'

CORRESPONDENCE

OF JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER

OTSEGO HALL

After John Augustus Hows.

CORRESPONDENCE ?:

OF

JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER

EDITED BY HIS GRANDSON JAMES FENIMORE COOPER

VOLUME TWO

NEW HAVEN YALE UNIVERSITY PRESS

LONDON • HUMPHREY MILFORD • OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS

MDCCCCXXII

COPYRIGHT 1Q22 BY JAMES FENIMORE COOPER

P5J$

5

PART THIRD

(CONTINUED)

40' .

1839] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 397

FROM RICHARD RUSH ./-*.. :

Lydenham, near Philadelphia, August 21, 1839 Dear Sir:

Though not my good fortune to know you personally, I can be no stranger to your well-deserved fame, and I should be ashamed of taking my pen at so late a day as this to return you my share of the public thanks for your admirable naval history, the approbation of it at home having already been universal and abroad too, as far as I have seen, but that accidental hindrances prevented my reading it until very lately. Devoted to our navy, I had myself during the war of 1812, when a young and humble member of Mr. Madison's administration, collected some materials for sketches of its brilliant career at that epoch, which I rejoice to think I never used; for you have brought to that part of its history, and all other parts, qualifications so immeasurably in advance of any one else that all will have been instructed by you, as well as de lighted. You have told us all that any other pen could, and much, much more. You have shown all our naval glory in its best lights, yet been just to our great opponent on the ocean; your narratives are distinct and graphic, often enchanting; and your reflections scattered through out the work such as add dignity and value to it — merit ing in many instances the careful consideration of our Legislators and Statesmen. You have given to your country a work greatly wanted; one that from its entire execution as well as matter must become standard, and that will be even more valuable ages hence than now, as you have embalmed much of what would otherwise soon have perished.

I have not been able to repress the expression to you of these my feelings on perusing your work, for which

398 : CORRESPONDENCE OF [1839

I think thfc public gratitude as well as thanks is your due ; and I beg, dear Sir, to tender to you the assurances of great respect with which I am

your obedient Servt and fellow

Countryman Richard Rush

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Friday evening, Oct. 4, 1839 My dear wife,

We reached Henderscfa in good time, and found that Cruger had invited three of his neighbors to dinner. We dined at ^4 past 6, and broke up at 5 the next morning. Cruger took me down to Herkimer, and I got into the cars. The train was late, and I had just time to get into the boat, reached town in a storm, but it cleared up and I passed the day there until 5, when I came on here. Ogden was at Saratoga, but I did a little business. I saw Worth and a few friends, but came off in due time.

Lea & Blanchard have about 250 copies of first edition on hand, and we begin to print to-morrow. The book has a great name, and is looking down opposition. Attempts are to be made against it however, in Rhode Island and in the North American. I am too strong in truth for them. My publishers keep their feet well these hard times, and paid two of their notes to me, $1350, last week. The History, first and last, will make me from $10,000. to $15,000. — with the third volume, quite the latter, I think.

I have been to see Mrs. Rush, but did not find her in. Barton is here, and is about to set up housekeeping, per manently. Willing keeps his house, etc., the meubles be longing to Madame. As for Tom, he has the prospect of a valuable agency. Miss Hall has changed her mind with

1839] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 399

regard to Mr. Pope, in consequence of learning that her cousin, the pretty Miss Coleman, had refused him.

The President is expected here in a day or two, and I shall go and see him. The whole court is turning its head south.

I have not yet seen Tom Stevens. Col. Drayton I have seen, and he has asked me to dine with him. Blanchard has given me a handsome copy of Prescott's Ferdinand and Isabella. Not many new books.

Elliott comes out of the inquiry well. He is acquitted of every thing originally charged, and only censured for a few light incidental matters. Even Biddle I am told acquits him of the Hunter and the Barton charge. Stew art says that there is no ground for a court, and it is said has given a very able opinion. Biddle and Patterson did not agree in particulars, though they think there ought to be a court. Patterson died of apoplexy.

I wish you could have some of the peaches we feast on here. They are still abundant, and perfectly delicious. I think of you whenever I eat one, and that is thinking of you pretty often. I shall write again in a few days. My love to all, and tenderest regard for yourself.

J. F. C.

Cruger has given up his dinner party for the 4th, faute de convives.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Oct. 5th, 1839 My dearest wife,

Every thing is in motion here, but I cannot return for ten or twelve days yet. Indeed I think all my arrange ments ought now to be made for the winter. I wish very much to bring the girls down, and now think Philadelphia

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must be the place. I am looking for lodgings, but as yet without success. The novel [ The Pathfinder'} and history are both in press. The latter is doing very well, and my publishers told me this morning that it might still be made worth a large sum of money to me. They value it, as a selling book, very high. They have proposed this morning, to print 3000 copies, second edition, instead of 2000, which, if I accept, will be $700 more in my pocket. With this sum, I shall have netted already $6000 for my last winter's work, of which part is invested in the McNamee house and part in the Pomeroy purchase. We shall now begin to accumulate again, as I have nothing to pay except for investments. The Naval History is the best hit I have made, and I now give a month's time to render ing it more complete and perfect. Everybody thinks well of it, and the Perry party will, in the end, be silenced.

Mr. Van Buren is carrying everything before him, j and, out of question, will be re-elected. Mr. and Mrs. Poinsett are now in the house, but I have not yet seen them.

We had a bad fire last night close to us, and some thirty or forty buildings have been burned. The times are very hard, but my people stand firm.

Mrs. Willing has invited me this evening to meet a Lady C. Harcourt, so she still keeps in the beau monde. I see no difference in Tom's appearance.

I have no intention of purchasing Apple Hill at the present price — I once thought of it, as a speculation.

I never distrusted your management of Paul a I' excep tion pris de trop de faiblesse, on the score of his health. Neither of the ladies you mention are authorities for us, both being notoriously feeble as regards their children.

You must write me again to this place. On Monday I

1839] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 401

dine with Mr. Rush, and on Tuesday or Wednesday, I think I shall go to Washington. I ought to go, to render the history better, and the time now presses.

I have dined with Ingersoll, and he says that he will come and see us next summer. The young ladies say they are agreeable and have been all along.

If any letter comes soon that seems to be large, send it to me, as I expect some materials for the history. Your best way will be to open the letters and judge for your self.

Adieu, my love, bless you all.

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Oct. 8th, 1839 My dearest wife,

I am still detained here, for the History is of too much importance to be neglected. I am essentially improving it, and trying to make it a standard work. My absence from home, too, just now can do no harm. I shall wait for a summons to return.

Mr. Maitland has been here. He gives a sad account of James, and I am afraid one that is too true. If what he says is correct, the boy is radically vicious. Your brother will probably let you into the whole affair, when you see him. It is much worse, however, than I had supposed. Mrs. De L — has bought Mrs. Maitland's farm near New Windsor for $11,000, and intends to build. It would seem that, in addition to the main fault, there has been a love affair, and a sort of an engagement. I fore told difficulty from the Yankee arrangement, but Jim, himself, must be inherently bad, or Mr. M — is a sad fellow.

402 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1839

I did not like the manner of the lad. As for his keep ing the matter secret, I do not believe a word of it. He made good professions of a desire to do so, and just as I ceased to inquire out of delicacy, he blurted out the whole matter. By his own confessions he ferreted out the secret, when both the Bishop and Mrs. De L. — wished to keep it from him. I can now believe most of what we have heard of him.

I dined yesterday with Mrs. Rush. We had a party of six or seven and a handsome dinner. They were exceed ingly civil. Indeed, the history seems to have done more than any of my books.

Now what shall I say about the winter*? I cannot find lodgings here, and money is so scarce that I am almost afraid to venture. Still, I think it must be done. I have a project, however, and as this letter will not go until after the arrival of the Liverpool, you shall know some thing more decisive by it. At all events, if you cannot come down this winter, you shall see the Falls next Summer, God willing. Friday.

I am here yet, busy with both books. The Navy Com missioners are here also, and that is a great assistance to me. I cannot get home until next week — the close of it— but am negotiating for a furnished house in this place. I do not think I shall get it, on account of the price, but shall see.

Tristam Burges is out, and a most miserable failure it is, the most absurd stuff I have ever seen. I am invited by Gen. Well, the Senator from New Jersey, to meet the President at dinner, at Burlington, next Sunday, but shall not go. My way is clear for preferment if I wish it, but you know I do not wish it.

1839] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 403

I understand there is a review in the North American. This was expected to be done by Slidell, and to treat of the Lake Erie affair. I am told that it is favorable to the book, in the main.

Times look very squally. For myself, I think we have seen the worst, but in England matters are§ serious. The Bank of England will probably suspend, and that will be to our advantage on the whole.

The first volume of Pathfinder is nearly printed. Naval History gets on slowly, and I am not sorry, as new facts accumulate.

Dr. Hare has just invited me to dine, but I am engaged with the Commissioners, and must close. I am perfectly well, and everybody compliments me on my good looks.

Adieu, my best love — tenderest regards to all.

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Saturday, Oct. igth [1839] Dearest —

Here I am yet, when I ought to be at Albany, but the two books have detained me, and I am determined to make a good job of them. I do not think we shall quit the Hall this autumn, if we do this winter. The times are so fearfully bad, just now, that I am afraid to venture out of my shell, though I expect a quiet winter, as to my own affairs. I have but one new work, and I shall not write the third volume of the history immediately, if I ever write it.

I expect to quit Philadelphia next week, most prob ably Tuesday, and shall be home in a day or two. The hostile feeling which exists between N. York and Phila delphia, at this moment, amounts almost to war. The

404 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1839

pockets of the knaves are touched, on both sides, and that is touching all the principles they have. God protect the country that has nothing but commercial towns for capitals !

Tristam Burges has come out with his monody on Lake Erie — likewise — Mackenzie — Slidell, in the North American. The first is bombastical, silly, and absurd. I believe everybody but Charles King laughs at it. You can form an idea of his logic by one specimen. "At one-half past 2, the wind springing up, Capt. Elliott was enabled to bring the Niagara gallantly into close action." These are Perry's words. Now, says Tristam, Perry does not say that Elliott did bring his vessel, etc., but that he was enabled to bring the Niagara, etc. What do you think of this for your free logic?

Mackenzie is superficial and Jesuitical. He does not meet the question fairly, cavils at the plainest significa tions, and shows anything but honesty or talent. Neither is personally abusive, though Mackenzie is false. This review alone satisfies me as to the man's character. He wants candor and a sense of right.

The history, notwithstanding, will carry all before it. It is well spoken of in England, I hear, and will main tain its ground. When abridged, it will be worth $joo a year to me, for the next twenty-eight years ; and of course for my life — nothing can drive .me but new occurrences.

The first volume of Pathfinder is printed — the second is not yet written. The first volume of History is also nearly done, but I cannot stay to finish either.

I got a letter from r administration des Postes — Bureau des Rebuts et Reclamations, informing me that a letter addressed to Ma'm'selle C. Fenimore Cooper is

1839] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 405

detained faute de dzx centimes. So much for matters of state.

Adieu, my best love.

J. F. C.

On the flyleaf of a small pocket memorandum book carried by Cooper about this time is the following entry in his hand, written in pencil and corrected in ink:

"Dr. Swift heard Lawrence's last words, which were — 'Go on deck and tell Mr. Budd to fight the ship until she sinks.' "

FROM A. J. BLEECKER AND W. IRVING

New York, 14th Nov., 1839 My dear Sir

I avail myself of the permission afforded me in your kind letter of the 24th inst. to point out the way in which you can assist me in my application for the Marshalship of this District, and I entertain the hope that you will not think me presumptious in arraying my own opinion against yours as to the propriety of the course proposed. As the appointment will probably be made at an earlier period than that at which you visit Washington (the term of office of the Incumbent expiring on the 14th Dec. next), unless I obtain a letter from you to the President I shall be deprived of the benefit of being known to enjoy your good opinion, and in default of that advantage may not be sufficiently strong to succeed against the multitude of competitors who are striving vigorously for the prize. I make due allowance for the sensitiveness of literary gentlemen in matters of this nature and did I not fully appreciate the value of your name and influence I should hesitate in asking your friendly aid after the intimation you have given of your distrust as to the propriety of affording it in the manner suggested. But that I may not

406 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1839

be censored for extreme selfishness in taxing your friend ship at the expense of your better judgement I assure you I have precedent for the favor solicited, sufficient to satisfy the most fastidious. Gov. Mahlon Dickerson and Dr. Milledoln of N. Jersey have written me letters, also Mr. Jewett late member of Congress from Onondaga and other friends in Utica and Geneva, all out of the district, and Gov. Van Ness of Vermont has likewise contributed his good word in my behalf. The views you express of my claims as a New Yorker are precisely those I should like to have presented to the President, and you give me the strongest encouragement to be importunate in asking for a letter, by the knowledge you have afforded me of your sentiments on this subject. This is precisely the ground taken by Washington Irving, Esq., who favored me with an excellent letter, a copy of which I attach to show you how exactly your views agree as to the strong points of my case. Apologising for the trouble I am giving you, I am dear Sir,

With sincere regard and esteem

Yours truly Anthony J. Bleecker. J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq. Letter attached.

Greenburgh, Nov. 2, 1839 My dear Sir

The recommendation of Mr. Anthony J. Bleecker for the office of U. S. Marshall for this district is I believe already before you backed by many of the weightiest friends of the administration. To this let me add my good word in his behalf as a gentleman of high integrity and much ability and well qualified to discharge the duties of

1839] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 407

the office; let me moreover speak of him in a point of view that I confess has great interest with me as one of the original well-tried stock of "Old Yorkers" who ought to be cherished and taken care of as the real seed corn of our population

ever with truest regard

yours

(signed) Washington Irving Martin Van Buren, President of U. S.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Stevenson's [Albany], Saturday morning,

Dec. 14, 1839 Dearest —

I was alone to Springfield, when a deaf snuffy old woman was added to my delights. The road was not very bad and, though the weather was menacing, the day be came mild and soft. It is now like October. I am at Congress Hall, and have passed the morning with the Lt. Governor and Stevenson.

The latter tells me that Watson, Betty's husband, is a notoriously bad character, a long established loafer, though he was once in apparent prosperity. The state prison must correct him. This has been his character a long time.

Bradish is smiling and well. Left us to go somewhere with his wife. We provoked James, as the French say, to marry this or that young lady. He has had the fitting up of a new Senate Chamber, which, with his new wife, makes him perfectly happy. He has shown his usual state in the Chamber; how it is with the wife I do not know, as I have not seen the lady.

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The Manor War is over for the present, but the evil lies deeper than the surface. No blood has been shed, and none will be, I think. But no man can hold such an estate as Rensselaer's in this country, unless he is in a situation to be constantly conferring favors. The end will show. It is said that an attempt has been made to set fire to a barn occupied by troops, and that the incendiary was taken in the act.

I have passed the morning looking at new buildings. Black walnut is much used and is very handsome. The new Church, late theatre, is pretty well in some respects, and bad in others. The pews are decidedly inferior to ours in the way of comfort, the seats and backs inclining too much for comfort, and kneeling boards being too narrow. The chancel is a circle with kneeling board all round it, and organ loft low. The general effect is a want of a churchly character. This is Mr. Kip's new building. It is large, having near 200 pews, near the size of ours.

I go down this evening, and shall dine to-morrow at Head's if nothing happens.

Adieu, my love, with kisses to all.

Your J. F. C.

Ladies' hats very small and very pretty.

James Stevenson was a prominent and well-to-do Albanian, an attorney, and mayor of the city for the years 1826 to 1828. He was a bachelor and brought up in his house his three nieces. He died in 1852.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Thursday morning, Dec. 19, 1839 My dear Wife —

We had a bad time from Albany down the river. There was no ice, but such a snow storm arose that we were

1839] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 409

compelled to anchor near Newburgh. Next morning we ran ashore in Tappan, and lay several hours. It was dark when we reached New York. I passed the evening with Mrs. Cruger, and listened to lots of anecdotes. Cruger was still at Henderson, where he has passed the autumn. His wife has not seen him these three months, but laughs at his absence. There is an example for you !

I got here on Monday, and we began work on Wednes day. The delay will keep me here until New Year's. I shall not be much longer going back than I was in coming.

The new edition of the history is not yet published, though it is nearly ready. I have been reading over the manuscript of the novel [The Pathfinder], and think pretty well of it. The three last chapters must be strong, however, to give it much success.

Philadelphia is gay, by report; Mrs. Charles Ingersoll my informant. Harris' will, I hear, is a curiosity, the ruling passion governing to the last moment. He manages to let the world know that he has represented his country in Russia and France, had received a snuff box from Alexander. He gives Madame Tousard 20,000 francs, a few other similar legacies, and leaves about $70,000. To Lady Adelaide Forbes, a cousin of Lady William Rus sell, he sends a sealed packet — no doubt containing her letters. He died in consequence of catching cold by going to Russia to attend the wedding of the young princess with the Due de Leuchtenberg. Peace be to his soul.

My affairs here look pretty well. Elliott is here, and is looking up in fact, though a good deal discouraged in feeling. The English review attracts no attention, and Slidell still less, if possible; Burges is laughed at. The book stands its ground.

The wine is paid for, and gloves and stockings will be

410 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1839

remembered. I know the pretty hands too well to require a memorandum to buy small gloves.

M. de Saligny is here, fresh from France — charge d'affaires to Texas — swears it is a good country, and pre fers Austin to Washington. Thinks Dr. Smith passion ate, but a man of talents, and un richard.

There has been another terrible bank explosion, in this town. The cashier of the Schuylkill bank appears to have issued $1,300,000 of scrip fraudulently, and has de camped. The bank has stopped payment they say, though what that is it is not easy to explain, as all had stopped paying specie !

