Public ledger. [volume] (Memphis, Tenn.) 1865-1893, 1872-02-23
Pusnaeity or Henry clay.

l. Some Of the most conspicuous Wings
in congress, becoming discontented with
Mr.. Clay's imperious bearing and his
determination to push extreme measures,
agreed to meet at General SCOTS rooms
at the Hope Club for consultation. Mr.
Clay was not invited 10 attend, nor WINS
he apprised that the meeting was TO be
held; but late in the evening the fact
came to his knowledge. Returning
from whist party at Bodisco's, he
knocked at SCOTS quarters, and was
ushered into the room where the gentle
men were sitting. A hawk in dove
cot could not have created greater con-
sternation. He remained standing, de-
clining a proffered chair. CHANGING
from one part of the room to the other,
glowering at everybody present, he ex-
claimed in q loud voice; Treasonl
treasonl and in the middle of the night.
Play fair, Scott, play fair" And he
stalked away, paying no attention to
the attempts at explanation or the de-
mails that anything secret or unfair was
intended. Subsequently he was per-
suaded that the only object of the meet
ing was to consult upon the situation,
and see if anything could be decided
to promote harmony in the party and
avert the peril impending.
Mr. Clay never forgave the gentlemen
who we're instrumental in procuring the
nomination Of Harrison. He was conf
dent that he could have been elected by
large majority, and always distrusted
the fidelity of such Of his friends as had
acquiesced in the selection of his rival.
He was sore toward Scott, and often
expressed himself in terms of contempt
and derision when the generals name
was mentioned. A card party given by
General Macomb was largely attended
by the most distinguished gentlemen in
Washington. Mr.. Clay came in at a late
hour, leaning on the arm Of Senator
MaRgum. AS he entered the room his
attention was attracted to whist table
that happened to be made up of politi-
clans understood to be especially friend
ly to Webster and Scott. Among them
were Edward Curtis, George Evans and
Ogden Hoffman. Mr. Clay had been
dining with party of friends, and was
not in the most placid frame of mind.
Approaching these gentlemen, he broke
out upon them as follows: You man
ufacturers of public opinion-you
makers Of presidents, who assume
to control all mankind--what mischief
are you now hatching2" He spoke in
loud tone, and was heard all over the
room. General Scott came up at the
moment, and Mr.. Clay turned upon him,
accosting him in sneering and insult
ing tone: "And here's the redoubtable
general himself. He was fool enough to
suppose that he could be made President
of the United States" at the same time
putting his hand not in the most gentle
manner on Scott's shoulder. The gen.
eral, quite perturbed, shrank from the
contact, remarking, You forget that is
my wounded arm" You are rotten
all over" was the reply. Mr.. Mangum
led Mr.. Clay from the room, and there
the affair ended for the time. Some cor
respondence ensued, and serious conse-
quences were apprehended. But friends
interposed, and Mr.. Clay, who was ca
pable of magnanimous concessions when
conscious Of being in the wrong, made
a satisfactory apology" Suggestions
Of the Past, in the GALAXY for March.