In making this decision the minds of the people naturally revert to the records of the Republican party as manifested through its administration of the Government, its vindication of its professed principles, its fulfilment of its promises for the redemption of the nation. And what is that record? Upon its accession to power in 1861 the Republican party found the country upon the verge of a civil war. Some of the nation's strongholds were already in the hands of the traitors, and the incompetency and weakness of its predecessor were everywhere apparent. Never in all its history had such an opportunity been presented it to redeem the pledges it had made in the interests of human justice and human freedom. True to its loyal instincts it rose to the dignity and the grandeur of the occasion. It at once instituted the most vigorous measures for the National defence. By it the most wicked rebellion ever organized among men was put down. Through the Republican party the integrity of the Union was preserved, and its place maintained among the nations of the earth as one of the leading powers. By it financial measures were inaugurated and carried out that have brought unparalleled prosperity to the country. By it the credit of the nation has become firmly established at home and abroad. Through its labors in the cause of human freedom the bondmen have become emancipated and assume equal rights with freemen. By a wise administration in its foreign relations the country is at peace with all nations, and the citizens of the American Republic traveling in foreign climes are honored and respected. By a vigorous enforcement of the laws, criminals of every degree, in all sections of the country, have been brought to justice. By it bands of deadly assassins, skulking at midnight behind hideous disguises, and warring upon innocent women and children have been suppressed and broken up. And by it they have been compelled to answer for their numerous crimes. Through the unwearied efforts of the Republican party Universal Suffrage has become a law of the Nation, freedom of speech and freedom of opinion everywhere vindicated throughout the land, and the right to exercise the elective franchise as their consciences might dictate, guaranteed to all. By it the States lately in insurrection have been reconstructed upon a prosperous basis, and brought back into the folds of the Union. By it the public lands have been opened to settlers; manufactures stimulated through the establishment of a judicious tariff, and labor dignified and made prosperous through an enhanced remuneration for services performed, and a reduction in the hours of toil. * * * * *