Benson J. Lossing, Pictorial Field Book of the Civil War. Volume 1.

[236] appointed by Legislatures, they were chosen by the Governors. Many of these delegates were instructed, either by formal resolutions of the appointing power or by informal expressions of opinion. Much caution was exercised, because there were well-grounded suspicions that the Virginia politicians, who had proposed the Convention, were adroitly playing into the hands of the conspirators. One of the resolutions that accompanied their invitation to a conference declared that the Crittenden Compromise, so modified as to apply to all the territory of the Republic south of latitude 36° 30‘, and to provide that “Slavery of the African race” should be “effectually protected as property therein during the existence of the Territorial government ;” also, to secure to the holders of slaves the right of transit with this property, “between and through the non-slaveholding States and Territories,” constituted a basis of adjustment that would be acceptable to Virginia. This avowal of their demands at the outset was candid, if not modest and conciliatory.

Massachusetts instructed its delegates to confer with the General Government, or with the separate States, or with any association of delegates from such States, and to report to the Legislature. Rhode Island said:--“Agree, if practicable, upon some amicable adjustment of present difficulties, upon the basis and spirit of the National Constitution.”

Willard's Hall.

New York wished it not to be understood that, in acceding to the request of Virginia, it approved of Virginia's desires, as expressed in the resolutions of its Legislature. It was willing to do all in its power to bring about an honorable settlement of the national difficulties. New Jersey earnestly