4922. MADISON (James), Reelection as President.—
I have known Mr. Madison from
1779, when he first came into the public councils,
and from three and thirty years' trial, I can
say conscientiously that I do not know in the
world a man of purer integrity, more dispassionate,
disinterested, and devoted to genuine republicanism;
nor could I, in the whole scope
of America and Europe, point out an abler head.
He may be illy seconded by others, betrayed by
the Hulls and Arnolds of our country, for such
there are in every country, and with sorrow
and suffering we know it. But what man can
do will be done by Mr. Madison. I hope, therefore,
there will be no difference among republicans
as to his reelection; we shall know his
value when we have to give him up, and to
look at large for his successor.—
To Thomas C. Flourney. Washington ed. vi, 82.
(M.
Oct. 1812)