God bless you all, and rest assured of my tenderest love.

Yours,

J. F. C.

No court martial as yet ordered on Elliott. No Tom Stevens visible.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Philadelphia, Dec. [20 or 21], 1839 Dearest Wife—

Pathfinder •, Vol. II, is about a third printed. The weather has been cold here, is now more moderate, and it is snowing famously at this instant.

I have not seen Mrs. Read — no one indeed but Mrs. C. Ingersoll, though I dine to-day with Cadwalader.

Rogers from Paris is here, as are Saligny, young Deacon, and one or two Parisians. The former thinks this country in a most deplorable state, and says Welles has gone back disgusted, with a determination to quit business and cut America. His wife is in the same mood. I do not

1839] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 411

know that they are wrong, for each hour reveals some scene of fearful roguery.

Barton is here sans femme. Mrs. Livingston has dis located her hip, cannot travel, and her daughter stays with her. He is in his house, en gar g on.

The Vespucii is in bad odour, though they tell lies of her. She commenced, I suspect, however, by bouncing about herself.

I am invited to a large party at Mrs. Hare's next Monday, but shall make my excuses. There is no tempta tion to me in going to these evenings. Other invitations would follow, and my time would not be my own.

Adieu, my dearest love, with tenderest affection to you all. Every body says I am a miracle of fat.

J. Fenimore Cooper

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Philadelphia, Dec. 25th, 1839 My dearest Sue —

A merry Christmas to you, and to all of our dear chil dren. I regret not being able to be with you to-day, but shall think of you all at dinner, and thank you for many good wishes that I feel certain are held in reserve for me. I have not received a single line from home since I left there, though this will make the fourth letter I have written.

About half of the last volume of Pathfinder is printed, but this is an unlucky moment to be here, there are so many holidays, and then the printers have their blue days after every festival. This Monday, even, is a bad day, not half the printers working. In plain English, they get drunk one day and sober the next. I do not expect to get away from here, until about the 5th or 6th of January;

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which will extend my absence to something more than three weeks.

We have a delightful day, and I have been to mass! The music was good, though a little too dramatical, and the genuflexions as usual. It reminded me strongly of Europe, to be again in a catholic church. I went to the chapel which stood a cote de nous. It was filled with Irish of a class better than usual.

I am amazed and shocked with the drunkenness that appears in the streets of Philadelphia to-day. I have seen nothing like it, before, since our return home. Most of the drunkards have been young men, too — apprentices appar ently- — and roaring drunk.

I hear the Rensselaers live here in good style. The young ladies have the reputation of possessing $16,000 per an. each, and all the elegants are on the alert. — $6000 might be nearer the mark, for their property is not productive. Mrs Rush tells me they keep five carriages — two of which, no doubt, belong to the young men, and one to each of the ladies. Mrs. Rush said she thought Miss Euphemia very lady like. I told her yes, but that they did not belong to the New- York school. There is a report that one is attached to John Van Buren, but will not marry him, on account of her mother's opposition. But gossip, gossip — all is gossip.

Most affectionately and tenderly yours,

J. F. C.

TO H. BLEECKER

Hall, Cooperstown, April 22d, 1840 My Dear Sir,

Mrs. Temple Palmer of New York, a daughter of the late Sir John Temple, is desirous of possessing letters to

i84o] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 413

our Legation at Brussels, and has written to me to pro cure one. Now I do not know who the charge is, but one of my daughters affirms that you have lately been sent there from the Hague. I have defended you from this accusation in vain, resolutely maintaining that you would not go from the pure Doric of Amsterdam to the patois of Brabant, but I am obliged to yield. At all events you are somewhere in that quarter of the world, and may give Mrs. Palmer a letter to the Brussels charge, if you are not the man. I can only say that she and her daughter are acquaintances of ours that we made in Europe, and. have continued at home, and that you ought to be thankful for an opportunity to know them.

I see your old friend Theo. Sedgwick is dead, but young Theodore promises to fill his place worthily. B radish, you probably are aware, is married, and every body says is more in love than boys are apt to be at six teen. I am told he kept his eyes riveted on his young wife during the time consumed in reading the Governor's mes sage, and that must have been something like a week. Stevenson, who is a little spiteful at any one who gets married, circulates these stories.

Well, can the Hollanders really speak Dutch? Poor Coster (whilom of The Statesman) used to affirm that there was no French at Paris, as he could neither under stand nor be understood. I wish devoutly I could spend an hour or two in some of the galleries that are within your reach, and look once more at the noble churches and quaint old houses of Antwerp. Can you fancy that the people who built the old church at the junction of State and Market Streets, actually reared the towers of Mech lin, Antwerp, and the Hotel de Ville of Brussels'?

I have just been revolutionizing Christ Church,

4H CORRESPONDENCE OF [1840

Cooperstown, not turning out a vestry, but converting its pine interior into oak — bona -fide oak — and erecting a screen that I trust, though it may have no influence on my soul, will carry my name down to posterity. It is really a pretty thing — pure gothic, and is the wonder of the country round.

I wish you all happiness, my dear Sir, and consider my self fortunate in having this opportunity of reminding you of my existence.

Yours very sincerely

J. Fenimore Cooper.

The above was written to Harmanus Bleecker of Albany, New York, and the reference is to the old square Dutch Church which for years stood in the centre of State Street, Albany, at the inter section of what is now known as Broadway.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Philadelphia, Thursday, [May] 14th, 1840 Lea has sold near 4000 of Pathfinder. It has great success, in the worst of times. Indeed, it is the only thing that does sell. The opposition reviews are laughed at. They have done me no harm, and themselves a great deal.

TO THE EDITORS OF The Journal of Commerce, NEW YORK

Cooperstown, June i8th, 1840 Messrs. Editors,

You have published a short notice of my suit against Mr. Weed, directly censuring me for having brought this and other actions for libels against certain editors of newspapers. As no declaration has yet been drawn up in

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 415

the case of Mr. Weed, it is not possible that you should know the particular wrong of which I complain, and your remarks must have been made on general principles, or on no principles at all. As my actions are for what are tech nically called torts, they are no more fit subjects for news paper comments than any other similar suits; unless, in deed, you wish to support the doctrine that an editor is not to be held responsible for this species of injustice, like another citizen. Under the circumstances, or after having made my private affairs the subject of your public re marks, I trust you will, at least, so far respect a very obvious principle of right as to give currency to my answer, or, perhaps, as it might be better to term this communication, to my questions. A libel suit is brought for any printed, or written matter that has a tendency to bring a man into disrepute with the world. Three essen tial conditions are indispensable to the success of the suit : viz., the published matter must be injurious in its nature; it must be false; and it must be maliciously uttered. Now, do you wish to claim that an editor of a newspaper has a right to circulate that which is injurious, false, and mali cious, of his fellow creatures, with impunity? Or, do you wish to say that I have no right to the remedies that the law accords to other men ?

Possibly you may answer that it was your wish to give me advice. If so, permit me to say that this advice would have been more gracefully offered had you waited until I had asked for it. What would you have thought had I inserted a paragraph in a book, giving it as an opinion that Messrs. Hale and Halleck would have done better not to have brought a particular action for a private wrong? Has not the author of a book the same right to obtrude on the public his private opinions concerning the

416 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1840

private affairs of his fellow citizens, as the editors of newspapers? Or have the latter, in your estimation, acquired rights by the long and gross abuses that they have practiced, in connection with this subject, that are peculiar to themselves?

My libel suits are termed by a portion of the press "a crusade against the press." Agreeably to Johnson, a "cru sade" is "an expedition against Infidels." But, putting aside any refinement on significations, on what principle can one who is defending himself be termed the assailant? Can an action for a tort be maintained, unless a wrong has been previously done? Does the number of these wrongs give a claim to any extenuation of the injuries? Is it not rather an aggravation? Are not the assaults of many upon one a proof that the many feel the inherent weakness of their cause? Are they not base? Are they not cowardly? Is it a sign of contempt, or a sign of secret respect, that a hundred join in a cry against one? Is con tempt a noisy or a silent state of the human mind ?

Is it not the law of the land that the editor who pub lishes any thing, pending a suit, that has a tendency to impair the rights of either of the parties, is guilty of a high misdemeanor, and renders himself liable to an indict ment for what is technically called a "Libel on Justice"? Do not the authorities say that the courts have always visited real offences with signal punishments? Do you think the courts would have the same opinion of the privi leges and power of editors, in the case of a conviction for such an offense, as the editors entertain themselves? Do you believe that the patience of the public is inexhaust ible, or do you discover symptoms that it is beginning to view the press with a disfavor that, in the end, may not only curtail its abuses, but which may even curtail its

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 417

power to our good? And did you ever know a grave moral wrong persevered in, for any material time, that did not, in the end, recoil on those who committed it and bring with it its own punishment?

Allow me to proceed a little further. Are the opinions of the press any more than the opinions of so many men who have the control of the journals? Are not these opinions, too often, dishonestly and fraudulently uttered? Is "the verdict of the press," as some editors compla cently term the opinions of certain members of this corps concerning my libel suits, anything more than the opinion of those editors in a matter touching their own pride and interests? Will this verdict be an offset, either in the judgment of the community, or in the way of money, to any verdict that I may obtain from twelve sworn jurors? If not, would you, or would any sensible man, care a button about this "verdict of the press," or about those who give it currency? Is it not a common expression in the mouths of men, that such and such reports are merely "newspaper lies," and are not these expressions, and the opinions on which they are based, becoming daily more frequent? Would not the boy who cried wolf when there was no wolf, come in time to be disbelieved when there was a wolf? In a word, would it not be discreet for that portion of the press that does regard truth, justice, fair dealing, decency, propriety, and the rights of others, to attempt to draw a wide distinction between those who do not regard these considerations and themselves, and can they make a better commencement than to manifest a respect for the privileges of individuals, and not only to exclude from their columns all comments on the private affairs of their fellow citizens as a usurpation of an odious power, but, as far as possible, all comments of their own

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as an offense against good taste and the respect due their subscribers *?

Yours, etc.,

J. Fenimore Cooper.

Should you decline publishing this letter, I beg you will send it to the counting room of J. D. P. Ogden and Co., Wall Street, directed to me, "to be left until called for."

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Tuesday, [August] 25th, 1840

My dearest wife,

Mercedes is getting on well, but cannot be finished, as / have not yet finished.

On Sunday I went to Germantown with Ingersoll and dined with old Mr. Chew. Of course I saw the celebrated house, which still retains the honorable marks of the attack. It was, and is, a strong position, and could only be carried by artillery, and that pretty heavy. We had at table, Mr., Mrs., Miss and young Mr. Chew, two Misses Dallas, Ingersoll and myself. On the whole, a pleasant day.

I shall dine once only with Ingersoll, though asked oftener, and nowhere else. I have seen the Ervings twice, and have taken leave of them. Elwyn was enchanting. The old lady certainly eschews Tilly, scarce ever looked at her, though the latter tries hard to catch a smile. There is some extraordinary mystery, and I think the old lady intimated as much to me.

Four of Elliott's judges were for cashiering him, and it is said they were Jones, Downes, Warrington and

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 419

Kennedy. I doubt the two last. His sentence is generally thought severe.

What a frightful accident at Albany ! None but geese, however, would thus crowd a draw.

Mr. Stone has at last answered my repeated calls on him about the two brigs, admitting that his correspondent was in error, and saying that, no doubt, he was misled by various newspapers. I have renewed my call for one of these newspapers, and otherwise have demolished him. Even the whig papers here have come out on my side.

Politics are running at the full. The election will be fierce and doubtful. You have a letter from Dr. Hare, his sister having brought it on as far as New York.

Adieu, my best love. Kiss our children and believe me tenderly yours

J. F. C.

TO PAUL FENIMORE COOPER, GENEVA, NEW YORK

Home, Cooperstown, Sept. i8th, 1840 My dear boy,

I did not intend to write to you so soon, but your dear mother thinks you will be curious to know what has been done in the cases of Mr. Webb. There have been no trials, both indictments being carried up to the Supreme Court, under the following circumstances.

The false statement of the New World, we found, had been sent to every juror, or to all but eight, and these eight confessed they had not been to any post office since the publication. More than thirty had actually received them. Hundreds of others had been sent into the county, and we were told the Whigs were making the question a party question, in order to save their editor. We found moreover that the County Court judges shrunk from the

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question, and had little confidence in sentence, in the event of a conviction. The counsel for the prosecution, therefore, advised an application to the Supreme Court to stay proceedings, with a view to take the trial out of the county. This I opposed, advising Mr. Crippen to bring on the last indictment, that which accused me of having smuggled the first bill through the Grand Jury first. This would clear the other indictment up, and en able us to ascertain how far the jury was impartial, since that case could admit of no doubt.

Mr. Webb resisted this course, but the court decided we might try the second indictment first. They then asked time to prepare, pretending they had not yet got ready in that case. This was granted them. This morning they came into court with an order from the Chief Justice to carry the second indictment up to the Supreme Court, to ascertain if it were libellous. This gives us an advantage on trial, as it takes the matter entirely out of the hands of the County Court Judges. It will cause a delay of some months, however. Finding ourselves foiled in this case, and satisfied a fair trial could not be had in this village, we made a similar application in the other case, with a view to change the venue. I hope Mr. Webb may still be tried on both indictments, in November. This is the truth^ and you must disregard all other accounts. I ought to have added that the court decided that we ought to try the second indictment, or suffer a nolle prosequi to be entered, Judge Gridley differing from the three county court judges. But this was a minor affair, and does not affect the state of the case. I now leave your sisters to finish the letter.

The state of agitation and excitement we have been in for the last three days is truly pitiable — and all owing to

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 421

this nasty trial — it is however over now for a short time, and we can breathe freely again. You will be sorry to hear, dearest brother, that poor Richard Morris is dead- he died night before last after a fortnight's illness — after all, Mrs. Baker had not exaggerated when she said he was so sick. I was very much shocked to hear of his death and was very, very sorry. Dick was always a favorite of mine. I think he was the nicest of those boys. We are very anxious to hear from you, and know a little about your examination, how it went off, etc., etc. I hope you are not on your way back, but that there is a long letter some where on the road for us. There has been no explosion as yet with the Duffs, so I hope we shall be able to keep up a cool intercourse, for of all things a quarrel is what I hate, for besides being wrong, it is so vulgar. Charlotte is a good deal better. She has taken a drive every day since you left us and she attributes her improvement to these drives. Mr. Duff has opened his school with eighteen boys, no Warrens but in their stead two of Dr. Brand- reth's sons — these young "pills" are to have a horse apiece to take exercise on every day. I should not be sur prised if Mr. Duff insisted upon each of his other scholars having a horse, and it would produce the better effect if his boys went to church on horseback than on foot. Mrs. Duff overheard one of the young Brandreths tell some of the boys that he had once injured his face and hands very badly playing with some powder which had exploded while he was leaning over it, but that his father's pills had cured it all. Joe Foss brought us up some very nice peaches. I am in the act of eating one now. I take it you have plenty. Roy is returned and is now at school, We miss you, dearest Paul, very very much indeed — the house is so quiet we quite long for a little noise. I hope you are

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not disgracing us by yelling at any party; if you should feel the fit coming on, pray retire as fast as possible. Your slippers are nearly finished — you will get them when aunties go on to Geneva. Ned's are a little further ad vanced than yours. If Tom Rochester is in Geneva we all beg to be remembered to him. The Jones have gone — you have now all the news. Give our love to all at Uncle's. Every member of the family sends you a most affectionate kiss. Believe me, your sincerely attached sister

Cally.

I have a horrid pen, so you must excuse my writing. The next letter you receive shall be more entertaining.

FROM RICHARD H. DANA

Boston, Sept. 23, 1840 My dear Sir,

I have been so little before the public since you and I met some fifteen or sixteen years ago in New York, that upon looking at my signature you may be likely to say to yourself — Dana! Dana! — Who is he? — O, I do now recollect !

My son was desirous that you should receive a copy of his Journal. But being unknown to you, and hardly feeling that this little matte r-o' -fact volume entitled him, as an author, to take the liberty of sending you the work directly from himself, he put me in commission to do it. When half through college the measles left his eyes in so bad a condition that, losing all hope of recovery by the usual methods, he made up his mind to try the effect of a voyage before the mast. As I found that he had looked calmly at all the disagreeables of such a condition,

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 423

that, as he said, if it did not cure his eyes, it would, at least, fit him for active life, I yielded to his wishes, con sidering though he had been delicately brought up, and was not of a robust frame, that he had a firm mind, Fal- stafFs great reliance — "the spirit." He returned with his eyes cured, entered the Senior Class, has since gone thro' the course of law studies, and has now opened an office here, with good prospects, I trust, of a fair standing in his profession. The little book will tell you the rest.

I have gone through with a great deal of sickness since you and I met, and in my best estate have been feeble. This, together with the entire unprofitableness of litera ture to me (who so lack the "means whereby we live"), took the heart out of me and I have done comparatively nothing. Lately I have been hawking about a few half literary lectures — a work I hate — which has done me somewhat better service. Let me, before I stop, thank you for helping to lighten by your writings so many of my solitary and weary hours. Though it is a long time since you have been among us, you have, nevertheless, often contributed your full share in making the time pleasant which my brother, whom you may possibly remember, and Mr Aleston and myself have past together. With sincere regards,

dear Sir, Y'rs

To Richd H. Dana

J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq.

I had laid this aside for a moment, when, upon open ing the vol. just sent to me, I found in 5th Chap, that Ames's work is spoken of as the only one written by a hand before the mast. I had looked over the MS. some time back; and it is singular that the story of your first

424 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1840

going to sea, which I once heard you tell so graphically, did not occur to me, that I might have set my son right. However, the world has been so curious about all that concerns you, that almost every reader of this Journal will correct the error for himself.

