and wily politicians of the old world.  How well he maintained the dignity and honor of his government—­how sleepless the vigilance with which he watched the movements on the vast field of political strife—­how prompt to protest against all encroachments—­how skilful in conducting negotiations—­and how active to promote the interests of the Union, wherever his influence could be felt—­the archives of our country will abundantly testify.  It was a fitting and promising commencement of a long public career which has been full of usefulness and of honor.

The administration of John Adams, as President of the United States, was characterized by great prudence and moderation, considering the excited state of the times.  There cannot be a doubt he was anxious to copy the worthy example of his illustrious predecessor, in administering the government on principles of strict impartiality, for the good of the whole people, without respect to conflicting parties.  Immediately on his inauguration, he had an interview with Mr. Jefferson, then Vice-President, and proposed the adoption of steps that would have a tendency to quell the spirit of faction which pervaded the country.  That Mr. Jefferson, on his part, cherished a profound respect for Mr. Adams, his old co-laborer in the cause of American freedom, is evident from his letters and speeches of that day.  In his speech on taking the chair of the Senate, as Vice-President, he expressed himself in the following terms:—­

“I might here proceed, and with the greatest truth, to declare my zealous attachment to the Constitution of the United States; that I consider the union of these States as the first of blessings; and as the first of duties the preservation of that Constitution which secures it; but I suppose these declarations not pertinent to the occasion of entering into an office, whose primary business is merely to preside over the forms of this House; and no one more sincerely prays that no accident may call me to the higher and more important functions, which the Constitution eventually devolves on this office.  These have been justly confided to the eminent character which has preceded me here, whose talents and integrity have been known and revered by me, through a long course of years; have been the foundation of a cordial and uninterrupted friendship between us; and I devoutly pray he may be long preserved for the government, the happiness and the prosperity of our common country.”

The sincere attempts of President Adams to produce harmony of political action among the American people, were unavailing.  The extraordinary events transpiring in Europe, exerted an influence on domestic politics, which could not be neutralized.  “The enemies of France”—­“the friends of England,” or vice versa, were cries which convulsed the nation to its centre.  The entire population was sundered into contending parties.