WHEATLAND, February 14, 1863.
MY DEAR MADAM:—
I often hear of your health and happiness through Harriet, but
have determined to hear directly from yourself, if I can
accomplish this by addressing you a letter. It is now “the auld
lang syne” since we first met; but to save all unpleasant
feelings, I was then much older than yourself. You captivated me
at once, and I have ever since remained faithful and true, and am
now, in my old age, your devoted friend. I should be a happy, as I
am a contented, man, were it not for the calamities of the
country. Still, I enjoy the consciousness that for many years I
warned my countrymen of the approaching danger; and during my
administration I did every thing in my power to preserve the
Union. Until I began to write history, I never fully appreciated
the part which those called the Douglas Democrats had in hastening
the catastrophe. Had they, at Charleston, simply consented to
recognize the decision of the Supreme Court in the Dred Scott
case, the Democratic party would not have been divided. This was
all on which the Southern delegates insisted. They said truly that
it made no difference to them, in point of fact, whether slavery
was abolished in the territories by act of Congress, according to
the Republican creed, or by an act of the Territorial Legislature,
according to the creed of squatter sovereignty. The delegation
from New York, headed by Dean Richmond, by their refusal to submit
to the constitutional laws of the land, as declared by the Supreme
Court, committed a fatal blunder. It would be curious to speculate
what might have been the present condition of the country, had the
Fernando Wood, instead of the Dean Richmond delegates, been
admitted at Charleston. Still, all this affords no excuse for the
conduct of the secessionists, and for their attack on Fort Sumter.
I have been twice disappointed in not seeing Prince John.[180] He
is now, I perceive, figuring extensively in politics, and, I
trust, successfully. He is able, eloquent, witty and eccentric. He
sometimes carries too much sail for his ballast, but I like him
very much. Why cannot he and Judge Roosevelt take a run to
Wheatland? How much good it would do me to see them!
I have not heard from our much valued friend, Augustus Schell, for
a long time.
Is it not strange that among a population so numerous, and so
intelligent and enterprising as ours, the war has not yet produced
one great General. McClellan is the best among them, unless it may
be Rosecrans. During the French Revolution there sprang up, often
from the ranks, Generals of the first order, possessing dash and
strategy, and capable of conducting a war of invasion in the most
efficient manner.
I sometimes hear of Lady Ousley, through Miss Lane. I rejoice that
her daughter is so well married, and shall ever hear of her health
and prosperity with the greatest satisfaction. When you write,
please to remember me to her in the kindest terms. Remember me,
also, kindly to Sir William.
Miss Lane feels the death of her brother very sensibly.
It would require much ingenuity to reconcile the apparently
conflicting statements of M. Mercier and Mr. Seward. These
will not, I think, lead to any serious consequences. The
difficulty here arises from the modern practice of publishing
indiscriminately diplomatic correspondence.
Please to remember me most kindly to the Judge, and believe me
ever to be
Respectfully and affectionately your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
Footnote 180:
Mr. John Van Buren, to whom this _soubriquet_ was long applied.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO NAHUM CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, February 23, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received yours of the 16th instant, and I can scarcely tell
you how much obliged I feel for it and the enclosed papers. In
consequence of your information, I have been able to find
everything I sought.
I feel how important it would be for myself to publish a
collection of my speeches on the different subjects to which you
refer, and especially on slavery; but I am too old and too lazy to
undertake the task. There are a few of these speeches which might
be useful to the country when they reach the point of examining
seriously the acts of the present administration outside of the
war.
Miss Lane and myself were highly gratified with your last
interesting visit. You became more like a member of the little
family than ever before. The information of which you possess so
inexhaustible a store was communicated in a familiar manner, and
we enjoyed your conversation very much. How delighted we should
always be to see you, but your distance forbids the hope that we
can often enjoy this pleasure.
Miss Lane left me on Tuesday last on a visit to her Uncle Edward
near Philadelphia. I sent your letter after her.
I wish I had some news to communicate which might prove
interesting to you. I know nothing of this kind for the present,
and to speculate concerning the future in the terrible condition
of our country would be vain labor.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. LEIPER.]
WHEATLAND, March 19, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your favor of the 12th instant, and always rejoice
to hear of your good health and prosperity.
I have been absent for a few days on a visit to a friend in
Chester county, and on my return home I was rejoiced to find
Governor Porter. We passed a very pleasant time together, talking
of old times, and of the present as well as the past.
Miss Lane has not been at home for several weeks. She has been on
a visit to her uncle and his family at Oxford Church.
I wish I had some news to communicate which would be interesting
to you. I have almost ceased to speculate upon the future
condition of our country, and yet I entertain much hope that all
will yet be well. I cannot entertain the idea of a division of the
Union. May God, in His good providence, restore it!
From your friend, as ever,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[TO MISS LANE.]
WHEATLAND, March 20, 1863.
MY DEAR HARRIET:—
I send you a letter just received from Mrs. Roosevelt in the very
condition it came to hand, and yet I scarcely believe it has been
violated. The envelope directed to me was open just as I send it.
The talented and faithful Spencer will soon deliver a lecture on
temperance. He has invited the girls to attend, and promised to
procure them tickets. That it will be able and eloquent you will
not doubt.
Two or three days ago I received a letter from old Mary Wall. She
writes to me, she says, because Miss Hetty and yourself have been
married and left Wheatland. Who are the happy and well governed
husbands she does not mention. Poor old thing! She must be in a
forlorn condition. I have enclosed her letter to Doctor Blake, and
requested him to inquire into her situation. Miss Hetty says she
might probably be admitted into Christ Church Hospital in West
Philadelphia. She is, I believe, a good Episcopalian, and has
several hundred dollars, if any body would take the trouble of
collecting it for her. I sincerely pity her.
Please to return the enclosed to brother Edward. Your purchases,
Miss Hetty says, have all arrived.
With love to all, yours affectionately,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO DR. BLAKE.]
WHEATLAND, March 21, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I am much indebted to you for the _Daily Globe_ of April, 1862,
containing your letter to the editor. I was not aware that this
had been published by Mr. Rives, and I think you were, also,
ignorant of it. But it is just the thing.
I enclose you a letter, which I have received from Mary Wall. Pray
keep it a profound secret that Miss Lane and Miss Hetty have both
been married. I should like to know who are their husbands. I pity
the old woman, and would cheerfully contribute to her wants, but I
cannot pay her expenses to England. Besides, she would be in
greater want of money there than she is here. There is an
excellent Episcopal Institution for such persons in Philadelphia,
and I think through the influence of Miss Lane she might obtain a
home in it. What property has she? I cannot make this out from her
letter. Is she a member in full communion with the Episcopal
Church? Miss Hetty thinks she is. Miss Harriet has been absent for
some time. From your benevolent heart I know you will take
pleasure in answering these questions. Above all, do not let the
old woman know anything of the Episcopal Institution, lest she
might be disappointed. I do not know that they would charge her
anything for her living; but if they should, it would be a trifle.
If she had anything to give, this might facilitate her admission.
I very often think most affectionately of you and other
friends in Washington. But why should I tax their time by
asking them to write answers to letters of mine containing no
news. Correspondence ought to be an interchange of equivalents
between friends. I have no news to give, and to write letters
on the beauty of virtue and on the fitness of things to those
who are already virtuous, and are just what they ought to be,
would be a vain labor. I wish I had something to communicate
which might provoke a long letter from you in reply. My life
is tranquil and monotonous, although I see much company,
especially from my own State. Ere a month, I shall enter my
seventy-second year, should I live so long, and my health is
excellent, considering my age. If you could know how glad I
should be to see you, and to talk over with you past and
present events, you would never fail to come this way on your
route to New Jersey and New York.
