Staunton Spectator

Though the country is enveloped in gloom and darkness, and the minds of the people oppressed with anxiety and dread, those who supported the Union ticket have done nothing for which they can reproach themselves. They did all they could to avert the dangers which at this time threaten the Government with destruction. If they had succeeded in the election of their ticket the country would now be at perfect peace with a bright and hopeful prospect for continued happiness and prosperity. They predicted the evils which would ensue in the event of their defeat, but the people turned a deaf ear to their entreaties and expostulations. They are now, though in a great minority, doing all they can to save the country. The train which contains all the vast interests of this great country is now on a descending grade, driven with an excess of steam, and it is time the conservative "brakes" were put down with vigorous force, else there will soon be a general smash up.

The members of Congress, like the people generally, seem to be at a perfect loss to know what to do in the present perilous condition of the country. They are like persons groping their way in a dark cave where not a ray of light penetrates, and where there is constant danger that a misstep may precipitate them over a fearful precipice. All is gloom, darkness, danger and dread. They feel that it will not do to stand still, and yet they know not in what direction to move, for fearful dangers environ them on every side. The people look to Congress to lead the way out of this labyrinth of dangers, but it seems that that body does not possess an Ariadne who can furnish the clue by which that object can be attained.