Page:The landmark of freedom.djvu/31

Rh embodiment of the Missouri Compact, or Compromise, the essential conditions of which were the admission of Missouri as a State, without any restriction of slavery; and the prohibition of slavery in all the remaining territory of Louisiana north of 36° 30'. Janus-faced, with one front towards freedom and another towards slavery, this must not be confounded with the simpler proposition of Mr. Taylor, at the last session, to prohibit slavery in all the territory north of 36° 30', including Missouri. The Compromise now presented—following the early lead of Mr. McLane—both recognized and prohibited slavery north of 36° 30'. Here, for the first time, these two opposite principles commingled in one legislative channel; and it is immediately subsequent to this junction that we discern the precise responsibility assumed by different parties. And now observe the indubitable and decisive fact. This bill, thus composed, containing these two elements—this double measure—finally passed the Senate by a test vote of 24 yeas to 20 nays. The yeas embraced every southern Senator, except Nathaniel Macon, of North Carolina, and William Smith, of South Carolina.

Mr. (interrupting). Mr. Gaillard, of South Carolina, voted with Mr. Smith.

Mr. . No, Sir. The Journal, which I now hold in my hand, shows that he voted for the Compromise. I repeat that the yeas, on this vital question, embraced every southern Senator, except Mr.