Martinsburg Gazette And Public Advertiser

Judge Mc Lean.—There is much of the usual good sense of the writer, and not a little of consolation, in the following observations, taken from the Village Record:

“Much as the public may regret that a certain political conjuncture compelled Mr. McLean to leave the Post Office Department, and the Cabinet, and accept of the place of Judge, upon the bench of the Supreme Court; yet, we apprehend, there are pure and abundant sources of consolation to be derived from the change whether we regard the personal advantage of the gentleman named, or the public interest.

The situation of head of a Department is exceedingly laborious and responsible; and the reputation, and consequent future usefulness of a public officer who fills such station may suddenly and irretrievably be impaired by political events which he cannot control. The office of Judge is permanent, the commissions being held during good behaviour.

Mr. McLean is a well read Lawyer, has sustained the office of Judge of the Court of Ohio, with reputation, and is deemed sound in Constitutional doctrine. We are pleased that a gentleman from the West would be selected for the station. Great fears, we know, were entertained, lest the choice should fall upon one who had participated in the Relief scheme which has produced so much excitement in Kentucky. Such an event would have been deeply to be deplored as bringing at the august and hitherto sound and orthodox tribunal, principles not only dangerous to, but subversive of the supremacy of Constitutional law, over Legislative enactments; breaking down the sacred barriers which guard the rights of the citizens from the passion, frenzy, folly, or wickedness, of those who may temporarily obtain the reins of power—the dreaded evil we are safe from.

Mr. McLean's appointment is a just one—Sound constitutional—he will be hailed as a safe man on all points—and a public blessing. We thank General Jackson for making this appointment.”