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[189] no one could point out any real aggression by the government or any point to be gained by resistance. The leaders had really aimed to break down the administration, but they had excited a public sentiment which they could no longer control, and which was rapidly tending to disunion. Yet disloyal sentiments were, by no means, unanimous in New England. ‘Grand Old John Adams,’ now an octogenarian in retirement, clung fondly to the Union which he had helped to create, and over whose destinies he had presided. Nor was he alone. Other patriots were actively working to stem the tide. Perhaps the action of the legislature of Massachusetts, October 13, 1814, on the resolutions preliminary to summoning the Hartford convention, reflected fairly the public sentiment of the state. The number in favor of the resolutions was about 260, and the number opposed about 90. The minority prepared a protest, severely condemning the course of the majority, which the majority considered disrespectful and declined to admit to record. The minority, then, refused to take further part in the proceedings. Even the majority, though hurried into hasty action, were restrained by that centripetal force which never ceases to operate on all who have ever felt the beneficent influence of American institutions—a sincere love for the Union. When, in their game of bluff, they discovered the weakness of their hand, they showed signs of vacillation—honorable vacillation. Some of their leaders proposed plans which appeared like catching at straws; such as the suggestion to solve the difficulty by Madison's voluntary retirement, etc. When finally the announcement of ‘Peace’ afforded honorable escape from their unfortunate dilemma, New England was wild with joy. In February, 1814, American affairs wore a dark and gloomy aspect, which afflicted the heart of every patriot. Engaged in war with the enemy who, of all the nations
Atlanta, Ga. 1899.
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