I am not sure that I understand perfectly all that they mean. One thing
they demonstrate beyond any doubt, to-wit: that you have not—I think I
may say—the slightest conception of my disposition. It may be that I
know as little about yours. I am surprised by the last paragraph of The
Courier-Journal article of July 8 and amazed to read the statements
contained in your letter, that you know the message of 1887 by heart.
It is a matter of very small importance, but I hope you will allow me
to say, that in all the platform smashing you ever did, you never
injured nor inspired me that I have ever seen or heard of, except that
of 1888. I except that, so I may be exactly correct when I write, “seen
or heard of,”—for I use the words literally.
I would like very much to present some views to you relating to the
tariff position, but I am afraid to do so.
I will, however, venture to say this: If we are defeated this year, I
predict a Democratic wandering in the dark wilds of discouragement for
twenty-five years. I do not purpose to be at all responsible for such a
result. I hope all others upon whom rests the least responsibility will
fully appreciate it.
The world will move on when both of us are dead. While we stay, and
especially while we are in any way concerned in political affairs and
while we are members of the same political brotherhood, let us both
resolve to be just and modest and amiable. Yours very sincerely,