No true estimate of Mr.Buchanan in the crisis of his public career can ever be reached if this vital distinction be overlooked.
It was Mr.Buchanan's misfortune to be called to act in an emergency which demanded will, fortitude, and moral courage.

In these qualities he was deficient.

He did not possess the executive faculty.

His life had been principally devoted to the practice of law in the most peaceful of communities, and to service in legislative bodies where he was borne along by the force of association.

He had not been trained to prompt decision, had not been accustomed to exercise command.