Page:Confederate Military History - 1899 - Volume 1.djvu/222

190 of Europe, possessed the greatest power to injure her territory and resources, the United States was now threatened with domestic revolt. The Emperor Napoleon, her only ally, was overthrown. The nations of Europe were in consultation at Vienna, engaged in the work of readjusting the relations of the world. If they should decide to hurl against America the powerful combination which had crushed Napoleon, what could avert the destruction of republican institutions? Great Britain, relieved from European war, had sent to America a detachment of Wellington s best troops under the command of his favorite general, and the fall of New Orleans was hourly expected. The illustrious chief magistrate, who had borne so many trials with equanimity, and had conducted the national affairs with such signal firmness and ability, awaiting at this dangerous crisis the visit of the New England commissioners on their cruel and unpatriotic mission, was oppressed with a painful anxiety which he could not conceal.

But his hour of triumph was near. The hand of destiny, which had led America on to greatness through so many periods of difficulty and danger, was outstretched to him. The judicious measures of his administration were reaching the culminating point. The crisis was at hand, and the plot now unfolded like the last act of a drama. Great events jostled each other on the stage. The clouds which had gathered around the head of the hero were suddenly dissolved, while the conspirators and marplots stood confounded. The news came in the form of a climax. New Orleans is saved! &quot;Old Hickory&quot; has routed the veterans of the &quot;Iron Duke!&quot; The war is ended! Peace is made at Ghent! The New England commissioners have returned home! Bonfires, rejoicings, public applause, congratulations from friend and foe now take the place of anxiety, reproaches and threats of disunion. The honor of America has been redeemed. Prosperity returns with peace. New England repents.