IN WAR TIME. TWO YEARS IN THE CONFEDERACY -AND— TWO YEARS NORTH. With Many Reminiscences of the Days Long Before the War. BY EDWIN G. BOOTH. PHILADELPHIA : JOHN D. AV1L & CO., PRINTERS AND PUBLISHERS, 3941-43-45 Market Street, 1885. *«5 r s PREFACE The productions from which this book is composed originally ap- peared in the columns of Forney's Progress, and were drawn out by a request from myself for some circumstances of the life of Mr. Booth. There was no expectation that they would extend into book form, and consequently they are without the usual system or order. It is perhaps more desirable that they thus spring from a warm heart thau a cold head. They may be enlarged, classified and improved hereafter if their reception and circulation justify a second edition. J. W. FORNEY, Editor of Progress. 1526 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, February 2, 1885. To the Editor of Progress : Dear Sir : — I regret that the final proof sheets of your Progress arrived just as I am about leaving the city, compelling me to leave on you the responsibility of the whole publication, with its errors and merits, not being conscious of any special excellence myself. From hasty glances at portions I commend your skill in guessing at imperfect chirography and punctuation, and hope your expectations may not be disappointed. With high respect, EDWIN G. BOOTH. TABLE OF CONTENTS. Solicitations of Editors, and Responses, ........ 4 References to Judges Moncure and Sharswood, ....... 7 Incidents Connected with Running the Blockade and Marriage, ... 9 First Interview with President Lincoln, 12 Prisoners of War at Fort Delaware and Richmond, 13 Plans of Adjustment by Messrs. Ewing, Crittenden, etc., 15 Appointment Offered to Robert E. Scott, Esq., 16 The Present Duty of All, . 18 The South and the Tariff, ........... 19 Visit to Washington City, and Great Speeches of Great Men, . . . . 21 Amusing Mistakes Connected with Virginia Convention of 1829, ... 23 Mr. Clay and Gov. Tyler at Dinner Party in Petersburg, Va., . . . . 27 Virginia Statesmen — W. C. Rives, Gov. Wise, W. C. Preston, and others, . . 31 Salt Pond in Giles County, Va., 33 Great Revivals — Drs. Pryor and Hoyt, 35 Philadelphia Centennial, 1876— Hon. S. J. Randall's Speech, .... 37 Yorktown Celebration — Mr. Winthrop, etc., 39 James River Mansions and Distinguished Families, 39 President Taylor, W. C. Preston, Revs. Drs. Plumer and Hill, .... 40 Mr. Blaine's Book, 43 The Slavery Question Settled ; Tariff, etc., 46 References to Gen. Lee in Mr. Blaine's Book, 49 Misfortune of a Fortune and Fortune of a Misfortune, 52 Peace Conferences in Washington in 1861 , 54 Introduction to Supplement ; Gen. Lee's Letter, etc., 59 Obstacles to Harmonious Co-operation Removed, ....... 63 Gens. Reynolds and McCall as Prisoners, ........ 65 Southern Prisoners and References to Hons. Davis, Hunter, and Toombs, . . 66 Mr. Toombs's Great Speech, . 68 Mr. Lincoln's Apparition 73 The Shipping Interest, 75 Briscoe G. Baldwin at Jamestown, 77 List of Delegates to Virginia Convention of 1829, S3 References to Particular Members, 86 Professional References to Case of George Chorpenning, 87 Response to Application for Advice from the South, 96 Proceedings in Memoriam of Judges Moncure and Ould, ..... 104 Great Debate between Messrs. Webster and Hayne, 11 1 Address of Rev. Dr. Hoge at the Funeral of Judge Ould and Appendix by Mr. Booth, 140 The New and Higher Life, 142 Sacred Poetry, . . .......... 169 References to Sermon by Rev. Dr. H. A. Boardman, 172 Conversation between Rev. John Wesley and Mr. Simeon, . . . . 177 Remarks at Union Prayer Meeting in Calvary Church, . . . . . 179 Extracts from Speeches in Virginia Convention of 1829, . . . . . 182 Remarks at Prayer Meeting Preceding Communion, ...... 203 Retrospect and Conclusion, . . . . . . . . . 220 Over 60 Photographs, ........ At the end of Book THE REQUEST TO MR. BOOTH. The readers of Progres , are aware that I have been publishing a series of brief personal sketches under the head of " Little Biogra- phies." It was the intention that these sketches should include prin- cipally personages of particular interest to Pennsylvania and Philadel- phia. The name of Mr. Booth having been mentioned in connection with this series, I recalled that Mr. Booth was possessed of a vast fund of reminiscences of men and things, both North and South, during and just preceding the war. In my request to him, therefore, that he would allow a sketch of himself to appear among the Progress biographies, I added that I would be still further obliged if he would detail some of his reminiscences. I then found that this same request had been made to Mr. Booth by prominent people North and South very frequently, but that he had not cared to undertake the work. However, he replied to my letter, and the first article appearing, he found himself in for it, and there was no retreat. It was then discovered that the matter would far outgrow the proportions of Progress, and this Progress Supplement is the result. It will be noted that Mr. Booth goes over much of the ground red by Mr. Blaine in his " Twenty Years in Congress," but from different standpoints. J. W. Forney, Editor of Progress. SOMETHING IN THE NATURE OF A PREFACE. Chestnut Hill, Wissahickon Inn, Philadelphia, June 7th, 1884. To the Editor of Progress : Your unexpected and unmerited application for some incidents of my life has remained unanswered from reluctance to encounter any appearance of egotism or vanity, and really from the dearth of mate- rials for anything interesting or useful to others. For years and more especially in the last few weeks, I have been pressed and importuned for some delineation and perpetuation of oc- currences transpiring during my residence for the first two years in the Southern Confederacy and the last two in the North, without the least equivocation or concealment or insincerity of any kind, being over the fighting age and sufficiently connected with the politics and legislation of the country, and the preparation of what was regarded by others as the best code of laws in 1849, my native State of Yirginia ever had, to command some confidence and consideration in whatever I might express or present. It is a remarkable fact, that under a special friendly invitation I took breakfast at his mansion with President Davis, in company with one of the present distinguished Southern Senators, and in about thirty days or less was with President Lincoln in his Presidential Mansion, having run the blockade under matrimonial proclivities existing before the war, presenting to him a telegram from a lady (in absence of any other safe communication) from a foreign locality, with the remark that such telegram would inform him where I came from and where I came to and what for, and if I could not feel that I had bought, paid for and had a deed to every inch of land I walked on, I would seek the liberty of foreign monarchies. Some incidents that occurred might be too delicate and tedious for present presentation. It seemed just into his hand and good heart. My marriage occurred in Philadelphia in about ten days, I never having been catechised by any one as to my political predilections or encountering the slightest interruption. It is sufficient to say, that telegram is now before me, bearing date April 27th, 1863, with Mr. Lincoln's well-known signature and chirography on the back of it, and laughed at all the locksmiths, cannons and cannon balls and oce- tempests, never encountering a suspicion or equivocation or inqu into my sentiments or actions, helping all the Confederate prisoners under Government permit from the authorities of Federal prisons, having visited untrammelled Generals Reynolds and McCall in a Rich- mond prison ; having also gone into Washington while Mr. Lincoln's dead body was in mournful prostration, and every inlet and outlet guarded by military in glittering array, looking for a nia nnamed Booth, but disappointed in the one whose name is now registered boldly on the books of Willard's and the War Department of that date, the peculiar incidents furnishing materials for a volume, and if desired, some may appear in a future communicatiou, unless you should be appalled by the rashness and futility of your unexpected applica- tion. My relations towards your distinguished father corresponding with any personal liberty he might seek, though differing politically, but with no recollection of a minute's conversation or correspondence with you, certainly not on these subjects, and by eliciting them in more permanent form and substance may render much service in scouting the absurd accounts of barbarity and inhumanity circulated on both sides of the contending nations, it being somewhat strange and unaccountable that at the present day the relish for such remin- iscences seems to ' have revived, under the subsidence of the then existing angry white caps silencing all reason and credibility. Whether these hasty and incoherent exhibitions will be continued will depend on others, having no other desire nor interest, unless consum- mat ions of eal value. As to any incidents of my private life, I am not aware of anything interesting to the public, unless the preparation of a State code of laws, with the highest, or highest order of judicial luminaries, some incidents of general value in such preparations suitable for all. It is somewhat singular and opportune that in a recent memorial meeting of the talented bar of Richmond, Va., and elsewhere, the circumstan- ces required my participation as the only surviving associate of the lamented Chief Justice R. C. L. Moncure as appointed by the Legis- lature ; the distinguished Conway Robinson dying since that meeting, leaving only Wm. M. Ambler, appointed from the Senate. These remarks, having been put in print; can be easily incorporated if desirable, to others, as expressions of such important occurrences, and perhaps useful in subsequent similar exigencies, thus, at least relieving myself of some responsibilities, with additions of names and letters as specimens of many other sufficient for the responsibilities of the giants of the law and gospel, and requisite for proper considera- tion of the Appendix referred to by Judge Strong specially, and prob- ably incidentally by others, and too long for present incorporation. It is somewhat singular that about the same time memorial meet- ings were held in different States aud for different luminaries of the law and otherwise, perhaps never in personal associations, members of different churches dying in Christian triumph with corresponding triumphant expression and manifestations. Judge Christian, a former Associate Judge of the Supreme Court of Virginia, had immediately preceded me in eloquent and expressive and impressive references to Judge Moncure's dying manifestations. I happened to be a witness to Judge George Sharswood, when that form I had been so delighted to meet and to greet at my own table and fireside was prostrated and powerless ; that tongue, uttering such soft and mellifluent benignant cadences, still in approaching dissolu- tion. But oh, how consoling to hear from those humble, devoted un- sophisticated servants, that amongst its very last utterances was the word Heaven referred to by the eloquent minister at his funeral, and thus doubtless the first in Heaven, Judge Moncure was President of the Virginia Court of Appeals, about thirty years. Judge Sharswood was not President so long, but wore and adorned the judicial ermine in the different courts a longer period. Other coincidents were in wonderful similarity, and I was tempted at the Philadelphia bar meeting to repeat the same words as in Richmond for Judge Moncure, and now desire to supply the omis- sion by adopting them for Judge Sharswood in present connection as beacon luminaries and constellations for the general bar of the whole country. But I fear the flood tide of my impulses will not leave enough materials, for the intimations of continuance previously ex- pressed. If of relief to peruse the sentiments of others, I place at your com- mand and disposal the letters of such distinguished luminaries as Judge Wm, Strong, late of the U. S. Supreme Court; Hon. Robt. C. Wiuthrop, Hon. Chas. J. Faulkner, Minister to France ; Hon. Hugh W. Sheffey, and others of gushing sensibility concerning the memorial proceedings of Judges Moncure and Ould, having elevated apprecia- tion of both of these testimonials; also including eminent divines. The result of circumstances in January preceding the war placed me in cordial personal association with such as Hons. John J. Crittenden, Samuel F. Vinton and Thomas Ewing, and through him with Hon. John Sherman, W. H. Seward, and others, some circumstances known to few about the offer, through Mr. Seward, of Cabinet appointment to my friend and legislative and judicial associate on the Virginia code, Robt. E. Scott, having alluded to my association with President Davis and President Lincoln during the war ; also entertained at his private residence in Ohio by Hon. Thomas Ewing, presided over with elevated dignity and grace by his daughter, Mrs. General Sherman; was at Clifton House, Canada, in personal association with Hon. Jere Black, Mr. Holcomb, Mr. Vallandigham, and my old friend and college mate, Jacob Thompson, and with access to the views of all as to the manner in which the war might have been prevented, how it might have been terminated, preparations for another Hampton Roads conference, or rather this time City Point or vicinity ; sleeping in General Meade's tent in efforts to protect the country successfully. I was with Hon. Millard Fillmore in his own residence, and, with others of distinction and varying sentiments. If any or all these coin- cidents in full description can afford real good, I might make the attempt ; but certainly not if such delineation required animadversion or unfavorable criticism of a single individual, considering the circum- stances of their pecular positions. JUDGES MONCURE AND SHARSWOOD. Chestnut Hill, Wissahickon Inn, Philadelphia. June 20th, 1884. To the Editor of Progress: Your complimentary comment and suggestions at the close of the first instalment of my response to your application, with other presen- tations, justify, and somewhat require, explanation and enlargement, at least to the extent of exemplifying the allusions therein contained to the speeches and references to Judges Moncure aftd Sharswood not otherwise intelligible ; premising that your first solicitation suggested no particular topics nor restrictions, but leaving all to the " currente calamo " et animo ; your caption embracing North and South, and thus some remarks pertaining particularly to the one, not so interest- ing to the other. Having referred to the speeches in connection with Judge Moncure as applicable to Judge Sharswood, at least some 8 extracts may be essential to proper elucidation with favorable opportun- ity of supplying omission of some in the first publication not then accessible. Extracts from Mr. Booth's speech : It seems inscrutable that we should mourn the departure of such individuals while so many less worthy remain. * * * He had appropriated those great doctrines of faith, repentance, Holy Spirit, atoning blood, sovereign grace, substitution, adoption, that make death and the grave run like cowards. The valley may be dark and the clouds lowering, but spanned by a bright bow of promise dispelling all gloom. * * * His sun of life has set forever ; but the bright beams of his example will long linger on the horizon to cheer the ris- ing youth of our country in the paths of virtue, honor and renown. Of those not then accessible, from Richard Parker, a learned Judge of the Virginia courts, Winchester, Va : Judge Moncure was so amiable and warmhearted, so frank and open, so courteous in manner and free from guile, that he soon won, and ever afterward retained, the sincere affection of all with whom, in the course of their employment or otherwise, he was brought into contact. His sense of justice seemed to be innate. His determination to act only as his judgment convinced him was always apparent. Pre- judice could not sway his conduct, nor could the claims of friendship draw him away from the path of truth and justice. From Hon. J. V. Brooke, eminent in various positions, a relative of Judge Brooke, of the Supreme Court of Virginia, and recently dele- gate to the Presbyterian General Assembly, in Vicksburg, Miss. : The character of Judge Moncure was sui generis. It cannot well be denned by comparison with any other, however strongly marked. It was not cast in a common mould. It was a rare composite of Doric strength and Corinthian beauty, reared upon the solid foundation of a child-like and unquestioning faith in God. He was in no sense a " Man of the World." Between him and the busy, bustling, jostling crowd that throng the highways of trade and traffic, there was an im- measurable distance. If he was ever brought into contact with the gossip and scandal that so disturbs communities, it was only through the medium of his profession. * * * In the death of Judge Moncure the Bench, the Bar, the State, the Country have sustained a loss well nigh irreparable. THE BLOCKADE RUNNING. Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. July 5th, 1884. To the Editor of Progress : Your continued approbation, appreciation and anticipation of use- fulness encourage further presentation of incidents and occurrences of interest, and perhaps of some historical importance for any further similar emergencies. You, however, very reasonably suggest the futility of publishing in a weekly journal, devoted to other topics, such reminiscences and asso- ciations that might fill a volume, referring as you do to Mr. Blaine's first volume of 646 pages of historical interest and information. The extracts you publish from speeches without the foundation or fountain from which they spring, may be regarded as mutilations, and really unintelligible references to what does not appear to the present reader ; and still all you can do under the circumstances without inter- ference with your prescribed limits and topics. It may thus be re- garded that the suggestion of an extra Progress will be adopted, and thus less trammel and restriction admissible. Your last number hav- ing partially explained and exemplified the coincident allusions to Judges Moncure and Sharswood, at least till space and opportunity of more extended speeches and references, the way is opened for elucida- tion of some of the other topics referred to in the first instalment of reply to your kind solicitation. The most remarkable, and perhaps the most unique personal occur- rence during the war, is presented in the account of that blockade {not blockhead) expedition, embellished by the interesting incidents and concomitants and consummations previously intimated, exciting tender and conjugal exhilarations in the reminiscences of some, and transfus- ing and transporting anticipations of others. That a telegram laugh- ing at locksmiths, cannons, cannon balls, ocean tempests, glittering hostile military armaments, should, nevertheless, result in such blissful consummations, is certainly sufficient to justify desire for further ex- planations, that others may profit by such experiences, and, indeed, similar improvement in such exploits and consequences in the senti- ment and action under the enchanting emotions of the verse : Thanks to my gentle, absent friend, A kiss you in your letter send; That fruit can only tasteful be When taken melting from the tree . 10 Even personal exhibitions and occurrences may sometimes be so connected with public and political associations as to serve as illustra- tions of events of general historical significance, and thus under desire expressed ; at least some toleration of further allusion and description of that wonderfully successful blockade running, with so many thrilling- incidents of such thrilling times, being perhaps the only person North and South encountering such occurrences from the peculiar incidental circumstances and associations. Providence seemed to open for me a wonderful opportunity for run- ning the blockade as the protector of a highly esteemed lady relative and her dear little children desirous of encountering ocean tempests in reunion with husband and father in a foreign land. Finding him with open arms to receive them on the banks of Bermuda Island, I cheerfully surrendered my charge, having safely landed from the ship Cornubia, having had 27 shots fired at her on a previous trip and captured soon after and taken into Philadelphia, but not the slightest molestation to us. A British steamer being ready I took passage for Halifax, Nova Scotia. Some strong Southern sympathizers resided there, giving me assur- ance of their friendly consideration but with strong recommendation of caution and circumspection that the American Consul there had spies all over the city watching the arrival, movements and departure < if Southerners, that all occuring would be reported to the Federal authorities. Not feeling exposed to any such espionage or distinction I walked boldly into his office and stated I had been informed he had spies all over the city watching the arrival, movements and departure of South- erners that I had called to save him that trouble, that I was just from the South, desired to go into the States, that one object was to ascer- tain whether there were any materials of peace between the contending nations, exciting some discussion, and indeed, some momentary hesita- tion, but I continued firmly with the accompanying declaration that being an old Presbyterian Elder I had no equivocations nor conceal- ments that my real object was to see my sweetheart, but would not go till (not in pride nor vanity, but conscious purity of intention) I could feel I had bought, paid for, and had a deed to every inch of land I walked on, being the same subsequently repeated to Mr. Lincoln. "We were quietly seated together. He was not satisfied with merely 11 rising, but seemed to leap above the floor, moving around me with the remark, " My friend, you are so bold and candid, there is no harm in you. I will do all I can for you. I am going to Washington next week and will confer with the Cabinet and write to you/' with which he faithfully complied and did thus write to me stating that it was not the practice to issue passports, but that I might rely there would be no interruption on proper deportment. I will add with pleasant recollec- tions that this Consul was Judge Jackson, of Illinois, and if alive I hope will allow my sincere obligations and assurances, and if a widower would cheerfully reciprocate any such facilities and manifestations in his behalf. Prior to his return, however, that famous telegram referred to ar- rived with my response, "On the way rejoicing," repeating that lock- smiths, cannons, cannon balls and ocean tempests all evaporated into insignificance. Taking a British steamer touching at Halifax for Bos- ton, I felt perfectly secure from every kind of molestation. On approach to Boston I found there was a detective on board whose duty it was to scrutinize every passenger, taking strict account of all his incidents, antecedents and surroundings, his age, height, color of his hair, eyes, birth-place, where from, where going, what for, in- deed minutely precluding all deception or escape. He came into my stateroom early in the morning while in my berth head turned from him, lying still after a night's rocking. He commenced on my com- panion in the upper berth with all these inquiries and investigations, in my full hearing. I concluded I was then certainly gone as I intended to tell the whole truth without the slightest consideration, hesitation or dissimulation. I turned towards him not previously aware of any special nausea or seasickness. But the effort and motion of turning caused me involun- tarily to heave. I remarked simply and truly he could see I was very sick, I would thank him to pass on and return, that I would give him a full account. He replied very politely, " Certainly, sir, it will do as well." It seemed to escape his further attention, not returning and certainly not commanding m special desire for his acquaintance though evinc- ing good feeling and sympathy, and not avoiding him. I thus went into Boston, thence through New York to Philadelphia, registering at one of the principal hotels, some occurrences beyond 12 expression, though of joyous impression, went into Washington with full circle blue cloak, peculiar to Virginia or the South, eliciting special attention and commendation on Pennsylvania avenue, and thus on to the great White House, with incidents previously described, just enough so to mutilate and interfere with extended narration here. One incident I will relate. Seeming with special Presidential protection, I went early to the Presidential Mansion, having given some previous intimation of my visit and object, and took my position in a passage through which-A supposed the President would pass to his office. I could not understand why the surging crowd should be passing diiferently. A gentleman kindly remarked to me that if I wished to see the President I was in the wrong position, that I should go to a certain room for visitors in their turn. On my arrival there I found it so crowded that with my other business I would not have remained. About 2 o'clock, p. m., a messenger appeared at the door vociferating to an anxious crowd, " The President will see no more to-day." Of course I could only be still, and while reflecting what I should do the same appeared soon after with the proclamation, " The Presi- dent will see Mr. Booth." This was about the next joyful announce- ment I had encountered, and joyfully responded to with the incidents previously described as far as practicable, returning to Philadelphia without the slightest molestation. I became connected by marriage with property in as many as nine different Northern States and a larger number of agents referred to in illustration of my opportunity of ascertaining the condition of the whole country from extended visits on my bridal tour. There was not what might be called a faded spot in the whole country. Every blacksmith shop, factory, mine, city, village, farm, and indeed scissors and needles, all in prosperous advantageous use in connection with the war. Those out of the Army were most interested and clamorous for continuance of the war. I saw at once it was only a question of time that the South must wear down under the effects of mere time. My whole policy and plans were directed towards the best means of terminating hostilities, the foaming white caps too fierce for speedy conciliation. PRISONERS OF WAR. My whole attention was directed toward the Confederate prisoners. 