It was represented by my friends, that I should get no credit for the forbearance, but that, on the contrary, it would be said that my forbearance was evidence of my having made a bargain, though unwilling to execute it.

* * * * * * * * These and other similar arguments were pressed upon me; and after a week's deliberation, I yielded to their force.

It is quite possible that I may have erred * * * * * * I shall, at least, have no cause of self-reproach." In 1829, after Mr.Adams had retired from the Presidential chair, in reply to a letter from a committee of gentlemen in New Jersey, who had addressed him, he spoke of Mr.Clay as follows: "Upon him the foulest slanders have been showered.

Long known and appreciated, as successively a member of both Houses of your national Legislature, as the unrivalled Speaker, and at the same time most efficient leader of debates in one of them; as an able and successful negotiator of your interests, in war and peace, with foreign powers, and as a powerful candidate for the highest of your trusts, the department of state itself was a station which by its bestowal could confer neither profit nor honor upon him, but upon which he has shed unfading honor, by the manner in which he has discharged its duties.
Prejudice and passion have charged him with obtaining that office by bargain and corruption.

Before you, my fellow-citizens, in the presence of our country and heaven, I pronounce that charge totally unfounded.