Mr. Bidwell observed, that he was not tenacious of the particular form of the expression. If that suggested by his colleague was deemed most correct, he had no objection to it. He would, however, remark, that the word Libya was taken from an expression used by Mr. Eaton in one of his letters. It was certainly a word used in modern times, although it might not be in general use.
As to the general question, Mr. B. hoped that, as some gentlemen thought the resolution went too far, while others thought it did not go far enough, and, as the general sentiment was, that something ought to be done by the House, it would be considered that a middle course between the two Extremes was the fittest, and that there would be a sufficient magnanimity to give a unanimous vote in favor of the resolution. For himself, he was willing to have it varied so as to make it conform to the general sense of the committee, for the purpose of insuring unanimity.
Mr. Quincy said he was not particularly tenacious of the form of expression used. He had only risen to state his knowledge as far as it went. Libya was a word in use among classical men, among poets, but not among men of business.
The question was put on substituting Barca in the room of Libya, and passed in the negative by a considerable majority. The resolution, as amended, was then agreed to without a division.
The committee rose and reported it to the House, who immediately took it into consideration.
The amendment for substituting “a gold medal with proper devices,” in the room of “a sword,” being under consideration,
Mr. J. Clay said, as the Committee of the Whole had reported their agreement to the amendment, and as a desire had been expressed that there might be a unanimous vote on the occasion, he wished more information on the subject than he possessed before he could act upon it. After having obtained this, he might very probably vote for the amendment. He, therefore, moved a reference of the resolution to a select committee, who might obtain the information required from the Secretary of the Navy.
Mr. Jackson observed, that the names of other gentlemen, who were before the walls of Derne, had been announced in the newspapers, as having assisted in the achievements that were the object of the resolution under consideration. It was not improper to inquire whether they ought to be associated in the honors awarded by Congress. To ensure, therefore, unanimity, and bestow proper praise, he hoped the course pointed out by the gentleman from Pennsylvania would be pursued.
The motion to refer the resolution to a select committee was carried—yeas 69; and Messrs. Bidwell, J. Clay, Thompson, of New Hampshire, Masters, Gray, Archer, and Casey, were appointed a committee.