sincerely desire peace and amity with England; that I even prefer an adjustment of all differences with her, before one with any other nation. But if she persist in a denial of justice to us, or if she avails herself of the occupation of West Florida to commence war upon us, I trust and hope that all hearts will unite in a bold and vigorous vindication of our rights.’ The effect produced by Mr. Clay’s speech was most obvious, inducing many of the most strenuous opposers of the course pursued by the president, who were firmly resolved on recording their votes in disapproval of it, to come frankly forward and candidly to acknowledge their error, and express their determination to sustain him in this measure. They were true to their declaration, and thus the approval of the proclamation was secured. But ‘had there been at that time in the senate no democratic champion like Mr. Clay――one who could stand up among the tall and fierce spirits of faction to vindicate the rights of our country, and utter a solemn warning in the ears of those who would wantonly throw the key of her strength into the hands of an enemy――it is difficult to say how imminently dangerous might have been the present condition of the republic.’ Mr. Clay’s labors during the remainder of the session were arduous and unremitted, as well as most valuable, to particular individuals as well as to the nation. The discharge of his duty towards his country, he seems ever to have considered of the most pressing importance, and it is gladdening to the heart of every true American to witness the disinterested, the noble and generous manner with which it was performed. In whatever relations, and however circumstanced we find him, we see him presenting, in this respect, one unvaried aspect. He took an active part in all the discussions of consequence, where any important and essential principle was involved. He was several times appointed one of a committee, to whom matters of interest were referred. Here he displayed accurate discrimination, soundness of judgment, and great ability, in immediately discerning and seizing the strong points of a subject, calculated to render conspicuous its merits or expose its defects. He acted as chairman of a committee, to whom was recommitted a bill, granting a right of preëmption to purchasers of public lands, in certain cases, and reported it with amendments, which were read. After receiving some alterations, it was again recommitted, reported, and finally passed the senate. The cause of the poor settler and the hardy pioneer could not have been committed to better hands――to one who would more studiously and feelingly consult their best interests. Experience had made him acquainted with the privations, wants, and toils, which they were compelled to encounter, in causing the forest to recede before their slow, fatiguing march, and this opened a wide avenue to the fountain of his sympathetic feelings, which gushed spontaneously