4933. MAJORITY, Dissent from.—
It is
true that dissentients have a right to go over
to the minority, and to act with them. But
I do not believe your mind has contemplated
that course; that it has deliberately viewed
the strange company into which it may be
led, step by step, unintended and unperceived
by itself. The example of John Randolph is
a caution to all honest and prudent men, to
sacrifice a little of self-confidence, and to go
with their friends, although they may sometimes
think they are going wrong. * * *
As far as my good will may go (for I can no
longer act), I shall adhere to my government,
Executive and Legislative, and, as long as
they are republican, I shall go with their
measures whether I think them right or
wrong; because I know they are honest, and
are wiser and better informed than I am. In
doing this, however, I shall not give up the
friendship of those who differ from me, and
who have equal right with myself to shape
their own course.—
To William Duane. Washington ed. v, 592.
Ford ed., ix, 316.
(M.
1811)
