But he was a man of ability, and had held high rank as a senator and as secretary of State.

Above all he had never given a vote offensive to the South.
Indeed, his Virginia friend, Henry A.Wise, boasted that his record was as spotless as that of Calhoun.
Buchanan's hour had come.

He was a necessity to the South, a necessity to his party; and against the combined force of all the ambitious men who sought the place, he was nominated.

But he had a severe struggle.

President Pierce and Senator Douglas each made a persistent effort.