The actual temper of the convention was made manifest by the ready agreement of both extremes to join battle in making the platform before proceeding to the nomination of candidates.

The usual committee of one member from each State was appointed, and to it was referred the deluge of resolutions which had been showered upon the convention.
Had an amicable solution of the slavery issue been possible, this platform committee would have found it, for it labored faithfully to accomplish the miracle.

But after three days and nights of fruitless suggestion and persuasion, the committee reappeared in convention.
Upon four points they had come to either entire or substantial agreement.

In addition to re-affirming formally the Cincinnati platform of 1856, they advised the convention to favor, 1.

The faithful execution of the fugitive-slave law.2.The protection of naturalized citizens.3.The construction of a Pacific railroad.