Even though much provoked, let us do nothing through passion and ill temper.

Even though the Southern people will not so much, as listen to us, let us calmly consider their demands, and yield to them if, in our deliberate view of our duty, we possibly can.

Judging by all they say and do, and by the subject and nature of their controversy with us, let us determine, if we can, what will satisfy them.
Will they be satisfied if the Territories be unconditionally surrendered to them?
We know they will not.

In all their present complaints against us the Territories are scarcely mentioned.
Invasions and insurrections are the rage now.

Will it satisfy them if, in the future, we have nothing to do with invasions and insurrections?
We know it will not.