Chapter 68: The Nebraska Territorial Bill passes in the House but is tabled in the Senate.

On February 10, 1853, Douglas’ bill to open Nebraska passes the lower chamber by a comfortable 107-49 margin. Once again, however, the South is able to stall approval in a 23-17 loss.

A frustrated Douglas gives up temporarily and travels to Europe for five months. He departs knowing that he must find a way to sweeten the pot for the South to get his way.