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and of taking such action as, in their judgment, the affairs of the country demand. Without the consent of Governor Hicks neither the Legislature nor an authorized convention can be assembled, and I have no hesitancy in stating that he will never convene either. If Virginia shall withdraw from the Union the people of Maryland will, in the shortest possible period of time, assume the responsibility, assemble in spontaneous convention, and unite their destinies with the Confederate States of the South.

" In conclusion, I would respectfully add that this communication would have been made at an earlier day, but I waited, hoping to receive an answer from Governor Hicks before I laid before your body the result of my mission."

SYMPATHETIC RESOLUTIONS.

While Mr. Wright was in Baltimore, on his way to Annapolis, the celebrated convention was held here, over which Hon. Robert M. McLane presided, and which passed resolutions of sympathy with the South, reserving any suggestion for definite action until Virginia had acted. These resolutions, which have become historic, are as follows:

" Whereas, It is the opinion of this meeting that in the present alarming crisis in the history of our country it is desireable that the State of Maryland should be represented by judicious, intelligent and patriotic agents, fully authorized to confer and act with our sis- ter States of the South, and particularly with the State of Virginia; and,

" Whereas, Such authority can be conferred solely by a conven- tion of the people of the State; and,

" Whereas, In the opinion of the meeting, the Legislature not being in session, a full and fair expression of the popular will is most likely to be heard by a convention called by a recommendation of the Executive; and,

" Whereas, It is alleged that the Governor now has it in contem- plation to recommend by proclamation such a movement in the event of a failure by the Peace Conference and Congress to effect any sat- isfactory solution of the vexed question now agitating the country ; be it, therefore,

"Resolved, That we shall approve such proceedings on the part of the Governor and add the voice of this convention to urge the voters of this State to regard such proclamation. And, with a view