I regret very much the fate of your able, honest, and time-honored
court. I feel a warm personal regard for C. J. Dunlop. Such acts
of wanton tyranny will surely return to plague the inventors.
There will be a “tit for tat.” Why could not the Judge Advocate
General, with the rank, pay, and emoluments of a colonel of
cavalry, have saved his brother-in-law?
I perceive by the _Intelligencer_ that Judge Black has gained his
great Quicksilver Mine cause. This alone ought to make him rich.
Yours affectionately,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO DR. BLAKE.]
WHEATLAND, near LANCASTER, April 10, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I ought ere this to have acknowledged your very welcome letter of
the 21st and 26th ultimos. Your letters are always gratifying to
me, and I regret that I can give you so little in return. To
attempt to furnish you political news would be truly sending coals
to Newcastle.
I do not think it necessary at present to republish your letter in
refutation of Mr. Fessenden’s statement. Thanks to your kindness,
it is now of record in the _Globe_, and I presume it has been of
course transferred to the _Congressional Globe_. You might look.
My defence has been greatly enlarged, and will be published in due
time. I do not think this is the proper moment. Thanks to General
Scott, I need not now be in so great a hurry.
I am truly rejoiced to learn that our good and large hearted
friend Sullivan has recovered his health. May blessings rest upon
his “frosty pow!”
I am sorry to learn that Dr. Jones has had a severe attack of
gout...... He is one of my most esteemed friends, and is a
faithful and true man. May he live and prosper for many years!
Miss Lane had an idea of visiting Mr. Berghman’s, but not since
the death of her brother. She is still in Philadelphia, but I
expect her home in a week or ten days. The loss of her brother has
made a deep impression upon her. She, although the youngest, is
now the last of her father’s children.
Our friend Carlisle sent me the brief of his argument in the
case of the Brilliante. I perused it at the time with great care
and great satisfaction. His points are presented in lucid and
convincing order; and in my humble judgment he ought to have
gained the cause. I know not why I did not acknowledge the brief
at the time it was received. This I ought to have done. Judge
Black, who was here yesterday, spoke of his argument in the
highest terms. By the bye, the Judge really seems to be
embarrassed with his money. He is at a loss to know what to do
with it. I gave him advice on this subject, but whether he will
follow it, I know not. I am truly sorry that Mr. Carlisle has
felt it to be his duty to refuse to take the oath prescribed by
the new court. I do not know what it contains. If he cannot
conscientiously take it, there is an end of the question. If he
has refused simply because the court has no right to require it,
I think he has not acted prudently. He is an able and honorable
man, and a discriminating and powerful lawyer, and I fear he may
suffer in a pecuniary view. Please to remember me to him in the
most friendly terms.
Poor Mary Wall! If she has determined to return to England, I
shall cheerfully contribute to pay her expenses. You may set me
down for $20.
Could you not pay me a visit, and bring Mr. Carlisle with you,
when the spring fairly opens?
From your friend, as ever,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
P.S.—Miss Hetty, of whom you kindly inquire, has entirely
recovered her health, and is now larger than I ever saw her. I
cannot keep her in the house, or prevent her from working in the
garden or about the lawn.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. NAHUM CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, May 8, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I owe you many thanks for President Lord’s picture of
Abolitionism. It is clearly and forcibly written, and proceeding
from a New England clergyman, it is almost miraculous.
I fear you are too sanguine in predicting that in another year
there will be great changes in favor of Democracy in the New
England States. The clergy have taught the people there that
slavery is a mortal sin demanding extirpation.
The mass of the Democracy in this State is as true to the
Constitution and the Union as the needle to the pole. With the
exception of a few fanatics, they are not extreme. They will obey
the laws, and await the process of the ballot-box for redress.
Unless something unexpected should occur, they will elect their
governor in October by a large majority.
From the current of events, it is to be apprehended that it will
be long before the Democracy can obtain a majority in the Senate.
The people already begin to speculate upon this subject. They say
it would be unjust that the six New England States with a
population scarcely greater than that of New York, should have a
representation in the Senate equal to that of New York,
Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri combined, not
to speak of Western Virginia, and the thinly peopled Territories
soon to be admitted as States. For my own part I am willing to
follow where the Constitution leads, trusting to Providence for
the final result. Still I should be rejoiced if even a single
Senator could be elected from New England.
Miss Lane came home for a few days a brief time ago; but returned
to her uncle’s to be confirmed and admitted as a member of the
Episcopal Church. When she next returns, I have no doubt she will
be too happy to write to you.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, May 18, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
In answer to your request of the 11th instant:—I regret that I
have not a single copy of the Documents to which you refer, except
those forming a part of the entire set of Documents for 1860-61.
It is but a few weeks since I gave the last copy to a friend. I
have received Judge Parker’s Letters and Address, for which please
to accept my thanks. You inform me in your note of the 14th, that
you enclose me a slip containing facts upon a subject alluded to
in our conversation when you were at Wheatland. _This I have not
received._
Miss Lane has not yet returned and my evenings are rather
solitary. Still I resign myself in a philosophic and, I trust,
Christian spirit to the privations inseparable from old age. I
wish, with all my heart, that I had a few neighbors like yourself.
I try to think as little of public affairs as possible; but they
will ever intrude. If I could be of any service, I should
sacrifice all to restore the Union; but as I can contribute
nothing towards the accomplishment of this most desirable object,
I relieve my mind from the subject as much as possible.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MISS LANE.]
MY DEAR MISS LANE:—
I enclose you a letter from James S. Lane, which, under your
general license, so far as your Uncle John’s estate is concerned,
I took the liberty of opening.
Lancaster is in a state of agitation and alarm. They have
determined, on motion of Mr. Hager, to defend the city to the last
extremity. I do not consider the danger great, so far as we are
concerned. It may be otherwise at Harrisburg. You had better
remain at your Uncle Edward’s; because if you were to return home,
if there were any danger, I should send you back. I suppose you
are aware that Doctor Nevin has sent Alice and Blanche to New
York. I do not think we are in any serious danger in Lancaster;
but if we were, you could not by possibility remain.
Mr. Swarr is here, and I want to send this to town by him. In
haste
Yours affectionately,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, July 8, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your note of the 5th instant, with the article
enclosed. This I have read with much satisfaction. It is the
philosophy of politics applied to our present unfortunate
condition.
It is probable the rebels might have paid a flying visit to
Lancaster had not the bridge across the Susquehanna at
Wrightsville been burnt down. I remained quietly at home, and
would not have removed under any circumstances. They were within
eleven miles of us.
I am at a loss for precise dates, which you can supply. When was
the Anti-Slavery Society organized at Boston, and when did
Thompson arrive in this country, and how long did he remain? By
answering these questions, if convenient, you will greatly oblige
me.
Miss Lane is now at home, and desires to be most kindly remembered
to you. My health is as good as usual.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO DR. BLAKE.]
WHEATLAND, July 23, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received the _National Intelligencer_ containing the well
deserved eulogy on our deceased friend Mr. Sullivan. I saw a
notice of his death some days before in the Philadelphia _Age_,
and immediately wrote a letter of sympathy to his widow, an
excellent woman, worthy of such a husband. I felt deeply the death
of Mr. Sullivan, from our ancient friendly social relation which
had continued without interruption for many years.
