lling to say so; every man willing to admit
it as an act of lawless violence. We came here hoping that, at
this time of peace and quiet, we might examine, inquire into, and
pass upon, practical measures of legislation tending to harmonize
the conflicting elements of the government and strengthen the bonds
of Union. The interests of a great and growing people present
political questions enough to tax the ability and patriotism of us
all.

"Such was our duty; but the moment we arrived here--before, sir,
we even had a formal vote,--this question of slavery was raised by
the introduction of the resolution of the gentleman from Missouri.
It has had the effect of exciting the public mind with an irritating
controversy. It has impaired the public credit and retarded the
public business. The debate founded upon it has been unjust,
offensive, wrong, not only to the Republicans here, not only to
those with whom I act, but to all our common constituents, north
and south. The gentlemen who have advocated that resolution have
stirred up bad blood, and all because certain gentlemen have
recommended that a compilation be made of a book. Even yet we may
retrieve the loss of valuable time. We could now go to work,
organize the House and administer the powers of this House with
fairness and impartiality.

"In conclusion, let me say that by no act or effort have I sought
the position I now occupy before the House. The honor was tendered
me by the generous confidence and partiality of those with whom it
has been my pride to act, politically. Their conduct in this
irritating controversy has justified my attachment.

"If I shall ever reach the speaker's chair, it will be with
untrammeled hands and with an honest purpose to discharge every
duty in the spirit which the oath of office enjoins; and to organize
the House with reference to the rights and interests of every
section, the peace and prosperity of the whole Union, and the
efficient discharge of all the business of the government. And
whenever friends who have so gallantly and liberally sustained me
thus far believe that my name in any way presents an obstacle to
success, it is my sincere wish that they should adopt some other.
Whenever any one of my political friends can combine a greater
number of votes than I have been honored with, or sufficient to
elect him by a majority or plurality rule, I will not stand in this
position one hour; I will retire from the field, and