“We come not here, gentlemen, to form cabals; to organize parties; or to concoct party intrigues. These are the well ,adopted employment of unprincipled demagogues and servile factions, whose patriotism consists in professions, but whose real objects are power, emolument, or self gratification in some less reputable mode. But higher and more useful purposes have summoned us together; and I trust in God, these beneficial purposes will engage our undivided attention, as we shall deport ourselves in these respects, so will the blessing or the reprobation of the wise and thinking portion of the people, rest on our labours.” — Republic Vice President David Burnet, in an opening speech to the Republic Senate.