By the bye, you do not seem to have been aware, as I was not
myself until a few days ago, that my franking privilege had been
abolished. It was first brought to my notice by the receipt of
letters and packages in the form of letters marked with double
postage because not prepaid. The Postmaster General, in his
instructions, ought to have noticed this. It was hardly consistent
with the dignity of Congress, whilst retaining the privilege of
its own members, to strike at Mrs. Harrison, if she is still
living, Mrs. Polk, Mr. Fillmore, General Pierce, and myself. But I
care nothing about it. This privilege, in all its forms, ought to
be entirely abolished. Members of Congress have abused it to an
enormous extent. Neither the Queen nor any member of the British
Parliament can frank a letter.
I have not been so well for some days. My rheumatism has partially
returned with strong symptoms of dyspepsia. I propose going to the
Bedford Springs some day next week, should nothing occur to
prevent.
The draft gives much dissatisfaction in this county, especially
among poor men with large families dependent for support on their
labor. The laws, however, will not here be forcibly resisted.
How glad I should be to meet you, and other old Washington
friends; but this seems to be impossible.
Unless some great and unforeseen change should take place, Judge
Woodward will be elected governor of our State by a large
majority.
Miss Lane desires me to present her kindest regards.
From your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. SCHELL.]
WHEATLAND, near LANCASTER, July 25, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
It is so long since I have heard from you that I wish to know what
has become of you, and how you are enjoying yourself.
Although taking no active part in politics, I have yet been
observing, with great interest, the events that are passing. I
have been much gratified with Governor Seymour’s course, but fear
he is now about to fall into an error. The conscription law,
though unwise and unjust in many of its provisions, is not, in my
opinion, unconstitutional. The Constitution confers upon Congress
in the clearest terms the power “to raise and support armies,”
without any other limitation except that “no appropriation of
money to that use shall be for a longer term than two years.” How
shall these armies be raised? Can this only be done by voluntary
enlistment? Or may not Congress resort to a conscription law as a
necessary and proper means, such as is employed by other nations
for this purpose?
I think the confusion on the subject has arisen from the blending
the restricted power over the militia, an entirely distinct
question, with that of the general power in Congress to raise
armies.
But I merely make these suggestions. It would be very unfortunate
if, after the present administration have committed so many clear
violations of the Constitution, the Democratic party should place
itself in opposition to what I think must be the decision of the
Supreme Court of the United States on this question.
I have not been so well as usual for the last few days. I intend
to go to Bedford towards the end of next week, if nothing should
prevent, and shall take Miss Hetty along with me, whose robust
health has been giving way for some time past. Miss Lane and Miss
Buchanan will remain at home. I would request you to accompany me
there, but I know the company will be small, and the place would
not be agreeable to you, under these circumstances.
From the last letter received from James Henry I fear he will lose
his excellent wife. I sympathize with him deeply in this gloomy
prospect. Her loss to him would be irreparable. May Heaven avert
it!
Cannot my fifteen Tennessee five per cent. bonds be now sold at a
rate bearing a just proportion to the price of the six per cent.
bonds?
“The signs of the times” in this State indicate the election of
Judge Woodward by a large majority. Unless some great and
unexpected change should take place, such I confidently predict
will be the result.
Miss Lane and Miss Buchanan desire to be very kindly remembered to
you.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. BAKER.]
WHEATLAND, July 26, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have no news to communicate of the least importance, and write
only to keep the chain of friendship bright between you and
myself. My health has not been as good as usual for the last few
days, but the visit to the Bedford Springs will, I think, be of
service to me. The fabled fountain to restore youth has never yet
been discovered, and there is no remedy for old age but Christian
philosophy and resignation. By the bye, should you have business
at Broad Top, how happy I should be to have your company thus far,
or until the end of the journey, should you desire to use the
water. There has been, and probably will be, but little company
there, and Farmer Baker must, I presume, stay at home at this busy
season. We propose to leave on Thursday next. I shall take Miss
Hetty with me, whose health has been declining for some time. Miss
Lane and Annie Buchanan will remain at Wheatland.
What has become of the visit of Mr. Read and yourself, from which
I had anticipated so much pleasure? I have heard nothing either
from or of Mr. Dillon for a long time. Doctor Sample passed a day
and night with me last week. We had a most agreeable time talking
over “old times” and our memories of men of the past generation.
He is old and feeble in body, and somewhat deaf, but his intellect
is still clear. He seems to be contented with his lot, and in him
Christianity has disarmed the fear of death.
. . . . . . .
.
. . . . . . .
.
. . . . . . .
.
Please to remember me in the kindest terms to Mrs. Baker, Mrs.
Hopkins and the other members of your most agreeable family. So
much for Sunday morning before going to church.
Ever your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MISS LANE.]
BEDFORD SPRINGS, August 3, 1863.
MY DEAR HARRIET:—
We arrived here safe and sound on Friday last before dinner. I
hardly ever passed a more uncomfortable day than that on which I
left, having suffered the whole day with a violent diarrhœa. At
night Mrs. Baker gave me a dose of your friend Brown’s
Anti-Cholera mixture, which cured me outright. The water has had
its usual good effect upon me, and I think I needed it much. No
healing fountain can cure old age; but with God’s blessing it may
assist in gently sloping the way which leads to death.
The company here consists of about one hundred and fifty, and I
think there is fully that number. There are many sensible and
agreeable people among them; but they are not very gay. On
Saturday night they made the first attempt to get up a cotillion,
and it partly succeeded, but they wanted the buoyancy and
brilliancy of former times.
There are several naughty secession girls here from
Baltimore,—some of them very bright. My principal amusement has
been with them, and I am really inclined to believe they give
General Schenck a hard time of it. The stories they tell of how
they provoked him are truly amusing. They praise General Wool, and
I have no doubt they flatter him into a compliance with many of
their wishes. They speak rather contemptuously of our friend
General Dix, but Schenck is their abomination.
I treat them playfully, and tell them I love them so, that it
would be impossible for me ever to consent to part from them, and
that the shocking idea has never once entered my head of living in
a separate confederacy from them. I am like Ruth, and that they
must not entreat me from following after them. We must be one and
indivisible. I hear accounts from the other side, and it is
certain the Baltimore women must give General Schenck a rough road
to travel.
Our little party is very agreeable. Mrs. Nevin is as gay as a girl
let loose from school after a long session of hard service. I
could hardly tell you how much she enjoys herself. Miss Hetty gets
along quietly and well. Her manners are ladylike, and she behaves
with perfect propriety. Mrs. Baker is very good and very ladylike;
and Miss Swarr is modest but cheerful. I need not speak of Messrs.
Swarr, Baker, Carpenter, and North. We are all grateful. There
have been many kind inquiries after you, but a watering place is
like the world, even the grandest performers are soon forgotten.
Mr. Babcock, of the Yeates Institute, preached here last night,
but I did not hear him. Those who did, say he preached very well.
I never saw him to my knowledge.
I am treated by all with kindness and respect. I saw Mrs. Patton
and Miss Hamilton on Saturday evening. The health of the latter is
evidently improving.
Give my love to Miss Annie, Elizabeth Speer Buchanan, and remember
me kindly to Mrs. Fahnestock. I hope you are all getting along
happily.
Yours affectionately,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. LEIPER.]
