Washington sentinel., 1853-10-19

pernicious counsels, he opposed calm self
reliance, and a courageous purpose, which soon
convinced them of the stern old school in which
he had acquired his knowledge of politics and
of men. It was not to be expected, therefore,
when adversaries like these were baffled and
beaten by the quiet example of a conscientious
and courageous patriot, that they should not
return to the charge on every convenient occa-
sion, and with superadded venom and violence
1t is a coincidence that might be treated upon
with valuable results, that in proportion as the
enemies OF the present administration labor to
depreciate the character of our "new President"
they bewail the decay of free institutions, the
decentralization of the people, and the downfall
of the republic. They only look back upon
the past to mourn that its blessings have not
been continued to the present; they only look
forward to the future as to the tomb of civiliza-
ton and freedom. Theydo not see the stalwart
and progressive population that surrounds them
on every hand; they cannot see the triumphant
march OF American principles and American
prosperity. While, from the bosom Of the
masses one man rises to the highest Office in
the popular gift; while among the same masses
daily evidence Of intellect and of greatness are
developed; while the arts and the Sciences
mechanics and manufactures, flourish apace,
no longer in the laboratories of the few, but
among the selfmade, selfeducated, progress
sive children Of the people; and while peace,
and comfort, and equality, enlighten and enrich
all within our borders, the disappointed politi-
clan, the revengeful party leader sees nothing
but horizon darkened by his own hatred and
prospect as cheerless rs his own blasted
hopes.
We think we have shown how the assaults
of such men upon an independent and right
minded public servant can be analysed and ex-
posed General Pierce assumed Office at a time
and under circumstances highly favorable to
the Cancellation of the corrupt influences that
had SO long kept alive an opposition to demo-
cratic principles; but he preferred the path of
duty to that Of expedency. He now asks to be
tried not by his words, but by his works.
For those malcontents who would obstruct
his pathway and seek to overthrow him before
he has made public his policy, in advance of
almost every opportunity to signalize his prac-
teal devotion to great measures OF govern
ment and to great questions Of international
and domestic interests-for such men he has
nothing but scorn, contempt, and defiance. To
his countrymen he says, if the administration
which bears my name does not justify, by its
deeds, its title to your applause and to the
gratitude of posterity, I will expect your de-
nunciations. If do not vindicate the rights
Of the States against consolidation and fanati-
cism, if I do not protect the public treasury
from spoliation. if / do not administer the laws
faithfully and fearlessly, if the rights Of the
American citizen are not sustained against the
nsolence of foreign governments, however po-
tent, if the interference of monarchical infu-
ences upon this continent is not promptly and
sternly rebuked and repelled, and if the princ-
Piles upon which our free institutions are found
ed are not made more and more acceptable to
the struggling people of neighboring and dis
tant nations-then may the judgment of the
people be proclaimed, and coming generations
be admonished against my example.