13 When Fort Delaware became the receptacle I wrote to the officer in command that some were my friends or the sons of my friends ; that I did not desire him to violate any duty, but only asked to know how far in the discharge of his duty I would be allowed to assist them. I speedily secured permit in illustrated Government envelope, with only reasonable restrictions, assisting some in clothing and otherwise, ex- ceeding one hundred dollars each. Only one box of luxuries was with- held from those to whom they were sent, but turned over to the Con- federate Hospital, a better destination, having assurance that even smaller amounts had saved life. I recollect that General Johnson de- clined supplies as he messed with General Trimble with superabund- ant provisions, generously recommending others. It was in my power to correct some of the exaggerated descriptions of the Southern prisoners. As previously stated I had been with Generals McCall and Reynolds in a large room with two beds and but two occupants. Mr. Biddle, who died, had as good medical attention as Richmond afforded, and I sent to his family the statement of his physician that he expressed entire satisfaction with his treatment. Even at Libby the choice was between crowded like figs in a drum without the figs, or exposure to the elements, with the earth for a couch and the heavens for a cover- ing ; persons formerly enjoying the comforts of life suffering for ordi- nary necessaries, some of my own relatives reduced to broom-corn. It may sweeten the acerbity of sectional asperity to remove these ex- aggerated acrimonies, as each section, no doubt, did what circumstances allowed, the lamented Judge Ould, commissioner for exchange of prisoners, exciting high appreciation of his benevolence within the bounds of duty and propriety. Some deference is due to an invaded country and cause great exasperations, and thus let all the wounds from this source be cicatrized in the conviction that each section did all reasonably expected under the circumstances. I stated that I went into Washington while Mr. Lincoln's dead body was in the city and all looking for a man named Booth, having been warned that such would be torn in pieces without opportunity of explanation. There was no way of getting South except on steamer with Govern- ment permit, and applying at the War Office, was told no business was in progress, but that the matter of passport might be considered, and 1 requested, if possible, that mine should be sent to Willard's Hotel by 2 p. m., as the steamer would start at three. Before the time my full 14 name appeared there on such permit. Putting it in my pocket and going in the steamer, I felt as safe as in my own house. But arriving near Point Lookout the steamer was stopped and boarded by a file of soldiers in peculiarly glittering array. All the passengers were ordered to one end of the boat and fortifications erected, so that only one could pass at a time under vigilant examina- tion and comparison with Wilkes Booth's photograph, and passing between this double file of soldiers with muskets and bayonets in pol- ished brilliancy. As each passenger preceded me I could hear the usnal words — all right, go ahead, and not considering that my name was Smith, Jones, or Booth, simply exhibiting my envelope with name annexed and could not well comprehend a peculiar commotion and motion of the examining first officer or his signs and gesticulations to his comrades. Not exhibiting the slightest perturbation or concern I noticed the change in his countenance as in rather supplicating tones he asked, " Look here, you are not the man we are looking for, are you ? " I simply replied I did not belong to that distinguished family, was only a plain, common citizen, passing to my Southern home, and did pass unscared and unharmed between the formidable files of mili- tary magnates, according to appearances. In passing to my home south of Petersburg I must have been through or near half a million of bipeds and quadrupeds. Reaching my home after dark, and seated at a supper table, my faithful colored old head man, whom I had not seen for several years, came to the door to tell me four men were breaking into the smokehouse. I went out and ordered them to de- sist, with reply they only wanted something to eat. I told them I would share my preparation with them, which they accepted without further hesitation. Hearing that a daughter was beyond the then Federal lines with some relatives, really living on broom-corn seed, I went into the Federal camp, sleeping in General Meade's tent or per- haps that usually occupied by his polite and attentive son. I was very generously furnished with carriage and horses, brought my daughter through the lines to her own home without the slightest molestation, the most suspicious glances being from Confederates at Federal equipage. General Meade, at my instance, cheerfully issued an order to respect private property, and General Sheridan's whole cavalry passed through my farm near my dwelling, and I think one bucket of spring water would measure the entire damage, under polite application, and others similarly fortunate. 15 AN ANECDOTE TOLD BY GEN. M BADE. I must herein be allowed to repeat a little anecdote, perhaps only as ajoke related to me by General Meade, none begrudging- a little healing balm to those in need of something healing, or cicatrizing to wounded sensibilities from defeat, but nothing worse. He said that after the surrender at Appomattox he was riding into the Confederate lines. The Confederate picket or sentinel had not heard of the sur- render, and, observing his uniform, commanded him to stop, and per- haps his life would have been the forfeit of disobedience. He said he did stop and remained till he could get some pass. During the inter- val a conversation was inaugurated by the Confederal sentinel with the remark, " Look here, old fellow, how many men have you all got, they say you have fifteen to our one." " No, we have not," said Gen. Meade, " it has been a fair fight according to the principles of the South, before the war, that one Southerner was equal to five North- erners. It has always been said that when persons have had a fair fight they should become good friends, and thus let it be." General Meade also remarked to me previously perhaps, that with the simple recognition of the authority of the general government the South should have all her rights, and if now alive and a Presidential nom- ination desirable, and best suited to both sections, no nominating convention would be necessary, but General Meade by general accla- mation, it having been my intense desire through the whole war, when South and North, and in conference with the extremes of both parties, to fix upon the best adjustment for all concerned, having already mentioned certain names coming within the current of obser- vation and reflection, and I think could state the respective views of each, without animadversion of any, each acting his part as might be reasonably expected in the circumstances of his position. There can be no doubt that slavery and the tariff were the chief disturbing ele- ments between the sections and what aggravated these became the chief factors of results. PLANS OF ADJUSTMENT. I do not think that even in the commencement of the war the aboli- tion of slavery was the controlling impulse of the sections or the sine qua non of any adjustment. Mr. Crittenden's remark, " Secession is emancipation by blood," looms up from this current of reflection. 16 Certainly those advocating it had no such contemplation or design. Those opposing it never required such abolition as indispensable pre- requisite. Certainly the plans of adjustment referred to in the hand- writing of Hon. Thomas Ewing, in January preceding the war, never combined such exaction. Mr. Lincoln in the formation of his Cab- inet, according to the public papers, was in conference with such as Hon. Alexander Stephens, certainly with no such condition. It was known to me otherwise that a Cabinet appointment was offered to my friend and associate in legislation and the code of laws, Robert E. Scott, Esq., and through Mr. Seward. The particular circumstances have only been more fully detailed to me within the last few months by his brother, Dr. and Professor Mar- tin P. Scott. Mr. Scott, though occupying the position as explained by me in the appendix to the speech I made in the memorial proceed- ings of Judges R. C. L. Moncure and Robert Ould, was as true as steel to the best interests of the South. As stated in that appendix, with a personal courage unknown to Julius Csesar he was a little sen- sitive to the taunt of timidity from the impatient and impetuous for the conflict, and also at the idea of any action seeming to affiliate with the enemies of the South. The proposal of such appointment was promptly rejected, I think, before or without consultation with his friends. Regarded as an olive branch and in satisfaction and protection of the South, I did not hesitate to advise and urge acceptance, but too late to retract his previous action. We may here indulge exalted wonderment what might have been results of such acceptance, only useful now for any similar emergency, as well as many other incidents I herein present. Here may be the only benefit of such retrospection, this being, I may say, about the first opportunity of such prevention. The preser- vation of his own valuable life and of hundreds of thousands may have been thus involved. As the war progressed the exciting causes and incidents gradually expired without intended agency or effort specially. Though differently regarded at the time, there can be no doubt that the Proclamation, as it was called, rendered slavery as a broken limb, its amputation most desirable to the body corporal and politic. Its preservation was not then worth the blood and treasure to retain it, and there never was a time afterward when the war could have been 17 terminated without such abolition, and my mind and conferences were influenced by such conclusions. When the famous Hampton Roads Conference occurred, the hopes of the peace-makers revived, only to be dashed into more hopeless annihilation, — this slavery element the most conspicuously destructive. In the conference with conspicuous luminaries on both sides, I myself inaugurated a second conference, sending to the house of a valued friend and connection, Edward O. Watkins, near City Point, as many as 27 different luxuries preparatory to such couference. A Federal officer told me he was present when they were opened, and the commo- tion occurring. As stated, slavery being then a broken limb seeking amputation, was not worth preservation, and thus no sufficient obstacle to any reasonable adjustment. There was but one new phase or variation to the Hampton Roads Conference. At that time if I could have collected together the right men from the different sections with some estimate ' of the money required to continue the war or saved by its termination, and this appropriated to compensation for such abolition, I am quite certain that while there were prominent men to oppose every thing, still this arrangement or presentation would have so paralyzed all opponents as to have accomplished important and desirable results. There never was a time perhaps, when either party could have dictated terms under vigorous exaction acceptable to the other. The South could only have proclaimed, " We have been disappointed in the assistance we relied on and might have added the resoluteness of the North. We are over- powered, our supplies exhausted, our widows and orphans disconsolate. We offer no terms, we ask none, we disband our legislatures and armies, we retire to our firesides and calmly await and abide the consequences." This I think was within General Meade's contemplation referred to, and in such contingency it is doubtful on which side a majority of the Federal army would have been found in protection. The non-fighting men most rampant for war, might have found the " argument " frightfully against them. I repeat these retrospects and reminiscences are only useful possibly as historical instances and con- comitants for future reference, and many of them presently useful in sweetening any acerbity of sectional asperities, and cicatrizing wounds which should only now represent the effective healing of time and cir- cumstances. 18 THE PRESENT DUTY OF ALL. All should gladly unite in making the best use of results and eon- sequences, now irrevocable and unalterable. The new-born citizens, as the former slave race may be termed, should have all the facilities and encouragement for good citizens, all the different avocations and occupations requiring different peculiarities and adaptations for each particular object not in competition and collision but united co-opera- tion. I could here relate some almost amusing instances of reluctance to accept this new position of freedom, preferring the confidence and pro- tection so long enjoyed and now desiring its resumption. The conduct of the negroes during these tragic times is beyond any historical or present commendation. Not a massacre occurred through them or special depredation. As described, my smoke-house was as sedulously guarded a week after the Federal army passed in triumph as on the antebellum occurrences. Such conduct is well worthy the highest consideration and commendation and substantial appreciation by all the conferments the circumstances allow. All could not well combine in one occupation. All could not well have the same tastes and predilections. As an old gentleman very sensibly remarked, he was very glad all did not think and feel as he did, for if so, too many would want his old woman. This one great disturbing element of slavery having passed away, we may now con- sider that other source of sectional hatred and conflict in the Tariff question referred to. None can claim exemption from circumstances and personal interests. I well recollect in early life a very specious and grandiloquent preacher, remarkable for his anathemas against slavery in the com- mencement of his avocation. He happened to marry a rich widow with a large number of slaves, and devoted the remnant of his life to the settlement of Mississippi plantations. Just so with the Tariff. It is neither remarkable nor unreasonable that each should be swayed by personal interest. I may well say I was born and educated in abhor- rence of the Tariff, well recollecting my homespun suit when a boy. In manifestation of such abhorrence, some I believe having been worn in the halls of Congress, by Southern members. This great agitation and convulsion was sometimes reckless and 19 senseless amongst those knowing nothing of what they so abhorred, as an old lady iu some remarkable eclipse or convulsion in the elements remarked she did not herself know what so frightened her in such apparition unless that abominable Tariff she had heard so much about had come. THE SOUTH AND THE TARIFF. Well, we may say, this dreaded monster has really come and at least partially gone. There is no doubt that the revival of manufac- tories in the South, has operated corresponding changes in the senti- ments of the South, certainly sufficient to paralyze that great conster- nation from the imagination of such raw heads and bloody bones. It is not necessary for those to be designated Tariff men per se, though advocating what might be termed Tariff recommendations. The whole matter may be succinctly stated. We have a Government to support, and, under the most economical administration, a costly Gov- ernment requiring immense revenues. How are they to be raised ? Certainly by duties or direct taxation. It is remarkable that many persons squandering thousands in some objectionable indulgence, are appalled at the visit of tax gatherers for dollars, though indispensable for the protection and benefits bestowed by the Government on the property thus taxed. If this necessity can be so used as at the same time to promote the manufactures essential to his own and his country's interests, who should complain ; and why should it longer continue as a disturbing element ? Then, these two sources of sectional hatred and discord removed, what remains to foment any effervescence of acerbity ? It seems certain that these factories and consequent railroad facilities have greatly enhanced the general prosperity of the South, as all are supported by the productions of the soil, similarly enhanced. It is true that the tillers of the soil seem uuder dragging and discouraging depression in some sections. But as all that glitters is not gold, so all that seems evil is not unmitigated. We have families to support. I once remarked in the presence of one of the most sagacious and successful residents in my section of Philadelphia, that I supposed the average expenses of its residents would be as high as ten thousand dollars per year. He scouted the amount as far too low. Now if a man can save house rent, fuel, use horses, etc., and break even, is 20 not this equivalent to a corresponding income of what he saves, the object being contentment in each locality and occupation, not exposed to the fluctuations and speculation so disastrous in other avocations. The circumstances of my position otherwise impress even more strongly and tenderly similar satisfaction in the different sections of the country. I would not feel entitled to the respect and toleration of opponents in politics, or even contending armies, to ignore the con- sideration of birth and association, though such circumstances and association may sometimes control every other consideration. The unwise and unmerited partiality of friends once induced earnest efforts to make me Governor of Virginia, somewhat by acclamation my pro- longed absence from the State unfavorable to regular contest and collision with those of more constant residence. I was met by band s of music on two occasions and had to make speeches, once from the platform of a car and again from regularly prepared stand, the circum- stances occurring to me in explanation of my presentation and procliv- ities for peace and union between the different States and condition of their citizens. I remarked that it was very true that I spent much of my time beyond the limits of the State, and it was no hardship either to spend a part of my time on Walnut Street, Philadelphia, with a nice lady, and that if any were disposed to sympathize or criti- cise, I could only wish that in heaping the choicest blessings upon them they were not almost but altogether as I was, not excepting these bonds. PERSONAL. As your first application referred perhaps, more particularly to the private or personal incidents of my life, I may be excused for indulg- ing a further comment of such reflections on the desirability of such bonds, that I once received from a special widower friend worthy of the highest appreciations and reciprocities of any kind, but in this case the unreasonable inquiry if I could do as well for him as I had done for myself in the way of a wife. I replied no, underscoring three times, not for you, nor any one else, that any reasonable man would be satisfied with an approximation. This comes in illustration of my desire for union before, during, and at all the times, having been enough of a politician and a canvasser to understand something about pairing off in voting, and I think 21 wisely concluded that pairing off in a fight especially with a nice lady was much of an improvement. It thus simply comes upon me to present all the considerations favorable to the best relations between the different sections and sexes, obliterating all the unpleasant past in the anticipation of the splendid future. The fiercest of wars or Presidential contests or all the unfav- orable elements and machinations combined insufficient to shake per- manently the solid foundations of individual and national prosperity and renown throughout the whole world, and with united councils and armies and favoring Providence bid defiance to the hostility of all creation. BEFORE THE TIME OF MR. BLAINE'S BOOK. To the Editor of Progress : In the commencement of my re- sponse I only contemplated some materials for a few pages of Prog- ress, and even after progress no more than already presented. The development of your purpose of Progress Supplements, and reference to Mr. Blaine's book, open a field too large for my occupation of it, and I shrink from any effort for a different side, or anything more than different situation or circumstances may suggest. It is natural that each should favor his special predilections and .associations. We both know as lawyers it is a principle in a writ of right that the length of possession is the most important ingredient of title, and having been thus young longer than Mr. Blaine, I might claim such juvenility, and revert to periods and persons antecedent to his "Twenty Years in Con- gress," and indeed prior to his own existence. I have a most vivid recollection of the great Virginia Convention in 1829, which I attended as a school-boy, as part of an education, with lasting impressions of its great orators and distinguished Presi- dents and statesmen. When a law student under Judge Lomax, of Fredericksburg, I attended the great debates in Washington under dis- cussion of the Bank question, having heard Messrs. Webster, Clay, Tazewell, and Benton, of the Senate, and Hon. George McDuffie, in the House of Representatives, all in the same day ; and about the same time Mr. Wirt on the Indian question in the Supreme Court in Washington ; also visiting Gen. Jackson as President with imposing incidents. It is melancholy to reflect that of all the giants of that gi- gantic convention not one remains on earth. " Sic transit gloria mundi." The last, Hon. Mark Alexander, the special friend of Hon. 22 John Randolph, only departed this life during the last year, full of age and honors, it having been my pleasure to send him a box of luxuries on the anniversary of his birth, having entertained him at my own fire- side and in associations to which I may subsequently refer. He made no pretense to what the world calls eloquence, but pre-eminent in plain, unpretending, modest excellence, purity, and probity, which neither fortune nor misfortune could subdue. Well might we exclaim: " Ultimus Ronianorum." The first great speech which I heard in that great convention was from Hon. Abel P. Upshur, of Northamp- ton county, Virginia, killed in the Princeton while a Cabinet officer. His first name might be more correctly spelt Able. It comes to me as a little remarkable that after so many years he should become a family connection as the first cousin of my wife's mother — Chaunceys, Up- shurs, Teackles, Dennis, etc., being all bound by the same blood ties. It is related as remarkable that he felt some timidity or apprehension on the firing on the Princeton, and asked the manager to put him in a safe place, which he attempted to do, but the result was he received two fragments of the bursting cannon, causing instant death. "Man proposes, but God disposes," with admonition for preparation for the worst that can befall human life. Mr. Upshur's was really a great speech, taking the eastern side of the tax question and representation, almost unanimous in the east, and causing the resignation of the elo- quent and distinguished Gen. Robert B. Taylor, of Norfolk, almost alone in his section ; succeeded by the talented Hugh Blair Grigsby, I believe the youngest member of that convention, and presage of his future ability and distinction. I think he and Mr. Alexander were the last two survivors of that remarkable body of statesmen. President Monroe was elected Speaker from his prestige as President of the United States, and to secure him the double salary in his declining years and limited prosperity. The brilliant Philip P. Barbour, who had been Speaker in Congress, was the great ruling spirit of the chair, as well as elsewhere. It comes upon me here to relate an anecdote in connection with Mr. Barbour, who, with his accomplished lady, boarded at the old Eagle Hotel, where I boarded also. She had a peculiar de- sire to see Governor Wm. B. Giles, one of the giants of his day, strong in intellect, but then weak in person, requiring crutches in locomotion. I well recollect an introduction to him by an uncle of mine while struggling on his crutches, and his name and fame familiar as natives 23 of adjoining counties, once the same, and thus similar acquaintances and associates. AMUSING MISTAKES. Such was Mrs. Barbour's impetuosity to see Governor Giles that in going to the Convention she exacted a particular discription in case no informant should be convenient. Notwithstanding Governor Giles's magnificent mental exhibitions, either from disease or otherwise his personal features were almost hideous. Mrs. Barbour was told that she could not mistake her man ; that the Governor would hobble in on crutches, and being the only one of such presentation she could not be mistaken, all of which of course was satisfactory and conclusive. Her informant was ignorant or oblivious of the fact that the handsome, brilliant, and genial John Y. Mason, dying, I believe, when Minister to France, had recently been thrown from his buggy and badly in- jured, and I believe never recovered from the effects. Though lame in gait, able otherwise, having been Judge of my county and welcomed at my fireside. Governor Giles happened not to attend that day, but Judge Mason did, and during the whole sitting commanded Mrs. Bar- bour's great admiration, enhanced by impressions of his greatness otherwise. On the adjournment of the Convention, in her ecstasy and exhilaration, she exclaimed that Governor Giles was the handsomest man she ever saw, to the