WHEATLAND, September 22, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
It afforded me great pleasure to learn from yours of the 14th
instant, that you still enjoy health and happiness. May this yet
continue for years to come! I have recently had a severe and very
painful attack of rheumatism, but it has nearly passed away.
I met Mr. Kelly at the Bedford Springs, and we talked very kindly
of you and yours. I found my old friends there as kind and as
enthusiastic as ever. My visit was very agreeable.
I cannot anticipate the result of the Governor’s election, as I
was able to do in former years, when I took an active part in
politics. The news, however, is generally cheering. It is the most
important State election which has ever been held in Pennsylvania.
God grant us a safe deliverance!
I saw Judge Woodward when he was in Lancaster at our great meeting
on Thursday last, though I did not attend the meeting. He seems to
be in fine spirits, and will, if elected, make an excellent
Governor. Governor Porter and Judge Black were with us. The
Governor’s health is still good, and he is as shrewd and observant
as ever. Judge Black’s speech will, I think, make a noise in the
world. It is able and eloquent, and _very strong_.
I hope nothing may occur to prevent you from visiting me the next
time you entertain so good an intention. This I hope may ere long
occur.
Miss Lane desires to be very kindly remembered to you. We expect a
visit to-day from Sir Henry Holland, and she is busy in making
preparations.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
P.S.—I saw an account of the great meeting to which you refer, and
was happy to perceive that you are still in the harness.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO DR. BLAKE.]
WHEATLAND, December 5, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
Your favor of the 24th October was well worthy of an immediate
answer, but my life here glides along so quietly and tranquilly as
to afford no incidents worth communicating.
The quarrel among the Republicans to which you refer will not, I
think, subserve the immediate interests of the Democratic party.
They cannot afford to divide. The main object of them all is to
abolish every vestige of slavery, and they differ only as to the
best means of accomplishing it. The difference between them, as I
understand it, is between tweedle-dum and tweedle-dee. Whilst the
Sumnerites would convert the States in rebellion into Territories,
to be governed as such under the laws of Congress, the Blairites,
preserving the name of States, would place them under the military
government of the President. In either case, they can only be
restored to the Union provided slavery is abolished. The more
extreme party will probably prevail, because such is the nature
and history of revolutions. The Blairs will be crushed, unless
they shall speedily repent. This they will not hesitate to do,
should their interests so dictate.
The Democratic party must rely upon themselves and await events. I
see the Democratic members have been holding meetings preparatory
to the assemblage of Congress. On their prudence, firmness and
decision much will depend. Their platform, if it be wise, will
give tone to the party throughout the country. With the vanity of
age, I think I could construct one which would unite and
strengthen the party, but no person consults me on such a subject.
I agree with you that, however much we may condemn Secretary
Chase’s official conduct, he is a gentleman by education and
personal demeanor. He is, in my judgment, by far the ablest member
of the cabinet, not excepting even Abraham himself. The skill,
however, with which he has obtained loans and managed the paper
money machine, will only make the crash, when it shall occur, the
more terrific. His adroit management may delay, but cannot prevent
it. As long as he can issue greenbacks with one hand as currency,
and receive them with the other for national loans, the crazy
vessel may be kept afloat.
Well! we see from the papers that Washington is to be gay and
extravagant beyond all former example during the approaching
winter. Shoddy will make a grand display. How much your society,
formerly the best in the country, must have changed! Mrs. Ogle
Tayloe was here about a fortnight ago, sighing over the memory of
past days.
We have been more gay than usual at Wheatland for the last few
months, and have seen a good deal of company. I have not been out
of the county since you were here, but they will have it that I am
now in England.
I have thought several times of accepting your kind offer to
attend to ——. He is an ungrateful little scamp, and no reason
exists why I should not sell his property. I think I shall soon
send you all the papers which will prove how much he has
bamboozled me. I wish you would talk to Mr. Riggs upon the
subject.
Miss Lane and Miss Hetty both desire to be most kindly remembered
to you. We all unite in the expression of regret that we cannot
see you oftener.
With my kindest regards to Doctor Jones, I remain,
Always your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO HON. GEORGE G. LEIPER.]
WHEATLAND, December 21, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your kind favor, and am always rejoiced to learn
your continued health and happiness. May you live to enjoy a merry
Christmas and a happy New Year, and a number of such, until, in a
good old age, you shall be peacefully gathered to your fathers in
well-grounded Christian hope.
The storm of persecution against me, as you intimate, has nearly
spent itself, though the _Herald_ and the _Tribune_, both of which
I take, occasionally strike me a blow. My time will, however, soon
come. I am now much more fully prepared than I was a year ago. I
view it as a merciful dispensation of Providence that the report
of General Scott to President Lincoln has been published during my
lifetime, and this through his own folly.....
Miss Lane desires her kindest remembrance to you. I need not say
we shall always be most happy to see and welcome you at Wheatland.
Your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO DR. BLAKE.]
WHEATLAND, near LANCASTER, December 31, 1863.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your favor of the 28th instant, and am content to
leave the —— affair to be managed by Mr. Riggs in the manner he
proposes. Still I should be much obliged to you to keep a sharp
look out over the matter. The conduct of Leonard and his wife has
been all it should not have been.
We now seem to be rapidly treading the paths of all former
Republics. A large standing army necessarily produces some
ambitious commander-in-chief possessing its confidence.
Fortunately for the country, no general having the pre-eminence
over all the rest has yet made his appearance, unless Grant may
prove to be the coming man. At the termination of the war, it will
probably be more difficult to get clear of the army than it was to
raise it.
The time has now arrived when with perfect safety the Democrats in
Congress might erect a secure platform; but will they do it? What
can be expected from a party at the head of which is..... A man of
the first consideration ought to have been selected as.....; and
above all, he ought not to have been one of those who broke up the
National Convention at Charleston. Mr. Lincoln would be less
dangerous to the Republic than an unprincipled military chieftain
whom the army would follow to any extremity. My health is as
usual. Miss Lane desires to be kindly remembered to you.
Ever your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, January 14, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
Miss Lane and myself have received your Christmas greetings with
peculiar pleasure, and trust you may live many years in health and
prosperity.
With you I believe that the madness of men will eventually yield
to conservative counsels; _but not soon_. In this respect, I
differ both from you and Governor Seymour. I yet perceive no
evidence of a change so happy. It may, however, come suddenly with
the crash of the paper system, which, sooner or later, is
inevitable. The Democratic party is not yet prepared to act with
power and unanimity. They would, at the present moment, divide,
should they attempt to erect a platform. And yet, in my opinion,
the time has arrived when a platform could be constructed which
would stand against all external shocks and would carry the
principles of the glorious old party triumphantly through the
breakers.
Have you ever thought of the danger to our institutions from the
disbandment of a standing army of a million of men, one-fourth at
least being negroes? Will they patiently and quietly consent, with
arms in their hands, to return to the labors and duties of private
life, and to earn their living by the sweat of their brow? What
does history teach in this respect? I trust in God it may be so.
As to Christianity: it seems now to consist in preaching war
instead of peace. In New England, I presume, the masses are
tolerably united in favor of the gospel of war. In this portion of
the world there is considerable division, though the higher law
doctrine of the abolitionist would seem to be in the ascendant.
The state of public opinion in this quarter was naively
illustrated the other day by a young lady who called to see me.
