The Federalists of New England had hated Mr.Adams with the peculiar bitterness which always grows out of domestic quarrels, whether in public or private life; and although the old strife had sunk a little out of sight, it had never been healed.

The Federalist leaders in Massachusetts still disliked and distrusted Mr.Adams with an intensity none the less real because it was concealed.

In the nature of things Mr.Webster now occupied a position of political independence; but he had been a steady party man when his party was in existence, and he was still a party man so far as the old Federalist feelings retained vitality and force.

He had, moreover, but a slight personal acquaintance with Mr.Adams and no very cordial feeling toward him.

This disposed of three presidential candidates.