We are now far into the fifth year since a policy was initiated, with the avowed object and confident promise of putting an end to slavery agitation.

Under the operation of that policy, that agitation has not only not ceased, but has constantly augmented.

In my opinion it will not cease until a crisis shall have been reached and passed.

'A house divided against itself cannot stand.' I believe this Government cannot endure permanently, half slave and half free.

I do not expect the Union to be dissolved--I do not expect the house to fall--but I do expect it will cease to be divided.