, the workmen admired him, and
business men backed him. Though but forty-six years old he had already
made his existence memorable. In their emphasis orators expressed no
fear that the fierce white light which beats upon an aspirant for high
office would disclose in him poor judgment, or any weakness of
character. To these optimistic speeches delegates evinced a
responsiveness that cheered his friends.

But the real noise of the day did not commence until Chauncey M. Depew
began his eulogy of the great editor. The applause then came in drifts
of cheers as appreciative expressions fell from the lips of his
champion. It was admitted that Depew's speech adorned the day's
work.[1160] He referred to Greeley as "the embodiment of the principles
of his party," "the one man towering above all others in intellect,"
who "has contributed more than any other man toward the
enfranchisement of the slaves," and "with his pen and his tongue has
done more for the advancement of the industrial classes." In
conclusion, said the speaker, "he belongs to no county, to no
locality; he belongs to the State and to the whole country, because of
the superiority of his intellect and the purity of his patriotism."[1161]
As the speaker finished, the applause, lasting "many minutes,"[1162]
finally broke into several rounds of cheers, while friends of Griswold
as well as those of Greeley, standing on chairs, swung hats and
umbrellas after the fashion of a modern convention. Surely, Horace
Greeley was the favourite.

[Footnote 1160: New York _Tribune_, July 9, 1868.]

[Footnote 1161: New York _Tribune_, July 9, 1868.]

[Footnote 1162: _Ibid._]

The roll-call, however, gave Griswold 247, Greeley 95, Woodford 36.
For the moment Greeley's friends seemed stunned. It was worse than a
defeat--it was utter rout and confusion. He had been led into an
ambuscade and slaughtered. The _Tribune_, in explaining the affair,
said "it was evident in the morning that Griswold would get the
nomination. His friends had been working so long and there were so
many outstanding pledges." Besides, it continued, "when the fact
developed that he had a majority, it added to his strength
afterward."[1163] Why, then, it was asked, did Greeley's friends put
him into a contest already settled? Did they wish to humiliate him?
"Had Greeley been here in person," said the _Times_, with apparent
sympathy, "the result might have been different."[1164] The _Nation_
thought otherwise.