The debate over Clay's compromise proposal continued into July 1850, when Taylor suddenly and unexpectedly died of an illness. By early 1852, Webster had begun to suffer from cirrhosis of the liver, and his poor health increasingly made it difficult for him to serve as secretary of state. In September 1852, Webster returned to his Marshfield estate, where his health continued to decline due to cirrhosis and a subdural hematoma. He died in Marshfield, Massachusetts on October 24, 1852, at the age of 70, and is buried in Winslow Cemetery near his estate. His last words were, "I still live." His final decline followed a carriage accident earlier in 1852, in which he sustained serious injury. The accident and subsequent deterioration should be kept distinct from the broader chronic illnesses, including liver disease, discussed in accounts of his health. Webster died at Marshfield, Massachusetts, on October 24, 1852, while still secretary of state. The source does not justify identifying a single injury as the sole cause of every later complication. His death came during a presidential election he had hoped to contest, but the political disappointment is context rather than a demonstrated physical explanation. His final period combined impaired health, care at home and continued concern with public affairs.