124

REPORTS AND PUBLIC LETTERS.

ADDRESS

To the People of South Carolina . Prepared for the

Members of the Legislature , at the close of theSession of 1831.

In adopting a course, so unusual as that of directly ad-dressing you, we deem no other explanation necessary, thanto state that, after due reflection, we are of the impressionthe existing relations between this State and the GeneralGovernment, are such as to demand the freest and mostdirect communication between your representatives andyourselves. The highly important questions which theyinvolve, claimed and received our early and most deliberateattention. The one which so deeply excited your feelingsduring the late election (we allude to the call of a Conven-tion of the State), was submitted for consideration, at anearly period of the session ; and, though sustained by amajority of the votes in each House, yet, not having twothirds in its favor, as required by the Constitution , thequestion was of course lost. We are not disposed to com-plain of the decision. The question was fairly submittedfor your consideration, and the presumption is, that the voteof the Legislature truly represents your sentiments at thistime ; but while we acquiesce, we cannot but deeply regretthe result. We fear it has put the great cause at issue injeopardy,—while we feel the most thorough convictionthat, had you been united, with zeal and energy, to defendyour constitutional rights,—had you, with one united voice,invoked the sovereignty of the State, by the call of a Con-vention to devise the proper means of resistance to the en-croachments of the General Government,—our wrongs wouldhave been promptly, peaceably, and effectually redressed.