The new ministry was disposed to be much more peaceful than their predecessors had been, and the negotiations at once began to move more smoothly.

Great care was still necessary to prevent outbreaks on the border, but in October McLeod proved an _alibi_ and was acquitted, and thus the most dangerous element in our relations with England was removed.

Matters were still further improved by the retirement of Mr.Stevenson, whose successor in London was Mr.Everett, eminently conciliatory in disposition and in full sympathy with the Secretary of State.
Mr.Webster was now able to turn his undivided attention to the long-standing boundary question.

His proposition to agree upon a conventional line had been made known by Mr.Fox to his government, and soon afterwards Mr.Everett was informed that Lord Ashburton would be sent to Washington on a special mission.

The selection of an envoy well known for his friendly feeling toward the United States, which was also traditional with the great banking-house of his family, was in itself a pledge of conciliation and good will.