The fight in the House of Representatives over the Jay Treaty was vicious.  A historic moment came on April 28, 1796 when Fisher Ames gave a speech supporting the treaty.  Fisher Ames was a Representative from Massachusetts.  A Federalist who supported the Jay Treaty, Ames gave his speech while suffering from bad health.  John Adams tells his wife about the speech in a letter only days after.

Mr. Ames, the day before Yesterday in his feeble State, Scarcely able to stand upon his Legs and with much difficulty finding Breath to utter his Periods, made one of the best Speeches he ever produced to the most crouded Audience ever assembled. He was attended to with a silence and Interest never before known and he made an Impression that terrified the hardiest and will never be forgotten. Judge Indel and I happened to sit together. Our feelings beat in Unison. My God! How great he is says Indel? He is delightful Said I—presently gracious God! Says Indel how great he has been”? He has been noble, said I. After some time Indel breaks out Bless my stars I never heard any thing so great since I was born! It is divine said I.

Adams was angered that Democratic - Republicans even made the speech necessary.