University of Virginia Library

RANDOLPH'S UNFITNESS FOR HIGH OFFICE.

We have a county pride (the writer was born and raised
in Charlotte), a State pride, and a national pride in Mr.
Randolph, but we do not regret that he was not made
President of the United States. If, by nothing else, he
was disqualified for that office by his misanthropy.

Whatever pearls there may be in the head, if poison be
in the heart, the man is unfit. One of his biographers
might say he ought never to have occupied the presidential

chair, "because he wanted the profound views of a
great statesman." His views, we submit, were profound
upon every subject he touched. That is not what was
the matter. His affections were too contracted. His
views were indeed profound, but he wished to turn them

Old Court-House at Williamsburg, Va., where Randolph attended
William and Mary College.

to the advantage of his own State only. His mind was
expanded, but he never could expand his soul, so as to
include the entire nation.

It is natural and well for one to desire the prosperity
and glory of his own State; but if his feelings be as intensely
Virginian, as Mr. Randolph's, his ambition should

be limited to the highest position which that State can
confer. And here we take occasion to remark, that the
only act which mars the beauty of Mr. Randolph's political
life was his acceptance of a foreign mission.

We repeat he was not qualified for a high executive
office, nor do we imagine that he was much disappointed
at not being made President of the United States.