He was too wily not to detect the plot at the outset; he knew that all was a hoax; but, he resolved to present the paper, and then turn the tables on its authors.
[Footnote: Reminiscences of the late John Quincy Adams, by an Old Colony Man.] On the 20th of December, 1838, Mr.Adams presented a petition praying for the establishment of international relations with the Republic of Hayti, and moved that it be referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, with instructions to consider and report thereon.

This motion was opposed with great warmth by members from slaveholding States.

Mr.Adams was repeatedly interrupted during the delivery of the brief speech he made on the occasion.
Mr.Bynum insisted that the gentleman from Massachusetts should take his seat, under the rule.

If, however, he was permitted to proceed, Mr.B.
hoped some gentleman of the slaveholding portion of the House would be allowed to answer him.
Mr.Adams .-- Sir, I hope so.

Only open our mouths, gentlemen; that is all we ask, and you may answer as much as you please.
Mr.Bynum .-- I object to the gentleman proceeding further with his observations, except by consent of the House.