amazement of those who had formed differ- ent conclusions. It became quite a joke in the general community, perhaps more to the edification of others than Mrs. Barbour. The face- tious, benignant, and polished Billy Pope, so long master of ceremonies at the White Sulphur, and a great friend of Mr. Barbour, heard of it as connected with a lady, but without hearing her name. He came to Mr. Barbour's quarters at the hotel, and in the presence of Mrs. Bar- bour related the whole occurrence, with many embellishments and animated annotations. On his conclusion Mr. Barbour, with his ac- customed polished gesticulation, remarked : " And that lady was Mrs. Barbour, at your side." The exuberance occasioned may be well im- agined. A little diversion may here be tolerated in connection with this same Billy Pope, who was also a particular friend of William Wirt. When Mr. Wirt was Attorney-General, or held some high office in Washington, he was visited by Mr. Pope. Though Mr. Pope was 24 polished in his manners and general deportment, personally he was somewhat careless or inattentive to his dress. Mr. Wirt desired to ex- tend to him the civilities due to their personal relations, and to take him to the President and the Presidential mansion, with its magnifi- cent mirrors extending to the floor. Mr. Pope's habiliments did not accord with such occasions, so Mr. Wirt dressed him up in one of his best suits, and on they went to the great White House and into the mirrored apartments. Mr. Pope was always very polished and polite in his demonstrations, but thought it important to be particularly so on this occasion, and, in his own language thought it would not be amiss to have the one best bow, should he meet some of the distinguished personages. Passing by one of these large mirrors he thought he came in contact with one of that description, and concluded to make him one of his most polite bows. He said, being returned in similar significance, he concluded to try it again with similar reciprocity, and so continued till, in his own language, he " found it was Billy Pope, but the devil a bit did he know him." But, returning to the Convention. My own district of Nottoway, etc., should command my first attention. It was facetiously remarked that nothwithstanding the brilliant intellects it was physically, at least, the lamest representation in the whole convention. Governor Giles's lame- ness has been described. Then came the great and eloquent Benjamin Watkins Leigh, undoubtedly the master spirit of that convention in activity of attention and debate. He was like Mr. Mason, handsome, but limping from a similar accident; and also Hon. John Winston Jones, Speaker in Congress, and one of the most interesting debaters in his whole region, practicing in my own county, and of great practical ability in all he undertook, but perhaps more limping in gait than Mr. Leigh. The remaining representative was Hon. Samuel Taylor, of physical and mental power, but lame or stammering in delivery. His hesitation, however, seemed a consideration where to make his next step, and he always made it in the right place, like my beau-ideal of intellectual power, Robert E. Scott, as I once remarked to him, with similar apparent hesitation and similar result. While thus really lame no district in the State was more ably represented, such as Hon. Wm. S. Archer having been left out in the canvass or election, who was so long in Congress and the Senate, remarkable for bravery and inde- 25 pendence, well recollecting his remark in one of his speeches, thai he had few opinions, and all unpopular. I suppose there is somewhere a full account of this convention, but I have not seen it, and am writing from personal recollection. The pow- erful Chapman Johnson was also a member who had attained great eminence, but though reluctantly accepting for awhile some political position, was devoted to his practice. Engaging in some speculation or improvements early in life he became embarrassed in his circum- stances, and when urged to accept political positions, nobly and hon- estly replied he regarded his time and his talents as mortgaged to his creditors, realizing the fortune of misfortune, and not misfortune of a fortune, paralyzing intellectual and professional aspirations and success. Mr. Johnson spoke four days on one question. The brilliant, inimita- ble, and sarcastic John Randolph replied, referring to what Mr John- son had said " yesterday, the day before, or the day before that," in his peculiar style of oratory and invective. Presidents Madison and Mon- roe were only monuments of past greatness, rarely engaging in debate, seeming like the old Puritans prior to any adulteration. The value of such deliberative conventions and assemblages does not depend solely on the brilliant orators, frequently bearing off in triumph the honors and distinctions of the occasion. I was impressed by the sound, sensible, practical, useful, axle-tree materials of such as Hon. Elisha Boyd, then of Berkeley county, Vir- ginia, now West Virginia, the father-in-law of my old legislative friend and associate, Hon. Charles J. Foulkner, of forty years in Con- gress, and other and higher diplomatic and legislative experiences, em- bracing some of the " Twenty Years in Congress " I would like to hear from ; and thus Mr. Boyd, the grandfather of E. Boyd Faulk- ner, Esq., the prominent and promising favorite for Gubernatorial honors, and thus qualified by tuition and mtuition. Such also as Hon. Thomas R. Joynes, the life-long, efficient Clerk of Accomac county, of more actual importance in clerical and corresponding researches and compilations than a score of mere orators and declaimers, though not securing the merited prominence and pre-eminence. It is really doubtful whether such a glittering array of great men ever assembled in one great convocation. Much depends upon the times and occurrences to develop innate greatness. 26 " Full manj a flower is born to blush unseen, And waste its fragrance on the desert air." There was little in any of the questions agitated in that Convention to excite great oratory or exertion. The dull monotony of making laws or constitutions is frequently very wearisome ; and if examina- tion of books, etc., develops anything more interesting, it can be in- terpolated hereafter, only designing to record what I have seen and heard for any stimulation and information of successors. When a law student in Fredericksburg, as intimated, I had an opportunity of hear- ing the great orators in Congress, having referred to the great men, Hon. Webster, Clay, Tazewell and Benton in that debate in the Sen- ate, and McDuffie in the House Representatives. It would be super- erogation now to attempt anything new, or even cumulative, about these great men. Mr. Webster and Mr. Clay, whom I heard else- where, as well as Mr. Calhoun, had, perhaps, attained greater eminence and celebrity in the popular estimation. I, however, retain the strong impression made by Mr. Tazewell, that for acilteness of argument and readiness and ability, especially in interruptions and interrogations, he had no superior. I heard Mr. Webster's great speech under the " Oc- tober sun" in Richmond, Virginia, and the committee framing the code of the State, while I was present, had a personal call or visit from him. There was no room for any higher appreciation, this hav- ing been after the great debate with Mr. Hayne, in which the second best attained unrivalled distinction. It is said Mr. Webster's wife heard Mr. Hayne, and doubtfully and despondingly inquired of him if he could reply to his speech ; that Mr. Webster pulled out his snuff-box, or made the comparison, remarking he would grind him as fine as the snuff in that box. Each was great in sustaining his own peculiar views and position, and the greatness developed and discernible from the circumstances of their peculiar position, as occurs in all sim- ilar positions. MR. CLAY AT A DINNER PARTY. The time alluded to of hearing Mr. Clay was at a dinner party given to him and Governor Tyler in Petersburg, Virginia, having the benefit of a seat nearly opposite to both of them. Mr. Clay was very animated and eloquent in defence of his Tariff policy, though in an anti-tariff community. He, however, did seem impressive and 27 satisfactory even in that section as to raising the necessary revenue to support the Government, and in so doing rt lending a helping hand to the infant manufactures of our own country." No one in that crowd even made unfavorable criticism. Governor Tyler succeeded him, standing immediately on his left, and was hard to beat on such occa- sions, or indeed, any other ; never, that I ever heard of, failing in any election before the people. On that same subject, or some other, Mr. Clay had been much abused. Mr. Tyler had concurred with him fully, and still not so abused, and seeming almost to complain at such exemption. But, with smiling emphasis and animated gesticulation and elevated voice, vociferated : " What skilled huntsman does not know that it is the noblest stag in the forest that is the chief object of pursuit," and brought the whole crowd in his commendation by this inimitable illustration. Judge Joynes, a son-in-law of of Judge May, related to me a grandiloquent colloquy between Mr. Clay and Major General Winfield Scott, occurring in General Scott's room, in presence of General Thomas H. Bayley, of Virginia. He said while General Scott was thus engaged, Mr. Clay entered on a social visit. General Scott arose, with his usual animation and magnificence, exclaiming : " Mr Clay I am sorry to see you ; I am very sorry to see you : the first call was due from me to you as author of the great Compromise Measures, and I was about to make it, but General Bayley, the son-in- law of my old friend, Judge May, being with me, I could not leave and thus sorry to see you." " No," replied Mr. Clay, with correspond- ing grandiloquence, " the first call was due from me to the greatest Captain of the age," occurring soon after General Scott's return from Mexico. It is said however, that subsequently some alienation oc- curred between them, showing the uncertainty of human friendships. I do not know that I quote with exactness, having no time for exami- nation, but believe the sentiment is, that " Favor is deceitful and beau- ty is vain, but the woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised." No other foundation can uphold permanently and securely the most exalted, consecrated friendship. I heard Mr. Calhoun once in Peters- burg on special invitation while returning from Congress. He made no pretensions to impassioned oratory, but acute and logical in all his reasoning adapted to his own views. His great hobby on pronounced principles was anti-tariff, congenial to his section — South Carolina then, with all cotton and no manufactures comparatively, had all one 28 way — the cry on revenues being all against the General Govern- ment. How long this will continue depends much upon how loug the absence of these manufactures will continue. There is no illusion nor hallucination in the supposition that the South may become an exporter of manufactured fabrics, having the water power in many places ; coal as convenient as any. The raw material at hand, cheaper labor, ex- emption from ice and strikes less frequent or unknown, who can say all these advantages can be overcome. At all events, the old lady who having heard so much about the abominable tariff without know- ing what it was but as some unknown monstrosity, is not likely, on some convulsion of the earth or elements, to regard it as the advent of the Tariff. Mr. Calhoun was more calm and self-possessed, but not so eloquent and interesting as Mr. McDufjfie. It is said that Mr. Mc- Duffie's desk exhibited the force of his gesticulation. I well recollect the animation, or even violence, of his enthusiasm, and very few ever attained his elevation and appreciation amongst those with best oppor- tunity of judging. THE PRESTONS AND OTHERS. It is perhaps not in good taste to excite the blushing sensibilities of the living by even just and merited reference to their abilities, but with such as I have named amongst the departed ; to which may be added Hon. William C. Preston, and, indeed, all the Prestons. South Coro- olina has no reason to fear comparison with any State in the Union. I never heard Hon. William C. Preston speak. I have been inti- mately associated with him when with his relations, in Montgomery, and have traveled with him when passing to Washington, and if his oratorical powers were equal to his conversational, they were great, indeed. Wholly different from Mr. Calhoun, there really having been little congeniality or assimilation between them ; each great in his own sphere. I was in Richmond when General John S. Preston made his fine speech during the first part of the war, when the desire to hear him was so great as to preclude all access or comfort. I recollect to have amused him much by describing the rampant enthusiasm of one seem- ingly devoted admirer, charging almost over the heads of those before him, not abating by repulsion. It was difficult to fathom the great interest he evinced. The conclusion was reasonable that he was un- 29 willing to miss a single word. Exciting the curiosity of some one to inquiring as to the special cause of his impetuosity, he replied "I only wanted to see Preston's pretty daughter/' seated near him. Mr. Pres- ton complimenting his good taste and preference. Academical and collegiate education in North Carolina gave me op- portunity of at least hearing of the fame of her great men. When quite a boy, William Gaston and John Stanly seemed the most brilliant lights of that day, especially in the political world, very different, but each great in his own sphere, and potent at the Bar. Later, Judge Badger, Judge Thomas Ruffin, and others. Judge Ruffin was too use- ful and learned on the bench to be spared from it. I did once hear him make a political speech on the court-house steps of Oxford, North Carolina, in behalf of William H. Crawford, of Georgia, for Presi- dent. I well recollect, when rising to his highest animation, his ex- pression, "Now, gentlemen of the jury." He would correct himself, " You see, gentlemen, I am not in the habit of making political speeches." He would proceed under his own correction but a very short time before his own familiar appellation at the Bar would again be repeated. Judge Mangum attended the same Bar, and many shin- ing lights, well recollecting his defence of a criminal and peculiar ex- pressions. Judge Badger was eminent in those days, son-in-law of Colonel Wm. Polk, father of Bishop Polk, who preceded me at Chapel Hill and associated first part of the war, and having graduated at West Point, did not feel at liberty to decline his services. Col. Wm. Polk, of Raleigh, N. C, the father of Bishop Polk, and father-in- law of Judge Badger and Hon. Kenneth Raynor, was one of the most prominent citizens of the State. He was also the relative of my then college mates Marshal T. and Ezekiel Polk, and of President James K. Polk, who was tendered a reception by the Virginia Legis- lature, with his Secretary, Robert J. Walker, making appropriate speeches near the seat I occupied as a member. It was at the private mansion of Col. Wm. Polk at which the great reception was given to General Lafayette. The college students were arranged in two paral- lel rows, General Lafayette passing between and shaking the hands of each, embracing that now tracing these lines. These pilgrimages and orations would furnish materials for a volume. I have a map of the Yorktown region, with his twin likeness of Gen. Lafayette, with Gen. Washington, and Gen. Lincoln, of Gen. Light- 30 horse Harry Lee, and all the French officers and encampments, with locality of surrender, prepared for the last Centennial celebration at Yorktown, and thus embracing the photographs of the great orators and poets, Winthrop, Hope, and Hayne — and many other illustrations. It may perhaps be inserted in some of the succeeding numbers. But returning to North Carolina, and my alma mater, Chapel Hill. Bishop Polk was the classmate of my brother, and I thus enjoyed conversa- tional reminiscences with him when he came to Richmond to receive his commission as a General in the Confederate army. He was also the classmate of Judge Richmond Pierson and Judge Mat. E. Manly, who was my college tutor, attaining great eminence, marrying the daughter of the great orator, Wm. Gaston. He was also the classmate of Gov. Wm. A. Graham, who was, I believe, twice Governor of North Carolina, and rose to too many high positions for enumeration. I well recollect while at Chapel Hill to have visited Hillsboro during one of the courts, and to have seen him passing to his office as a young law- yer, followed by a number of clients. A gentleman in my hearing re- marked : " That man is going to succeed." How prophetic and how true ! It was a great pleasure to entertain him and Judge Manly at my table in Philadelphia during their attendance of some great politi- cal occasion since the war, when Gov. Orr, of South Carolina, and General Couch, of Boston, walked in arm in arm as ambassadors of peace. What a contrast to have viewed Gov. Graham's corpse at Sar- toga subsequently, while still engaged in some good work ; his expres- sive photograph is now before me, which I have carried for years. This galaxy might be continued, but am only following the current of my reminiscences as they occur, thus referring to the living in the same town about my only remaining college mate and dear friend, Paul C. Cameron, son of Judge Cameron, and son-in-law of Judge Ruffin, pre- viously alluded to, two noble Judges — " par nobile fratrum " — the world and clerical profession adorned by such saintly luminaries and college-mates as William Norwood and Rev. James Hall. A whole volume would be insufficient to delineate such celebrities ot the past and of the present, furnishing Governors, Senators, foreign Ministers, etc., appropriate allusions perhaps exciting blushing sensi- bilities. I must, at least for awhile, in returning to the allusions to Wash- ington City, in connection with William Wirt, General Jackson, etc.,* 31 tarry awhile in my own native State, so prolific of statesmen in earlier and later periods. The " Proceedings in Memoriam of Judges Moncure and Ould," referred to, exhibit luminaries of the present, and if I act on your suggestions and references to Mr. Blaine's book, chiefly from locality and circumstances confined to the North, and anything like a book be undertaken by me, these memorials might be incorporated, superseding present elaboration. VIRGINIA STATESMEN. No faithful enumeration of Virginia statesmen or orators could be complete without allusion to Hon. Wm. C. Rives, distinguished in so many honorable positions. He was the only man I ever heard who could keep a crowd four hours on their feet, which I witnessed on two occasions at the court-houses of Nottoway and Brunswick counties, when he was so excited about occurrences in connection with Mr. Van Buren's administration I believe, under necessity of explaining the pro- priety of some change of sentiment, as some thought losing him the Presidency, and thus against his own private interests and promotion. An oocurrence transpired which might excite my incredulity if related by another, and I should not complain of such incredulity even as to my own statement. He was in very animated presentation and antici- pation of the downfall of Mr. Van Buren's administration, when an old house, or part of it, did really fall within his hearing, causiug him to remark, " Just like that old house." I have heard of the expression, "bringing down the house," but never before witnessed the illustration. How different when I last saw him at Newport, with voice too feeble for extended articulation, under the preferable government of a faithful and affectionate wife, protecting him against too much exertion. I think his son had heard of that tumbling house before his death, and has certainly alluded to it in conversation with me since that melan- choly occurrence. It is doubtful whether any man ever lived or died with more elo- quent and popular sway over the minds of men than Gov. Henry A. Wise. It was a saying that by some change of position or party he had on record ever voted in the district, on both sides, in his favor, and he was never beaten, as I am aware of, in any popular election. His personal courage was undaunted, and when he went into the Con- 32 gressional canvass with Hill Carter, of corresponding firmness and impetuosity, many predicted the most exciting and deadly conflicts. But the result established that brave men know how to act towards each other, scouting all mere child's play or pretension. The result, I believe, was that they emerged from that fiery contest with more exalted mutual appreciation. Game cocks never encroach on each other's dominions. The consequences are too serious. Many are now alive no doubt who were in that large convention in the Hall of Dele- gates (I rather think it was during that same Van Buren administra- tion), when some one vociferated or called out for a " voice from Accomac." Mr. Wise arose and commenced : " A voice from Accomac is called. I wish I had a voice strong enough to blow the measure [he was opposing] into merited insignificance," etc. His peculiar pro- vince was otherwise, but I have heard him exhibit ability in agricul- tural fair grounds. While Governor he met me at Burkeville on a visit to my Mountain Lake (or salt pond) summer residence. He came from the Richmond cars somewhat bowed down and feeble, with the remark that he was sick and had not slept well, and would not have come but for promise, but sustained the journey first to the hospitable residence of Hon. Wm. Ballard Preston, a host in more than one sense, resting there awhile with desired recuperation. Mr. Preston fixed up his family carriage and sent for Judge Staples's fine pair of black horses and buggy, and with Gen. Preston's fine saddle horses we started for the Salt Pond, as it was more familiarly styled, with quite imposing equipages. While ascending the mountain we came to a clear, running brook, and stopped to enjoy a fine lunch Mrs. Preston had kindly put up for us. I well recollect Gov. Wise's remark it was the first appetite he had felt for some time. We continued by the lake to my place, remaining several days. It was something of a wilderness, abounding in trout and all kinds of mountain game. I well recollect his mount- ing a stump with proclamation : "Woodcock, trout, pheasant, and part- ridge, all in two hundred yards," perhaps waving hat, and correspond- ing exclamation. He seemed to be perfectly restored, and returned to buy land in that region, somewhat complaining I had resisted his overtures when on a friendly visit, perferring to make him a present of some. He was thus social with friends. Enemies did not come near enough to risk contrarieties. Many other incidents and presen- 33 tations might be described, but I hasten to other references to Wash- ington City. THE SALT POND. I may appropriately here first describe this, perhaps about the only curiosity of the kind in the world in extent and altitude, generally called " Salt Pond," not that the water is salt, being clear spring water : but it was the pond where the graziers salted their cattle from the sur- rounding ranges, being on an elevation of 5,300 feet. Many enthusi- astic descriptions have been written of it, the most graphic perhaps by Wm. Irby, of Nottoway county, himself the emblem and personifica- tion of the devout Christian, and all that is pure and good, and who bought largely in that section. He wrote : " The devout Christian here finds a fit emblem of what he should be. Here it is, in the world, but above it ; supported and surrounded by the everlasting mountains, and, though lashed by the fiercest storms of this world, its bosom casts up no mire, no dirt — nothing that is unholy or unclean." It is described as a mile by a third of a mile, that a silver dollar can be seen fifty feet below the surface. The water once seeped out below the present outlet, as trees may be seen now standing at considerable distance beneath the present surface. The view from the knob above is grand beyond description, comprising five States — North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky. The new river valley exhibits the fine lands of Pulaski and Montgomery — the peaks of Otter and Pilot mountains in North Carolina. The White Moun- tains bear no comparison, being only a huge pile of rocks. I heard a gentleman say : " I have been on Mount Blanc, but there is nothing there like this," nor anywhere, I suppose, such extent of water so high. This is the property I traded to Gen. H. Haupt, with large buildings around it, and now, I believe, occupied by some of his family, with fine accommodations. Major Kent told me the lake had been fathomed 300 feet without touching bottom. I referred to Mr. Wirt in discussion of the Indian question. In addition to being a great orator and lawyer he was also a great philan- thropist. His sympathies were enlisted in behalf of the Indians. It was in some case before the Supreme Court, Judge Marshall presiding. It was a striking impression that at the close of some of his lofty flights of eloquence he would turn entirely around, resuming his former posi- 34 tion. Judge Marshall seemed similarly excited or interested. All know the pathos and enthusiasm Mr. Wirt could impart to any sub- ject in which he was interested, to which many ascribe his exaltation and celebrity conferred on the blind preacher. " Socrates died as a philosopher, but Jesus Christ as a God." Mr. Wirt's own Christian attainments assisting babes in Christ over those more highly imbued with the right spirit than men. Indeed learned metaphysciana, requiring all to be brought to their own com- prehension for credulity, are the last to adopt the simple doctrine of faith represented, etc. " By faith are ye saved," and if all is knowl- edge, where is the faith or salvation? The foolish can sometimes confound the wise. I can also relate occurrences similar to Mr Wirt's. While once in my lonely mountain forest on Sabbath, I heard of an appointment for preaching at a neighboring log cabin, I attended, but the minister did not. The occasion was converted into something of a good old Methodist prayer meeting, the members giving in their experiences. An old gentleman bent under the weight of years by the name of Muncy arose in the exercise. He was the veritable uncle of the great shining light of that name dying in Baltimore, too young for the maturity of his fame and spiritual power. He began, to use his own language, about his "encfeevors to sarve God, the He and the wine, the sons and darters of Zion," and the blind preacher and Mr. Wirt to help him could not have delivered a more suitable and effective address to the audience, I have heard colored servants in their dying moments more expres- sive and impressive than the learned. I well recollect one dying in triumph use the really learned expression, " The way to die a Christian death is to live a Christian life." This is worth more than all the sophistries and speculations which worldly wisdom can suggest or adopt. But I did not design more than appropriate corresponding illustrations. PEESIDENT JACKSON. Returning again to Washington City, I must finish my visit to General or President Jackson in the Presidential mansion. I was carried there by my good friend Hon. Mark Alexander, then repre- senting my native region, to whom I have so feelingly alluded as one of my best friends at my fireside and elsewhere. All have heard of 35 General Jackson's impulsive manner before he became a church mem- ber, frequently using a favorite expression, " By the Eternal, etc," and here would be materials for another book, but am only gliding into actual personal incidents and occurrences. During the usual conver- sation Hon. James M. Mason, of so many elevated positions, came in and enlivened the conversation, during which General Jackson in- quired, " Mr. Mason, how many children have you ?" He replied, " Too many, General, too many." General Jackson replied, " Can't be too many, if they inherit the merit of the father." But it was said with such evident earnestness and grace of manner as to exhibit no coarseness, and exciting no blushing sensibilities, there being too much truth in the remark for any doubtful interpretation. Although such biog- raphies and delineations are generally confined to politicians, statesmen and warriors of the land, they would be incomplete with entire omission of the ministers of the Gospel. But here comes such a dazzling array as to defy separation and discrimination. It would be something like the milky way, rather a conglomeration of shining lights |than any special coruscation. I have not intended to transcend the confines of my own observation which is too extensive for full enumeration, I will confine myself to a classification of those associated with revivals of widespread notoriety and usefulness. First and foremost in my own association looms up, loftily the Rev. Dr. Theodorick Pry or, (the father of General Roger A Pryor), whose biography is extended in the recent number of the Presbyterian Encyclopaedia, who was Moderator in the Lexington Assembly, and thus preached the opening sermon in the last General Assembly, in Vicksburg, and of great power of body; mind and Holy Spirit, and well suited" for revival occasions GREAT REVIVALS. % The revival to which I especially refer certainly included the 30th of August. 