She said that the church in their town (Presbyterian) had been
vacant for several months, though they gave a good salary. “When,”
said she, “a preacher comes to us on trial, and we are pleased
with him, after he goes away, they begin to inquire whether he is
a Republican or Democrat. If found to be a Republican, the
Democrats oppose him, and if found to be a Democrat, the
Republicans oppose him; and so, between the two, it is hard to
tell whether we shall ever have another preacher.”
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, January 27, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I am just recovering from a rather severe illness and was only
able on yesterday to leave my room. I find your two letters of
January 16 and January 20, and am scarcely in a condition to do
more than thank you for them.
My publication is ready for the press; but the Democrats have made
no issue on which to fight the Presidential battle...... The
Republicans care not a button how much we complain of their
unconstitutional measures, their change of the war from its
original purposes, etc., etc., so long as we give them a vigorous
material support. From present appearances, Mr. Lincoln will be
re-elected, unless some Republican military chieftain should
supply his place, or our finances should break down.
All I have to say in regard to the Floyd acceptances is that the
“gentleman of high respectability” is altogether mistaken in
regard to myself, and, I have no doubt, is equally so in regard to
Governor Toucey.
A Senator first informed me that drafts on the War Department,
payable at a future day and accepted by Governor Floyd, were on
change in New York. I immediately sent for Mr. Floyd and asked him
if it were true. He told me that Russell & Co., in order to enable
them to send provisions to the army in Utah, had to anticipate
their credit, and as these drafts were only payable after the
money had been earned, there could be no danger. There were but
three or four of them. I asked him by what law he was authorized
to issue such acceptances. He said there was no law for it, but it
had been the practice of the office. I told him it must at once be
discontinued—that if there was no law for it, it was against law.
He told me the few drafts already accepted should be immediately
paid, and he would never issue another. I rested satisfied, and
was greatly astonished when, some months after, the fraud was
discovered, and the subject placed before the committee of the
House. Mr. Holt, in all he did, acted under my direction and with
my assent.
Miss Lane desires to be most kindly remembered to you. I wish I
could drop in for a day at Mount Ida.
Ever your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. SCHELL.]
WHEATLAND, February 12, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your favor of the 9th instant. I had supposed that
James Henry would have informed you of the reason I had not
visited New York. When making the necessary preparations to leave
home, I had a violent and very painful attack of rheumatic gout.
Although I have now recovered from this, I still walk with
difficulty, and am not yet in a condition to visit your city.
I agree with you that the future of the Democratic party is
discouraging. At the moment when it was clearly demonstrated
that the administration, departing from the principle of
conducting the war for the restoration of the Union as it was,
and the Constitution as it is, had resolved to conduct it for
the subjugation of the Southern States and the destruction of
slavery, the party had then an opportunity of making a noble,
and probably a successful issue with their opponents. That time
has now passed, and the leaders of our party, beginning at New
York, notwithstanding the change in the programme of our
opponents, are still nearly as demonstrative in the support of
the war as the Republicans. No party can succeed without a great
issue, broadly placed before the people.
We are getting on here as usual, just as you left us. Harriet
Buchanan is still with us, and you are often the subject of
agreeable conversation in our little group.
I send you a check for the wine, and remain, very respectfully,
Your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, March 14, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your letter of the 1st instant. You may well have
expected to hear from me ere this, in answer to yours of the 1st
February. I am sorry to say, however, that, about the time of its
receipt, I again had an attack of rheumatism in my legs still more
violent and painful than the former, which confined me for a
considerable time to my bed and to my chamber, because I could not
set my feet on the ground. Thank God! I think I have entirely
recovered from it, except that I still hobble in my gait. I am,
however, daily improving.
Would that I were able to visit your Arcadia in the month of June
and receive your cordial welcome; but this is an enjoyment which I
fear is not reserved for me.
I owe you many thanks for your very kind offer to cause my record
to be stereotyped and to superintend the work. Your services would
be invaluable, but I do not consider it of sufficient importance
for stereotyping. By the bye, a friend the other day sent me a
copy of Appleton’s Cyclopædia for 1861, which I find, to my
surprise, contains a tolerably fair representation of the last
months of my administration, so far as the facts were known to the
author. It is, however, greatly deficient in many particulars.
Still, there is throughout a spirit of candor manifested, to which
I have not been lately accustomed.
I hope your meeting in New York may result in good for the country
and the Democratic party. So far as I can learn and observe, there
will be very great difficulty in erecting a platform on which the
party can unite. It now embraces all shades of opinion, from the
prosecution of the war with as much vigor as the Republicans,
notwithstanding the violations of the Constitution, down to peace
[with the Confederate government], which means neither more nor
less than recognition. I say that this means recognition, because
I entertain not the least idea that the South would return to the
Union, if we were to offer to restore them with all the rights
which belonged to them, as expounded by the Supreme Court, at the
time of their secession. Besides, I regret to say, many good
Democrats in Pennsylvania begin to be inoculated with abolition
principles. I could construct a platform which would suit myself;
but what is right and what is practicable are two very different
things. For the latter we must await the course of events until a
short time before the meeting of the convention. I entertain a
warm regard both for Mr. Reed and Mr. O’Conor, but I believe both
may be called extreme peace men. Have you ever reflected upon what
would be the embarrassments of a Democratic administration, should
it succeed to power with the war still existing and the finances
in their present unhappy condition?
The Democrats of New Hampshire, with General Pierce, have fought a
noble battle worthy of a better fate. I was much pleased with the
article you were kind enough to send me.
Miss Lane desires to be most kindly remembered to you. Whilst it
is highly improbable that we shall drop in upon you at Mount Ida,
I hope it is certain you may drop in upon us at Wheatland during
the approaching spring or summer. The bluebirds and other
songsters are now singing around me, and the buds are ready to
burst; but yet we have all kinds of weather in the course of a
single day.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MRS. VIELE.]
WHEATLAND, near LANCASTER, May 2, 1864.
MY DEAR MADAM:—
I must crave a thousand pardons for not having complied with your
request and sent you my autograph, with a sentiment for your
album. I need not assign the reasons for this omission, but if you
should think it proceeded from want of respect for yourself, you
would be greatly in error. On the contrary, although I have never
enjoyed the pleasure of your acquaintance, yet from what I have
learned of your character and intellectual accomplishments, I
shall be proud to hold a place in your personal esteem.
Congratulating you on the unexampled success of the New York Fair
for the relief of our brave and disabled soldiers, to which you
yourself have contributed in no small degree, I remain,
Yours very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. TOUCEY.]
WHEATLAND, near LANCASTER, May 13, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
It is long since I have heard from you, and I desire to learn that
Mrs. Toucey and yourself are as comfortable and happy as my
earnest wishes prompt.
During the past winter I have suffered severe attacks of painful
rheumatism in both legs. The disease has finally retreated into my
right hand and arm, and is now, I trust in God, passing away. I
still, however, write with considerable pain.
I earnestly desire that you could be with me for a few days. The
publication which I propose to make has for some time been
substantially, I may almost say, literally prepared. I think the
simple statement of facts in their natural order affords a
conclusive vindication of our administration for the last four
months of its duration. The preface contains a historical sketch
of the rise and progress of abolition, of the Charleston
Convention, of the Peace Convention, etc., etc. I have had no
person to assist me in its preparation, to make suggestions, or
even to verify the facts, though these are mostly official......
The season is delightful, and why cannot Mrs. Toucey and yourself
pay us a visit? Did we part at Washington never again to enjoy the
society of each other? I trust in God not......
