The day book. [volume] (Norfolk, Va.) 1857-1867, 1866-09-08
Jefferson Davis.


Mr.. JOHNSON, there has not been day of his
progress during which we have not thought
of the illustrious prisoner, who from his con-
6nement in Fortress Monroe, now watches
the current of passing events. Undoubtedly
some natural bitterness Of feeling must stir
his bosom, as he thinks of bis present coudi-
ton in contrast to what it was a few years
ago.
But, knowing the calm sagacity OF the man.;
his large and philosophical knowledge of
affairs, we make bold to declare the opinion
that he feels deep solicitude in the progress
of events, and is cheere1 with unselfish hopes
at the progress of the country towards pacifi-
cation. This opinion is but another. way of
affirming our faith in the lfberaty of his
views, the generosity Of his temper, and the
largeness of his understanding
But, whatever be the fact-whether we
are right or wrong in this belief-it is beyond
dispute, that he is master of the tender SYM
pathies, the affection, and respect of the peo-
pie over whom he lately presided. At no
time since his release from the cruel treat
ment of his earlier imprisonment has the an
tithesiS between what he is in a worldly point
of view and what he might have been, stood
out in holder relief than now. Had he been
successful he would have been hailed by
Mr., JOHNSON in his grand progress Ia d.
rect ratio to the sharpness with which this
contrast is presented, do orr hearts yearn
towards him, and that too with a tenderness
SO entire as to make MS forget, in our absorb
ing interest in his fate the political aspirations
of which he was once the exponent The old
yexed questions of his capacity for govern
ment, have, i'll many cases, been decided to
his honor, ana in all adjourned by the gene
raj voice to the impair ial criticism of poste-
rity. The noble personal traits which adorr
his oharacter-hs courage, his integrity his
unselfish devotion, his humanity-all force
themselves upon the memory of those whe
once recognized in him the chief magistrate
of their choice
not been more frequently manifested to the
world, it is because the emotions of those who
long for his release, are too profound to find
expression in public utterances--too earnest
for relief in demonstrations of a formal sort:
and withal, perhaps, too polite. 1t is in our
hearts that We feel, and in our closets that
we pray, for his release; and we venture to
affirm, that there is scarcely household in all
this Southern land, in which an invocation
does not go up, night and morning. for his
restoration to health, and the liberal air Of an
unbarred dwelling,
These reflections have been suggested by a
communication in the Southern CLurchulan,
advising that all christians make his case the
subject Of their special mediation We ieel
convinced, as we have before said that this
idea has been universally acted on by those
to whom the plan is submitted But, if by
any strange chance there should be those who
have neglected this duty, let us trust that
they will all, with one consent, men, women,
and little children, this night unite in prayer in
behalf Of JEFFERSON DAVIS He who sent
his Angel of Dehverance to PETER, lying
bound in prison, will in his own good season,
hear our invocation, and release the great
prisoner from his long and sore confinement