On the 8th President Washington, according to his custom, addressed both houses of Congress.

This day for the first time the gallery was thrown open to the public.

When the reply of the Senate came up for consideration, the purpose of the Republicans was at once manifest.

They would not consent to the approbation it expressed of the conduct of the administration.

They would not admit that the causes of external discord had been extinguished "on terms consistent with our national honor and safety," or indeed extinguished at all, and they would not acknowledge that the efforts of the President to establish the peace, freedom, and prosperity of the country had been "enlightened and firm." Nevertheless the address was agreed to by a vote of 14 to 8.
In the House a resolution was moved that a respectful address ought to be presented.