ami raises a que.'-tion of order, that the gentleman from California has no right to slander tlie Democracy of Connecticut. He made the point of order, too, that the Californian had no business to stand up and, as with a lash, to belather the men of the North. California has great happiness in finding that the cap fits the gentle- man from Connecticut. He proceeds to say that the South has been maltreated in the confederacy, and says that if the aggressions of the North continue, and the Union should be dissolved, the Pacific States have, thank God, the domain upon which to build up a splendid empire of their own. He 'Concludes by grossly insulting a gentleman fiom Missouri. This Californian seems eager to vary the exeroi.'^es by a fight. He looks and talks as if nothing would agree with his stomach so well as a bowie-knife encounter. The insulted Missourian proceeds to make a speech. He would not sit in a Convention where his motives were called in question. The chair had not heard the insult, or he would have called the Californian to order. Missouri proceeded to give forth a doleful sound about the disrupted Democracy. His lamentations were grievous as tho.se of Jeremiah, but not so eloquent or poetic. A tall, black-bearded, ferocious looking Californian gets up, and makes the most amiable speech ever heard, rebuking, in the mildest and kindest terms, his ill-mannered and insolent colleague. McCook of Ohio jumps up and wants to press a vote on the Presidency. John Cochrane wants to speak ; but objections are raised, and John can't speak. Seward of Georgia wants to explain his position. After a while, he obtains unan- imous consent to go on, and proceeds to tell what he thought of the un- derstanding between the North and South in the Kansas and Nebraska fight — all of which he ^aw, and part of which he was, as a member of Congress from the State of Georgia. As this letter closes, Seward is making a strong popular sovereignty speech, which is oil upon the fev- erish wounds of the poor Northern Democrats. He is going home to Georgia to state the case to the people of that State. And now a North Carolinian gets up and encourages the Douglasites, by telling them he is not going out. Mr. Richardson of Illinois tried to speak comfortably to the people. Mr. Perry of South Carolina, one of the fragments that remained, rose to speak, and was greeted by a storm of hisses from the galleries. Mr. Perry begged the North, making the appeal in the most earnest and pathetic manner, simply to give up the point of controversy. He as- sured the Northerners that they were wrong, and should give up for the sake of harmony. The Charleston Courier reports him as saying : He deeply regretted the schisms that had been going nn. He represented, with his friend, Col. Boozer, only one vote, and if the South all retired, it would be folly for them to remain ; so he besought the Convention to give some boon to the South. So far as any practical good could be accomplished, it was a mere abstraction ; no issue could arise under it, 8^ for no slaveholder would go into Territories unfit for slave labor, whea it was hure to liocume a tree State upon entering the Union. He beg- ged the North to cuusider these things;, and to do all in its power to heal the unhup[»y differences that had arisen. Mr. llo.vaid of Tennesste had been instructed to ask of the Con- ventidn llic rnognitiun of Congressional piotectiun. The gentleman from Illinois (Mr. lliuhardsonj suid that his honur and manliui'd forbid bini from retreating from his position. Was his honor, was his mauhoud, only dependent upon a disregard of conslitutiunal righlsV He read, on the [lurt of Tennessee and tier sister State of Kentucky, which stood between the two extrenies of the country, the following resolution, which he believed would reunite the North and the South, and was the ulti- matum of the South : Re-iolved. Tiiat all the citizens of the United States have an equal right to set- tle, with ilicir properly, in the IVrritories of the United States, uud tiiat, under the decisions ot the Supreme Court of the United Slates, which we recognize as a correct exposition ol the Coii^litutiou of the Uiited States, neither then- rights of person nor properly cau be destroyed or unpaired by (Jongressioiial or Ter- ritorial legislation. He also presented a resolution, declaring that on the ballot for Pres- ident and Vice-President, no person should be declared to be nomina- ted who did not receive two-thirds of all the votes the full Convention was entitled to cast. Mr. Richardson of Hlinois took the floor, when the chair reminded him that ihe dehate was not in order. iMr. Ptus.-ell of Virginia said the delegation of that State believed, so far as the plutfomi is concerned, the resolution read by the gentlemaa from Tennessee formed a reasonable basis f)r a unimi of the Ncnth and South. It affiims the decision in the Supreme Court, in the Dred Scott case, and goes no further. So far as the second resolution was concerned, relaiiug to the selection of a candidate for the Ple^idencJ, they believed that if the selection of a candidate was made, national in its character, the South would support them, no matter what the action of delegates might be. It might he suspected that, the resolution was aimed ai one particular candidate. It was not so. Virginia only de- sired to receive the nationality of the nomination. The South would only be lepicsented negiitively in the choice, for her absent votes could not be counted in the affirmative for any candidate. They believed, too, that the true interpretation of the rule would require the votes of two-thirds of the representation to nominate, and not two thirds of those present, alone. Unless the resolution he offered should be adopted, he was not in.^iructed to cast the vote of Virginia on any question at pres- ent in this Convention. Mr. Howard of Tennessee disclaimed any intention in his remarks to be threatening. Mr. Caldwell of Kentucky said : When the delegation had retired for consuhaiior), and had declared that the adoption of the resolution read liy the gentleman from Tennessee, would be acceptaltle to Ken- tucky, and would, they believe, bring ijaek those who had left the Con- vention, il,e Kentucky delegation had also taken action ou the two-thirds 81 rule, and had decided that the proper constraction of the two-thirds rule was, that it required two-thirds of the vote of the Electoral College to elect. A motion was made to adjourn, and upon it the vote was taken by States. When Georgia was called, Mr. Cohen, of that State, said ten dele- gates remained, and they claimed to have power to east the vote of the State. The chair decided that the minority had no right to cast the vote of the State. Mr. Holden of Tennessee appealed from the decision of the chair. He said : Whoin the Gods would destroy they first make mad. The decision of the chair is mofct suicidal and destructive. It destroyed the rights of the State. The decision of the chair was sustained — 148 ayes to 100 nays. The previous question on the motion of Mr. Howard was seconded. The motion to adjourn, on which the vote by States had been called, was lost — 92 ayes to 158 najs. Convention, after skirmishing, ad- journed until 5 o'clock P. M. AFTERNOON SESSION. Mr. Howard rose to a privileged question, and moved to take up his resolution. The chair said it was not a privileged question. Mr. Howard. Then I will state it as a privileged question. Mr. llussell of Virginia wished to state that the decision which the chair makes on this question now, will decide whether Virginia will longer partake in the proceedings of the Convention. Mr. Howard said the time fixed by Mr. McCook's resolution to bal- lot for a candidate for President had long since passed, and that the resolution was not, therefore, in order. The chair decided that the time named in the resolution would not affect its passage. The question, shall the main question be now put, was then put, and the motion carried by the following vote : States. Yeas. Nays. States. Yeas. Nays. Maine 5 3 Mississippi New Hampshire 5 Texas Vermont 5 Arkansas 1 Massaclmsetts 6 7 Missouri Ak H Rhode Island 4 Tennessee 1 U Connecticut 31 2^ Kentucky 12 New York 35 Ohio 23 New Jersey 7 Indiana 13 Pennsylvania 9^ Ifij Illinois U Delaware 2 Michigan 6 Maryland 3 5 Wisconsin 5 Virginia 15 Iowa 4 North Carolina 10 Minnesota 2^ 1^ South Carolina ... California 4 Geortiia Oregon 3 Florida Alabama 149 102 Louisiana , .... Mr. Ludlow, before the vote of New York was cast, inquired of the chair if he uadeislood that the question of privilege on the meaning 6 82 and effect of tlio two-thirda rule, would be decided before the question was put on the resolution. Tlio President. It will be so decided. The propo-sition of Mr. Howard, declaring tbat the President would uot declare any candidate elected who did not receive two-thirds of the vote of the Electoral College, was then brought forward as a question of privilege. Mr. Howard said he would use no argument to enforce this on the committee, but would leave it at once to a decision of the chair. The chair is of opinion that this proposition of the State of Tennes- see, involving the question as to how the chair will decide the vote on the election of the candidate for the Presidency, is in order. Mr. Ftichardson. On that, I appeal from the decision of the chair, and call the vote by States. After some discussion, Mr. Richardson withdrew his appeal, and moved to lay the resolution of the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Howard) on the table. The vote was taken by States, and the motion to lay on the table lost : Slates. Yeas. Nays. States. Yeas. Nays. Maiae 5 3 Mississippi NewHampRhire 5 Texas Vermont 5 Arkansas 1 Mas.sachu8etts 4^ 8^ Missouri 4J 4J Rliode Islaud 4 Tennessee 1 11 Couuccticut 3^ 2J Keutucliy 12 New Yorii 35 Ohio 23 New Jersey l\ bk Indiana 13 Pcansylvania 10 16g Illinois 11 Delaware 2 Michigan 6 Maryland 2 6 Wiscousia 5 Virginia 15 Iowa 4 North Carolina 10 Minnesota 2^ 1^- Soulh Carolina California 4 Georgia Oregon 3 Florida Alabama IIU 141 Ijouisiana The question then being on Mr. Howard's resolution, Mr. Stuart of Michigan raised the point of order that the effect of the resolution was to change the rule of the Convention, and must lie over. He read the rule, which was that " two-thirds of the votes given " should be neces- sary to nominate. He declared language could not be more explicit. Mr. Howard said a case in point had arisen in 1844, when the New York delegates were excluded from the Convention. The decision then WJis tbat it required two-thirds of the electoral vote to elect. The President said the rule of the Convention of 1852 was in sub- stance as the gentleman had stated. It was true a rigid construction of the rule would seem to be that it alluded to the votes cast on the ballot in this Convention. But the words are, "Two-thirds of the votes given in this Convention." The gentleman further argues the inconvenience that would arise from the voluntary absence of one-third of the Convention, so as to prevent a nomination. This Convention has no legal authority — its au- thority is only of a moral character. The gentleman bad remarked on the inconvenience that might be ex- perienced by a Convention assuming that a third of the delegates should withdraw and»prevent a nomination ; but it would be a still greater in- convenience should a small minority of a Convention be enabled to force a nomination on the people of the United States. The nomina- tion of a Convention is only a recommendation to the people of the country, but in the judgment of the chair, the consideration of con- venience and inconvenience would, if taken into the question at all, re- quire that the act of the Convention should be the act of all the States of the Union. The chair is not of opinion that the words of the rule apply to the votes cast for the candidate, but to the votes that are cast here, in this Convention, or two-thirds of all the votes to be cast by the Convention. So the chair is of opinion that the resolution of Mr. Howard of Ten- nessee contemplates no change or modification of the rules of the house. Another reason is, that it is not competent for the chair to construe a rule, when it is proposed by a vote of the house to decide its construction. The effect of the resolution of the gentleman from Tennessee, if adopted, will be to direct the President that in the votes to be cast under his inspection, he shall make only such a decision as to the nomination as the resolution dictates. The resolution of the gentleman from Tennessee is, therefore, in order. Mr. Stuart of Michigan trusted that it was not necessary for him to disclaim any discourtesy to the chair, when he appealed from this de- cision, and he would only say that the construction of the chair, that the words " the votes given here " were meant to apply to all the votes cast by the Convention, could never receive the sanction of logic. Several delegations having asked leave to retire for consultation, de- sired that the chair would state, before they retired, the exact position of the question. There was intense excitement and great confusion in the hall. The chair explained that the question was upon the appeal from the decision, that the resolution of Mr. Howard did not change the rules, and was, therefore, in order. The vote was announced as follows : States. Yeas. Nays. Stales. Yex/s. Nays. Maine ... 3 5 Mississippi New Hampshire 1 4 Texas Vermont 5 Arkansas Massachu.gett.? b\ 3^ Missouri Ai 4.] Rhode Island 4 Tennessee 11 l" Connecticut 24 '6 Kentucky lU •> New York 35 Ohio...'. o" fi New Jersey 5] 1^ Indiana lo Pennsylvania 17i 9^ Illinois 11 Delaware 2 Michigan 6 Maryland 6 2 Wisconsin 5 Virginia L) Iowa 4 North Carolina 10 Minnesota 1 2^ South Carolina 1 California.... 4 Georgia Oregon 3 Florida Alabama 144 108 Louisiana 84 Jlr. Sturirt moved to anaend the resolution by adding : And that every person who casts a vote binds himself hereby to vote for the can- didate rioinirvated. » Mr. Howard. I ask by what right the gentleman makes himself a keeper oF the consciences of his peers. JMr. Butler of Massachusetts raised the po'nt of order that the amendment was not germane to the original resolution. He moved the previous question. Mr. Rustell of Virginia siaid that if Virginia remained in a Conven- tion, her honor bound her to abide by its decisions. [Applause.] After further discussion, the chair decided that the amendment of Mr. Stuart was not germane to the original resolution, and hence, was not in order. The previous question was then ordered, and the vote being called by States, Mr. Howard's resolution was adopted by the following vote : Siaies, i'eas. Nays. States. Yeas. Nay^. Maine 3 5 Mississippi New Hampsliire 5 Texas Vermont 6 Arkansas 1 Massachusetts ^ ik Missouri 2^ 2k Rhode Island 4 Tennessee 11 1 Connecticut 2^^ 3k Kentucky 11 1 New York 35" Ohio 23 New Jersey 5J IJ Indiana 13 Pennsylvaijia Hj 9^ Illinois 11 Delaware 2 Michigan 6 Maryland C 2 Wisconsin 5 Virginia 15 Iowa 4 North Carolina 10 Minnesota U 2^ South Carolina 1 California 4 Georgia Oregon 3 Florida Alabama 141 112 Louisiana.... Mr. Bio'ler moved to reconsider the vote and that the motion be laid on the table. The vote of New York was decisive on this question. Balloting for a candidate for the oflBce of President of the United States was now in order. Mr. King of Missouri nominated Stephen A. Douglas. Mr. Caldwell of Kentucky nominated " the favorite son and incorruptible statesman of Kentucky," James Guthrie. Mr. Pat- rick of California nominuted Daniel S. Dickinson. Mr. Russell of Vir- ginia nominated It. M. T. Hunter. Mr. Ewing of Tennessee nomi- nated An Irew Johnson. Mr. Stevens of Oregon nominuted Joe Lane. After the vote of New York had decided that it was impossible to nominate Douglas, she proceeded, the roll of States being called, to vote lor him as demurely as if she meant it. The first ballot for the nomination of a candidate for the Presidency, was taken about dusk, amid the most profound silence. When the name of Douglas was put in nomination, a feeble yelp went up from the North-western delegations. It was not hearty and strong, but thin and spiritless. There was no hopefulness in it, but something of defi- ance. It was as much as to say, " Well, if we cau't nominate him, you cannot nominate auy body else." 85 The spnlcesmen of the North-western delegations tried to make their votes for Douglas impressive, but it was a failure. They said ao many votes for "Stephen A. Douglas, of Illinois," but it would not do. They were overhung now by a cloud of South Carolinians in the gal- leries, and the cold steel of the new construction of the two-thirds rule had pierced their vitals. The North-western delegations, commencing with Ohio, had always, until now, produced something of an effect, voting in solid column, according to the direction on the Douglas pro- gramme. But McCook of Ohio failed to give any rotundity to the vote, "twenty-three votes for Stephen A. Douglas." Gavit of Indi- ana ripped out the vote of that State, and glared round with the air of an assassin. He looked as if he would cut any man's throat who had any thing to say against that. Richardson of Illinois looked as if at a funeral, and gave the vote of Illinois in a voice like the sound of clods on a coffin. The followinsr is the FIRST BAIJ.OT. STATES. i 'bo a o Q .2 .a 3 O c 5 a D a a a .a >-> c OS h-5 3 2^ make provision for supplying all vacancies in their respective delegations to this Convention when it slJall reassemble. [Applause.] [A dispute has arisen about the wording of this resolution — a pam- phlet copy of the proceedings at Charleston having been published in Washington, in which the resolution reads: Resolved, That when this Convention adjourns to day, it adjourn to meet in Baltimore on the 18th day of June, in order to afford the States that are not now represented an opportunity to fill up their delegations. Senator Mason of Virginia considered this matter of sufficient im- portance to address a card to the Washington Constitution concerning it. Mr. Mason quotes the two forms of the resolution, and says of that first above, wnich I take from the file of the Charleston Courier : The above is a copy taken by me from the resolution in Mr. Russell's possession, which he brought with him from Charleston. The marked difference between the two will strike the reader at once. As printed in the pamphlet, it is addressed only to " States that are not now represented," imputing that there were States, in the judgment of the Convention, not then represented in the Convention ; thus seeming to imply that the seats of the delegations of those States who had with- drawn were then vacant. In the resolution really presented and adopted, a recommendation is addressed " to the Democratic party of the several Slates to make pro- vision fur supplying all vacancies in their respective delegations when it fchall reai^kcmble."] Tlie rules were quickly suspended to allow Mr. Russell's resolution to be considered. Then there was an amendment made to strike out Baltimore and in- sert Philadelphia. There was moved an amendment to the amendment, to strike out Philadelphia and insert New York. Pending these amend- ments there were several very funny scenes, which would have been ex- citing, if the Convention had not become an inconsequential mob. Randall of Pennsylvania several times jumped up with his gnarled gray head and comically severe expression, and attempted to put some- thing before the house with which he was swollen. Several malicious fellows, to tease the old man, raised points of order upon him. The old gentleman would get out of his place, close up to the chair, to put a moiion, and some rascal would raise the point upon him, that he was out of his place. Gushing would look down upon him with a queer pucker at the corners of his mouth — the smile of a lion looking kindly upon a sheep — and would slaughter him by sustaining the point of order and sending him back to his place. At last the old gentleman mounted a chair in his place and screamed at the chair, and was recog- nized. The Convention was in great good humor with him, and gave him a vociferous round of applause. The old gentleman moved to sub- stitute for the various motions before the house, that the Convention meet on the fourth of July, in Independence Plall. He thought a meeting at that holy time and place, would do them all a great deal of good. The country would have been saved at once, but the motion was out of order. Mr. Montgomery of Pennsylvania was desperately anxious to address the chair, and when the chair recognized somebody else, he was indig- nant, and declared his voice (which is a roarer) too weak, and his form (which is a whopper) too small, for the one to be seen or the other to be heard by the chair. The chair arose in indignation and struck the table three violent blows with his hammer, which he would evidently have been happy to bestow upon the head of Montgomery. He then stated the case to Montgomery in the most explicit terms. The question on substituting New York for Baltimore, was lost by a viva voce vote The question on substituting Philadelphia for Balti- more, was lost by the following vote : Ykas — Maine 3, Massachusetts 10;^, Connecticut 1, New Jersey 7, Pennsylvania 2G^, Delaware 2, North Carolina 4, Missouri 4, Ten- nessee irjl Kentucky 11^, Minnesota H, California 1 — 88^. Nays — Maine 5, New Hampshire 5, Vermont 5, Massachusetts 2^, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 5, New York 35, Maryland 8, Virginia 15, North Carolina 6, Arkansas 1, Missouri 5, Tennessee 1^, Ken- tucky 5, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 2^, California 3, Oregon 3—165. The original resolution was then carried by the following vote : Ykas — Maine 5, New Hampshire 5, Vermont 5, Massachusetts 10, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 0, New York 35, New Jersey 2, Penn- sylvania 23^, Maryland 5, Virginia 14^, Arkansas 1, Missouri 6, Ten- 95 nessee 7, Oliio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, "Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 4, California 3 — 195. Nays — Maine 3, Connecticut 3, Now Jersey 5, Pennsylvania 3, Maryland 3, Virginia d, North Carolina 14, Missouri 3, Tennessee 5, Kentucky 12 — 55. The President. The chair, before putting the final motion to ad- journ, requests for a few moments the attention of the Convention. Order being restored, the President naid : ''Gentlemen of the Convention: — Allow me, before putting the question of adjournment, to address to you a parting word. " I desire, first, to say, and, in saying it, to bear testimony to your constituents and to the people of the IJnited States that, coiisirlering the numerousness of the assembly, the important interests involved in its deliberations, and the emotions thus naturally awakened in your bosoms ; considering all this, I say your sessions have been distin- guished by order, by freedom from personalities, by decorum and by observance of parliamentary method and law. In the competition for the floor, in the zeal of gentlemen to promote their respective opinions by motions or objections to motions in the lassitude of protracted sit- tings, occasions have occurred of apparent, but only apparent, confu- sion. But there has been no real confusion, no deliberate violation of order. I am better able than any other person to speak knowingly on this point, and to speak impartially, and I say it with pride and pleas- ure, as a thing especially proper for me to say from the chair. " I desire further to say for and in behalf of myself, that I also know, by the knowledge of my own heart and conscience, that in the midst of circumstances always arduous, and in some respects of peculiar embar- rassment, it has been my steady purpose and constant endeavor to dis- charge impartially the duties of the chair. If, in the execution of these duties, it shall have happened to me to address any gentleman abruptly, or not to have duly recognized him, I beg pardon of him and of the Convention. " Finally, permit me to remind you, gentlemen, that not merely the fortunes of the great Constitutional party which you represent, but the fortunes of the Constitution also, are at stake on the acts of this Con- vention. During the period now of eighty-four years, we, the States of this Union, have been associated together in one form or another, for objects of domestic order and foreign security. We have traversed side by side the wars of the Revolution, and other and later wars. Through peace and war, through sun.shine and storm, we have held our way manfully on, until we have come to be the Great Republic. Shall we cease to be such ? I will not believe it : I will not believe that the noble work of our fathers is to be shattered into fragments ; this great Republic to be but a name, a history of a mighty people once existing, but existing no longer save as a shadowy memory, or as a monumental ruin by the side of the pathway of time ! I fondly trust that we shall continue to march on forever — the hope of nations, as well in the Old World as in the New — like the bright orbs of the firaianicut, which roll on without rest, because bound for eternity ; without haste, because pre- destined for eternity; so may it be with this glorious Confederation of States. " I pray you, tlierefore, gentlemen, in your return to your constitu- ents and to the bosoms of your families, to take with you as your guid- ing thought the sentiment of the Constitution and the Union. And with this, I cordially bid you farewell, until the prescribed reassembling of the Cunvcnlion." The address was received with loud applause, and at its close the President doolared that the Convention stood adjourned until the 18th of June, then to meet at 12 o'clock, noon, in the city of Baltimore. The final fall of the hammer was the signal for a general stampede, and the delegates rushed from the hall. The monu'ot before the Convention assumed a nebulous appearance, a Baltimnrean had something very sweet to say of the hc-pitalities of the Monumental City. The loss of interest in the proceedings of this Convention will strikingly appear from the fact, that while there are seats in the ladies' gallery for at least four hundred, and that at times they had not only filled them, but appeared on the floor by scores, there were but seven ladies in the hall when the adjournment took place. Public opinion has for some days been divided as to the abilities of Mr. Curbing as a presiding officer. He is accused of being too elabo- rate, and too formal, and incapable of despatching business. Bat it should be remembered that during a great part of the time here, his object has not been to despatch business, but to procrastinate. Certain- ly there has been admirable success in this. It must, however, be said of Mr. Curbing as a presiding officer, that he is a little too fond of making <'i speech in deciding a point of order, and that he gives too many reasons for a ruling, especially where it is tolerably clear that he is not strictly impartial. Charleston, S. C, May 3d (evening). The adjournment of the Convention has been followed by an outrage- ous eagerness to get home. Yesterday the Northern delegates general- ly professed the most amazing capacities for endurance. They were ready to stay here any length of time. There was nothing either in their families or their business to call them home. They were prepared to brave yellow fever or any other form of pestilence. They were ready to defy the plague, though it might be as malignant as tradition says it was in other countries. To-day, the Convention adjourned at a few minutes after eleven, and there was a little more than an hour left before the principal Northern and North-eastern trains took their depart- ure. The rush to the hotels, and the calls for bajigag-e and bills, the hurried cramminy; of carpet-bags, valises and trunks, the headlong races up and plunges down stairs, the yelling after coaches, the shaking hands and tak-ng " [)arting drinks," made up a scene that was somewhat amazing to the leisurely people of Charleston. Some of those who were yes'erday loudest in their professions of willingness to spend the Bumincr mouths here, made the most reckless despatch in getting out of town. Douglas men think they have done it up beautifully, in adjourning. 97 and calling for new representations for the cotton States. But the path before them is by no means clear, as yet. The vote of New York is the pivot on which things turn, and it is uncertain as the wind at a street-crossing. THE CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION. FIRST DAY. Charleston, S. C, May 1st. The seceding delegations met, in the first place, the evening after the disruption of the National Convention, at St. Andrew's Hail, where the names of Secretaries were reported — Mayor Wood and his New York delegation also registering their names, upon the invitation of Mr. Yancey. Pursuant to call, the seceding delegates met at Military Hall, Tues- day, May 1st, at 12 M. John S. Preston, of S. C, called the meet- ing to order. The following number of delegates were found to be enrolled : From Delaware, 2 ; Virginia, 1 ; South Carolina, 14, Georgia, 2 ; Florida, 6 ; Alabama, 21 ; Mississippi, 14 ; Texas, 10 ; Arkansas, 4 ; Missouri, 3; New York, 41. Other delegates proceeded to enroll their names. Mayor Wood & Co. withdrew, because " the New York delegation were not in the attitude of being members of the Convention which sat in Institute Hall. The following gentlemen were elected officers of the Convention : FOR PRESIDENT. . JAMES A. BAYARD, of Delaware. FOR VICE-PRESIDENTS. James Simons, South Carolina. John Milton. Florida. I. T. Irwin. Georgia. John A. Jordon, Arkansas. Robert G. Scott, Alabama. H. R. Runnels, Texas. James Drane, Mississippi. William G. Whitelej^, Delaware. Bmile LaSere, Louisiana. M. W. Fisher, Virginia. For Secretaries— Thomas P. Ochiltree, of Texas; Franklin Gaillard. of South Carolina; N. H. R. Dawson, of Alabama ; F. W. Hoadley, of Arkansas; D. D. Withers, of Louisiana ; W. H. H. Tison, of Mississippi. Mr. Bayard, in taking the chair, made a lengthy speech. A committee on Resolutions was appointed as follows : Delaware, W. G. "Whiteley ; South Carolina, A. A. Allemong ; Geor- gia, Henry R. Jackson ; Florida, Charles E. Dyke ; Alabama, John 7 98 Ervin ; Mississippi, Ethan Barksdale ; Louisiana, Eobcrt A. Hunter; Arkansas, W. E. Burrows ; Texas, Fletcher S. Stockdale. Mr. Yancey oflered the following, to be referred to the committee on Resolutions : Rcifolved, Thiit desiring to base its action entirely upon the Constitution, this meeting style itself the Constitutional Democracy. Resolved' That the platform adopted by the Democratic party at Cincinnati be affirmed, with the following explanatory resolutions : [Those of the majority report of the other Convention.] Adjourned. 1 SECOND DAY Charleston, S. C., May 2d. Convention met in the theatre. The seats in the dress circle were occupied by a brilliant array of beauty and fashion. The family circle and galleries were filled with spectators, citizens and strangers. The pit had been reserved for the delegates. In correcting the journal, Mr. Walker of Alabama moved to correct by striking cut the word " seceding " before delegations, and inserting the word " retiring," so as to make it read retiring delegates. Mr. Winston suggested the word " withdraw. " The word •' retiring " was adopted. Mr. Burrows, from the committee on Resolutions, reported a series of resolutions, the material ones of which were : Resolved, That the platform adopted by the Democratic party at Cincinnati, be affirmed, with the following explanatory resolutions: First. That the governmein of a Territory organized by an act of Congress, is provisional and temporary ; and during its existence, all citizens of the Unit- ed States have an equal right to settle with their property in the Territory, without their rights c4ther of person or property being destroyed or impaired by Congressional or Territorial legislation. Second. That it is the duty of the Federal Government, in all its departments, to protect, when necessaiy, the rights of persons and property in the Territo- ries, and wherever else its constitutional authority extends. Third. That when the settlers in a Territory having an adequate population, form a State Constitution in pursuance of law, the right of Sovereignty com- mences, and, being consummated by admission into the Union, they stand on an equal footing with the people of other States ; and the State thus organized ought to be admitted into the Federal Union, whether its coustitutiou prohibits or recognizes the institution of slavery. Mr. Yancey said : I think, sir, that the Convention is prepared to act now on the platform. That is all, 1 believe, that it is proposed to act on until another contingency arises, to wit, the nomination of a candidate by the National Democratic Convention in session, the rump Democracy or rump Democrats, when it may be our privilege to indorse the nominee, o;- our duty to proceed to make a noiuination according to the will of this body. Mr. Jaeksun of iMississippi was not in favor of stopping with the adoption of a platform. He said : This is no time to pause for further 99 reflection. But I am not propareil to pause simply upon a platform of principle. To pau.se at all is, in my judgment, a synij)tom of woaknci-s. We have met the Demecracy now in t^ossiun. We have left it upon principle, and upon principle alone will I ever return to it. [Applause.] Boldly, Mr. Ciiairman, boldly have we taken our position, and it is a position of positions. Are we to be tempted back into that organiza- tion by the nomination of any man. [Cries of " No ! never ! "] Mr. Yancey argued that that was simply a meeting of delegates retir- ed from another Convention. He said further : We may be called Dig union Democrats. We are not disunionists. We have put nothing upon the record to justify the assertion ; yet it will be easy to attach to the name the weight of the disunion movement. After a long discussion, the platform was unanimously adopted. A discussion then ensued on the propriety of proceeding to nominate candi- dates. The time was spent in speeches, however. THIRD DAY CuART.ESTON. S. C, May 3d. After some discussion, the motion of Mr. Jackson, that the Conven- tion proceed to nominate candidates, was withdrawn. Next a discussion sprung up about an address to the people of the United States. There were several propositions of this nature. Judp-e Meek, in stating the facts as to the strength of the different branches of the Democracy in Alabama, said : "They [alluding to the delegates of the other Convention, which had just adjourned] had then adjourned to meet at Baltimore at a future day. They had thus, to use a popular phrase, clinched their ac- tion, and now they called upon the South to send new delegates to the adjourned Convention. Alabama would never be represented in a Convention so formed, founded on a Squatter Sovereignty Platform. The vote in the Convention that elected the present delegation to Charles- ton, stood four hundred and ninety-nine to twelve, and that was the strength of the Douglas Squatter Sovereignty doctrine in Alabama. Indeed, out of this twelve, seven were in fact opposed to the doctrine of Squatter Sovereignty. Now, what the present Convention had really desired, was to have put forward a great historic name, that would have commanded confidence and respect all over the Union — he alluded to Jefferson Davis of Mississippi. They had also, he might say, contem- plated putting in connection with that name the name of the honored gentleman who now presided over their deliberations, and thus have secured a ticket sans peur, sans reproche. But any definite action now was deemed inexpedient." It was decided, finally, not to address the country. Mr. Yancey disclaimed disunionism per se. Mr. Jackson of Georgia offered a res- olution, calling for a Convention at Washington City on the second Monday in June. Adjourned. 