The debate had now drifted far from the original resolution, but its real object had been reached at last.

The war upon the tariff had been begun, and the standard of nullification and of resistance to the Union and to the laws of Congress had been planted boldly in the Senate of the United States.

The debate was adjourned and Mr.Hayne did not conclude till January 25.

The next day Mr.Webster replied in the second speech on Foote's resolution, which is popularly known as the "Reply to Hayne." This great speech marks the highest point attained by Mr.Webster as a public man.

He never surpassed it, he never equalled it afterwards.