Meeting followed meeting in rapid succession, and each was marked by some signal manifestation of a healthier, holier and more resolute national purpose.

Numbers, calmness, order, obedience, bespoke an advanced discipline, and prefigured future victory.

The crowds that attended the Halls of the Association no longer consisted of idle brawlers; they were listening, thoughtful mechanics, conscious of the toil and danger that lay before them, and braced for the encounter.

Dignitaries of the church and the ablest men among the second order of the clergy appeared on the platform, and added sanctity and dignity to the proceedings.

Members of Corporations through the country, and private gentlemen of rank brought to the imposing confederacy the weight of their office, rank and name.