100 EVENING SESSION. President Bayard made a speech, retiring from the Convention. He made a strong speech for the Union. Judge Meek replied to Bayard. He said : " The gentleman said they had come here to save the Union. They had not — they had come here to save the Constitution." [Applause.] The following resolution was adopted, and the Convention adjourned : Resolved, Tliat the Democrutic party of the United States who are in favor of the platform of priueiple rccoiniueuded by a majority of States in the Charleston Convention, be invited to b^end delegates to a Convention to be held in Rich- mond, on the second j\londnj in June next ; and that the basis of representation be the same as that upon which the States have been represented in the Charles- ton Convention. APPEARANCE OF THE SECEDERS' CONVENTION IN SESSION. Chakleston. S. C May 3d. After the adjournment of the National Democratic Convention, I looked in upon the Seceders in their theatre. The dress circle was densely crowded by ladies. You see at once the patriotism of the Carolina ladies exemplified. Tbere were not more than a dozen of them to witness the proceedings of the Rump Convention this morning, and here they were smiling upon the "constitutional" champions of the South by hundreds. I do not think I had seen the Carolina beauties. There were actually plenty of beautiful women in the theatre this morning, and it has been a customary remark during the sessions of the Convention at Institute Hall, that female beauty was a scarce article in the Carolinas, so far as appeared. But though the women were beau- tiful, they had not the peach-bloom cheeks and May-cherry lips of the Ohio girls — no, not by any means. Well, the principal feature of the Convention was the ladies. The " performance," while I was present, was fair. In fact, it looked very like a play, the actors having not only occupied the stage, but taken possession of the parquette. The latter was occupied by the delegates, and no impartial spectator could have said, that the representatives of the cotton States there assembled were other than a noble set of men. The chevalier Senator Bayard occupied the chair, and sat near the footlights — a courtly gentleman, whose ro- mantic ancestry and name, as well as his long curls, and fine features, and distinguished air, were admirably adapted to concentrate the gaze of the ladies. The stage scene which was on, was that of the Borgia Palace. Those who have seen the play, will of course remember the "bloods" on a spree, one of whom struck off the b, leaving okgia, whereupon there was an unnecessary (as always occurred to me) amount of amusement and alarm concerning the freak, and immoderate offense taken at it. Well, in this play the u was already off — the deed had been done. As I first looked at the stage, two gigantic policemen — Iii.shmen, of course — with blue frock-coats and brass buttons, and large stars on their breasts, and maces eighteen inches long in their bands, stalked behind the President and Secretaries and Reporters, and mysteriously passed beyond a side scene. lOi They seemerl to be the heavy villains, procured by the designing scoundrel to carry off the virgin in the case, who was in love with some- body else. The real play was going on in the pit. Mr. Burrows of Arkansas, a black-haired, black-eyed, swarthy, hook-nosed, portly gentleman, had the floor, and was making some very general and very extreme proposi- tion. His idea — and it was not a novel one — of being a bold and original man — is to be as ultra as possible — to out-Herod all the Herods of his party. The fundamental article of his faith, just now, is that Squatter Sovereignty is a great deal worse than the rankest sort of Abolitionism — that Douglas is ever so much more dangerous to the South than Seward, and that the Douglas men are a very bad type of Abolitionists. Judge Meek of Alabama was next on the floor. The Judge is a gentleman whose height is variously estimated between six feet four and six feet eight inches. He is a lofty specimen, at any rate, and a very powerful public speaker. I do not mean powerful in the " able and eloquent " sense in which it has been used in Kentucky. It is re- markable, that in the speeches of the extreme Southern men in this Convention, we have not had any of that peculiar eloquence which we are accustomed to call "Kentucky," because, I suppose, it is a bad imitation of the style of Henry Clay. Washington, D. C, May 7th. The evening after the adjournment of the Convention, Charleston was herself again. But she had not been so dreadfully disturbed as she had anticipated. I was told by gentlemen of the city that they had several times ^een greater crowds about the hotels during racing week. The Charlestonians were rather inclined to say, as the contem- porary of Noah remarked of the deluge — not much of a shower after all. We left Charleston for Washington at eleven o'clock of the night of the last day of the Convention. The train was an enormous one for a Southern road, but would have been a trifling affair up North. There were many "distinguished" passengers — there being about an equal number of United States Senators and keepers of Faro tables, the lat- ter wearing decidedly the most costly apparel, having made the most money during their sojourn in the Palmetto City ; one gambling house realized twenty-four thousand dollars clear profits, I am told. The moon was up and the night beautiful, but there was nothing to see from the windows of the car but swamps and pine forests ; but it was the ground made classic by Marion, which was some comfort. The principal features in the journey to me were pine-trees along the road, and six changes of cars. PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES IN THE SENATE DOUGLAS, SEWAKD AND DAVIS. Washington, D. C, May 8th. * * * * * * * And here, coming from the cloak room on the Democratic side, is a queer little man, @»»b« head and duck legs — every body knows the 102 Little Giant — he loolvS conscious of being looked at ; and he is pointed out by a hundred hands, as he makes pretentious strides of about eighteen inches each toward his chair. Two or three of his admirers in the galli ry are disposed to applaud, but you hear merely the rattle of a single boot heel. He shakes hands with Clingnian of North Carolina, and chuckles with him over something that seems to be highly relished on both sides. The Little Giant wears his black hair long, but it is getting thin, and is not the great tangled mass we saw on his neck a few years ago. And, Little Giant ! it grows gray rapidly. Now he proceeds to twist himseK down in his chair as far as possible, and places his feet in bis desk; and thus his admirers in the gallery look upon the prodigious little man, squirming flat on his back. He don't feel very elastic this morning, that is evident. His mouth is closed up as if he was trying to bite a pin in two. He is not "all brain," as Senator Brown says. He requires a large vest — and large as he is about the chest, bis waist is becoming still more extensive. But he has an immense head — in height, and breadth and depth — in indications of solidity and force, you cannot find its equal in Washington. There is power under that massive brow, and resolution in that grim mouth ; no doubt at all of that. After he has fairly stretched himself and rolled over in his chair, like the trained lion in his cage, he becomes fidgety, and clasps and unclasps his stumpy hands, drums with his white fingers on the arms of his chair, rubs his nose, places bis hands affectionately on Clingman's knee, and seems at a loss for occupation. And now an individual appears on the other side of the House, who at first sight seems to be rather a comical person. He has the most singular head in all the assortment before you. It rises above the ears like a dome, and looks not unlike a straw stack in shape and color. His nose — a high, sharp beak — strikes out below the strawy hair that thatches the dome. Can you imagine a jay-bird with a sparrow-hawk's bill — the high tuft of feathers towering above the eyes — the keen hook below V There is a quaintness in that high head and high, sharp nose. You are anxious about the forehead. You are sure that must be a man of talent, and he must have a forehead. But to save you, you cannot tell which is hair and which is forehead. All is of the same parchment hue. You seem once in a while to catch a glimpse of a lofty mountain range of ideality, etc., according to the map>; of the phrenologists. And then you are not sure but it is hair. This tall and peaked and pallid head is perched upon a body that is active and restless. It moves about with school-boy elasticity. It walks with a slashing swagger. It strikes off with a rollicking gait from one point to another, and is in and out of the chamber by turns. There is an oddity in the dress in harmony with the general queerness of the thing. The pantaloons have a dingy oaken appearance. You would not be surprised to see breeches of that color in Oregon, but in the Senate-chamber they are without a parallel. And did you ever see 80 much tail to a frock-coat in your life ? Hardly. There is certainly a grotesque amount of coat tail. Now after making the round of the Republican side of the chamber about twice in ten minutes he offers from the chair (next the main aisle and most remote from the Vice- 103 President's) a petition, in a Vioarse croakinsj voice ; and when the Vice President recognizes "The Senator from New York," there is a stir i the galleries and a general stare at the gentleman with the top-knot a- beak and voice. He sits down, takes a pinch of snuff, and presen; j jou hear a vociferous sneezing, and the high-headed, straw-thatched gentleman is engaged upon his beak with a yellow silk handkerchief. And you remember that Seward takes snuff, and has ruined his voice by the nasty habit. In the llopublican corner of the Senate-chamber is a familiar face and form — you recognize the portly person and mas- sive intellectual developments, the thin frizzly hair and oval brow of Salmon P. Chase. Next him is Gov. Dennison. Seward comes up to them and seems to be guilty of some good thing, for they laugh vio- lently but quietly, and Seward rubs his oaken breeches with his hands and then gives his nose a tremendous tweak with the yellow handker- chief. He is wonderfully affable. He acts as though he would kiss a strange baby. Ah, he is a candidate for the Presidency. The crowd has filled the galleries of the Senate-chamber, expecting to hear Jeff. Davis's speech; and there are expectations that Douglas will reply. The hands of the Senate clock approach the points indica- ting the hour of one, and the people are weary of the monotonous read- ing of bills and petitions by title, and the presentations of the miscel- lany of deliberative bodies in audible tones. Ah ! here he comes. The crowd in the galleries give a buzz of relief, and every body tells his right hand man — "here he comes — that's Jeff. Davis." And can it be possible that he proposes to make a speech 1 You are surprised to see him walking. Why, that is the face of a corpse, the form of a skeleton. Look at the haggard, sunken, weary eye — the thin white •wrinkled lips clasped close upon the teeth in anguish. That is the mouth of a brave but impatient sufferer. See the ghastly white, hollow, bitterly puckered cheek, the high, sharp, cheek bone, the pale brow full of fine wrinkles, the grizzly hair, prematurely gray ; and see the thin, bloodless, bony, nervous hands! He deposits his documents upon his desk, and sinks into his chair as if incapable of rising. In a few minutes the Vice-President gives his desk a blow with his ivory hammer, calls for profound order, and states "that the Senator from Mississippi" has the floor. Davis rises with a smile. His speech was closely reasoned, and his words were well chosen. Once in a while he pleased his hearers by a happy period; but it was painfully evident that he was ill. 104 THE BALTIMORE NATIONAL CONSTITUTIONAL UNION CONVENTION. LIST OF DELEGATES, [From the Secretary's Roll.] PENNSYLVANIA. Senatorial Delegat-s — Hon. Joseph R. In- gersoU, Gen. Abraham Markley. AUcTJiates— Col. H. M. Fuller, Alfred How- ell. Congressional Districts — E. P. Molyneau, Charles D. Freeman, Wm. S. Elder, E. Har- per Jeffries, Wm. H. Slingluff, Capt Frank Smith, M. Mundy, Jno. A. Bauks, H. K. Kil- lian, Henry Keller. Merritt Abbott, Col. Jo- seph Paxton, J. W. Martein, Edw. Shippen, E. C. Pechin, J. D. Bayne, John A. Ettiiiger, Thomas Hayney, Patten, F. W. Gray- son, J. K. McDonald, Joseph H. Irwin, Gen. Wm. Shall, A. S. Redstreake, John H. Hicks. Alternates — Sam'l M. Lee, F. S. Altemue, John Slemer, John Bell Robinson, John S. Littell, T. W. Woodward, Wm. Graeff, H. C. Fondersmith, C. C. Lathrop, Wm. H. Pierce, Wm. Hillman, C. H. Breisler. Robert M. McClure, E. P. Borden, Col. W. Lee, Chas. Chadwick. NEW TOUK. At Large — Washington Hunt, Erastus Brooks, B. David Noren, Jonas C. Hearts. Alternates— GaoTse A. Halsey, John S. Van Rensalier. Districts— Alfred Doolon, Thos. R. Webb, J. DePeyster Ogden, Charles Beck, Horace H. Day, A. M. Bininger, Frederick A. Tall- madge, Clark Peck, Daniel R. St. John, Pe- ter Cantine, A. K. Chandler, George B. War- ren, James Kydd, Clarence Buck, James L. Smith, Orville Page, Charles B. Freeman, Edwin J. Brown, A. W. Northrup, Aaron Mitchell. Newton B. Lord, R. F. Stevens, Frederick C. Wagner, Jacob P. Faurotte, Chas. Coryell, Sain'l J. Wilkin, D. W. Tom- linson, Erastus S. Mack, G. A. Scroggs, Jas. W. Gerard, Harlc Haikes. Alternates-John P. Dodge, Alfred Wat- kins, Jonas Bartlett, William J. Bunce, Har- ri:*on Hall, Wm. H. Falconer, Wm. T. Jen- nings. John C. Ham, Fenlon Harbrouck. O. B Wheeler, William Ducr, Silas Swam, Ru- fus Ripley, W. D. Murphy, Wm. Burling, John Leveridgo, Louis Lillie, Abel .Smith, Harvey Smith, Jon. Muiin, W. M. Conkey, Daniel L. Couch. Alfred Wolkyu, A. G. Mynck, Daniel S. Baker, Anson Spenser, S. L. lluggin.s. H. H. Golf, M. F. Robertson, John H. White, John F. Morton, L. L. Piatt. TENNESSEE. W. G. Brownlow, Bailey Peyton, John S. Bricn. G. A. Henry. W. Brazleton, Robert CralRhead, John J. Craig, N. S. Brown, Edw. H. Ewiug, J. W. Richardson, A. J. Donelson, W. Homar, O. P. Temple, C. F. Trigg, R. Brabson, Joseph Pickett, Wm. Hickerson, S. H. Combs, Jordan Stokes, R. S. Northcott, A. S. Colzar, Henrv Cooper, L. J. Polk, J. C. Brown, W. P. Ken'drick, Jos. C. Starke, J.H. Callender, Clay Roberts, Joseph Barbien, J. M. Parker, T. A. R. Nelson, H. Maynard, Wm. Stokes, Robt. Hatton, Jas. M. Quarles, Wm. Etheriige, P. W. Maxcey. ILLINOIS. Gen. John Wilson, Chairman ; Geo. V. Byrd, Josiah Snow, John T. Stuart. Alfred Dutch, D. J. Snow, Alternate ; Eliphalet Wood ; D. W. Ford, Alternate. John J. Hayden, R. W. Thompson, James Montgomery, Lewis Howe, J. M. Havron, Dennis Gregg, A. H. Davidson, C. W. Prath- er, W. K. Edwards, John P. Early, J. M. Smith, J. W. Dawson, J. A. Bridgland, Thos. B. Long, H. M. Gram, Jas. L. Bradley. Delegates—Sol. Smith, William F. Switz' ler, Edward M. Samuel, John P. Bruce, Matthew H. Moore, Thos. A. Harris, John Scott, Joseph B. Terry, Adolphus Masser. Alternates — J. T. Clements, J. E. Barron, R. H. Porter, J. R. Hammond, J. B. Wil- hams. VIRGINIA. District Delegates — Samuel Watts, Travis H. Epes, Wm. Martin, Edward D. Christian, Wm. L. Goggin, Marmaduke Johnson, Geo. T. Yerby, E. T. Tayloe, Robert E. Scott, N. B. Meade, A. H.H.Stuart, James Witherow, Wm. J. Dickinson, George W. Summers. Waitman T. Willey. Alternates — Thomas L. Pretlow, Daniel Lyon, George Towns, W. W. Henry, Alex. Rives, Peyton G. Coleman, Robert Saunders, George W. Lewis, Henry W. Thomas, Wm. Andrews, Chas. H. Lewis, Wm. Copeland, Isaac J Leftwich, Arthur J. Boreman, James S. Wheat. Senatorial Dclrgatr.':— Gov. Allen Trimble, Hon. John Scott Harrison. Congressional Districts — N. G. Pendleton, Gilbert Kennedy, J. R. Nelson, A. J. Thorp, N. Mclleth, Dr. J. Way, Jos. N. Snyder, M. J. N. Glover, H. T. Barnes, C. L Garro, Jas. H Laws, J. T. Hyatt, Joel Funk, R. R. Sey- mour, R. H. Geary, Jas. H. Emminger, J. M. Bushfield, Amos Glover. 105 MISSISSIPPI. Hon. Wm. L Sharkey, Hon. J. W. C. Wat- son, Col. J. M. Patridge, E. F. McGehee, Hick Bell, R. II. Rivers, T. B Mosely, J. K. Yerger, Joseph Regan, W. H. Vasser, A. S. Mitchell. MASSACHUSETTS. Deleg'ates—llon. Jos. Grinnell, Col. James W. Leva, Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, Hon. S. L. Crocker, Leverett Salstonstall,Hon. Geo S. Hillard, Benj. L. Allen, Col. Winthrop Faulkner, Jonathan Johnson, Wm B. May, Hon. Luther V. Bell, Hon. Abel S. Lewis, Henry White. Alternates— "Frankhn Weston, N. F. Saf- ford, J. L. Baker, Hon. D. Warren. CONNECTICUT. Delegates at Large — Hon. Jno. A. Rockwell, Hon. Austin Baldwin. Alternates— E. M. Shelton, F. H. Whit- more. Districts — Hezekiah Huntingdon, Hon. Ezra Clarke, jr., H. C. Miles, C R. Alsopp, C. A. Lewis, Henry Burr, C. H. Leeds, D. W. Pierce, S. H. White, Wait M. Hawley, Wal- ter, H. Bacon, Lyman W. Cole, F. F Loomis, Hon. J. Dunham, R. E. Hitchcock, B. A. Hawley. S. R. Hanson, Jos. R. Brozier, Phineas Barnes, Samuel Taylor, Geo. E. B. Jackson, Sam'l P. Shaw, Geo. C. Getchell, Daniel L. Choate. NEW JERSEY. Senatorial Delegates — Hon. Jos. F. Ran- dolph, Hon Jas. Bishop. AUernates—Dr. Chas. G. McChesney, Eli- sha Day. Delegates— Jesse E. Peyton, CoL J. W. Al- len, Hon. Peter J. Clark, Samuel G. A. Van Lain, James A. Williamson. Alternates— Geo. M. Robertson, Jacob Her- bert, Hon. Abraham V. Schenck, A. W. Coul- ter, Peter S. Duryea. VERMONT. At Large — John Wheeler. Alternates — R. McKinley Ormsby, E. J. Phelps, A. Stebbins. Cangreisional Districts — J. M. Knox, M. Cottrill, Daniel Tilden. Alternates — ^Ab. Brown, Andrew Tracey. Jewitt. ARKANSAS. C. C. Danly, Q. K. Underwood, Jno. Brad- ley. Alternate — J. B. Keatts. GEORGIA. R. A. T, Ridley, Hon. Joshua Hill, Hon. Thomas Hardeman, jr., II Hopkins, J. A. L. Lee, James M. Calhoun, George W. Adair, J. R. Parrott, Thomas W. Walker, Isaiah Fairview, Z. H. Clark, Williard Boynton. DELAWARE. William Temple, Jos. P. Comogys, Jas. R. Loffland, Chas. Cullen, Wm. ElcLjooti, Laban L. Lyons, J. M. Barr, H. P. Blaudy, Geo. W. Karsner. Alternates — A. Stockley, Thomas Wallace, John M. Denning, Manlove Hays, Wm. Loflf- land, Wm. Wilson, L. G. Gooch, Dr. J. F. Wilson, Reese G. Wolf, Henry F. Fookes. KENTUCKY. State at Large — Leslie Coombs, Laban T. Moore, Gibson Mallory, James S. Jackson. Districts — J. D. M. Goodwin, Benjamin Berry, F. M. Bristow, S. G. Suddarth, B. B. Thompson, C. F. Burnham, John Barbee, J. K. Goodloe, Wm. R. Duncan, John W. Fin- nell. Alternates— Thos. A. Duke, S. G. Rhea, Blanton Duncan, A. H. Sneed, G. W. Fore- man, D. A. Sayre, W. C. Whittaker, S. F. Gano, J. J. Miller, Samuel Davis. ALABAMA. N. W. Shelly, Philip Morgan, J. Q. Dure. NORTH CAROLINA. State at Large— Hon. John M. Morehead, Hon. Richard S. Donnell, Hon. Nathaniel Bayden. Districts— I}a.vii A. Barnes, D. D. Ferebie, E. W. Jones, Richard H. Smith, Jos. B. Cherry, W. H. Clark, John H Haughton, W. Foy, Walter Dunn, Thomas Sparrow, E. C. Yellowby, Daniel L. Russell, E. J. Hale, Giles Leitch, A. N. Waddell, John G. Blue, R. McNair, Hon. R. B. Gilliam, Wm. H. Har- rison, Hon. E. G. Readc, John Manning, John M. Cloud, R. W. Wharton, Hon. J. M. Leach, T. C. Ham, Thos. S. Ashe, Rufus Barriuger, S. H. Walkup, Todd R. Caldwell, Wm. M. Shipp, A. S. Merrimon. TEXAS. A. Banning Norton, A. M. Gentry, B. H. Epperson, Evans. FIRST DAY. Baltimore, May 9tli. The hotels were filled up last night by the delegates and outsiders in attendance upon this Convention. There were crowds of good looking gentlemen, talking of the prospect of redeeming the country. The candidates under consideration are Botts of Virginia, Houston of Texas, Bell of Tennessee, Crittenden of Kentucky, Everett of Massachusetts, and McLean of Ohio. The chances seem to be in favor of John Bell. There is a disposition to use Mr. Everett as candidate for the Vice- 106 PrcsUlcnfy. The delegates seem to be in high spirits, and to be confi- dent of tlieir a])ility to make at least a powerful diversion. The general foolishness of the two great parties has given the third party unusual animation. The "Amorieah" element appears at once upon entering the hall, which is an old church, with galleries on three sides. The galleries are festooned with tri-colored drapery. There is a full-length painting of "Washington, surmounted by an American Eagle, and two great flags of our country, behind the President's chair. The south wall, above and below the galleries, is covered with an assortment of star-spangled ban- ners. The general appearance is patriotic as the Times office, on Washington's birth-day — as described on one occasion, four days in advance. As the delegates pressed in, the galleries were on the look-out for lions, and applauded in the old style of the "spreads," whenever a "distinguished" gentleman could be made out. Crittenden had quite an ovation. When the hour arrived for calling the Convention to order, Mr. Crittenden advanced upon the platform and took the chair. There was a vociferous outburst of applause. Some one called for "Three cheers for John J. Crittenden." They were given as only the "spreads" can give them. "Three more" were called for and given; and then "three more," wild and shrill, hats and handkerchiefs waving, and great delight appearing in every countenance. Crittenden bowed until he was tired, and tlien took his seat. "When the noise subsided, we had a prayer, a very fair pious political speech. It was written out and read from manuscript. The difficulty with it was as to whom it was addressed — to the Lord or the Convention. It was very eloquent and well delivered. Mr. Crittenden, as chairman of the National Constitutional Union Convention, called the Convention to order. A speech was expected from him, but he only said : "It has been made my duty, gentlemen, as chairman of the Execu- tive committee of the Constitutional party, to perform the honored task of calling this Convention to order, and I will discharge the duty with as much brevity as I can. I hesitated, and was a little diffident about the propriety of my occupying your attention for a single moment on thus calling to order this Convention. You are, in yourselves, the great body that represents the party of the whole country. I will, therefore, only perform the duty without an unnecessary word. "1 would recomnieiul, in the first place, the appointment of a tempo- rary chairman ; and I nominate, in accordance with an arrangement which I understood had to some degree been made before, Washington Hunt, former Governor of the State of New York, as your temporary chairman." [Api)lause.] Mr. Hunt was unanimously elected temporary chairman. Mr. Hunt made a very fair speech, embodying many good sentiments, and glitter- ing with tlie usual generalities about peace, concord, fraternity, love, good will, no North, no South, etc. He referred to the disruption of the Dctuocratic party, wrecked on the mysteries of territorial sovereignty. 107 The Convention insisted on applauding nearly every sentence, and several times refused to let liiiii finish a sentence. It was worse than the applause given by an Irish audience at an Arclibishop's lecture. The Americans must never laugh at the Irish for their irrepresssble dis- position to ajjplaud. As the committee on Permanent Officers was being appointed, nearly every name received a round of applause. During the first hour and a half of the session, I presunie at least one hundred rounds of applause were were given, and the more the "spreads" applauded, the greater became their zeal. I have stated, in letters from Charleston, I believe, that the Douglas men were the most noisy fellows in the world, in proportion to their dimensions. 1 take it back. The " Plugs" can beat them at their own game. The committee on Permanent Officers, consisting of one from each State, was constituted as follows: Alabama — N. W. Shelley. Mississippi — John K. Ycrger. Arkansas— C. C. Danley. Missouri — Sol Smith. Connecticut — Hon. John A. Rockwell. New Hampshire — Culituruia — New York — B. Davis Noxon. Delaware — Wm. Temple. New Jersey — J. W. Allen, riorida — North Carolina — Nathaniel Boydcn. Georgia — J. S. Fannin. Ohio — Allen Trimble. Indiana — John G. Hcydon. Oregon — Illinois — John Wilson. Pennsylvania — Joseph Paxton. Iowa — Rhode Island — Kentucky — John W. Finnell. South Carolina — Louisiana— Texas — Maine — C. B. Jackson. Tennessee^A. J. Donelson. Massachusetts — L. V. Bell. Vermont — John Wlieelor. Michigan — Virginia — Wm. L. Goggin. Minnesota — T. J. Barrett. Wisconsin- Maryland — Thomas Swann. No delegates appearing from the States of California, Florida, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, New Hampshire, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina and Wisconsin. Several of the Southern States are very strongly represented here. Virginia and Tennessee have exceedingly able delegations on the floor. A great portion of the delegates are of the "eminently respectable" class of gentlemen — and most of them are somewhat stale in politics. The Convention took a recess until four o'clock in the afternoon, when A. J. Donelson, from the committee on Organization, reported the following names for permanent officers of the Convention : PRESIDENT. W^ASHINGTON HUNT, of New York. VICE-PRESIDENTS. S. R. Jackson, Maine. James Calhoun. Georgia. R. M. Ormsley, Vermont. J. J. Dew, Alabama. Marshall P. Wilder, Massachusetts. Richard W. Thompson, Indiana. Austin Baldwin, Connecticut. David A. Sayer, Kentucky. Frederick A. Tallmadge, New York. Edward F. McGehee, Mississippi. Peter J. Clark, New Jersey. Q. K. Underwood, Arkansas. Jos. R. Ingersoll. Pennsylvania. Gustavus Henry, Tennessee.. Dennis Claude. Maryland. J. Scott Harrison. Ohio. Alex. H. H. Stuart, "Virginia. Jos. P. Comegys, Delaware. Robert B. Gillian, North Carolina. 108 Secretauies — S. C. Long, Maryland ; A. Payton. New Jersey: Ezra Clark, Coiiaccticut ; Snow, Illinois ; L. Saltonstall, Massachusetts ; John W. Lynn, Massachusetts; Samuel Davis, Kentucky ; J.P.Early. Indiana; AdolphusMus- ser, Maine ; Richard Bell, Mississippi ; John H. Callender, Tennessee. The report was unanimously adopted. Mr. Hunt made another speech, and several other gentlemen followed " ably and eloquently." Mr. Coombs of Kentucky, the subject of platforms being introduced, made a hit as follows : So deeply have I been impressed with the necessity of a platform to a great political party, that I have taken upon myself the labor of pre- paring three [laughter], one for the harmonious Democracy, who have lately agreed together so beautifully at Charleston [laughter] ; one for the " irrepressible conflict " gentlemen, who are about to assemble at Chicago, and another for the National Unionists now before jsnd around me. [Laugbter]. And as all are brief and perfectly intelligible, I shall take the liberty here to repeat them. First, for the harmonious Democracy ; the Virginia and Kentucky res- olutions of 1798-9 [laughter], without preamble or comment, followed by two upon the slave question, one in favor of excluding slavery from the Territoiies of the United States, and the other in favor of forcing it into them [applause] ; both to be adopted unanimously by the Conven- tion under the previous question, and no questions asked afterward. [Laughter]. For the " irrepressible conflict" philanthropists about to assemble at Chicago, I suggest the blue laws of Connecticut [laughter] ; with a slight modification upon two points ; first in reference to the right of a man to kiss his wife on Sunday, and the second in reference to burning witches, providing that the young wife shall have the privilege to be kissed and the old witches to be burned. [Great applause.] In reference to this Convention I have provided a still shorter plat- form — The Constitution of the United States as it is [" Good ! good ! " and applause] ; the Constitution as it is, and the Union under it now and forever. [Great applause.] I will not speak in reference to the first at large, but I venture to say that it will be as intelligible hereaf- ter to the wide-spread Democracy, as it has been heretofore ; and being; thus intelligible, I venture to stake all I am worth — not very much-^ that not one in five hundred have read those resolutions, and not one in five hundred who have read them understand them. In reference ot our platform — the Constitution as it is — the Legisla- tive, Judicial and Executive departments, each in its separate depart- ment supreme. I ti)ink that will be platform enough for the Union party to stand upon [applause] — the Congress of the United States to enact the laws, the Judicial department to interpret, and the F>xecutive to have them executed. This is all we want ; that is all we need. Were I an assemblage of Christians about to establish a creed for Christians, do you think I would take dipping or sprinkling? I would take the Bible as it is, leaving all to construe it, they being responsible for its construction. [Immense applause, and three cheers for Mr, Coombs, the Convention rising in their places.] 109 Erastus Brooks said : Sir, we misjudge the people of the country, if any of us suppose that they an- nut heart-sick and head-sick of what are called, technically, party platforms. We know it ; what we have seen at Charleston is but illustrating the fable of Saturn, for they literally devoured their own progeny. [Applause]. What we see elsewhere in regard to the great Republican party is equally true — t^y are composed in one State of various classes of men ; a conservative class in favor of the Fugitive Slave law and the Constitution of the United States, and that class ad- dresses themselves to the commercial community and to the manufac- turing community. There is another class of men who follow in the wake of these, leaving the city and going into the rural districts, and there they preach as the great architect of that party preached at Cleve- land, for a higher law than the Constitution of the United States. A committee on Resolutions and Business was constituted as follows : Alabama — A. F. Alexander. Arkansas — M. S. Keniiard. Couuecticut — Austin Baldwin. Delaware — Chas. F. Cullon. Georgia — Hon. Joshua Hill. India'na — Iloti. R. W. Thompson. IHiuois — John Wilson. Kentucky— C. F. Bm-nham. Maine — George E. B. Jackson. Massachusetts — Abial S. Lewis. Minnesota — T. J. Barrett. Maryland — George A. Pearrie. Mississippi — John W. C. Watson. Missouri — Thomas A. HaiTJs. New York — Hon. Erastus Bi'ooks. Now Jersey — Joseph F. Randolph. North Carolina — Richard S. Donald. Ohio— N. G. Pendleton. Pennsylvania — Hon. Jos. R. lugersoU. Texas — A. B. Norton. Tennessee — Hon. Bailie Peyton. Yermont — John Wheehr. Virginia — Robert E. Scott. SPIRIT OF THE FIRST DAY S PROCEEDINGS. Baltimore May 9th (at night). The Convention organized in this city to-day does not furnish a very animating theme. Not that it was not animated in itself. There were the same furious demonstrations of enthusiasm that we had occasion to re- mark in the Fillmore performances in 1856. A hundred of the Fill- more men would make more noise than three times as many Democrats or ten times the number of Republicans. There is too much unanimity here, however, to be interesting. Every body is eminently respectable, intensely virtuous, devotedly patriotic, and fully resolved to save the country. They propose to accomplish that political salvation so devout- ly to be wished, by ignoring all the rugged issues of the day. The ex- pression against platforms was universal and enthusiastic. Instead of proceeding to make a platform, the worthies here in Convention assem- bled all fell to abusing platforms. There was probably as much discre- tion as virtue in this, for the delegates would find it impossible to agree on an expression of principles formally laid down, and the intention is, to make the canvass simply upon an assumption that this body repre- sents the " Conservative American Constitutional Union element." What this element proposes to do, can be stated in one way in the South and another way in the North, and thus our excellent friends will have all the advantages of an ambiguous platform, and will not encoun- ter any of the disabilities attendant upon a written standard of ortho- ) 110 doxy, flavor Swann stated that, when John J. Crittenden took the stand, he saw platform enovigh for him, and the " plugs " who were in the galleries, cheered him tremendously. I have heard a great deal of virtuous twaddle in public speeches within a few weeks, but the essence of the article was uncorked to-day. Erastus Brooks gave his idea of a plat- form. It was the Constitution and laws. The Constitution as inter- preted by the constituted authorities — the highest judicial authorities — and the enforcement of the laws. VNow, Erastus is the editor of the New Y^ork Express, and therefore a great man. He was consequently applauded throughout witii even unusual vigor. He is in favor of the nomination of Gen. Sam. Houston, a rather good old soul, as we all know, but the most shallow of the shallow politicians who have been engaged for some years in attending to the affairs of our beloved coun- try. He probably has a very brilliant understanding of that Constitu- tion and law which is to be the platform. His appreciation of and respect for the constituted authorities was exemplified in his recent pro- position to invade Mexico. While sneeches were beino; made, the chair announced that the delegation from Texas was at the door. [Tre- mendous applause.] The chair directed the door-keeper to admit the delegation from Texas. [Tremendous applause.] The delegation from Texas was admitted. [More tremendous applause.] The delegation, headed by a man with a beard half a yard long, who w'as dressed in home-spun and bore a great buck-horn-handle cane, made its way to a front seat, amid " tremendous applause." An officious delegate said that the long-haired man had agreed at one time not to have his hair cut until Hency Clay was elected President. [Still more tremendous applause.] v During both sessions of the Convention this day, every speech was received in this " tremendous " style. The moment a speaker would say Constitution ; law ; Union ; American ; conservative element ; glorious victory ; our fathers ; our flag; our country ; or any thing of the sort, he had to pause for some time, until ihc. general rapture would discharge itself by stamping, clapping hands, rattling canes, etc., etc. I have likened the enthusia-sm to that of an Irish audience at an archbishop's lecture. It was so, with some additional peculiarities of extravagance. The noise and confusion of applause became a disgust- ing bore to all but the patriotic "plugs." If I had not known otherwise, I should have thought sometimes that the incessant rage of approbation was factious; but the "plugs" by whom the galleries were loaded, meant only to emit their pent-up ec- stasy. So vivid were their perceptions of patriotic sentiments, that they could not in dozens of cases await the conclusion of a sentence, before shouting and stamping like Yahoos on a spree. When a speaker would put off something about the Constitution and laws of our beloved coun- try, he would be obliged to suspend his remarks, until the tempest of approbation subsided. And if ho should, in order to make himself in- tidligiblo, so far as he might, commence the broken sentence over again, ten to one, when he arrived at the patriotic point, where the fracture commenced, the storm would break out again, with redoubled fury. As a matter of necessity, a committee to report business was constituted Ill It was necessary to present some business to tlie Convention. About every other committee man's name was received witli outrageous yells of admiration from the galleries, and stamping so desperate that the mortar rattled down, and there were appreiiensions that the galleries themselves might tumble under the weight of rampant patriotism heaped into them. It is presumed that a nomination will take place to-morrow, and that several cheers will go up, and that a determination to elect the nominee and save our sweet country, will be expressed by a large number of "able and eloquent" gentlemen, who will cause the skies to be rent with roars of American enthusiasm. The turn out of delegates is larger than was expected. I believe there are really as many people in attendance here, as there were at Charleston. The hotels are full, and the narrow Baltimorean sidewalks can hardly contain the groups of exuberant and vociferous patriots. John Bell stock was high to-day, and is tolerably well high up yet, but there are many who are anxious to avail themselves of the battle of San Jacinto. The persuasion that presses John Bell is, that he is strong in the North. But nearly every body ought to know, that he could not carry a single Northern State. ^The pressure for Houston is \ upon the presumption that he is powerful in the South. I am very seriously told that he could sweep every State in the South with perfect ease, and New York also, thereby securing his election in the Electoral College. And, I am further informed, that if by some unforeseen acci- dent or most illogical turn of affairs, he should not be triumphantly elected according to the first form made and provided by the Constitu- tion, and the election should be thrown into Congress, the Republicans there would prevent the election of an ultra-Southern man by the Senate, by joining in the House with the men who have taken the Con.stitution, Union, and salvation of the country into special consider- ation; and by elevating their champion to the Presidency, give the nation another lease of life. I have been obliged to say to some of our Constitution-loving friends, that I did not think the nominee of this Convention, even with the naked Constitution for a platform, would be certain to carry the State of Ohio. I have gone so far as to indicate an apprehension that the chances were, the electoral vote of the State would be thrown for somebody else. SECOND DAY. Baltimore, May 8th. "When the President of the Convention, Washington Hunt, Esq., appeared upon the platform this morning he was received with the usual joyous cries and stamping. The Convention being called to order, we had a fervent prayer for the Union. The minister did not, like his brethren in some cases at Charleston, pray directly for the triumph of the ticket that might be put forward. The Union being prayed for, however, it was inferred that as this body had the confederacy in charge, 112 the petition for the preservation of the Union included an invocation for the success of the Convention's nominees before the people. The old church used by the Convention is very much crowded this morning. The ladies' gallery is well filled ; but there is hardly a fair representation of that female loveliness, for which this city has a just celebrity. There are many distinguished men on the floor, but they are mostly " venerable men," who have come down to us from a former generation of politicians, and whose retirement from the busy scenes of public life have beeo rather involuntary than otherwise, and whose disgust at polit- ical trickery may perhaps in part be attributed to the failure of the popu- lace to appreciate their abilities and virtues. The Hun. Jos. R. IngersoU made the report of the Business commit- tee. He said of the committeemen : They met with entire cordiality : they proceeded with entire good feeling, and they terminated their proceedings with great unanimity, and I may say with patriotism. [Applause.] I would not venture to present as an example at all to a great and highly respectable body like this the feeling and the cou^feous deportment of the gentlemen with whom I had the pleasure to sit as chairman last evening; but I would say that a more entirely respectable set of men — in manner, appear- ance, and in result — I never saw. [Applause.] THE PLATFORM. Whereas, experience has tlemonstrated that platforms adopted by the parti- san Conventions of the country have had the etfect to mislead and deceive the people, and at the same time to widen the political divisions of the country, by the ci'eation and encouragement of geographical and sectional parties; there- fore Rcaolvcd. That it is both the part of patriotism and of duty to recognize no political principles, other than TUE CoNSTrrUTION OP THE COTJNTKT, The Umox of the Stater and The Enforcement of the tLaws ; (Loud and prolonged cheering.) and that, as the representatives of the Constitutional Union men of the country iu National Convention assembled, we here pledge ourselves to maintain, pro- tect, and defend, separately and unitedly, those great principles of public lib- erty and national safety, against all enemies, at home and abroad, believing that thereby peace may once more be restored to the country, and the just rights of the people, and of the States re-established, and the Government again placed in that condition of justice, fraternity and equality, which, under the example and constitution of our fathers, has solemnly bound every citizen of the United hftates to