President Pierce, who had risked every thing for the South, and had received unmeasured obloquy in the North, was naturally anxious that his administration should be approved by his own party.

With all the patronage at his command, he vigorously sought a renomination.

But the party desired victory, and they feared a contest which involved an approval of the President's recreancy to solemn pledges voluntarily given.

He had been inaugurated with the applause and confidence of a nation.

He was sustained in the end by a helpless faction of a disorganized party.
The distinguished secretary of State suffered with the President.
Mr.Marcy had personally disapproved the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, but he made no opposition, and the people held him equally if not doubly guilty.