In the midst of a large class of public men who had in the mean time become conspicuous for talents and services of various descriptions, it is no matter of surprise that the people of the United States should entertain a diversity of opinions in regard to the most suitable individual to fill a station which had hitherto been occupied by men whose virtues and whose patriotism had shed the brightest lustre on the American name and character throughout the world.  Candidates for the presidency were nominated in various sections of the Union.  The eastern States turned their eyes instinctively towards John Quincy Adams, as one, among all the eminent competitors, the most fitted, by character and services, for the office of President of the United States.  The members of the Legislature of Maine resolved—­

“That the splendid talents and incorruptible integrity of John Quincy Adams, his republican habits and principles, distinguished public services, and extensive knowledge of, and devoted attachment to, the vital interests of the country, justly entitle him to the first honors in the gift of an enlightened and grateful people.”

The republican members of the Massachusetts Legislature adopted the following resolutions:—­

“Resolved, That the ability, experience, integrity and patriotism of John Quincy Adams; his manly efforts to defend the principles of that government under which, in God’s providence, we hope to die; his unshaken fortitude and resolution in all political exigencies; his long, faithful, and valuable services, under the patronage of all the Presidents of the United States, present him to the people of this nation, as a man eminently qualified to subserve the best interests of his country, and as a statesman without reproach.

“Resolved, That a man who has given such continued and indubitable pledges of his patriotism and capacity, may be safely placed at the head of this nation.  Every impulse of his heart, and every dictate of his mind, must unite promptly in the support of the interests, the honor, and the liberty of his country.

“Resolved, That John Quincy Adams is hereby recommended by us to the people of the United States, as the most suitable candidate for the office of President, at the approaching election.”

A meeting of the citizens of Rhode Island passed the following among other resolutions:—­

“Resolved, That, although we duly acknowledge the talents and public services of all the candidates for the presidency, we have the fullest confidence in the acknowledged ability, integrity and experience of John Quincy Adams, the accomplished scholar, the true republican, the enlightened statesman, and the honest man; and we are desirous that his merits should be rewarded with the first office in the gift of the people of the United States—­that his future services may continue unto us those blessings which, under the present administration of the General Government, we have so abundantly enjoyed.”