maintain, "a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranf|uillity, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity." [Prolonged cheers.] Mr. IngersoU in making this report was cheered when he took the «tand, cheered when he opened his mouth, given nine cheers when he .said the committee had with entire unanimity and surprising enthusiasm agreed that there should be no formal platform. When the declaration of principles was read, there was more cheering. The opening proceed- ings were, in fact, a long yell, partially subsiding at intervals, so that a few remarks could be interpolated. The declaration of principles was 113 passed unanimously, with a prnpor amount of the article of enflinsiam. But the pt'i-fuct harmony which had thus far prevailed, was now dis- turbed. There was a distressingly earnest and dreailfully protr;icted discussion, on the report as to the process of business, which was pre- scribed in the following resolutions : Resolved, That each State shall be entitled to the same number of votes in this Convention as its electoral vote, and that each delegation shall, for itself, dotermiiie the manner in which its vote shall Vje cast. Resolved, That in luiUoting for President and Vice-President, ballots shall be taken until the candidate nominated shall receive a majerity of all Ihe votes cast ; that the candidate for President shall first be balloted for and selected, and then the candidate for Vice-President. There was an impression somewhere that there was a disposition in the various States to coerce the minorities, and out of this the trou- ble grew. The Convention got itself into a very uncomfortable condition of con- fusion, and about twenty resolutions were heaped upon each other. The "gallant and gifted Goggin," of Virginia, at last offered a resolu- tion, which brought the Convention out of tribulation and the rapids of controversy into calm and deep water. It was as follows : Resolved, That the chairman of each delegation shall cast the vote of his State for each delegate, in such way as he may be instructed by the delegate entitled to vote, and when there is not a full ivpi eseulation from any 8tate, then the majority of such delegation shall decide how the vote of the district UJirepre- sented shall be cast ; and where there be two delegates who cannot agree, each of said delegates shall be entitled to one-half a vote. This was adopted. At half past eleven, the nomination of a candidate for the Presidency was in order. Some time was spent by the various State delegations, in preparing their votes, and there was no little sensation in the hall. The Maryland delegation being unable to get the proper construction of the Goiririn resolution through its head witliout a surgical operation, re- tired for consultation, and to have the necessary operation peitunned. A delegate from 3Iinnesota had a delicacy. He was the only man from that State, and had not been appointed a delegate. He was a substi- tute, consequently he did not feel like representing the State. The voice of the Convention overcame his modesty. Ttie names most loud- ly cheered as the balloting proceeded were those of John Bell and Ed- ward Everett. Everett received a long and loud clamor, and the ladies waved their handkerchiefs. When the vote of Texas was called for, her hairy delegate got up and mentioned the battle of San Jacinto, and tried to give peculiar emphasis to the Sam part of Houston's name. But it did not take wonderfully. The first ballot resulted as follows : If4 FIRST BALLOT. States. > o o d -a s 'So bo S a d 03 pq on a) > 9 3 1 2.', 3" 1 Delaware 3 10 5i 5?, 12 8 13 .... \ 7^ 9 1 28 1 4 2 2 2 10 Ohio . . • • 5 9 4 11 4 2 2 17J 2 12 5 2 7 13 Total 25 57 68| 28 3 22 21 13 The President announced the result as follows : Whole number of votes cast 254 Necessary to a choice 128 Of which John Bell of Teaaessee received 68^ Sam. Ilouston of Texas 57 John J. Crittenden 28 Edward Everett 25 Wm. A. Graham 22 John McLean 21 Wm. C. Rives 13 John M. BottB 9^ Wra. L. Sharkey 7 Wm. L. Goggin 3 As the second ballot was being taken it became apparent that the friends of John Bell were in the ascendant. As the vote of New York was being taken, Jas. W. Garrard, of that State, gave his political biography. He stated that he had been in the habit of standing up in favor of the South. He was a Northern man with Northern principles. Northern conservative principles were the game as Southern conservative principles. He mentioned that he had several times talked like a prophet. He had something to say of Washington, the American Eagle, the Washington monument, the Battle monument, and striking upon expediency, availability, etc., 115 wound up with a screech for Sara. Plouston, appealing in behalf of the Dutch and Irish of New York. He declared that what was wanted was a Southern Democrat to sweep up the votes. Pendleton of Ohio declared that Ohio wanted a Southern Whig. This expression was received with an uproar of approbation, as it was understood to be a stroke for John Bell. So it was Southern Whig against Southern Democrat. Houston's long-haired friend from Texas, made a wild speech for him. He (long hair) was an old friend of Henry Clay — loved, admired, revered him, and followed him through his days of adversity. But Sam. Houston was the man. It was now clear, however, that the flood was for John Bell. When the State of Virginia was called, Mr. Summers of Virginia stated that the delegation asked to be allowed a few moments for con- sultation, before announcing her vote. The excitement was intense throughout the Convention, as upon the vote which Virginia might give, would depend the nomination of Hon. John Bell of Tennessee upon this ballot, as he then lacked but three votes of a majority of all the electoral votes represented in the Con- vention. The ballot, as it then stood, was as follows : SECOND BALLOT. States. 3 O S OS XI S- o 0) O c •r- 6 a a o 9 4 31 3 3 .... 3?, 6' 6i Kentucky 4 12 1" i 5^ ^^ 8 12 1 7 1 29 1 1 6 4 5 New Jersey 1 1 10 Ohio 18 19 5 7 4 1 Texas 12 5 Total 125 68 18i ^ dI H 1 Mr. Summers, on the part of the Virginia delegation, announced that 116 ho harl hoen instrnctod to announce that, they oast 13 votes for John Bell of Tennessee, and 2 votes for John Minor Botts. This ^Mve Bell a majority, and there was a great clamor of applause, a tearinj^ roar of cheers, a violent stamping — B 'lUam broki n loose. '^'he Convention now went through the formality of changing votes, so as to make the nomination unanimous. As State after State changed its vote, there were the usual demonstrations of delight, by which this Convention has been distinguished above all other caucuses ever heard of. Leslie Coombs, in changmg the vote of Kentucky, paid a high com- pliment to Gen. Sam. Houston, and went over to Bell. Coombs said since the death of Clay, he had not been in active political life ; but since the tocsin of disunion had been sounded North and South, he had thought it his duty to come up out of his pfilitical grave, and join the throng of the living, and enter into the campaign for the Union. There was a great deal said of the great Bell that was to toll the knell of the Democratic party. Several gentlemen were quite capti- vated by their ability to pun on the name of the '"favorite son of Ten- nessee," and a delegate from Pennsylvania propi)sed to furnish the bell- metal necessary for the enormous National Bell which was to be sound- ed over the Union. And so on for quantity. While New York was changing her vote, there was a crash somewhere, and it suddenly occurred to every body that the galleries, which were enormously loaded, were giving way. There was a tremendous rush of terrified men for the doors and windows. By great efforts of those who were too far from tho windows to get out, and tho-e who were in a position, and cool enough to see that there was no danger, the panic was subdued. - When it was discovered that there was no peril, the crowd stared at each other, with white faces, and laughed. The changing of votes was so tedious, that it became an almost insufferable bore. It was over with at last, however. Erastus Brooks moved to make the nomination unanimous, and the chairman put the question whether that should be done. Thereupon there was a yell tiiat was called unanimous. Then the chairman arose to perform the proudest duty of his life. It was almost too liig for him. But he struggled with it and triumphed, and he proclaimed that John Bell was the unanimous choice of that Convention. M;ijor G. A. Ilenry?^of Tennessee, grandson of Patrick Henry, responded in behalf of his State. He spoke in glowing terms of John Bell, whose whole record he declared to be sound. No sectional sen- timent ever soiled the paper on which his speeches were written. He proceeded to make a Union speech. It would not do to allow the Union to bo dissolved. He, for one, could not stand by and per- mit it. The revolutionary blood in his veins forbade him to be passive on such an occasion. A voice here cried out — 'A grandson of Pa- trick Henry!" There was at once a sensation. Tliiee cheers and three more were given, and Washington Hunt sprang up, his eyes streaming tears, and grasped his hand. JMr. Henry is a tall, well-formed gentleman, with tine pleasant face, bald head, and fringe of silvery white buir about the ears. Tl^e old^man had really inherited sorue 117 of til e powers as an orator of bis illustrious ancestcir, and made tlie speech of the Convention. "We are Uninn people; shall we throw this Union away? ITow can we avoid the responsibility of standinj^ up to defend it? With what face couhl we n)eet the wonderinc; nations, if hy strife and hate and blinded councils, and the Masted sway of deniaj^ogues accursed, we throw away the richest heritage that God ever gave to man, blot out our fair escutcheon to all coming time, deliver down our names to be accursed, teach desyjots that freedom is but a dream, quench its fair light wherever it may dawn, and bid the lovers of mankind despair? If such must be our country's early doom; if all her pride, her power, her cherished hopes, our stripes, our stars, our heritage of glory, and the bright names we have taught our children to revere — if all must end in this, never let free man meet free man again, and greet him with length of years. " 'An early tomb, ■^hprein to esoapp the liiss and scorn Of ;ill raankiud, were sure a better doom.' " Tear down your flag; burn your Capitol ; dismiss your navy; dis- band your army; let our commerce rot; overturn all your monuments, here in Biiltimore and everywhere else; give to the flames the once loved record of our father's deeds; scatter the sacred dust of Washing- ton ['Never,' 'never,'], teach your boys to forget his name, and never let the pilgrim's foot tread the consecrated groves of Mount Vernon. Can we surrender all these bright and glorious hopes? If we can, then we of the Union party are the most recreant of all man- kind, and the curses of all time ■will cling upon us like the shirt of Nessus. " His description of the return of delegates from Charleston was rich. He said : "As I was coming on here, the other day, I saw some of the dele- gates returning from Charleston, and I declare to you that I never saw a more broken down and desponding set. [Laughter.] They were tired, sleepy, and disheartened ; and I must say without any figure of speech, they were ' unwashed.' [Eenewed laughter and applause.] I said to them, ' Gentlemen, what upon earth is the matter with you now? What has hayipcned to you?' 'Oh!' says one man, 'our national Democracy is broken up, and the lampntations of tlie whole world, I reckon, will attend it.' ' Oh 1 yes,' said I, ' I shed oceans of tears over the result.' [Laughter.] They looked to me like the broken columns of Napoleon's army when they returned di.-^fcomtited from Moscow. " Here and there I caught one and asked him what occurred down there. 'Why,' said one, 'I have not slept a wink for fmr nights.' [Laughter.] I said to one, who I thought treated me a little scurvily about it, ' Why, perhaps a little good brandy would cheer you up.' 'No,' said he, 'even burnt brandy wouldn't save me now.' [Renewed laughter.] Gentlemen, upon my honor, I expect every one of them to die soon, and in eveiy paper I read I look to see the death of some of the Charleston members." 118 The old man was in good earnest, and his effort was immensely acceptable. In truth, I have seldom heard a speech better calculated to arouse popular fceUng. When he closed he was given about twenty- five cheers, and the Convention being in the humor for talk rather than business, the Hon. W. L. Sharkey of Mississippi was called upon for a speech, at the conclusion of which the Convention took a recess. Upon reassembling, there was an eagerness on the part of nearly all the delegations to put forward for nomination for the second place on the ticket, the name of the Hon. Edward Everett. Only one other name was proposed. Col. Finnell of Kentucky nominated the chair- man of the Convention, Washington Hunt, who declined to allow the use of his name, in a speech entirely too long and rather awkward. After about twenty speeches, which filled up three hours, and such stamping and shouting as was absolutely deafening, the nomination of Everett was made by acclamation. The speech of this part of the performance was made by the Hon. Geo. S. Hillard, one of the editors of the Boston Courier. Mr. Hil- lard's effort was exceedingly graceful, and well worded, and the ladies honored him by throwing bouquets upon the platform. He responded by telling them that unfortunately the ladies of Massachusetts were llepublicans almost to a man. The following is the passage of his speech : "Now, gentlemen of the Convention, you have this day done a good and glorious work. It will send a thrill of joy and hope all over the land. I know well the feeling which will be awakened in New Eng- land. It would be felt there like the breeze from the sea after a day of exhausted heat ; like as a man at the poles who is languishing after the protracted darkness of an arctic winter feels, when he sees the first ruddy spark which tells him that the sprino; and summer is coming, so shall we at the North welcome the intelligence of this Convention. [Applause.] As the greater part of creation waiteth for the manifes- tation of the Son of God, so all over the land will the true and patriotic citizens of America rise up and call you blessed. As you go home you will be received with applause, with the waving of handkerchiefs, the clapping of hands, and eyes sparkling with joy and triumph. As the English poet has said upon a great occasion — " ' Men met each other with erected look ; The steps were highest whicli they took ; yriends to congratulate their f'rieuds made haste, Aud long inveterate foes saluted as they passed.' When we go back to Massachusetts, and to New England, all over our hills and valleys which are but just beginning to feel the genial touch of spring, wliat a thrill of joy and exultation will ring along our cities, our towns, our villages, our solitary farm-houses, which nestle in the hollows of the hills! It will be so everywhere. [Applause.] ' How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring tidings of peace.' How beautiful, beautiful upon the mountains, are the feet of those who reconcile sectional discord ; that bring together the North and the South and the West, and bind them together in the unity of I m the spirit of the land of peace !" [Cries of " Good," " good," and applause] On motion of Mr. Lathrop of Pennsylvania, the following persons were constituted a National Central Executive Union committee ; Anthony Kennedy, of Maryland. J. B. St. John, of New York. A. R. Boteler, of Virginia. R. W. Thompson, of Indiana. Joshua Hill, of Georgia. John Wilson, of Illinois. John A. Campbell, of North Carolina. James Bishop, of New Jersey. Robert Mallory, of Kentucky. John A. Rockwell, of Connecticut. Thos. A. R. Nelson, of Tennessee. Marshal P. Wilder, of Massachusetts. Henry M. Fuller, of Pennsylvania. William Temple, of Delaware. Several gentlemen spoke of Mr. Everett as the "Ladies' candidate." and the ladies v?ere especially called upon to persuade their husbands and sweethearts to vote for him. They were frequently informed that they must remember how assiduously he had labored for them in the Mount Vernon business; while the rest of mankind were informed that while engaged in that business he had become wonderfully imbued with the spirit of Washington. Among the glowing compliments paid Mr. Everett was the following, by Mr. Watson of Mississippi : " I have made the remark again and again, that Edward Everett was at this moment better known throughout the length and breadth of this land than any other living being at this good hour. [Applause.] " I have been told that every man was familiar with his name. I say that not only every man, but every lady is familiar with his name ; and not only every lady, but every child is familiar with his name ; and every school-boy has recited his glowing eloquence again and again. You may take his record up from first to last, and see his patriotism in his antecedents. His ability is matchless, and above all, his virtue is fearless in every sense of the word. [Applause.] That man has studied the character of Washington, and in his studying, he has drawn in an inspiration that has so purified and elevated his patriotism that it is enough of itself to save the Union, were there no other embodiment of patriotism within our limits." [Applause.] It was remarkable, and I shall not say it was not a refreshing fact, that the Covention avoided altogether the discussion of the slavery ques- tion. It was only referred to by indirection. Hon. Neil S. Brown of Tennessee thanked Grod that he had at last found a Convention in which the "nigger" was not the sole subject of consideration. Not a word was said from first to last about the question of slavery in the Territo- ries, or the execution of the Fugitive Slave law, and old John Brown was only referred to a couple of times. And there was nothing said of Americanism — not a word. The Hon. Erastus Brooks declared that the Convention was of a new party, a party only six months old, and that all old party afiiliations were sub- merged. The whole talk was of the Constitution, the Union and the laws, of harmony, fraternity, compromise, conciliation, peace, good will, common glory, national brotherhood, preservation of the confederacy. And of all these things it seemed to be understood the Convention had a monopoly. The Constitution, the Union, and peace between the sec- 120 tinns would appear from the record of proceedings to he it> (he exclu- sive care of, and tbe peculiar institutions of, the no-party and no-platforo* gen'letnon here assenihlcd. The Ciinveiition adj turned in high spirits. At niglit a ratideaiion meeting was held in Monument square. An extraordinarily large and elaborate stage was erected. There was a platform for the speakers and musicians. Upon each flank of this was a tower near thirty feet in height, each tower bearing a flag-staff from ■which the celebrated flag of our country streamed. In front of one of the towers was a likeness of Washington, and Chiy adorned the other. On one tower appeared the name of John Bell, on the other that of Edward Everett. An arch spanned the platform, inscribed, " The Union, t/ie Constitution, and the Enforcement of the Laws" Cir- cling above the inscription were the coats of arms of the States. The centre of the arch was intended for the American Eagle. But a suita- ble bird could not be procured to perch in that exalted place, and a few small flags were substituted. The whole thing was decorated by lamps, and presented an exceedingly brilliant appearance. I imagine that nothing more complete in design, or elaborate in execution, was ever ia the United States constructed to serve a similar purpose. THE CHICAGO CONVENTION. Chicago, May 15. Leaving Baltimore in a flood we found the West afflicted with a drouth. At one end of the journey, there was a torrent tearing down every ra- vine ; at the otlier there was a fog of dust all along the road. The incidents of the trip were a land-slide on the Pennsylvania Cen- tral, and tbe unpleasantness of being behind time to the extent of sis hours on the Pittslmrgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago. Tbe detention was occasioned by the fact of the train consisting of thirteen cars full of " irrepressibles." I regret to say that most of the company were " un- sound," and rather disposed to boast of that fact. The difference between the country passed over between I^altimore and Chicago, and that between Louisville and Baltimore, by way of Charleston, is greatly in favor of the former. I have not had any dis- po.sifion to speak in disparaging terms of the Southern country, but it is the plain truth that the country visible along the road from Baltimore to Ilarrisburg alone, is worth more by far than all that can be seen from Charleston t(Tthe Potomac. In the South few attempts have been made to cultivate any lands other th.tn those most favorably situated, and mos* rich, liut in Pennsylvania, free labor kas made not only the valleys bloom, but the hill-tops are radiant with clover and wheat. And there 121 are innny other tliinj^s that rush upon the sij^ht in tlie North as contrast- ed with tho South, that testify to tlie paramount ;ilory of free hilmr. And while pursuing the path of perfect cai)(h)r in all these matters, it becomes nice>Siiry to say that the (quantity of whiskey and other ardent beverages consumed on the train in which I readied this city, was )nuch greater than on ar)y train that within my knowledge entcre i crry. G B. Overton, ' 'oiidcr-pdrt. 16 Kirk Haines, .MilliTsio^ n. W. B. Irvin, Meclianicsburg. Alex J. Frey. Yoik. Jacob S. Haidcman. N'ew Cumberland. 17 Wm. M'Clellan. (.bambersbuig. D. MCaiinagby, Gett.\shurg. John J. Patterson. .Acadeniin. Francis Jordan Bedf' rd. 18 A. A. Barker, El e i>biirg. S. M. Green, bailey's Forge. L. W. Hall, Altoi.na. Wm. H. Koons, Somerset. 19 W M. Stewart. Imlinna. Darwin E. Phelps. Kittaning. Addison Lench, Leeclibuig. D. W. Shryok, Gr e sburg. 20 Andrew Stewart, Uniimlown. Smith Fuller. Uniontown. Alex. Murdoch, Wrishington. Wm. E. Gapen, Wayne-burg. 21 Wm. H. Mersh, Pittsburgh. Col. James A. Ekin Klizabeth; John F. Hravo McKeesport. J. J. Siebeneck, Pittsburgh. 22 D. N. White, ^ewick ev. Stephen H. Guyer, Alletrhany City. John N. Purviance Butler ciiuuty. W. L Graham, Butler county. 23 L. L. Mcliuffin, New Ca>tle. David Craig New ( astle. Wm. G. Brown, Mercer. John Allison, New Brighton. 24 Henry Souther. Ridgway. S. P. Johnston. Warren. Jas.S Mcvers, Franklin. D. C. Gillaspie, Brooklyn. 25 B. B. Vincent, Erie. Thomas J. Devore, Brie. J. C. Hayes. Mead vi lie. . S. Newton Pettis, Mea|.eka. A. G. Proctor, ICiiiporia. John P. Hatiirscliicdt, Leavenworth. NEBRASKA — SIX VOTM. O. W Irish. Nebraska City. S. W. Elliert. I'lattsmouth E. D. W ebster, Omaha. John R. Meredith. Omnha. A. S Paddoeli, Koi t C^.lhcun. P. W. Witchcock, iinialia. DISTRICT OF COLOMBIA.. Geo. Harrington, \Va.-l]ingt' n. Joseph Geihavdt, Washington. G. A. Hall, Washington. J. A. Wyse, Washington. The Hon. Edward T). Blorgan of Now York, Chairman of the National Kcpaiilican Executive Conmiittoe, called the Convention to order, and read the call under which it had been summoned. He con- cluded by nominating the Hon. David Wilmot for temporary President. Mr. Wilmot, upon tuking the chair, made a very positive anti-slavery speech. A committee on Permanent Organization was constituted as follows : Maine — Leonard Andrews. Vermont — Hugh L. Henry. New Hainpshifc — Aaron H. Cragin. Mapsachii.setts — Linus tS. Comius. Connecticut — Arthur B. Calef. Rhode Island — Sim. on H. Greene. New York — Htnry II. Van Dyck. New Jersey — Ephraiiii Miirsh. Pennsylvania — T. J. Cotley. Delaware — Josluia T. Heil. Maryland— Jiinies Jtftiies. Virginia — Edward M. Norton. Ohio— V. B. Honon. Lidiana — P. A. llackleman. Illinois — William Ross. Michigan — Walter VV. Murphy. Wisconsin — John P. McGregor. Iowa — James F. Wilson. Minnesota — Simeon Smith. Missouri — Allen Hammer. Kansas— A. C. Wilder. California— Samiifl Bell. Oregon — Grant Johnson. Kentucky — Allen J Bristow. Texas— M. S. C. Chandler. Nebraska— 0. H Irish. District of Columbia — Geo. A. Hall. A delegate frona Kentucky — Mr. President, I would suggest that the names of all the States be called. [Applause.] The Chair — Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi [great laughter], Lou- isiana, Alnltama [laughter and hissing], Georgia, South Carolina [laughter]. North Carolina. [Feeble hisses and much Lughter.] I believe that includes the names of all the States. The couniiittee on Credeutials was made up as follows : Maine — Renssellaer Cram. New Hampshire — Jacob Benton. Vermunt — I'Alwanl C. Redingtou. Massachuseil.s — Timothy Davis. Connecticut — E. K. Foster. Rhode Island — Benedict Lapham. New York— Palmer V. Kellogg. New Jersey — Moses .M. \V('b)). Pennsylvania— J. N. Purviauce. Drce, of the soil of any State or Territory, no matter under what pretest, as among the gravest of crimes." The resolution would then read, "That the Eepuhlican party is op- posed to any change in our naturalization laws, by which the rights of citizenship hitherto accorded to immigrants from foreign lands shall be abridged or impiaired." It being explained that Mr. Wilmot was mistaken, in presuming that there was any assault on State Rights meditated, he withdrew his amend- ment. Carl Schurz however made a speech on the subject. Tie had insisted on having the very words in the platform that ^Vilmot had ob- jected to. He said: It has been very well said that it was not the purpose of this resolu- tion to declare that no State has the right to regulate the suflfrage of its citizens by legislative enactment, but it was the purpose to declare that the Republican party, in its national capacity, is opposed to any such thing in principle. Mr. Hassaureck of Ohio made a thrilling little speech. ]\]r. Curtis of New York obtained the floor and said : I then offer as an amendment to the report, as presented by the com- mittee, the following : That the second clause of the report shall read, " That the maintenance of the principles promulgated in the Declara- tion of Independence and embodied in the Federal Constitution " — and then, sir, I propose to amend by adding these words, " That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights ; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness ; that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the gov- erned " — then proceed — "is essential to the preservation of our Re- publican institutions ; and that the Federal Constitution, the Rights of the States, and the Union of the States, must and shall be preserved." [Great applause, and many gentlemen struggling for the floor.] A point of order was raised that this amendment had been once voted down. The chair, under a misapprehension, sustained the point. Mr. Blair of Missouri proposed to appeal from the decision of the chair, but whereas it appeared that the amendment offered by Mr. Giddings had been the first clause, and that this amendment was offered to the second clause, it was pronounced in order. Mr. Curtis made a short speech. He said : I have to a>k this Convention whether they are prepared to go upon the record and before the country as voting down the words of the Declaration of Independence? [Cries of " No," " no," and applause.] I ask gentlemen gravely to consider that in the amendment which I have proposed, I have done nothing that the soundest and safest man in all the land might not do; and I rise simply — fur I am now sitting down — I rise simply to ask gentlemen to think well before, upon the free prairies of the West, in the summer of ISGO, they dare to wince and quail before the men who in Philadelphia, in 1770 — in Philadel- 138 pbia, in llio Arch-Keystone State, so amply, so nobly represented upon tbis piatlorui to-day — before thoy dare to shrink truni repeating ibe words that these great men enunciated. [Terrific applause.] This w.is a strung appeal and took the Convention by storm. It was a great personal triumph for Cuitis. His classical features, literary fame, piea>ing style as a speaker, and the force of his case, called at- tention to hiui, and gave him the ear of the Convention, and gave hitn the triumph. And the Declaration again became part of the platform of the Republican party. THE PLATFORM now stood : Rcxolved, That we, the delegated representatives of the Republican electors of the rniicd Slates, in Convention assemblid, in discharge of the duty we owe to our constituents and our country, unite in the following declarations : 1. That tlie history of the nation during the last four years, has fully estab- lished the propriety and necessity of the organization and perpetuation of the Republican party, and that the causes which called it into existence are perma- nent in their nature, and now, more than ever before, demand its peaceful and constitutional triumph. 2. That the maintenance of the principles promulgated in the Declaration of Independence and embodied in the Federal Constitution. "That all men are created equal ; that thty are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness ; that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,'' is essential to the preservation of our Republican institutions; and that the Federal Constitution, the Rights of the States, and the Union of the States, must and shall be preserved. 3. That to the Union of the States this mition owes its unprecedented increase in population, its surprising development of material resources, its rapid aug- mentation of wealth, its happiness at hoiue, and its honor abroad ; and we hold in abhorrence all schemes for Disunion, come from whatever source they may: And we congratulate tlie country that no Republican member of Congress has uttered or countenanced the threats of Disunion so often made by Democratic members, without rebuke and with applause from their political associates; and we denounce those threats of disunion, in case of a popular overtlnow of their ascenihmey as denying the vital principles of a free government, and as an avowal of contc tnplated treason, which it is the imperative duty of an indig- nant People sternly to rebuke and forever silence. 4. That the maintenance inviolate of the rights of the States, and especially the right of each State to order and control its own domestic institutions ac- cording to its own judgment exclusively, is essential to that balance ot powers on which the perfection and endurance of our political fabric depends ; and we denounce the lawless invasion by armed force of the soil of any State or Terri- tory, no matter under what pretext, as among the gravest of crimes. h. That the present Democratic Administration has far exceeded our worst apprehensions, in its measureless subservi<;ncy to the exactions of a sectional interest, as especially evinced in its desperate exertions to force the infamous Lecompton Constitution upon the protesting people of Kansas ; in construing the personal relation between master and servant to involve an unqualified propi'rty in p -rsons ; in its attempted enforcement, eve ry where, on land and sea, through the intervention of Congress and of the Federal Courts, of the exir me pretensions of a purely local interest; and in its general and unviuying abuse ol the power intrusted to it by a confiding people. fi. That the people justly view with iUarm the reckless extravagance which pervades every department of the Federal (iovernmeut ; that a return to rigid economy and accountability is indispensable to arrest the systematic plunder of the public treasury by favored partisans ; while the recent startling develop- 139 ments of frauds and corruptions at the Federal motropolis, show Uiat an entire change of administration is imperatively d 'mandid. 7. That tlie in w doi;nia that the Constitution, of its own force, carries shivery into any or all of the 'I'erritories of the United States, is a dangerous politrcaTher- esy, at variance with the explicit provisions of that instrument itself, with con- temporaneous exposition, and with legislative and judicial precedent ; is revo- lutionary in its teudeacy, and subversive of the peace and harmony of the country. 8. That the normal condition of all the territory of the United States is that of freedom : That as onr Republican fathers, when they hud abolished slavery in all our national territory, ordained that " no person siionld be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of l.tw," it become's our duty, by legislation, whenever such legislation is necessary, to maintain this provision of the Constitution against all attempts to violate it ; and we deny the authority of Congress, of a Territorial Legislature, or of any individuals, to give legal ex- istence to slavery in any Territory of the United States. 9. That we brand the recent re-opening of the African slave-trade, under the cover of our national flag, aided by pervensious cf judicial power, as a crime against humanity and a burning shame to our country and age; and we call upon Congress to take prompt and efficient measures for the total and tinal sup- pression of that execrable traffic. 10. That in tha recent vetoes, by their Federal Governors, of the acts of the Legislatures of Kansas and Nebraska, prohibiting slavery in those Territories, we lind a practical illustration of the boasted Democratic principle of Non-in- tervention and Popular Sovereignty embodied in the Kausa>-Nebraska bill, and a demonstration of the deception aud fraud involved therein. 11. That Kansas should, of right, be immediately admitted as a State under the Constitution recently formed and adopted by her people, aud accepted by the House of Representatives. 12. That, while providing revenue for the support of the General Government by duties upon imports, sound policy requires such an adjustment of these im- posts as to encourage the development of the industrial interests of the whole country ; aud we commjud that policy of national exchanges, which secures to the working men liberal wages, to agriculture remunerating prices, to mechan- ics and manufacturers an adequate reward for their skill, labor and enterprise, and to the nation commercial prosperity and independence. 13. That we protest against any sale or alienation to others of the Public Lauds held by actual settlers, and against any view of the Free Homestead pol- icy which regards the settlers as paupers or suppliants lor public bounty ; and we demand the passage by Congress of the complete aud satisfactory Home- stead measure which has already passed the House. 14. That the Republican party is opposed to any change in our Naturaliza- tion Laws or any State legislation by which the rights of citizenship hitherto accorded to immigrants from foreign lands shall be abridged or impaired ; and in favor of giving a lull and efficient protection to the rights of all classes of citizens, whether native or naturalized, both at home and aliroad. 15. That appropriations by Congress for River and Harbor improvements of a National character, required for the accommodation and security of an existing commerce, are authorized by the Constitution, and justified by the obligation of Government to protect the lives and property of its citizens. IG. That a Railroad to the Pacific Ocean is imperatively demanded by the in- terests of the whole country ; that the Federal Government ought to render im- mediate and efficient aid in its construction ; and that as preliminary thereto, a daily Overland Mail should be promptly established. 17. Finally, having thus set forth our distinctive principles and views, vre in- vite the co-operation of all citizens, however differing on other questions, who substantially agree with us in their affirmance and support. So it was adopted. The vote was taken about six o'clock, and upon the announcenient being made a scene ensued of the most astounding character. All the thousands of men in that enormous wigwam com- menced swinging their hats, and cheering with intense enthusiasm, and 140 the other thousnnfls of ladies waved their handkerchiefs and elapped their hands. The roar that went up from that mass of ten thousand human beings under one roof was indeserihahle. Such a spectacle as was presented for snnie minutes has never before been witnessed at a Convention. A herd of buffaloes or lions could not have made a more tremendous roaring. As the great assemblage poured through the streets after adjournment, it .seemed to electrify the city. The agitation of the masses that pack the hotels and throng the streets, and are certainly forty thousand strong, was such as made the little excitement at Charleston seem insignificant. The Convention adjnunied without taking a ballot lor President, as the tally-sheets were not prepared. The tactics of the Seward men in convention today were admirable. Tliey made but one mi>take, that of voting against the recommitment of the report of the committee on Credentials. They made a beautiful fight ay;ainst Wilniot's proposition to examine into the constituencies of slave State delegations, putting forward men to strike the necessary bh)ws who were not suspected of Sewardism. There was also a splen- did fight on the sulject of the two-thirds rule (as it was in effect), which was .sought to be used to slaughter Seward. So perfect were the Seward tactics, that this rule, which his opponents had hoped to carry, was made odious, and defeated by a two-thirds vote. Then Giddings was anxious, beyond all description, to have the initial words of the Declaration of Independence in the platform. In attempting to get them in, he was snulbed by Seward's opponents most cruelly. He had been working against Seward, and was not without influence. Now a New York man took up and carried through his precious amend- ment. So confident were the Seward men, when the platform was adopt- ed, of their ability to nominate their great leader, that they urged an immediate ballot, and would have had it if the cltMks had not reported that they were unprovided with tally-sheets. The cheeiing of the thousands of spectators during the day, indicated that a very laro-e share of the outside pressure was for Seward. There is somethino' al- most irresistible here in the prestige of his fame. The New lorkers here are of a class unknown to "Western Republi- can politicians. They can drink as much whiskey, swear as loud and long, sing as bad songs, and "get up and howl " as ferociously as any crowd of Democrats you ever heard, or heard of. They are oppos- ed, as they say, "to being too d — d virtuous." They hoot at the idea that Seward could not sweep all the Northern States, and swear that he would have a party in every slave State, in less than a year, that would clean out tlie disunionists, from shore to shore. They slap each other on the back with the emphasis of delight when they meet, and rip out " How are you?" with a " How are you hoss?" style, that would do honor to Old Kaintuck on a bust. At night those of them who are not engaged at caucusing, are doing that which ill-tutored youths call " raising li — 1 generally." Wherever you find them, the New York politicians, of whatever party, are a peculiar people. The Scward men have been in high feather. Tbey entertain no par- 141 tide of doubt of bis nomination in the morning. Tlioy bave a cbam- pagne supper in their rooms at the llichmond 11 luso to-night, and bave bands of music serenading the various delegations at their fjuarters. Three liundred bottle.