Happy would it have been, if the transactions disclosed in your communication had never taken place, or that they could have been concealed. Sensibly, however, as we feel the wound which has been inflicted, we think with you, that neither the honor nor the interest of the United States forbid the repetition of advances for preserving peace; and we are happy to learn that fresh attempts at negotiation will be commenced; nor can we too strongly express our sincere desires that an accommodation may take place, on terms compatible with the rights, interest, and honor of our nation. Fully, however, impressed with the uncertainty of the result, we shall prepare to meet with fortitude any unfavorable events which may occur, and to extricate ourselves from the consequences, with all the skill we possess, and all the efforts in our power. Believing with you that the conduct of the Government has been just and impartial to foreign nations; that the laws for the preservation of peace have been proper, and that they have been fairly executed, the Representatives of the People do not hesitate to declare that they will give their most cordial support to the execution of principles so deliberately and uprightly established. The many interesting subjects which you have recommended to our consideration, and which are so strongly enforced by this momentous occasion, will receive every attention which their importance demands; and we trust, that by the decided and explicit conduct which will govern our deliberations, every insinuation will be repelled which is derogatory to the honor and independence of our country. Permit us, in offering this Address, to express our satisfaction at your promotion to the first office in the Government, and our entire confidence that the pre-eminent talents and patriotism which have placed you in this distinguished situation, will enable you to discharge its various duties with satisfaction to yourself, and advantage to our common country. The Clerk having finished reading the Answer, the Chairman proceeded to read it paragraph by paragraph. The three first paragraphs were read without any thing being said upon them; but, upon the fourth being read-- Mr. EVANS moved, that instead of "will be felt with _indignation_," should be inserted, "will be felt with _sensibility_," as a milder phrase; as he wished to avoid using expressions more harsh than was necessary.