The first scene in the first act of a great drama, a mighty tragedy, had begun, and every detail was of absorbing interest to him.
Shepard was forgotten in an instant.
Harry noticed that Mr.Davis never mentioned slavery, a subject which was uppermost in the minds of all, North and South, but he alluded to the possibility of war, and thought the new republic ought to have an army and navy.

The concluding paragraph of his speech, delivered in measured but feeling tones, seemed very solemn and serious to Harry.
"It is joyous in the midst of perilous times," he said, "to look around upon a people united in heart, where one purpose of high resolve animates and actuates the whole; where the sacrifices to be made are not weighed in the balance against honor and right and liberty and equality.
Obstacles may retard, but they cannot long prevent the progress of a movement sanctified in justice and sustained by a virtuous people.
Reverently let us invoke the God of our fathers to guide and protect us in our efforts to perpetuate the principles which by his blessing they were able to vindicate, establish, and transmit to their posterity.
With the continuance of his favor ever gratefully acknowledged we may look hopefully forward to success, to peace and to prosperity." The final words were received with a mighty cheer which rose and swelled thrice, and again.

Jefferson Davis stood calmly through it all, his face expressing no emotion.

The thin lips were pressed together tightly.

The points of his high collar touched his thick, close beard.
He wore a heavy black bow tie and his coat had broad braided lapels.
His hair was thick and slightly long, and his face, though thin, was full of vitality.