Mr.Adams, enfeebled by disease, tremulous with age, returned his thanks, regretting that he had not "voice to respond to the congratulations of his friends for the honor which had been done him." Among those who paid this unusual, indeed unprecedented, mark of respect to a fellow- member, were many from the South, who within a few years had voted to censure Mr.Adams, and had endeavored in every way to heap obloquy upon him for his persistent course in presenting anti- slavery petitions.

Spontaneous in impulse, momentary in duration, simple in form, it was yet one of the most striking tributes ever paid to moral dignity and lofty character.
PUBLIC LIFE OF JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.
Mr.Adams was nearing the end of his illustrious life, and a year later was stricken down in the seat which had been so graciously tendered him.

His career was in many respects remarkable.

He had been minister to five different European courts, senator of the United States, appointed to the Supreme Bench, had been eight years Secretary of State, and four years President.

His opportunities were great, his advantages rare, his natural abilities strong.