- of champagne arc said to have been craekod at the llichnioiid. This may be an exaggerati(m, but I am not inclined to think the quantity overstated, for it flowed freely us water. The delegation here is a queer compound. There is a party of toler- ably rough fellows, of whom Tom Hyer is leader, and there is Thurlow Weed (called Lord Thurlow by his friends), Mose-* II. Grinnell, James Watson Webb, Gov. Morgan, Gen. Nye, George VV. Curtis, and others of the strong men of the rftate, in connnerce, political jobbing, and in literature — first class men in their respective positions, and each with his work to do according to his ability. In the face of such " irrepress- ibles," the conservative expediency men — Greeley, the Blairs, the Re- publican candidates for Governor in Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Illi- nois — are hard pressed, sorely perplexed, and despondent. THIRD DAY. Proceedings opened by prayer by the Rev. Mr. Green of Chicago. Mr. Green said : "0, we entreat thee, that at some future but no distant day, the evils which now invest; the body politic shall not only have been arrested in its progress, but wholly eradicated from the system. And may the pen of the historian trace an intimate connection between that glorious con- summation and the transaction of this Convention." After adjournment on Thursday (the second day), there were few men in Chieago who believed it possible to prevent the nomination of Seward. His friends bad played their game to artmiration, and had been victorious on every preliminary skirmish. When the platform had been adopted, inclusive of the Declaration of Independence, they felt themselves already exalted upon the pinnacle of victory. They re- joiced exceedingly, and full of confidence, cried in triumphant tones, " Call the roll of States." But it was otherwise ordered. The chair announced that the tally-sheets had not been prepared, and that it would subject the clerks to great inconvenience to proceed to a ballot at that time. The Seward men expressed themselves greatly di.sgusted, and were still unwilling to adjourn. A motion was made to adjourn, hewever, and after an uncertain response, very little voting being done either way, the chair pronounced the motion for adjournujenr carried. The Seward men were displeased but not disheartened. They consid- ered their hour of triuiuphing with brains and principle, over pre- sumptions of expediency, as merely postponed. They did not fear the results of the caucusing that night, though they knew every hour would be employed against them. The opponents of Mr. Seward left the wio-wam that evening thoroughly disheartened. Greeley was, as has been widely reported, absolutely "terrilied." The nomination of Sew- ard in defiance of his influence, would have been a cruel blow. He gave ll2 up the ship, as appears from the following despatch to the New York Tribune : GOV. SEWARD WILL BE NOMINATED. CnrcAGO, Tliurs-day, May 17 — 11:40 P. M. — My conclusion, from all that I can gatbcr to-nij:lit, is, tiiat the opposition to Gov. Seward cannot concentrate on any candidate, and that ho will be nominated. h. g. I telegraphed, ahout the same time, the same thing to the Cincinnati Commercial ; and ever}' one of the forty thousand men in attendance upon the Chicago Convention will testify that at midnight of Thursday-Fri- day night, the universal impression was that Seward's success was cer- tain. The New Yorkers were exultant. Their bands were playing, and the champagne flowing at their head-quarters as after a victory. But there was much done after midnight and before the Convention assembled on Friday morning. There were hundreds of Pennsylvanians, Indianians and Illinoisans, who never closed their eyes that night. I saw Henry S. Lane at one o'clock, pale and haggard, with cane under his arm, walking as if for a wager, from one caucus-room to another, at the Trcmont House. He had been toiling with desperation to bring the Indiana delegation to go as a unit for Lincoln. And then in con- nection with others, he had been operating to bring the Vermonters and Virginians to the point of deserting Seward. Vermont would cer- tainly cast her electoral vote for any candidate who could be nominat- ed, and Virginia as certainly against any candidate. The object was to bring the delegates of those States to consider success rather than Seward, and join with the battle-ground States — as Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Indiana, and Illinois insisted upon calling themselves. This was finally done, the fatal break in Seward's strength having been made in Vermont and Virginia, destroying at once, when it appeared, his power in the New England and the slave State delegations. But the work was not yet done. The Pennsylvanians had been fed upon meat, such that they presented themselves at Chicago with the presumption that they had only to say what they wished, and receive the indorsement of the Convention. And they were for Cameron.* He was the only man, they a thousand times said, who would certainly carry Pennsylvania. They were astonished, alarmed, and maddened to find public opinion settling down upon Seward and Lincoln, and that one or the other must be nominated. They saw that Lincoln was understood to be the only man to defeat Seward, and thinking themselves capable of holding that balance of power, so much depended upon, and so deceptive on those occasions, stood out against the Lincoln combination. Upon some of the delegation, Seward operations had been performed with perceptible effect. The Seward men had stated that the talk of not carrying Penn- sylvania was all nonsense. Seward had a good Tariff record, and his friends would spend money enough in the State to carry it against any Democratic candidate who was a possibility. The flood of Seward • Tt hati since aiippared from a spepoh clcHvered by Mr. Cameron at Harrisbur^, that Pew- ar.l wnK liis (ir-t rhoice, and in his oi>iuion could carry Pennsylvania. Notliiiig of the kind was heard of at Chicago. 143 money proniisod for Penn?ylvania was not without efficacy. Tlie plirase used Was, that Seward's friends " would spend oceans of vronnj.'''' The Wade movement died before this time. It had a lirilhant and formidable apitearance for a while; but the fact that it originated at Washino-ton was against it, and the bitterness of those delegates from Ohio, who would not in any event go for any man from that State other than Chase, and who declared war to the knife against Wade, and as a second choice were for Lincoln or Seward, stifled the Wade project. It does not appear by the record that "old Ben. "Wade " ever stood a chance for the place now occupied by "old Abe Lincoln." If his friends in Ohio could have brought the friends of Mr. Chase to agree, that the delegation should vote as a unit every time as the majority should direct. Wade might have been the nominee, and instead of hear- ino- so much of some of the exploits of Mr. Lincoln in rail-.'^plitting, when a farmer's boy, we should have information concerning the labors of Ben. Wade on the Erie Canal, where he handled a spado. While touching the Wade movement as developed in the delegation from Ohio, it is proper to give as an explanatory note the fact, that at least six o-entlemen from Ohio, who were engaged in it, were understood to have aspirations for the Senate, and to be regarding Mr. Wade's chair in the Senate-chamber with covetous glances. These gentlemen wore D. K. Cartter, Joshua R. Giddings, C. P. Wolcott, William Dennison, jr., Tom Corwin, and Columbus Delano. The cry of a want of availability which was from the start raised against Seward, now took a more definite form than heretofore. It was reported, and with a well-understood purpose, that the Republican can- didates for Governor in Indiana, Illinois and Pennsylvania would re- sign, if Seward were nominated. Whether they really meant it or not, the rumor was well circulated, and the effect produced was as if they had been earnest. Henry S. Lane, candidate in Indiana, did say something ^ of the kind. He asserted hundreds of times that the nomination of Seward would be death to him, and that he might in that case just as well give up the canvass. He did not feel like expending his time and money in currying on a hopeless campaign, and would be disposed to abandon the contest. The Chicago Press and Tribune of Friday morning contained a last appeal to the Convention not to nominate Seward. It was evidently written in a despairing state of mind, and it simply begged that Seward should not be nominated. The Cameron men, discovering there was absolutely no hope for their man, but that either Seward or Lincoln would be nominated, and that speedily, and being a calculating company, were persuaded to throw their strength for Lincoln at such a time as to have credit of his nomination if it were made. There was much difficulty, however, in arriving at this conclusion, and the wheels of the machine did not at any time in Pennsylvania run smooth. On nearly every ballot, Pennsylvania was not in readiness when her name was called, and her retirements for consultation became a jwke. The Seward men generally abounded in confidence Friday morning. (^ S The air was full of rumors of the caucusing the night befoie, but the opposition of the doubtful States to Seward was an old story ; and after 1*44 the distress of Pennsylvania, Indiana e res- olutions, a motion was made in each case to reconsider th(! vote, anil to lay that motion of reconsideration upon the table. I5nt neither of those motions to reconsider or to lay on th(! table was put, the putting of these motions having been prevented by the intervention of questions of priv- ilege, and the ultimate vote competent in such case, to wit, of the adoption of the report of the majority as amended by the report of the minority, had not been acted upon by the Convention. So that at the time when the Convention adjourned, there remained pendino- before it these motions, to wit : To reconsider — the resolutions constitutini' the platform, and the ulterior question of adopting the majority as ameruled by the substitution of the minority report. Those questions, and those only, as the chair understood the motions before the Convention, were not acted upon prior to the adjournment. After the disposition of the intervening questions of privilege, a mo- tion was made by Mr. McCook of Ohio to proceed to vote fof candi- dates for President and Vice President. Upon that motion the Con- vention instructed the ch lir (not, as has been erroneously supposed, in the recess of the Convention, the chair defermining for tlie Convention, but the Convention instructing the chair) to make no declaration of a nomination except upon a vote equivalent to two-thirds in tlie Electoral College of the United States, and upon that ballo'ing, no such vote being given, that order was, upon the motion of the g'nitlrman from Vir- ginia (Mr. Russell), laid on the table for the purpose of enabbnof him to propose a motion, which he subsequently did, that the Conventioa adjourn from the city of Charleston to the city of Baltimore, and with a provision concerning the filling of vacancies embraced in the same resolution, which resolutiori the Secretary will please to read. The Secretary read the resolution, as follows : Resolved, That when this Convention adjourns to-day, it adjourn to reassemble at Baltimore, Md., on Monday, th(! 18th day of .Tune, and that it be respecttully recorameiidcd to the Democratic p:irty of the several StaU'S t » makj pt-o\ision for Rupplyitig all vacancies in their respective delcgatioas to this Goaveution when it shall reassemble. The President — The Convention will thus perceive that the order adopted by it provided, among other things, that it is respectfully re- commended to the Democratic party of the several States to make pro- vision for supplying all vacancies in their respective delt'gations to this Convention, when it shall reassemble. What is the construction of that resolution ? — what is the scope of its application ? — is a question not for the chair to determine or to suggest to the Convention, but for the Con- vention itself to determine. However that may be, in the prepiratory arrangement for the pre>ent assembling of this Convention, there were addressed to the chair the credentials of members elected, or purporting to be elected, affiirned and confirmed by the original Conventions, and accredited to this Con- vention. In three of those cases, or perhaps four, the credentials were authentic and complete, presenting no question of controverting dele- 11 162 gates. In four others, to wit, tbe States of Georgia, Alabama, Lou- isiana and Delaware, there were contesting applications. Upon those applications the chair was called to determine whether it possessed any power to doterniine prima facie membership of this Convention. ^ That question was presented in its most absolute and complete form in the case of Mississippi, where there was no contest either through irregu- larity of form or of competing delegations, and so also in the cases of Florida, Texas and Arkansas. In those four States, there being an apparent authenticity of commission, the chair was called upon to deter- mine the naked abstract question whether he had power, peremptorily and preliminary, to determine t!io prima facie membership of alleged mem- bers of this Convention. The chair would gladly have satisfied himself that he had this power, but upon examining the source of his power, to wit, the rales of the House of Representatives, he was unable to dis- cern that he had any authority, even prima facie, to scrutinize and canvass credentials, although they were such as, upon their face, were free from contest or controversy either of form or of substance, and therefore he deemed it his duty to reserve the determination of that question to be submitted to the Convention. And in due time the chair will present that question as one of privilege to this body. And now, gentlemen, having thus presented to you the exact state of the questions pending or involved in the action of the Convention when it adjourned, the chair begs leave only to add a single observation of a more general nature. We assemble here now at a time when the ene- mies of the Democratic party — when, let me say, the enemies of the Constitution of the United States, are in the field [applause] with their selected leaders, with their banners displayed, advancing to the combat with the constitutional interests and party of the United States ; and upon you, gentlemen, upon your action, upon your spirit of harmony, upon your devotion to the Constitution, upon your solicitude to main- tain the interests, the honor and the integrity of the Democratic party as the guardians of the Constitution — upon you, gentlemen, it depends whether the issue of that combat is to be victory or defeat for the Con- stitution of the United States. [Renewed applause.] It does not become the chair to discuss any of the personal or politi- cal demands of that question. It may be permitted, however, to ex- hort you in the spirit of our community, of party interests, in the faith of our common respect for the Constitutim, in the sense of our common devotion to the interests and honor of our country ; I say to exhort you to feel that we come here this day not to determine any mere technical (Questions of form, not merely to gain personal or party triumphs, but we come here in the exercise of a solemn duty, in a crisis of the condi- tion of the affairs of our country such as has never yet befallen the United States. Shall we not all enter upon this duty in the solemn and profound conviction of the responsibilities thus devolved upon us, of our high duty to our country, to ourselves, and to the States of this Union V [Applause.] Gentlemen, the Convention is now in order for the transaction of business. This is an admirable statement of the condition of the business be- fore the question. ' 163 Mr. Howard of Tennessee introducecl the following resolution: Resolved, That the President of this Convention direct the Sergeant-at-ArniP to issue tickets of admission to the delegates ol" the Convention as ori;,'inally constituted and organized at Charleston. Mr. Cavanagh moved to lay the resolution on the table, and called the vote hy States. Mr. Russell of Virginia wished to inquire of the chair what he had done in the way of determining the rights of delegations to scats. The President — The chair will then state, m response to the inquiry of the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Russell), that the chair did not undertake to judge any thing, neither to decide that there were or were not vacancies. AH the chair undertook to say, was, that the gentlemen borne upon its roll as members of this Convention at the time of its ad- journment at Charleston, were entitled to recognition of membership precisely to-day as they would had the Convention adjourned yesterday. [Applause.] To have gone beyond this point would have been to enter into the canvass of conflicting credentials upon new elections of mem- bers. The chair was thoroughly convinced that he had no power to enter into that inquiry of conflicting credentials of persons alleging to have been elected to this Convention by State Conventions bekl since the adjournment of this Convention at Charleston. The chair will sug- gest to the gentleman from Virginia that the question did not present itself in the form of simplicity and unity in which bis inquiiy would suppose, inahmueh as several States to which he refers, did assume that the resolution in the adjournment created vacancies to be filled V)y new action of the respective States; and if the chair had entered into any inquiry of the new credentials, as, for instance, to discriminate upon the question whether the.se credentials came from a new State Convention called anew, and that Convention vacating anterior commissions ; or whether they emanate from a Convention called anew and simply con- firming anterior commissions ; — in either case, if the chair had gone into the question, it would have been necessary for him to hold hearings and investigations of credentials and of facts in regard to eight States of the Union, as to which he had no more power under the rules of the House of Representatives than any other member of the Convention. Whilst the chair is disposed to exert the whole power, in any contin- gency, of the Speaker of the House of Representatives — having en- tered upon the discharge of this most unwelcome and responsible duty with a determination to act without favor and also without fear — yet the chair knows that it is impossihle that he shall maintain order in this Convention, that the deliberations of this Convention shall go on in any system of regularity, unless the chair takes care to walk carefully and rigorously in the simple line of routine and of technical authority. [Applause.] Within the line of technical authority, and upon the rules of the House of Representatives, as constituting the guide of the chair, the chair will take leave to decide all questions as they may arise, in or out of the Convention. But the chair does not propojie to assume any judicial or quasi-judicial authority in regard to tlie canvass of creden- tials and the authenticity of membership ; an authority manifestly not conferred upon the presiding officer, according to precedent and the uni- 164 foira usnge of the two houses of the Congress of the United States, never pieiiuiiaarily determined by the presiding officer of either house of Congress. In issuing tickets to the gentlemen borne on the roll of the Convention, ah-eady sufficiently authenticated by the proceedings of the Convention itself, at tlie time of adjournment, the chair did that at least which was in the sphere of the duties of the chair ; and in doing that he in no degree involved or prejudiced the question of what was the right of any gentleman — that depending upon the action of this Convention. The chair, as he before* iniimated, will now make this, the first question, a question of privilege, that the Convention may in- struct the chair regarding his duty concerning the delegations of ihe other States. Mr. Church of New York offered the following resolution, as an amendment to that of Mr. Howard — Mr. Cavanagh, who had moved to table Howard's resolution, yielding for that purpose : Resolved, That the credentials of all persons claiming .seats in this Convention made vacant by the secession of delegates at Charleston, be referred to the com- mittee on Credentials, and said committee is hereby instructed, a,s soon as prac- ticable, to examine the siune and report the names of persons entitled to such seats, with the district — understanding, however, that every person accepting a Seat in tliis Convention is bound in honor and good faith to abide by the action of this Convention, and support its nominations. The re.solution was received with shouts of tumultuous applause, originating with members of the Convention, and taken up and repeated by the spectators in the galleries. It was erroneously understood at this time, that the resolution of Mr. Church, was the proposition of a majority of the New York delegation, and the sensation was very great. The applause in the galleries caused the chair to become indignant, and he fiercely stated his purpose of preserving order and prevent the galleries from participating by indica- tions of approbation or disapprobation in the proceedings. An uninqjortant debate on points of order followed. Mr. Church called tlie previous question on his resolution. Durnig the conversa- tional di,scussion : Mr.' Russell of Virginia — I ask that this Convention will allow me to make a friendly, candid and sincere appeal to the gentleman who made the call fur the previous question (Mr. Church of New York) to with- draw ids call. The Presirlent — Tlie chair has no authority over that question. Mr. llussell — I ask the chair to appeal to the gentleman to allow fair play in this Convention. Mr. Stuart of Michigan — I insist that the chair preserve order. The President — The gentleman from Virginia (.Mr. llussell) is not in order. Mr. Russell — If we are to be constrained to silence, I beg gentle- men to consider the silence of Virginia as somewhat ominous. [Ap- plause and hisses.] The question was stated to be upon seconding the demand for the previous question. Being taken vica voce, The President stated that the noes appeared to have it. 165 Mr. Kichnrdson of Illinois douhtcd the annonnooiiifiit, mid nskcd that the vote be taken by States, which was oiilered. Mr. Brodhead of Pennsylvania stated tliat the {^cntleniaii from Now York (Mr. Church) was willing to withdraw his call fur the previous question. j\Ir. JMontrronicry of Pennsylvania — The vote having been ordered to he taken by States, it is not now in order to withdraw the call for the previous question. A motion was made to adjourn until four o'clock. A call for the vote by States was made. While this was being taken, a controversy occurred in the Minnesota delegation, a part of which has become hos- tile to Douglas, a fact which irritates his friends beyond measure. Af- ter consuming nearly an hour's time of the Convention, the delegation temporarily settled the difference. The vote on adjournment was: Yeas — Maine li, New Hampshire i, Connecticut 1, New Jersey 5, Pennsylvania G, Delaware 3, Maryland 6, Virginia 15, North Caroli- na 10, Mis.souri (d5, Tennessee 8i, Kentucky 3, Minnesota 1|, Cali- fornia 4, Oregon 3 — 73-|-. Nays — Maine Gj, New Hampshire 4^, Vermont 5, Massachusetts 13, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 5, New York 35, New Jersey 2, Penn- sylvania 21, IMaryland 2, Arkansas 1, Missouri 2i, Tennessee 3^, Kentucky 9, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 21 — 178^- Some of Douglas's friends here absurdly claimed the nays to indicate positively their strength. The Convention now refused, objection being made, to hear a com- munication from the State of Mississippi. The question was then taken on seconding the demand for the previ- ous question, upon the proposition of Mr. Church. It was not agreed to. Yeas 107i, nays 140^, as follows: Y^EAS — Maine 6, New Hampshire 5, Vermont 4|, Massachusetts 4|, Connecticut 35, New Jersey 2^, Pennsylvania 9|, Maryland 2, Mis- souri 2^, Tennessee 3, Kentucky Is, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Mmnesota 2^ — Wlh Nays — Maine 2, Vermont -J, Massachusetts 4^, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 2 — one absent, New York 35, New Jersey 4^. Pennsylva- nia 16^, Delaware 2, Maryland 6, Virginia 15, North Carolina 10, Arkansas 1, Missouri 6^, Tennessee 8, Kentucky IO5, Minnesota U, California 4, Oregon 3 — 1405- On calling the roll, the New York delegation asked permission to re- tire for consultation, and during the interim there was an entire cessa- tion of business. The power of the State of New York was made quite apparent in this vote, and it also appeared that the course she would take was among the uncertainties. Some considered the vote to indicate the determination of New York not to sustain^Douglas. There were evidences, however, that it was a piece of New York tactics not at all incompatible with friendliness toward Douglas. New York judged it unwise to stifle debate — that was all. 166 Tli(3 qupstion was then stated to be upon the amenclment to the amendment. Mr. Gihnor of Pennsylvania offered the following amendment to Mr. Church's resolution : Revoked, That the rresidcnt of the Convention be directed to issue tickets of admission to seats in'tlie Convention to the dele.fiates from the States of Texas. Florida, Mississippi and Arkansas, in which States there are no contesting dele- gations. A motion to adjourn to ten o'clock, Tuesday, was now negatived by a vote of 35 to 216. A motion to take a recess until five o'clock in the evening, was carried viva voce. EVENING SESSION. The chair gave notice of the possession of documents regarding con- tested scats. Mr. Gihnor has his amendment read again, having slightly modi- fied it : Rexoh'cd, That the President of the Convention be authorized to issue tickets of admission to seats in this Convention to the delegates from the States of Arkansas, Texas, Florida and Mississippi, in which States there are no contest- ing delegations, and tiiat in those States, to wit, Delaware, Georgia, Alabama and I.ouisiana, where there are contesting delegations, a committee on Creden- tials shall be appointed, by the several delegations, to report upon said States. Mr Clark of J^Ii.ssouri obtained, after encountering some objections, the reading for information of a proposition which he considered of im- mense altitude. It was: Strike out the proviso in the amendment of Mr. Church of New York, and add the following: Resolved, Tliat the citizens of the several States of the Union have an equal right to settle and remain in the Territories of the United States, and to hold therein, unmolested by any legislation whatever, their .slaves and other property ; and that this Convention recognizes th(> opinion of tlie Supreme Court of thi' United States in the Dred Scott case as a true exposition of tlie Constitution in regard to the rights of the citizens of the several States and Territories of the United States upon all subjects concerning wliich it treats ; and that the members of this Convention pledge themselves, and require all others who may be author- ized as delegates, to make the same pledge, to support the Democratic candi- dates, fairly and in good faith, nominated by this Convention according to the usages of the National Democratic party. The debate now opened upon the proposition of Mr Gilnior, Mr. Randall of Pennsylvania obtaining the floor. Mr. R inlali however ad- dressed himself to the amendment of Mr. Church. lie s^iid : The amendment of the gentleman from New York itnftoses a condi- tion upon the returning members of the several States that seceded at Charleston. I deny the power of this Convention to impose any such condition. The right of their constituents is unqualified, and beyond the power of this Convention, to send their representatives to this body without condition and without limitation. [Applause and hisses.] It is an intereference with the right of the constituents of seven seceding 1G7 States to impose any qualification upon the roprcscntativcp of this hofly. I deny its equity or its justice. It is said in the amendment tlmt it is " understood." Utiderstnod ! an npology for the hroad declaration of a naked invasion of the ri;;hts of freemen. Not that the meiiii)ers of this body thus ailmitted h;ivc denied the right, but it is understood that they are pledged to do what other members are not pledged to do — to conform to the decision of the majority. Mr. President and gentlemen, I invoke you to look at the injustice of every such qualification — a qualification which no honorable man, except under very peculiar circumstances, could ever submit to ; a qualification which it is known that the representatives of these seven seceding States will never submit to. [Applause and hisses.] But, Mr. President and brethren of the great Democratic family, who are now contending for the success of the Democratic cause, I ask you to halt, not simply upon the ground of right and justice, but of policy. Not a member of this body but knows that the representatives of those States will not give any such pledge [applause and hisses] ; that it is tantamount to a declaration of expulsion from the body. [Applause and hisses.] Mr. Hoag of Virginia : I rise to a question of privilege. I desire to ascertain, once for all, whether, when a gentleman like that from Pennsylvania is addressing the Convention, he is to be exposed to the cowardly insult of hisses from the gallery? [Applause, and calls to order by the chair.] I ask if citizens of Virginia are to endure the ignominy and insult of hearing honorable gentlemen hissed from the galleries for uttering sentiments in accordance with our own ? If there is to be an outside pressure brought to bear upon this body, I, for one, will deem my personal honor sacrificed if I remain here without being protected against the outrage and insult of these his.ses. [Applause.] The chair was properly indignant at the outsiders. Mr. Randall made the usual appeals for harmony (which meant the sacrifice of Douglas) and the preservation of the unity of the party and the integrity of the Union. Mr. Richardson of Illinois replied. He was opposed to the adop- tion of the amendment of Mr. Gilmor. He said : It declares that the President of the Convention shall issue his tick- ets to the delegates from Florida, Mississippi, Texas and Arkansas. Talking, the other day, in the city of Washington, with a delegate from the State of Florida, who was at Richmond, I learned from him the fact that they were not accredited to this Convention. The gentleman from Pennsylvania proposes by bis amendment to elect delegates from the State of Florida, that the people have not accredited. To that I am opposed. We are not so hard driven yet as to be compelled to elect delegates from States that do not choose to send any here. It is true, the delegate with whom I talked, said to me that if this Conven- tion invited them — I believe his words were, "extended the olive branch " to them — they would come here. I want no delegates here who have not been accredited here. I do not propose to sit s'.de by side with delegates who do not represent the people; who a;e not bound by any thing, when I am to be bound by every thing. [Applause.] 168 I know, so fur as I have heard, that there is no contest about the seats f'-iiin ^Mississippi. By placing them here, in connection with the others, it is impossible that the sense of this Convention can be fully expressed, fl shall vote against the amendment, because it brings del- egates in here who have not been sent here ; because it decides a con- troversy in another State without a hearing; because I have not heard whether in the State of Missi.-sippi they have been sent here or not. I think that in all these cases the usages of the Democratic party require that they should be investigated by a committee before any of them are admitted upon this floor. [Applause ] Mr. Richardson's speech received the most marked attention, for the reason, he was known to be peculiarly the spokesman of Douglas. He was always deeply in earnest, and his tone was that of the utmost de- gree of resolution. JMr. Cochrane of New York made a speech, quite impressive in voice and manner, but not containing much matter. He was not in favor of either proposition before the house in its integrity. Mr. Kussell of Virginia made a speech in which he said that Virginia intended to cling to the Democracy of the South, and see that they had fiiir play at least. He hi;d seen that day she would have ftiir play. He urgently appealed for the admission of Southern delegates, regard- ing whose seat there was no contest. As to the merits of the proposed test, he said : I suppose we all come here to be bound by the obliga- tions of gentlemen. If we are not gentlemen — if we are such knaves that we cannot trust one another — we had better scatter at once, and cease to make any effort to bind each other. [Applause. — ^ Montgomery of Pennsylvania now made his sensation speech. Mr. Montgomery of Pa. — I regret that the previous question was not sustained this morning. I regret that the time of this Convention has been taken up in this discussion ; but as it has progressed thus far, it is due to those who are opposed to the resolution offered by my col- league, that they should exjiluin their views upon it. My colleague (Mr. Eandall) has said that we are under no pledges. I differ with him. There is not a Democrat upon this floor who is not under the most solemn pledges of his honor as a man, and of his integrity as a Demo- crat, to abide by the nominations that we may make. [Applause.] And 1 say to my colleague that 'if he thinks that he is not bound by those honorable obligations, the sooner he retires from the Convention, the sooner he will relieve the Democracy from the imputation which he has slight to cast upon it. Any man who ctmes into the Convention of a party is bound by its decisions. You turn the party back into chaos if you do not acknowledge that obligation. [Loud applause.] Now what is it we propose that these delegates shall do '! It is simply that they shall give that honorable pledge, and declare, in taking their seats, that they will not countenance a Seceders' Convention in another place. [Enthusiastic applause, in which the galleries participated.] The President — The g<'ntlenien will suspend. The proceedings of the Convention have again been interrupted by loud clapping and noises from the gallery. Many Voices — Ou the floor. 169 A Delegate — And in the gallery. The President — And in the gallery also, distinctly seen and licard by me. Mr. Johnson of Maryland — As a delegate from Maryland, I ask that representatives of tliis State may be cleared from the imputation cast upon them by the disorder in the gallery. Tiiose joining in the disorder there are not the people of IJaltimore. I ask of the chair that the gallerie.s may be cleared. [Cries from all parts of the house — "No," "No," "No"— and hisses. Mr. Montgomery — We have heard this before at Charleston. I have had to sic silent when an honorable delegate from the far South was hissed by a whole gallery for casting his vote as he had the right to do as the representative of a sovereign State, and the indignation ami mani- festation of feeling as exhibited here to-day nowhere exhibited itself then. [Applause.] I do not justify the applause, but I am here in defense of my rights, as that man was there in defense of his. Let us have even-handed justice. Tlie President — The chair begs leave to remind the gentleman from Pennsylvania that on that occasion the hissing was about to produce a clearing of the gallery, and it was at the special request of Mr. Perry of South Carolina that the Convention desisted from that act. Mr. Wright of Pennsylvania — We were hissed time and again at Charleston. [The manner of Mr. Montgomery in referring to the hissing of Mr. Perry from the Convention at Charleston, was perfectly ferocious. A grizzly bear could not have presented a more formidable appearance, or growled with more ravenous rage.] Wo are situated, peculiarly, Mr. President. We are situated to-day as no Democratic Convention has never been in before, in the history of the party. From the day that the first Democratic Convention assem- bled, up to this hour, we never have had a scene presented to us like this. 'i^^For the first time in the history of the Democratic party, a num- ber of delegations of sovereign States relinquished and resigned, by a solemn instrument in writing, their places as delegates upon the floor of the Convention. They went out with a protest, not against a candidate, but against the principles of a party, declaring that they were not their principle-^ — that they did not hold them, and they would not indorse and support them."