You must excuse my oversight in the order or, rather, disorder in the pages of this letter.

Richard Henry Dana was born in 1787 and died in 1879. He was an essayist and poet of some distinction. He also wrote stories and was the first editor of the North American Review.

His son, Richard Henry Dana, Jr., was born in 1815 and was also a writer and author of Two Years before the Mast. Both were lawyers.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Macedonian^ New York, Oct. loth, 1840 Dearest,

I found the Shubricks at the City Hotel. The ladies left town for Baltimore this morning, and I did expect we should sail to-morrow, but the Concord got up only this morning, and cannot be ready before the middle of next week. This destroys my cruise, as I cannot spare the time, so I go to Philadelphia to-morrow and commence work immediately. I regret this change, but cannot help it.

The town is full, but I should think not gay. I have seen no one, with the exception of a few persons in the street. Not a familiar face that I know.

I have come off to-day to make a feast on chowder with S hub rick, but must go ashore again to-night. We own a ship of the line, a frigate, and a sloop of war, and make a figure. This ship is in fine order.

Shubrick did not wish to leave the squadron. The offer

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 425

came from the Department, and probably has a political bearing. The election effects are tremendous, and no one knows what will be the result. I shall try to be back in time to vote. Everybody thinks and talks politics. Of course Miss Shubrick is delighted.

Shubrick sends his best regards, and the ladies left their kindest love. Mary is looking pretty, and Mrs. S — as usual, thin.

When you write to Paul, give my love to him. I cannot send him a journal of a cruise, so he must read Mercedes to make amends.

The chowder waits, and I am as ever, tenderly yours, and the girls'.

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

U. S. S. Macedonian, off the Battery,

Thursday, Oct. i^th, 1840 My dear Sue,

You will be surprised at the date of this letter. Shu brick urged me so strongly to go round with him that I came on board last Monday, and we have been living together ever since. I have revived my manuscript, and am now finishing the book [Mercedes of Ga$tile"\ afloat. This will not occasion much delay, if any, and I shall get my cruise. We eat, drink, and sleep on board. Our mess is composed of Shubrick, Capt. Rousseau, and myself. Rousseau, however, leaves us to-morrow, being relieved from the command of the ship. All the officers are apply ing to leave, now that Shubrick gives up the command. Certainly she is a model vessel, and is every way a finer frigate than I had expected to see. I never knew a better regulated, a quieter, or a more united ship's company.

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We sail to-morrow, unless the wind gets foul. At pres ent it is fair, and the weather is very fine, and I hope to be in Philadelphia by Tuesday next — Wednesday at farthest — hence to the election, certainly.

Alfred was on board here to-day, under the care of Com. Bill. Shubrick thinks now he can give the last a berth in the yard, and one reason I have for going round is to see what can be done for him, though the desire for a little cruise is strong within me. Capt. Newton, our cousin Capt. Newton, has just been on board here. He commands the Fulton, and his wife is with him. We are five men of war, lying together, viz., North Carolina 80, Macedonian 36, Concord 20 and Washington 6, besides the Fulton. I have seen your sisters twice, and shall try to see them again before I sail. The Doctor must now be in town. I met Mr. Ransom yesterday — he had begged $160, and finds every body poor. My employments here prevent me from being much on shore. The Commodore is gone to what one of our captains calls a "dejeuner a la fornichette" on board a yacht of John Stevens' called the Ry-kee-wy-ke, or The Feather that Floats. I have de clined being of the party, in order to get on with Mercedes.

Bill is waiting for my letter, and I have only time to give tenderest love for all, keeping the largest share for yourself. Adieu. T F O -

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

U. S. Ship Macedonian, Sandy Hook,

Oct. lyth, 1840 My dearest wife,

Here we are, at last, at anchor about a cable's length from the spot where we anchored on arriving in '33. The

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 427

wind is light at the Eastward, and it is questionable if we get to sea even to-night. We shall try, nevertheless, and I still hope to be in Philadelphia by the twentieth. I have seen your sisters again — no bishop — and I think it probable they will go up with me. Mrs. Yates is still in the country.

We are very comfortable on board, where I have now been living these six days. I work on Mercedes in the morning, take a row with the Commodore afterwards, and have been ashore once every day. Now, we do not expect to land again, the Ariel, S hub rick's gig, being in the painter's hands. The ship is quiet and orderly, and we can just hear the band playing on the poop, with the cabin doors shut. Shubrick has a good many books, and the time passes swiftly. The last week has been a very short one — short since I got afloat.

Capt. Rousseau left us night before last, having got relieved as soon as he found Shubrick was to give up the Squadron. The Concord is at anchor a cable's length astern. This ship Shubrick calls his tail, and a very nice- looking tail she is.

I have been reading Collingwood's letters. He says that for twenty years he scarcely saw his wife — one year excepted — and I have thought how you would stand that. Well, one is better with a wife, certainly, than without one, and I believe, notwithstanding the talk, I miss you quite as much as you miss me.

I feel a little the effects of the easterly wind, but not

[as much as usual. We are looking out for the English steamer, which is expected every moment, when we shall endeavor to get the news out of her. But, as time and tide stop for no man, so it is also with Steam Boats, and we may not succeed.

428 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1840

Sunday morning. We are now just outside the Hook, a little doubtful if we cross the bar this tide. The Presi dent in sight about ten miles to seaward. The weather is pleasant, and the wind southeast — southerly — or ahead. Adieu, my love, with blessings and tenderest regards —

Yours ever

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Oct. 28th, 1840 My dearest oue,

Here I am again, hard at work, in my dressing gown, and once more an author. The Doctor has been here, but has gone to Baltimore. He returns to-day, or to-morrow, when I shall see him, of course. Everyone says that he looks very well. I have seen the Ervings, over mothered as usual, though I did not see the last. The non-pareil was asleep.

But the greatest treat were your two letters. You speak of mine from the Hook, as if you had not got one written on board the ship a few days previously. Void TJiistoire de mes mouvements.

Mrs. Shubrick and Mary left New York Saturday morning in charge of Col. Wetherel. On Monday morn ing the Commodore, Captain Rousseau and myself went on board ship, to remain. The Concord could not be got ready until Friday morning. Rousseau left us for New Orleans, being detached at his own request. Shubrick and myself passed our time very pleasantly, having two boats at our command. Sometimes we pulled to one place, and sometimes to another. Every day we dined on board, bur gundy being both good and abundant.

On Saturday, at sun rise, we got under way, with the

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 429

wind at northeast, and dropped down to the hook. Here we were met with an easterly wind and a flood tide, which compelled us to anchor. Early next morning we got to sea, crossing the bar with a south east wind, which was dead ahead. Just as the pilot left us, the President Steamship passed us, bound in. At that moment the Con cord saluted Shubrick's pennant, and we returned the salute, both of which salvoes it is probable John took to himself. At sunset it was blowing fresh, still at s. east. Next day, about noon; we made the coast of New Jersey, at Barnegat Light — stood off to sea, and lost sight of the land about 3 P. M. A squally, dirty night, with a good deal of sea. Next day, Tuesday, made the land again about 15 miles to the southward of Barnegat, or near Little Egg Harbor. Hauled off the land, and ran fifty miles to seaward, Wednesday all day turning to wind ward, near south and southwesterly, keeping well at sea. About midnight on Wednesday the wind came out of the northwest, and at day light it was blowing heavily. We hauled in for the land, with the wind abeam, and about two o'clock made it on the coast of Maryland, or the eastern shore of Virginia, I don't know which. At four were up with Smith's Island, and just at sunset were in the mouth of the Chesapeake, running into Lynn Haven Bay, and anchored about 7 o'clock, the Concord passing higher up the bay. Next morning, Friday, the wind was light and ahead. Beat up a few miles and were compelled to anchor. About noon a man of war steamer, the Pom- sett, came down and towed us up. We passed Old Point about 3, and anchored in the harbor of Norfolk a little after sunset. S. and I went ashore, and took a look round that night. Next day I visited the Navy Yard, etc., etc., and at eight o'clock the Commodore put me on board the

430 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1840

Baltimore steamer. We came up the Bay on Sunday, and I got here on Monday to dinner.

Last night I saw the Ingersolls, all well and kind inquiries, etc. The two Miss Wilcoxes have been to Schooley's Mountains. d'Hautville was there. He is a nicish little man, of pleasing face and manner, rather quiet and reserved. His English is cross-grained, having as much involution as High Dutch. I did not think his physiognomy Calvinistic. Barry case is decided in his favor, but there are doubts about this.

The Willings have been compelled to break up, after all. They are all at lodgings, the furniture, which is here, having been sold. They say she behaves admirably, and there is a rumour, but I doubt its truth, that she thinks of giving lessons on the harp. I do not think the pride of the two families would permit this.

Yesterday I saw Barton's house. The drawing room is altogether the richest thing I have seen in America. The chairs are large, arms highly carved in leaves and gilded. The effect is that of a palace. The gilding extends down the sides, etc., etc.

Everyone talks politics. Nothing else is heard. Young Robert Hare, the jilt, is to be married next week to Miss de Pestre. The opinion is, there is not time enough for a quarrel. Mary Ingersoll said last night that he had gone up Chestnut Street, cussing himself, and if he missed a house by any chance, he was certain to come back, like the cholera.

I met Mrs. Tucker in the street yesterday, and she was as intellectual and lovely as ever. We have had a little explosion here to-day, in the house. One of the boarders, a respectable and plain man, by the way, has been obliged to quit us, owing the trifling sum of $1600. for board,

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 431

wine, etc. He appears not to have paid anything for more than a year — nor two years, indeed. I am sorry for him, as he was a quiet sort of person, though his indiscretion is remarkable.

Write me immediately on receiving this and let me know if any letters are at Cooperstown. I shall be home next week, but not in time for election, I fear.

I am glad you like Mercedes. Lea has read it and likes it too. You think very much the same about it. Bentley has changed the name to Christopher Columbus, or, Mercedes of Castile, a. miserable misnomer and a pure catch penny. Lea & B. had done the same thing, but I have put a stop to the proceeding, and told them I shall hold them responsible for the copyright if any mistake occurs. These booksellers have no souls.

Shubrick sends love, etc. He also sends Sue a box made on board the ship. It is not handsome, but he thought she would prize it. She must write when she gets it to thank him.

God bless you all — my loves and my love.

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Saturday, Nov. yth, 1840 Dearest —

Owing to an unlucky mistake with the manuscript, I cannot quit P. until Monday. I may be home on Tues day, but I fear not before Wednesday. Then, I think, I shall remain all Winter.

I have bought the chintz, 79^4 yards at 14^ cents, 56 yards glazed muslin, i doz. gloves — the stockings, binding and three dresses. The price of the last was $1 per yard. They are fine-striped, rather dark, rich and hand-

432 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1840

some. The whole comes to $69. I shall endeavor to bring on the tea, though my trunk is already filled. There will be very few books. Mercedes Warden will be among them. The English title is changed to Mercedes, etc., a romance of the times of Columbus.

I have seen but little of the Ingersolls, not having broken a crust there since my arrival, though asked. I have dined with the other two — viola tout. I have been excused by Mrs. Elwin, and there is an end of it.

Here we eat, drink, and sleep election. Pennsylvania is still doubtful, though the last news is favorable to Van Buren. The Whigs, this morning, are cooling off, and the majority will not be 500. Virginia, I think, will be for Van Buren. New York, I fear, we must lose, and then we lose the election.

I fear Martin must win, but I hope Seward will be beaten.

Young Elwyn is not even dead: of course has not been killed. I heard the mother speak to the daughter the other day. The latter seemed frightened. The Major goes to Dearborn in a few days, leaving the ladies behind. They winter with the mother.

Rob Hare is married. Harry Ingersoll witnessed the ceremony, and swears to it.

God bless you all, and rest assured of my tenderest love — you and my Mercedes.

J. F. C.

TO PAUL FENIMORE COOPER, GENEVA, NEW YORK

Hall, Cooperstown, Nov. 29th, 1840 My dear Boy,

Your mother and sisters have doubtless kept you ac quainted with my movements, which will explain the

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 433

reason of my long silence. Com. Shubrick wrote to me to join him, at the latest, on a Friday morning, as he ex pected to sail on that or the succeeding day. I was punc tual to an hour, but the ship was not ready, as the Com modore expected the Concord to join him before he left New York. The Concord did get in on Saturday morn ing, but she had fifty things to do before she could proceed on a West India cruise. On Saturday, therefore, I re luctantly gave up the project, and intended to go on to Philadelphia by land next morning, when the Com modore persuaded me to wait a few days, promising to sail by the following Saturday at the latest. Monday morning we went on board ship, where I stayed the re mainder of the time. Early on Saturday the Macedonian got under way, and we dropped down to the S. W. Spit, followed by the Concord. The wind coming light and ahead, we were obliged to anchor lying inside until day light on Sunday. When we got under way from the S. W. Spit, the wind was in south east and light, but we crossed the bar, passing out by Gedney's Channel, but as the night left us the President Steamship passed us standing in, and the Concord at that moment, coming up, passing beyond the command of Com. Renshaw, saluted the broad pennant of Com. Shubrick. This salute we an swered, of course, and then our cruise made a brilliant debut so far as wine, smoke and raconteur were concerned. After we got outside, the wind freshened, and by two o'clock it blew fresh, dead ahead. As this was the first serious head wind they had experienced in the ship, I was pronounced the Jonah, and there was some grave talk, but no very grave intentions, of throwing me overboard. I put the sin on the fleet surgeon, Dr. Morgan, who had just joined, and a strange steward belonging to Capt.

434 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1840

Smoot of the Levant, whom we were carrying round, and by these suggestions, or some other causes, escaped the whale's jaws. About 3 P. M. we passed the light ship, which is a very uneasy anchorage about 13 miles to the southward and eastward of the Hook. At sunset we tacked off Long Branch.

It blew fresh in the night, and we had to shorten sail. In the morning we were off Barnegat, and toward eve ning we again tacked off shore, abroad of Little Egg Harbor. From this time, Monday night, until Thursday morning, we were struggling against a head wind, blow ing fresh, and without a sight of the sun, when the wind came out a north west. We were now so far south, and so far off the land, as to make this purely a free wind. We hauled up, of course, and after running near a hun dred miles towards the s. west, made Smith's Island, which lies on the eastern shore, a short distance from Cape Charles. We edged away to avoid the mill ground, and passing the light on Cape Henry about seven o'clock, anchored at eight in Lynn Haven Bay. The wind had got to be light at sunset, and it fell nearly calm in the night. You will see we were just five days in getting from the Hook to Cape Henry. The Concord kept us com pany, sometimes so near as to speak us, and never more than a league distant. The two ships sailed very much alike, and I think both good vessels.

Friday morning the wind was light, and, after beating a few miles up the bay, we were compelled to anchor. Luckily, however, a steamer, the Pomsett, came down for us and towed us up. We were saluted by, and returned the salute of, the Poinsett — always 13 guns from the saluter, and seven from the saluted. As we drew near Coney Island, and got a sight of the Delaware's masts,

1840] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 435

Salvo the third took place. At sunset we passed the Dela ware, and anchored off the town. Thus ended my service, after having been twelve days on board the ship. I re mained in her until Saturday night, when I left her for a steamboat, and came up the Bay on Sunday. On Mon day I reached Philadelphia. The Macedonian had a set of very fine young men on board her. The Commodore was much beloved, and he left his ship with regret. Com. Wilkinson took charge of the squadron a few days after I left Norfolk. William goes, or rather has gone, with him, the ship having sailed.

Your aunts will soon leave us for Geneva, but with an expectation of returning in the course of the Winter. The house is entirely finished, and all the rooms are furnished, so that they can probably be more comfortable here than with you. We have seven vacant rooms, after giving them an excellent apartment, while I fancy your uncle has no great excess of space. You see, poetic justice re quires them to stay where they are.

Mr. Webb has got his trial postponed on a plea of a want of time to be in readiness. He cannot escape, how ever, notwithstanding all his manoeuvres, but will even tually be punished. I have beaten Messrs. Stone and Benjamin on the demurrers argued at Utica last Summer, and they have let the time the Court gave them to amend pass without doing anything, from which we infer they give the matter up as a bad job. If we are right in our notions of the practice, we now call a jury and assess the damages, without a trial in open court. You will see by this that the other side dare not even attempt a defense. They are such rogues, however, and have recourse to so many tricks and expedients, that it is difficult to deter mine what their real intentions are. That I shall beat

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them, one and all, is certain, 'if law and evidence can avail.

The Duff Greens are Duff Greys, on all days but Sundays. Some of the figures in bayonet belts and car- touch boxes, and have a fearfully bloody look. They occasionally make a noise, very much in the feu de joie style. I should think the eclat of the school, by all I hear, a more settled thing than its gentility. It appears to be matter of exultation that one of its members has got into a college. I am told, artillery is the next step.

I am looking out for a match for Pumpkin, whose name of right should be Molasses, when she shall set up our lumber sleigh and two. The wood choppers are at work at the Chalet, and shortly its trees will be blazing in the chimneys of the Hall.

The Henderson House feud is accommodated, the gentleman having returned quietly to his allegiance cry ing peccavi. This is all right, and we shall get our neigh bors back.

We have no news here. The Colonel has gone on his Winter's campaign, the Chief Justice is just back from his especial term, and I believe Dick has got in his rents. It snows, and your aunts meditate a flight. I shall be at home to receive you, and you will find a large trunk in waiting, a proof that we do not intend you shall remain always.