1838, and many months or weeks preceding and succeed- ing the 30th of August, 1838. It embraced nearly every prominent politician and citizen in the whole country. There was a famous race- track in that country where the veterans of the turf delighted to con- gregate and test the speed of the famous Virginia race-horses of high- est blood every Spring or Fall. When the races eame on that Fall, the President and both Vice-Presidents of the Jockey Club were mem- bers of the Presbyterian Church. The proprietor failed. The whole 36 place was sold, and bought by a member of the Presbyterian Church. There was one most remarkable coincident of that remarkable revival, that not one was ever known to abandon the faith and profession he then assumed. I stood by the bedside of one who first announced ap- proaching dissolution in the exclamation, " This is death, glory, glory, so happy, so happy." Skeptics may live skeptics, and boast of their skepticism, but could not on such exhibition withhold the supplication, " Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his." But, in the language of that illiterate dying colored servant al- luded to, " The way to die a Christian death is to live a Christian life." How can such blissful consummation be attained without the use of the means enforced. The great Spurgeon well remarks : " You will generally find that unbelievers do not read the Bible, and do not read the Gospel, and how can they believe in Him of Whom they have not heard. If they will not consider the Gospel candidly how can they expect to believe it." The other animated revival was under the ministration and direction of Rev. Dr. Hoyt, of Georgia, father of the present successor of the sainted, glorious old John Chambers, ot Chambers's Presbyterian Church, and so acceptable and satisfactory to its members. And a minister might be first-rate and still not a satis- factory successor to such a great man as Dr. Chambers ; and great because he was good. That Father in Israel, as well as otherwise, Dr. Hoyt conducting that revival was the only man I ever heard use the declaration that he had been so filled with the Holy Spirit that he had prayed to the Lord to stay his hand. His exuberance really in- terfered with complacent exhortations. It is not at all remarkable that any of his descendants should be imbued and animated by the same Holy Spirit. But I am, perhaps, departing from the strict line of pre- sentation and discussion interesting and desirable to others, except that since some divergence from such line I have understood from you that your intention was to embrace any topics or occurrences connected with my own life and observation and experience. And how could such brilliant and beautiful consummations be suppressed and overlooked in such enunciation, and being requested to write for North and South, it may be important to minister to different tastes as well as different climes. But returning North, perhaps the most interesting and mag- nificent public exhibition, with the grandest concomitants, and grand success, under such consummate generalship of Generals Hawley and 37 Goshorn and their efficient coadjutors, in the most brilliant achieve- ments of the age, in the great Centennial of 1876, at the Philadelphia Fair Grounds. Of course, the " Old Virginia " building I erected for the State and friends from all sections, was for me the objective, sub- jective and attractive object, from associations and incidents still fresh in unfading memory. I must here relate something of a joke with my friend Goshorn, general manager. When I applied for the par- ticular location he consented very readily, but with some disparaging remark that it was of little account anyway, being somewhat distant from the general State row, which, in the chilly winds of Winter and Spring, presented genial, comforting sunshine. AT THE CENTENNIAL. I was, however, building for August, amongst the magnificent talip poplars, almost solid shade, as I may show from photograph. When the hot weather came few could stand that scorching sunshine, while the surging crowd thronged around Old Virginia ; one register out of six containing fifteen thousand signatures, and I suppose not one in a hundred registering. There was one magnificent tree, measuring ten feet in circumference ten feet from the ground, I had named the Corcoran tree, because it was dispensing such comforts and blessings to suffering humanity in the oppressive weather, Mr. Corcoran him- self an honoring guest. I told him it was then the poplar tree, but put the u (you) in it would make it the pop-u-lar tree. I hope to annex his photograph. So many were associated with these incidents and occurrences as to supersede special reference. Perhaps about the most interesting was the assemblage of General Smith's Lexington Cadets in front for special reception and salutation, Hon. Samuel J. Randall being selected orator. As proprietor of the building it was regarded my province and pleasure to introduce him, being in locality a North- ern man for Southern subjects generally. I remarked, in affect, that as long as the General Government under the^a^s then waving over it (old Virginia also proudly waving with the United States) extended to all citizens equal rights, equal privileges, equal protection, palsied be the hand that should be uplifted to tear away a single stripe or dim the lustre of a single star. That they should stand up to the bare pole when the colors it supported had been tattered into fragments. That they should never surrender, unless to the darts and glances so for- 38 midable on the present occasion. The sentiments were responded to in animated vociferation and action. Mr. Randall performed well his part, as usual on all occasions, followed by Senator Withers and others, all in harmony and, indeed, exultation. This reception was somewhat impromptu and without full notice, though collecting a crowd embellished by brilliant ladies, and all long to be remembered and appreciated. The special preparation was re- served for the parting salutation. Gen. Fitz Lee was the orator, wielding efficiently the sword and the pen, as well as the tongue. I think this appointment was for 2 p. M. I understood, however, General Smith received a telegram inviting his whole corps to supper at a hotel in Baltimore, desiring him to name the time. His reply was : " Sup- per for seven," of course meaning 7 o'clock. The generous hotel- keeper, however, construed it as supper for seven persons, and said he was always prepared for that number, and made no special prepara- tions. To fulfil that appointment it was necessary to be at the Vir- ginia building at 1 o'clock, one hour before the appointment. It was by accident I was present to make the explanation, and thus a most enjoyable occasion frustrated, and so the cadets missed the speeches and their supper ; but I think will be full well warned and full armed on any such subsequent arrangements. Gen. Lee as usual, in peace and war, was on time and fully equipped for his duty. His disappointment was even greater than the cadets, informing me he had a particular desire and preparation for the occasion. I hope I may still obtain the intended address on a similar one, perhaps that on Chancellorsville, so commended whenever delivered. I made but one complaint at that grand Centennial exhibition, that after paying the duties on a ship- load of Burgundy, and getting all I wanted, and hauling it out to the grounds, I had to haul some back, and there may be still a chance to remove some of this only complaint. The Centennial celebration of the Surrender at Yorktown, when Mr. Winthrop, of Boston, delivered the great address, with Southern poets, was in corresponding signifi- cance to the occasion graced by President Arthur, Mr. Blaine, Mr. Lincoln, and others, and hope to annex a map, with illustrations of the monument in preparation, and the locality of different occurrences, es- pecially the precise spot of the surrender, not where generally supposed, history unmistakably explaining its accurate designation, it being un- fortunate that such a monument will be erected where so few will so 39 it. But it is not uncommon for the greatest battles to be fought in the most obscure localities, but not the less potent in the results, it being most devoutly desired that obscurity will effectually conceal all such conflicts, and that peace and plenty will reign supremely through every land and country. JAMES' RIVER MANSIONS. I was once with General Harrison at the Virginia Springs. One of my particular friends and neighbors, Dr. Henry E. Shore, had a brother under his command, and I was interested in the conversation between them in such connection. He was cordial in his manners, and sufficiently communicative, recollecting some anecdote about a tar cap, and an old man marrying a young girl, but not all the particu- lars. He too found the cares of the Presidency too heavy, and ex- hausting, Governor Tyler lucky as his successor and otherwise, the likeness of Mrs. Tyler, as a bride, adorning the extensive walls of Carter's Grove. I have referred to Gov. Tyler in different positions, with Mr. Clay, acting well his part. I have been familiar with General Harrison's birthplace, Berkeley, on James River, adjoining Westover, now owned by friend Drewy, for many years visiting it not very long ago, being one of the magnificent James River estates. General Harrison's removal to Ohio seemed to have separated him from his Virginia friends, some of his relatives not supporting him for the Presidency. I have also been near his famous battle field, Tippecanoe. I have known no family in the world of more elevation and refinement than the Harrison fam- ily and connections, embracing Carters, Lees, Braxtons, Bradfute, Page, Wickham. The names of Carter Harrison, Carter Lee, Carter Brax- ton, Carter Bradfute, Williams Carter, Williams Carter Wickham, Carter Page, Carter Burwell, etc., being of elevated familiar signifi- cance ; Harrison first and last in similar recurrence. Paulding, in his letters from the South, gives graphic description, more particularly of the hospitality dispensed at these old James River mansions, many erected long before the Revolution. I recollect one illustration that visitors had been made so welcome, and so much at home as to complain of the long visits of those arriving after them- selves. The grandiloquent John Hare Powel was a visitor there, 40 especially at Westover, then the seat of the Byrds. I was once riding oyer his stock farm in West Philadelphia, desiring to purchase some for the South. His grand appearance is vivid in my recollection to this day, as he sat upon his horse, head turned up hill, and in his portly manner remarked : " The bacon hams, the blood horses and men of Virginia are the best in the world, but the dray horses and the cows are the meanest." Mentioning the circumstance to Mr. Wm. F" Wickham, father of General Wickham, he suggested a correction or variation, that it was the women he thought so captivating, that when he first knew him he was courting Miss Byrd of Westover, and with his fine appearance and fortune, a formidable rival, but I believe she preferred and married a Harrison. I now own the Carter Grove farm below all these places, and per- haps the largest in the State ; hall in the centre, 27 feet wide, and all of English materials. Gov. (King) Carter has a clause in his will fur- nished me by a connection, Dr. Randolph, of Clarke county, stating : " It is my will that in all times to come this place shall be called and go by the name of Carter's Grove." His grandson, Carter Burwell, inheriting it, and dying long before the Revolution, no Carter has ever since occupied it, but the name is restored in obedience to such re- quest. If any extensive publication, I hope the photographs of most of these grand old places can be annexed ; also exhibiting the different battle fields around Richmond and Petersburg, Malvern Hill, Bethel, Dutch Gap, and now converted into usefulness by curtailing the distance of James River travel a number of miles, with the sword converted into a ploughshare, and the spear into a pruning hook. ( Peace hath her victories as well as war." GENERAL TAYLOR. I was with General Taylor when an Indian fighter in the South. I asked him his opinion of Indian bravery, or whether they possessed such an attribute. Pie replied they were brave according to their idea of bravery, which was to do the most harm to others while sus- taining the least for themselves ; that they would make a brave attack, and immediately run and conceal themselves in some place of safety. I also saw him when President on his visit to Richmond at the un- veiling of the Washington Monument, and when Governor Floyd 41 made an appropriate address. He, I suppose, was no speaker in usual acceptation. He did make a few remarks from the monument, recol- lecting a remark that in returning to his native State he felt like a child returning to its mother. The cares of the Presidency were too much for him, dying soon, and succeeded by Mr. Fillmore, who enter- tained me very cordially and politely in his own house, and was very accomplished in his manners, and I suppose of as much elevated pnrity and propriety as usually attainable in any position in life. Mr. Blaine has fully elaborated all the administrations, and many have opened the way for similar criticisms, animadversion, or admiration. It is not always safe to elicit the opinions of adversaries. Without any particu- lar application, I am reminded of a stump speaker once indiscreet enough to ask the opinion of an opponent upon the speech he had de- livered. His reply was : " I think you and I can outaverage any two men in the country lying, and I not say a word." I doubt whether any two persons of such eminence and excellence lived or died with such diversity of exalted qualities and acquisitions as Mr. Calhoun and his colleague, Hon. Wm. C. Preston. I had some correspondence with Mr. Calhoun, and heard him speak, but little or no conversation. I am impressed that he was of a taciturn, uncom- municative, undemonstrative disposition, unless specially aroused by some incident. From repeated opportunities at the houses of his Montgomery relatives and elsewhere, I was favored with evidence that Mr. Preston was totally different. I was with him when a crutch was neces- sary to uphold his body, when the buoyancy of his mind seemed to need some weight of pressure to develop its full strength. There was something magical in the twinkle of his eye, and even utterance and manifestation. He could spin out words such as m-is-er-a-ble to give them ten times usual force. I was once traveling with him when on his way to Washington, and when an accident or obstacle on the railroad delayed us considerably at Weldon, I think, at the same hotel. He had been engaged in the great Presbyterian Old and New School case. The great Dr. Plumer, then pastor in Richmond, and Dr. Hill, of Winchester, opposing champions with some bitterness of->eeling and manifestations. Dr. Hill was with us during that delay, and very pleasant and com- municative in conversational entertainment. Dr. Hill in general con- 42 versation inquired of Mr. Preston as to the personal relations between him and Mr. Calhoun. His reply was : " We touch hands." Dr. Hill undertook to administer a little friendly rebuke that brethren (or colleagues) should dwell together in unity, etc. Mr. Preston could not contest such presentations, and at the time made little or no reply. In further conversation, Dr. Hill happened casually to remark that he expected to stop a while in Richmond. Mr. Preston, with his inimit- able twinkle, simply remarked : " I suppose you will stay with Brother Plumer." Dr. Hill, with some apparent confusion, quickly replied : " I don't expect to be invited." But a full sermon on brotherly love could not have been more effective in the admonition that in administering any rebuke or criticism, we should be mindful of our own exposure. Your first solicitation for some contribution for your interesting paper, presenting no specifications or suggestions, I have thus yielded to the current of my own reflections and impulses, and thus somewhat diffuse and irregular, my object being the gratification of any interest or curiosity, and the accomplishment of any good. The incidents of that blockade running, assistance to prisoners, etc., indicate and confirm the peculiar advantages of an open, bold manifestation in every department of life. Had I indulged any skulking, dodging or equivocation, I might have been arrested a dozen times, but by the course pursued have not to this day encoun- tered an unpleasant incident and apprehensive of none, and thus some value in such presentations. Your references to Mr. Blaine's book are of subsequent origin, suggested by occupancy of the same ground to some extent, and additional interest and benefit by the fact of differ- ent standpoints. I have neither the ability nor vanity to enter into any controversy or contrarieties, and now ignorant of the source of your solicitation for anything. My sphere in life has been professional with legislative experience within my State. It is true I have been proclaimed a candidate for Congress from the hustings by too partial friends and been met on different occasions by crowds and bands of music in advocacy of their desire for me to be Governor of the State, but never embarked as candidate for either, and the compliment thus more highly appreciated. I can have no personal views or, indeed, political in any reference to Mr. Blaine or his book, or any position or aspiration he may occupy. Not having voted in such contest for 43 over 20 years and never expecting to do so again, for though retain- ing domicile, church membership, eldership, etc., in Virginia, am too much absent from peculiar circumstances to engage in the usual local contests, and thus not offering a vote of any sort for many years. This I say in obviation of any impression of influence from any political considerations. mr. blaine's book. I can truly say of Mr. Blaine's book that it exhibits a research and combination and illustration of events beyond any reasonable concep- tion or anticipation of the capacity of the operations of mental faculties or physical endurance. He must have kept an accurate diary of events as they occurred during each of the twenty years in Congress, and except that so much relates to slavery, now obsolete and not likely to be revived or even thought of, his chronicle of occurrences would be of inestimable value. Whether it is best to criticise or obliterate these works and reminiscences or make record, is a matter of taste and judg- ment for each individual and community. Each section may feel a proper desire that any matter of contro- versy should terminate by occupancy of correct and appropriate posi- tion. The South like the North previously found itself in the posses- sion or encumbrance of slavery. What could be done? As an original question many in the South would have been as much opposed as in the North, and thus now opposed to restoration. They, however, felt there were rights guaranteed by the Constitution invaded or likely to be, which it was their duty to resist, and felt no hesitation in such re- sistance, and no lamentation for results as such. It is remarkable that of the great anti-slavery opposers or agitators as enumerated by Mr. Blaine, not one by residence or otherwise had opportunities of correct judgment or determination for their own conclusions. Few of these fought any of the battles, while those actively engaged in many in- stances were even opposed to such machinations. The slave popula- tion never incited it, for, as before stated, there was scarcely a murder or desertion witnessed, and generally, quiet residence, since their emancipation, and I may add emancipation of their masters, many of whom had to resort to other sources of income to sustain the expense of raising so many children and supporting so many enfeebled by age and disease. Whether these are substantially benefitted each may de- termine for himself. The able-bodied may make a more independ- 44 ent support. But the instances of those fed for twenty years out of Congress or requisition of labor sitting under shade trees, with deed or bill of sale for the essentials of their comfort on the whole farm are not likely to be again exhibited, but ardently desired and sought for, they being the judges. Instances of barbarity might occur as to masters and husbands without destroying the peculiar and respective institutions. But my object is simply to enforce that neither side has any special reasons for criminations or retrospect to disturb present re- lations or future argumentation, and thus let all rest in peace, with direction for more useful and practical considerations. While Mr. Blaine's book thus exhibits a most remarkable and com- mendable research and presentation, it is reasonably evident that all is colored and regulated by the particular standpoint of nativity, local- ity, and incidental associations not quadrating with those from differ- ent standpoints and interests. The characterization of " extraordinary," "aspersion," etc., as applied to the views of others occupying much higher positions in U. S. Senate and the offices and elevation of their countrymen and constituents certainly admit of argument and opposi- tion, the indulgence of which may be useful in balancing any asperity or exacerbation thus engendered resulting in the desired consumma- tion of personal and national peace and conciliation. Mr. Blaine's allusion to Mr. Davis, President of Confederacy, is as fair as could be reasonably expected, and for illustration of the assertion will quote verbatim, though no room or object for more. Referring to his resigna- tion of his position as Senator in the U. S. Senate, he states : " In his farewell words to the Senate there was a tone of moderation and dig- nity not unmixed with regretful and tender emotions. There was also apparent a spirit of confidence and defiance. He evidently had full faith that he was going forth to victory and to power. He pre- sented an analysis of the difference between the remedies of nullifica- tion and secession. Nullification was a remedy inside of the Union, secession a remedy outside. He expressed himself as against the theory of nullification, and explained that so far from being identical with secession, the two are antagonistic principles. Mr. Calhoun's mistake according to Mr. Davis was in trying to nullify the laws of the Union while continuing a member of it. He intimated that Presi- dent Jackson would never have attempted to execute the laws in South Carolina as he did against the nullifiers in 1832, if the State had se- 45 ceded, and that therefore his great example could not be quoted in favor of ' coercion.' It is not believed that Mr. Davis had the slight- est authority for this aspersion upon the memory of Jackson. For sev- eral years he had been growing in power with a powerful element in the Democracy of the free States, and but for the exasperating quarrel of 1860, he might have been selected as the Presidential candidate of his party. No man gave up more than Mr. Davis in joining the revolt against the Union." Now whether the expression of opinion as to the opinion of another in an emergency never having arisen, is an " aspersion " in usual ac- ceptation of the term, and whether such sentiments and action deserve the execration and condemnation administered, each can judge for himself. The South honestly believed that a continuance in the Union under the circumstances aud prognostications endangered their rights as guaranteed by the Constitution, that secession was preferable to nullification, and, indeed, preferable to such continual wrangling in same deliberative bodies ; had never desired nor designed more than to act on the defensive. At the time of the association, previously referred to, while Mr. Davis continued to anticipate " going forth to victory and power," he desired the separation in the most peaceful manner possible, and at that time such separation seemed best for all concerned. Subsequent events may have changed such appearances, and all may be best as occurred. Any deriving comfort for such connection with so many hundreds of thousands hurried into eternity may find little opposition or ground for any congratulation and complacency, and thus another removal of conflicting feelings and diversities, with corresponding pro- motion of mutual gratification and complacency — and thus let the past be buried, which, however, disposes of perhaps the largest or a large proportion of Mr. Blaine's presentations. As previously argued the best that can be done is to offer facilities, inducements and auxiliaries to make the new fledged citizens good and useful citizens, no one class or denomination sufficient for an entire body politic, aud thus incen- tive for promotion of every ramification and department. The odium attached to slavery was much in the name. Call it servitude, appren- ticeship', or any similar nomenclature, though the same thing, much amelioration might result. The intelligent, the artisan, the efficient laborers may get along under their own management and government. 