Adams, John, 1735-1826 to Samuel B. Malcolm
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05262 Author/Creator: Adams, John, 1735-1826 Place Written: Quincy, Massachusetts Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 6 August 1812 Pagination: 2 p. ; 23.5 x 20 cm Order a Copy
Remarks upon Malcolm's decision to keep himself free of a political party and asks if he has considered the consequences. ". . . this Maxim, has rarely failed to annihilate the Influence of the Man who adopts it and very often exposed him to the tragical Vengence of all Parties." Thoughtfully examines the need for political parties despite their evils. Discusses at length "These two Tyrants... Fashion and Party." Comments that he is sorry Malcolm has left his practice and the bar and would like to see his publications. Condemns the practice of dueling in America stating it is carried out, "to such rancorous deliberate and malicious excess. . ." He concludes with wonderment at Aaron Burr's career, "Colonel Burr; Attorney General Burr; Senator Burr; Vice President Burr; almost President Burr; . . . What is to be, his destiny? Emulation, Rivalry, Ambition, have unlimited Scope, under our forms of Government. We have Seen enough already to admonish Us, what We have to expect in the future." Written to Malcolm in Utica, New York.
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