178. AFFLICTION, Consolation in.—
Tried myself in the school of affliction, by the
loss of every form of connection which can
rive the human heart, I know well, and feel
what you have lost, what you have suffered,
are suffering, and have yet to endure. The
same trials have taught me that for ills so
immeasurable, time and silence are the only
medicine. I will not, therefore, by useless
condolences, open afresh the sluices of your
grief, nor, although mingling sincerely my tears
with yours, will I say a word more where words
are vain.—
To John Adams. Washington ed. vii, 107.
Ford ed., x, 114.
(M.
1818)