46 WHAT SHOULD BE DONE NOW. But in my view, the philanthropists, in amelioration of the term abo- litionists have now a more weighty duty to perform in providing for those under the emancipation, secured or inflicted, more especially the aged, the infants, the diseased and disabled from wounds, broken limbs, etc. Formerly, as I explained, the aged had a deed of trust on the farm they had cultivated, for sometimes long life, and not a lick of work required. The able-bodied becoming sick, there might have been a sordid calculation of loss from death and the best medical and other attendance secured. The infants gave some assurance of future profit, justifying present expense and protection. These incentives removed, some substitution becomes indispensable. I am thus arguing in behalf of the emancipated and presenting what should be a pleasing duty to the emancipators, desiring to be regarded amongst the eman- cipated and in need of the co-operation of the emancipators, not long paying a doctor's bill for one breaking or injuring a limb by too much freedom in the use of fire-arms without the means of such payment, and though amongst the working portion never expecting to collect a cent of such bill. I repeat there is much more need of sympathy and philanthropy now than formerly in such cases, and I shall regard it as among the blessings of emancipation if such benefaction be secured. Although one-third or more of Mr. Blaine's book is devoted to this subject, now obliterated, I feel I have said enough to dispose of it for the substi- tution of what might be termed the aid societies for those thus in need of such aid. It was perhaps the inelegant expression of a former owner in applying the term "cannibals" to those he owned, because he had to sell some to feed the balance, the alternative now being in some cases starvation or suffering, and thus hope I may be instru- mental in accomplishing some good, being my only controlling object in these presentations. The remaining subject of controversy as discussed by Mr. Blaine or prominently exhibited, is the tariff question, unfortunately still a source of discord and dissension. As before stated, this subject depends much on locality, climate, occupation, all concentrating in individual per- sonal interest. The most remarkable feature in Mr. Blaine's descrip- tion consists in the most remarkable tergiversations of the most able 47 and learned financiers and political economists. He includes Wash- ington, Madison, etc., as amongst the original protectionists of former times. Mr. Calhoun subsequently, not only for protection but for in- ternal improvements. Mr. Webster, then a free-trader, looking to the commerce of his particular section. Who can now imagine that Penn- sylvania members opposed duties on coal, desiring cheap importation in development of their ores. That Maryland desired similar protec- tion for manufactured glass then made in her limits. That indigo and tobacco were once protected in Southern interest, and once 3 cents duty on imported cotton ? What reflection that Mr. Webster should become a strong tariff man and Mr. Calhoun a nullifier of tariff laws. Who with such examples can be intolerant of any expression of any opinion lest his anathemas may be hurled against himself in some subsequent emer- gency ? Mr. Clay was much the most consistent, because, perhaps, much the most moderate in the position of lending a helping hand to the in- fant manufactures of the country, while raising the necessary revenues of the Government, the feature of protection based on protection of pe- culiar products. The area of manufactures and products supposed to be benefitted by such protection is becoming so extensive as to curtail and subdue this source of discontent and vituperation, that no majority can harmonize without some favor to this object. A party must sensibly con- sider whether in requiring all to its liking they may lose all, or even adopting that which is objectionable secure a part of its predilections. It is thus we may anticipate relief from party acerbities and vitupera- tions, and it being my object and effort to remove all sources of dis- cord and division, I may cordially indulge the gratification and antici- pation that even at least the bitterness of this discord may be sweet- ened by the diversity of occupations in the different regions, or the peculiar productions of each community so regarded as to harmon ize the whole, thus all uniting in one common current of prosperity sweeping away all petty discord and diversity, and uniting in one general stream of national exaltation, bidding defiance to the armies and machinations of the world. I have already referred to the circumstances, and your suggestion that, occupying the ground so fully explored by Mr. Blaine, I neces- sarily come in some conflict, collision, or contrariety, as you say from different stand-points, giving me the advantage of some personal ob- servation and experience. 48 Far be it from me to seek any such collision or conflict unless from sincere desire to do actual good in removal of any prejudices or error or injustice essential to proper understanding or appreciation. Though once called on by a State Legislature to revise a State code of laws, I feel incompetent to a revision of the general topics discussed by Mr. Blaine, though from nativity and locality, and consequent dis- ability, he may unintentionally advance sentiments unjust and unrea- sonable. In reading his learned book I really made a memorandum of some of the terms thus used, not altogether consonant to ears polite or in fair and open delineation of the history of exciting times, each section en- titled to the privileges construction, and appropriation of any peculiar sentiments or even coincident misconceptions. I find on my memo- randum the terms " insolent," " insulting," " extraordinary," " asper- sion," " insolence," " abhorrent," " ludicrous," and in every instance applied to persons in high or higher political or personal position than he occupied at that or any subsequent period of his life, nearly all in their graves as well as their associates or contemporaries in the thril- ling scenes referred to. Indeed he specially enumerates Hon. Jefferson Davis, Robert Toombs, and R. M. T. Hunter, as all, in certain coincidences, now liv- ing, and who can now vindicate any disparagements or criticisms. The allusions to Gen Robert E. Lee, so far as they indicate haste and anxiety to unite in what he calls rebellion against constituted authorities, are inconsistent with the impressions which had occupied my mind and suppositions, being so much exposed as to property and the confidence and favor of the government he was then serving. Here rises in proud exaltation the considerations of nativity, and all those social and endearing ties without which man would be a brute and unworthy the appreciation of elevated and refined humanity and philanthropy, in any sphere in which he might be required to act. I have already referred to the elevated and endearing associations of a family I denominated about the most remarkable in its consanguinities and just pretensions I knew on earth ; and that with no expecta- tion of subsequent reference in illustration of the tender feelings of our natures, without which icebergs would be more appropriate illustra- tions. Now it may be beyond my province to judge or suggest what might 49 be or should be, the feelings of others. But I have a right, and, in this case, reason for judging or imagining those that would prompt me in similar emergencies. HOW MR. BOOTH FEELS. I thus feel that if I had a nativity and locality amongst the ice- bergs of Maine, or even a less frigid region, and Gen. Lee had acted differently, or drawn his sword against the land and companions of his native section and early endearments, even if differing with him, a howl of denunciation and disgust for opposing his native land would have so shaken those granite hills or mountains that the vibrations would have extended through the length and breadth of that native region. Gen. Scott might have once supposed himself actuated by duty and patriotism competent to such invasion, but not when he used to me the words: ''No position, no influence, over there at the North." It was known 'o me that his own nephew, one cf my highly esteemed schoolmates at that Winfield Academy, named thus after him, had in that immediate vicinity, actually buried as a dead body a portrait which had proudly exhibited the noble and manly features exciting so much admiration and regard. While few so deprecated such collision and animosities, still fewer could so intensely abhor the absence of those ties and sensibilities which should at least soften if not subdue the acrimony and denunciation indulged by inferior impulses and pre- possessions. In thus presenting and enforcing the ancestry and national prepos- sessions and predilections of Gen. Lee, I might refer to an occasion complimented and enhanced by the presence and co-operation of Mr. Blaine, having occupied a seat near him during the delivery of Mr. Wmthrop's great address at Yorktown 19th of last October. I had been previously instrumental in the preparation of a map of Yorktown and contemplated monument, with the distinguished localities and personages connected with Revolutionary incidents, and that special oc- casion. Prominent in that perspective appears the handsome figures and military regimentals of " Light-horse Harry Lee," the distin- guished father of Gen. Robert E. Lee, the friend and companion of Washington on that occasion, and the object of Washington's enthu- siastic subsequent support in excited and important Congressional elec- 50 tions, afterwards governor of Virginia, and author of the sentiment as applied to Washington : " First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." The twin likenesses of Washington and Lafayette, with the American and French Generals and comrades are in prominent representation. In the same line and prominence with " Light-horse Harry Lee," and Patrick Henry, appear the likenesses of the living heroes of the occasion in the distinguished poets, Hayne and Hope, and orator of the occasion, Hon. Robert C. vVinthrop, immediately in connection with the beautiful and inspiring monument in process of erection. If that map had been of subsequent preparation it might have been suitably embellished by the photograph of Mr. Blaine as a participant in such celebration. I have it however, not only in his book, but of special acquisition, and if I make a book, such an ornamentation shall certainly not be neglected, not dreading the comparison with those that may accompany it. Indeed, I must try to annex and associate this wonderful map with any book or preparation I may present. But I really commenced the allusion to this map and incidents to antedate the ancestry and inherited patriotism, chivalry, and devotion of Gen. Robert E. Lee, in appreciation of any kind of independence essential to the land of his nativity, where he first saw the light of heaven, and where, by choice, he preferred his disembodied spirit should take and did take its everlasting flight. Mr. Blaine's declaration as to Gen. Lee that <( he gave the influence of his eminent name to the schemes of those who by every agency, fas aut nefas, were determined to hurl Virginia into secession," is cer- tainly different from my preconceived impressions, which were that he never meddled in politics or schemes of any kind unless in connection with his duty and the military success of his whole country, in Mexico and elsewhere, and that if he took any step in advance of secession it was in certain anticipation of such contingency and desire for the ag- grandizement of his native State and associations. I never had the pleasure of an introduction to him till by a very elegant lady at White Sulphur Springs, after the war, inducing me to repeat, in playful allu- sion to the remark of an individual on the mention of Mr. Jefferson's name, that " he had heard of Mr. Jefferson, and believed he was a very respectable man," which he seemed, in similar playfulness, very willing 51 to appropriate ; but beyond the limits of what he regarded as duty and propriety, do not believe he had schemes of any kind. As before illustrated none of the fighting men evinced any bitter- ness or invective. I have sufficiently referred to General Meade and occurrences in his tent and elsewhere. I was in General Crawford's tent and he was at my private residence, all exemplifying the illustra- tions expressed. General Grant very magnanimously is willing to contribute of his substance to maimed and suffering former adversa- ries. I have also adverted to the fact that not one of the prominent slavery agitators ever lived within corresponding boundaries, with op- portunities of judging. It is now of little use to refer to these somewhat obsolete issues, ex- cept that all may rest in peace and proper position; that all acerbities may be sweetened and all wounds permanently healed. My predominant solicitude is to ascertain what substitutes are to be provided for the former abolition societies and agencies. What of substance is to be provided for the sustenance and support of those deprived of former protection and solicitude? I am not re- pining at the boasted success of such achievements ; but surely the battle is perhaps not half won till followed up by more substantial evidences of some new-born zeal in perpetuating and enhancing the results of such congratulatory performances. I hope Mr. Blaine will excuse me for thus suggesting useful material for his next volume of live issues and benefits, and not exhaust such prolific resources and in- vestigations and criticisms on the dead past of painful retrospect, if thus confined ; of unprofitable and interesting vaticinations of the an- ticipated benefits of emancipation It may be fiat he will have a higher, and the highest, sphere of operations to accomplish such im- portant and beneficial prospective. I have explained that though to some extent a maker of the State laws, I have been unwilling to en- counter the disquisitions and distinctions of domicile and residence, thus paralyzing one vote against him or in favor of any competitor for the high office to which he aspires under the presentation of ad- miring friends, and thus feel a more disinterested commentator on the occurrences of the past or consequences of the future, and these desul- tory and disconnected responses for the Progress, uninfluenced by any personal or political considerations, and no such allusions contem- plated in the commencement; a collision of sentiment and argument 52 being sometimes productive, of results preferable to original contem- plation, having no ambition nor aspiration beyond compliance with reasonable friendly request and the accomplishment of any good ob- ject or purpose. THE MISFOETUNE OF A FORTUNE. Although the preface to any production usually comes first in the order of reading, it is generally the last in preparation. This is pe- culiarly so on the present occasion, never having seen it until all the preceding had been prepared. I have previously expressed ignorance or uncertainty as to the spe- cific object and limits of your first application. I thus felt at liberty to inaugurate any topics or discussion the current of my own im- pulses might suggest or glide into, and thus little regular order or ram- ification, it frequently being the desire of editors to command any materials supplying their columns with any interesting reading matter. From examination of your preface or explanation I find more def- inite suggestion of personal biography, and individual incidents than I had supposed, not having the slightest idea of the source whence you derived information of any peculiar personal reminiscences or associa- tion. Those of a public nature have already been adverted to, though, as stated, with little order in presentation. I have deferred individual personal references from absence of any- thing of general interest or benefit to others, my prevailing impulse and aspiration. If I undertake such personal exposition, it is to in- corporate any incidents or occurrences of general application or ben- efit to others. In this connection I may perhaps present some occurrences and re- sults, especially in the somewhat ingenious exhibition of the misfor- tune of a fortune, and the fortune of a misfortune, occurring in the every day manifestation of every community, and useful to the rising generation in every clime and country. The history of most or many of those attaining distinction in the elevated success and wealth and honors of the country, will most usually find their origin in the neces- sity of individual exertion and laborious attention in some useful occupation, I don't know that I can more satisfactorily comply with 53 • your desire for any personal incidents than to republish some already in existence, having some personal desire for their preservation for any future usefulness, rather than for individual commendation, and as preliminary, will dispose of the individual biography, the execution of which may to a considerable extent accomplish the purpose of your first solicitation. I was born in the county of Nottoway, Virginia : commenced my Academic preparation at Winfield Academy, in that vicinity thus named in compliment to Maj. General Winfield Scott, a native of the same locality, and I was greatly interested on some crowded occa- sion in Richmond by introducing him to the descendants of his early- friends, embracing my own father, with generally kind reminiscences of all. This also gave me access to him during the war, or latter part of it, as prominent actor, then, however, in his own terms, " No posi- tion, no influence,'' the favor of his early friends also impaired. My chief preparation was in Oxford, North Carolina, entering the college at Chapel Hill at 14, graduating at 18, with opportunity of exhibiting one of the warning beacons or examples primarily pre- sented in the misfortune of a fortune, sufficient for the indulgence of some exception from the necessity of exertion and application essen- tial to success. I did take a course of law lectures at Judge Lomax's law school, in Fredericksburg, Va., somewhat as an accomplishment, though the only- one of a large class receiving his signature to a law license, all not justifying it, and thus declining at the time, but with private sugges- tion of sending him mine, thus receiving his signature. As further beacon, I did not then go into vigorous practice till threatened with overwhelming embarrassments from responsibilities of an only brother in large commercial speculations and otherwise. I then surrendered every dollar of my property to Judge Thos. S. Gholson, with Judge Jas t H. Gholson and Judge John F. May as advisory counsel, with remark that I would qualify on any residue as Administrator de bonis non, it being a remarkable fact that I was thus such Adminis- trator on my own estate, all having been my devoted friends to the last moment of their existence, with frequent recurrence to such expres- sion. But I only desired to say : I thus embarked into the most vig- orous practice of the law, the clerk of my county soon remarking, " Your practice is equal to every lawyer at this bar put together." 54 There being two sides to every case, it is necessary to explain it re- sulted from the business of almost every Petersburg firm and estate in that section,, and in the country, with application of the living to be their Executor when they died. As a member of the Virginia Legis- lature 1848 and 9, I was selected with able coadjutors to revise the laws of the State. This was about the commencement of the war-like premonitions and thunderings, soon silencing usual avocations and occupations, and this retrospect and delineation essential to some compliance with your re- quest, as well as preparation for the recollections and associations of my peculiar position, enabling me to present and perpetuate many of the incidents and concomitants of the war, which circumstances do not extend to auy other individual imposing on you the responsibility of any exposure to criticism or disparagement. IN WASHINGTON IN '61. As previously explained, I spent much of the winter of 1861 in Washington, under Union proclivities for the North and South, hoth political and personal. The master workmen in such important consum- mation were Hons. Thomas Ewing and Samuel F. Vinton, of Ohio, and John I. Crittenden, of Kentucky, with elevated co-operation of others. After much earnest deliberation and consultation, preamble, resolutions, etc., were drawn up in the handwriting of Mr. Ewing, warmly approved by all thus named, and, as Mr. Ewing informed me, would be supported by such as Hons. John Sherman, and Wm. H. Seward, and believed at that time satisfactory to all desiring satis- faction. I carried them to Richmond. They were presented to a com- mittee of the Legislature, by Judge Henry W. Thomas, of Fairfax, whose concurrences and adoption were sufficient to secure the elevated approbation of all adorning that category. They were put in print, and I had in my possession a copy since the war, but mislaid, and perhaps the publication might open wounds it were better to remain cicatrized, and referred to us as evidence of earnest and sincere efforts for peace. It seemed strange that in the turmoil and excitement prevailing, that committee could never find time or inclination for effective action 55 and presentation till the occurrences at Sumpter merged every other consideration in the doctrine inter arma leges silent. This retrospect may be useful in any succeeding emergency. Mr. Crittenden had previously presented what was termed the " Crittenden Compromise." I well recollect his considerate declaration, " That is better than mine," and also his further emphatic expression, " Secession is eman- cipation by blood." The war commenced, all in the current had to go with it, and an oblivion of the incidents is preferable to resuscita- tion. The next important movement' of the peacemakers was a peaceable separation, in the language of Mr. Everett, " If they will go, let them go in peace." Very few, during the first two years of the war, thought the subjugation of the South practicable, or desirable with any reasonable alternative. I confess this was the impression upon me when I started North. Having received Mr. Everett at the house of Judge Gholson, in Petersburg, Va., when he went South to deliver his great address, I was thus impressed by his sentiments and declara- tions. But these matters of a public nature have been sufficiently discussed and the repetition herein resulting from the propriety of incorpora- ting my individual connection as ingredient in the individual biography. Such allusion has been previously made to the me- morial proceedings of Judges Moncure and Ould, and as applicable also to Judge Sharswood, as to justify full insertion more easily than partial elimination, adding the full speeches of Judge Parker and Mr. Brooke, only previously referred to in short extracts, and also adding in the enumeration of contents. The great funeral sermon of Judge Ould, by Rev. Dr. Hoge, of Richmond, Virginia, which may be appropriately succeeded by similar perpetuation of a production previously written by me on the " Personality of the Holy Spirit," I might be able to proclaim that I had adorned all the Presidencies and Kingdoms of the whole earth and all perishing in the using, un- less the imbittered reflection of lost opportunities of doing good, thus biting like a serpent and stinging like an adder. As a closing biog- raphy to a closing life, I would prefer to leave this simple production as the " conclusion of the whole matter " to all the offices and adula- tions of a sinful world. The names of those approving memorial and tract, whose letters, 56 quotations once made, are in