828. BINGHAM (William), Character of.—
Though Bingham is not in diplomatic
office, yet as he wishes to be so, I will mention
such circumstances of him, as you might otherwise
be deceived in. He will make you believe
he was on the most intimate footing with the
first characters in Europe, and versed in the
secrets of every cabinet. Not a word of this
is true. He had a rage for being presented
to great men, and had no modesty in the methods
by which he could if he attained acquaintance.—
To James Madison. Washington ed. ii, 108.
Ford ed., iv, 366.
(P.
1787)