Is not the Glentworth affair a most melancholy bit of villainy*? and yet a Grand Jury prevents the Judge who would punish it, and lets the rogue go free. Depend on it, my son, we live in bad times, and times that threaten a thousand serious consequences, through the growing corruption of the nation. If public virtue be truly neces sary to a republic, we cannot be one, but, unknown to

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 437

ourselves, must be something else. The fact is, govern ments often profess to be one thing and practice another, and we are not what we profess to be.

You will not be sorry to hear that there are twenty young turkeys at this moment feeding under my window, most of which will be in waiting for your return. The bass have almost entirely failed us this autumn, while the lake fish never were more plenty. Dan Boden has taken eight or ten of the latter in a day, and with the hook. On the whole we are not starving, and shall be delighted to see you.

Most affectionately your father

J. Fenimore Cooper.

TO MR. G. ROBERTS

Otsego Hall, Cooperstown, Jan. 2nd, 1841 Dear Sir,

My engagements render a compliance with your re^ quest out of the question. The remuneration would be no inducement, for I never asked or took a dollar in my life for any personal service, except as an officer in the Navy, and for full grown books. I do not say this on account of any feeling, for I think writers ought to be paid, and I would often have received compensation of this sort on general principles, though I could not be remunerated for lost time in writing for any periodical. I only wish to say that I am not deterred by any pecuniary consideration, and, at the same time, that I think writers ought to be remunerated. But I am under engagements that I find it difficult to execute in time.

Some fifteen or twenty years since my publisher became embarrassed and I wrote two short tales to aid him. He printed them, under the title of Tales for Fifteen, by

438 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

Jane Morgan. One of these stories, rather a feeble one I fear, was called Heart, the other Imagination. This tale was written one rainy day, half asleep and half awake, but I retain rather a favorable impression of it. If you can find a copy of the book, you might think Imagination worth reprinting, and I suppose there can now be no objection to it. It would have the freshness of novelty, and would be American enough, Heaven knows. It would fill three or four of your columns.

The ordinary English hack writers utter a vast deal of nonsense. In the paper you sent me is a very silly article about Murray, whose character is not at all understood. One of the writer's facts is downright nonsense. He says that Mr. Murray never publishes novels. I suppose he has published hundreds. He published Pioneers for me, and I had a good deal of difficulty in getting The Pilot out of his hands, where it had been placed by a friend. I found him anything but liberal, and he knew that this was my opinion of him, for he sounded Mr. Miller to know whether a visit from him would be agreeable to me. Mr. Murray is a great man only among very little men.

Do you think size as important in a journal as quality? We have so much mediocrity in this country that, excuse me for asking it, I think distinction now might better be sought in excellence. There is a serious physical objection to mammoth sheets ; they are difficult to read. I confess I would rather write for a small sheet than for a large one, if I were in the way of writing for either.

Is Mr. Longfellow in this country, and do you ever see him? He did me the favor a few years since to send me some Danish translations. I was under the impression that he was Charge d'affaires in Copenhagen, and wrote him in answer to that country. I could wish him to know

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 439

this, and, if I recollect right, you did me the favor to forward the books from Boston. If I am not in error, will you explain this affair to Mr. Longfellow?

Your Obe. Ser.

J. Fenimore Cooper.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Globe, New York, Monday, March 29th, 1841 Dearest,

I got here, by the river, on Saturday. Yesterday I went to the Navy Yard, and after dinner I visited Mrs. M ait- land. Found her well established, with a puppet of a daughter, who kissed and hugged me in a very precocious manner. She is half Maitland — half Ellison. Her mother was very amiable — no Mrs. De Lancey, yet. I then saw Mrs. Yates, who expects the Neils in June. She is over head and ears in business, and thinks she cannot reach Cooperstown this summer. Next to Mrs. Banyer's, where I drank tea, and passed two or three hours. Then to Mr. Gay's, for an hour, and next to bed.

Mr. Balmanno is Ogden's clerk. He sent me the ac count of the Hall, which was written by his wife. He owns the house at Geneva, and wishes to sell it for $9000. Will it not suit your sisters? Perhaps it might be got for less money. Of course you will tell them this, and if they like the place, I might obtain the last price.

You will see a letter from me in the Post. I think it floors Mr. Mackenzie as far as it goes. Barber is annihi lated, and my letter has brushed off that mosquitoe. Everybody says that — everybody but the editors who raised a clamor the other way.

Benjamin is down — away down — character under stood, and sinks fast to Webb's level.

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I shall go to Philadelphia to-morrow, and be back here this week. Home, I think, by Saturday or Sunday. The Court House may detain me, but I trust not.

I shall make the purchases here, on my return. Every body says I am too fat, and I know I am very well. With love and blessings to all at home,

Yours as ever

J. Fenimore Cooper.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Friday, April 2nd, 1841 Dearest,

I have seen Mrs. Elwyn and Tilly, but not Mrs. Erving, who has not yet left her room. She has been very seriously ill, but sees her friends at night. I shall call on her this evening or to-morrow. Last evening I passed with the Henrys, and the night before with Com. Read. The last looks old — very old, but says he is not yet religious, though his wife is.

I met the Miss Wilcocks in the street, but have not yet been to Ingersoll's. Met him this morning, and prom ised to go round this evening, but have entered no houses except those named.

I hear that Tom Stevens has left his family utterly destitute. He speculated largely, and ruined himself. Indeed, I have heard his death attributed to a mishap connected with his losses. Renshaw says a civil process was served on him the night he died, and that he did not get over it. What makes the matter worse is the fact that the last Congress stopped the pensions of officers' widows, those who fell in battle excepted.

John Jay and his wife, with Miss Dubois, came on

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 441

with me, and are now here. Dr. Hare and son sail for England to-day. Philadelphia is struck by a paralysis, but things are by no means as bad as I expected to find them. Ogden thinks we have reached the bottom.

I hear nothing of the Court House, and fear it may have been mismanaged since I left. Certainly it was in a fair way before.

Gen. Harrison is very ill, and serious apprehensions are entertained for him. I hear nothing of Mr. Sargent or his mission, but shall learn more when next I see Inger- soll.

Mr. Dallas has given me some papers of Elliott's, and complains that the Commodore has not done the genteel thing in relation to the honorarium. Poor fellow, they have put him a sec, I suppose, and he cannot help himself. With kindest love to all, I remain, yours,

tenderly, and in perfect health,

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Sunday, 13th [June, 1841] Dearest Sue,

As L. & B. do not desire to publish [ The Deerslayer} until August, I shall leave Philadelphia the last of this week and go to New York, in order to complete my moneyed arrangements. The first volume is now done, and in four or five days more the second will be so far advanced as to be easily finished through the Post Office, and the other matters must be attended to.

It has been horribly hot here, but the weather is now much cooler. I am perfectly well, and very prudent. I have seen Mrs. Erving, who is better, and about to join her husband near New York. Tilly and the mother were

442 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

out — gone to lecture, though different ways. I dined with Ingersoll yesterday; part of the ladies in the country. They are all well, and made many kind enquiries. Mary Ingersoll, my favorite, was not there. I have seen no one else but the Henrys.

I have bought the d'Hauteville case, and have been reading the testimony. The fact is two tetes montees have run against each other. She has been very wrong, and he has been wrong. You will all read it, and I think the girls will laugh over it. There is a good deal of it, and that is lucky, inasmuch as I shall bring scarcely any other book.

The anti-Biddle feeling is very strong, and quite as ferocious as the pro-Biddle feeling was formerly. Benton is here — wife on the river. He joins her in a few days, however. Willing and Niles are competitors for the charge d'affaireship at Turin. I have seen none of them. Thorn. Francis died after 48 hours of illness.

I have hopes of the President. The Portuguese ac count comes straight, and is consistent and probable.

Write me at the Globe, New York, in answer to this. I hear nothing of engagements or marriages. John Sar gent it is thought will go to England, and Mr. Cass will be Vicar of Bray. The return of the Brandy wine, I fear, compromises Bolton sadly. Entre nous, they say he be trays some of his mother's malady. He quits the ship and Capt. Girsinger takes her.

This house is very thin, and we are only seven at table. As for myself, I am as ever

Most tenderly and truly yours, with love for the babes,

J- F. C.

If you do not write, in what respect are you a good wife? I put it to your conscience, as M. d'Hautville says.

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 443

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Tuesday, [June] 22nd, 1841 My dearest wife,

Here I am still, contrary to my expectations. I am detained by a new bargain and a desire to get rid of Deerslayer entirely. I am now bargaining for an abridg ment of Naval History.

Sunday I met our friend the Rev. Bar tow of Georgia. He was in deep mourning and I find he has lost his wife, the greatest loss that can befall a man, after a few years of marriage. He came here for his health, and is now much better. He wishes to get a chaplaincy and to go out in the Brandywine, the Rev. Charles vacating. He called the last a butterfly. I gave him good counsel, which, like all good counsel, will I presume be lost. He is to see me again.

About 80 pages of Deerslayer remain to be printed. Of these some 30 will be disposed of to-day. I hardly think it as good as Pathfinder^ but sufficiently different. It has a strong moral, and some capital scenes. Lea has read half, and likes it exceedingly. Thinks it equal quite to Path finder.

I have seen the Ingersolls, old and young. The Henrys once, Gurney Smith, Math. Alsop and a few others. The feeling against Biddle is ferocious. I have seen the Ervings three times. The old lady is much subdued in manner, and Tilly appears happier. The boys are but little changed — John is John, and Larry Larry. Mrs. Mac en conge.

Barton is still here, but on the wing. Our house is not in favor, though quite as good as ever, but the sons injure it. I think they begin to know it. The old man is reviving.

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Extraordinary scenes are enacting at Washington. Whiggery tumbling to pieces, and old Quincy Adams a general tormentor. I presume this congress will finish him. Tom Cooper's daughter is the lady of the White House, and Tom thinks Mr. Tyler will veto the Fiscal Agent.

I hope Mann cuts the grass even, this is important. He should keep a sharp scythe.

In the Stewart case (Webb- Stewart) a verdict has been had against Stewart on the ground that the old maid was non compos. He was a good rogue, that G ad venturer. The property is said to be worth $500,000, but that must mean the whole estate.

Surprisingly few people travel, though things are coming slowly round.

Give my best love to the children, and reserve a little better for yourself. I do not think I am a bad father, and yet I love my wife a little better than any child I have, good as all mine are. Can this be because the wife is so good, or because I am a fool ?

Yours tenderly

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Sunday, August 15, 1841

I got through in New York, in sufficient season to reach this place by midnight Friday. Yesterday I made my bargain, and to-morrow we begin work. I hope to get through by the 25th next month. It is well I have been so prompt, as I hear of a scheme of Mackenzie's to cut me out. We shall see in the end which will prevail. Deer-

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 445

slayer is just out — no opinions yet of its standing. Of course nothing is yet known of its sale.

I hear a great promotion is to be made in the Navy. It will include Irvine, Shubrick, Ned Byrne, etc., and Bridge will be a captain.

I met the French admiral here, and he tells me Mrs. Shubrick is quite well. Nothing unpleasant occurred as to Schotes.

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Head's, Wednesday, [September] 8th, 1841 Dearest,

I am well, and am getting on well, but it requires time. The book is about half done, and this in eight working days; in ten more it will be out of my hands, though I must still wait a few days to get it bound, etc.

The French Admiral has just left us. He is an amiable man, and one of good sense too, but one of strong preju dices concerning this country. Among other things he has got strange ideas of our religious exaggerations, and more particularly of the Methodists. Last Sunday morning he asked me if I had heard the Methodists the previous night, in one of their religious meetings. "Ou done, et quand, Admiral?" "Vers minuit, et dans les rues. Ils ont courus les rues, en priant et criant a haute voix, avec un petit docker. Bah! quel drole de religion /" On inquiry, I found there had been an alarm of fire, and one of the hose companies had passed his windows ! Yesterday, he found the "Methodists" again. It was at night, "au coin de la sixieme et Chestnut" "Ils ont cries, bravo, bravo!" It was a meeting of Irish repealers. Barton has just given

446 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

me a story of Davicaz' that surpasses this even. A Louisianan, a Creole, was walking among her slaves, and discussing with her friends the best mode of ruling her blacks. "Il ne faut qu'un systeme. Mon systeme, a moi, ce n'est que les recompenses et les punitions. Ecoufez! Je m? adresse a mes negres, et vous aller voir r efet. ~M.es amis, vous savez que les Cannes sont mures. Demain, il faut bien travailler. Vous me connaissez — vous savez mon systeme. Si vous ne travaillez pas, vous serez fouettes: mais, si vous travaillez, vous ne serez pas fouettes —

There is a strange story about Mrs. Tucker. Some time after the death of her husband, she received a letter from a captain in the Austrian engineers, whom she had known in Europe, where he still was, offering her his hand. She accepted him, and the man is now here, come to fulfil his engagement. But she is dying of an inward cancer. The Doctors declare the case hopeless, and she gives herself up, as she thinks so much happiness could not be in reserve for her. When and where the courtship took place, the legend does not say. The above facts are, however, from her relating.

I see by the late papers that our little acquaintance Camille Borghese, now Prince Aldobrandini Borghese is about to marry Mademoiselle d' Ahremberg, the daughter of the Due d' Ahremberg, a quasi Frenchman of high rank.

We have a thousand rumours here, mostly false, and among them one that says that affairs look serious again with England. I believe we shall have war before all things are settled, but, so wrong headed are our people, that I fear they will fight on a question in which they are

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 447

wrong, when we have so many causes of quarrel in which we are right.

Mr. Tyler enjoys the choicest benediction of the Whigs. It is thought he will veto the new bank law, in which case there is to be a Whig manifesto showing him up.

I saw Mrs. Erving and Tilly night before last. I thought Tilly in good spirits. They say the old lady is religious, and that she treats her daughter more kindly. The old lady is in hourly expectation of her hopeful son from New Orleans. He is the delight of her eyes. The Ervings are at Sing Sing. The Major is dreading promo tion, as it will take him from his present regiment. The boys are all well. Mrs. Charles Ingersoll tells me she thinks Mrs. Erving consumptive, and in a bad way, but I hope she is mistaken.

This town is sadly cut in the way of fortunes ; more so than I had believed. One of the Coxes, who had half a million a few years since, has not one tenth of his means left. Many others, out of business, have suffered in equal proportions.

The Bank of the United States, in one sense, exists no longer. It has assigned its assets, and of course has noth ing to do. This was done to escape executions. It was the wisest thing it could do, though not absolutely honest. This affair of the Bank is worse than that of the Great Fire. Is not all this done to rebuke a country that thinks, eats, talks, drinks, and dreams dollars'?

I hope the wood comes in fast, this fine weather. In your answer let me know what is doing.

The Willing is absent and in grief. She has lost a fine boy — Arthur — by dysentery. They are at Brighton.

448 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

Toni's diplomatic hopes are extinct. The wags say that if his appointment had been a "Soup" he might have suited "Turin." But a Philadelphian must pun. Char lotte shows the blood of the vicinity.

Mr. Miller is here, and I think Caroline is the one, by his manner of speaking, though he does not often intro duce their names.

I have not broken bread out of the house, though Ingersoll has asked me. I shall go and see Commodore Biddle in a day or two. Nick seems doomed. I think, however, the law suits will die a natural death. It is mean in men who well knew, at the time when the money went, to make a noise about it now.

Had you not better send the Platonists apples? The melons here are now delicious, and I am getting some seed. I eat both, with benefit.

Give my love and blessing to the children, and accept an embrace for yourself.

Yours most tenderly

J. F. C.

FROM AN UNKNOWN ENGLISHMAN

England, September, 1841 Sir

I see with the greatest pleasure that you have published another of your most interesting novels, The Deerslayer, and that you have again brought before us an old and favorite character, the Leather- Stocking, in whose ad ventures I am exceedingly interested, and indeed I take a great interest in every thing relating to the Red Indians. I wrote a letter to you about 4 months ago which I hope you have received, enclosed to Mr. Richard Bently, the

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 449

Publisher of your Novels. I am happy to tell you that you have succeeded in making the Leather- Stocking as great a Hero as Homer has Achilles, or Virgil, ^Eneas. I have not yet read The Deerslayer, but I have read a part of it in Bently's Miscellany, entitled The Death of the Red Man, with which I am greatly delighted, so I hope and trust you will continue to write novels about the Indians and Leather Stocking, such as about various exploits of the Leather Stocking alluded to by him in The Last of the Mohicans and The Prairie, etc., or you might also write about the deeds of Tecumseh, the Shawanese, etc., for every one is greatly interested with your Novels, but they do not get such extensive circula tion at first as they do when they are published in the Standard Novels. As I said before I am greatly inter ested in the North American Indians, but I hear from Mr. Catlin (the Man who exhibits all Indian ornaments, arms, etc., in London) much to my regret, that it is Prob able, they will soon be extinct, for that about 170,000 Buffaloes are slaughtered annually in America, for the sake of their skins, and that in about 10 years they will be entirely destroyed, and that when that happens 250,000 Indians, now living on a plain of about 3000 miles in extent, must either die of Starvation or attack the White Settlers, and by them be destroyed, and at which circumstance I should be very sorry, for I intend shortly to go to America, and pass some months among the Indians. I am sorry that I must continue to be Anonymous, tho I wish it were the contrary. Novels about the Contests of the Bloody Ground, or about Black Hawk, or General Wayne's Indian Wars, would be exceedingly interesting, and would get immense circula tion, but any thing about the Leather Stocking would be

450 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

better than any others, but I hope you will write no more like The Heidenmauer, or The Manikins.

I remain, Sir,

yours very truly

P. S. I would like

"Nunc lustrare viis — et vastos fingere Tauros."

