Senator Lewis Cass to the Committee, June 4, 1850

WASHINGTON, June 4, 1850.

GENTLEMEN—I have received your invitation to be present at the dinner to be given to your able and patriotic Senator, Governor Dickinson, for his services during the period of excitement arising out of the slavery question, and regret that I cannot accept it. This testimonial of your approbation has been as nobly won as it is honorably bestowed. It comes in a good time, and from a good quarter—from the Commercial Metropolis of our country—and now, when the dark hour is upon us. I have observed with pride and pleasure the conduct of your Senator, during this whole unhappy controversy, and never was a State represented in the councils of our country with more patriotism, firmness, and consistency. That recompense that is so dear to a public man, the "Well done, thou good and faithful servant," pronounced by his constituents, will cheer him in the work he has yet to do, as well as reward him for what he has done, and so well done. I am, gentlemen, with great regard, your obedient servant,

LEWIS CASS.

CHARLES O'CONOR, Esq., and others, Committee.

SOURCE: John R. Dickinson, Editor, Speeches, Correspondence, Etc., of the Late Daniel S. Dickinson of New York, Vol. 2, p. 436