ourselves only, but as the inheritance of our posterity, are deliberately and systematically violated.  And the period has arrived when, in the opinion of your committee, it is the sacred duty of congress to call forth the patriotism and the resources of the country.  By the aid of these and with the blessing of God, we confidently trust we shall be able to procure that redress which has been sought for by justice, by remonstrance and forbearance, in vain.”

The report went over the land as fast as the mails in that day of stage coaches could carry it, and made a profound impression on the minds of the people.  Resolutions, drawn in accordance with the spirit of the report, were appended to it, and these led to earnest debates.  In these debates, the brilliant John C. Calhoun, then less than thirty years of age, engaged.  It marked the beginning of his long and illustrious career.  He made his maiden speech in favor of war, and charmed his listeners.  John Randolph, always happy when in opposition to everybody, spoke vehemently against the report and resolutions.

The Federalists, having always advocated a policy of being prepared for war, could not from principle oppose these resolutions as they recommended only such preparations.  The resolutions were adopted and bills prepared for augmenting the military force of the country.

The regular army was increased to twenty-five thousand men; also two major-generals and live brigadier-generals, in addition to those then in office were authorized.  A million dollars were appropriated for the purchase of arms, ammunition and stores for the army, and four hundred thousand dollars for powder, cannon and small arms for the navy.

War was not yet declared, and, with a proper course of treatment from Great Britain, it would not have been; yet the war feeling of 1811 was strong.  It needed but a breath to fan the flame to a terrible conflagration.

CHAPTER VII.

FERNANDO’S FRIEND GETS HIM INTO A SERIOUS SCRAPE.

In due time Fernando and Sukey were entered in the college.  They were transferred to more comfortable quarters than the wretched inn of Mrs. Mahone.  Terrence superintended everything and was, in truth, the good angel of the boys.  He had a warm heart, was a genuine friend, and would have shed his last drop of blood for them; but Terrence was, after all, a young scamp, whose dearest friend was not free from a practical joke.  His jokes often became serious affairs and involved himself as well as friends in trouble, though he never intended anything unpleasant.

Fernando had been in college but a few months, and was already making excellent progress, when one day Terrence came to his room and said: 

“Me frind, d’ye want to see a bit of good society?”

Laying down a heavy mathematical work, Fernando smilingly answered: 

“I don’t know, Terrence; I’ve hardly time for society.”