William H. Seward (Volume 1); 1831-1846 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1877. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... 1846.] RETURN TO AUBURN. 809 arrival at home reflected his views in this season of depression and disaster to the cause with which he was identified. Aitboen, May 28,1846. I thank you sincerely and earnestly for the frankness and candor with which you exposed to me the adverse aspects of my political position. I doubt not the accuracy of the picture you have drawn. Why should I? The emancipation question has not ripened; I saw that. I saw the Whig party, as well as the abolitionists, would be unfaithful, while the Democratic party would be boldly base. I wanted to stand before the country and the future faithful. Of course I expected and strove for the denunciation of the faithless. If that question shall have no day in my lifetime, then I am to have none, as I certainly want none. If there be a day for the rights of man, then all is safe; while, in any event, I am sure that I have written and reasoned as was due to the consistency of my own character. I do not expect to see the Whig party successful in overthrowing an Administration carrying on a war, although only against Mexico, and a negotiation for Oregon, in which the Whig party and its statesmen are found apologizing for our national adversaries. I oannot go with such friends, for my sense of patriotism forbids, even more than policy. If they will go their way, I certainly must follow mine. I do not want more preferment; but I am determined to live and die faithful to all my past life and opinions. I cannot, I will not change, to win the highest honors of the republic. CHAPTER LXVI. 1846. The Trials for Murder.--Public Feeling.--Wyatt.--Arraignment of Freeman.--His Counsel. --Hig Story.--Sane or insane ?--Witnesses.--John Van Buren.--The Argument.--Conviction and Sentence.--Seward's Epitaph. Grave and ste...