the regular order : Rev. Albert Barnes, Judges Strong, Woodward, Sharswood, Rev. Dr. John Chambers, President Woolsey, Rev. Dr. Chester, and others not recollected. Some of those commending the Memorial Proceedings are : Hons. Judge Strong, Mr. Winthrop, Mr. Faulkner, Rev. Dr. Dwight, Jne. W. Dulles, Mr. Colesbury, Jas. Alfred Jones, Esq., Judge H. S.Neale and others, some of which may appear if room sufficient. Those approving verbally by the legion, and all important pro- claiming in advocacy of proper sentiments and freedom in their adoption. Many letters applauding the Progress publications might be inserted in protection and support of the favor expressed by Prog- ress and correspondence, and silencing the criticism and disparage- ment frequently the emanation and result of a frail or envious hu- manity. The circumstances, incidents, and occurrences under which these desultory disquisitions and dissertations have been brought upon me, have been sufficiently delineated and explained, commencing in friendly impulse to perform a friendly purpose in supposed ability to enhance the columns of a worthy and interesting journal of such peculiar illus- trations. The " currente calamo," widening and deepening into a full current beyond any reasonable anticipation on the principle of " ac- quirit vires eundo " in such progress, all concurring in the fair and just principle of representation of both stand-points, as only timidity or want of confidence could desire to preclude such representation in the "audi alteram partem" essential to full elucidation, even though different opinions and conclusions might result from such presentations, the caption to the call on me, or the editorial preface, referring to the supposition at least " of a vast fund of reminiscences of men and things both North and South during and just preceding the war." As a faith- ful historian or chronicler of actual events, occurrences, and impelling motives and impulses, it is both just and proper that all should be fully portrayed as adopted and acted on by those thus adopting and acting, and even with different sentiments and conduct, full allowance and appreciation should be accorded to those influenced by different circumstances and positions. From my observations and experience in both localities, and about the only person with such opportunities, I am thus better prepared for candid and impartial presentation of the views and impulses prompt- 57 ing and controlling the different politicians and combatants, and though in deadly conflict and collision, each in change of position, per- haps, confirming the action of the other. It was thus that the inci- dents of Gen. Lee's arraignment and invective should be considered. Not as an excuse — none being necessary — but to show that even those differing otherwise should appreciate the endearing ties of kindred and nativity, not concurring or confiding in any person's convictions if scheming " per fas aut nefas " to hurl Virginia into secession, or any such scheming for any purpose. My personal association with Mr. Toombs and Mr. Hunter impress me that they would disdain any de- fence or accusation of improper motives or objects. A. H. Stephens, Vice-President of the Confederacy, encountered criticism and invective for his conservative, peaceful manifestations, until he had to co-operate with his native section or in hostility against it, outliving any maledic- tions, and, indeed, commanding the appreciation of his former adver- saries. My last association with him in Philadelphia that I recollect, consisted in supporting his feeble limbs (from exposure and confine- ment) in walking from my own house to return the social attentions of Gen. Robert Patterson, and receiving about his last signature while Governor in Atlanta, Georgia, to a friendly letter addressed to myself. The Confederate Secretary of War, Hon. James A. Seddon, in Con- gress perhaps during Mr. Blaine's "twenty years " or preceding them, is associated with my recollection of his brilliant efforts at the bar prior to his marriage. Indeed, while a law student in Fredericks- burg, I was cognizant of the high reputation of his father, compared to a square and compass to determine how near others were to being straight and right. His accomplished wife was entertained by me during the Centennial at the old Virginia building, the sister of my esteemed and elevated friend and college mate, James C. Bruce, whom I visited the first part of the war, alighting from his carriage, which he had sent for me, with the remark that I had not a particle of busi- ness with him nor a word in particular to say to him, only acting from previous and existing collegiate and personal proclivities and regard. I have already referred to Judge Robert Ould, so intimately connected with the Confederate government, and to his magnificent address in the memorial proceedings for Judge Moncure, and his deplored death, oc- curring in a few days ; the same proceedings embracing his funeral sermon by his eloquent pastor, Rev. Dr. Hoge, indicative not only of 58 an honorable life, but peaceful and triumphant death, I fear beyond the attainment of any disposed to criticise or disparage. But time and the patience of others preclude eulogy or even imper- fect reference to the brilliant galaxy who, even if mistaken, should be above the invective or malediction of former elevated adversaries. As before intimated, no noble warrior has thus indulged in any boast of conquest with such advantages, and instead of depreciation of any kind, disposed to accord the highest encomiums for valor and in- trepidity. It has been with much hesitation and reluctance that I have suc- cumbed to such an undertaking and have to present the reasons and incentives justifying and prompting it. I am perhaps the only man, North or South, with such varied ex- periences and opportunities by land or water to comply with the in- junctions and applications made upon me. The nearest approxima- tion perhaps might be my esteemed venerable and venerated friend, Rev. Dr. Peyton Harrison, of the genuine old James river coin and stamp, having the same reasons as myself, under similar circumstances, in heaping the choicest blessings on others, to wish that they were not almost but altogether as he is, not excepting these bonds. But I am perhaps indulging unwarranted and unsuitable exhilara- tions for such occasion. Whether I shall do more depends on what others may do or appreciate or tolerate, repeating my only aspiration and effort to inspire " peace on earth and good will to man " and wo- man, and all in both and all sections of every country, and without which the earth would be sad, and the desert a wild. It must be con- ceded, even by his distinguished competitor, that Mr. Blaine has the advantage of him in this respect, which is, however, of possible re- moval. Bow far a person's misfortunes should excite sympathetic amelioration by other success or by entire obliteration otherwise might tolerate and justify the suffrages of both sexes, and substitute smiles for sighs, a cheering and animating conclusion compensating all defeat and healing all lacerations. It is now a matter for necessity of proper understanding and in- formation and accuracy ot dates and incidents, that these presentations should be extended, perhaps into a book of speedy preparation, though perhaps of necessary repetitions in similar explanations. INTRODUCTION TO SUPPLEMENT. It is proper to explain -that my allusion to Mr. Blaine's assertion as to General Lee, that " he gave the influence of his eminent name to the schemes of those who, by every agency, fas aid nefas, were deter- mined to hurl Virginia into secession," was made simply from im- pressions to the contrary, not really knowing how I acquired them. Mr. Blaine states in same connection, " It is fair that his action should be clearly understood, and that his name should bear its just responsi- bility." This is certainly very " fair " and just. I have since exam- ined the records and find that Mr. Lincoln's proclamation for 75,000 troops was dated April 15th, 1861, that the Virginia ordinance of se- cession was passed two days afterwards, or 17th of April, also, in ac- cordance with Mr. Blaine's statement. Mr. Lincoln's second procla- mation, or rather command of obedience, etc., was dated April 19th. The Confederate Government had been established February 8th pre- ceding. Now I copy verbatim from General Lee's letter to General Scott : Arlington, Va., April 20th, 1861. General: Since my interview with you on the 18th instant, I have felt that I ought not longer to retain- my commission in the army. I therefore tender my resignation, which I request you will recommend for acceptance. It would have been presented at once but for the struggle it has caused me to separate myself from a service to which I have devoted the best years of my life and all the ability I possessed. Save in defence of my native State, I never desire again to draw my sword. Most truly yours. R. E. Lee. (All with highest personal manifestations.) Now it is fair to state that the vote on this ordinance was not taken till the 4th Thursday in May. But especially in Eastern Virginia, 59 60 where that extensive and distinguished family connection resided, where he first saw the light of heaven, this vote was a mere formal- ity, or no vote substantially, nearly unanimous. That proclamation had silenced that brilliant galaxy of Union men sufficient to illumine the world, such as Hons. Alex. H. H. Stuart, Jno. B. Baldwin, Wm. C. Rives, Robert E. Scott, John Janny, Alex. H. Stephens, John Bell, in high positions. I say silenced, I might say became vociferous in behalf of their native sections, never having contemplated drawing any swords against them, and perhaps chiding General Lee and others for procrastination. Brave and determined men always act cautiously and circumspectly, from intention to stand firm in proper emergency. But that emergency had practically arisen the 8th of February, or more certainly 15th of April. You, Mr. Editor, stated early in the reminiscences and presentation that I was " into it," in which I did not then concur. This may become necessary that all may be fairly understood. There may be little use in discussions of the past, of slavery, State rights, etc. But historical accuracy for reference by future generations, and what of the future of this generation, may be important. Already of that glittering phalanx enumerated the venerable, the venerated, pure- minded and elevated Hon. Alex. H. H. Stuart, remaining as the Ulti- mus Romanorum. The foregoing was commenced prior to Mr. Blaine's Presidential nomination, and practically completed prior to his letter of acceptance, and thus no political significance or responsibility designed for any per- son. The diversity of views and presentations occurring from the different standpoints occupied, only a fair and full elucidation of the whole subjects from the entire ground intended. Nothing but unjust and unreasonable party prejudice can withhold from that letter of ac- ceptance the highest commendation for ability, ingenuity, research and completeness of argument for his side of the question discussed. But it has always been said there are two sides to every question* In this case there happens to be three sides. Manufacturing, Com- mercial or Shipping, and Agricultural. Undoubtedly the manufactur- ing department is enhanced and promoted by the exclusion of compe- tition and any agencies affecting such result, whether by duties, mo- nopolies or any other consideration, like two horses in a race one as- 61 sisted by handicapping the other, and thus exciting doubt as to^the fairness and propriety of the race, of course whatever excludes or trammels foreign products may enure to the benefit of the domestic. It may be further admitted that to the extent of any local demand, the agricultural department may also be promoted. But undoubtedly . also, the shipping interest is thereby impaired or prostrated, and also the agricultural to the extent of reciprocity in the exchanges of produce, minerals, or other ingredients of pucIi exchanges. As I previously argued, each is prone to favor that system most beneficial to its inter- ests. It was in this contingency that Mr. Webster became such an able and efficient advocate of free trade, representing a region so interested in the shipping department, Mr. Calhoun, the more mindful of the manufacturing and agricultural ascendency. Now I have visited Mr. Blaine's locality in Maine, and Mr. Cal- houn's in South Carolina, and if a full exchange of localities and in- terests could be effected, I would charge a heavy premium for insur- ance against a corresponding change in sentiments and arguments. I am here reminded of an occurrence at the bar of an able advocate, in some way mistaking the proper current of argument for his client, and making a very strong one against him. When reminded of his error or forgetfulness, he simply remarked, " This, gentlemen of the jury, is what my opponents will tell you, and it is easy to satisfy you of its entire fallacy," and then continued to make an equally able argument in the interest of his client. I thus desire only to exhibit the prone- ness of each advocate to favor the interest of his particular section and secure mutual toleration, forbearance and liberality, in mutual conces- sion. This has been the current and distinction of my whole effort and argument to harmonize and conciliate that neither could desire a monopoly of the whole benefits. If all were seeing and smelling where is the hearing, and neither one is prepared to appreciate the pe- culiar proclivities of the other, without some corresponding opportun- ities such as you supposed me to possess, and thus I have desired to comply, irrespective of any present candidates for high office, it being so difficult to find any one person suiting the different climes and in- terests of a diversified and extended country, with such a ramification and diversity of interests. If I were required apart from my per- sonal or political prepossessions to present an illustration of the golden 62 medium or the "in medio tutissimus ibis," the Hon. Samuel J. Randall occurs to me as the most satisfactory combination of the different ele- ments with enough Tariff ingredient to at least mollify any extreme exactions of the Tariff advocates, and not enough to excite the op- position of those who by such opposition might glide into a vor- tex more hostile and injurious to their cherished predictions and in- terests. This is only accordant with my previously proposed design to har- monize all conflicting elements of sectional exasperation, to cicatrize all sectional wounds and asperities of language and feeling, and would be glad to give Mr. Blaine a power of attorney to represent me to the effect that if by any construction or supposition he can find in any- thing I have written, any manifestations properly represented by such terms as " insolent," " insolence," " aspersion," " abhorrent," " ludic- rous," "fas aut nefas" he will at once expunye them, not as in the vindictive, acrimonious ebullitions as in the times of General Jackson and Mr. Benton, but in the interests of" peace on earth and good will to men." The intelligent reader will readily comprehend the circumstances under which the foregoing has been prepared, that in the inception little more was contemplated than compliance with request for some life incidents and whatever might interest the readers of a literary journal requiring no regular system or continuity in the different presentations, and thus no special connections with the different sub- jects discussed precluding any definite index or order. This may be some relief compared with the elaboration of the same continued topics. There was certainly no desire or design for any criticism or special reference to any of Mr. Blaine's productions, which can only result from the occupancy of the same ground and the views from dif- ferent standpoints, essential to full development of incidental pros- pects. No one can properly wish to stir up occurrences of the past con- nected with any painful reflections or to open wounds so long cica- trized or even in process of healing, unless promotive of such perma- nence and recovery or obliteration, which can only result from placing them in true and proper position, precluding any necessity for further explanations or additions. All brave warriors in termination of well- fouo-ht battles should incline to full justice towards honorable adver- 63 saries. I may almost say it is my exclusive purpose in my peculiar relations North and South to exemplify all ingredients for the most harmonious prepossession the circumstances allow, especially when the former incentives have been so far removed. The former lacerations and exacerbations from discussions of Slavery, State Rights, etc., can now find little material for controversy or invective. Whether right or wrong, the decision of battle has silenced all angry contentions. Then the subject of the Tariff and incidental connections has lost its bitterness or significance in the ability and determination of many to secure the benefits which were designed as injuries or at least so an- ticipated. I have referred to the history and consequences of change of sentiments and arguments, from change of interests, personal and political, each influenced by individual or sectional considerations. There is no doubt that much of the destruction and deterioration of the South can be repaired by increased attention to manufacturing and mining facilities, enabling the securement of advantages more favor- able to other sections when inaugurated. Indeed more improbable occurrences have transpired than the exportation of manufactured ar- ticles from the South to the North or to foreign localities, now per- haps exporting to other climes. The greater facilities have been pre- viously adverted to, and no good reason can be advanced against such contingency. Then comes the reparation somewhat with a vengeance, or the best retaliation possible, peace having her victories as well as war. One of the chief objections to separation from the South was that it possessed the most important raw material for the maintenance and prosperity of Northern factories, though double transportation might result. WHAT ARE THE OBSTACLES TO HARMONIOUS CO-OPERATION ? Then if the embitterments of Slavery, State Rights, and the Tariff have been at least softened if not sweetened, where is the obstacle to general harmonious co-operation in all the essentials of industrial and national prosperity ? The South may have to bear at least the appear- ance of signal defeat in the late warlike demonstrations, but no ob- servant, considerate and liberal antagonist can exult and taunt at a de- feat against such odds, which could never have been so long and so- 64 successfully resisted except by feats of valor, exciting the admiration of the world, and in all my intercourse with the North I have no re- collection of any attempted humiliation or vapid boasting over any such success ; nor is there any disposition to detract from the merited and valorous achievements of the whole nation, indicating the impreg- nable security when combined against the machinations of the whole world, not likely to be exhibited. Nor, in a change of posi- tions, the North appreciating the condition of the South with such just and reasonable apprehensions of attack on vested and constitu- tional rights, can any one contemplate the resistance such apprehension so well justified. It was thus that I regarded the attack on General Lee's action so ill-judged, ill-timed and unjust. Admitting all sur- mises there is little to excite animadversion if under such apprehen- sions of disaster to his native region he had even as others might re- gard have schemed to hurl Virginia into secession, really from such apprehended disaster and violation of constitutional rights. It is at least right and proper that the records should be faithfully exhibited and regarded. I do not refer to my position as lawyer, code maker, etc., in any vanity or presumption, but the reverse in expressing legal opinions. I thus ought at least to have some familiarity with pleadings, pleas, and special pleas and pleadings, having so referred to Mr. Blaine's special Tariff pleadings, I admit to be specially able and ingenious for his side, being but one of three, and to make good his case he must show that one is more important to the common country than the other two. Sufficiently elaborated previously. Now it is a principle in mechanics that three forces can be so applied as to keep a body still or to propel it in a direction different from either. Now I am really very much inclined thus to the employment of all three forces in securing the proper direction liberal to all. It was thus that without the oppor- tunity of measuring or weighing special sentiments I inclined to Mr. Randall as an illustrious illustration, and not in conflict with any par- ticular person or party — some concession reasonable for all — thus dis- posing of the special Tariff pleadings. But while I thus make some modest pretensions, etc., the pleadings illustrated and enforced, there is another description of pleadings in which I proudly confess my deficiency, and being somewhat new in the absence of other nomenclature, I will denominate mispleadings of 65 the same genus as misjoinders. These occur in the declarations and conclusions as to Gen. Lee, previously referred to, viz. : that the pro- clamation of President Lincoln for 75,000 men to subdue the South, or at least to enforce his mandates and theories, was made on the 15th of April, 1861. That the ordinance of secession was passed by the Vir- ginia Legislature on the 17th. That Mr. Lincoln's proclamation com- manding obedience, etc., perhaps more offensive to gallant independent freemen at the time at least, was on the 19th. That General Lee's letter of resignation, dated at his then peaceful fireside, much nearer to Washington than Richmond, was dated on the 20th of same month, therefore General Lee gave u the influence of his eminent name to the schemes of those who by every agency fas aut nefas were determined to hurl Virginia into secession." Now if this is not a mispleading or misjoinder or nonjoinder it is certainly under the Virginia code a non sequitur. Who does not see who and what hurled Virginia into seces- sion ? Now I do really think that in Mr. Blaine's reciprocity of can- dor and compliment of his arguments he should acknowledge himself non-plussed and non-suited, in at least that declaration as exhibited against Gen. Lee. There is also another axiom or maxim, " ex uno disce omnia " or " from one learn all." Now understand, I am called to the stand somewhat as a judge from my own testimony, North and South, and from personal observation and experience, and the only witness as to all the observations and occurrences within the specified " war time," North and South, the inclination of my proclivities I con- fess being the best for each side, and I have already sufficiently ad- verted to some of the most important incidents as to both or all, the greatest acrimony arising from the treatment of prisoners. I have stated what I saw as to Generals McCall and Reynolds in a very large room with two beds and but two occupants, and also referred to Mr. Biddle and Libby prison. I did not go into Libby prison unless in the lower floor, not occupied by prisoners, or not fully so. I have, however, a distinct recollection of the cheerful looking faces in the up- per windows, removed in warm weather/ viewing the surrounding prospects perhaps with more satisfaction and composure than glittering hostile artillery. The prisoners were sent to Andersonville, not only for greater security, but to be in a more plentiful section, remote from transportation, and where the internal demand could be supplied with- out such transportation. The South at least claimed more liberality 66 and anxiety for exchange of prisoners in order to get rid of feeding them, perhaps more formidable in such destruction of supplies than from their weapons in the field, the South then dreading such scarcity more than the abundance of hostile soldiers, the number of prisoners taken by the South much greater in proportion to the numbers than Southern prisoners taken by the North, so let these accounts be ami- eably balanced. SOUTHERN PRISONERS. I have already stated the great liberality of the North in allowing the greatest opportunity in assistance to the Southern prisoners. The Rev. Dr. Junkin, who had experienced much kindness in the South, humanely devoted his personal services in such amelioration and re- ciprocity, though devoted to the Northern cause, and the North much more abundant in necessary supplies, and their prisoners at the South no doubt experiencing great hardships, but not more than some of the Confederate soldiers, and those in my knowledge reduced to broom- corn, and some not so fortunate. These wounds having been somewhat opened they are only probed for more healthy permanent recuperation and obliteration. But I am here guilty in the degree of " non sequitur " applied to Mr. Blaine, for I really had designed to follow up the misjoinder or nonjoinder as to General Lee by reference to others in similar denun- ciation and comparative injustice. As before stated these only living representatives of a particular category, as stated by Mr. Blaine, Hons. Jefferson Davis, Robert Toombs and R. M. T. Hunter would disdain any excuse or accusation for uniting with their friends and constituents in the course they pursued and required of their representatives. But in any accusation of scheming haste, per fas aut nefas, it may be proper to state that all their declarations were boldly proclaimed in the Senate of the United States and also their anxiety and solicitude to remain in the Union with proper guarantees, some time after the withdrawal of South Carolina. Their speeches are amongst the Con- gressional debates, accessible to all. Mr. Blaine has already given as favorable report of Mr. Davis as could be reasonably expected from his standpoint, a part already quoted, repeating from Mr. Davis : " In his farewell words to the