The object of the measure appealed to Mr.Webster's love for the past, to his imagination, and his patriotism.

He entered into the debate, delivered the fine and dignified speech which is preserved in his works, and saved the bill.
A fortnight after this he made his famous speech on the tariff of 1828, a bill making extensive changes in the rates of duties imposed in 1816 and 1824.

This speech marks an important change in Mr.Webster's views and in his course as a statesman.

He now gave up his position as the ablest opponent in the country of the protective policy, and went over to the support of the tariff and the "American system" of Mr.Clay.This change, in every way of great importance, subjected Mr.Webster to severe criticism both then and subsequently.

It is, therefore, necessary to examine briefly his previous utterances on this question in order to reach a correct understanding of his motives in taking this important step and to appreciate his reasons for the adoption of a policy with which, after the year 1828, he was so closely identified.
When Mr.Webster first entered Congress he was a thorough-going Federalist.
But the Federalists of New England differed from their great chief, Alexander Hamilton, on the question of a protective policy.