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Philadelphia, Sept. lyth, 1841 My dearest Sue,

Your letter reached me last night. The verdict is about half what it ought to have been, but is the more likely to be paid. I think I could have doubled it — but Dick says there were impracticable men on the jury. It will cost Benjamin, as it is, some 6 or 800 dollars. You will be glad to hear I am nearly through. I have sold the abridged Naval History, and have made a fair bargain. I hope to be in New York on Monday, and home before Sunday — perhaps on Wednesday.

Joe Miller is here with his wife. They both look well. I saw Mrs. Erving, Tilly, and the New Orleans son last night. I fear Mrs. Erving is in a decline. The Major must now be promoted into the 3d, which is stationed in Florida, and he may carry his wife there.

I have seen Mad. Elsler, dined in her company at Com. Biddle's, passed a night at Charles Ingersoll's, and dined with Joe. So much for my dissipations.

I am the only person left at Head's. He keeps me out of charity, but the furniture is actually selling to-day. We are scattered to the four winds, and I think my visits

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 451

to Philadelphia are ended. My next book will be printed through the post office.

The letter from Bentley was highly satisfactory — Deerslayer is doing well, and I hope will still do better. The press says nothing about it. Mr. Miller tells me Susan De Lancey -writes him she cannot go to Coopers- town. As for the Laights, you will know better in a day or two. Fifty people have told me that they were at Sharon.

J. F. C.

FROM JOSEPH RANSOM

Gilbertsville, Oct. 15th, 1841 My dear Sir,

On my journey home, the other day, from New York I came to the knowledge, in a conversation about you and your excellent works, that you had beaten your miserable traducer Park Benjamin; and as your daughter, I heard, was returning to Cooperstown, I could not but avail my self of the opportunity of thus telling you how greatly I rejoiced at it; as well as at the same time of expressing my opinion, that the state of the public mind is, very obviously I think turning round in your favor. The fact is, you are accomplishing a most glorious achievement for your country; and this is beginning to be recognized by it, — except in those contemptible instances, where the mind, having become utterly vitiated, by an interesting connexion with a villainous system, is no longer capable of entertaining any correct moral perceptions; nor can it be otherwise, I think, than that all sensible men, and especially those in publick capacities, will look to you with gratitude and reverence, as not only the champion of their liberties, but as the successful defender of every

452 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

thing sacred and dear to them. It may not, indeed, be yet, alas ! that the country will be able to estimate, fully, the true nature of the conquest wh. you are making for it; — for such is the confused and disorganized state of things ; and such, as a necessary consequence, the perverted medium through wh. the judgement has to operate; that both your fearful position, and the work you are accom plishing, will to a most serious extent, be inevitably over looked. Yet to me, at least, who am not at all mixed up with the existing state of things, it appears that no mortal could occupy a more perilous station, than that into wh., with so much courage and ability, you have thrown your self; — for what is it, but to have entered the lists alone, against the power by wh. the country has been subju gated ; and thus, in defiance of all opposition whatever, to have succeeded, as you have done, in raising it from so degrading a predicament"? My dear Sir, I cannot but regard this, as unquestionably the most glorious thing that you have done. By your works, indeed, you have been, and still are, at once the ornament and the light of your country; but in this matter you are truly a Re former, and such a man I consider is, of all others, the greatest and most important to the world; inasmuch as his object is to bring men back again to the truth of things, and consequently his work must be, after a sort at least, divine. I pray that God may still grant you suc cess, and make you to triumph over all your enemies ; and this, indeed, I am compelled to do the more earnestly, as I feel that, in a most important sense, you are actually fighting my own, as well as every body else's battle.

I was very glad to hear from your daughter that you were all well. We are, thank God, quite so, and very comfortablv settled in our new Parish. Mrs. Ransom

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 453

unites with me in best respects to yourself, Mrs. Cooper, and the family ; and thanking you for all your great kind ness to us, I remain

ever, my dear Sir,

your most obedient servant

Joseph Ransom

To J. Fenimore Cooper, Esqr., Cooperstown

TO CAPTAIN CONNER, WASHINGTON

Otsego Hall, Cooperstown, Nov. 7, 1841 Dear Conner,

You will find your berth as Commissioner no sinecure, if I am to trouble you with my commissions. However, honour has its penalty as well as dishonour, and, so, here goes. I have a nephew who is desirous of getting a berth with some captain, or commodore, as his clerk. He com menced life as a sailor, and has already been seven years at sea, three of them with Shubrick and Wilkinson, as their clerk. He left the latter because the surgeon told him to quit the West Indies. He writes a good hand, and, without being a genius, he is a steady, diligent, honest good fellow. Morally there is no cause to complain of him, for he has not been sent to sea to tame, but because his mother made a bad second match, and ruined him and his brothers.

Now all I want to trouble you with is to find out what ships are likely soon to be put into commission, and who is to have them. Of course I ask no secrets, but only early information of what anybody may have for asking. The Home Squadron must be fitted, and I hear Nichol son is to have it. Where is he, and is this known to be true*? Any captain, however, would do as well as a com-

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modore. I should like to get the young man with Nichol son, nevertheless, as he must have a big ship, and is good natured. If you can help me in this way, have the good ness to drop me a line.

The secretary refused my offer, two months after I had sold the book on much better terms, to a publisher. I do not know whether the service cares at all about this work or not, but if it is to be bought, 100 copies will now cost it nearly double what I offered it for; since the booksellers take the lion's share of the profits.

You have got one precious fellow in your cabinet — Mr. John C. Spencer. If he does not "breed a riot" I shall be mistaken. At Albany the Whigs publicly exult in his removal. Take a specimen of his character. I offered to sell the new edition of Naval History to a bookseller in New York, who agreed to take it, if a cer tain person would do so and so. After a few days I found out that the certain person was Mr. Spencer, and that the "so and so" was his consent, as Superintendent of our common schools, to put the work in the district school library — a series of books published by the Harpers, under his Imperial Patronage. I immediately declined selling the work on conditions so humiliating to a free man, and disposed of it, subsequently, in Philadelphia. Sometime afterwards curiosity induced me to inquire of the New York bookseller if Mr. Spencer had ever answered his application. I was shown his answer, and read it with my own eyes. He declined putting the Naval History into the District School Library on the ground that the book was controversial on the subject of the Battle of Lake Erie, and he had uniformly declined ad mitting any controversial works. He then witnessed his rejection of two or three biographies, on the same princi-

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 455

pie. Now, in the first place, it is the want of controversy in the History that has made the clamor about it — my

abstaining from accusing Elliott, etc. But the d d

scoundrel had actually put in Mackenzie's life of Perry, which is all controversy, which avows itself to be contro versy in its preface, and controversy on the Battle of Lake Erie, too, several months before he wrote that letter! I pledge you my honour to these facts. I have lately been told that the biographies he mentioned as having been rejected on account of their controversy, he had officially admitted, but, on receiving a notice from Gen. Dix, his predecessor in office, informing him that they contained deliberate attacks on the democratic party, and that if published in the series, the abuse would be exposed, he withdrew them. The last I give you on respectable information — the first I know to be true. I wonder if there is such a thing as an honest politician?

Very truly yours

J. Fenimore Cooper.

If Nicholson is to have the Home Squadron, have the kindness to let me know where he is to be found. By the way, what a scrape poor Bolton has got into !

FROM THOMAS BALDWIN

Phila., Nov. 10 [1841] Sir

I have long regretted that you did not extend your Gleanings in ILurope to Germany, and having just fin ished a second perusal of your France and Italy the desire has increased. I think a book of Travels on Germany, Prussia and Austria a desideratum, yet every traveller when he approaches their confines lays down his pen. I

456 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

do not presume that the wishes of one man (however high in station) to be sufficient motive for an author to publish a work (my name is a very humble one) but a straw may turn the balance when it is in equilibria . And I thought perchance your mind might be in the same state in regard to a work on those countries, as it was in respect to the Deer Slayer when you received the anonymous letter from Europe.

I hope you may find it both agreeable to yourself (and profitable) to lay the world again under obligations to yourself for the work I desire.

Be that as it may I acknowledge myself already indebted to you for many happy hours in the perusal of your various works. No work of fiction, not even any of Scott's, gave me such thrilling pleasure as your last of the Mohicans and the Series of Gleanings are the choicest morceaux in the travelling way I ever met with. That you may long live to enjoy the fruits of your labors, is the sincere wish of one of your most humble readers (in point of wealth and station).

I think authors may often not be aware how great the amount of pleasure they give is. There is a very large and quiet under stratum of readers, who are never heard of by the public, and whose criticisms never reach the press, who judge works by their real merits, and enjoy them much more than those who hope to rise to eminence by criticising what they could never equal or amend.

I give my name (it is that of an humble teacher) be cause I would not shrink from any liability that this probably improper liberty may bring on me.

your very obliged reader

Thos. Baldwin J. Fenimore Cooper, Cooperstown

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 457

FROM J. WATSON WEBB

Fonda, friday p. m., 19, Nov. 1841 To

Schuyler Crippen Esq. Dist. Atty. of Otsego Co.

Sir, Having just closed the trial commenced on Wednesday A. M. on the original indictment found against me by the grand jury of Otsego County for a libel on J. Fenimore Cooper in a review of Home as found ) and the jury not having yet returned a verdict either in my behalf or against me, I am prepared to make an overture for the settlement of the second indictment. The Indictment referred to now pending is based upon an article in the C. and E. announcing that the indict ment just tried had been found in Otsego County and is as follows: —

(Here insert the article alluded to) I am now satisfied that I was in error in regard to the manner in which that indictment was procured. The whole article was hastily written, and in speaking of Mr. Cooper as being "the most wholesale libeller of any man living" I had in my mind and intended to be understood as only characterising some of his published works in rela tion to his Countrymen, and under the peculiar circum stances in which the parties still remain in relation to the first indictment and which are to remain unaffected by this communication, I agree that the publication of this letter in the C. and E. shall be considered as cancelling the entire article.

Very respectfully

Your ob1 Sevn* J. Watson Webb.

458 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

James Watson Webb was born in Clavarack, New York, February 8, 1802, and died in June, 1884. He was educated in Cooperstown, entered the army in 1819, and remained in the service until 1827, when he resigned and became editor of the New York Courier •, afterwards known as the Courier and Enquirer. To expedite the business of reporting, Mr. Webb established a daily horse express between New York and Washington, with relays of horses every six miles of the way. This cost him $7,500.00 a month, but enabled him to obtain news twenty-four hours before his rivals. He was minister to Brazil and author of several books.

TO PAUL FENIMORE COOPER, GENEVA, NEW YORK

Hall, Cooperstown, Nov. 2ist, 1841 My dear Boy,

As you and your dear sisters will feel anxious to hear the accounts of the Fonda campaign, I now send the "bulletin."

We found Mr. Webb at Fonda, but no Mr. Weed. All three of the causes were called, within an hour after the opening of the Court. An attorney appeared for Mr. Weed to say that his counsel would certainly arrive in the next car, that Mr. Weed's daughter was very ill, but that he had promised to come up in the next train, etc. Under the circumstances, I consented to wait till next day. Next day no Weed, and no Jordan. Satisfied that all this delay was to allow the friends of Weed and Webb to work out of doors, and being distinctly told that sev eral prominent Whigs were active, and had come to Fonda with no other cause than to help their editors, we insisted on going on. We took an inquest against Weed, which implies that he made no defense. You will judge of the jury, when I tell you that three Whigs on this

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 459

jury insisted on finding a verdict for Mr. Weed! Of course such a verdict would be set aside. Five were for $1200, and one was for $1500. At length the jury sent in word to the Judge it could not agree. We sent word back they must, and shortly after they came in with a verdict of $400. This was about half what it ought to have been, but was pretty well for so miserable a jury.

On Wednesday, we got at Mr. Webb. Our jury was bad as well could be. Nine Whigs, and some of them extremely ignorant and prejudiced. It was told us there was but one man on it at all capable of trying such a cause. This was a Mr. Lansing, and a relative of Mrs. Sutherland. On the trial we had the best of it, altogether. They refused to let me speak, and it all fell on Dick. Your cousin spoke for eight hours, or two days, and an nihilated the other side. He made infinitely the best argu ment. The other side did nothing. The moral impression was altogether in our favor, and Dick swept away a mass of rubbish, in so clear a manner that we shall have no more of it. But the Whigs were too much drilled, and the jury could not agree. After being out nine hours, the Court discharged them. It is understood that seven of the Whigs were for acquittal, and the other five for guilty; that four of these five, after being from eight in the morn ing to ten at night without food, yielded to the seven, on the ground that if there were doubts, the defendant ought to be acquitted — a false plea, you will understand, as these doubts would have been their own — but that Mr. Lansing told the Court they never could agree. It is said, he never would consent that a man should be acquitted in so clear a case. Of course, this case will be tried over again in the Spring.

Before the jury was discharged in the cause just men-

460 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

tioned, Mr. Webb sent us a proposition to retract the charges of the second libel, for which he was indicted. After several hours of consultation, he made his retrac tion, which is to be published in his paper, and that affair was settled.

Then we got our verdict of $400 against Weed; one retraction from Mr. Webb, and in one case the jury did not agree. I make no doubt the alleged ground of the dis agreement was the principle of a privileged communica tion, which Judge Sutherland will explain to you, and that the real ground was outdoor corruption.

I have been really delighted with Dick's success. His manner was as good as his matter, and there was but one opinion about the last. He dissected Mr. Webb's article, clause by clause, exposed its contradictions and false hoods, in the most unanswerable manner. Mr. Jordan made a poor speech, Mr. Spencer a tolerably good one.

I hear the best accounts of you, my son, and your mother and myself feel a gratification in it, that you will never understand until you become a parent yourself. We are also pleased with Doctor Hawk's opinion of Roy.

Everyone sends love, and I think you ought to go often as possible to see your sisters. Send or bring me a catalogue. Be attentive to Platt and Charles and occa sionally give them a little treat in the way of good things, or an excursion.

Yours very affectionately

J. Fenimore Cooper

FROM S. F. B. MORSE

New York, Nov. 30, 1841 My Dear Sir,

It is not because I have not thought of you and your

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 461

excellent family that I have not long since written you, to know your personal welfare. I hear of you often, it is true, through the papers. They praise you as usual, for it is praise to have the abuse of such as abuse you. In all your libel suits against these degraded wretches, I sym pathize entirely with you, and there are thousands who now thank you in their hearts for the moral courage you display in bringing these licentious scamps to a knowledge of their duty. Be assured the good sense, the intelligence, the right feeling of the community at large are with you. The licentiousness of the press needed the rebuke which you have given it, and it feels it too, despite its awkward attempts to brave it out. I will say nothing of your Home as found; I will use the frankness to say that I wish you had not written it. But when am I ever to see you? Do call on me if you come to the city. I wished much the last summer to make you a call, but could not without a sacri fice that I could not sustain. When in Paris last I several times passed 59 rue St. Dominique; the gate stood invit ingly open and I looked in, but did not see my old friends, although every thing else was present. I felt as one might suppose another to feel on rising from his grave, after a lapse of a century. Remember me kindly to Mrs. Cooper and all your family.

Truly as ever Yr Friend and Servt

Sam* F. B. Morse. James Fenimore Cooper, Esqr, Cooperstown

FROM THOMAS BALDWIN

Phila., Dec. 4 [1841] Honored Sir

Will you pardon me for again intruding on your privacy, when I promise you this shall be the last time;

462 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

but I cannot forbear to express the value I set on the honor you have done me in replying to my note, which was very unexpected but very grateful to me. Do not I beg you Sir accuse me of obsequiousness. I value myself with myself solely upon what God has given me. Though I trust few men would pay less homage to the "dollar gentry" than myself — yet I never felt any degradation in venerating genius, the stamp of divinity itself. The letter you have sent me shall be handed down to my representative and when the name of Cooper shall have become the property of history, as the first distinguished original American writer, I doubt not it will be still more highly valued than at present. A young man of my ac quaintance (a student at law) came home the other day with a treasure which his mother has carefully locked up for him. It was the signature of J. Fenimore Cooper given to him by his preceptor. Yes Sir! there is no one (however much the editors may abuse you, not even the editors themselves) but, when he speaks of American literature proudly points to the name of Cooper. I am astonished at the indifference manifested to your Glean ings in TLurope since my friends read and admire them. I think it must partly be owing to the commercial de rangements that have prevailed since you published them, and partly (no doubt) to the offence you have given to the class who plume themselves on their dollars. But you have a very large class of readers that are not of much profit to you, who depend on libraries, and of whom you hear not through your publishers. I am glad to find any man who dares to stem the current of public opinion ; and therefore was much pleased to find old John Q. taking a different view of the English attack on China than the public's (though mine in this case is that of the public)

1841] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 463

because I am glad to see a public man with some inde pendence of opinion. The fact is demagogues have poi soned the public taste by their fulsome and designing flattery. I cannot recollect any of your strictures on Americans that I thought unjust, but permit me to say I regretted that you did not think it proper to soften the manner a little. Most that I hear give a sentiment on the matter, regret your controversy with the press, as it has the power of misrepresentation. I regret it from a sel fish motive, from fear that you will cease to write alto gether or leave the country. I deeply lament on my own account that we are not to have the works referred to, in your letter. But I sincerely thank you, for the amount you have already added to my happiness by your writings. I have long since ceased to look to newspapers for opinions, and only read them for the passing history of the day. I was so much struck with the justness of your animadversions upon the dependence of opinion in this country upon England, that I made it the subject of a newspaper essay some few months since; in which I re ferred to your opinions. I have to thank you particularly for giving me a clearer idea of the locale of Rome than I ever before had, and especially for giving me juster views of Italian character. I had been in the habit of looking upon "Italians" with contempt. Not the first time you will say that ignorance has been the source of that feel ing. In short I do not regret the matter of any thing you have written, though it had been better perhaps for your self had the manner been a little softened. The world has never thanked those who reform or reprove it, from Socrates and Jesus to our own day, till it was too late to make amends to the object of their ingratitude. I think you mistake your countrymen somewhat, the papers do

464 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1841

not represent the thinking public — and I suppose the un thinking public are easily led every where. You occupy a higher place than any other American author. Mr. Irving is a delightful writer, his style is classic, he makes you laugh or weep, but he does not make me think as you do. And in description of scenes and places to my mind no man equals you. Irving's genius is quiet and gentle fol lowing more in old models. Yours is bold and original. When we read Irving we think how sweetly he writes. When we read Cooper we are absorbed by his subject, or our minds have been set to thinking and extending his views. Will you pardon this second interruption of your privacy. With desires that our common country may learn to cherish genius, I am yrs

Thos. Baldwin

There was this paragraph in the paper, which I take, on Monday last. "So much misrepresentation has been indulged in towards this gentleman by a portion of the press, that we doubted the statement. The letter of Mr. Cooper confirms the justness of our doubts. Sueing edi tors is not the best method of conciliating the press, but no one can blame a resort to the laws when it is for pro tection against a spirit of determined persecution." I hope my countrymen will soon learn that the most effective method of promoting their country's glory is by cherish ing her men of genius, and more particularly so in the infant state of literature.