Senate there was a tone of moderation and 67 dignity not unmixed with regretful and tender emotions. There was also apparent a spirit of confidence and defiance. He evidently had full faith that he was going forth to victory and to power." WHAT THE SOUTH ASKED. And still, when with reason to regard himself in that full power to resist all infraction and invasion, what was his language: " We feel that our cause is just and holy, and protest solemnly, in the face of mankind, that we desire peace at any sacrifice save that of honor and independence. We seek no conquest, no aggrandizement, no conces- sions from the Free States. All we ask is to be let alone — that none shall attempt our subjugation by arms. This we will and must resist to the direst extremity. The moment this pretension is abandoned the sword will drop from our hands and we shall be ready to enter into treaties of amity and commerce mutually beneficial. So long as this pretension is maintained, with firm reliance on that Divine Power which covers with its protection the just cause, we will continue to struggle for our inherent right to freedom, independence and self gov- ernment." This does not indicate any threat or desire for power over others, or for more than what he regarded proper maintenance of his own position and principles. He may have been mistaken, but those so regarding him must ap- preciate if not applaud his conscientious convictions and his courage, and his determination to at least attempt their maintenance. I happen to know that in the zenith of confident expectation, near the middle of the war, and when, as Mr. Blaine stated, " he evidently had full confidence that he was going forth to victory and to power," he indulged just the same sentiments and expressions as previously copied, the jour- nals to Congress affording other speeches or extracts confirmatory of all that has been presented. These occurrences being matters of Con- gressional record might be spun out indefinitely, but for results and contingencies not likely again to occur, and your application I repeat extending to simple narration of events without individual opinion or prepossessions. I confess my own aspiration was for " peace on earth and good will to man," or more especially to woman. A man must be callous to every impulse of honorable and elevated sensibility not 68 to commend the heroism and devotion of those gallant men in defence of conscientious convictions, even regarded as mistaken. General Robert Toombs is one of the other remaining heroes of brave and fearless devotion to those same conscientious convictions of the preservation of life, liberty, and property regarded in the Declaration of Independence as the natural rights of freedom. ROBERT TOOMBS. I recollect to have travelled through Georgia when Mr. Toombs was in his youthful ardor and aspiration, and have recollection of the name of the individual so successfully and eloquently defended in Col- umbus, Georgia, somewhat remote from his usual professional avenue, and when he and young Alexander H. Stephens were regarded the rising constellations in the professional and political firmament, their personal intimacy continuing as " par nobile fratrum " to the termina- tion of Mr. Stephens's earthly existence, and consecrated at his funeral. Mr. Toombs's farewell address on his taking leave of the U. S. Senate was regarded as a rare specimen of bold, defiant eloquence and ani- mated convictions of the right and duty as he comprehended. It must be something rare, indeed, to excite outbursts of applause in such as- semblages, this occurring after the secession of South Carolina, mate- rially embarrassing the position and locality of Georgia. The whole of the speech might be properly embraced if vindication were neces- sary, and perhaps embraced in some subsequent presentations, one ex- tract stating : " Senators, my countrymen have demanded no new gov- ernment, they have demanded no new constitution. Look to their re- cords at home and here, from the beginning of this strife to its con- summation in the disruption of the Union, and they have not demanded a single thing except that you shall abide by the Constitution of the United States, that constitutional rights shall be respected, and that justice shall be done; and since they have stood by your constitution they have stood by all its requirements ; they have performed all its duties unselfishly, uucalculatingly, disinterestedly, until a party sprang up in this country which endangered their social system — a party which they arraign and which they charge before the American people and all mankind with having made proclamation of outlawry against thousands of millions of their property in the territories of the United 69 States ; with having aided and abetted insurrections from within and invasion from without with the view of subverting their institutions and desolating their homes and firesides. . . . Senators, I have little care to dispute remedies with you unless you propose to redress my wrongs. If you propose that in good faith I will listen in respectful deference. But when the objectors to my remedies propose no adequate ones of their own, I know what they mean by the objection. They mean submission. But still I will as yet argue it with them Well, what can we do ? We cannot revolutionize. He will say that is treason. What can we do? Submit? They say they are the strongest, and they will hang us. Very well ; I suppose we are to be thankful for that boon. We will take that risk. We will stand by the right. We will take the constitution. We will defend it by the sword with the halter around our necks We have appealed time and time again for those constitutional rights. You have refused them. We appeal again. Restore those rights as we had them, as your courts adjudge them to be just, as our people have said they are. Redress the flagrant wrongs, seen of all men, and it will restore fra- ternity and peace and unity to us all. Refuse them, and what then ? We shall then ask you, ' Let us depart in peace.' Refuse that and you present us war. We accept it, and inscribing upon our banners the glorious words Liberty and Equality, we will trust to the blood of the brave and the God of battles for security and tranquillity." What British potentate, denouncing Patrick Henry as a rebel against Avhat he might have regarded " the best government in the world," who did not admire and applaud the thrilling eloquence of his impassioned prssentations of wrongs whether real or fancied ? Who with soul so dead as not to here recognize elevated resemblance ? and who can add to the force of such appeal ? There is no recorded set speech of Mr. Hunter on the occasion. He was doubtless in full har- mony, and satisfied with silent corroboration and concurrence in the conviction that sufficient had been said. I am impressed that he was the youngest man who ever occupied the Speaker's chair in the National House of Representatives. ROBERT M. T. HUNTER. It is said to be lawful to learn from an enemy or opponent. Mr. Blaine states : " Mr. Robert M. T. Hunter, of Virginia, was at the time 70 chairman of the Senate Committee of Finance. He was a man of sturdy common sense, slow in his methods, but strong and honest in his processes of reasoning. He advanced rapidly in public esteem, and in 1839, at thirty years of age, was chosen Speaker of the House of Representatives. ... At the outset of his public career he became as- sociated with Calhoun, and early imbibed the doctrines of that illus- trious Senator, who seldom failed to fascinate the young men who fell within the sphere of his personal influence. Mr. Hunter was no doubt entirely honest in this course. He was upright in all his personal and political relations, but he could not forget that he was born a Southern man and a slaveholder. He had a full measure of that pride in his State so deeply cherished by Virginians." Now these men may have been mistaken ; but the idea of any upstart bellowing out " Rebel," " Traitor," or such opprobrious epithets is too ridiculous for contemplation, and if such intimations are embodied in the history of the country and the times, it is right and just that their own declarations and constructions should go out with them. I may here incorporate an extract I find in a paper devoted to Mr. Blaine, which has been taken in my family much longer than Mr. Blaine's " Twenty Years in Congress," and though in political antagonism, must have some magic excellence to sustain such endurance, in such vicissitudes and contra- rieties. I do not know the politics of the paper from which the ex- tract was copied : DAVIS, TOOMBS, AND HUNTER — POLITICAL REMINISCENCES WHICH SEEM DESIGNED TO HAVE NO MORAL. " In the year 1860, Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, Robert Toombs, of Georgia, and R. M. T. Hunter, of Virginia, were members of the United States Senate, and not only its three most influential members, but eminent Southern leaders. Each represented a State which claimed and exercised a weighty influence in the national council, and as they belonged to the then dominant party and were champions of the theories that rested on slavery they possessed an authority which, in the present changed condition of things, it is difficult to comprehend. The political sky wore a troubled look in the spring of 1860. The John Brown raid at Harper's Ferry had recently taken place, showing what daring and desperate measures abolitionism was capable of. Kansas, after a fierce struggle, had been lost to the South ; the grow- 71 ing Republican party was preparing for the Chicago Convention that nominated Abraham Lincoln ; there were grave divisions in the Dem- ocratic party that had ruled the country for nearly fifty years, and to complicate things there was a strong native American element in the Southern States which refused to ally itself with the Southern Democ- racy in defense of the extreme position which the latter claimed was necessary for the maintenance of Southern institutions and interests. Congress was still in session, and it was observed that Davis, Toombs and Hunter were frequently sitting together in the Senate, as if in con- sultation. These consultations usually took place at the desk of the Senator from Mississippi, and the fact was remarked then as proof of the clearer perspicacity, stronger will and superior ability of the man who was destined afterwards to become chief of the then only dreamed of Southern Confederacy. These three men are still living. It is strange that it should be so, but there are many strange things con- nected with the tremendous drama in which they played so conspicuous a part. Their experimental confederacy was born, lived and perished so long ago that the youth of to-day know nothing of it except what they read of in books. The South has passed through the blood and agony of a conflict which left the flower of its population beneath the sod, and scarred its mountains, valleys, and forests with the tracks of plowing missiles. Abolitionism had its way, slavery was overthrown, and ruin ran riot over the Southern land till there was little left to de- stroy. Yet the three Senators of 1860, from Mississippi, Georgia, and Virginia, have survived all the havoc, and are still above the turf be- neath which all their prominent contemporaries lie buried. Their old abolition enemies are gone. Garrison, Greeley, Chase, and Gidclings passed away long ago. Even Wendell Phillips is dead. Lincoln, the first Republican President, has been in his bloody tomb these nineteen years. The great Douglas sleeps in Illinois soil, and trees twenty-two years old grow over his grave. His Presidential competitors in the memorable campaign of 1860 — Breckenridge and John Bell — are asleep, too, each in the soil of his native State. All the members of the first Republican Cabinet are gone but one — Simon Cameron — and Simon Cameron was a comparatively obscure man in the Spring of 1860. " The Mississippi Senator of 1860 is now seventy-six years old ; the Georgia Senator is seventy-four ; the Virginia Senator is seventy-five. 72 They are not very old men, yet there are not three other living men in the world who were actors in a great historical drama who have served as pall-bearers to such a procession or eminent fellow-players." — St. Louis Republican. From their respective ages it will soon make little difference what have been the disunions and successes of each. Each seems in digni- fied retirement, though there is not an office in the gift of their States that would not court their acceptance if desirable to them and suitable to their elevation. I rejoice to notice that Mr. Toombs has become a Union man in the highest acceptation and acceptability of the term, with the Methodist Episcopal Church, the church of my father and my mother, which has " landed many thousands and can land as many more " from these low grounds of bickering and contention about the comparative tem- porary trifles and baubles of this world, at best perishing in the using, to those celestial plains where " the wicked cease from troubling and the weary soul is forever at rest." " Servant of God, well done ; Rest from thy loved employ ; The battle fought, the victory won, Enter thy Master's joy. " The pains of death are past, Labor and sorrow cease, And life's long warfare closed at last, His soul is found in peace. "Soldier of Christ, well done, Praise be thy new employ, And while eternal ages run Rest in thy Saviour's joy." As I am writing not only " currente calamo," but animo, or what- ever comes in my mind, it does thus come over me to refer most re- spectfully and tenderly to an incident I find in point from " The Civil War in America," by John W. Draper, M. D., LL. D. Vol., II, page 38, somewhat astounding and for solemn consideration : "As is not unfrequently observed of Western men, there were mys- terious traits of superstition in his character. Referring to Mr. Lin- coln, a friend once inquired the deep depression under which he seemed to be suffering. " I have seen this evening again," he replied, u what I once saw before on the evening of my nomination at Chicago. As I stood before a mirror there were two images of myself, a bright one in front, and one that was very pallid standing behind. It completely unnerved me. The bright one I know is my past ; the pale one my coming life," and feeling that there is no armor against destiny, he added : " I do not thiuk I shall live to see the end of my term. I try to shake off the vision, but it still keeps haunting me." How different from the apparition of wrestling Jacob : Come, O Thou traveller unknown, Whom still I hold but cannot see, My company has gone before, And I am left alone with Thee ; But who, I ask Thee, who art Thou ? Tell me Thy name, and tell me now. In vain Thou strugglest to get free, I never will unloose my hold ; Art thou the man who died for me ? The secret of Thy love untold ; Wrestling, I will not let Thee go, Til I Thy name, Thy nature know. With Thee all night I mean to stay, And wrestle till the break of day. I repeat, I make this reference with tenderness and sympathy, and for the most sacred benefit, as showing the vanity of all sublunary at- tainments, when even a nomination for the highest and most honorable position in the gift of amongst the highest kingdoms or municipalities of the earth is encumbered and depressed by such depressing admoni- tions, who covets the prize with such alarming appendages? Well did Mr. Jefferson describe the Presidency as " the abode of shabby splen- dor and splendid misery." And how should such reflections and con- comitants cast oil on the troubled waters and healing balm on the lacerating wounds of party acerbities and invectives. Well may we feel and apostrophise : Far more true peace the great Marcellus feels Than Csesar with a Senate at his heels. But as I started out only in a frail bark, feebly manned, with no rod, or compass or chart beyond a few pages of Progress, I have been drifting with corresponding uncertainty, subject to the winds and waves that may happen to beat upon me, and thus by an ungov- ernable cyclone, or really three of them, beaten out of my appropriate channel by a desire to present full justice to three distinguished indi- viduals so prominently exhibited by Mr. Blaine. These three forces different from those in mechanics previously alluded to, neither keep- ing a body still nor propelling in a direction different from either, came upon me in one strong united current, all in the same direction, com- manding the admiration of the elevated and the respect of all appre- ciative of fearless and independent views and feelings, though in a direction certainly different from their own. THE REMINISCENCES BEGUN PRIOR TO THE NOMINATION OF MR. BLAINE. Nothing less prominent could have so veered me out of my more usual avocations and employments among pleas, pleadings, joinders, rejoinders, misjoinders, mis-pleadings, non sequitur, etc. After getting through at least the mispleadings, non sequitur, etc., as applied to Gen- eral Lee, my mind very naturally inclined to others in similarly ani- madversion and criticism. If I have not succeeded in any vindication (not cared for by them) before an impartial tribunal of the world, or if I have not succeeded in my only design to present the viewing from a different standpoint, it must be attributable to the imperfections of their own expositions I attempted to present faithfully from the records, or because of obtuseness or incorrigibility of the human mind in reject- ing all not in consonance with their own preconceived predilections and determined dogmatism. But, as I stated, most of these things are of the dead past, not worthy of revision or explanation except that the future reader of past history may find the views and feelings of all ac- cused and accusing before the tribunal of the civilized world. My cry then is not " Watchman, what of the night f" but " what of the fu- ture f I really do not see much otherwise of practical importance. In reverting to Mr. Blaine's political manifestations I fear unjust im- putation of intention to interfere in the slightest degree with his present aspirations, these ebullitions having been commenced prior to his nomi- nation or letter of acceptance and promulgation of political sentiments. These topics affect the whole country and every party organization, 75 and should be discussed with corresponding gravity and concern. The tariff, as such, should scarcely be a party measure, some being indis- pensable. The question is how far in raising even the necessary reve- nue of the government there should be discriminations favorable to one to the detriment of the other. I have accorded to Mr. Blaine the highest ability and ingenuity in advocacy of his one side. There may be two weaker sides, but in combination of both a preponderating mo- mentum may be secured. He has certainly thrown out one strong card and very hard to beat. I have not thrown a card or played at any game, certainly not since that " 30th of August, 1838," but I retain some recollection or subsequent information of the expression, "See you and some better." This may not be in either one, but by combi- nation of both, and thus a fair game of two separately weaker ones against one alone stronger than either. Enlarged statemanship, espe- cially for the Presidency, should command the united consideration of every department. Now I suppose we must admit Mr. Blaine's conclusions in the pre- mises occupied by him. And still all that glitters is not always gold. I do not read that even all the tariff communities are exempt from mercantile or manufacturing failures. But we may very well assume that in the legislation imposing high duties on competing fabrics of other countries may beneficially favor those particular internal opera- tions and communities. I do not presume to speak knowingly, my associations and investi- gations having been different. Nor am I specially versed or able to enlighten others on the shipping problem. When I am sensible of my ignorance on any subject like the present I generally go, as all should, to the proper fountain of enlightened judgment and experience. SHIPPING. Now I happened to have special and friendly access to just this fa- cility. My inquiry was : " Is the shipping interest really in a lan- guishing condition ?" Now Mr. Blaine or others might require several columns to reply to this simple but important inquiry, and still not as satisfactory and intelligible as one single word from one with clear 76 visioD of the whole land and water also, which one word was "-Bank- rupt." I really understand that the foreign ships for want of other occupation are really doing the American shipping on better terms than the American ships can afford, or they either, if they had any- thing else to do. If I felt particularly interested I should exclaim, Oh, for the magnificent abilities and thundering intonations of Daniel Webster, when free speech so advocated free trade. But the terms free trade are speculative and comparative. No one under proper ex- planation means just that. The government must be supported liber- ally and with full margin. And as to Mr. Clay's idea and advocacy as previously explained in my own hearing as to the helping hand to the infant manufactures of our own country, I am reminded of Mr. Lincoln's illustration in a most important emergency, of the temperance lecturer, worn and wearied by exhausting temperance lectures, and recuperation by adding a little stimulus was suggested, replied: "If they could put in a little unbeknownst to me I don't know that it would hurt me." At all events in that propulsion of a body by the three forces in a direction different from either a just and sensible compro- mise might be reasonably accomplished, and a little protection put in unbeknownst. Now, while I might not claim a full and equal score on behalf of the shipping interest I certainly can reasonably claim some. But I now have a reserve fire, and here the battle is to range more furiously in final termination of the controversy, viz., shipping and agriculture, neither perhaps as important, and certainly not as prosperous, as the other one. But how of the combination, espe- cially when a President must survey the whole ground. Now I may claim some personal advantage, referred to by the editor of Progress, in my personal observation and experience, having referred to the opportunity of visitation to the localities of both Mr. Blaine and Calhoun, and never enjoyed by him. I now refer to the agricultural remote from manufacturing enterprises. Now I can testify that I have seen Mr. Blaine in approximate vicinity when at Yorktown to erect a monument amidst the abomination of desolation. He was transported and landed where the fleets of the world could safely navigate in twenty or thirty feet of sailing water, but where, with some relics of former grandeur and magnificence, only a beggarly account of empty or dilapidated houses met his vision, and fortunately for Ms argument his progress did not extend into the interior, to look 77 in vain for those exhibitions of agricultural success only to be found in the imaginations of abseDt devotees to other objects. I did not then have the opportunity of informing and enforcing that Carter's Grove was in that vicinity ; though on the fertile banks of James River, and thus with exceptional advantages. I hope he will favor me with another opportunity of serving an attachment re- turnable at Carter's Grove, built entirely from English materials, as stated in the map referred to, — I hope to annex, — I can take him a little further, whence I, however, cannot indulge and appropriate the consolation of the individual, a visitor referring to the large landed possession within his vision, and supposed to be ia his ownership » His reply was, " I am not as poor as you think I am ; I don't own these lands." Somewhat from a dry season there is one evidence of accumulation, if resulting from taking in more than goes out — what they take in by purchase more than goes out for sale. In sight I can show him Jamestown, the first landing of the Pilgrims in America, and once the populous capital of the country. BRISCOE G. BALDWIN. It is said, in some of the Congressional debates, some orator, Mr. Clay, I believe, counted his five propositions on his five fingers, some one facetiously remarking his propositions would have been enlarged if he had more fingers. It is interesting to read the interesting ac- count of some hundredth anniversary, and the gay collection of four hundred ladies in one body, and the animating scenes embellished by the Professors and magnates of the Williamsburg College in the im- mediate vicinity, and when amidst the talent and experience of re- nowned orators the Youthful Orator, Briscoe G. Baldwin, then a stu- dent at William and Mary's College, exhibiting such promise of future eminence as thus to merit such selection, sustained by future realiza- tion. He was long a Judge of the Supreme Court of Virginia, the father of the talented Jno. B. Baldwin previously referred to, and the father-in-law of the Alex. H. H. Stuart, also referred to, needing no other reference than the records of the State Legislature, Congress and 78 executive departments of the General Government ; as was previously stated, the " Ultinms Romanorum " of the brilliant Union Galaxy. But as I started to say of the count on the fingers, I believe all the land-owners can now be counted on the fingers of one hand after cut- ting off three, and not sure that of the stately mansions formerly adorn- ing the section all the remaining two fingers would be required in the enumeration. Well, if I do not get on faster I will be subject to the criticism and witticism of the famous John Randolph, applied to the argument of the great Chapman Johnson, " Yesterday, the day before, or the day before that," breaking the chain of argument and increasing the diffi- culty of replying. But this delineation, first of the shipping and then the agricultural interests, is potent or omnipotent in deciding the great triangular game or controversy referred to. Thousands of pages have been exhausted without exhausting or settling the question, and if a thousand more could even afford feeble contribution, then