Many earnest Republicans were moved to strong sympathy for Douglas in this attitude, partly for his help in defeating the Lecompton iniquity, partly because they believed his action in this particular a prelude to further political repentance, partly out of that chivalric generosity of human nature which sides with the weak against the strong.

In the hour of his trial and danger many wishes for his successful reelection came to him from Republicans of national prominence.

Greeley, in the New York "Tribune" as well as in private letters, made no concealment of such a desire.

Burlingame, in a fervid speech in the House of Representatives, called upon the young men of the country to stand by the Douglas men.

It was known that Colfax and other influential members of the House were holding confidential interviews with Douglas, the object of which it was not difficult to guess.