He stood at the head of that class of statesmen who were next to the highest grade.
Like so many other eminent Whigs, he was excluded from the full recognition of his power by the overshadowing prestige of Mr.Clay and Mr.Webster.

The appearance of Mr.Crittenden in the House in his seventy-fourth year was his patriotic response to the roll-call of duty.

He loved his country and his whole country, and every effort of his waning strength was put forth in behalf of the Union.
It was his influence, more than that of any other man, which saved his State from the vortex of Rebellion.

But for his strong hold upon the sympathy and pride of Kentucky, the malign influence of Breckinridge might have forced the State into the Confederacy.
Mr.Lincoln considered Mr.Crittenden's course entitled to the admiration and gratitude of every man who was loyal to the Union.
THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Another Kentuckian gave noble aid to the National cause.

Charles A.Wickliffe was a contemporary of Mr.Crittenden, and had for many years belonged to the same party.