William Schouler, A history of Massachusetts in the Civil War: Volume 1

The resolutions, sixteen in number, were reported by Mr. Avery, of Braintree. They were a general indictment against the national Administration, and its prominent measures in carrying on the war. The fifteenth declared,—

That we most earnestly desire peace, on such terms as would be consistent with the honor of our nation, and secure a permanent union of the States.

The Republican Convention met at Worcester, on the 24th of September. James H. Duncan, of Haverhill, formerly a member of Congress, was chosen temporary chairman, and Thomas D. Eliot, member of Congress from the New-Bedford district, was elected permanent president. The address of Mr. Eliot on taking the chair was an able and eloquent defence of the policy pursued by the national and State Administrations in carrying on the war. It was the duty of the nation to use every power within its grasp to put down the Rebellion, and to fight the rebel forces until they laid down their arms. He sketched the progress of the Union forces from the beginning of the war up to this time; showing that, although we had met with reverses, yet we had steadily and successfully made progress, which, in the end, was sure to conquer the Confederate power.

A State ticket, with John A. Andrew at its head, was nominated by acclamation for re-election, and with entire unanimity.

Speeches were also made by Alfred Macy, of Nantucket; A. H. Bullock, of Worcester; Richard H. Dana, Jr., of Cambridge; Henry Wilson, United-States Senator; and ex-Governor George S. Boutwell, who reported a series of admirable resolutions, which were adopted by the convention. The speeches and resolutions breathed but one sentiment, and expressed but one purpose, which was to sustain the national and State Governments, and to carry on the war with undiminished vigor until peace was conquered, and human slavery for ever rooted out of the land.