( There, sir, was the divorce of which my colleague has spoken, They declared it. It was not our act, but theirs. They put themselves from us, and not we from them. : And not onlj^that, but they called a hostile Convention, in the city of Charleston, and sat side by side with us, deliberating upon a nomination of candidates and the adoption of a platform. Principles hostile to ours were as.serted, and a nomination hostile to ours was threatened. Our Convention was compelled, under the circumstances, in order to have those sovereign States represented, to adjourn. We did adjourn. What became of the gentlemen who seceded V They adjourned to meet at Richmond^at an- other time. They did meet at Richmond. It is said by honorable gentlemen that they seek to come back and sit upon this floor with us. Now what did they do at Richmond ? They adjourned that Convention, 170 and to-(l:iy they hold it in terrorem over us if we do not come to their terms. [Applau^^e.] We adjiiurned for wh:it? For the purpose of enabling thnse States in the South, whot^e delegates had seceded, to fill up the phifes of those who had left us. Now, 1 appeal to the magnanimity, to the Democracy, to the manhood of any delegate here, if such was not your declaration sent greeting to all those States? We told them — " Fill up your dele- gations and send us back new men." They have filled them up, and they have sent delegates who claim to represent the people of those States. * * * But the gentleman from Virginia tells us that from the State-of Florida tlje delegates have come to inform us that they have their original authority which constituted them delegates to the National Convention at Charleston. But he forgets that these same delegates, by a paper which remains on file in this Convention, resigned their places and aban- doned them. They declared that they were no longer delegates to this Convention, and they filed a protest against its proceedings. And not only that, they were now in a hostile organization to ours. Now, I am in favor, under these circumstances, and their peculiar situation (one which has never existed before), of requiring that those delegates shall declare, when they are admitted to seats upon this floor, that they are honorably bound by our action, and by the nominations that we may make. We owe that to ourselves, to the party, to the country, and to the Union, which they tell us is to be preserved by the action of those very delegates. Do we require it of one side ? Not at all — but of all sides. My colleague (Mr. Randall) says he is in favor of perpetuating our glorious Union. So am I. God knows I love the Star Spangled Banner of my country as dearly as he can, and it is because I love the country and the Union that I am determined that any man who arrays himself in hostility to it shall not, by my consent, take a seat in this Convention. [Applause.] , I am opposed to disunion, and I am op- posed to the advocates of it. [Applause.] And I am opposed to se- cession, either from this Union or from the Democratic Convention, \ [Applause.] But when men take this responsibility upon themselves — when they file among the records of this Convention their determination to have nothing more to do with its action — when they make speeches in our hearing, declaring that the principles of the party are not their principles, and that they will not be bound to support them — then I say it is high time, if they ask to come back, that they shall declare that they|J}ave changed their minds. [Applause.] What is the history of the past? Is this a novel feature in the proceedings of National Con- ventions? No, sir — it is a part of the history of our party that in all such contests we have always required such pledges. The gentleman from New York (Mr. Cochrane) felt the pressure of this same practice when he referred to his own delegation. Only at your last National Convention in Cincinnati, a contest existed between the two wings of the party in the State of New York. And it was required of the dele- gates from that State, befoi'e they had an examination upon their cre- dentials, that they should pledge themselves to abide by the action of the Couventioa and support the nominees of the Convention. [Ap- 171 plause.] Are you going to insult the empire State of New York 't Are you willing to make an exception against New York in favor of the South V [Cries of " No ! " " no ! "] Even-biinded justice is all I am asking for. I ask that we shall adhere to the precedents of the past. [Ajiplause.] This was the speech of the day. It was considerably more tlian red hot, and by the time he had concluded, the political atin<)Sphere was at the temperature it reached in Charleston just before the explosion. The speecfi was that of a bold man with a rude sort of ability, and zeal developed out of proportion to his discretion. Still it rai.sed every body's estimate of " Bill Montgomery." Mr. Ewing of Tennessee—I ask you, gentlemen of this Democratic Convention from all portions of this country, what do you mean ? Have you no enemy in front? Have you any States to spare? Have you any States to give up? If you have, I have not yet learned it from the history of the past, or from the position of parties and of men at the present moment. We are pursued in front bv a remorseless enemy, advancing step by step, squadron by squadron, until the field is almost irretrievably lost. And yet from all quarters and all sides of this Con- vention come exclamations of bitterness and words that burn, with a view to open the breach in our ranks wider and wider, until at last, Curtius-like, vye will be compelled to leap into it to close it. What advantage will this give you? Who will be benefited l)y it? And so on, begging for conciliation — which means, cut the throat of Douglas ! He said : It seems to me that gentlemen forget that this is a voluntary Conven- tion for the purpose of selecting a Democratic candidate for the Presi- dency. And how do you expect to succeed ? Suppose, you Democrats of the North, you nominate your candidate, do you expect to receive the votes of Florida, Mississippi, Texas and Arkansas, by keeping them out of this Convention, and keeping up a constant fire of invective and reproach upon them ? Can you affijrd to lose their votes ? I invoke this Convention to admit Florida, Mississippi and Texas — strike out Arkansas if there is any contest — and if there is to be a com- mittee on Credentials, let them report, let the Convention ilecide, and then we will be prepared to go on with the nominations. But as matters now stand, the Convention is losing its whole power and frittering away its time upon these little and formal technicalities. I tell you that if this Convention does not nominate before long — within a few days — I believe that we shall become utterly and irretrievably demoralized and lost. Mr. Loring of Massachusetts, who had not been at the Charleston Convention, his substitute being there, said : Now, as I surveyed the doings of this Convention at Charleston, what did I see? When the platform of principles was discus.sed there, I saw a portion of my party driven, honestly driven, by the declarations therein made, from that Convention, to take their stand upon what they believed to be their constitutional rights. [Applause.] And when I come here to-^^ay what do I see? Why, I see these gentlemen presenting themselves here, and, as I insist, only claiming 172 those ri2;hts wliich tboy have no power to resign to this Convention. They claim their right to sit here as members delegated by their sover- eign States, and answerable to their sovereign States for their doings here. Is that not so? Has this Convention any power to expel or re- tain, to bind or loose? Has it any power to accept my resignation ? Am I not answerable to my constituency, and to them alone — to the party organization that sent me here ? And when T see those gentle- men presenting themselves at the doors of this Convention, the first impulse of my heart is, not to stand here quibbling upon questions of technical right, but to open my arms and welcome them in here [ap- plause], and congratulate the Democratic party of this country. Now, sir, wlien I hear judgment passed here upon any one of these States; when I hear it said that delegates from any one of these States have seen fit to present themselves at the doors of another Convention ; when I hear the judgment passed upon them that they have not been reaccredited to this Convention, I am astonished — I am appalled. I do not understand such a position. I say that these delegates do not need any reaccrediring. The power they formally possessed is still theirs, and I beg and implore this body to give them their seats here, cordially and freely, and receive them here as members of this body. Sir, what is your nomination without that '! I have heard, for the first time in a Democratic Convention, declarations made that there are sections in this country. I had thought I must go elsewhere for that. I have heard enough of that in Massachusetts. I beg this Convention to interpose no obstacle to the admission of these gentlemen. I beg this Convention to invite and assist them to come back ; and let me not be compelled now to vote upon a question which by a single technical point can in any way throw obstacles in their way. I never wish to vote upon it ; but it must come. If I must cast my vote upon it, it shall be for that proposition, whatever it may be, which shall open the doors of this Convention, and allow our brethren freely to come in. [Renewed applause.] * * * Gentlenjen, let me tell you, that if the declaration I have heard here this afternoon, that the State of Florida presents no dele- gates to this Convention, is carried out by a vote of this body, and if it is made in that way a represensation of only a portion of the States of this Union, I will resign my seat, and never be bound by its action. [LQud applause from Southern delegates.] Mr. King of Missouri made a sensation speech — the most unreserved yet in handling delicate subjects. He said : An amendment is offered by the gentlemen from Penn.«ylvania to select some four States, in which he says there is no contest, and to give to delegates of those States certificates accrediting them to this Convention on an equal footing with other delegates. Now, I deny that that is democratic. If there never had been a whisper that these men have a roving commission in their pockets to go liore or yonder, and play fast and loose with this Convention [laughter] — if they came here with clean papers, and nobody disputing that they were delegates, their credentials ought to go to a committee. That is the usage of the party. « ♦ * * « * . * 173 If I find, from the report of the coimiiitteo, that they are accredited to a Convention antagonistic to tliis — and if 1 find tliey liavo been there and elected their officers and taken a recess, and have come here like the man who went to a camp-meeting becau.se he had the right to go there, then the amount of it is that they are not entitleil to seals here. Tbey have come here for mischief. [Applause.] Nuw, if I have no authority, still i verily believe that they intend, if they cannot have things as they want them here, to go hack to ilich- mond, and the powers of heaven and earth will be invoked to bring into condemnation the acts of this Convention. And they intend to put in nomination some man who has neither heels nor bottom enouo'h to get the nomination here, and put him up against tlie nomination of tlie Democratic party. [Applause.] And if it turns out, as 1 believe the facts to be, in reference to their credentials, that they have no ri^bt here, so help me God, they will never get my vote. [Applause.] But if the majority of the Convention overlook all that, and let them in, I will greet them, because they are entitled to my rej-pect. Now, as regards Florida, they throw themselves upon their dignity, like South Carolina. [Laugbter.] They scouted the idea of coming here, and they are not accredited to come, and yet these gentlemen want to bring them in. I say it is the height of absurdity. iSouth Carolina, I am sorry to have it to say, is the only State that has pre- served her dignity. [Laughter.] Let any man study the history of Barnwell Khett and his coadju- tors lu the days of Jackson, and he will find that they would rather dissolve the Union than keep it together. [Applause.] Look at the tone of the Charleston Mercury since the Charleston Convention. It is independent enough to tell the truth, and it does tell the truth. Those delegates who come here from the seceding States are the asso- ciates of those men who say that while the Democratic party has kept its organization together nationally it was a stumbling block to disunion. I wonder, when they come to Richmond, if they will try to keep them- selves from being made an entering wedge to render it asunder. I do not know, but 1 trust they will indulge ni no such scheme. * * * * * * * But: these secessionists tell us that Virginia will go, and then as a matter of course, her daughters, Tennessee and North Carolina, would follow their mammy. And even Kentucky, Maryland and ^Missouri would take the same course. They then say, if you nominate Douglas it will be a sectional nomination as much as that of Seward or Lincoln^ and it would not be long before you would call us Free-Soileis, and even the veriest Abolitionists. Even now it is said that we are a bogus Con- vention.' High legal authority at Washington (the Attorney General, I suppose), [laughter], says we are functus officio. Sq^ I suppose if they do not succeed in disorganizing us, and go to Richmond, then they will call us a bogus concern. ' In conclusion, he called upon the Convention to hold on to the national organization. He did not believe, if eight or ten men could destroy the Union, it was worth preserving. [Applause] He further remarked, that if the delegates from Southern States who 174 would not aliiile the decision of the Convention were to go out, there were other men from the same States just as good, ready to come in. Mr. West of Connecticut proceeded to review the speech of Mr. Loring : f; A portion of delegates have seceded, have withdrawn. Has a man from Connecticut V has a man from New England 'i has a man from the North declared that if certain things were not done they would with- draw from the Convention V No, sir ; not one. We come here in good faitb, with our preferences, it is true, and determined to vote and act like freemen. If you vote us down we will go home and hurrah for your candidate the best we can. * [Applause.] Dcleo-ates have withdrawn ; the Hon. gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Loring), with whom I have not the honor of an acquaintance, says that they were driven from this Convention. I ask, in the name of God, how driven ? Has any thing been done here that has not been done in accordance with the principles and usages of the party ? Yet these gentlemen have left upon the records of this Convention their sol- emn protest when they withdrew. And for what did thej' Avithdraw ? Simply because the majority would not bow down and give them the platform they desired ; such a platform, too, as four years ago they did not ask. [Applause.] I ask the indulgence of this Convention while I read a single sentence from the protest of the Mississippi delegation, although the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Loring) rises in his place and informs the members here that those delegates were driven out of the Convention : "As the representatives of Mississippi, knowing her wishes; as hon- orable men regarding her commands ; we withdraw from the Conven- tion, and, as far as our action is concerned, absolve her from all connec- tion with this body, and all responsibility for its action." Who did that ? Did the North do it ? You came together with us in common council in Cincinnati, and there you gave your unanimous vote for the platform adopted there. Four short years have gone their round, and now you ask us to turn about and place ourselves in a position which would be absolute death to our whole Democratic party of the North. [Applause.] We have fouo-ht the IMa(.-k Republicans at home ; we have been denounced from the pulpit and from the press, and been hissed in the street. And now when we come here and ask you to reaffirm the same principles which every leading man of your party in Congress — in the House of liepre- sentatives and the Senate of the United States — have proclaimed, you even turn around and taunt us with being Black Republicans. ["That is too true," and applause.] Gentlemen talk of the vote of the South being necessary to carry forward and elect the candidate for President. Are not also the votes of the North necessary to do that? Change places with us ; let us make our platform, revive us with life, being and vigor, send cur repre- sentatives to Congress, return our Senators and elect Governors while you go down and tight the enemy, as we have done, and see how you would like it. [Applause.] If you are determined to rend this party and the Union, our homes 175 amid the hills of New England are as safe and as sacred as yours upon your sunny plains with your thousands of slaves around you. [Ap- plause.] And we simply ask that you shall not take a po>ition, and force use to take a position, which will be tantamount to absolute ruin when we return to our constituents. As to your taunts and threats we heed them not. The gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Loring) asks, "Will you be bound?" Certainly; shackle us by your party trammels ; make your decrees here, simply give us the right to speak when we have that rio'ht ; give us the right to vote in common with you, and i pledge you my word you will never hear the word "secession" from the North. [Applause.] An old-fashioned gentleman from Missouri, Mr. Hunter, now gave his colli-ague, Mr. King, some attention. Mr. Hunter stated that Gov. Kino- was not a Democrat, but a sort of Benton man. Mr. Hunter further remarked : When he was told, in Charleston, that Mr. Douglas would not stand upon a certain platform, he had said this Union could get alone just as well if five hundred Douglases were dead and out of the way. [Applause.] If Mr. Douglas were to die to-night, there were five hundred men in the Democratic party who would make just as good a President as he. Mr. Douglas had done and was doing exactly what Benton had done for the party in Missouri ; divided and broken them up. The contest between Benton and the people of Missouri, had beea upon the -Jackson resolution. His colleague (Mr. King), was Governor of Missouri when that resolution was first introduced, and was supposed to be in favor of it. But before the end of the session, he turned against it, and has been with Col. Benton ever since. The old gentleman's quaint remarks put the Convention in a good humor. Mr. Avery of North Carolina — The remarks that have fallen from the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Montgomery), and from Illinois (Mr. Merrick), require a reply at my hands. The speeches of the gentlemen, I suppose, indicate the sentiments of their hearts, a senti- ment I would not entertain toward my Northern brethren to be Presi- dent of the United States. It looks to us at the South as if it were the settled purpose to drive us from this Convention. But there is got to be more said than has been said, before they can drive me from this Convention. Mr. Avery was but very imperfectly heard, but the spirit of his remarks was such as to irritate the Convention again. Mr. Atkins of Tennessee appealed for harmony in the usual way, and with the common meaning, and called the previous question. The call was sustained by an almost unanimous vote, only Illinois and Michigan voting against it. The Convention then adjourned. It was felt at the close of this long and warm debate (it occupied near sis consecutive hours), that the general effect had been to damage Mr. Douglas, whose enemies took courage. The friends of Mr. Doug- las, however, gathered in great strength with their bands of music about the streets, and concentrated iu front of the residence of Hon. 176 Reverdy Johnson, one of th«ir head-quarters, with their bands of music, and there were soon many thousands packed together there. The first speech was by Mr. Powell of New York, who was for Douglas. But a large portion of the crowd was against Douglas, and swayed over toward the Gilmore House, where deafening and persistent cries of " Yancey," " Yancey," were raised. Ex-Senator Soule was the principal speaker from the steps of Mr. John-on's house, though Claiborne of Missouri made a violent speech Judge Meek of Ala- bama and Barry of Mississippi spoke to the Southern crowd. So there were two mass meetings of the Democracy side by side, both in full blast for about three hours, and the speakers of each substantially ia effect, and sometimes in express words, reading the opposing crowd out of the party. The Southerners were the longest winded, and kept up a torrent of speaking and roar of shouting for four hours. It was sur- prising to see that so much of the outside pressure was against Douglas. There was such a tremendous and incessant yelling for Yancey, that a few minutes before twelve o'clock, that gentleman appeared and made one of his handsome silver-toued speeches, which sati?fied the -crowd. For the last hour of the Southern meeting, the Douglasites congregated on the opposite side of the square, and gave three cheers for Douglas at short intervals and kept a band of music playing lively airs. This conflict of jurisdiction was for the most part good-humored. There was a surprising number of people in the streets during the early part of the night ; the strangers in the city being numbered by tens of thou- sands, whilst citizens swarmed forth enjoying the pleasant air, the excellent music discoursed by half a dozen hands, and the excitement of the politicians who were in fervent heat and violent commotion. SECOND DAY Tuesday, June 19tli, 18G0. Convention met, with the expectation on the part of those who had not been informed as to the action taken in caucus, of proceeding at once to vote upon the amendment of Mr. Gilmor. Mr. Church a.>~ked unan- imous consent for the purpose of making a motion that would harmonize the Convention. It was given. Mr. Church had had a consultation with Mr. Gilmor and said : Mr. Gilmor of Pennsylvania has consented to withdraw entirely bis amendment, to my amendment, to Mr. Howard's original resolution, and 1 am prepared to do away with the latter portion of my amendment as offered yesterday, and make it only a reference to the connnittee on Credentials. Mr. Gilmor of Pennsylvania arose and announced in person that he would withdraw his amendment. Mr. Church again arose and withdrew the latter portion of his amend- ment, a^king that it be read by the Secretary as modified. The Convention now came to a vote upon the naked proposition to refer all contested seats to the committee on Credentials, and there was 177 no dissenting voice. The resolution as amended and adopted is as fol- lows : Resolved, That the credentials of all persons claiming seats in this Convention, made vacant by the secession of delegates at Charlc;ston, be referred to the com- mittee on Credentials, and said committee are hereby instructid. as soon as practicable, to examine the same, and report the names of persons entitled to such seats. Some changes were announced by the various delegations in the com- mittee on Credentials, which committee is constituted as follows : Maine — C. D. Jameson. New Hampshire — A. P. Hughes. Vermont — Stephen Thomas. Massachusetts — Oliver Stevens. Rhode Island — George H. Brown. Connecticut — James Gallagher. New York-Del. De Wolf. New Jersey — A. R. Speer. Pennsylvania — H. M. North. Delaware — John H. Bradley. Maryland— W. S. Gittings. Virginia — E. W. Hubbard. North Carolina — R. R. Bridges. South Carolina — G. B. F. Perry. (Jeorgia — Vacancy. Florida — do. Alabama— do. Louisiana — Vacancy, Mississippi — do. Texas — do. Arkansas — do. Missouri — Judge Crum. Chairman. Tennessee — W. H. Carroll. Kentucky— G. F. Wood. Oliio — Mr. Stecdman. Indiana — S. A. Hall. Hlinois — W. Allen. Michigan — J. G. Parkhurst. Wisconsin — Mr. Sniitii. Iowa — Mr. Finch. Minnesota— H. II. Sibley. California — Mr. Gregory. Oregon — Gov. Stevens. There was some difference of opinion as to the time to whicli an ad- journment should be taken, there being, of course, no business which could be transacted in the absence of the committee on Credentials, with the cases of half a dozen delegations pending. An adjournment was carried to five o'clock. EVENING SESSION. A great deal of difficulty was experienced by the delegates in obtain- adniission to the Convention. A new set of tickets had been issued, because the old ones had been counterfeited, and crowds obtained ad- mission who had no business among the delegates. But the two sets of tickets were greatly mixed. A good many delegates had not under- stood the order for a change of tickets, and there was an immense amount of trouble and botheration outside. When the Convention was called to order, Mr. Fisher of Virginia rose to a question of privilege, and denounced the trained bands at the doors of the Convention and the officers of the Convention. He talked of secession from the Con- vention and a dissolution of the Union, in case delegates were not better treated. Mr. Stetson of New York quietly ridiculed the gentleman of Virginia for his portentous speech about a small matter. The chair stated the imperative necessity that existed for guarding the doors. A communication from the committee on Credentials was read. It was badly written and badly read ; and as read, it desired the Convention to continue its sessions. The chair said he would state the substance of the communication ; and this was received with roars of laughter. 12 178 The communication was, of course, that the committee wanted time, and that it iv^quested to be permitted to continue its sessions. There being no business before the Convention, it adjourned in good humor. During the evening the politicians were full of excitement about the proceedings in the committee en Credentials, a personal diflficulty be- tween Messrs, Hindmaa and Plooper of Arkansas, having given them a high flavor. At the time the Convention adjourned there was a heavy shower, and a great many people remained in the theatre ; there were several persona called out to amuse the crowd. Mr. Fisher of Virginia was called out by Marshal Rynders, who led the foolishness. Mr. Fisher got along tolerably well until he pronounced emphatically emfat a-li — something being troubling his vocal organs. Upon this he was cheered down. Then citizen Work of Mississippi — known here as the man with the scar- let vest — was called out, and had much to say of this degenerate age. Even the Democracy was degenerating. The old gentleman swung his hat and cane about his head, scattering his papers fi.r and wide, and told of his fiiendship for Andrew Jackson, making mention of the fact that there were no Jacksons in this dejirenerate age. THIRD DAY. Wednesday, June 20th, 1860. The theatre was greatly crowded this day, and thousands swarmed about the various public places of the city, discussing the ciisis. There was a slight controversy between Messrs. Clark and King, of Missouri, about Col. Benton's democracy; and a communication was read from the Florida delegation, protesting that they were not seeking admission into the Convention. [The fact is they were waiting to be asked, and rather solicitous than otherwise on the subject of an invitation.] Mr. Ludlow of New York stated the committee on Credentials would not be ready to report until 5 o'clock in the afternoon, and the Convention took a recess until that time, when Mr. Stuart of Michi- gan stated the committee would not be able to report until next day; and the Convention adjourned. The city was meanwhile full of rumors about the action of the committee on Credentials, and probable results; and the controversies between the opposing factions were becoming more embittered every hour. FOURTH DAY. Thursday, Juno 21st, ISGO, There was an immense crowd in attendance upon the Convention this day. All the circles of the theatre were densely filled, and the floor allotted to delegates was encumbered by outsiders. Soon after the 179 call to order, the floor in the centre of the Convention jjave wny. The accident wis not serious in itself, but the piinie w;is diin^^erons. Dele- gates rushed in masses to the windows, and clinihed. niiutily as tnon- keys, over the chairs of the reporters seeking, accordinjo; to appear- ances, to place themselves under the protection of the President. As soon as quiet was restored, another sensation was produced hy a person in the gallery spreading his utnhrella, and suspending it over a chan- delier in which the gas was burnino;, as the day was quite dark. There was danger that the umbrella would take fire; and in case it did, all felt that a dreadful alarm would spread throughout the building. A hundred voices ordered the man with the umbrella to withdraw it from the gas, but he stretched bis neck to see what the row was about, and was astonished to sec every b dy looking at him. He heard the call at last, and obeyed the multitudinous commandment. The Convention now took a recess of an hour for the repair of the floor. Delegates were ordered to give up their tickets upon re-entering the ball, that the masses of intruders could be kept out. Upon reassembling, the repnrfs were received from the committee on Credentials. Mr. Krum of Missouri presented the majority report, as follows : MAJORITT REPORT. To the rrmdent of the National Democratic Convention : Sir— The committee upon Credentials rei-pccUuily report, that prior to the adjournment of this Convention at Charleston, ou the 3d of May last, the fol- lowing: resolution was adopted : ''Resolved, That when this Convention adjourns to-day, it adjourn to reassem- ble at Baltimore, Md., on Monday, the 18lh day of June, and that it be respect- fully recommended to the D; mocratic pany of the several States to make provision lor supplying all vacancies in their respective delegations to this Convention when it shall reassemble." On the reassembling of this Convention at Baltimore, the following resolution was adopted : , . •, ^ • i- , i '■FeMdved, That the President of the Convention be authorized to issue tickets of admission to seats in this Convention to the delegates Irom the States of Arkansas, Texas, Florida, and Mis.«issippi. in which States there are no contesting delegations ; and that in those Stales, to wit, Delaware, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana, where there are contesting delegations, a committee on Cr« deutials shall be appointed, by the several delegations, to report upon said States."' By the further order of the Convention, the claims of all other pi rsone claiming seats were also referred to your committee. Your committee, thus instructed, have proceeded to examine the claims of all persons \\hich have been broat'-ht before them. Your committee found that the delegations ot the several States of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, and Morica bad become wholly vacant by reason of the secession of the entire original d^ legar tions from this Convention ; the delegations of the States of Georgia, Arkansas, and Delaware had become vacant in part only from the same cause. In no other State had there been any secession ; but individual seats were contested in the delegations from the States of Massachusetts and Missouri. Aside trom the above, no question contesting the seats of delegates was brought to the notice of your committee. After patient and full luvestigatioQ, your committee arc of opinion that the persons hereinafter named in tie ^^'■'fa- tions. which are herewith submitted as a part of this report, are severally enttled to seats as delegates in this Convention, and they respectfully recommend that they be so received by this Convention. ' From the State of Florida, no credentials of any dtdcgates were presentc d_ to your committee. From the States of Missi»iippi and Texas, no coutesting 180 claimants appear. From Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, and Arkansas, there appeared contesting claimantH for all the vacant seats. Of the four votes to which the State of Arkansas is entitled, the now sitting delegates represent and vote one. The seats representing the remaining three votes had become vacant by the secession of the original delegates. These seats were all contested, one set of contestants consisting of six persons, and the other set consisting of three persons. Your committee are of opinion, that all of these contestants should be admitted to seats as delegates, with the power of voting as hereinafter declared in the resolution herewith reported in that behalf. In the Fifth Congressional District of Massachusetts, it appears that B. F. Hallett and another person were appointed as delegates to this Convention, and K. S. Chattee and another person were appointed suljstitutes. That Mr. Hallett, not being al)le to attend at Charleston, notified Mr. Chaft'ee of that fact, who thereupon proceeded to Charleston, presented his credentials, and was duly ad- mitted to his seat, which he continued to fill at the time of the adjournment of this Convention to Baltimore. At the reassembling of the Convention at Balti- more, Mr. Hallett appeared, claimed the seat which had been awarded to Mr. Chaffee, and receiving the entrance ticket from the chairman of the Massachusetts delegation, actually took possession of the seat. Your committee were of opinion that, when Mr. Hallett had notified Mr. Chaffee that he could not fulfill his duty as delegate, and Mr. Chattee, repairing to Charleston, had been duly admitted to this Convention, his rights to his seat became absolute, and not sub- ject to be superseded at the pleasure of Mr. Hallett, and that Mr. Chattee is now the rightful delegate to this Convention. In the Eighth Electoral District of Missouri the facts are precisely parallel to the above Massachusetts case. The only ditterence is in terms, Johnson B. Clardy having been elected delegate, and John O'Fallau, Jr., having been elected alternate. Your committee, for reasons above stated, are of opinion that Mr. O'Fallau is now the rightful delegate. In regard to the contesting claimants from Georgia, your committee have to report that the evidence adduced before your committee by the respective parties presented a great variety of novel as well as complexed facts and questions, touching the rights of either parties to seats. Your committee, in attempting to solve these difficulties, encountered embarrassments on every hand. After a most patient consideration of the whole matter, it seemed to your committee that the only way of reaching a satisfactory adjustment, is to admit to seats both delegations, with power to each of said delegations to cast one-half of the vote of the State, in the manner expressed in the resolution herewith submitted. This solution seems equitable to your committee, and therefore they recommend the adoption of said resolution. All of which is respectfully submitted. JOHN W. KRUM, Chairman. 1. Resolved, That George H. Gordon, E. Barksdale, W. F. Barry, H. C. Cham- bers, Joseph R. Davis, Beverly Matthews, Charles Clark, Wm. L. Featherstou, P. F. Slidell, C. G. Armistead, Wm. F. Avant, and T. J. Hudson are entitled to seats in this Convention, as delegates from the State of Mississippi. 2. Resolved, That Pierre Soule, F. Coltman, R. C. Wicklifie, Michael Ryan, Manuel White, Charles Brenveneau, Gustavus Leroy, J. E. Morse, A. S. Herron, M. D. Colmar, J. N. T. Richardson, and J. L. Walker are entitled to seats in this Convention, as delegates from the State of Louisiana. 