would they be profitably appropriated. The collision of the brilliant intellects in the past, and differing anticipations ot the future, attest and confirm this difficulty. Mr. Blaine, in the dazzling and blinding influence of interested po- sition, regards the solution easy. But we must try to secure the deci- sion of a disinterested Judge, or one regarding the whole country. He might be like the individual who was consulted by the appointing power as to the most suitable occupant for an important appointment. After some reflection he replied that, " Laying aside all personal con- siderations, and regarding only the good of the country, the devil a bit did he know any fittener man than himself." What a great Presiden- tial turmoil and commotion might thus be adjusted by similar applica- tion and reasonable response. But these three great forces, looming up in increased strength and proportions, seem to evade the decision of any one power. The arbi- trament of arms and armies seems inadequate to the desired consumma- tion. Then what is to be done to mollify, if not effectually to quell, this continual and continued agitation ? If the South is inadequate to the contest with their own weapons, it may be best to capture from their adversaries, viz., to reasonable and beneficial extent employ the same, or similar, manufacturing. Deprive the North of the Southern market, confine foreign factories to their own internal demand, then 7!J may the North adopt the exclamation of the Victorious Commander, " One more such victory and we are undone." Then these important questions should not be considered or decided in any hasty controver- sial, dictatorial, domineering, self-aggrandizing spirit or exaction. The three forces in Government and Mechanics must be so applied as to propel the body different from either, regarding the rights and interests of the whole. Now, if all can come together as a band of brothers, and brotherly justice and forbearance, and thus sweeten the acerbity of this fountain of bitterness, or cupidity, what a brilliant future opens to captivated perspective. At peace with the world, at peace with each other, each claiming no advantages unless from meritorious application and ascend- ency, from cultivation of the common gifts of a common inheritance, imagination expires in such prospect. INJUSTICE TO THE DEAD. I have thus, to the best of my ability and disposition to respond to any reasonable solicitation, endeavored to discuss these important sub- jects from all the different standpoints I have occupied ; of course thus in conflict with some and hesitation of others, but in a manner just and fair to all, a satisfactory solution justifying the highest efforts of all patriotic citizens in some spirit of some compromise and concession, and even sacrifice on the altar of national peace and individual harmony, or at least toleration, in accomplishment of the highest objects within the contemplation and consideration of all lovers of justice and ele- vated propriety. After so many angry discussions and bloody wars per- fect success cannot at once be reasonably expected ; but even a little oil on the troubled waves may at least assuage the curling white caps and hush into silence any boisterous exhibitions, "in charity to all and malice towards none," though of impossibility of escape from criticism and disparagement from the different sections and unworthy prejudices of the unappreciative. Some may complain of my compli- mentary allusions to my opponents, or in different circumstances and relations, according to Mr. Lincoln, in those relations the appellation 80 of " good heart " not appreciating the auxiliary connection with sweet- heart. The elevated will rise above such considerations or merge them in the current of good objects and purposes. Nor have I designed an offensive expression or appellative to any one, with only reasonable comment and defence in any accusation or denunciation of others, with- out the full and proper explanation even a criminal would be entitled to. I hope the simple presentation of facts and dates in connection with Gen. Lee will induce withdrawal of injustice to the dead, and not reopen wounds or graves which should secure effective winding sheets in which to bury forever all asperity or invective. I have reason to know that my allusions to Mr. Blaine's book have excited in the highest circles a desire for its procurement, and amongst those not likely to be in unison or corroboration with its presentations and con- clusions. I hope the efforts ot my friends of the Progress to elicit something in which so much interest has been expressed for the gratification of their subscribers, will be rewarded by increase of subscription list and general appreciation of such efforts, though in this particular instance incommensurate with their merits, and also gratify Mr. Blaine by op- portunity of doing justice or removing injustice from the memory or acts of the illustrious dead. I am too far removed from the bickering and strife of professional invective or persecution to desire any materials for its resumption, rarely entering a court house or engaging in any discussions at the bar, unless forced by some defence against infraction of propriety. I was once met on Walnut street by Judge Sharswood with the unexpected remark : " Mr. Booth, I understand you made the boldest speech ever made in Philadelphia. Mr. Sellers says so." Resulting in a with- drawal, it thus comes under consideration. A cavorting attorney for plaintiff with somewhat supercilious confidence and defiance opened with the declaration, " Negotiable notes in the hands of innocent third parties for valuable consideration claim immediate judgment," re- suming his seat with an air of confident demand and success, and really enough reason to jnstify it on such basis no one could contest, the pre- mises being admitted. Though not apparent on the face, I could only take the ground they were not innocent holders ; so far from it, in any court in which I had practiced they would get a bench warrant of arrest on the spot for hold- 81 ing them at all ; and turning to the attorney continued, that in such court any attorney practising under masked batteries and poisoned wea- pons would be lucky if it was not his last battle ; thus arguing until that same attorney arose, with change of demeanor at least, with ap- plication to withdraw the case, or at least to amend, which was at first refused by associate counsel, but accorded from conviction that from what appeared in the case strict law required judgment for the plain- tiff; but the amendment or prosecution never insisted on till other ad- justment. Now, if with the materials, dates, etc., with simple appeal to reason and justice, I cannot secure a voluntary withdrawal of these charges against General Lee, my conclusion would be, " Ephraim is joined to his idols," and argue the question of joinders, misjoinders, mispleadings, non sequitur, etc., before a more disinterested tribunal, waiving, however, any arrest or loss of license for fighting under masked batteries and poisoned weapons in the blinding infatuation of political prejudices and unjust contortions. Well, I have been trying to stop for some time, and as Mr. Blaine seems to have a double-bar- relled artillery, or two volumes, on hand — one not yet discharged — it it may be best to reserve some ammunition ; forewarned, forearmed ; but really hoping for amicable, elevated, honorable magnanimity in acknowledgment of mistake and reparation for its conclusions, and mutually allow drawn game in all of acrimony, mistake, or miscon- ception. It is, however, really to be hoped that the presentations from differ- ent higher standpoints, or familiarity with the situation as to necessi- ties of freedom, the operations of tariff, justice of compromise, and concessions in the different phases of duties, etc., as they may affect manufactures, commerce and agriculture, may conduce to equality, harmony and general prosperity of all. Having, at least for the present, disposed of the chief subjects of response, or incidents suggested by your application, it may be proper and appropriate to amplify and elucidate some of the topics iucident- ally referred to, and hastily and imperfectly on account of the limited anticipated dimensions of the limits of presentation. I don't know that, in connection with the great men of the present day, I can more appropriately enlarge previous allusions in a more interesting manner than to revert to that illustrious Virginia ( invention hastily referred to, one of the last luminaries expiring only in the last few years. THE VIRGINIA CONVENTION. As previously stated, the very last was the Hon. Mark Alexander, perhaps sufficiently referred to in such connection, though worthy of all that can be said in merited exaltation. Though not one of the original members now remain, it is a great consolation that some new editions — I will not say revised and cor- rected, for that was not necessary — but noble sons and grandsons of noble sires illumine almost every section of the glorious old Common- wealth, and at this very time the Congress of the United States. Mr. Alexander married a daughter of Governor Turner, of North Carolina, and thus distinguished representatives, not only of two illustrious families, but of two corresponding Commonwealths, with descendants and collaterals adorning both States. Hugh Blair Grigsby, next to the last of these expiring lights, was representative of the ancient ex- alted literature of Williamsburg in the prosperous days of that re- nowned college. He married a Carrington, leaving a promising rep- resentative ; and in referring to the Carrington family, I would only repeat all said about the Lees, Pages, Carters, Bur wells, Harrisons, Wickhams, Nelsons, Bradfutes, and a host of other worthies. These Carrington descendants embrace a similar galaxy in Watkins, Vena- bles, Cabells, Flournoys, Alexanders, Braces, Coleman, Edmunds, and I may just say balance of the worthy and elevated. Some have passed over the flood and some are passing still. Though the descendants and collaterals of these ancient worthies are so intelligent and numerous, I doubt whether all are even aware of such lineage as in personal visit to this convention, and examination of subsequent history, I find from more recent records or investigations, there are many who had passed from my own recollection, and it may be interesting to Virginians at least, to publish the names of those members embracing so many of national importance in two former Presidents, Chief Justice and other celebrities too tedious for enumera- tion, and thus among the whole catalogue. I must here make some special reference to the clerk of that convention. Continuing as clerk 82 83 to the Legislature for many years, and thus associate of myself and very many in the State. I refer to George W. Munford, Esq. The earth might be ransacked without finding his superior in purity, ele- vation and excellence, and peculiarly competent for such position or any other of fidelity and trust. A LIST OF THE DELEGATES TO THE CONVENTION. District of Amelia, Chesterfield, Cumberland, Nottoway, Powhatan and Town of Petersburg. — John W. Jones of Chesterfield, Benjamin W. Leigh of Chesterfield, Samuel Taylor of Chesterfield, William B. Giles (Gov.) of Amelia. District of Brunswick, Dinwiddie, Lunenburg and Mecklenburg. — Wm. H. Brodnax of Dinwiddie, George C. Dromgoole of Brunswick, Mark Alexander of Mecklenburg, Wm. O. Goode of Mecklenburg. District of City of Williamsburg, Charles City, Elizabeth City, James City, City of Richmond, Henrico, New Kent, Warwick and York.— J. Marshall (C. J. U. S.) of Richmond City, John Tyler of Charles City, Philip N. Nicholas of Richmond City, John B. Clop- ton of New Kent. District of Shenandoah and Rockingham. — Peachy Harrison of Rockingham, Jacob Williamson of Rockingham, William Anderson of Shenandoah, Samuel Coffman of Shenandoah. District of Augusta, Rockbridge and Pendleton. — Briscoe G. Bald- win of Augusta, Chapman Johnson of Augusta, William M'Coy of Pendleton, Samuel M. D. Moore of Rockbridge. District of Monroe, Bath, Greenbrier, Botetourt, Allegheny, Poca- hontas and Nicholas. — Andrew Beirne of Monroe, William Smith of Greenbrier, Fleming B. Miller of Botetourt, John Baxter of Poca- hontas. District of Sussex, Surrey, Southampton, Isle of Wight, Prince George and Greenville. — John Y. Mason of Southampton, James Treg- vant of Southampton, Augustine Claiborne of Greenville, John Ur- quhart of Southampton. 84 District ot Charlotte, Halifax and Prince Edward. — John Randolph of Charlotte, William Leigh of Halifax, Richard Logan of Halifax, Richard N. Venable of Prince Edward. District of Spottsylvania, Louisa, Orange and Madison. — James Madison (Ex-P.) of Orange, Philip P. Barbour of Louisa, David Watson of Louisa, Robert Stanard of Spottsylvania. District of Loudoun and Fairfax. — James Monroe (Ex-P.) of Lou- doun, Charles F. Mercer of Loudoun, William H. Fitzhugh of Fair- fax, Richard H. Henderson of Loudoun. District of Frederick and Jefferson. — John R. Cooke of Frederick, Alfred H. Powell of Frederick, Hierome L. Opie of Jefferson, Thos. Griggs, Jr., of Jefferson. District of Hampshire, Hardy, Berkeley and Morgan. — William Naylor of Hampshire, William Donaldson of Hampshire, Elisha Boyd of Berkeley, Philip C. Pendleton of Berkeley. District of Washington, Lee, Scott, Bussell and Tazewell. — John B. George of Tazewell, Andrew M'Millan of Lee, Edward Campbell of Washington, William Byars of Washington. District of King William, King and Queen, Essex, Caroline and Hanover. — John Roane of King William, William P. Taylor of Caro- line, Richard Morris of Hanover, James M. Garret of Essex. Distsict of Wythe, Montgomery, Grayson and Giles. — Gordon Cloyd of Montgomery, Henley Chapman of Giles, James P. Matthews of Wythe, William Oglasby of Grayson. District of Kanawha, Mason, Cabell, Randolph, Lewis, Harrison, Wood and Logan. — Edwin S. Duncan of Harrison, John Laidley of Cabell, Lewis Summers of Kanawha, Adam See of Randolph. District of Ohio, Tyler, Brooke, Monongalia and Preston. — Philip Doddridge of Brooke, Charles S. Morgan of Monongalia, Alexander Campbell of Brooke, Eugenius M. Wilson of Monongalia. District of Fauquier and Culpepper. — John S. Barbour of Culpep- per John Scott of Fauquier, John Macrae of Fauquier, John W. Green of Culpepper. 85 District of Norfolk, Princess Anne, Nanesmond and Borough of Norfolk. — Littleton W. Tazewell of Norfolk Borough, Joseph Prentis of Nanesmond, Robert B. Taylor of Norfolk Borough, George Loyall of Norfolk Borough. District of Campbell, Buckingham and Bedford. — William Campbell of Bedford, Samuel Clayton of Campbell, Callohill Mennis of Bedford, James Saunders of Campbell. District of Franklin, Patrick, Henry and Pittsylvania. — George Townes of Pittsylvania, Benj. W. S. Cabell of Pittsylvania, Joseph Martin of Henry, Archibald Stuart, Jr., of Patrick. District of Albemarle, Amherst, Nelson, Fluvanna and Gooch- land. — James Pleasants of Goochland, William F. Gordon of Al- bemarle, Lucas P. Thompson of Amherst, Thomas Massie, Jr., of Nelson. District of King George, Westmoreland, Lancaster, Northumberland, Richmond, Stafford and Prince William. — William A. G. Dade of Prince William, Ellyson Currie of Lancaster, John Taliaferro of King George, Fleming Bates of Northumberland. District of Matthews, Middlesex, Accomack, Northampton and Gloucester. — Thos. R. Joynes of Accomack, Thomas M. Bayley of Accomack, Calvin H. Reid of Northampton, Abel P. Upshur of Northampton. SOME OTHERS. It had been my intention in any event to refer further to others known to me, and particularly to those connected with same or adja- cent districts — of those in adjacent districts of Dinwiddie, Mecklen- burg, etc. I have already referred, with appendix, particularly to Hon. Mark Alexander and Gen. Wm. H. Brodnax. The other two were General George Dromgoole and Hon. Wm. 0. Goode. Both of these talented gentlemen were long in Congress, and perhaps a part of Mr. Blaine's " twenty years," or more likely preceding them ; certainly in more peaceful, if not better times. Mr. Goode might 86 have been specially regarded a ladies' man, handsome, polished and of unexceptionable general deportment; twice married and leaving worthy descendants. General Dromgoole never married, and of course, dying unhappily ; but represented by most excellent and elevated collaterals. Another member of great purity and moral and intellectual prominence, and as long in the Councils of Virginia, I believe, as Mr. Blaine was in Congress, was the Hon. Benj. W. S. Cabell, of Danville, to whom I had intended to refer, not as a native himself, but there in my own county finding his " better-half," from the elevated circles of native-born citizens and corresponding descend- ants and collaterals still among my valued friends and Virginia neighbors. He was the father of the present distinguished representa- tive of the Danville District in Congress, and according to General Jackson's reference to Jas M. Mason, inheriting the merit of the father. Long may such representatives adorn the Halls of Congress and other posts of honor. The name of John S. Barbour appears amongst these honored and honoring members of this ancient and renowned Convention. It revives the most pleasing reminiscences and endearing associations that the same name appears in the catalogue of my own Legislative associates and also on the rolls of the present members of the present Congress of the United States; President of Railroad and Chairman of most important committees in his and my native State. I need scarcely denominate him a worthy son of that same worthy sire en- rolled in the pages of that great Convention. I might, perhaps, refer to others, but have to limit myself to bounds suggested by some special association. The names of those honored worthies will suggest others of the present generation following in their illustrious footsteps and distinction. In that same Danville re- presentation occur the names of Townes, Martin and Stuart, one my own esteemed associate ; others suggestive of State, United States and Presidential Cabinet preferment, and gallantry, and bravery on the field of battle, and must thus assume some trammels or limits, or make this only a history of the ancient Virginia Convention, with sufficient materials, but not altogether suitable to any present mono- poly, and pass to other considerations. Extracts from the speeches of some of these remarkable men will appear in subsequent pro- ceedings. 87 An old lawyer, code-maker, etc., in writing out his reminiscences and experiences, must include some of his speeches, etc. I never made such speeches from writing or special notes except of authorities, or perhaps, points in opponents' argument. There was some warning in the recollection that an attorney once made such written argument, based chiefly on a certain deposition, which happened to be ruled out in the commencement. He could proceed but a short time before running into the deposi- tion so as to be stopped by the court. This was repeatedly repeated till he had to ask the court to let him make his speech, and then credit or subtract all pertaining to the deposition. Another similar instance of a bashful young gentleman who objected to a seat by a young lady, that he had nothing to say to her. His friend endeavored to obviate this by giving him a memorandum of questions, answers, etc., suggesting customary conversation, which he could put in his hat so as to see it without being observed. He made out to propose the first question, but the answer, was different from expectation, and he could only examine his memorandum with the remark, u No, madame, you are wrong," with consequent confusion. The nearest I have is an argument in print, exciting the commendation of distinguished mem- bers of Congress, Judges, Lawyers, etc., as " strong/' " striking," "powerful," converting a case "which had excited odium, and oppo- sition, into just appreciation, and advocacy still undecided." To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States in Congress assembled, and any Committee thereof: A former presentation of the case of George Chorpenning, Esq., re- spectfully exhibited that as early as 1851, when the country was com- paratively a wilderness, infested by Indians, robbers, and murderers, he was a mail contractor in California, Utah, &c; that he was not only thus the pioneer of overland mail communication, but in person carried the first United States mail that ever crossed the Sierra Nevada Mountains; that he staked off, on the 22d of May, 1851, the first piece of land and made the first settlement ever made within the limits of the State of Nevada ; that he opened, graded, and bridged, at his own expense, the new road south of the Humboldt river, whereby the 88 distance from Salt Lake to Carson Valley was shortened some one hundred and fifty miles ; that he built a station every twenty to forty miles along said line, before any white man had ever lived upon it, and thus brought settlers in, improving the lands and converting the barren wilderness into fertile, productive plains — the preparations alone involving an expenditure of near $300,000, and increasing the population and value of the property and income of the United States beyond any accurate computation. This retrospect is only now presented as prelude to some claim on the Government for some commensurate pecuniary compensation for actual services ; the sacrifices otherwise incurred defying all compu- tation. The great difficulty of convincing others of these hardships and ex- penditures caused frequent collisions with the Government in settle- ments, and the absence of sufficient proof at the time compelled submission in silence to much unintentional and misunderstood injus- tice, rather than abandon the investment^ to conduct these onerous and costly operations. In a decision made then by Postmaster-General Brown, the principle adopted so ruinous to your petitioner, was repudiated by a subsequent President and United States Attorney-General; but three successive Postmasters-General refused to reopen the settlements on the ground that they were " res adjudicata" and not proper subjects for subse- quent adjustment, and thus loss and injustice were sustained. In the settlement, which is the foundation and subject of the present case, it is sincerely believed that inadequate compensation has been awarded, from the difficulty of establishing such claims by adequate legal proof, though also conceding the conscientious convictions of the tribunal thus awarding. No just and legal claim is waived the circumstances may allow. It is not the purpose at present to urge the payment of more than the principal and interest of the award, fully and justly made on exam- ination of documents, &c, too voluminous for present presentation, one in print, embracing one hundred and fourteen pages, and another in manuscript of forty-four pages, but will only annex the conclusions and award. EXTRACT. Conclusion op the Findings of the Postmaster-General. Whereupon I, John A. J. Cresswell, Postmaster-General of the United States, do hereby certify, that in performance of the duty en- joined upon me by the joint resolution of Congress, approved July 15th, 1870, I have investigated and adjusted the claims of George Chorpenning, under the first section of an act for his relief, approved March 3d, 1857, on the basis of compensation allowed by said act for the regular service, and the claim growing out of the curtailment and annulment of his contract on route No. 12,801, on the basis of his agreement with the Postmaster-General for the service ; and that I do hereby award and determine that there is due and owing to said George Chorpenning, from the United States, for and in full satisfac- tion and discharge of said claims, the sum of four hundred and forty- three thousand and ten dollars and sixty cents ($443,010.60). As witness my hand and the seal of the Post-Office Department, this twenty-third day of December, 1870. [seal] JOHN A. J. CRESSWELL, Postmaster- General. Post-Office Department, Washington, D. C, June 29th, 1874. I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the award made by the Postmaster-General on the 23d of December, 1870, and of the preamble thereto, in the matter of the claim of George Chorpenning, as the same appears of record in the Post-Office Department. In Witness Whereof, I have hereto set my hand and caused the seal 89 90 of the Post-Office Department to be hereto affixed, at the General Post- Office in the city of Washington on this twenty-ninth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventy- four. [seal] JOHN A. J. CRESSWELL, Postmaster- General. Though seeming complete and conclusive, I preferred to elicit more recent conclusions by responses to direct communications, as seen by replies. Office of the Postmaster-General, Washington, D. C, Dec. 19th, 1877. Edwin G. Booth, Esq., My Dear Sir : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 14th instant, concerning the Chorpenning claim. My connection with that case was purely official. By joint resolu- tion of Congress both branches of Chorpenning's claim were referred to'fme, as Postmaster-General, with special directions as to their adjust- ment. I discharged my duty conscientiously in the settlement of a controversy between the Government of the United States and a citizen, in the manner and upon the terms prescribed by Congress and made a written report, giving my reasons at length for my action on every point. The amount found to be due to the claimant was large, but I sincerely believe it to be only what the law and justice required. Even if the law under which I acted be repealed, I furthermore believe that upon any method of settlement that could rightfully be adopted, no fair tribunal could refuse to make an allowance of a very handsome sum in Chorpenning's favor. My former relations to the case placed an absolute prohibition upon my acting as counsel, either in the courts or before Congress, in behalf of Chorpenning. No argument of yours has reached me by mail. Very respectfully, yours, JOHN A. J. CRESSWELL. 91 Post-Office Department, Washington, D. C, January 3