But he was sustained by the strong will of others when he himself wavered--appalled, as he often was, by the sacrifice he was making of the Southern support, for which he had labored so long, and endured so much.
SENATOR BRODERICK'S DEATH.
Senator Broderick of California imparted largely of his own courage and enthusiasm to Douglas at the critical juncture, and perhaps saved him from a surrender of his proud position.

Throughout the entire contest Broderick showed remarkable vigor and determination.
Considering the defects of his intellectual training in early life, he displayed unusual power as a political leader and public speaker.
He was a native of Washington, born of Irish parents, and was brought up to the trade of a stone-mason.

He went to California among the pioneers of 1849, and soon after took part in the fierce political contests of the Pacific coast.

Though a Democrat, he instinctively took the Northern side against the arrogant domination of the Southern wing of the party, led by William H.Gwin.

Broderick was elected to the United States Senate as Gwin's colleague in 1856, and at once joined Douglas in opposition to the Lecompton policy of the administration.