The things we do!

A
man above medium height, somewhat spare in habit of body, of
handsome features and distinguished presence, although with hair
now slightly thinned by advancing years, he seemed, if not by
natural right, at least by accorded authority, the leader in this
company with whose members he was not unwilling to take counsel.
Those who sat before him were his counselors, chosen by himself, in
manner ratified by law and custom. They made, as with propriety
may be stated, a remarkable body of men. It were less seemly
openly to determine their names and their station, since they were
public men, and since, as presently appeared, they now were engaged
on business of such nature as might not be placed in full upon
public records.
At least it may be stated that this meeting was held in the autumn
of the year 1850, and in one of the great public buildings of the
city of Washington. Apparently it was more private than official
in its nature, and apparently it now had lasted for some time.


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