Page:The Homes of the New World- Vol. III.djvu/315

Rh from a speech, which is said to have been made by one of the warlike members of the great convention:

“Yes, gentlemen, I protest that when war breaks out I shall be one of the first to run across my cotton field, exclaiming, like General Washington at the battle of Waterloo, ‘A horse! a horse! my kingdom for a horse!’ ”

From the observations which I have heard made, and which I have read in the newspapers on this convention and its consequences, one sees how vigorous and discreet is public opinion, and that it merely requires time.

And probably this declaration of secession on the part of South Carolina will merely be a proof of the internal strength of the Union to hold together, spite of the displeasure of individuals.

Mr. Poinsett's letter to the convention (to which he was summoned, but could not attend) is spoken highly of, as being distinguished in a high degree for its nobility and statesman-like wisdom. It counsels strongly to maintain the Union, and proves that South Carolina is wrong in her assertions.

I have received also a private letter from the noble old statesman, which has pleased me by the invitation which it contained for me again to visit him at his house, “that we might talk over together the present condition and future prospects of the United States.” I should very much like such a conversation with him, but I have not the time to go as far as his hermitage.

Among the topics of conversation of the day is a scandalous paper war, which is being carried on in the New York newspapers between private individuals. One of the principal literary men of the city is involved in the contest, which has reference to the good name and fame of two respectable ladies. The warfare is carried on with great bitterness and unbridled license, and the good and thinking portion of the public look on with annoyance