There is an enemy
somewhere endeavoring to sow discord among us. Instead of listening
first, then doubting, and lastly believing anile tales handed round
without an atom of evidence, if my friends will address themselves to
me directly, as you have done, they shall be informed with frankness
and thankfulness. There is not a truth on earth which I fear or would
disguise. But secret slanders cannot be disarmed, because they are
secret. Although you desire no answer, I shall give you one to those
articles admitting a short answer, reserving those which require more
explanation than the compass of a letter admits, to conversation on your
arrival here. And as I write this for your personal satisfaction, I
rely that my letter will, under no circumstances, be communicated to any
mortal, because you well know how every syllable from me is distorted by
the ingenuity of political enemies.
In the first place, then, I have had less communication, directly or
indirectly, with the republicans of the east, this session, than I ever
had before. This has proceeded from accidental circumstances, not from
design. And if there be any coolness between those of the south and
myself, it has not been from me towards them. Certainly there has been
no other reserve, than to avoid taking part in the divisions among
our friends. That Mr. R. has openly attacked the administration is
sufficiently known. We were not disposed to join in league with Britain,
under any belief that she is fighting for the liberties of mankind,
and to enter into war with Spain, and consequently France.
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