Tocqueville, September 4, 1856.
I have read, my dear Senior, your letter with great pleasure. Your
criticism delights me, for I rely on your judgment and on your sincerity.
I am charmed that you have found in my book more than you had learned
from our conversations, on my view of our history. We have known one
another so long, we have conversed so much and so unreservedly, that it
is difficult for either of us to write anything that the other will think
new. I was afraid that what may appear original to the public might seem
trite to you.
The Reeves have been with us; we have passed together an agreeable
fortnight. I had charged Reeve to bring you, whether you would or not.
Did he make the attempt? I am sure that you would have enjoyed your
visit, and we should have rejoiced to have under our roof two such old
friends as you and Reeve.