This reference involved debate.

In his opposition to this motion, Mr.Harper said that the motives of the friends of the resolution had been avowed by the "gentleman who led the business, from Pennsylvania;" whereby it appears that Mr.Gallatin led the Republicans in the first debate.

During this his first session he shared this distinction with Mr.Madison.At the next he became the acknowledged leader of the Republican party.
On April 3 the debate was resumed.

This second debate was led by Mr.
Madison, who considered two points: 1st, the application for papers; 2d, the constitutional rights of Congress.

His argument was of course calm and dispassionate after his usual manner.