The Judge, notwithstanding all this, is perfectly true to our
administration. He talks very openly and without disguise against
the present administration, and, before our last gubernatorial
election, made a speech of greater severity and power against
Lincoln (and published it) than any delivered throughout the
campaign. Judge Black and his family visit me occasionally, and he
is just as agreeable as ever. His practice in the Supreme Court
has been very lucrative, and he is now becoming a rich man.
Miss Lane unites with me in cordial regards to Mrs. Toucey, and
expresses an ardent hope that you may both pay us a visit.
From your friend, always,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. TOUCEY TO MR. BUCHANAN.]
HARTFORD, May 25, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:
I was very happy to receive your letter of the 13th inst. It gave
me information which I had long been wishing to obtain. Let me
rejoice with you that you have regained your accustomed power of
locomotion without the discomfort of bodily pain. I think the time
has come when the history of the last four months of your eventful
administration may be given to the public, with good results. Mrs.
Toucey’s health is so delicate and precarious, that I fear we
shall not be able to accept your kind invitation, for which we are
very grateful to you and to Miss Lane. Still, I trust that we
shall meet again and enjoy the opportunity of conferring together
upon the events of the last seven years, so interesting to us all.
It will be my greatest pleasure to contribute anything in my power
to the history you have in hand, although I think you need no aid
from any quarter; and as to giving “the last finishing touches,”
that is what you have always been accustomed to do yourself; and
while I appreciate your kindness, it would be absurd for me to
think of aiding Praxiteles to give the finishing polish to his
work. I send you herewith a printed copy of my testimony before
the Senate Committee, which embraces all the facts with regard to
Norfolk, Pensacola, and, incidentally, the Home squadron. The
testimony was divided into two parts by the committee for their
convenience. The note appended to it is strictly correct, and in
three lines answers the grossly false accusation that the navy was
sent abroad in the interest of secession. The truth is, the
squadrons at the different foreign stations were all of them very
small, had not been augmented in proportion to the increase of our
commerce, and none of them could be diminished without sacrificing
its safety and the interests and safety of those engaged in it. It
is not, I suppose, now treason to say “Blessed are the
peacemakers.” It was the cardinal point of your policy to preserve
the peace of the country, and thereby most surely preserve the
union of these States on the existing basis of the Constitution;
and it would have been a most startling departure from that policy
to have recalled our foreign squadrons, and thus, with lunatic
rashness, defeat it at the outset, and precipitate at once the
wretched consequences which have since followed its abandonment,
to the utter ruin of the country. I thank God that we can wash our
hands of any such criminality. There is one fact which has never
transpired—which at the time was shrouded in the greatest
secrecy—which was not communicated to any of my colleagues in the
cabinet—which rested with the late gallant Commander Ward, a
friend of mine from his youth, who fell on the Potomac in the
early stage of the war. He was stationed at New York in command of
the receiving ship. It was arranged with him that, on receiving a
telegraphic despatch from me, he should, in the course of the
following night, set sail from New York with a force of small
vessels, and relieve the garrison of Fort Sumter, entering the
harbor in the night and anchoring, if possible, under the guns of
the fort. He sought the desperate enterprise with the greatest
enthusiasm, and was willing to sacrifice his life, saying that the
sacrifice would be the best inheritance he could leave to his wife
and children. He left Washington, after repeated interviews with
me, with instructions to select his officers, select and prepare
his men on board of the receiving ship, and make every preparation
which he could make without exciting suspicion, so that he could
set sail in a few hours, whenever the emergency should arise. In
regard to the wish of General Cass to withdraw his resignation, I
knew nothing personally, but remember well that the subject was
brought up in cabinet meeting; that Judge Black and Mr. Thompson
seemed to know all about it, as if they were privy to it; and that
after some discussion you deemed it inadmissible. The times are
sadly out of joint. I had not supposed it possible that any
administration could, in the short space of three years, do the
work of destruction so effectually. Still I trust that, in the
boundless stores of Infinite mercy, there may yet be some
deliverance for the country.
Mrs. Toucey unites with me in the kindest regards to yourself and
Miss Lane. I am, my dear Sir, with the highest consideration and
regard, always
Your friend,
ISAAC TOUCEY.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. LEIPER.]
WHEATLAND, June 20th, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I am always rejoiced to hear that you are still in the enjoyment
of a green and happy old age, surrounded by grateful and
prosperous children and grandchildren. May this long be the lot
from Providence of Mrs. Leiper and yourself!
You inquire for my health, and I am glad to inform you it is as
good as I can expect. After suffering much during the past winter
and early spring from rheumatic gout, I have been for several
weeks free from pain, though I still hobble a little in walking.
You inform me you have a good deal to talk to me about when we
meet. I hope this may be ere long. I need not assure you how happy
I always am to see you.
Your friend, Miss Lane, desires to be most kindly remembered to
you. After passing the whole winter and spring at home, I am glad
she has determined to visit the Bedford Springs about the middle
of July. Whether I shall accompany her is uncertain. I believe it
is natural for old men to be reluctant to leave home. At least,
such is my feeling.
What an extraordinary speech Mr. Lincoln has made to the Union
Leaguers at Philadelphia! They have promised with a shout to march
to the front at his call and shed their blood, if need be, in the
cause of their country. I have no doubt he will afford them the
opportunity. Nobody believes they will embrace it. They will
still, however, fight the Copperheads at home.
Your friend, as ever,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. J. B. BAKER.]
WHEATLAND, July 15th, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
As the rebel raid is over, Miss Lane will leave for the Bedford
Springs on Tuesday next, and will go to Huntingdon that evening.
She would be very glad if Emily and yourself should accompany her.
I desire to go, but have not yet determined.
When will the purchase money for the Pim property be payable? If
at the present moment, it would not be convenient for me; but
still I can borrow.
I learn that Doctor Carpenter and your uncle Newton are to visit
you to-morrow. I do hope you will be able to arrange all affairs.
Your friend, as ever,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MISS LANE.]
WHEATLAND, August 5th, 1864.
MY DEAR MISS LANE:—
I arrived here this afternoon, baggage all safe, a few minutes
after three o’clock. I never had so agreeable a ride on a railroad
car. I would advise you, by all means, in returning home, to stay
all night at Huntingdon and come by the cars on the next morning.
I told Mr. Miller......, and I wish you to stay at his house. We
parted from Mrs. Pegram, Miss Brent, and Mr. Jackson, at
Harrisburg—a sorry parting.
I found all things in good order on my arrival. Mrs. Fahnestock is
still here and so is Miss Harriet Parker.
Governor Curtin, as you will have perceived, has called for the
services of 30,000 volunteers to defend the State against the
rebels.
I scarcely know to what ladies to send my love at Bedford, but I
wish you to deliver it especially to the ladies who gave me a
parting kiss. The fragrance of their lips is as fresh as at the
first moment. I hope you and Harriet will behave with all proper
respect to your venerable aunt. Remember me most kindly to Mrs.
Wade. I hope she will place you under proper restraint, a thing I
have never been able to accomplish. Give my best love to Harriet.
I entertain no fears for you at the Springs. It is possible,
however, that the rebels may succeed in cutting the railroad track
between Huntingdon and Harrisburg, which would put you to some
inconvenience on returning home; but be not alarmed.
Yours affectionately,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
P.S.—From a telegram sent by Mr. Scott to Altoona, it would seem
he considers that place to be in danger.
[TO HIS NEPHEW, JAMES BUCHANAN.]