3. Resolved. That R. W. Johnson, T. C. Hindman, J. P. Johnson, Leroy CaroU, J. Gould, and John A. Jordan be admitted to seats, as delegates from the State of Arkansas, with power to cast two votes ; and that Thos. H. Bradley, M. Hooper, and D. C. Cross be also admitted to seats, as delegates from the same State, with power to cast owe w^sired the instruction of their sev- eral constituencies before deciding on their future course. Such was the spirit and purpose of their deliberations at Charleston. They consulted their respective constituencies. In every case except the case of South CaroliTia, their constituencies directed or authorized them — the vacancies being tilled as contemplated in the resolution of the Convention — to repair to Baltimore, and there in earnest efforts with their brethren of the Convention, to endeavor once more to unite their party, and prumote harmony and peace in the great cause of their country. The resolution of the Convention did not pre- judge the qu(!stion, since so strenuously raised, that their withdrawal was a re- signation, but left the whole; question to the said delegates, and their respective constituencies, to the end that every State of this Union might be represented in Baltimore. The committee has passed resolutions, declaring by a vote of 1(1 to 9, that the delegation from Louisiana headed l>y Pierre Soule, by a vote of 14 to 11, that the delegation from Alal)ama headed by Parsons, by a vote of 13 to 10, and that half of each delegation claiming seats from Georgia, are entitlid to scats in the Convention. The resolutions recommended by the undersigned to the Conven- tion, declare the riglit of the delegations elected to Charleston, with vacancies supplied, as contemplated in the resolution of the Convention to which refer- ence has been made, and accrt'dited to Baltimore, to said seats. The committee which thus recommend tlu' irregular delegates from these three States, have re- jected the irregular delegates troin Delaware, and admitted the Charleston dele- gates. It has admitted irregular delegates from Arkansas, and rejected a portion of the Cliarleston delegates, as modilied by the' tilling of vacancies. It has admit- ted the (Charl(!ston) delegates from Mississippi, by a vote of 23 to 2, and the (Cliarleston) delegates from Texas, by a vote of 1!) to 6. The fact that delega- tions are not contested, does not establish tlu; right to seats in the Convention. There may be irregular delegates without cont(^st, and there may be a contest between two sets of irregular delegates. The right of persons to seats as dele- gates is to be det(!rmined by the fact us to whether they were appointed by the constituency which they claim to represent, and appointed according to the usages of said constituency. Wanting these essential prerequisites, they are not 183 entitled to scats, oven if there be no contestants ; and liaviriR Ihi'sc, lliiir right to scats is not impairtd or afl'cctcd by contestants. The committee, in deciding- by a vote of 23 to 2. (hat the Charleston delegates from Mississippi are entitled to seats in the Baltimore Convention, iiavc d«cid(d rightly, just because tliey were duly accreditid to ("luuleston. liave ncvtr since resigned, and hav(! received instructions from (lie State of Missi-^sijipi. Ilircaigh a Convention called of the Democratic Executive Committee of tliu State, to re- turn to Baltimore. The Charleston delegates, both from Alabama and Georgia, stand in precJBcly the same position. They were also duly accredited to Charleston. They with- drew, and never resigned. They returned to their respective constituencies. The Executive Committec^a in these States, as in the case of Missis^ippi. called a Convention of the party. The Conventions met. Tiie delegates, as in the case of Mississippi, submitted their action to tlie Conventions, and these Conventions approved their course, continued their powers, and accredited them to Baltimore. Their rights stand on precisely the same basis, and are sustained by the same authority, as in Mississippi. The contestants were appointed by nobody author- ized to meet according to the usages of the party in these States, and are not entitled to any consideration whatever. In the case of Alabama, the Convention assembled on the call of the Demo- cratic Executive Committee (addressed to the Democracy of the State), was very largely attended, nearly every county in the State having been represented. A small numl)er of persons, however, issued a notice, which was pul)iislied in only three newspapers in the State — in two papers the notice was without signers, and in the third paper (Mol)ile Register), it was signed by John Forsyth and thirty-five others. The notice in one paper called upon all Democrats and all other pa-son." — in the second paper upon Democrats and all conservatives, and in the third paper (Mobile Register), upon the peojjle of Alabama to hold county meet- ings and send delegates to a State Convention to be held in Montgomeiy or Selma, the -Ith day of June, to appoint delegates to Baltimore. Twenty-eight counties only out of fifty-two were represented. It was the coming together of persons from all parties outside of the regular organization to striixc down the Democracy of the State. It was a call without any official authority whatsoever. We thus find the Democracy of the State as- sembling in Convention according to the usages of tlie party, and we find at the same time persons assembling at the call of unauthorized individuals. In the former case the whole State was represented. In the latter about half of the State. Yet the majority of the committee have indorsed the action of the De- mocracy of Alabama and have repudiated, contrary to all pr(cedent. usage, right and justice, the action of the former; not only this, they have n'pudiated the principles of their own action in the case of the Mississippi delegation. But the action of the majority of the committee in the case of Georgia has gone one step further in its disregard of the acknowledged principles of the party. The Convention which the committee put on an equality with the regu- larly authorized Convention, consisted in great part of persons who just parti- cipated in the regular Democratic Convention of the State. The regular called Convention consisted of nearly four hundred delegates, representing nearly all the counties of the State. The resolutions of the Convention having been adopted by a vote of 290 to 41, these latter withdrew from the Convention and organized anew. Thus the majority of your committee have exalted the pre- tensions of less than one-eighth of the delegates ol the State Convention to an equality with the rights of seven-eighths of the Democracy of the State. In the case of Louisiana, the old Convention, which originally appointed the delegates to Charleston, was reassembled, on the call of the Executive Commit- tee of the State, and by a decisive majority accredited the (Charleston delegates to Baltimore. The reasons for this action have their parallels in the case of Texas and Delaware, which have received the sanction of the committee. In Texas, the delegates come back accredited by the Democratic Rxeeutive Commit- tee simplv — it being a manifest impossibility, from want of time, to assemble the party "in a State Convention ; and in Delaware, under the usages and rules of the party, the old Convention was reassembled. In Loui-iana there was time to assemble the old Convention, but not to order an election of delegates in the 184 * several parishes to meet a new Convention. The Executive Committee did every thing; it eoiihi to cjct the expression of the views of the State. It reas- sembled the old Convention, nearly every parisli in the State being represented, and accredited the Charleston delegates to Baltimore. But the Convention whose delegates to Baltimore have been indorsed by the m;iJority of your CDnimiltee. was calhd tit the instance of two local organizations, and of Dr. Cottmaa, a former member of tiie National Executive Committee of the party. The calls were somewhat conflicting. The notice did not reach many parishes in the State. Only twenty parishes out of thirty-nine are pre- teiidid to be represented, and in several of these there is no reason to doubt the fact that the delegates did not leave behind them a single constituent agreeing with them in sentiments. In not a single pari.sh was this call res^ponded to by a majoritj- of tlie Democratic voters. The Convention only represented a very small portion of the party — it was totally irregular, besides. The majority of the committee object to the action of the old Convention on its reassembling at the call of the Executive Committee, on the ground that it was defunct and could not be brought to life. Yet it indorses the action of the other Convention on the call in part of the equally defunct member of the National Committee, Dr. Cottman. Following the usage of Delaware, by the Executive Committee of Louisiana, though manifestly a necessity for the reasons stated, has no weight as a precedent with this majority. Conceding their ground of its being irregular, seats as delegates should be given to the body called by the regular authority and not to the body assembled by no responsible authority whatever, and especially when the former represented the great body of the par- ty and the latter did not. All these considerations, however, have been disre- garded by the majority of the committee, who have persisted, by a vote of 16 to 9, to award the seats as delegates to the representatives of the disorganizing mi- nority Convention. In the case of Arkansas, the majority of the committee propose to divide out the seats to all applicants. In this State the Democratic party were about as- sembling in their District Conventions, consisting of delegates from the several counties of the State, for the nomination of members of Congress, when their delegates return''d from Charleston. As in Texas, there was not time for the as- sembling of a Stale Convention. In these District Conventions, delegates were selected to represent the party at Baltimore. A call was however issued in a Memphis paper, without any signature whatever, calling upon the people of the Northern District to assemble in mass meeting at Madison, to elect delegates to Baltimore. Some four or five hundred men from ten to twelve counties thus assembled and appointed three delegates to Baltimore. The majority of the coiumittee pro- pose to allow these men to vote in the Convention. There are twenty-seven counties and twenty-five thousand voters in the district. Col. Hindman, a dele- gate, elected by the District Convention, to Baltimore, was elected to Congress, in 1858, by eighteen thousand majority, and was unanimously renominated by the Convention which selected him as a delegate to Baltimore. These facts show the significance of the action of the District Convention in electing delegates to Baltimore as representing truly the sentiment of the Democratic party of the district, and they exhibit the utter insignificance of the anonymously called Convention, for it will be borne in mind that it was held at a central point, at the western terminus of the railroad from Memphis, and where several stage and wagon routes mei't. They were elected as delegates generally from the State to the National Convention, with the hope that they might get in without any defi- nite claim. In Massachusetts and Missouri, the contest is between principals now holding their seats and substitutes who held their places at Charleston. In each case the principal was detained at liome by sickness in his family. In each case the principal gave notice to his substitute that hei*hould take his seat at Baltimore. The majority of the committee liold that the principals, elect(;d as such Ijy the proper Conventions, are not entitled to their seats and luive reported according- ly. U'e hold that a substitute is appointed .simply to act in the absence of the principal, and that Iiis authority ceases whenever ilie principal makes his app'ar- ance and takes his seat. We emphatically declare that such has been the iuva- 18$ riablo usa^o in all Conventions of the party, wlictbcr National or State, and that it is based on reason and the repressentutive prineipU'. AH which is respectfully submitted, IRA AC i. STKVRNS. Orejron. A. R. SPHKFJ. New Ji rsey. H. M. NORTH. Pcnnsvlvania. JNO. II. liKWLEY. Ihlaware. E. W. IIUHBARn. Virsjiiiia. R. R. BRIDGERS. North Carolina. VVM. H. CARROLL, Tennessee. GEO. II. MORROW, Kentucky. D. S. GREGORY, California. In the points of ditference between the majority and minority reports of the committee on Credentials, I concur in the conclnsions of the minority report in the cases of Georgia, Alabama, Missouri and Massachusetts. AARON V. HUGHES, New Hampshire. Mr. Stevens — It will be observed that the committee are nearly unanimous, and the two reports agree in the ca.se of Texas, Missouri and Delaware. I am requested to state that the delegate from Tennes- see dissents from a portion of the conclusion of the committee, but votes under instruction of his co-delegates; also that the gentleman from New Hampshire agrees with the report of the minority, in the case of Georgia, Alabama, Massachusetts and Missouri. Mr. W. S. Gittings of Maryland also made a report, which he sub- sequently withdrew. Mr. Krum took the floor, and after a few remarks yielded it to Mr. Stevens. He was appealed to, at this moment, to move the previous question on the report. The question then was whether he had yielded temporarily or entirely to Mr. Stevens, and whether he could resume the floor. There was a long contest on the point of order, ending by Mr. Stevens moving the previous question. He could well afford to do this, as his report was universally acknowl- edged to be a remarkably strong document, presenting the case of the seceders in the clearest possible light and with singular skill. It at once became evident that New York was shaky. Several of her dele- gates made appeals for an adjournment, that New York might have time for consultation While the Convention was struggling toward an ad- journment, Mr. Butler of Mass. announced that the tickets furnished delegates had been forged, and that crowds of intruders admitted by forged tickets were on the floor of the Convention. In order to accommodate New York, the committee took a recess until half-past four o'clock. The demand of New York for time to consider, was a surprise, as it was known that she had been in caucus on the very point regarding which she was undecided, and had concluded, by a small majority, to .sustain the majority report. At the hour to which the Convention took a recess, the theatre was crowded in every part except the seats of the New l^orkers, which were vacant. Mr. Ludlow presently appeared and apologized for New York, and asked more time. In a hopeless sort of way the Convention adjourned. The Douglas men were rather disheartened. They would have voted against an ad- journment, but it would have been useless. New York was profoundly anathematized for her dishonest and cowardly procrastination. The immediate impression was that the New Yorkers were at the last mo- ment proposinoj to slaughter Douglas. The streets were full of excited men, and the atmosphere electric with a personal war-spirit. Ju^t before the a(ijf)urnniont, Mr. Montgomery, mejnber of Congress from Penn- sylvania, miule a disturbance about tickets of admission to the hall, and Mr. Randall of Pa., questioning his statements, he spoke of Mr. Ran- dall in a very sneering way as "This poor old man." A sensation scene followed. After adjournment, a son of Mr. Randall wiiited for Mr. Montgomery on the street, and rushini; up, dealt him several severe blows in the face, causing the blood to flow profusely. Montgomery, a powerful man, recovering from the shock of the assault, knocked Randall, a slender little fellow, down. The crowd then separated them. There was inten.^e excitement throughout the evening. Rumors as to the action of the New York delegation were constantly circulated. About nine o'clock it became understood that New York had agreed to sustain the mnjority report. Her delegation had divided upon the sev- eral propositions of the report, and had sustained them all by a consider- able majority. This news greatly reassured the friends of Mr. Douglas, and they became exultant. They had been, however, gradually for a couple of days thinning out, and the outside pressure turning against them. However, tliey rallied as usual in Monument Square, and were more noisy and arrogant than ever. The Southerners also congregrated and, according to custom, cried " Yancey," " Yancey." The Plugs also turned out strong, and diversified the exercises by many times giving " Three cheers for Bell and Everett." These mass meetings at night did much to exasperate the pending con- troversy. They were held side by side, and the prevailing sentiment in each was hostility to the other. The friends of Douglas denounced the others as disorganizers, bolters, traitors, and disunionists. The Southerners called the Douglasites a sneaking species of Abolitionists. Douglas delegates from Pennsylvania declared that, if any of the dele- gation from that State, or any other Northern State, refused to confirm the nomination of Douglas, or joined the Seceders' Convention, they would not dare return to their families. At the steps in front of the residence of Reverdy Johnson, the true test of Democracy would ap- pear to be devotion to Douglas. At the balcony of the Gilniore House, the test seemed to be hostility to Douglas. It was the habit of hun- dreds of noisy fellows to appear every night in the square and cry "Yancey," Yancey," at the top of their voices for hours. Yancey on two occasions responded. He said he was neither for the Union 'per se, nor against it per se, but he was for the Constitution. He denounced the friends of Douglas as small men, with selfish aims — as corrupt and abolitionized. They were ostrich-like — their head was in the sand of squatter sovereignty, and they did not know their great, ugly, ragged abolition body was exposed. Mr. Hunter of Louisiana, in announcing the action of the committee on Credentials, said there were men on that connnittee who should not cross his threshold — and a lady of his family should not speak to them. They were men without honor or decency. The Douglas men had blowed and bragged about their honor, and in so doing they lied, and now they lied. They talked of carrying the cotton States. The Louisiana 187 delegation was reacly to enter into bonds to bet one million of dollars that Douglas could not carry one of those States. He dared Douglas men who had tulked of betting to face the music of that proposition. He spoke of Douglas and his followers as bankrupts in porket and princij)le, as profligates and impostors and cowards. The Douglas oratois were all the while proclaiming the greatness and honor of their candidate — and assuming that all opposition to him was treason to the party, and must be ranked as Southern disunionisin or Northern Aboli- tionism. On the outskirts of the mass meetings every evenit:g were to be seen scores of groups of men, crowding close and talking, imt loudly, but with deep emphasis, every group concentrating and intensifying the greater antagonism of the mass meetings. The Southerners would be claiming "all the rights of the slaveholding States as co-eijual States," and the Northerners by turns beseeching their opponents for a living chance for success, and threatening them with an Aboliiion President. The controversies would become personal. A Douglasite would sneer- ingly ask : "What office has old Buchanan given you-V" And the response would be: "What office has Douglas promised you?" 31eanwhile personal difficulties were occurring at short intervals, and the cauldron boiled and bubbled more and more. There was the Hindman and Hooper difficulty, the Whiteley and Townsend difficulty, and the Montgomery and llandall difficulty, and fitty others of less note. FIFTH DAY B.A.LTIMORE, Friday, June 22d. Definite action was expected this morning, and there was an immense crowd in the circles of the theatre, while the floor, by the adoption of precautions against interlopers, was tolerably clear. The President stated that the Convention had, on the previous day, ordered "the main question to be now put." The majority and minor- ity reports from the committee on Credentials were now read. Mr. Gittings of Maryland withdrew the report which he had offered. Mr. Krum of Missouri, as chairman of the committee on Credentials, was allowed to close the debate upon it, and made a reply to Stevens's minority report. It was ineflfectual, however, entirely fjiiling to break the force of the document by the gentleman from Oregon. The Hon. Bedford Brown of North Carolina now attempted a speech. He said it would give him " infinite pleasure to pour oil upon the agitated waves" — when Mr. Gorman of Minnesota called him to order. Mr. Stevens of Oregon wished to utter a single sentence, but Stuart of Michigan objected, and insisted upon proceeding to business. The first question was upon the proposition of Mr. Stevens of Oregon, which was moved as a substitute for the report of the committee. Just here occurred an illustrative specimen of the style of ruling by Mr. Gushing. On the motion of Mr. Stevens, the chair said : The chair understands that motion to be equivalent to a motion to 188 strike out and insert, and although the chair feels that there may be some doubt as to what should be the construction of a case like this, of indeed what is the true construction of the universal rule that a motion to strike out and insert is indivisible, without going into the question whether that universal declar-itiou applies to that motion itself or what is behind the motion, the chair has on reflection come to tlie conclusion to rule that this motion to strike out and insert is indivisible, and there- fore unless overruled by the Convention, he will be prepared to pui the question to the Convention upon the series of resolution in block. Having come to that conclusion upon of courje a prima facie reflec- tion upon the subject, subject to being overruled, the chair had conceived that if the resolution oflfered by the gentleman from Oregon should be adopted on a motion to strike out and insert, then they would be divisi- ble, and the separate propositions contained in the report of the minority would be susceptible of being voted upon separately; or if the motion of substitution should be rejected, then upon the Convention being brought to a vote upon the resolutions presented by the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Kruin), those propositions would be separable. Mr. Cochrane of New York appealed from the decision of the chair and made a speech on the point, and then withdrew his appeal. There were now loud cries of " Question," "question." The vote was taken on the substitution of the minority for the majority report. At this moment the chair made a suggestion, that in the declaration of the vote " being of a momentous character in its party relations," involving much interest and emotion, there should not be any manifestations of approbation. The chair remarked : If the Convention will itself set that example of dignified decorum in the gravest of all possible questions in which any of us can be placed, it will be surely for the advantage of the Convention and of our common public interests. The vote was as follows : Ayp:s — Maine 2|-. New Hampshire k, Vermont I5, Massachusetts 8, Connecticut 2i, New Jersey 4, Pennsylvania 17, Delaware 2, Mary- land 65, Virginia 14, North Carolina 9, Arkansas k, Missouri 5, Ten- nessee 10, Kentucky 10, Minnesota 1|, California 4, Oregon 3 — 100^. Navs — Maine 5^, New Hampshire 4^, Vermont 85, Massachusetts 5, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 3^, New York 35, New Jersey 3, Pennsylvani'i 10, Maryland 'Ik, Virginia 1, North Carolina 1, Arkan- sas ^, Missouri 4, Tennessee 1, Kentucky 2, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 2;| — 150. While the States were called on this vote, there was the most pro- found and solemn silence. The decisive vote of New York was given promptly, and caused a fluttering, as it was known to decide the result of the contest at that point. The resolutions of the regular report of the committee were now reported and read by the Secretary in their order. The vote was then taken on the first resolution admitting the regular delegation from Mississippi, and it was adopted by ayes 250, nays 2^. The nays were, Pennsylvania 2, Iowa ^. 189 Mr. Rynders of New York — Mississippi Viaving been admitted, I ask if she is not entitled now to vote V Mr. Cochrane of New York said that until the last branch of the resolutions had been disposed of the whole question liad not been put and determined. The vote was then taken on the second resolution, admitting the Louisiana contestants, and it was adopted by yeas 153, nays 1)8, as follows : Yeas — Maine 51, New Hampshire 4k, Vermont 3^^. Massachusetts 5. Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 3^, New York 35, New Jersey 2|, Pennsylvania 10, Maryland 2h, Vn-ginia 1, North Carolina 2, Arkan- sas h, Missouri 4, Tennessee 2, Kentucky 2, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6. Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 2| — 153. Nays — Maine, 2i, New Hampshire -J, Vermont ^. Massachusetts 8, Connecticut 2^, New Jersey 4^, Pennsylvania 17, Delaware 2. Mary- land 55, Virginia 13, North Carolina 8, Arkansas 5, Missouri 5, Ten- nessee 10, Kentucky 10, Minnesota 11, California 4, Oregon 3 — 98. There was no longer any doubt about the disruption of the Conven- tion. It was merely a question of time, and the time short. Some of the delegates seemed singularly pleased ; their good humor was admira- ble. Others took it hard, and pursed up their brows, twisted their mouths in the firmest possible attitude, and looked at once fierce and sad. Dean Richmond was the pivotal personage. There was not a minute but some one was whispering in his ear. Peter Cagger found something funny all the while, and laughed until his face was red as the heart of a beet. The vote having been declared in the Louisiana case, the third reso- lution was read as follows : Resolved, That R. W. Johnson, T. C. Hindman, J. V. Johnson. De Rosey Car- roll, J. Gould, F. W. Hoadley and John A. Jordan be admitted to seuts as dele- gates from tht! State of Arkansas, with power to cast kvo votes, and that Thomas H. Bradley, M. Hooper and D. C. Cross be also admitted to seats as delegates from the same State, with power to cast one vote ; and in case either portion of said delegates shall refuse or neglect to talsouri 5, Tennessee 10, Kentucky 10^, Minnesota 'li, California 4, Oregon 8 — lOU. New Hampshire ^ declined voting. The resolution was ace-ordingly adopted. Mr. Cessna of Pennsylvania moved to reconsider the vote just taken, and that that motion be laid upon the table. The motion was received and ordered to be entered upon the journal. The 9th and last resolution of the series was then read, as follows: 9. Resolved, That the delegation from the State of Georgia, of which H. L. 192 Benning is eliairman, be admitted to the Convention, with power to cast one- bait' of the vote of said Slate ; and that the delegation from said State, of which Col. Gardner is chairman, be also admitted to the Convention, with power to cast our'-lialf of the vote of said State, and if either of said delegations refuse or neglect to cast the vote as above indicated, that in snch case the delegates present in the Convention be authorized to cast the full vote of said State. There was a contest as to whether this resolution was divisible. The chair ruled that it was divisible. Mr. Atiiins of Tennessee — I trust the Convention will proceed to consummate its work. [Applause.] We have nearly completed this work, and I hope that no gentleman opposed to these resolutions will interpose any thing to delay the work of this Convention. [Applause and hisses.] The man that hisses is a viper and a coward. [Applause.] Mr. Seward of Georgia attempted to obtain the floor, and presented a let- ter which he wished read. Objections were made and it was not read. [It was understood that the letter was from Col. Gardner, the chair- man of the contesting delegation from the State of Georgia, notifying the Convention that they withdrew from all further contest.] Mr. Jones of Tennessee — At the request of several gentlemen I withdraw my call for a division of the question. The President stated the question to be upon agreeing to the entire resolution, as originally reported by the Secretary to the Convention. The question being then taken by States upon the resolution, it was rejected — yeas lOH-^, nays 145 — as follows : Yeas — Maine 4, New Hampshire 2, Vermont 85, Massachusetts 5, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 3i, New Jersey 2, Pennsylvania 9^, Maryland 2, Virginia 1, North Carolina 1, Arkansas i, Missouri 4, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 2^ — 106i-. Nays — Maine 4, New Hampshire 3, Vermont li, Massachusetts 8, Connecticut 8|, New York 35, New Jersey 5, Pennsylvania 17^, Del- aware 2, Maryland 6, Virginia 14, North Carolina 9, Arkansas ^, Mis- souri 5, Tennessee 12, Kentucky II5, Minnesota 1-|, California 4, Oregon 3 — 145. During all this voting the Convention wa.s strangely silent. " Not a drum was heard, nor a funeral note." There was not a rattle of ap- plause nor a hiss for an hour and a half. The vote of New York — '' thirty-five no," in the case of Georgia, caused a buzz of astonishment. Mr. Church of New York said his delegation had no opportunity to vote on the admission of delegates from Georgia, as they deemed right, and they now proposed to make a motion that the delegates from Geor- gia, of which Mr. H. L. Benning is chairman, be admitted to seats in the Convention. Mr. Hallett of Massachusetts (author of the Cincinnati Platform) got the floor and made a speech, though Stuart of Michigan raised points of order on him. The parliamentary contest was highly interest- ing. Mr. Hallett had, however, voted with the majority on the ninth proposition, and had moved to reconsider. In the midst of the confu- sion, the main question wss put on the resolution admitting the delega- 193 t'on, of which Mr. Benning of Georgia was chairman, to seats, and it was adopted. Mr. Hallett was again recognized on the floor, and made his speech, explaining the circumstances of the contest for his seat. He entered into the general subject, saying : And you are now upon the eve of what ? After having severed your Convention from eight of the Southern States, you are now upon the very verge — are about to consummate that blow — which shall send out the other six or seven States, and then what is this Convention V Nay, what is the great Democratic party of this Union ? Nay, in God's name, what is the Union itself? He appealed to New York to come forward and save the country. He said : When the great question is, shall you have any Union to which we can give a President, and shall you have any Democratic party to elect a President, why not then come forward, young men, and sustain this measure of reconciliation and sustain the Union ? Let it not be broken up. I say to you this is no light matter. I say to you the impending crisis is only the more awful because it is silent. It is hushed, it is true, but it is here all around me. You know, sir, every honorable man knows, that if the resolutions of that committee which I am now desir- ing to be reconsidered prevail in this Convention, that you have a dis- severed Convention. The States that are standing knocking at your doors will never come in and pass under the yoke. Southern chivalry will prevent that, [xipplause.] The States that are here now will ad- here to the Democratic Union, or they will adhere to their own South. They will never stay here to the disgrace of their brother States outside. [Applause.] And then what will you do ? Make a nomination V — a nomination which, tendered to any man, is but the ruin of that man, and the ruin of that party which desires it. I stand here to-day a personal friend of the man whose friends are about to sacrifice him, as I view it. [Laughter and applause.] Ah, I would rather see him elevated to the Presidency than any other man in this Union, if it could be done with- out the destruction of this party — without the dissolution of this Con- vention. But no — men here say, let us have this man or none; we will have no other but him. Where is the discriminating justice which shall impel you to the adjustment of this great question ? Mr. Hallett moved that the Convention take a recess until five o'clock. Mr. Stuart of Michigan moved to lay the motions to reconsider upon the table. This was a movement to consummate the action of the Con- vention on the report from the committee on Credentials. Mr. Russell, chairman of the Virginia delegation — Mr. President, I wish, before the Couvention adjourns, to make an announcement in be- half of the Virginia delegation. I wish to do it at the proper time. [Sensation.] This was the announcement of Virginia that she was about to lead the column of the new secession. A motion, that when the Convention adjourn it be to meet at five- 13 194 o'clock in the aftornooo, was put, the vote taken by States, and lost — - yeas S2i, nays 168. Mr. Cessna of Pennsylvania called up the several motions to recon- sider, with the accomf)an)ing motions to lay on the table. The President stated the first question to be upon layino; upon the table the motion to reconsider the vote by which the Convention refused to substitute the resolutions reported by the minority of the committee on Credentials for those reported by the majority of said committee. Upon this question the State of Tennessee demanded a vote by States, which was ordered. The question being then taken by States, the motion to lay on the table was not agreed to — yeas 1131, nays 138^ — as follows : Yeas — Maine 5^, New Hampshire 3, Vermont 4|-, Massachusetts 5, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 3^, New Jersey 3|, Pennsylvania 10, Maryland 2, North Carolina 1, Arkansas ^, Missouri 4^, Kentucky 2, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan G, Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 2i — 113^. Nays — Maine 2i, New Ilampshire 2, Vermont i, Massachusetts 8, Connecticut 2^^, New York 35, New Jersey 3i, Pennsylvania 17, Del- aware 2. Maryland 6, Virginia 15, North Canjlina 9, Arkansas ^, Mis- souri 4^, Tennessee 12, Kentucky 10, Minnesota 1^, California 4, Oregon 3 — 138^. And so at the last moment New York flinched from the consumma- tion of the work preparatory to the division of the Convention. Her vote, cast in the negative on this ballot, left the question still open, that is, the action taken by the Convention might be reconsidered. There was an intense sensation in the Convention, and a recess until seven o'clock in the evening was immediately taken. During this recess, the interest of the thousands of politicians con- centrated in Baltimore, and indeed of the whole country within reach of the telegraph, was wrought up to the highest pich. The New York delegation was denounced on every side as composed of tricksters and barijainers. The fiiends of Douglas lost faith in them, and emulated the Southerners in showering epithets upon them. A rumor of a despatch f om Djuglas to Dean Richmond, virtually withdrawing his name, leaked out. Its existence was fiercely denied by the stiaight Douglas men. Richardson was very emphatic in say- ing there was not one word of truth in the report ; and many disbe- lieved it, because they belie vexl Richardson to be the only medium through which Douglas would communicate with the Convention. Frienils of Richardson said it would be a personal insult to him, if Doug'as should despatch fo Dean Richmond. There was a despatch, however, as afterward appeared. It was as follows : W.s riNOTOx J mu 22d— 9J A. M. To Dean RrcuMONi). Chairman of Delecration. lialtiniore : The steadi uss willi which N w York has smtaiiied in; will justify a word of couasel. The f-affty of the cause is the paramount duty of every Democrat. The unity of tb'p.irly and the mainteuance of its [)riiic!iiles inviolate are more important than the election or defeat of any individual. II my eiiemies are dctermimd to divide and destroy the Democratic parly, and. jjeilinps, the coun- try, rallier t'aau see me elected, aud if the uaity of the party caa be preserved, 195 and its a,«condancy porpetiiatod by drnppinp: m)' name arul unitinp; npnn porno othiT r.'liiilili! Non-iiitcrvoriMoii and Uiiion-loviiij;- Democrat. I hcscicli yon. in ConsiiltLitioii with onr friends, to jjiirsiKi that course which will sav(? th- party and the conntry, without regard to my individnal iiitcrests. I mean all this let- ter implies. Consult freely and act boldly for the right. (Signed) S. A. DOUOLAP. It would appear that this was sent to Richmond, because a letter con- taining similar sugizestions, had been forwarded to Riehiird>on, who kept it in his pocket. Douglas finding that Richnrd.-on would not coimnu- nicate his wish to withdraw to the Convention, telegraphed to Ilichniond, who suppressed the despatch, as Richardson had suppressed the letter. It was a-^serted in Baltimore, and believed in political circles, that during this recess New York offered to reconsider her vote on the Lou- isiana case, and make up the Convention out of the original materials, with the exception of the Alabama delegation. They could not agree to admit Yancey & Co. But the seceders and their friends would not hear to any such proposition. They scorned all compromise, assuming that their rights were undoubted and their title clear; they would not bargain away any portion whatever of their claims. EVENING SESSION. The long looked-for *' Crisis " a hundred times postponed, arrived at last. The Convention was called to order a few minutes after t:even o'clock. The President stated the pending question to be upon reconsidering the vote by which the Convention refused to substitute the resolutions submitted upon the part of the minority of the committee on Creden- tials in place of the resolutions submitted by the majority of said com- mittee. The question being taken by States, the motion to reconsider was not agreed to — yeas 113, nays 139 — as follows: Yeas — Maine 2^, New Hampsliire 2, Vermont 1, Massachusetts 8, Connecticut 2^, New Jersey 4^, Pennsylvania 17, Delaware 2, Mary- land 6. Virginia 15, North Carolina 9, Arkansas i, Missouri 4^, Ten- nessee 10, Kentucky 10, Minnesota H, California 4, Oregon 3 — 113. Nays — Maine 5|, New Hampshire 3. VermonJ. 4, Massachusetts 5, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 3^, New Yoik 35, New Jersey 2i, Penn- sylvania 10, Maryland 2, North Carolina 1, Arkansas i, Missouri 4^, Tennessee 2, Kentucky 2. Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 2^, — 139. New York's "Thirty five votes no" given in the quick sharp tones of Peter Cagger, settled this as all other con'esfed questions. The motions to reconsider the votes by which the resolutions of the majority report had been adopted, and to lay those motions on the table, were now in order. Upon those motions being carried the action in each case was final and irrevocable. The motion to lay on the table the morion to reconsider the vote by which the Convention adopted the re>olution of the inaj rity report of the committee, on the State of Mississippi, was carried without a divis- ion. 196 The next question was upon the motion to lay upon the table the motion to reconsider the vote by which the Convention adopted the majority resolution in relation to delegates from Louisiana. The question being taken by States, the motion to lay on the table was agreed to — yeas 150^, nays 99 — as follows: Yeas — Maine 5i, New Hampshire 4^-, Vermont 4^, Massachusetts 5, Rhode Island 4, Connecticut 3^, New York 35, New Jersey 2^, Penn- sylvania 10, Maryland 2, North Carolina 1, Arkansas i, Missouri 4, Tennessee 2, Kentucky 2, Ohio 23, Indiana 13, Illinois 11, Michigan 6, Wisconsin 5, Iowa 4, Minnesota 2i — 1501. Nays — Maine 2i, New Hampshire 1^-, Vermont i, Massachusetts 8, Connecticut 2i, New Jersey 4i, Pennsylvania 17, Delaware 2, Mary- land 6, Virginia 15, North Carolina 8^, Arkansas Ih Missouri 4i, Tennessee 10, Kentucky 10, Minnesota U, California 4, Oregon 3 — 99. The next question was upon laying upon the table the motion to re- consider the vote by which the Convention adopted the majority resolu- tion in relation to delegates from Arkansas. The question being taken, the motion was agreed to. The next question was upon same motion in relation to Texas. The question being taken, the motion to reconsider was laid upon the table. The next question was upon the same motion in relation to Delaware, and the motion to lay upon the table was agreed to. The same with regard to the resolution in relation to Massachusetts, and the resolution in relation to Missouri. The next question was upon the motion to lay upon the table the motion to reconsider the vote upon the resolution in relation to Ala- bama — the motion was agreed to. The same with regard to the vote of the Convention, rejecting the resolution of the majority in relation to Georgia. The same with regard to the resolution of Mr. Church of New York, admitting original delegation from Georgia. Mr Cessna of Pennsylvania — I now offer the following resolution : Resolved, That this Convention do now proceed to nominate candidates for President and Vice-President of the United States, And on that resolution I call the previous question. Mr. Stansbury of Maryland moved to adjourn sine die. Mr. McKibben of Pennsylvania seconded the motion. New York demanded a vote by States. The motion was withdrawn. Mr. Russell of Virginia had been for some time standing, very pale, nervous and solemn, in his chair, and now obtained the ear of the chair and the Convention, and desired to make an " announcement,'' Mr. Gorman of Minnesota objected to the gentleman's proceeding, and emphatically refused to withdraw his objection. The President desired to hear what proposition it was that the gentleman from Virginia had to make. Mr. Ku.ssell at length said : I understand that the action of this Convention upon the various questions arising out of the reports from the committee on Credentials, 197 has become final, complete and irrevocable. And it has become my duty now, by direction of a lar^c; majority of the delejration from Vir- ginia, respectfully to inform this body tliat it is inconsistent with their convictions of duty to participate longer in its deliberations. There was a mingled din of applause and hisses, cries of order, of a highly sen.