But if the Slave Trade is to be added to the dose, the least squeamish British stomach will reject it[68]." Nevertheless the vigorous action of South Carolina, soon followed by other Southern States, made a deep impression on Russell, especially when compared with the uncertainty and irresolution manifested in the attempted compromise measures of Northern statesmen.

In a private letter to Lyons, January 10, 1861, he wrote "I do not see how the United States can be cobbled together again by any compromise....

I cannot see any mode of reconciling such parties as these.

The best thing _now_ would be that the right to secede should be acknowledged....

I hope sensible men will take this view....