The opinions and speeches of every statesman on all prominent subjects of public interest are indicated or analyzed so as to present the principal features in the most unmistakable manner, in the hope that the volume will be the most useful, as it is the most extensive, of its kind, and a work of reference indispensable to men in every walk of life.
In the collection of the multitude of facts and dates to be found here, I have had, in addition to the authority of the ponderous archives of the Government, efficient aid from numerous distinguished political and literary gentlemen. Besides valuable references and documents, they furnished me with elaborate and authentic original details, which I have used with, trust, impartial freedom. Throughout the work many acknowledgments of indebtedness for such assistance are made; and I regret that the modest generosity of many prominent correspondents compels me to remain their silent debtor.
It may be proper to add that the articles describing certain scenes in the Senate during the great Kansas debate of March, 1858, were written on the spot, in full view of the occurrences related, by the present writer, during his connection with the Washington journal from which they are extracted.