Tie Abolition Question and Hr. Van Barren
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The Abolition Question and Mr Van Barren.


We refer once more to this subject, on
account of its great Importance to the people
of the South, and with a view to refresh
their memories in relation to principle in
the political character of a man who is now
before them as a candidate for the presi-
dency. In regard to the question of slavery,
the Vice President admits the constitutional
power of Congress to abolish it in The Dis
trct of Columbia, but he further adds, there
would be great impropriety in doing so.
Now if Congress has such power over prl-
vate property in the District of Columbia,
it has the same in all other territories. This
power is derived under that clause Of the
Constitution which grants to Congress eX-
elusive legislation. Mr.. Van Buren,, in his
late letter, expresses his strong convlc-
ton" that Congress should not exercise this
power without the consent of the slave
holding states; but in the declaration of this
doctrine he was extremely careful not to
"give pledges" but profossod to state his
"settled opinions and conviction of duty" "
We have not forgotten that Mr. Van Buren
freely gave his PLEDGE to act upon, and
carry out, the measures of Gen. Jackson's
administration. Why pledge himself to the
latter and not to the former? Why so will
ing to bow to the wishes and dictatlon of an
Individual, and yet so reluctant to yield
himself unreseryedly to the interests of
large portion of our country? The reason
is at hand--it is to be found in the predomi-
mating feature of his chardeter-CUNNING.
He we'll knew that Gen. Jackson was in
the habit of carrying out his own measures,
and that therefore he should not incur res
possibility, but be indulged with a fine OPP
portunity to play the sycophant, which is his
strong and familiar game. lie was per-
fectly safe in making this pledge, and he
knew the willing dupes that could be gulled
by his sycophancy. But mark the change.
When he was called upon for an expression
of his opinion upon subject OF vital import
ence to the southern states, involving the
right of property and the security of life,
he declines giving pledges. People of the
South, pause and reflect upon this matter.
1t is one worthy of your most anxious
thought. Mr.. Van Buren very well under
stood the opinions of our northern brethren
upon this subject, and that, setting interest
aside, they having the power, would use it;
yea, even though your lives should be Pc
rilled on the issue! "His convictions of
duty"! what are they?-learn them in the
history of the Missounquestion-readthe them
in his negro votes in the New York Con
vention-think of the man as he ever has
been deyeloped--a creature Of poticy-an
CGcc-hanter--G fat0niRg sycophaat at the
footstooI Of Potcer, and IT'S settled and un-
changing ,corshiPper. Trust HIM NOT.


Columbus Herald