"OWEGO, N. Y., _June 13th, 1872_.
"MY DEAR SIR,--For some years past I have not been able to see how I
could do any good by active political action. This year it looked as
though something might be accomplished, and I signified my willingness
to go to the State convention, and allowed myself to become interested
in the political situation. The nominations at Cincinnati gave me a
recoil, but still I hoped something might be done. I confess I am
almost discouraged again. If Greeley is to be nominated at Baltimore
it will so divide the Democrats as to cause defeat just when success is
within our reach by a judicious nomination, either wholly Democratic or
partly and principally liberal Republican. We could unite on Trumbull,
Adams, Davis, Cox, etc. I could even (though reluctantly) support Chas.
Sumner, but I don't see how I can preserve my self-respect if I vote
for Greeley.
"Is his nomination at Baltimore a necessity? If a straight Democratic
ticket is not advisable, why could not some arrangement be made to
nominate, say, Trumbull, and some reform Democrat, yourself, for
instance, for V. P.? I am not so much a 'Bourbon' but that I could vote
for such a ticket with great pleasure. I care nothing for the issues
which are past, but Mr. Greeley is directly against us upon the great
living issues, those issues which began with our govt. and must last as
long as it lasts. He has not, besides, the qualities which fit for the
Presidency, but others which would make him the prey of the designing
and corrupt.
"Must such a man be the Democratic candidate for the Presidency?
"I am unwilling to trespass on your valuable time, but should be very
glad of a line from you on this subject.
"Very truly, &c.,
"JOHN J. TAYLOR."