The bill was carried by his great strength in debate and by height of forcible argument.

But in the Senate, where it was deprived of the guardianship of its author, it hung along in uncertainty, and was finally lost through the apathy or opposition of those very Western members for whose benefit it had been devised.

Mr.Webster took its ultimate defeat very coolly.

The Eastern States did not require it, and were perfectly contented with the existing arrangements, and he was entirely satisfied with the assurance that the best lawyers and wisest men approved the principles of the bill.

The time and thought which he had expended were not wasted so far as he was personally concerned, for they served to enhance his influence and reputation both as a lawyer and statesman.
This session brought with it also occasions for debate other than those which were offered by measures of purely legislative and practical interest.