"UTICA, _October 7, 1885_.
"MY DEAR SIR,--A few days since I received with my mail a
letter from you. I glanced at it, and laid it aside with a view of
reading it with attention. Since then I have been unable to find
it amongst my papers. I find my memory is so much impaired that I
am apt to forget what I do when I put aside with care. I cannot,
therefore, write you a responsive reply. I am mortified by such
mistakes, which multiply as memory fails.
"During the past eight years my memory and health have been impaired
by a sunstroke.
"I am obliged to live in a quiet way at my farm; all excitements
are hurtful. I have not been away from home, save to make a short
journey to see one of my sisters in Madison County. I know but
little about current events. I think over the past or speculate
about the future.
"Now and then a reporter calls. As my views upon public [sic] are
vague and vaguely expressed, they give such interpretation as they
wish, so that I am frequently surprised by my opinions as they are
given in the press.
"I wish I could visit New York again, but I fear I am too weak to do
so. With my wishes for your health and welfare,
"I am, truly yours,
"HORATIO SEYMOUR.
"_Hon. S. J. Tilden._"