Ferry was elected
Senator on the part of the House of Representatives of Connecticut by some
thirty majority on Wednesday. In the Senate the election was postponed for a
week, three of the Republican Senators refusing to vote for Ferry. This check
has caused consternation among the Radicals here, and I have no doubt at home
also. A violent onset will now be made on the three recusant or independent
Senators. Intriguers at New Haven, and intriguers in their respective districts
will be at work to influence them, and I have my doubts whether one or more of
them may not be shaken.
In the mean time our
friends should be at work upon others. A great mistake, however, has been
committed in getting the members pledged for persons instead of principles. I
have advised that they should put themselves on impregnable ground for the
Union, irrespective of men or parties.
Seward has gone
home. He told me he intended to make a speech while absent in favor of the
President and his policy. Originating no measure himself, and cautious and
calculating in adopting the plans of others, he nevertheless supposes that what
he says has wonderful influence. I do not think he has ever made a speech which
gave shape or character to a party, though usually the oracle of Weed and the
managers of his party. Often his remarks have been more harmful than
beneficial. His harangues at Auburn are studied orations, prepared after
consultation with his confidants, and he is now pregnant with one. If it is a
quiet baby, passive and pleasant, I shall be satisfied; if it has some
deformities, I shall not be surprised.
SOURCE: Gideon
Welles, Diary of Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy Under Lincoln and
Johnson, Vol. 2: April 1, 1864 — December 31, 1866, p. 509-10
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