Read it through once

I have now finished a task--by no means a pleasant one--and I have done it with a trembling hand, for the subject is a delicate one--a subject of intense interest, under the existing circumstances, to every American citizen. To me, the signs of the times appear to be ominous--to forebode evil! I sometimes fear that our political sun has passed the zenith--lowering clouds intercept his rays, and at times obscure his former brightness, majesty and glory. The ship of State is tossed by furious winds, and threatened by boisterous waves--rocks and quicksands are on the right and left--an awful wreck awaits her, and can only be averted by vigilance, prudence, caution and circumspection on the part of her crew.