«ational character. The greater tumult, so far as the galleries were concerned, seemed to be that of approbation — the Douglas out- side pressure having for some days subsided rapidly. The chair ordered the galleries cleared. He did not, however, attempt to enforce the or- der. The disorder lasted some minutes. Mr. Russell remained standing, and when his voice could be heard, said that all of the delegates to whom tickets of admission had been is- sued, who were regarded as National Democrats by the Democracy of Virginia, would refuse to enter the hall. The reasons which impelled the representatives of the State of Virginia to leave the Convention, would he rendered to the Democracy of Virginia, and to them alone. The V^irginians, with a few exceptions, when Mr. Russell ceased speak- ing, rose in a body, and passing into the aisles, proceeded to leave the theater, shaking hands and bidding personal friends good by, as they retired. Mr. Moffatt, one of those who remained, commenced a speech, but gave way to Mr. Lander of North Carolina, who announced that eight out of the ten votes of that State retired. He said : The rights of sovereign States and of gentlemen of the South, have been denied by a majority of this body. We cannot act, as we con- ceive, in view of this wrong. Mr. Ewing of Tennessee announced that ten out of the twelve votes of that State" retired to consult. He spoke of the disposition of the Tennessee delegation to harmonize. " They were the first, when the majority platform was not adopted, to seek for some proposition for compromise — something that would enable us to harmonize. They have a candidate that was dear to them. They cast away his proi^pect for the sake of harmony. They have yielded all that they can." Col. Caldwell, chairman of the Kentucky delegation, asked leave to retire to consult. Mr. Stuart of Michigan ohjected, for the reason that business could not be transacted while a State was absent by permis- sion of the Convention. It being understood that the delegation wished to retire but for a few minutes, Mr. Stuart withdrew his ob- jection. Mr. McKibben — Mr. President, I want to understand if the gentle- man from Michigan is the manager of the theatre '? [Laughter.] [The point of this inquiry was the fact that the Douglas men fol- lowed implicitly the directions and suggestions of Mr. Stuart, who was so sharp a parliamentarian and adroit manager, that even the chairman (Cushing) was believed to regard him with something of dread. It is certain that 3Ir. Cushing always gave attention to Mr. Stuart, and usually yielded to him on contested points. Mr. Stuart's points of or- der were almost always admirably taken.] Mr. Johnson of Maryland made a speech withdrawing half the dele- gation from that State. He said : 198 We have made all sacri6ces for the grand old Democratic party, wluse mission it. has been to preserve the Constitution and to care for the Kepulilic for more than sixty years, until it now seems as if you were going to substitute a man in the place of principle. [Calls to or- der.] I desire to be respectful. I desire to say that the action of the majnrity of the late Convention — a majority created by the operation of a technical unit rule imposed upon the Convention, contrary to Demo- cratic precedent and usage — States have been disfranchised and dis- tricts deprived of their rights, until, in our opinion, it is no longer con- sistent with our honor or our rights, or the rights of our constituents, to remain here. Mr. Glass of Virginia withdrew himself from the Convention. Mr. Waterson of Tennessee, one of the delegates from that State who had declined to secede, said there were some gallant spirits from the land of Jai;kson who would remain. He had no fears that the Con- vention would refuse to indorse the Cincinnati Platform. Mr. Jones of Tennessee hoped that the delegates of that State who had retired to consult, would tind their way back into the Convention. Mr. Jones said he bad been a Democrat ever since he first drew milk from his mother's breast. JMr. Smith of California said : While I cannot say with the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Jones) that my Di-mucracy dates back to that time of which I have no recollec- tion, yet I can say that it is as unspotted as the vault of heaven. Cal- ifornia is here with melancholy faces. [Laughter.] California is here with a lacerated heart, bleeding and weeping over the downfall and de- struction of the Democratic party. [Applause and laughter.] Yes, sir, the destruction of the Democratic party, consummated by assassins now grinning upon this floor. [Loud cries of "Order," "order," "Put him out," and great confusion.] Mr. Smith, "in no spirit of i)raggadocla," said that "if any one took exceptions, he knew his remedy." He proceeded : This Convention has properly been held in a theatre, and upon that stage a play has been enacted this evening that will prove a tragedy of which the Demo-ratic party will be the victim. [Mingled hisses and applause.] I then do state that there have been wrongs perpetrated upon the Democracy of that deep and damning character that it does not permit California longer to participate in the proceedings of this irregular organization. [Laughter.] Irregular! and why irregular '? Irregular because there has not been a single afBrniative proposition carried through this body that has not been done through a resolution that cannot be characterized by any other term than that used by a del- egate from Illinois — a trick. [Loud cries of "Order," "order," and great confusion.] Mr. Merrick of Illinois demanded the name of the delegate referred to from that State, and what he said. After a protracted scene of con- fusion, Mr. Smith remarked that the Convention acted very much like a child taking medicine. He said : I will repeat, without the fear of the slightest contradiction, that the resolution passed at Charleston, known as the " Cessna resolution," by 199 virtue of wliicli the minority of tliis Convention have been ennhled to cast tho majority vote, and thus heating down or carryin*^ tlirongh and enactini>; every measure thiit has been so repul.-ive to the deh'p;iifes who have withdrawn — I say that that resolution was acknowledged in sub- stance to me to he a delil)i'rate, willful, premeditated trick. This was received with roars of disorder. There was wild excite- ment, and a tempest of calls to order. Mr. Smith yelled that he would say what he had to say, and the Convention should hear him. Mr. Merrick of Illinois was upon a chair, crying, " Name the delegate from lUinoi.s " — " tell us what he said." Tho chair declared Smith out of order. His time under the fifteen minute rule had expired. He in- sisted that, the time taken up in interruptions should not come out of his time. He was as hard to choke off as a bull-dog, but all the Douglas men in the house, aided by the President, succeeded in getting him down, when he retired at the head of the Oregon delegation. Mr. Stevens of Oregon rose. He had "a most melancholy duty to perform." He had not allowed his feelings to get the belter of his judgment. He concluded by saying : We did hope, when this Convention reassembled at Baltimore, that it would bring together the Democratic party in every sovereign State. We find ourselves grievou.ely mistaken. By your action to-day, gentlemen as much entitled to seats as ourselves, in our opinion, are excluded from the floor. We do not mean to impugn the motives of others, but are conscious that a most grievous wrong and insult has been given to sovereign States. These States are the weak parties in this contest, and we have resolved to stand by them and assert their rights. I now announce that the delegation from Oregon have come to the con- clusion to withdraw from the deliberations and take no further part in them. Mr. Moffat of Virginia, who had sought the floor for some time, now obtained it. He made an eloquent speech, saying of the representa- tives of Virginia — " We were thirty when we came in — now we are but five." He said he would stand by that Convention through weal and through woe. He said : I am an out-and-out pro-slavery man. I believe in the institution all the time. I believe it is right morally, socially and politically. I have fought in my State for the extension of pro-slavery views. lama Southern man, and interested with the people of Virginia in having pro- tection for our property. I ask you who are true to us in the North, not to desert us, but to stand by and defend us henceforth as you have done in times past [voices, "We'll do it,"], and so help me God, I will defend you as long as I have confidence in you. [Loud applause, and cries of "Good," " good."] I will never fight my friends. In the name of common sense, have not we enough of higher law, revolutionary, abolition scoundrels in the North to fight, without fighting our friends V [Applause.] Must we fight the men who stood on the platform at Cincinnati in 1856, and kick them off and break up the Democratic party ? Mr. Davis of Virginia made a speech. He was a Henry A. Wise 200 man. He said he eoulrl not see how Judgje Douglas could be the nominee of the Convention. He came to Baltimore to try to prevent it, at any rate. He meant to fight inside the Domocratio party. He be- lieved Gov. Wise, if nominated, could carry Virginia by 30,000 votes. He would be for Wise first, last, and all the time, if he were permitted to present his name, but he was not so authorized. Here a motion was made to adjourn and a vote by States called on it. Ayes 18d— nays 2101 . Mr. Cessna of Pennsylvania — I now ask the chair to ascertain from the Convention whether or not there is a second to my demand for the previous question upon the resolution to proceed to ballot for candidates for the Presidency and Vice Presidency. Mr. Clark of Missouri asked permission for a portion of the delegation of that State to retire and consult. He also a.^ked for an adjournment. Mr. Cessna of Pennsylvania was willing to adjourn when the previ- ous question on bis motion should be seconded and the main question ordered to be now put. After some consultation, it was concluded that the demand for the previous question had been seconded. This was a mistake, but it made no difference as it was received as authority by common consent. Mr. Craig of Missouri said he was not willing to follow his distin- guished friend Clark out of a Democratic Convention. Whereupon Mr. Clark announced that his purpose was fixed to remain in the Convention. Senator Saulsbury of Delaware was instructed by the delegation of that State to announce that they desire to be excused from voting on any further ballots or votes, unless circumstances should alter this determi- nation. He said : It is our desire to be left free to act or not act, our desire being to leave the question open for the consideration of our con- stituents after we return home. ]Mr. Gaulden of Georgia made his Charleston slave-trade and slave- breeding speech again. He announced himself a slave breeder. He had not joined his fortunes to either the house of York or the house of Lancaster. He said : I have felt that the experiment of man for self-government was about to prove a failure here, and that the genius of liberty was about shrieking to leave the world. I am an advocate for maintaining the integrity of the National Demo- cratic party ; I belong to the extreme South ; I am a pro-slavery man in every sense of the word, aye, and an African slave-trade man. [Ap- plause and laughter.] This institution of slavery, as I have said else- where, has done more to advance the prosperity and intelligence of the white race, and of the human race, than all else together. I believe it to be founded upon the law of nature and upon the law of God ; I be- lieve it to be a blessing to all races. I believe that liberty would not truly exist in this Western World except by maintaining the integrity of the oreat National Democratic party. [Applause.] He spoke of the " slave-breeding and slave-trading State of Virginia," when a delegate from Vir!);inia called him to order fur cast iig an iinpu- tatidu u[(')ii the State of Virginia. Gaulden thought he had been pay- ing Virginia a high couipliment. He said: 201 Well, I will say the slave-breeding State of Georgia, then. I j^l^i^y in beino- a slave-breeder myself. [Loud laughter.] I will face the music myself, and I have got as many negroes as any man from the State of Virginia. And as I invited the gentlemen of this Convention at Charleston to visit ray plantation, I will say again that if they will come to see me, I will show them as fine a lot of negroes, and the pure Afri- an, too, as they can find any where. And I will show them as hand- some a set of little children there as can be seen [laughter], and any quantity of them, too. [Renewed laughter.] And I wish that Vir- ginia may be as good a slave-trading and slave-breeding State as Georgia ; and in saying that, I do not mean to be disrespectful to Vir- ginia, but I do not mean to dodge the question at all. I think I shall live to see the day when the doctrines which I advo- cate to-nio-ht will be the doctrines of Massachusetts and of the North, for " Truth crushed to earth will rise again, The eternal years of Gorl are hers ; While error, wounded, writhes in pain And dies amid her worshipers." I say I go for non-intervention in the broadest sense of the term. Mr. Gaulden's speech was generally laughed at, but he was in sober and resolute earnest. He is quite a Yankee in appearance, tall, straight, sharp-nosed and keen-eyed, and vigorous as a black-snake. Nothing delights him more than to tell of the swarms of young niggers on his plantation. Mr. Ewing of Tennessee here announced : Mr. President, the ma- jority of the delegation from Tennesssee, who asked the indulgence of this Convention to retire for consultation, have done so, and as the result of their deliberations I have to announce that nineteen out of twenty-four representatives have decided to retire, and five to remain. Mr. Steele of North Carolina had not seen cause for going out of the Convention. Mr. Claiborne of Missouri made a speech. He said : To-day, for the first time in the history of Democracy, I have seen the mother of States starting madly from a National Convention. I am a Southern man, born and raised beneath the sunny sky of the South. Not a drop of blood in my veins ever flowed in veins north of Mason's and Dixon's line. My ancestors for 300 years sleep beneath the turf that shelters the bones of Washington, and I thank God that they rest in the graves of honest slaveholders. [Applause.] He had once in his life bolted from a Convention, and it came very near proving his political death. He found that he had fallen about seventeen hundred feet in the estimation of his constituents when he re- turned home, and he predicted that a similar fate awaited all who should secede from this National Convention. He spoke in the most enthusiastic manner of Mr. Douglas. He talked of the Scottish Chieftain, Lord James of Douglas, carrying to the man of Palestine the heart of Bruce encased in a golden box,^ throw- ing -it into the ranks of the enemy and fighting his way to it. Even so Stephen A. Douglas, with the Constitution, would go into the ranks of the enemy. He said : Sir, if there is any thing the Southern Democracy 202 dit^like, it is the fossil remains of Wliiggery and Know-Nnthingism [laughter] ; and I tell you when it is known to the people of the South that it is the design of the Seceders to defeat the old time-honored Detnocracy in tliis way, they will dodge them as they dodge lightning. [Laughter.] He promised twenty-five thousand majority for Douglas in Missouri. After some remarks by Mr. Clark of Missouri, who wished to con- sult, there were cries of question ; and the motion, " Shall the main ques- tion be now put," to go into a nomination of candidates for President and Vice-President, was carried. The President — The motion has been carried. Will the Convention now vote upon the main question ? Mr. Cessna of Pennsylvania — I move an adjournment. Cries of " No, no." Mr. Clarke — I will claim the right to make the statement I proposed in the morning. The President — A motion to adjourn has been made. All who are in favor of it will vote aye, etc. The vote being taken viva voce, the President decided that the ques- tion had been determined in the affirmative, whereupon the Convention, at 10:30 P. M., adjourned. SIXTH DAY. Baltimore, June 23d. We had from this time forth a divided Convention — one sitting in the theatre, and one in the Maryland Institute. Both claimed regulari- ty, and to be the National Democratic Convention. The controversy was animated as that respecting Townsend's Sarsaparilla. Perhaps the record will show the facts. There seemed to be a lull in the excitement after adjournment on the fifth day. The deed was done. The disrup- tion of the Convention was a fixed fact. The case was beyond the power of medicine or surgery. Consequently there was a comparative calm. There was the usual double-headed mass meeting in Monument Square, but its spirit had evaporated. The private cursing was not loud but deep. Tiie public speaking was rather loud than deep. The meeting was adjourned by a crowd of Baltimoreans with " Three cheers for Bell and Everett." IN TIIE THEATRE This morning, tlie first thing in order after prayers, was the report of the decision of the Kentucky delegation. Col. Caldwell stated the de- termination arrived at in very gentlemanly and re.-pectful terms, and withdrew the name of James Guthrie. A communication from Mr. 203 James G. Leach of Kentucky was road. It stated liis reasons for with- drawiiiir, and was couched in terms that reflected severely upon the ac- tion ot the Convention. Mr. Payne of Ohio considered the communication insulting. Several other o-entiemen thought the Convention had been insulted. Mr. Leach said he had intended no disrespect to the Convention, and he thought it a morbidly sensitive liody to take offf al I8U 7k 5^ 211 Whole number of votes, 1942. The increas-ed vote on this ballot was from Pennsylvania. Mr. Iloge of Virginia wanted to nuive the uriaiiiinous nominntion of Douglas. Mr. Clark of Missouri, who had voted against Dnu.dis, siiid it was his purpose to second the motion of Mr. Ilogo. IMr. II. now said : I now beg leave to submit the following n-solution, being the same as that off^'red by the gentleman fmrn New York (Mr. Church), with a slight niodification that he and I have made : Rexolced unnnimousb/, That Stephen A. Doujilas, of the State of Illinois, having now received two-thirds of all votes given in this Convention is hereby dicliired, in accordance with rules governino; this body, and in accordance with the; uni- form customs and rules of former Uemocratic National Conventions, the regnlar nominee of the Democratic party of tlie United States for the office of President of the United States. Mr. Sayles of Rhode T.'-land made a speech about the late Democratic victory in that State, and said he had been told in Charleston that they weie hardly l)etter than Black Republicans. Mr. Seymour of New York enthusiastically indorsed Douglas, though be had heretofore opposed him. Mr. Mason of Kentucky made a speech, in which be doubted whether the fires would blaze so high upon the mountain-tops as had been assert- ed. He thought the resolution of Mr. Church injudicious, and pro- posed an amendment as follows : Now, if you will not say in the resolution that this is the rule which has heretofore governed the Democratic party — because you voted at Charleston, that it was not, and for our accommodation ; if you will not make this new construction, but simply declares that, under all the cir- cumstances, Mr. Douglas ought to be the unanimous nominee of this party. I should not be surprised if the State of Kentucky would agree with you, and that quite likely you may get the vote of that State, though I cannot say it with certainty. Mr. Richardson of Tllinoi.s — There has never been a nominat'on for President under any other construction than that made by my fi lend from New York in his resolution. It is true you agreed at Charleston that you would not do it this time, but always heretofore you have nominated the candidate by a two-third vote. Mr. Stevenson of Vir- ginia, in 1848, when the New York delegation was excluded, and Gen. Cass was nominated, declared that 170 votes were two-thirds. The action of the Convention has been uniform upon this subject. Mr. Craig of Mi.ssouii — Is there any obj. cfion to withdrawing the resolution and declaring the nomination unanimous by a big, old-fash- ioned Democratic yell V [Laughter and cries of " Question," "ques- tion."] The question being taken on the resolution of Mr. Church, it was adopted by an unanimous aye. Now a storm of cheers went up. The banner of the Keystone State was hung out from the upper jiallery, and K)mel ody produied on the stage a flag on which it was written " Pennsylvania giod for 40,000 majority for Douglas. 212 The President said: Gentlemen of the Convention, as your presid- ing officer I declare Stephen A. Doughis, of Illinois, by the unanimous vote of this Convention, the nominee of the Democratic party of the United States for President. [Here Captain Rynders led off with three hearty cheers.] And may God, in his infinite mercy, protect him, and with him this Union! Mr. Dawson, chairman of the Pennsylvania delegation, was called on for a .speech. The following paragraphs embody its substance : Mr. President and gentlemen of the Convention, it is scarcely neces- sary for me to say that, at no time during the sittings of this body, did Judge Douglas receive the united vote of the delegation from Pennsyl- vania. And, I may further add, that in the consideration of a plat- form a majority of us united with oar Southern friends, ready to give them all that we believed them entitled to under the Federal Constitution. In our judgment they asked for nothing more, and we were not willing to give them less. [Applause.] In our actions then we have been over- ruled by a decided majority of this body, and, for Pennsylvania, I am free to say that, attached as we are to the Democratic party, its princi- ples, its discipline, its organization, standing true forever, in the elo- quent language of the President in his opening speech at Charleston, "Standing as perpetual sentinels upon the outposts of the Constitution," we will, I trust, abide by its decisions and support its nominees. [Cheers.] Judge Douglas is a man of acknowledged talent, and everywhere regarded as the accomplished statesman, skilled in the art of ruling. Born under a New England sun, yet by adoption a citizen of the West, honored and cherished in the valley of the Ohio and on the slopes of the Atlantic, he now should be of the whole country. [Cheers.] Un- trained, to some extent, in early life, in the learning of the schools, the deficiency, if any exists, has been largely compensated by the generous measure in which nature has bestowed upon him her choicest gifts of intellect and character. [A|)plause.] Like Henry of the Ptevolution, like Peel of England, these noble qualities have made him the architect of his own fortune. [Cheers.] Mr. Shepley of Maine spoke next. He had not been for Douglas at first, but he indorsed his nomination and said, in concluding h-s remarks : I have only one word to say in conclusion. We represent 55,000 Democrats in the State of Maine, and although it has been urged here that there is no Northern Democracy in the coming election, we will show those men of the lowlands who have said it, that . " There are hills beyond Pentland, There are friths beyond Forth. If there are Ior(l.s in the Southland, Thi^re are chiefs in the North." Mr. Cochrane of New York made a handsome harmony speech. He had been against Douglas, but now congratulated the Convention and the whole country. lie said : But the time has arrived when these differences of opinion are to be merged in the authoritative decree of the great Democratic party, and as that decree is here announced to the people of the United States, I for one, lead the feeble volume of my voice to those ws^s and currents 213 that are now bearing to every portion of tlic Union the lionorod, illus- trious, impregnable name of Stephen A. Douglas. [Loud cheers.] He declared further that " the reluctance of the past should be compensated by the cordiality of the future," and said in conclusion : "Patriotism and honesty require that tho-:e who have been sent here as delegates are in strict honor bound by the action of this Convention. [Applause.] But above and beyond the obligations of honor there is a volition that will expand from these walls to the whole country, which will resound in huzza upon huzza for Stephen A. Douglas." The Convention took a recess until seven o'clock in the evening. EVENINO SESSION. The first thing was an explanation from Mr. Harrington of Illinois, who was the man alluded to by Mr. Smith of California as having acknowledged that the Cessna resolution was a trick. He said that, on the contrary, he had denied that that resolution was a trick. He ac- counted for Mr. Smith's statement by saying that he (Smith) had been almost insane from excitement. The following was named as the National Executive Committee : Sylvanus R Lyman, of Portland, Maine; Alfeus F. Snow, of Clare- mont, New Hampshire; Charles G. Eastman, of Montpelier, Vermont; Frederick C. Price, of Boston, Massachusetts; Jacob Babbitt, of Bris- tol, Rhode Island; Wm. F. Converse, of Norwich, Connecticut; Au-\ guste Belmont, of New York, New York; Jacob Van Nosdale, of New-/ ark. New Jersey; Richard Haldeman, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania;' Thos. M. Lanahan, of Baltimore, Maryland; John A. Harman, of Staunton, Virginia; Rob't E. Dick, of Greensborough, North Carolina; Wm. B Gaulden, of Huntsville, Georgia; W. W. Moore, of Jackson- ville, Florida; Oatley H. Bynimi, of Portland, Alabama; Thos. Cott- man, of Donaldsonville, Loui.^iana; Thomas Flournoy, of Arkansas; James Craig, of St. Joseph's, Missouri; C Knox Walker, of Memphis, Tennessee; Henry C. Harrison, of Covington, Kentucky; Hugh J. Jewett, of Zanesville, Ohio; H. W. Harrington, of Madison, Indiana; Murray McKunnel, of Jacksonville, Illinois; Benj. Follett, of Michi- gan; John K. Sharpstein, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Wm. H. Mer- [ Ij^ ti^., of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Henry H. Sibley, of Minnesota; James A. McDougal, of San Francisco, California. Mr. Gaulden of Georgia desired to decline, but was not allowed to do so, and accepted "as a private citizen of Georgia." In the report of the committee on Rules and Regulations, it was pro- vided that the place of holding the next National Convention should be in the discretion of the National Committee. Mr. Sibley of Minnesota said: It was held by the presiding officer that the term of office of the National Executive Committee expired upon the assembling of the Convention, and serious inconveniences have resulted in consequence of that ruling. I now move that the Executive Committee shall remain in exi.^tence and continue its func- tions until its successors are elected and qualified. The motion was agreed to. 214 After it had been provided that Mr. G. Parkliurst, Recording Secre- tary, should prepare tiie proceedings for publication, and cause 10,000 cojdes to be printed, Mr. Jones of Tennessee said : Mr. President, the Southern dele- gates in their Convention have conferred tt^getberand have agreed unan- iniou.>isl-,Uuie over the subject of the domestic reUitions. as the same has becui or shuU iieri^after be finally determined by the Supreme Court of the United States, should be respected by alt good citizens and en- forced with promptness and lidelity by eveiy branch of the General Government. The resolution was received with loud expressions of approbation. Mr. Payne — Mr. President, I undertake to say that no fair-uiimled man, North or South, can find fault with one word of that resolution. [Several voices, "Not a word."] Mr. Payne moved the previous question. Mr. Davis of Virginia rose with excitement, said it was unfair, and wanted to be heard. Mr. Payne withdrew the previous question. Mr. Davis thought the subject of a platform was already sufficiently complicated. He did not want Fitzpatrick sacrificed by the inlroduc_ 215 tlon of that resolution, pjirtifularly as it did not mean any tiling at all. He was for the Cineiniinti l^latforin alone. Ho said : If we Can't get wliat we want, let us have nothing but the Cincinna- ti Platform and al)ido by that and wait our time. ]Jy and by tin; Dem- ocratic; party will give piotection, I believe, and that is the reason why I was elected as a protective man. I am a protective man here to-day. I^thitdv we have got one protective man on the ticket. If not, I am terril)ly deceived. I don't want him sacrificed by the introduction of this resolution. You won't hear me to-night. I stand ready to refute the fallacy of squatter or popular sovereignty whenever I can be lis- tened to. All I will say here then is that this resolution coniplicates the suliji'ct and involves the South wor.'^e and worse, and I protest, in the name of my constituenc^y, against its adoption. The resolution was adopted viva voce, with one or two dissenting voices. The Hon. William A. Richardson made a short speech reviewing the controvert^y between those who had seceded from, and those who re- mained in the Convention. He said : I am going to make an announcement that will account for the cur- rency of a rumor prevalent here the other day. Judge Douglas will accept the nomination. [Loud cheers and applause.] But Judge Douglas was prepared, for the harmony of the party, for the success of the party, for the preservation of the government, always and at all times, to withdraw his name from the Ccmvenfion. [Applause.] I mean those gentlemen shall meet that issue when they go home. I have had in my possession, since the session of this Convention here, his authority placed in my hands to withdraw his name, to be used by his friends whenever they deemed it necessary to do so. [Great ap- plause.] And I now send to the Secretary's desk a letter which, though marked " private," I ask may be read to this Convention. In this letter Mr. Douglas reiterated his doctrine of " Non-inter- vention," and said : " But while I can never sacrifice the principle, even to attain the Pres- idency, I will cheerfully and joyfully sacrifice myself to maintain the principle. If, therefore, you and my other friends, who have stood by me with such heroic firmness at Charleston and Baltimore, shall be of the opinion that the principle can be preserved and the unity and as- cendancy of the Democratic party maintained and the country saved from the perils of Northern abolitionism and Southern disunion by withdrawing my name and uniting upon some other non-interveutioa and Union loving Democrat, I beseech you to pursue that course. ******* " The action of the Charleston Convention in sustaining me by so large a majority on the platform, and designating me as the first choice of the party for the Presidency, is all the personal triumph I desire. This letter is prompted by the same motives which induced my despatch four years ago, withdrawing my name from the Cincinnati Convention." Mr. Richardson resuming, said : So anxious was my friend, the nominee of this Convention, that this should be impressed upon the minds of all his friends here that he tele- 216 graphed the gentleman from New York (Mr. Richmond) on yesterday, T believe, to the srinie effect. I trust that no person who knows ine be- lieves that I would be guilty of manufocturing evidence for an occasion of this sort. [Cries of " No," "no."] I have borne this letter with me for three days, but those gentlemen who have seceded from this Convention placed it out of my power to use it. And the responsibili- ty, therefore, is on them. ******* We in the North have one sectional party to fight, and intend to whip them. You have an equally sectional party to fight in the South, and we expect you to whip them. When the election conies on in No- vember next, we shall carry a majority of the electoral vote of the North, and we expect you to carry a majority of the electoral vote of the South. Mr. Cessna of Pennsylvania — We were informed upon the opening of this Convention in this city, by our late highly respected and most lamented presiding officer [laughter], that when we adjourned at Charleston there were pending three motions to reconsider, and three motions to lay those motions to reconsider on the table. I move that the question be now taken upon those motions. The motion was agreed to, and accordingly the several motions to re- consider were laid on the table. The usual votes of thanks were passed. Hon. David Todd was thanked. Railroads were thanked for half-fare tickets. The police of Baltimore were thanked. Then Mr. Warwack of Alabama returned thanks for the nomination made for Vice-President, and pledged the electoral vote of Alabama for the nominees of the Convention. It was here announced that four States had seceded from the Seceders' Convention. The announcement was received with much applause. It was, however, a mistake. No such secession had occurred. Mr. Stuart of Michigan proposed to adjourn, go into the field where the enemy were and "conquer them in a hand-to-hand fight." The President returned thanks for the vote of thanks, and con- cluded : We have only to continue firmly, nationally, sternly, fairly, honora- bly in the discharge of our duties, as we have done since we met at Charleston, to crown our efforts with entire success. Wishing you all a safe return to your homes, to your wives and chil- dren, and God grant that you may all have them at home waiting for you, I now declare this Convention adjourned, and bid you adieu. The hour was fifteen minutes to ten P. M. 217 INSTITUTE HALL ("SECEDERS") CONVENTION. %A' After the retirement of Mr. Gushing from the Presidency of the Con- vention in the theatre, the public lost interest in that body. There were several sensation scenes in the morning, the most remarkable of which was Mr Cushing dropping the gavel and leaving the chair, and Mr. Todd taking his place, with the Convention cheering heartily. But when it was evident to all that the Convention would nominate Douglas, as soon as the remaining delegates should exhaust them.selves in speech- nlaking, the public turned toward the Maryland Institute (or Market) Hall. The Hall is three hundred and twenty feet long, and seventy broad, with galleries running entirely around, and contains, when full in every part, eight thousand persons. The galleries, and the space on the floor set apart for outsiders, were quite full when the Conven- tion was called to order. The Baltimore Sun says of the feeling of the Seceding delegates, in coming together : " The members of the respective delegations entered freely into conversation. All restraint of feeling had disappeared, and a spirit of the most cordial unanimity and harmony characterized every man and every feature. The change of manner, expression and senti- ment was complete, and would have been striking and remarkable, but that it was consistent with general experience, in a Democratic Conven- tion undisturbed by factitious influences. None could poj^sibly fail to realize the perfect restoration of that geniality of intercourse which is alone the earnest of a harmonious result." Mr. Ewing of Tennessee called the Convention to order, and an- nounced Mr. Russell of Virginia as temporary chairman of the Con- vention. Messrs. Featherson of Mississippi and Stevens of Oregon were appointed a committee to escort Mr. Russell to his seat. Mr. Russell made a speech, in which he said : The Convention assembled elsewhere, and from which you have with- drawn, has lost all title to the designation of national. [Applause.] It cannot longer continue to perform the functions of a National Dem- ocratic Convention, and every one believes that all true Democrats will unite to declare it unsound in national relations. You and those who you represent are a majority of the people of the Democracy and of the Democratic States. [Applause.] They will look to you to perform the functions of a National Democratic Convention, and you will be so recognized alike by the North and the South, the East and the West, [Cheers.] On motion of Mr. Ewing, Messrs. Crosby of Oregon and Johnson of Maryland were selected as temporary Secretaries. Mr. Walker of Alabama moved the appointment of a committee of 15 on Permanent Organization. Carried unanimously. 