Your country owes you a heavy debt of admiration and gratitude, and I for one acknowledge the obligation to the full. And more particularly for your flattering notice of my letter. After I had written it I felt some fears that you might publish it as another evidence of the effrontery of Americans. I had thought myself beyond being influ-

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 465

enced by our venal press, but it proved I did not know myself. I shall not intrude upon you again. With deep admiration for your genius and gratitude for the char acter you have given to American literature, I am your obt. Serv.

Thos. Baldwin J. Fenimore Cooper, Coopers town

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Philadelphia, Saturday, Feb. 5th, 1842 Dearest,

Soon after my last was written, Kit Hughes came to see me. He had come on from Baltimore with Ingersoll, and was waiting for the funeral. I have seen Dr. Mitch ell, accidentally, and from him got the particulars of the poor girl's death. Mrs. Charles Ingersoll also gave me some particulars. It seems she was declining some months, though her father did not seem to be aware of it. They all went to Washington early in January, but Mary Ingersoll became so weak and languid that her father brought her back and left her with her uncle Ben Wilcocks. He then returned to his post. Dr. Mitchell says she complained of indigestion and of an inability to sleep from pain in her back. A little opium quieted the first, and the last was removed from cupping. He and Chapman thought her in no danger. Saturday morning, to his astonishment, he found her with her pulse at the elbow. She had been heated in the night, and taken a little cold in consequence of having had most of the bed clothes removed. He gave her, in wine glasses, quite a pint of medicine before he could bring back the pulse. At the next visit she had relapsed, and brandy would not affect her

466 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1842

pulse. He then wrote for her father, and in an hour she died. Her death was easy, and with full consciousness.

She was buried Thursday. I wrote Ingersoll a note, and he sent me a particular invitation. The funeral was large and highly respectable. I never saw stronger mani festations of sympathy. Poor Ingersoll stood it pretty well, but he staggered at the grave. A hundred ladies were there. I saw all the Ingersoll family, dressed so plainly and so differently from what was usual as to make it difficult to recognize them. The Miss Wilcocks looked really of the ordinary height, they were so bowed down. They were not with their cousin when she died. Mrs. Charles Ingersoll was greatly agitated. I walked with Gurney Smith, who is Ingersoll's ex-warden. The Bishop was there, but Mr. Odenheimer officiated, and badly. He does not read well, and he spoiled that beautiful service.

Dick s'ennuie remarkably, but, being slow coach, he does not fidget much. He declines going to Washington, and I question a good deal if he would go into the next street without some prompting. A segar and a book is all he asks. Horace Walpole's letters, which I have, are too lively, however.

I shall bring home several books, and Horace among others.

I have seen Barton and the Willings. The latter are just opposite to me, at the Marvin House. I met Eliza Patterson in the street, and am to go and see her. Phila delphia is very triste on account of its money affairs. The State interest is not paid, though it is said it will be soon. Things are a little better within the last few days.

Barton laughs heartily at the lost chapter, and says it is unanswerable. The exception that proves the rule is

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 467

exquisite. But Webb is figuring in the same paper as a bankrupt and as a manager of the Dickens Ball ! Could this happen in any other country4?

Mr. Mclntosh went through here two or three days since. I asked after Lord Marpeth. He is at Washington amusing himself. Is he in love, or likely to be married? No — he is too sensible for that. Hum. He tells me he has one boy, and intends passing the summer here. I fancy Madame doesn't like it, on the other side. Perhaps he will agree with me now on the expediency of Ameri can girls marrying Englishmen. By the way, I am told Marpeth did pass a good deal of his time in Boston. Mrs. Willing tells me he greatly prefers Boston to New York.

Gardner has married one of his two daughters to a Louisiana senator. He resigns, and takes his bride south with him.

This is going to be the hardest summer we have had in years. Everybody is poor, feels poor, talks poor. Books sell very heavy, though near 2000 of Naval History have gone off. That book's sale remains to come. It ought to produce me $200 or $300 a year for eight and twenty years to come, and probably will. They print only 3000 of the Admirals. I like the book, though I doubt its very great success. The Effingham book produces no talk. It is said to be contemptible by some journals, which I fancy is the real fact.

Adieu, my dearest — kiss all the girls, and be very pru dent in this treacherous weather. Two accidents have hap pened on the Pittsfield road, since we left home. One just before us, and one two or three days after us. In the last two men were killed. We shall not go back that way, the road being bad. God bless you all.

J. F. C.

468 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1842

FROM BISHOP DE LANCEY

New York, Feby. 9. 1842, I this evening had a conver sation with Mrs. Davis, an old Lady 80 years old, born in New York, the wife of a tory Gentleman who left N. York on the evacuation in 1783. They returned in 1791. She and her daughter Mrs. Smith are boarding at the Rev. Dr. Hugh Smith's, where I am boarding with my family, two of my boys being under treatment for the spine complaint. Mrs. Davis is the sister of the first wife of the late Bp. Richard C. Moore. Mrs. Davis informed me that the author of the Song burlesquing the putting up of a Liberty Pole in the city of New York about the beginning of the Revolutionary war, was the Rev. Mr. Vardell. That the Individual called in the Song, Johnny S. was John M. Scott, Esq., a Presbyterian Lawyer, that William Smith, another Presbyterian Lawyer, was meant by the man "with hands so clean and heart so pure." That these two Gentlemen lived in Broadway on the opposite sides of Garden St., Mr. Scott on the south side, that the Liberty Pole stood in the middle of the street, about opposite to Ann St. — to use her expression, it was put up "in the fields." That the House of James De Lancey, called the Bowery House, was near the East Rirer with a double row of trees from the bowery to the House, wh. trees were destroyed in the war, and Mr. De Lancey obtained for them one hundred guineas, from the English Government. She said that the above named William Smith, from being a whig, turned Tory, and was rewarded with some high office in Canada. Upon being asked what induced him to become a Tory, she said, "be cause it was more profitable."

Upon being told that he had been represented as hav ing played a double part during the revolution and re-

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 469

vealed the secrets of the torys to the whigs, she said "it was just like him."

W. H. De Lancey Bp. Moore was son of Lambert Moore.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Globe, March 22d, 1842

Cruger and his wife are separated again. Cutting's affair has also produced a separation between Hosack et sa femme. They say it is all passion in this last chapter, and no criminality, the Doctor refusing to live with a woman who has bestowed her heart on another man. Cut ting went to Europe to dissipate his passion, which was certainly better than dissipating it a la nouvelle Angle- terre. Mrs. Willing said it was a novelty to hear of such a thing as any passion in an American intrigue.

By the way, Mrs. Willing has let out the secret of Irving's appointment. He wrote to Webster to remem ber him if anything good offered. So that instead of not asking for the office, he asked for anything that was good. There has been more humbug practiced concerning this man than concerning any other now living.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

New York, May 13th, 1842

I wrote you a line from Fonda, to say that I had beaten Weed, a verdict of $323. This was too little, but it has proved a great source of mortification to them, as is shown by their papers. Most of them do not speak of my verdict at all, and all round we have proofs of their mortification.

We go on, to-day in the Stone case, though he is on

470 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1842

trial to-day in his indictment, and we may not get seri ously at work until Monday. We shall be through time enough to get up to Saratoga by the 23d.

I have been so busy preparing for the arbitration that I have nothing to tell you. Dick and myself are well. A good deal of interest is felt about the Stone case, and I expect a large audience. I shall write on Sunday more fully and will then enter into details. Now, I am sur rounded by lawyers.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

New York, May 14, evening, 1842 Dearest Sue,

In my last, I forgot to mention The Two Admirals. Spencer alluded to it in the trial at Fonda, observing that Mr. Weed had been praising it, and spoke highly of it. This was encouraging, you will say. Webb has extolled it, and so has Benjamin! All this is a part of a system of tactics, but the book is decidedly successful, so far as I have heard. Several individuals have spoken of it to me. In addition Lea & Blanchard stand firm.

Every thing shows that the late verdict has produced an effect. Not even a sneer has appeared against it in any journal here. Two or three have not spoken of it, but most have, simply announcing the fact. Weed is here, and I fancy pretty uneasy. He wishes to amend his plea in the next case at Saratoga, but we have refused to consent. Dick thinks they will not come to trial. Greeley wishes to refer. I cannot now say what we shall do.

I find the battery much more frequented than formerly. It is now covered with well dressed people every after noon, and the young men resort there to smoke. It is very pretty, though not yet a villa rock.

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 471

I had a few minutes' talk with the Chief this morn ing. It was all about grasses and farming.

Sunday — i o'clock.

Dick and I have just returned from a visit to the Columbia 44, Capt. Parker, lying in the Hudson. We arrived just as service was commencing, and heard it all. The Chaplain read a part of the morning prayer, and delivered a brief extemporary address on the subject of condition of the spirit after death. The men were atten tive, and the discourse was a good one, and well adapted to the congregation.

The weather is rather raw, with the wind at South East, but I feel perfectly well. My labours will com mence at YZ past 4 to-morrow, and when you get this letter we shall be fairly engaged in the subject. I think we shall get through by Wednesday and I feel great confidence in the power of truth.

You need scarcely expect to hear from us again before it is all over, though I may write, if anything particular occurs. I have not heard from home, though Dick has, and tells me you are all well.

Adieu, my love. Kiss the children, and rest assured of my tenderest affection.

J. F. C.

When Fenimore Cooper was preparing the account of the Battle of Lake Erie for his Naval History he reached the conclusion that an injustice had been done Jesse Duncan Elliott, who was second in command to Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, and who was accused of failing to bring his ship, the Niagara, to the assistance of Perry, when the latter's flagship, the Lawrence, was disabled, as promptly as he should and could have done.

At this time Cooper did not know Elliott and had no motive

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but the desire of accuracy in his account of the battle and of Elliott's conduct.

Perry and the Battle of Lake Erie were at the time looked upon as distinctly the property of Rhode Island, as was the Constitu tion of Boston, and any criticism of either was bitterly resented locally.

The accuracy of Cooper's account of the battle was attacked in the most venomous and abusive manner in pamphlets and by certain of the newspapers ; among the most violent of the articles were the criticisms in the Commercial Advertiser written by William A. Duer. After nearly a year's delay Cooper sued Wil liam L. Stone, the owner and editor, for libel. Stone objected to the trial of the case by an ordinary jury, pointing out that only a trained lawyer would be competent to review the evidence. Cooper thereupon proposed that the decision should be rendered by three arbitrators or referees; and it was so agreed. Samuel Steevens, Daniel Lord, and Samuel A. Foot were selected, one by each of the parties and the third by mutual agreement. The cause was heard and the arbitrators decided every point in Cooper's favor — five of the eight questions submitted, unanimously, and the other three with the dissent of one arbitrator to a minor point in each case. They also directed Stone to publish the full text of the decision in Albany, New York, and Washington papers and to pay the costs of the arbitration.

The decision in effect found that Cooper's version was accurate in every particular and that the critic had not faithfully fulfilled the office of reviewer; that the review was untrue and was not written in a spirit of impartiality and justice.

It is an interesting fact, and perhaps as well stated here, that Cooper succeeded in every lawsuit which he brought, except one, in which the Court held that the statement made by one of the newspapers sued did not constitute a libel. The verdicts often seemed small, but the juries and the Court always eventually held that the plaintiff was justified in bringing the suit. Morally and legally Cooper was right and his opponents and critics wrong.

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 473

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Globe, New York, May 21, 1842 My dear Wife,

The arbitration commenced on Monday, at J/£ past 4, P. M. I opened in a speech of about two hours. It is generally admitted that the opening was effective. Camp bell followed — then came some witnesses on Tuesday, and a part of Campbell's summing up. He made a very fair speech, concluding it on Wednesday afternoon. Dick came next on the questions of law. After speaking very well for an hour, he was stopped by the arbitrators, who told him they preferred to hear the other side. This was tantamount to saying that his views so far were their own. As they never asked him to resume, we infer that they were with us on the law. Bidwell followed. He com menced about 8 on Wednesday evening, and finished about eight on Thursday, having spoken about five hours in all. I commenced summing up when Bidwell sat down, and spoke until past ten, when we adjourned. Yesterday, Friday, I resumed at four, and spoke until past ten again, making eight hours, in all. Here the matter rests for the decision.

At first the papers were studiously silent, and our audi ences were respectable, though not large. The opening, however, took, and many attended in expectation of hear ing my summing up. On Thursday numbers of Duer's friends appeared, and some twenty of my most active enemies crowded within the bar. Among others, Jordan came and took a seat directly opposite to me, and for three hours his eyes were riveted on Bidwell. When I rose, he was within six feet of me. For half an hour I could see that his eyes were fastened on my countenance; then his

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head dropped, and for an hour it was concealed. He could stand it no longer, got up, and went out. Stone's counte nance changed, became gloomy, Duer went out, and I had not spoken the two hours before all that set vanished. The impression was decided on Thursday, when I closed, and the next day there was a throng. I now spoke six hours, and all that time the most profound silence pre vailed. I do not believe a soul left the room. When I closed there was a burst of applause that the constables silenced, and a hundred persons crowded round me, two- thirds of whom were strangers. There is not the smallest y doubt that we have carried all before us, so far as the impression of the audience was concerned.

I tell you this, my love, because I know it will give you pleasure. Dick has just come in, and says he has seen the Chief Justice, who tells him that all he has heard speak on the subject say we have altogether the best of it.

I am well, but excessively tired, and can only tell you my present movements. There will be no trial at Saratoga on account of Willard's indisposition. I shall remain here to make arrangements about Le Feu-follet, and be home about the 1st June. Dick will leave here to-morrow, and will provide you with money.

My last victory over Weed appears to have stopped his mouth. The tide is unquestionably turning in my favor, and the power of the press cannot look down truth as completely as was thought.

I have not yet seen May or anybody, and can tell you no news. Let me find a letter here, about the 2yth or 28th. With love to all,

Tenderly yours,

j. P. c.

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 475

FROM HAMILTON FISH

New York, June 17, 1842 My Dear Sir

I have this moment received the award in the suit against Stone. I have barely time to run my eyes over it, and to say that they decide eight points, every one of them in your favor.

1. — "That the plaintiff would be entitled to a verdict from a Jury — that the defendant within sixty days pay the plaintiff $250 for his outlays in the suit, and also $50 for his outlays, etc., under the arbitration — the arbitrators determine to receive no compensation." 2.— "That he (the plaintiff) has faithfully fulfilled his obligations as a Historian."

3. — "That the aforesaid narrative of the Battle of Lake Erie is true in its essential facts."

4. — "That it (the narrative) was written in a spirit of impartiality."

5. — "That the writer and publisher of said Review in writing and publishing the same, has not faithfully ful- filled his obligations as a Reviewer," and they assign the facts on which this opinion is founded. 6. — "That the said Review is untrue, in the following particulars" — (stating the particulars). 7. — "That it (the Review) was not written in a spirit of impartiality and justice."

8. — "That the defendant is bound to make reparation, and that this award shall be published at his expense in the manner, and within the time, provided in the above recited paragraph of submission."

The Award is signed by all three arbitrators. Mr. Foot gives an "opinion dissenting from parts of the award,"

476 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1842

which he desires to be published with the Award. I have

not time to read his opinion before the closing of the mail.

Very Respectfully and truly

your friend and obed Servt

Hamilton Fish

P. S. Mr. Campbell shewed me Mr. R. Cooper's letter desiring him to hand me the award. The award and opin ion together are written on seventeen pieces of paper ; the postage would exceed the sum mentioned in Mr. Cooper's letter ($2). I therefore retain it subject to your directions. J. Fenimore Cooper Esq., Cooperstown

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Globe, Tuesday, June 2Qth [28th?], 1842 Dearest —

I got here this morning: pretty tired, but much im proved in stomach. The shaking has done this, at least. I found Stephen Rensselaer in the boat, and he gave me a berth in his state room, where I passed a cool com fortable night.

Stone has published the award. It is not long, and he has made his arrangements to have it published in Wash ington and Albany. I saw Lord to-day, and he says Foot — entre nous — is a fool. His published opinions are anything but forceful, or elaborate. I can draw a coach and six through them, but they seem to have made no impression.

The arbitration has been a dear triumph. I do not send the award, but Dick will find it in one of the Albany- papers this week.

Webb's duel makes a good deal of fun. They say the

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 477

wound looks serious from the condition of his body, but I fancy it will not come to much.

