The new "sovereign, free, and independent" government of South Carolina sent commissioners to Washington to negotiate for the surrender of the national forts, and the transfer of the national property within her limits.

Mr.Buchanan prepared an answer to their request which was compromising to the honor of the Executive and perilous to the integrity of the Union.

Judge Black took a decided and irrevocable stand against the President's position.

He advised Mr.Buchanan that upon the basis of that fatal concession to the Disunion leaders he could not remain in his Cabinet.

It was a sharp issue, but was soon adjusted.