218 Senator Eayard of Delaware moved reconsideration, as the number (15) looked sectional. At his suggestion, the committee was made 5 instead of 15. There was some talk about filling up the delegates' seats, there being a good many more chairs than delegates. This was quieted, however. The followuig was re/^ortcd as the cnmmittee on Organization : Walker of Alabama, McHenty of Pennsylvania, Srevens of Oregon, Williams of Massacliu^etts, and John Dishman of Kentucky. The Convention took a recess, and there were cries among the spec- tators for a speech from Yancey. EVENING SESSION. The chairman of each delegation was requested to hand to the Sec- retary a list of the delegates from his State. The Secretary proceeded to call the roll of the States, when the fol- lowing responses were made : Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minpesotu — no delegates. Vermont — One delegate. Ma.ssachasetts — S xfeen delegates. [Immense cheering.] New York — Two delegates. [Cheers.] Pennsylvania — Please pass Pennsylvania for the present — she is here. [Cheers ] New Jer.sey — No representative. Delaware is here — pass her for the present. Virginia — She is here with twenty-three delegates. North Carolina — She is here with sixteen delegates. [Applause.] Alabama is here with a full delegation — thirty-six delegates. Mississippi — A full delegation of fourteen. Louisiana — A full delegation ; fourteen. Texas — All here ; eight delegates. Arkansas — A full delegation, nine in number. Missouri — Two delegates. Tennessee — We have nineteen delegates here. Kentucky — Ten delegates. Iowa — :e, fenced from the multitude with settees leading from the door to the seats re- served for the delegates and the platform. Cushing's person has, du- ring his Presidency over the deliberations of the Convention, become very well known. He was therefore instantly recognized by hundreds, and his familiar blue coat and brass buttons, his Webstcrian garments and Caj-arian head, were hailed with extraordinary acclamation. He marched through a lane of yelling Southciners, hats whirling, and handkerchiefs waving over his head, while the occupants of the galleries leaned forward, and shouted and clapped their hands, swung their hats, fluttered handkercheifs, and as he mounted the platform, Mr. Russell of Virginia took him by the hand, the Convention and crowd gave him 220 three clieorss, and Mr. R. mentioned that he " resumed^' h\s seat as chairman of the National Democratic Convention. Mr. Caching, after anxiously inquiring of the Secretaries how many States were repre.^ented, said : Gentlemen of the Convention — we assemble here, delegates to the National Democratic Convention [applause], duly accredited thereto from more than twenty States of the Union [applause], for the purpose of nominating candidates of the Democratic party for the offices of President and Vice-President of the United States — for the purpose of announcing the principles of the party, and for the purpose of continuing and re-establishing tiiat party upon the firm foundation of the Constitu- tion, the Union and the co-equal rights of the several States. [Applause.] Gentlemen, the Convention is in order for business. Every word rung through the immense hall, and the familiar sound of his voice certainly gave the Convention the tone of regularity. Mr. Loring of Massachusetts moved that a committee of one from each State be appointed as a committee on Credentials to decide the qualification of members to seats on this floor. Mr. Johnson of Maryland moved as an amendment, that the creden- tials be referred to the committee on Credentials as that committee stood at the last meeting of this Convention. [Applause.] Mr Loring — I accept the amendment. I had forgotten. I move, therefore, that the committee on Credentials be requested to examine and report on the credentials of members. A coiiiniunication was received from H. H. Heath of Dubuque, Iowa, and John Johns of Davenport, Iowa. These gentlemen were desirous that the National Democracy of Liwa should have a representation on that floor. Tliey did not claim to be regular delegates, but asked seats on the floor with " the right of mutual conference and consultation." The document was referred to the committee on Credentials. Mr. Atkins of Tennessee wanted business despatched. There was no reason why all the busine.'^s could not be accomplished before ad- journing. Mr. Butler of Massachusetts moved that the members of the com- mittee on Resolutions be requested to report a platform forthwith. He resigned his pluce on the committee, and Hon. B. F. Ilallett (" Author Cincinnati J*latform") was substituted. Mr. John.'^on of Maryhmd moved the adoption at once, without refer- ence to a committee, of that which was known as the majority platform reported at Charleston. Mr. Lubbock of Texas deprecated these hasty proceedings. The committee on Credentials had not reported- Care should betaken to do the work well. He conscientiously believed the nominees of that Convention would be elected President and Vice-President of the Un-ited States. Mr. Hunter of Louisiana presented the following resolution : lie-solved. That the delegates to the Richmond Convention be requested to unite will) thiir brethren of the National Democratic Convention, now a.^scnibled at the Maryhuid Institute Hall, on tl)e same platform of principles with them- Bclves, if they feel authorized to do so. 221 Mr. Lnring of Massachusetts moved that the resolution be amended so as to read '■ the delegates from Suuih Carolina :itid Florida accredited to Richmond," and he did so at the request of those delegates. [Ap- plause.] Mr. Russell suggested a committee of one from each State, to name candidates for President and Vice-President, to be voted for by the Con- vention. Mr. Howard of Tennessee objected — and Mr. Russell withdrew his motion. Mr. Fisher of Virginia offered the following resolution : Resolved, That a committee be appointed by the President of the Convention, cousifsting of live members, to address the Democracy of the Union ui)on the principles which have governed this body in maliiiig the nomination of Presi- dent and Vice-President, and in viudiciition of the principles of the party. Mr. Howard of Tennessee moved that the President of this Conven- tion be chairman of that committee. 31r. Howard put the question, and declared it carried unanimously. [Applause.] The President — I will appoint the committee at my earliest conveni- ence. It was suggested, that while the report of the committee on Creden- tials was being prepared a little business might be done. 80 it was de- creed that a " National Executive Committee of the Democratic party" should be appointed, and that the next Convention should be held in the city of Philadelphia. Mr. Stevens of Oregon, chairman of the committee on Credentials, reported the following duly accredited members as in attendance : colleagues have left the city, and as they feel themselves precluded by the unity rule of their State Convention, tney do not feel authorized to participate as delegates in the proceedings of this body.] VIRGINIA. I Charles W. Russell, Arthur R. Smith, John J. Kindred, M. W. Fisher, George Booker, i James Barbour, John Seddon, Lewis E. liar- | vie, William F. Thompson, Henry P. Gar- nett, Win A. Buckuer, John Blair Hoge, O. R. Funston, Walter D. Leake, Wm. P. Cecil, Robert Crockett, John Brannou, Henry Fitz- hugh, Robert A. Coghill, P. B Jones, E. W. Hubard, Walter Coles, Wm. H. Clark, R. H. Glass. Henry R. Jackson, J. T. Irwin, Henry L. Banning, Solomon Cohen, John W. H. Un- derwood, Frederick H. West, T. Butler King, Julian Hartridge, Hugh M. Moore, John A. Jones, James M. Clark, Nelson Tift, T. J. IUcGehee, J. C. Gibson, P. Tracey, E. L. Stro- hecker, Thomas W. O. Hill, Wm. Phillips, James M. Barnwell, G. J. Fain, Lewis Tum- lin, James Hoge, Mark Johnston, H. B. Thom- as, James Jackson, James A. Sledge, Osborn T. Rogers, John A. Cobb, David C. Barrow, M. C. Fulton. NEW YORK. Augustus Schell, Bartlett. [Note.— *Several of the delegates from the State of New York are in attendance, in cor- dial sympathy with the objects and course of this Convention ; but as many of their CALIFORNIA. Aus'in E. Smith, D. S. Gregory, John A. Dreibilbis ; Chas L. Scott, proxy for G. W. Patrick; R. F. Langdon, proxy for L. R. Brad- ley; G. L. Dudley, proxy for John Rains; Calhoun Benham, proxy for John S. Dudley. John Bidwell appointed S. J. Hensley his proxy, but neither of them are here. MARYLAND. WiUiam T. Hamilton. John Contee, Levin Woolford, John R. Emory, E. L. F. Hard- castle, Daniel Fields, Bradley T. Johnson, William D. Bowie, Harville Stansbury. PENNSYLVANIA. W. M. Reilly, V. L. Bradford, Geo. M. Hen- ry, E. C. Evans, Geo. H. Martin, H. A. Guen- sey, H. Laner. H. H. Dent. A. J Glossbren- ner, Arnold Plummer, H. B. Swarr, David Fister. LOUISIANA. R. A. Hunter, Richard Taylor, E. Lusen, John Tarleton, F. H Hatch, D. D. Withers, R. C. Downs, J. G. Pratt, F. H. Knapp, J. H. New, B. Milliken. * This IS the note of the Reporter of the Baltimore American. 222 MISSISSIPPI. Georpe II. Gordly. Mr. Avery of North Caiolina, from the committee on Platform, re- ported the following, being the majority Platfoim of the Cliaileston committee : Resolved, That the platform adopted by the Democratic party at Cincinnati, be affirmed, with the following explanatory resolutions: 1st. lifHulred, Thai, the government of a Territory organized by an act of Con- gress, is provisional and temporary ; and during its existence', all citizens of the United States have an equal right to settli; with their property in the Territory, without their rights either of person or property being destroyed or impaired by Congrc'ssional or TiTiitorial legislation. 2d. lic-iohed, Tliat it is the duty of the Federal Government, in all its depart- ments, to protect, wlii/n necessary, the rights of persons and properly in the Ter- ritories, and wherever else its constitutional authority extends. 3d. Ikfiolced, That when setllirs in a Territory liaving an adequate popula- tion, fonri a State Con.stltution, the rights of sovereignty commend .s. and, being consummati d by adinis.-^ion into the Union, they stand on an iqnal footing with the pfopic of oth'-r States ; and the State thus organized ought to be admitted iiiio llie Fed Tal Union, whether its constitution prohibits or recognizes the insti- tAitioii of slavery. 4lJi. Jlesulved, That the Democratic party are in favor of the acquisition of the Island of Cul)a, on such terms as shall be honorable to ourselves and just to Spain, at the earliest jiraeticable moment. .5th. Resoloed, That the enactments of State Legislatures to defeat the faithful 223 execution of tbe Fugitive Slave law, are hostile in character to and subversive of the Constitution, aiui revolutionary in their effect. (ill). . AV.Ww/, That Ihe Dtinocracy ijf the United States reeopnizrs it as an imperative duly of this (Government to protect naturalized citizens in all their rights, whether at home or in foreign lands, to the same extent, as its native-born citizens. And whereas, one of the greatest necessities of the age. in a political, com- mercial, piist;>l and military point of view, is speedy cunmiunication between the Pacitic and Atlantic coasts, therefore be it 7th. Eemlved, That the National Denmeratic parly do hereby phdge them- selves to use evd-y nu ans in their power to secure the passage ol kiuk! bill to the extent of the constitutional authority of Congress for the construction of a Pacific Railroad from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean, at the earliest practicable moment. Mr. Avery moved the previous question upon this platform, and it was adopted without dissent. Mr. jMathews offered the followLng resolution, which was adopted: That the National Committee shall not issue tickets to the floor of the Con- vention in any case where there is a bona jide contestant. Mr. Greene of North Carolina moved "That all Constitutional Dem- ocrats of such States as are not at present represented, be toquested to unite in the organizition, and form an Electoral College in favor of the election of the nominees of this Convention " Mr. Henderson moved to strike out the word "Constitutional," and substitute "National," which was agreed to. Mr. Barksdale moved to proceed to the nomination of candidates for the Presidency and Vice-Presidency. So the Convention went on, harmoniously as a Kepublican Conven- tion where the party is in a minority. The pressure to tiansact busi- ness was overpowering. If a delegate spoke for five minutes, he would see many anxious in- dications of impatience, that would not long tolerate him. The only clog upon business was a difference of opinion as to the casting of votes. The question was whether a delegate from a Congressional District, whose colleague was absent, should cast one vote or one-half a vote. The rule of voting adopted at Charleston and Cincinnati prevailed. The President stated that a telegraphic message had just been put into his hands from the members of the State of Minnesota at the Charleston Convetition, desiring that Richard M. Johnsiai should east their vote. The despatch was signed by Messrs. Baker and Egerton. The committee on Credentials had recommended "that the rules and regulations adopted by the National Democratic Convention of 1852 and 1856, be adopted by this Convention for its government, with tliis qualification — that no nomination shall be considered as made unless the candidate receives two-thiids of the votes of the States rep- resented by this Convention." The committee had further recommended " that each delegate cast the vote to wliich he is entitled in this Convention, and each State shall only east the nutnber of votes to which it may be entitltd by actual representation in this Convention." 224 Under these rules the Convention^ proceeded to the nomination of candidates for the Presidency and Vice-Presidency. Mr. Lorinc of Massachusetts made a speech. He said : We have scon tlie statesmen of Mississippi coming into our own bor- ders, and fearlessly defending their principles, aye, and bringing the sectionalism of the North at their feet by their gallantry. We have ad- miration for this courage, and I trust to live by it and be governed by it. Among all these men to whom we have been led to listen, and ad- mire, and repeat, there is one standing pre-eminently before this coun- try — a young and gallant son of the South. And he named John C. Breckenridge, which name was received with a grand uproar of applause that signified his nomination. Mr. Denny of Pennsylvania seconded the nomination. Mr. Ward of Alabama begged leave "to put in nomination a distin- guished son of" the old commonwealth of the State of Virginia — R. M. Hunter — as our representative man. He has fought the battle for twenty-five years, and has stamped the impress of principle upon the great Democratic party of his country." Mr. Ewing of Tennesse put in nomination Daniel S. Dickinson of New York, and said : Mr. Webster, who was opposed to him, said he could not leave the Seniite without paying a tribute to the patriotism and dignity of charac- ter, as a gentleman and as a statesman, of Mr. Dickinson. Webster now sleeps with his fathers, but his judgment remains, and it was the impartial judgment of a man who was able to judge, and who was an opponent. Mr. Stevens of Oregon named the "Marion of the Mexican War." He said : We have tried him, and know him as a statesman and as a man of honor — we know him as a man of experience, and we know him as a man ruled by the Constitution under which we live. I beg leave, therefore, to present to this Convention the name of General Joseph Lane of Oregon. Mr. Matthews of Mississippi spoke of " the orator, warrior, states- man and lawyer, Jefferson Davis," but for the sake of harmony with- held his name. Mr. Kussell of Virginia, after consulting with his delegation, re- ([uested Alabama to withdraw the name of Hunter. Mr. Ward of Alabama complied, expressing his " profound admira- tion " for the bearing of Virginia. The roll of States was then called. The result was : For Breckenridge — Vermont A, Massachusetts 8, Pennsylvania 4, Maryland 1^, Virginia 111, Georgia 10, Florida 3, Alabama 9, Louis- iana G, Mississippi 7, Texas 4, Arkansas 4, Kentucky 4d, Minnesota 1, California 4, Oregon 3 — 81. For Dickinson — New York 2, Maryland 3, North Carolina 8|, Mis- souri 1, Tennessee 9;] — 24. The States that had voted for Dickinson one afrer another changed to Breckenridge, who was then declared unanimously nominated. I During the lallot for a candidate for tlio Presidency, Mr. Bartlett of New York said : I came into the delegation of the State of New York, under the rule passed by the Democratic State Convention of that State. But it did not take me long to discover what the game was, after one day's session in that delegation. I was satisfied in my own mind that the slate had been filled, and, therefore, I was placed, like many others of my colleagues, in the minority of that delegation ; and upon all ques- tions, and especially upon the adoption of the majority report on Cre- dentials, in which we had a long contest, the line was strictly drawn, and there was thirty on one side and forty on the other. He also made an eloquent appeal for the Union. Mr. Green of North Carolina rose and proposed Hon. Joseph Lane of Oregon, as Vice-President, which was seconded by the California delegation, and, on a call of the States, unanimously agreed to. When the cheering subsided, there was a general call for " Yancey " "Yancey" — and that gentleman stepped forward upon the platform, and had a reception of the most flattering character. He is a square built middle-sized gentleman, with a decided stoop in the shoulders. His hair is a light brown, and his eyes large and gray. His face is pe- culiar, and without striking features, though closely observed it is seen to be the face of an inten.se and powerful man, having an expression of concentration, and a good-natured sort of pluck. His style of dress is that of a tidy business man, and his manners frank and unassuming as those of a boy. There is not the slightest symptom of the fanatic about him. His convictions are evidently not disturbed for a moment, nor is his confidence in himself by any means depressed by the vicisi- tudes of a doubtful controversy. In the midst of the most exciting scenes he is placid in appearance and so thoroughly conversant with his purpose, that he is at perfect ease. The smile that he wears amid the acclamations of a multitude of admirers would hardly darken a shade at the hootings of an exasperated mob. But you do not know him until you have heard him speak. His voice is clear as a bugle-note, and at the same time singularly blended with its music is a sharp high metallic ring, like that of a triangle of steel. This peculiar voice, al- ways clear and sharp, pierces to a great distance, and would instantly command attention in any assembly. He speaks with great animation of gesture with his arms, meanwhile walking quietly up and down the platform. Upon commencing a particular branch of his subject, he straightens himself with an effort, stands perfectly erect, and pulls up his coat-sleeves. As he proceeds in the demonstration, he moves toward the edge of the platform and leaning forward, indicates the progress he is making by exclamation points given with the index finger of his right hand upon the palm of the left. As he clinches the proposition he leans forward until poised upon the toes of his boots, his right arm ex- tended and pointing into the heart of the matter, and then usually as he rebounds, he throws off sportively as it were a graceful climax of rhetoric ; and is ready for the next point. — Mr. Yancey commenced his speech on this occasion, by saying: Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Convention — The storm clouds of faction 15 226 have drifted away, and the sunlight of principle, under the Constitution, and of the Union under the Constitution, shines brightly upon the Na- tional Democracy. He declared that the Democracy, the Constitution, and tlirough them the Union, were yet safe. In defining his position in regard to the Union, he said : I am, however, no worshiper at the .shrine of the Union. I am no TTnion shrieker. I meet great questions fairly, on their own merits. I do not try to drown the judgment of the people by shrieking for the Union. I am neither for the Union nor against the Union— neither for disunion nor against disunion. I urge or oppose measures upon the ground of their constitutionality and wisdom or the reverse. He said of Mr. Douglas : But I will let Mr. Douglas rest where his friends have placed him, contending, however, that they have buried him to-day beneath the grave of squatter sovereignty. The nomination that was made (I speak it prophetically), was made to be defeated and it is bound to be defeated. Mr. Yancey reviewed very clearly, the scriptural and historical refer- ences made in the Douglas Convention by Mr. Green of Ky., respecting the few righteous men of Sodom, and by Mr. Claiborne of Missouri, who introduced the story of Lord James Douglas and the heart of Bruce. And with all Mr. Yancey's power, it is due the truth to say that he was guilty of that terrible offense on such an occasion — too much speak- ing — and contrived to use up very handsomely the brilliant reputation with which he came to Baltimore, as an orator of the first order, and a man of wonderful ability, perfect tact, and fascinating address. He has great and glittering qualities, but the Baltimoreans had over-estimated him. His speech was a disenchanter. He was not calculated to assist his party at all, but rather to place embarrassments in its way. He denied being a disunionist, but his talk respecting the Union did not in- dicate any warmth of affection for our common nationality. It was very calculating, and to the man who loves the Union for itself, and entertains a sentiment of national pride, which has its origin rather in the warm emotions of the heart, than the cold reason of the head, was offensive and distressing. He proceeded to elaborate the same argument made by Mr. Stevens in his minority report, and did not improve it at all by his redundancy of words. He had the bad taste, too, to enter largely into Alabama politics, and gave details of matters purely local in their nature. The people left the hall by hundreds ; yet he spoke on, as if unconscious that instead of captivating the multitudes he was boring them. Cushing became uneasy, nervous and fidgety. Yancey was speaking the people out of the hall, and using up all the time with Alabama matters. It had been intimated that Burnett of Kentucky should respond to the nomination of John C. Breckenridge, but now there was no time for Burnett. Y^'ancey was interrupted once, delicately as possible, to attend to some necessary business, but he could not or would not take the hint, but resuming, talked on and on — most injudiciously irritating the nerves of the people, and tampering with the patience of all who would have been glad to have heard all he had to say on another occasion. He was doing another thing that was undesirable. By talking so loud and long then and there, and putting himself and Alabama so prominently for. 227 ward, lie was identifying his name, and the ultraism of Alabama, too intimately and conspicuously with the movement represented in that hall. When he concluded it was evident that there would not be any more speech making. If the eloquence of Yancey had become a weari- ness, who should dare propose to stand up before the jaded crowd, sick, as all were, of the very sound of the human voice. Mr. Avery of North Carolina offered a resolution of thanks to Mr. Gushing, who, on rising to acknowledge the compliment, was received with extravagant applause. He said : Gentlemen of the Convention — I beg you to accept the expression of my heartfelt acknowledgment of your thanks. I do not intend to say any thing more, except to congratulate you upon the most felicitous termination of your labors, l)oth in the adoption of platform, and in the nomination of your candidates. A motion, by Judge Meek, that the President have power to appoint committees, was adopted. And at eleven o'clock the Convention ad- journed sine die. THE CONTEST AT BALTIMORE— THE SPIRIT OP THE SPLIT. When the Seceders appeared at Baltimore, pursuant to the programme of the Southern Congressmen, advertised in their manifesto and perfect- ed at Richmond, the contest between the antagonisms which had been fully developed at Charleston, resolved itself into a simple one on cre- dentials, between the original Charleston delegates, and the delegations from several States, provided to fill up the gaps caused by secession, with the deciding vote in the hand of Dean Richmond, chairman of the New York delegation. Richmond & Co., while able to say whether the Con- vention should be consolidated by admitting the original Southern dele- gates, or disrupted by excluding the seceders, could not say, in case of consolidation, who should be the nominee. The friends of Douglas were without confidence in Richmond (" the Dean"), and were only pre- vented from denouncing him, by the appreciation of their dependence upon him. If he slaughtered Douglas, they had the power and the will to slaughter his man, and would have prevented the nomination of any candidate for whom he, in connection with the South, might have thrown his influence. Hence the hesitation of New York — her long consulta- tions — her vascillation, and retrograde movements. She struggled for a compromise, but both sides were so fierce that compromising was out of the question. The Southerners thought they had compromised enough in coming to Baltimore, and condescending to ask admission into the Con- vention from which they had seceded. The friends of Douglas could not be expected to throw away the last chance for their candidate, by making up the Convention, so far as possible, out of its original materials. Such a compromise as that would have been, not a capitulation, but a surrender at discretion. They did, at the solicitation, indeed the dicta- torial demand of New York, back out from two propositions, and were 228 sorry for it afterward. They had taken the ground that no delegate accredited to the Kichmond Convention, should be allowed to enter that at Baltimore. They were drawn from this point by the strong case of Mississippi. They had also declared the necessity of a pledge or under- standing, that all delegates entering the Convention, should make or assent to, to the effect that they would support the nominees of the Con- vention. After urging this for a few hours, and observing the explosive excitement engendered by it, they withdrew it. They also, or rather New York, succumbed respecting their delegation from Georgia. Yet it was impossible to satisfy the demands of the South and preserve the unity of the Convention, without passing under the yoke of Yancey, and they could not consent to that humiliation. The friends of Mr. Douglas finding their boasted availability in can- didate and platform repudiated, and themselves treated as " property," rather than Sovereign, became infuriated. They were animated by pas- sions whose force is terrible. There was in the first place an unappeas- able hungering for the spoils, common, I suppose, to all politicians. They had long been placed on short allowance. In yielding to the de- mands of the South, and following their leaders ambitious of national eminence, they had been deserted by the greater portion of the people of their own localities. They had long been stung by the taunts of their Republican neighbors, that they were serfs of Southern masters, and in the new demands and arrogant intolerance of the South, they felt that they were regarded as inferiors, and treated accordingly. They had assumed that the South was under obligations to them for fighting battles for Slavery, and were exasperated upon discovering that no such oblifi'ation was recognized as having existence. They found, in short, that they could not be " sound " on the slavery question, without yield- ing up their most profound convictions, and all manly instincts. They were prepared to say that slavery should be tolerate^d — they could even go so far as to say that they did not care whether it was voted up or down — in or out of a Territory — but they were not billing to vote it up, and glorify it as a good thing, and especially acknowledge its politi- cal pre-eminence. And behind all this, they represented the purpcses of Mr. Douglas, and had taken up his quarrel with the Lecompton wing of the party, and it became their fixed resolution to use every atom of power they could acquire, to vindicate the position of Mr. Douglas and his regularity in the party, and if possible, to assert by authority his control over the organization. They proceeded to Baltimore in a state of stimulated enthusiasm, and partial blindnes.s. They did not know the power and desperation of the South, and were foolish enough to believe the opposition to them in that quarter would quietly subside. They were, however, met in a spirit more intolerant than their own. Virginia, upon whom they had de- pended to give Douglas the nomination, in the spirit of harmony and according to Democratic usages, was the first to make threats, and finally led the seceding column — the mother of Democracy thus becom- ing chief of the seceders. The appearance of the Seceders at Baltimore, and their evident pur. pose and power to control the Convention or destroy it, produced ex 229 tremely hostile feeling on the part of the North-west. The immediate friends of Douglas became rancorous. Their temper was not improved by the fact that in the most conspicuous case, and on the vital point, they were manifestly worsted in argument. The report of Mr. Ste- vens of Oregon from the committee on Credentials, displays the strength, according to the usage of the party, of the case of the seceders. There was no way of proceeding to business, which to them had a single point — tlie nomination of Douglas — but to blow up the Convention. If a sin- gle one of the Douglas delegations from the Gulf States should be ad- mitted, the explosion would take place just as if all were admitted. The compromising and trading New Yorkers found an absence of avail- able material for obtaining advantages in political stock gambling. They were alternately bulls tossing up the Douglas stock and bears tearing it down, and yet, through all the liuctuations, they were unable to make a sale or a purchase on which any thing could be realized. The North-west was as determined and impracticable regarding one scheme as the South was regarding another. The Democracy of the North-west rose out of the status of serfdom. There was servile in- surrection, with attendant horrors, and Baltimore became a political St. Domingo. The South was amazed to hear its favorite threat of secession despised and hooted at. The seceders were sneeringly asked why they came back ? and told that they had no business there — that llichmond was the place for them. Yancey had said it would be dishonorable for se- ceders to sneak back and beg to be allowed to re-enter the Convention. Now, why were they sneaking back 'i What had they done with their honor V The double-headed mass-meetings held every night for a week, constantly inflamed every antagonism within the party. Every old fe- verish sore was rent open by speakers from one stump or the other, and the want of unity in the party was so manifest that feeble efforts to make speeches in the old time strain of "conciliation, harmony, every thing for the man, nothing for the principle," were received with deris- ion and remarks abundantly garnished with profanity, that there was no occasion for that sort of twaddle. Just in the crisis of the Convention Mr. Douglas lost his nerve, and wrote by mail and telegraph to his most confidential and influential friends, beseeching them to save the party, if it could be done by with- drawing his name from the contest. It was too late, however. He was the implement of a revolution, and it was necessary that he should be used. He had raised a greater tempest than he had imagined. He had stirred up the storm but could not control the whirlwind. After the Conventions, the feeling between the people of the Theatre and those of the Institute was so fiercely belligerant, that they could not talk in good humor. The fact that a family quarrel is of the most remorseless character, was manifest in the conversation of every group of ten persons to be seen on the streets or about the hotels. Each fac- tion accused the other in the most harsh terms, of being factionists, bolt- ers, traitors, incendiaries, etc., etc. — epithets conveying imputations offensive, in a political sense, being exhausted in vain efforts on both sides to do justice to the subject. 230 The North-western delegates, on their return home, congratulated themselves upon the presumption, that if they had ripped up the Dem- ocratic party, tlioy had shown the Republicans that they, as Democrats, were not doughfaces. The reflection that they were no more to be reproached as serfs of the South, seemed sweet and ample consolation for all the struggles and perils through which they had passed, and the pangs they had suffered in the dissolution of the party. They talked all the way over the mountains to this effect : " Well, there is one thing of which we can't be accused any more. There was not a doughface shown in the North-west." The fact is the South was never before quite so well matched in her own game of brag and intolerable arrogance. They never before met in Convention face to face, with oath to oath, anil menace for menace, and told with as much vehemence as they threaten- ed to secede, that they might " do it and be d — d." I shared a railroad .seat, when crossing the mountains, with a North- western delegate, one of the most zealous of the partisans of Douglas. He was in a bad humor with the South. I asked what was the matter. He said : "I have been vexed. After all the battles we have fought for the South — to be served in this manner — it is ungrateful and mean." He wanted the South to be made sweat under an Abolition President. He was glad Seward was not the Republican candidate, for he would be too easy on the South. He hoped Lincoln would make them sweat. The Southerners had been ruling over niggers so long they thought they could rule white men just the same. The South should not go out of the Union either. The would stay in and sweat. The fugitive slaves might go to Canada or to the devil in welcome, and their masters after them. He never would trouble his head about them any more. He did not care whether the Fugitive Slave law was enforced or not. He declared the South had alienated her best friends forever, and must now do the best she could for herself. He was also disposed to disparage the Southern country, depreciate the resources of the South, and mag- nify the evils that beset her. And this conversation, I am convinced, represents the feeling with which the North-western delegates crossed the mountains returning home. The extent and bearings of the political revolution, of which this is one of the indications, may be further illustrated from the bar- room talk at Baltimore. One delegate from Indiana was happy to tell tlie Seceders that the valley of the Wabash was worth more than all the country between the Potomac and the Rio Grande, niggers included. And then an Ohioan boasted that there was " one town in a corner of Ohio, called Cincinnati, worth more than the whole d — d State of Ala- bama. Another assured the Seceders that he thought more of Black Republicans than of such fellows as they were, and that if there was to be a fight between sections, he was for his own side of the Ohio. 281 THE SECOND RICHMOND CONVENTION. During the session of the Baltimore Convention, the South Carolina delegates remained at Richmond, and after the 21st, the day to which they had adjourned, they adjourned from day to day. On the evening of Tuesday, the 2Gth, a number of the Southern delegates were in the city, among others, Messrs. Seott and Yancey of Alabama, and the Convention assembled in Metropolitan Hall. Col. Irwin, the President, called the Convention to order. Mr. Middleton of South Carolina made a report from the committee on Credentials on the New York case (the New York Commissioners). The committee found that those commissioners had been "duly elected as delegates from the third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth Con- gressional Districts of New York to the Richmond Convention." After some discussion the whole matter was laid on the table by the following vote : Ayes — Virginia d, South Carolina 7^, Florida 3, Alabama 9, Mis- sissippi 7 — 27. Noes — North Carolina ^, South Carolina -I, Georgia 10, Louisiana 6, Texas 4—21. Mr. Dara:am of South Carolina then offered the following resolution : Resolved, That this Convention approve of the Platform of Principles recom- mended by the majority report at the Charlesto.i Convention. The question was put, and the resolution was adopted unanimously, amid loud cheering. Mr. Furman of South Carolina, on behalf of his delegation, offered the following resolution : Resolved, That John C. Breckenridge of Kentucky, and Joseph Lane of Oregon, are, and they are hereby declared to be the choice, unanimously, of this Conven- tion, for President and Vice-President of the United States. There were a few votes of thanks, as usual on such occasions, and the Convention adjourned sine die. The Richmond Enquirer says : '' The galleries during the session were thronged, and whilst there was great enthusiasm, there was no one occasion, in the slightest degree, to disturb good order. All the proceedings were conducted with a calm- ness, dignity and decorum which we have never seen excelled." oo.O The lesson to the Nation of the Presipential Caucuses of 18G0 is the necessity for the abolition of the Caucus System, which, in whatever party organization operative, is a system of swindling, by which the people are defrauded out of the effective exercise of the right of suffrage. There is no honesty in caucuses, no sound principle or g')od policy, except by accident ; and the accidents that furnish the exception are rare indeed. The revenues of King Caucus are corruption funds — and his gov- ernment costs the country at least fifty million dollars annually — his platforms of principles are elaborations of false pretenses — his nominees are his obsequious viceroys — and he is the power behind the chairs of our chief magistrates, and under the tables of our cabinets, far more potent than those who visibly assume authority. If a Republican form of government is to be preserved in our con- federacy, the people must make a bonfire of his throne. The official reports from wliich this compilation has been largely made up, appeared in the following journals : The Mercury and the Courier of Charleston; the Press and Tribune of Chicago; the Balti- more Clipper (for the " Constitutional Union " Convention); the Balti- more American and Sun, for the National Democratic Conventions ; and the Richmond Enquirer for the Convention held in that city. ERRATA. ^ Page 9, first liae, second paragraph, for '^ Magmlia Hall" read " Mbertm Page 31, last line, read "equivocal" for "equivalent." Page 101, last line of page, read "leonine" instead of "canine." H94 75 'i ■^o V^ o'^ ?.° -n^ ^ 0' ,-^ ^^ .C ^^ a 0^ i-'J. 4^& "^-^.-n^' :; ''^-'^O^' .>^^/' "ov^^ ° .V ^^r .v^. .,^.' ,/' X '--^^viv y -" •>-. ,v 'o V ^o. .0^ V /4/*^ V. ^^' c" A V ."^ \ -it. /^ .r (/> .0' kV ./ ^ ^> ,^ -' ' o .0 ^'^' V •^/^^J^^-/ .\\' ii-dfu^. O N O > V" ■^ ^ ■^ -^ "'ftp-- .-^'^ '■ ^ ^ >.^4*'^"^- ^ "> -' ?^r fe NO^ 74 f!'S^ N. MANCHESTER. ^^^ INDIANA -0