A fascinating speech before the House by Indiana Representative, R. W. Thompson. It is in every way, moderate, urging against the "ultraists" of both sides. He begins with a history of slavery in American [which, according to him, was nigh near forced on them by the British], and expresses that these abolitionist movements had risen up from time to time, as had the South's efforts to expand the reach of slavery. But that, as with all things, the question must be handled by the Constitution and legal precedent, which he avers is clearly on the side of States Rights and of defining enslaved persons as "property." 

He succeeds brilliantly in saying next to nothing for nearly an hour. Mr. Thompson of Indiana is generally opposed to slavery, but supports States rights to have slaves; thinks it is abominable to treat slaves poorly, but believes they ought to be returned when they flee because they are chattel. 

Fascinatingly, the speech was quite popular and went through several quick impressions. Though mealy-mouthed in the extreme, it echoed the sentiments of many moderate Americans. Slavery is bad, but just kind of keep it tucked in the South, and that way we don't need to have any further conflict, or, God forbid, a war over it. 

Thompson, R. W. Speech of R. W. Thompson, of Indiana, on the Slavery Question. Delivered in the House of Representatives, January 25, 1849. Washington D.C. Towers Printer. 1849. 16pp.

A good copy, bound in wraps, nearly disbound, with some toning.