WHEATLAND, August 6th, 1864.
MY DEAR JAMES:—
I have received your favor of the 3d instant, and am truly
rejoiced to learn that your prospects are so favorable in the oil
region. Until I read your letter, I had supposed your brother
Edward was a partner with you; but as you do not mention his name,
I conclude this is not the case......
I passed more than a fortnight very agreeably at the Springs. Miss
Lane desired to remain until your father should go to Bedford. I
am now sorry I did not bring her and Harriet Buchanan home with
me, although I do not consider them in any danger at the Springs.
What I fear is that the railroad may be cut and travel interrupted
somewhere between Huntingdon and Harrisburg. Newton Lightner is
still at the Springs, and I hope they may return with him. The
people of Lancaster are in great alarm and are about to remove
their valuables......
Yours affectionately,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. LEIPER.]
WHEATLAND, August 23, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your favor and it affords me great pleasure to
learn that Mrs. Leiper and yourself propose to pay us a visit some
time after the 1st September. The sooner the better. I need not
promise both a cordial welcome. Please write a day or two before
so that the carriage may meet you at the cars.
It did not occur to me that your former letter might have referred
to that one which I wrote in favor of Forney’s election to the
Senate. If it had, I should have spared you some trouble.
Miss Lane returned from the Springs on Friday last and desires to
be kindly remembered to Mrs. Leiper and yourself.
The address of Mr. Lincoln’s “To whom it may concern,” has given a
great impulse to the reaction already commenced before its date. I
have no doubt he is anxious to correct the blunder; but cannot
believe, as the New York _Herald’s_ correspondent states, that he
has employed Judge Black to visit Canada for this purpose.
Very affectionately, your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, August 25, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your favors of the 1st and 17th insts., together
with a copy of your letter to Mr. Van Dyke as Chairman, all of
which I have read with much interest. The meeting of the Chicago
Convention is so near at hand that it would be vain to enter into
political speculations. The proceedings of this body, whatever
they may be, will constitute a new and important era in the
history of the Democratic party. From all appearances McClellan
will be nominated. Whether for good or for evil time must
determine. The platform will present the greatest difficulty.
Whilst we are all in favor of peace, it may be too pacific. We
ought to commence negotiations with the South and offer them every
reasonable guarantee for the security of their rights _within the
Union_. If they will accept this and engage to meet us in a
general convention of all the States, then I should be in favor of
an armistice. A general proposition for peace, and an armistice
without reference to the restoration of the Union, would be in
fact a recognition of their independence. For this I confess I am
far from being prepared.
It is my impression that the South have no idea of making peace
without recognition. In this I trust I may be mistaken.
Your article on “swapping horses” is both witty and true, and has
afforded us much amusement.
In regard to Miss Lane’s coal lands: I think it would be
impossible, scattered as the heirs are, and some of them needy, to
obtain the consent of all to lease them. It is in the power of any
one of them to force a sale by legal proceedings. This was
threatened; but has not yet been attempted. In that event, which
is highly probable, we ought to be prepared to purchase; and from
the nature of law proceedings we shall have sufficient time to be
ready. Your services and influence may then become very
beneficial...... Miss Lane will write to you whenever anything
shall occur respecting the lands.
I shall decide when and how I shall publish after seeing the
proceedings at Chicago. I cannot think the work deserves to be
stereotyped.
Miss Lane desires to be most kindly remembered to you.
My health is as usual. We passed our time very agreeably at the
Springs.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[TO HIS NEPHEW, J. BUCHANAN HENRY.]
WHEATLAND, September 22, 1864.
MY DEAR JAMES:—
I was very much gratified with your last letter, as I always am to
hear good tidings of yourself and your little boy. May God have
you both under His holy keeping! I should have written to you more
than ten days ago, but for an accident which has caused me much
pain, and confined me to my room, and a great part of the time to
bed, since last Sunday week. On that evening whilst taking a walk
on the turnpike I fell with great force, and the concussion was so
violent that on the next day I found myself unable to walk, and
for several days I could not stand. I can now walk across the
floor and my strength is gradually returning. In other respects I
am well. The doctor thought that the severe fall might bring back
the rheumatism; but it has not done so, except in a slight
degree......
No man except General McClellan could have been nominated at
Chicago. The Convention was neither more nor less than a
ratification meeting of the decree of the people. He would not
have been my first choice; but I am satisfied. God grant he may
succeed! Peace would be a great, a very great blessing; but it
would be purchased at too high a price at the expense of the
Union. I have never yet been able to tolerate the idea of Southern
recognition.
Mr. Schell will, I think and earnestly hope, accept my invitation
to pay us a visit during the present or next month. We should all
be glad you would accompany him; but not at the expense of your
important business...... Miss Hetty has made apple butter for you
which, in the estimate of those who use such an article, is
pronounced excellent. She says, however, that you never write to
her as you did formerly.
Miss Harriet and Miss Hetty desire me to present their kindest
love to you, and I remain
Yours affectionately,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, October 5, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have just received your favor of the 3d instant. Whilst I do not
concur in opinion with our valued friend, Mr. Sparks, that there
is no difference between the Chicago platform and General
McClellan’s letter of acceptance, I am cordially willing to give
him my vote.
On retiring from the Presidential office, I expressed the
determination to follow the example of my Democratic predecessors,
and refrain from taking an active part in party politics. Still, I
am as much of a Democrat, and as devoted to Democratic principles,
as I ever have been. Peace, although a great blessing and greatly
to be desired, would be too dearly purchased at the expense of the
Union, and I, therefore, like the letter of General McClellan.
In answer to your inquiry, I am but slightly, if at all,
acquainted with General McClellan. I must certainly have seen him,
but have no recollection of his person.
As to the result of the election in this State, I can express no
opinion. I hear, from those who visit me, of great changes
everywhere in our favor; but it cannot be denied that, since the
victories of Farragut, Sherman, and the prospects of General
Grant, an impression has been made, more or less extensively, that
the Southern States will speedily submit. I wish to God this were
true. It is certain, however, that the expectation has gone far to
embolden the Republicans. But why speculate? Tuesday next will
decide the vote of Pennsylvania at the Presidential election,
unless it should be very close.
My record is all ready, but I do not intend to publish until after
the Presidential election. The truth which it contains would not
make it a very acceptable document, especially to the friends of
the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, of Squatter Sovereignty,
and of those Douglas supporters who broke up the Charleston
Convention. It would not be very acceptable to ——, nor to ——, and
that class of politicians.
Miss Lane desires to be most kindly remembered to you, and I
remain always,
Very respectfully your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. LEIPER.]
WHEATLAND, October 26, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your favor of the 18th instant, and regret to
learn from it that Mrs. Leiper and yourself have abandoned the
purpose of paying us a visit. I anticipated much pleasure from
this visit. I now meet very few who can converse with me from
their own knowledge of the distant past; and it is always a source
of high gratification to meet an old friend like yourself, even
older than I am, with whom I have ever been on terms of intimacy.
We are both at a period of life when it is our duty to relax our
grasp on a world fast receding, and fix our thoughts, desires and
affections on one which knows no change. I trust in God that,
through the merits and atonement of his Son, we may be both
prepared for the inevitable change.
I am truly sorry to learn that you have not been very well. My own
health is now good, except some rheumatic feeling in the legs.
I experience, with you, the desire to stay at home. This comes
from old age, and is a merciful dispensation of Providence,
repressing the desire to mingle much with the outside world when
we are no longer capable of its enjoyments. Peace and tranquillity
suit us best.
