at recess of his heart his worst wish towards America was
deposited he would drag it forth to the light, that his opponent might
grapple with it in their presence. He would not soften down any of
his language; he would not sugar over his words, he would not abate
one iota of what he had ever said in reference to the wickedness of
America on former occasions. Let his opponent weigh every syllable he
(Mr. T.) had uttered, every statement he had ever made, every charge
he had ever brought against his country or against his cloth, and if
he found that he had exaggerated facts or stated what was not true, he
would be glad to be shown it. He was there before them and his
opponent to search after the truth, truth which would outlive Mr.
Breckinridge--truth which would outlive Geo. Thompson--truth which was
far more valuable than the proudest victory--truth which was
invaluable to both--and let the truth stand out during the discussion
which might follow; and when they had found out the truth, if they saw
anything which had to be taken back--anything to be given up--anything
for which to be sorry, he would try to outstrip his opponent in his
readiness to retract what was wrong, to yield what was untenable, and
to express his sorrow before God and the audience for what he had
undeservedly said of America. With regard to the feelings he
entertained towards the Americans, he need only refer to the last
letter he had published to the American people, from which he would
read a passage to show the feelings he entertained towards that
country, as well as to those of her citizens who might reach these
shores from America. Mr. Thompson then read the following passages:--

I love America, because her sons, though my persecutors, are
immortal--because 'they know not what they do,' or if
enlightened and wilful, are so much the more to be pitied and
cared for. I love America, because of the many affectionate
friends I have found upon her shores, by whom I have been
cherished, refreshed and strengthened; and upon whose regard
I place an incalculable value. I love America, for there
dwells the fettered slave--fettered and darkened, and
degraded now, but soon to spring into light and liberty, and
rank on earth, as he is ranked in heaven, 'but a little lower
than the angels.' I love America, because of the many mighty
and magnificent enterprises in which she has embarked for the
salvation of