Very tenderly yours,

J. F. C.

PART FOURTH

From July ist, 1842, to the date of Cooper s death, Sep tember i4th, 1851. During this time he lived in Coopers- town, New York, and wrote The Wing-and- Wing ; Wyandotte; Ned Myers; Afloat and Ashore; Satanstoe; Miles Wallingford; The Chainbearer; The Redskins; The Islets of the Gulf (also published under the title Jack Tier; or The Florida Reefs) ; The Crater; The Oak Openings; The Sea Lions; The Ways of the Hour; and a number of biographies and short articles.

1842-1851

FROM ELIZABETH F. ELLET

New York, July 6th [1842] Dear Mr. Cooper

You so kindly encouraged me to apply to you for assist ance or advice in the matter of the Revolutionary women, that I venture again to trespass on your time in their be half. But it will not involve any trouble for you to answer my enquiries.

It is stated in Bolton's History of Westchester County, that you drew the character of "Frances," in The Spy, after Miss Mary Philipse, the daughter of Hon. Frederick Philipse. Is that true? The lady is one of my heroines, and I can obtain no particulars respect ing her from her relatives, reverentially as they cherish her memory. Mr. Sabine has furnished me with almost all the details I have. The portrait in the possession of Mrs. Gouverneur is to be engraved.

Do you think it beyond doubt that Mrs. Gates taught school in Richmond, Virginia, previous to her marriage with the General? If you do, I will insert it, though Mr. Sparks is of the opinion that Gen. Gates married in England.

In the brief sketch of Alice De Lancey Izard, I have mentioned that Susan, the daughter of Col. Stephen De

482 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1842

Lancey, whose first husband was Lieutenant Colonel William Johnson, became the wife of Lt. Gen. Sir Hudson Lowe, and was the beautiful Lady Lowe praised by Buonaparte.

Charlotte married Sir David Dundas, and was the one whose mother hid in a kennel, and who was herself on one occasion concealed in a bin. I believe I have remembered this correctly.

I received a few days since a most interesting letter from Mrs. Martha Wilson of Lakelands, near Coopers- town. She favors me with some of her recollections of Mrs. Washington and others, and with a few particulars concerning herself. She refers me for further details of herself to her nephew, the Rev. Charles Stewart of the Navy. I have not heard from him, though I sent a note to his house, and doubt not he is out of the city. Should you see any of the family, will you have the kindness to mention that I have not been able to see Mr. Stewart? But do not take any trouble about it, as I may yet succeed.

My book is in press, and the printers proceed very rapidly; so that I am much hurried and full of anxiety for fear of mistakes. Scarcely any authorities agree with each other with regard to facts ; and tradition I find can not at all be depended on. I have received many interest ing anecdotes which I am compelled to reject because they cannot be substantiated, and in some cases conflict with historical facts.

Should you visit New York again, I hope you will let Dr. Ellet and me have the pleasure of seeing you. My address is 624 Broadway. Mrs. Wayne of South Caro lina (Miss Morris that was) expects shortly to visit Cooperstown, and wishes much to renew an early ac-

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 483

quaintance with you. I have promised her -a letter to you. I remain, with high regard Dear Sir

very truly yours

E. F. Ellet J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq.

Elizabeth F. Ellet was the wife of William F. Ellet, M.D., and the daughter of William A. Lummis, M.D. She was the author of some fourteen books, among them The Women of the American Revolution.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Philadelphia, Thursday, [September] 29th, 1842 My dearest Sue —

You have seen Wilkes' sentence. It is just what I expected; relieving him from opprobrium of all sort, though the secretary's reprimand manifests feeling. Bal- lard, it is said, is suspended for a year without pay. It is a hard sentence. It is now reported that Gallagher will resign. There will good come of all this.

I have dined with young Charles, Barton, and Miller. The latter was at my door early the evening I arrived and has been very civil. If I were a young lady I should expect a proposal.

Joe Ingersoll is well, and in tolerable spirits; though he keeps quite out of the world. His brother Charles has had a fall, but is better. Barton was really learned and eloquent the day I dined with him. We were tete-a-tete. It is a pity the menage is not happier.

I have sold the Autobiography to Graham, 5° pages for $500. I shall finish it as soon as Le Feu-Follet is off my hands — but I must come home to write the three last

484 CORRESPONDENCE OF Ci842

chapters. I have sold, on a check plan, to L. & B. I get .• some down, some notes — in all $500 — with rights re- ^ served. It is an experiment.

Verron's trial for perjury is just over — result un known.

Yours tenderly, with love to the girls —

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Saunderson's, Oct. 2d, 1842 My dearest wife,

When I got here I found I had a great deal to do, or a very little. It has resulted in the first — and I have done a great deal. I have written a biography of Dale, and it is printed. So I am in type, already, for November and December. January, February and March we shall come out in the autobiography, and there will follow, Perry, already written, in April and May. This will leave me my own time, after about a fortnight's work on the auto biography, to concoct anything else.

Shubrick has gone on to New York, and I have not seen him — unless he got on to-morrow morning. Conner, who is here, however, says he must be in New York to morrow. I shall find him there, on my way home. You will see me probably on Saturday next — possibly not until Sunday. This will make an absence of nineteen or twenty days, instead of a fortnight — but much will have been accomplished in the time.

I have ail but one chapter of Feu-Follet written, and half the second volume is printed. I am to be through here by Wednesday at latest.

There will be scarcely any books, none having been published but medical works.

1842] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 485

Books begin to move again, however, and times will soon be better.

Pennsylvania stocks look up a little, and the better opinion is that they will pay in the end. Biddle, however, thinks it still a matter of question, whether they pay all.

Webb is indicted for his duel, though I question if much will come of it. He is such a talking bully that men get wearied of him, and a portion of the community seem disposed to put a stop to his bullying at least. I fear this affair may throw some impediment in the way of his trial at Fonda. The least penalty, if convicted, is five years in the State Prison.

I send this to-night that you may know I am well, and my expectations. I have no letter, but hope to find one at the Globe. It is now five and I am going to dinner, breakfasting at eleven, and munching a few peaches about nine in the morning.

My tenderest love to all, and to none more than to yourself.

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Ballston, Thursday, 3 P. M., Dec. 8th, 1842 Dearest,

Weed has come up, and his affair is settled. He has paid costs and counsel fees, agrees to pay the verdict last obtained, makes a full retraction of this libel, and a gen eral retraction of all the others, and I let him off, until he misbehaves again. This is as complete a triumph as we could obtain — so every one here seems to think, and so we think.

Greeley has prepared a speech, and is anxious to deliver it. His friends advise him to retract, but he must have

486 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1842

his speech — We shall try his case to-morrow and shall be home to a tea-dinner on Saturday: with a verdict of from $200 to $400.

There is an intelligent bar here, and we pass our time in gossip. Col. Young is here, and I find him an amusing companion.

Dick is well, and smokes. I never was better, and so the world jogs.

With best love to all, I am Dearest Love

Yours as tenderly as ever

J. F. C.

Thurlow Weed, of the Albany Evening Journal, was born at Cairo, Green County, New York, November 15, 1797. He died at New York City, November 22, 1882. He was a noted American journalist and politician. He was educated as a printer, served in the war of 1812, was editor of various papers in New York state; but became famous as editor of the Albany Evening Journal (1830-1862). During the Civil War he supported Lincoln and was sent by him on a mission to Europe, 1861-1862. He worked in a printing house at Cooperstown when a young man.

RETRACTION OF THURLOW WEED

The Publication to be set out in full, embracing the letter from Fonda and the comments.

The above article having been published in the Albany Evening J ournal of Nov. 22, 1841, on a review of the matter and a better knowledge of the facts, I feel it to be my duty to withdraw the injurious imputations it con tains on the character of Mr. Cooper. It is my wish that this retraction should be considered as broad as the charges.

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 487

The Albany Evening Journal having also contained various other articles, reflections on Mr. Cooper's char acter, I feel it to be due to that gentleman to withdraw every charge that injuriously affects his standing in the community.

It having been submitted to me to determine the nature of the reparation due to Mr. Cooper from Mr. Weed, I have decided that Mr. Weed sign the foregoing retrac tion and publish it together with the article of the 22 of November, 1841, in the Albany Evening Journal.

Daniel Cady

I agree to publish the foregoing in the Albany Evening Journal.

Thurlow Weed.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Albany, Jan. 4th, 1843 Dearest,

I had a good time down, though it was eight before we got in. Sarah was placed safely in her school, and I went to Lawdom. There I found Ben Nicols, who is one of the members from Suffolk, looking like a lad of five and thirty. He is a great humbug, in the way of looks, cer tainly. Cousin David is in the field, again.

Mackenzie's affairs look bad enough. The report he sent to Washington is considered to be the work of a man scarcely compos mentis. I never read a more miserable thing in my life — he has actually got in one of the prayers he read to his crew. To crown all he admits he told Spen cer that he would not be hanged if he got in, on account of his father's influence, and he actually recommends his nephew to fill his vacancy. In a word, such a medley of

488 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

folly, conceit, illegality, feebleness and fanaticism was never before assembled in a public document.

I am to dine with Stevenson to-day, and I shall go down via New Haven to-morrow. By this road I get a good night's sleep. The thermometer was 10 below zero last night, and only 2 above at ten o'clock. This is our cold weather. Tell Dick Col. Young got $900. damages. He had the good jurors, and some of ours. Weed has got back, but, as yet, has said nothing. The attempt on the legislature will be abandoned; first, because it won't suc ceed, and next because it might equalize the law in civil and criminal cases.

Tell Paul I saw Professor Webster yesterday, and he gave him a good character. He gave poor Phil as bad a one as possible. With tenderest love, ever yours,

J. F. C.

TO MRS. COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Philadelphia, Jan. loth, [1843] Dearest,

Wing-and~Wing has only done so so. It is well re ceived, but the sales but little exceed one-half of what they ought to be. About twelve thousand copies have been sent off. I consider the experiment a failure, though we may sell five thousand more. The season is against us. We should have done better in the summer. I shall touch about $500 here, this time. It is better than nothing, but not half what I expected to receive.

I dined yesterday with Harry Ingersoll, whose father was present. To-day, I am to dine with Ben Wilcocks. His nieces are with him. The two brothers live together, en garfons, at Washington. The Wilcocks family is not likely to be extinct.

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 489

Harry Ingersoll and I had a long tete-a-tete, after dinner, in which I got much navy gossip. He gave me the whole history of Charles Stewart's being sent home. It is a terrible story to tell of a chaplain, but cannot be written. He has no standing whatever, though of his crime it is possible he may be innocent.

Everybody is talking of Mackenzie's affair. As yet it looks worse and worse for him, though they say the sec retary will sustain him. If he attempt it against the evi dence, it will only break him down himself. Gen. Well, Govr. Kemble, and one or two more of us, at Gen. Cad- walader's, agreed last evening. Every man of mind thinks in the same way about it.

Griswold goes to Europe in the spring; how long to remain, I know not. Mr. Herbert, an Englishman, will take his place.

The taverns are thin, a few persons are moving. Ogden says New York was never duller in a business light, and he sees dullness in perspective. A little check to go ahead- ism will do no harm.

I am well, and in good spirits. The sight of a bride groom fourteen years older than myself makes me feel young again, though he will swear more in a minute than I can swear in a year.

The weather is very mild — so much so that I feel no inconvenience in writing without a fire — I suppose you have a thaw.

I went alongside of the Somers, and saw the fatal yard at which Phil was swinging little more than a month since. I am told the old officers shake their heads.

With tenderest love to all,

Yours J. F. C.

490 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

FROM FITZ-GREENE HALLECK

Globe Hotel, Jany. 18, 1843 My dear Sir,

I have hoped to have the pleasure of handing you the enclosed in person, but have not been so fortunate as to find you at your lodgings. Allow me to congratulate you upon your success thus far in combating the spirit of Evil, embodied in a work of that evil disposed person John Milton, the author of a defence of "the liberty of unlicensed printing."

Do me the kindness on your return home to present my compliments to the Ladies of your family, and believe me with the greatest regard most truly yours

Fitz-Greene Halleck J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq., Globe Hotel

FROM NED MYERS

Sailors Snug Harbor, Staten Island,

January 23, 1843 Sir

Excuse the liberty I take in addressing you, but being anxious to know whether you are the Mr. Cooper who in 1806 or 1807 was on board the ship Sterling, Cap. John son, bound from New York to London, if so whether you recollect the boy Ned whose life you saved in Lon don dock, on a Sunday, if so it would give me a great deal of pleasure to see you, I am at present at the Sailors Snug Harbor, or if you would send me your address in the city, I would like to call upon you.

I have lately been to the eastward and have seen Cap-

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 491

tain Johnson who is now well and in good circumstances, should you be the person described Cap. Johnson would be much pleased to hear from you.

Respectfully,

your obt servt.

Edward R. Myers. Jas. Fenimore Cooper, Esq.

TO PAUL FENIMORE COOPER, GENEVA, NEW YORK

Home, Mother's Birthday, Jan. 28, 1843 My dear Boy,

You will have heard of my return, and that I went no further than Philadelphia. The experiment of Le Feu- Follet has done admirably, but would have done better with a little more experience on my side. Next time, I shall make a better bargain.

The Somers affair makes much conversation. The bet ter opinion is everywhere against him, though there is a desperate effort making to get Mackenzie out of the scrape. Of the final decision of the country I entertain no doubt, though there is an evident desire to shield him among certain officials. All relating to the Court of In quiry has been badly managed, and leaves a suspicion of favoritism. Still all the captains with whom I have con versed think him wrong.

The leading points are these: Spencer tells Wales his plans, to induce the latter to join him. He says he has about /ti?<?72/y-seven concerned. These, then, were the most he had engaged. Mackenzie reasons exactly the other way; he thought twenty was the least number opposed to him. This fact, alone, proves the frame of mind under which he acted. Of course Spencer, in cajoling a recruit,

492 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

put his best foot foremost — he boasted of all he had, and, as his own muster-roll subsequently showed, he boasted of more than he had. This paper has four down as cer tain. One of these four was Phil, himself, and another was Wales. Wales was clearly uncertain. He enlisted at nine o'clock at night, after the lights were out, and he swears that this was the first he had heard of the mutiny. Of course his name was put down next morning, the day Spencer was arrested, and this list was then complete. Three men certain, did not make a formidable mutiny — but there were nine doubtful. The doubtful were sure to join the strongest side. But four of these doubtful were marked as likely to join before the rising. Well, this makes but seven in all, and surely a brig of 266 tons could hold seven, or seventeen, or seventy prisoners, if necessary. Suppose she had taken a pirate; what would she have done with the crew? Hang them, by way of pre caution4? Mackenzie had all the evidence in his posses sion of the feebleness of this plot, and yet he hangs one man, whose guilt, to say the least, was questionable !

I saw Elihu Phinney on my way to New York. He was on board the boat from New Haven, going to pass a few days with the Stewarts. He looked well, and seemed in good spirits. He says the work is hard at Yale, but thinks you could have led your class there, and fancies a deal of honor lost, in consequence of your tail being eight or nine instead of eighty or ninety. Rensselaer is toll loll, and he, Rens says, is loll toll. I fancy neither is in the first twenty.

Weed has given up, and paid his verdict. He appears disposed to be quiet. Stone's demurrer was argued on Friday; result not known. Greeley pays.

I had a merry time in Philadelphia, having got into the

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 493

middle of a wedding. The last steamer has just brought me favorable news of Feu-Follet from England, where the book has taken well. Dick has just been here, and let me into the state of all the suits. At present we have but two; one against Stone, and one against Greeley. Webb, however, will probably come in for one or two, shortly. I met Professor Webster in Albany, and was much grati fied by his account of you. I wish, however, you would pay more attention to declamation. Speak naturally — endeavoring to speak slowly, take care not to halt, but to divide the sounds on the different syllables. I think, too, it may be of essential service to you to write well. Nature and simplicity are the great secrets, as to style, as well as to declamation. All fine writing must have its root in the ideas. You never will want the last, and the embellish ments will follow, quite as a matter of course.

I have no gossip to tell you. Sam. Starkweather and his wife, who have lived apart these ten years, have come together again. The motive is probably her annuity.

I saw a person in Albany, whom I took to be an em ploye of John C. Spencer, that had been at Geneva ob taining testimony as to Phil's character. He told me it was not so very bad. I told him, in answer, that I had received the worst accounts of it. He then told me that a letter desiring Phil to call on the writer, before the Somers sailed, and signed "Eliza," had been found in Phil's trunk. This letter was sent to Washington with an endorsement on its back, to say that it was a proof of his dissolute habits, etc. This letter was written by a female relative, who had already given poor Phil, and wished still to give him, good advice!

I have just heard that a flourish was made at Ballston, about getting up a subscription towards paying Greeley's

494 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

verdict, and that $35 were subscribed; $15 by an inn keeper who expected that the Tribune would puff his house; and then, the affair fell through!

We are all well. Dr. Bush is in your room. Last week there was a Mr. Griswold here, who announced that "a lady" — Mrs. Clark — "wishes to return thanks for her recovery, etc."

Our good bishop does ordain right and left. I hope your bishop has a little more discretion.

Give my love to all at Geneva — particularly to aunties. Aunt Cally has sent me a pair of mittens, of which, tell her, if the length of the fingers is to be taken for the measure of her love, had better never have been sent. They just reach to my knuckles. The next time let her take Judge Sutherland's hand for a measure.

Adieu, my dear boy.