Though feeling a deep interest in it, I speculate but little on
the result of the approaching election. When I was behind the
scenes I could generally predict the event; but not so now. I
confess I was most agreeably surprised that we had carried the
Congressional election on the home vote, and now indulge the hope
that we may have a majority over the soldiers’ vote and all on the
8th November. In this, however, I do not feel very great
confidence.
Please to present my kind regards to Mrs. Leiper, and say how
sorry I am not to have been able to welcome her at Wheatland. I
should still insist on your promised visit, but Miss Lane left
home yesterday, to stay I do not know how long.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. HASSARD.]
WHEATLAND, near LANCASTER, November 8, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your favor of the 31st ultimo, inquiring whether
there is any truth in the statement that President Polk, in 1846,
had solicited Arch-Bishop Hughes to accept a special mission to
Mexico, and I regret that I cannot give this question a very
definite answer. I shall cheerfully, however, state all my
knowledge on the subject.
There were at this period many Catholic soldiers in the army of
General Taylor on the Rio Grande; and I suggested to President
Polk that it was our duty to provide them chaplains of their own
Christian denomination. To this he cheerfully assented. In
consequence, I addressed the letter, in May, 1846, to which you
refer, to Bishop Hughes (not then Archbishop), inviting him to
come to Washington. He was then in Baltimore, attending the
Provincial Council of Bishops. He immediately came to the State
Department, accompanied by Bishop ——, of Dubuque.
When I communicated to Bishop Hughes the desire of the President
to send Catholic chaplains to the army, and to obtain his advice
and assistance to carry this into effect, both Bishops warmly
approved the measure. They immediately proceeded to the Jesuits’
College in Georgetown, to obtain the services of two suitable army
chaplains. After a few hours they returned, evidently much
gratified with their success, and informed me, in enthusiastic
terms, that every professor in the College, both old and young,
had volunteered to go to the army. The Bishops, however, came to
the conclusion that it would be more expedient to select the
chaplains from among the priests outside of the college, and
accordingly Father McElroy and Father Rey, of the Jesuit Society,
were appointed for this arduous and dangerous service. It is due
to these pious and good men to say they faithfully and usefully
performed their spiritual duties to the soldiers, and with much
satisfaction to the administration. One of these, Father Rey, was
afterwards murdered by brigands, near Monterey.
It occurred to the President, whilst the Bishop was in Washington,
and most probably at an earlier period, that, should he consent to
visit Mexico, he might render essential services in removing the
violent prejudices of the Mexicans, and especially of their
influential clergy, which then prevailed against the United
States, and thus prepare the way for peace between the two
Republics. In this I heartily concurred. Independently of his
exalted character as a dignitary of the church, I believed him to
be one of the ablest and most accomplished and energetic men I had
ever known, and that he possessed all the prudence and firmness
necessary to render such a mission successful.
The President and the Bishop had several conversations on this
subject; but at none of these was I present. I have not the least
doubt, however, from what I heard the President say, that this
mission was offered to him, and that he declined it.
The President, much as he desired to avail himself of the Bishop’s
services, could not at the time offer him anything more
acceptable. He could not appoint a new envoy to the Mexican
Government so soon after they had refused, in an insulting manner,
to receive our former minister. Paredes was, at that time, the
Revolutionary President of Mexico. He owed his elevation to his
extreme and violent hostility to the Government and people of the
United States. Besides, his army had just commenced the war by
crossing the Rio Grande and attacking a detachment of our troops.
Yours very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO DR. BLAKE.]
WHEATLAND, November 21, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
From your last letter I incline to believe that you bear our
defeat with Christian fortitude. Your preceding letter was written
with such glowing confidence and joyful hope, that Miss Lane and
myself had some amusement over it, as we had no expectation of
General McClellan’s election from the beginning, most ardently as
we desired it. If one seriously asks himself the question, in what
condition would the Democratic party be, with all the terrible
difficulties and embarrassments surrounding it, had it been
successful, he will find grounds for consolation in defeat. It has
shown its strength and has performed its duty, and can well afford
to bide its time. Meanwhile, it will be a watchful guardian over
the Constitution.
Now would be the time for conciliation on the part of Mr. Lincoln.
A frank and manly offer to the Confederates, that they might
return to the Union just as they were before they left it, leaving
the slavery question to settle itself, might possibly be accepted.
Should they return, he would have the glory of accomplishing the
object of the war against the most formidable rebellion which has
ever existed. He ought to desire nothing more.
In that event, the exasperated feelings of mutual hate would soon
subside. If the parties would not love each other, they must
entertain greater mutual respect for one another than ever existed
before. There would be no new collision between them for a hundred
years. The Republicans in this part of the world are not exultant.
They have won the elephant, and they will find difficulty in
deciding what to do with him.
I feel some pity for Stanton, on his sick bed. I have no doubt of
his personal integrity, and that his acceptance of the Department
has been a great pecuniary loss to him. He has served Lincoln
faithfully, if not very ably or discreetly, and yet the
Republicans themselves do not speak well of him......
I rarely see and but seldom hear of Judge Black. I presume he must
now be in Washington. He must be getting very rich.
I very seldom hear from Mr. Toucey. He is a gentleman of the old
school, full of principle and honor.
I have not the least feeling against our good friend Flinn on
account of _that resolution_, but esteem him as highly as ever. I
am convinced he had no part in it. It was altogether à la
Florence.
Miss Lane has been at her uncle Edward’s for several weeks, and
will not be home till the beginning of December, and then Buchanan
Henry will accompany her. In the meantime, Miss Annie Buchanan, a
very intelligent and agreeable girl, is staying with me. She, as
well as Miss Hetty, desires to be kindly remembered. We all wish
you would spend the Christmas holidays with us.
Remember me kindly to Doctor Jones and Mr. Carlisle. Had the
latter accepted the position in the cabinet which I offered, I
should have had one ex-member of it, both able and willing to
render me valuable assistance, and this he could have done with
very little loss of hours.
Your letters are always highly acceptable, and I shall ever
remain, most sincerely,
Your friend,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
[MR. BUCHANAN TO MR. CAPEN.]
WHEATLAND, December 28, 1864.
MY DEAR SIR:—
I have received your favor of Christmas day, and cordially return
you my best wishes for your health, prosperity and happiness. I
agree in opinion with General McClellan, that it is fortunate both
for himself and the Democratic party that he was not elected. But
I consider the defeat of Governor Seymour as most unfortunate. But
doctors will differ.
Miss Lane received your favor respecting the coal lands in
Philadelphia, but she is now at home. These consist of about 2,300
acres, situate in Broad Top Township, Bedford County, near the
railroad connecting the Pennsylvania Railroad at Huntingdon, with
the mines. This road is in full operation, and over it there is
now conveyed large quantities of excellent coal to market. I have
no doubt of the great value of these lands, though they have not
been further explored than to ascertain there is abundance of coal
in them. Miss Lane’s interest in them is about one-eleventh, and
she is entirely opposed to their sale, but I have no doubt this
will be forced by some of her co-heirs. As yet she has received no
notice of the institution of proceedings for this purpose, but is
expecting it daily. The parties to whom you refer ought to examine
the lands, for there is not a doubt they will be sold in the
spring.
Miss Lane desires to be kindly remembered to you.
From your friend, very respectfully,
JAMES BUCHANAN.
P.S.—My health has been good for several months.