Martinsburg gazette. [volume] (Martinsburg, Va. [W. Va.]) 1833-1855, 1836-04-07
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= II 4 G. A z z T = = !.

HENRY CLAY.-We see it stated in some Of
our exchange papers that this distinguished in
dividual, in recent speech In the Senate, de-
clared his intention Of bidding farewell 10 the
councils Of the nation at the close of the present
session of Congress. We were aware Of his ha-
wing gwen some intimation that such was his in
tention, but we had hoped, that he would have
changed his determination, and consented 10 re-
main at his present post for g. few years longer,
or, ii his life and health should be spared him, un-
til the dangers that now threaten the constitu-
ton of the country and the Liberties of the PEG.
pie, shall have passed away. The post which
he at present occupies is one that cannot be a.
bandoned without detrimcnt TO the best inter-
ests OF the country, as the influence which he
carries in the Senate, goes far, very far, in
checking the torrent Of lawless usurpation, that
has its source within the limits of the executive
department, that bids fair TO sweep away
every thing like true republicanism in the ad-
ministration our government and to drive from
the halls of legislation all who shall dare op-
pose Its progress. MIR. Clay has been III the
legislature, at the head of some its chief depart
ments, or as diplomatic agent to foreign coun-
tries, for upwards of quarter Of century, and
1t cannot be said of him, that he has been actua-
ted, during that time, by other motives than a
sincere desire to advance the welfare of the ma
ton, and TO secure to his countrymen a continu-
ance of those blessings, civil and religious, which
strict adherence 10 the principles laid down in
the constitution is calculated 10 bestow. He has
fought boldly and manfully TO preserve that sa-
cred instrument-the constitution of his country,
from being DESTROYED or injured by the vandal
hands into which il has fallen, and he only re-
tires, now, when he can no longer prevent that
for which he has hitherto so successfully exert
his powerful abilities He, ard his cOmpeers,
who Tor the last seven years have so nobly
fought the battles of the constitution, have, thro'
the influence of executive power, which has been
applied with the single view of bringing about
this result, been overpowerd in numbers by
those with whom the barriers of the constitution
are but rope of sand, whenever they stand in
opposition TO the unchastened wishes of the ex-
ecutive, or his parasites; and he retires, unwil-
ling to witness what he cannot preyent-the
prostraton Of the Senate at the footstool of the
President. II is with feelings ofheartfelt regret
that the news ofMr Clay's determination TO re-
sign his seat in the Senate is received by his
friends in different parts Of the country and il is
to be hoped, that he will, at their earnest solicit
tat.o Co. L n.
that body. True it is, there is much to deter
him from remaining where he is-the fatigue
and WEAKNESS attendant upon the duties Of aSen-
ator--thc longing for cessation from long con.
tinued s. severe labor-the heartless defamation
and impudent falsehoods Of partizan politicians,
OF those who cannot emulate him in the humbest
OF his capacities or the least Of his virtues-all
hold out to him inducements for retiring from
the turbulent cares and anxieties of public life;
and enjoying, in the bosom of beloved family,
the happiness of retirement, and the consultations
arising from the consciousness of having faith
fully discharged every trust confided to his care
but. ere he takes that step, ere he concludes 10
give his place TO another, we hope he will take
second thought, that he will listen to tho wishes
OF his friends. and continue to oppose, as he has
done in days that are past, the strides Of exec
utiye power over the rights and privileges of
the people. Should he, however, continue his
determination and retire from the halls of Con
gress at the close of its present session, he will
still command the respect of every candid mind
be of what political party it may, that is capable
OF awarding TO talents, 10 patriotism, to states
manlike qualifications of the highest order, the
consideration which they merit