1077. CALUMNY, Political.—[further continued] .
If, brooding over past
calamities, the adherents of federalism can,
by abusing me, be diverted from disturbing
the course of government, they will make me
useful longer than I had expected to be so.
Having served them faithfully for a term of
twelve or fourteen years, in the terrific station
of Rawhead and Bloodybones, it was supposed
that, retired from power, I should have
been functus officio, of course, for them also.
If, nevertheless, they wish my continuance in
that awful office, I yield, and the rather as it
may be exercised at home, without interfering
with the tranquil enjoyment of my farm, my
family, my friends and books. In truth, having
never felt a pain from their abuse. I bear
them no malice.—
To W. D. G. Worthington. Washington ed. v, 504.
(M.
1810)
