Everywhere was that strange, ominous, indescribable tension of the atmosphere which exists when a great people is moved deeply.

The stern figure of Calhoun, furnishing courage for a people, even as he had for a president, loomed large in the public prints.
Late as it was when I reached Washington, I did not hesitate to repair at once to the residence of Mr.Calhoun; and I took with me as my best adjutant my strange friend Von Rittenhofen, who, I fancied, might add detailed information which Mr.Calhoun would find of value.

We were admitted to Mr.Calhoun, and after the first greetings he signified that he would hear my report.

He sat, his long, thin hands on his chair arm, as I went on with my story, his keen eyes scanning also my old companion as I spoke.

I explained what the latter knew regarding Oregon.