The pending struggle for the Presidency demanded harmony, and by common consent agitation on the question was abandoned.

Two of the ablest, most fearless, most resolute men then in public life--Senator Wade of Ohio, and Representative Henry Winter Davis of Maryland--were exceptions to the general rule of acquiescence.

They were respectively the chairmen in Senate and House of the "Committees on the Rebellious States," and were primarily and especially responsible for the bill which the President criticized in his proclamation.

They united over their own signatures in a public "Protest" against the action of Mr.Lincoln.

The paper was prepared by Mr.Davis, which of itself was guaranty that it would be able, caustic, and unqualified.