Reuben H. Walworth to Messrs. George Douglas, Charles O'Conor, and others, Committee, &c., June 15, 1850

SARATOGA SPRINGS, June 15, 1850.

GENTLEMEN—I sincerely regret that my other engagements will not permit me to accept your invitation to be present at the public dinner to be given by the Democrats of New York to Mr. Dickinson, on the 17th instant.

The decided and noble stand which our able and distinguished Senator has taken, in opposition to that sectional agitation, which, to subserve local or personal objects, is endangering the integrity of the Union, entitles him to the respect and gratitude of every true friend of our common country. Whatever may be the result of the efforts of the distinguished statesmen and patriots who are now using their talents and influence to adjust those difficulties which are disturbing the harmony of these confederated States, the names of those engaged in putting forth those efforts should be held in grateful remembrance by every friend of his country and of his kind. And may the blessing of that beneficent Providence, which has hitherto protected and preserved our glorious Union, rest upon and crown with success the exertions of those who seek to calm the troubled waters of sectional agitation, as contradistinguished from the efforts of those who, for selfish purposes, or from mistaken views of conscientious duty, are fanning the rising flame of sectional discord, and sowing the bitter seeds of civil war or of fraternal strife.

I am, gentlemen, with respect, yours, &c.,

R. H. WALWORTH.

Messrs. GEORGE DOUGLAS, CHARLES O'CONOR, and others, Committee, &c.

SOURCE: John R. Dickinson, Editor, Speeches, Correspondence, Etc., of the Late Daniel S. Dickinson of New York, Vol. 2, p. 440-1