Lewis Cass (American Statesmen)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1899. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XI SECRETARY OF STATE. -- SECESSION. -- THE LAST YEARS For the sake of as much perspicuity as limited space would allow, the history of "bleeding Kansas" under border ruffians has been thus briefly outlined, and the contest of arguments until the secession of the Southern States has been suggested in advance. It will now be necessary to turn from internal politics and the hurly-burly of the approaching "irrepressible conflict," and to look into the quieter paths of administration and diplomacy. Cass's more active career ended with the 4th of March, 1857. He remained a political mentor to many in his party and took a sad interest in the never-abating struggle; but he was old, the excitement of continual controversy was distasteful, and his new position fortunately gave him employment for which his experience and talents well fitted him. He accepted the office of secretary of state from President Buchanan, and entered upon his duties at once. His companions in the cabinet were Howell Cobb of Georgia, secretary of the treasury; John B. Floyd of Virginia, secretary of war; Isaac Toucey of Connecticut, secretary of the navy; Aaron V. Brown of Tennessee, postmaster-general; Jacob Thompson of Mississippi, secretary of the interior; and Jeremiah S. Black of Pennsylvania, attorney-general. This cabinet was an able one, but its four Southern members well indicated that the body of the Democratic party was in the South, and that an administration had begun which would treat slavery with tenderness and handle secession with gloves. A number of interesting diplomatic problems were offered for solution during the years of Cass's secretaryship. The Clayton-Bulwer treaty presented the usual amount of uncertainty and embarrassment, and an even more serious cause of disag...