Among the friends of the outgoing President, Buchanan, whose term of office would not expire until March 4, 1861, there were still some Southern leaders, like Jefferson Davis, seeking either a complete surrender to Southern will, or advantages for Southern security in case secession was accomplished.

Buchanan appealed hysterically to the old-time love of the Union and to the spirit of compromise.

Great congressional committees of both Senate and House of Representatives were formed seeking a solution.

Crittenden for the border states between North and South, where, more than anywhere else, there was division of opinion, proposed pledges to be given to the South.

Seward, long-time champion of the anti-slavery North, was active in the Senate in suggestion and intrigue seemingly intended to conciliate by concessions.