It was one of Mr.
Webster's most eloquent and successful attempts.

He commenced as follows:-- "This is an unaccustomed spectacle.

For the first time, fellow-citizens, badges of mourning shroud the columns and overhang the arches of this hall.

These walls, which were consecrated, so long ago, to the cause of American liberty, which witnessed her infant struggles and rung with the shouts of her earliest victories, proclaim now, that distinguished friends and champions of that great cause have fallen.

It is right that it should be thus.