Most affectionately

Your Father,

J. Fenimore Cooper

The facts of the "Somers affair" are briefly as follows : In the winter of 1842 the U. S. Brig Somers was cruising off the coast of Africa under command of Captain Alexander Slidell Mackenzie. On board as a midshipman was Philip Spencer, a boy under nineteen years of age. He was the son of the Secretary of War. According to the statement of a purser's steward by the name of Wales, young Spencer confided to him a plan for mur dering the officers of the Somers, seizing her, and turning pirate. This conversation took place November 25, while the Somers was on her way to St. Thomas.

Wales reported the conversation to the first lieutenant, and Spencer was arrested. On the 2yth the main-royal mast was car ried away, and Captain Mackenzie, thinking it part of a plan for the seizure of the ship, arrested a boatswain's mate, Cromwell,

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 495

and a sailor, Small. Later on four more of the crew were arrested.

Mackenzie, seeing, or imagining, other signs of a mutiny, on December l, after an informal discussion with some of his officers, hanged Spencer, Cromwell, and Small. There was no civil trial or court martial ; no oaths were administered or wit nesses sworn and examined.

When the above facts became known there was an outcry of protest throughout the country, and Mackenzie was ordered before a court martial, which, on March 28, 1843, acquitted him, find ing that the charges against him were not proved. The charges were: Murder on the High Seas; Oppression; Illegal Punish ment; Conduct Unbecoming an Officer; and. Cruelty and Oppres sion.

The decision was unpopular and severely criticized by many, and was elaborately reviewed and condemned by Cooper.

FROM NED MYERS

Sailors Snug Harbor, Staten Island

February 22. 1843 Dear Sir.

I duly received your esteemed favor of January 28th. and I assure you it gave me much pleasure to hear from you, and to think that you would condescend to write to an old sailor laid up in ordinary.

In your letter you desired to know Cap. Johnson's direction, and through negligence on my part, or you would have had it sooner, his direction is "Cap. John Johnson, Wiscasset, Maine." I was on a visit to Wis- casset last fall, when we were conversing about our first voyage, and of course your name was mentioned, he en quired particularly if I knew any thing about you, and expressed a desire to hear from you, he is very old, and

496 CORRESPONDENCE OF £1843

it would give him a great deal of pleasure to hear from you.

You mentioned that we had sailed on different tacks, which is a fact, yours being a smooth sea, and fair wind, while mine has been nothing but head gales, a head beat sea, sails spilt and spars carried away, and at last con demned as unseaworthy. I however have a pretty snug harbor to spend the last of my days in; altho' not as com fortable as it might, or was intended to be, by the noble donor, however better than no place to rest in.

I think however I have at last got on the right tack, making my bible my only chart to steer by, and trusting in a kind providence to bring me to a happy state here after. I was brought to this happy train of thoughts in consequence of a severe fall (which has crippled me for life) on a passage to Batavia, on board a dutch East Indiaman, the crew at the time being in a state of mutiny.

If not to much trouble I should like on your arrival at New York, for you to drop me a few lines, I feel very anxious to see you.

With Respect

Your obt servt

Edward R. Myers. J. Fenimore Cooper, Esqr, Cooperstown

FROM W. B. SHUBRICK

Navy Yard, Gosport, Va., ioth March, 1843 My dear Cooper

This affair of the Somers is certainly the most extraor dinary on record and one that has perplexed me beyond measure. When I first wrote to you on the subject I had not seen Mackenzie's narrative. The bad effect produced

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 497

on my mind by that singular production was in a measure effaced by the full and decisive opinion, in his favor, of the court of inquiry composed of men in whose judgment and intelligence I have great confidence. I have always held it to be a rule that a mutiny detected before an overt act has been committed is a mutiny suppressed, and Mack.'s crew must have been composed of very different materials from any that I have ever seen, if with the ring leaders in irons, the officers, petty officers, and a part of the crew with him, he could not have taken care of the remainder. Large allowances must be made however in these cases for an officer thrown entirely on his own re sources, with the responsibility of command for the first time on him, surrounded by very young officers and obliged to decide promptly for good or for evil ; he must certainly shew an imperious warranty for taking the law into his hands, or rather thrusting it aside, and adminis tering "wild justice." We get the testimony given before the courts in detached portions, and it is hardly safe to make up a final opinion from it. I think however that the court martial will follow in the steps of the court of inquiry and acquit. What is to be done then*? Can he be tried by a civil court*? Mr. Tarewell the great Virginia lawyer says, yes, I think so — Mr T. says a court martial is not a court of record, and therefore cannot protect him from civil process; that if the court martial should con vict Mack, and the President should pardon him, he could plead the pardon in bar of further trial — it would be a "nolle prosequi" — but that nothing else can save him. This seems to me strange doctrine ; I cannot under stand it; yet Mr Tarewell is a great lawyer. Whatever may be the result of this business Mack, is ruined for the Navy and must fall back on his other vocation of

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bookmaking. I do not think the Department is disposed to favor him now; the Spencer influence is too powerful — Mr. U. has not firmness enough to stand up against it. The appointment of the Judge Advocate was a bad one, — he is a young man and little known in his profes sion even in Baltimore.

Parker's squadron, Brandywine and St. Louis, is ready for sea — Stewart and Trenton ready for the Mediter ranean, Macedonian, Warren and Decatur preparing for the coast of Africa — several small craft, such as [illegi ble], Wave and Phoenix for different places — store ship Lexington for Mediterranean, and a brig building be sides — so you may suppose I am not eating the bread of idleness — I am heartily sick however of dock yard duty, and of navy matters generally ; our affairs at headquarters are in the hands of "shallow men and irresponsible boys."

The bureaux except Warrington and Traver must break down. Goldsborough cannot stand twelve months. Barton is a scamp who ought to be kicked out of all decent society.

We are quite well and unite in most affectionate re membrances to Mrs. Cooper and the young ladies, and Paul. — We despair of ever seeing any of you in Vir ginia — after the summer we expect to have nothing to do but to travel about, but we shall feel bound to give Cooperstown a wide berth.

As ever your friend

W. Branford Shubrick

I must give you a coincidence for the biography of Hull — the Constitution was put out of commission the very day that we heard of the death of her gallant old commander.

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 499

FROM WILLIAM JAY

Bedford, 1 5th July, 1843 My dear Cooper

I had last night the pleasure of receiving your kind letter. The Doctor, my Wife, and my Daughters have all conspired to send me a jaunting, and of course a jaunt ing I must go. It has been a question in what direction I should wander — North, East, or West? To move towards the fourth cardinal point, you know, is danger ous for such fanatics as contend that men are not chatties [sic~\. But the question is settled — "I will go and see Cooper."

I propose setting out on Wednesday next, but as you are not to be at home immediately I intend giving my Wife, Sally, and Augusta a sight of Niagara, and calling at the Hall on my return.

That your answer to Mack, will be as plain as a pike staff I do not doubt, and I am mistaken if he does not find it something of a "colt."

How piteously the Editors are squirming under the law of libel. It is certainly hard that they may not lie and slander with impunity. Why, it is by this craft that they get their living. Were they to print the truth only, their papers would be stale, flat and unprofitable. The public, I fear, would not read them, and they would be of but little use to the politicians.^

As to the Church "bobbery" to which you refer, I have not made up my mind. The protest may have been very impertinent, and it may have been very proper. All I think depends upon the facts of the case, and with those I am not yet acquainted. I have seen a good deal of the clergy. St. Paul says they are earthen vessels. Many of them are cracked, and good for nothing. Others are indeed

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fit for the Master's use. The great fault of the great mass of them is that they are too anxious to increase their own power, and not anxious enough to save the souls of their fellow men. The exaltation of the clerical order is the foundation on which the mighty superstructure of Pusey- ism rests. But we will settle the affairs of Church and State when we meet at the Hall. I anticipate much pleas ure from being the guest of my old friend. My regards to your wife. I knew and admired her before you did.

Yours truly,

William Jay J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq., Cooperstown

FROM RICHARD COOPER

Cooperstown, July 23rd, 1843 Dear Uncle

I have just seen the Commercial Advertiser of Friday the 2 1st inst., in which Mr. Stone makes some explana tions, as he calls them, in relation to your suit against him. You will see by getting the paper that he says the charge of "shaving" was mere badinage, etc., etc., and that he retracts it, in the "broadest possible manner." You will also perceive that he denies having ever told any one that you were a shaver. The article I presume will be used on the inquest in mitigation of damages, and I write this to suggest the expediency of your seeing, if possible, some one of the gentlemen to whom Stone stated in con versation that what he had published of you was true and asking him to come up. It will be important, I think, to shew this on the inquest, in case one should be taken. Stone has got in his article some statements about me, and the bill of costs on his demurrer in the first suit, that are

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 501

all false. The truth, however, is not I presume of much moment to the world. All well.

Yours very truly,

R. Cooper.

FROM EVAN EDWARDS

Charleston, So. Ca., July 25, 1843 Dear Sir,

In looking over some old papers I came across the en closed letter from my uncle Lt. Edwards, who was on board the Niagara, at the battle of Lake Erie.

I do not suppose it contains any thing that would be new to you, but as you have in your naval history and elsewhere endeavoured to clear the character of Com. Elliot, from the charge of misconduct at Erie, I take the liberty of sending it to you, as the evidence of a gallant officer in his favor. I do this more readily as in a work called the naval book, lately seen by me, certificates of Com. Elliot's officers are published condemning his con duct on that occasion.

If the letter should prove in any way useful or inter esting to you it would give me sincere pleasure, and if it does not, why it will give you no trouble.

Lt. Edwards died of Typhus fever soon after the date of his letter. As it is one of the few records we have of him, I would beg you to return it at your leisure. I have the honor to be

Your obt. svt.

Evan Edwards. J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq., New York

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LETTER ENCLOSED WITH THE PRECEDING

Dear Charles

Your letter of the Qth. inst. I have just received, and was happy to hear from you, and that you were well. As regards the particulars of the action, I presume you have seen so many accounts of it, that a repetition would be tiresome, however to gratify you, I'll give you the occur rences. I joined the Fleet at this place about the 5th. of August at which time the British fleet was off we got out and chas'd them into Madden and then returned to this place in about three or four days after, where we were reinforced by 60 men and Officers we then went in pur suit of the Enemy but found them still in Madden we laid to of and on the place for several hours but they would not come out, which we attributed to their not having their new Ship the Detroit ready, we then kept sailing about the Lake for our amusement for about six weeks now and then putting into the different harboring places the last of which was put in Bay when about 5 A. M. on the loth. Sept. the Enemy was discovered from our mast head standing under easy sail the signal from the Flag Ship was made to weigh which was imme diately and cheerfully done, the wind was light and ahead which caused us some difficulty to beat out of the Bay at 10 the wind shifted which got us the weather gauge of them and entirely clear of the Bay; we then formed a line of battle in the following order the Law rence Capt. Perry and Flag Ship ahead with the Schoon ers Ariel and Scorpion on his weather bow, the Caledonia Lieut. Turner, the Niagara Capt. Elliot with the Schoon ers Somers and Porcupine on his weather Quarter and the Schooner Tygress and Sloop Trip, Lt. Holdup [Thomas Holdup Stevens] astern of all. The Enemy in the follow-

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 503

ing order the Detroit Capt. Barclay and flag Ship ahead with the Schooner Chippeway on his Lea Bow, the Brig Hunter Capt. Bignal, the Sloop Queen Charlotte Capt. Finis, the Brig Lady Prevost Capt. Buccan and Sloop Little Belt at 20 minutes before 12 the Detroit com menced firing on our head most vessels computed at one and one half miles which was superceeded by the rest of them, at 1 2 the action became general on both sides which was kept up with great vigor and destruction until half past 2 (the Enemy from the superiority of their long Guns and which at long shot cut us most damnably for they drove their shot through and through us and made the splinters fly like the devil) when the Lawrence from her crippled state was compeled to strike, the Niagara immediately made sail and shot ahead of the Lawrence being all the time about 200 yards astern of her and laid herself within half a Pistol shot of the Detroit pouring a tremendous and galling fire into her with round and grape which she gallantly returned for about 10 minutes and then struck, about this time Capt. Perry came on board, and Capt. Elliot who we consider in no respect second to Perry in gaining the victory gallantly volunteer' d his serv ices to bring the smaller vessels into close action, and in so doing was very much exposed to the fire of the Enemy in a small boat which he row'd through the fleet in, we then en gaged the Queen and Lady Prevost raking them part of the time and with the assistance of smaller vessels coming up made them all strike in ten minutes more, the Little Belt attempted to make her escape for Madden being only 18 miles of, when the engagement took place but was caught by the Scorpion, the Niagara at the latter end of the action fought both sides of her guns, I received four Gun shot wounds besides being bruised by splinters, the

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one in my head and groin were the severest, I was just touched in the small of the back and right side, but none of them disabled me materially I suffer' d mostly from the loss of blood being very much heated at the time, how ever I am as well now as ever I was, I did not give Bobbie much trouble for I thought him too much of a horse marine to touch me with an amputating knife, not withstanding all the exertions of Capt. Elliot, you find Perry eulogised to the skies and scarcely any thing said of Elliot who brought his vessel into action with all the skill of a Sailor and fought her with all the coolness and cour age of a hero, we brought the fleet to an anchor, and re paired the damages during that evening and night and the next day proceeded to put in Bay with a fleet of 15 sail, Harrison arrived then with his army and we took them across into Canada, and a damn job we had in transport ing them, we found Madden evacuated, and all the pub lic buildings burnt, Harrison then pursued Proctor and overtook him about the Moravian villages on the river Thames and after a small skirmish took all his forces, but himself, who ran like a Son of a bitch as soon as the action commenced.

I was about the mouth of the river with the Niagara, on Lake St. Clair, a short distance from the Army, and commanded her from Detroit to Buffalo near Lake On tario with troops, and from there to this place where she with the rest of the fleet have haul'd up into Winter Quarters, and I have very little more at present than to dash about the Tavern keepers daughters and cut didos with them, I hope this will satisfy you

John L. Edwards Charles Lee Edwards Esq. Philadelphia

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 505

P.S. Answer this, remember me to all the lads, I hope I shall be in Philadelphia in the course of 6 weeks, is Shippen as close as ever with his Ale, you will have to assist me in my answer to the President of the 76 associa tion ; you must excuse all errors, for I was interrupted all the time writing

FROM G. W. L. LOWDEN

Mansion House, Brooklyn, 2Qth July, 1843 Sir,

The succinct biography of my Grand Uncle Paul- Jones in the late numbers of Graham's Magazine, I have read with much gratification. Its generally just and im partial statement of facts is peculiarly acceptable; and this feeling is little affected by differences of reasoning on, and conclusion from, them, which on my part, arise mainly from thinking a greater justification of his defects might be found in the extent of the provocations and injustice Paul-Jones endured. Shall I candidly confess, too, that I had not been quite prepared for such a biog raphy at your hands. Had a more extended notice of the subject suited your views, it would have afforded me pleasure to have contributed any information in my power, towards its efficiency.

All the biographies of Paul- Jones, hitherto published, of any authenticity, claim, for the most part, from the descendants of Jane or Janet Paul, with which those of her Sister, Mary Ann Hamilton (so called from a family of Hamiltons who assumed by marriage the name of Craik), have no connection. These biographies are more or less defective in several respects, and seem not always conceived, to my mind, in the best taste.

The publicity of private infirmities serve rarely a good

506 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

purpose, but even here, accuracy is not the less impera tive. Delia and Madame T. were distinct persons; the first, the Lady of a Scotch Baronet (a countess, it is be lieved, in her own right), — the second from her own re port, a natural daughter of Louis XV. by the Countess D'A [torn]. A system of great duplicity characterized the conduct of Madame T. towards Paul -Jones, and was the final cause of a disconnection which has been ascribed to other motives. The name of Lavendahl is erroneously given, in several publications, for Lowendahl. Catherine de Bourbon, one of the natural (legitimatized) daughters

of de Bourbon, married Count de Lowendahl,

afterwards Major General in the Danish Service, a Son (if I do not err) of Marshal Baron de Lowendahl, so distinguished in the reign of Louis XV. The Countess bore an exemplary character.

Had the position of Paul-Jones seconded his wishes in 1790 — '01, there is reason to believe, from Correspond ence, on both sides, in my possession, that his marriage with the daughter of Count Tomatis de Vallery was affected solely by that Contingency.

No interments were made in Pere la Chaise prior to (I think) 1812. Paul-Jones was buried in the old protes- tant Cemetery situate near the Barriere du Combat. This Cemetery (at that time, hors la villa) formed part of the present ground of the Hospital St. Louis and the Rue Grange des Balles. In 1815, many mourners returned to Paris, intent on removing or discovering the remains of friends or relatives, there inter'd; but the excesses of the Revolution left few places sacred; and it would be im possible, at this day, to Consummate any such errand of affection, on my part, so perfectly desired. Truly, "a strange, eventful history" !

18433 JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 507

M. Marron, the protestant pastor who pronounced the Oration at the grave, perished afterwards on the guillo tine. His Widow was recently, and is believed to be still, alive.

In your search after truth, the satisfaction you afford to others, having a prominent interest in the subject dis cussed, cannot fail, I feel persuaded, to be pleasing to you : this must be my apology, at least, for the. present expression of acknowledgement from a personal stranger, and may, perhaps, justify me in subscribing With esteem and Consideration

Sir, Very obediently, Yours

,G. W. L. Lowden. J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq., Cooperstown

FROM J. SUTHERLAND

Geneva, August 30, 1843 My Dear Cooper,

I have just read your Pamphlet on the Battle of Lake Erie. You certainly place your Adversaries in a very awkward predicament, and fully establish, as it appears . to me, the accuracy of your historical account of that Bat tle. You have shown your usual moral courage in under taking the Vindication of Elliott, in opposition to the universal Sentiment or feeling of the country. I have no doubt great injustice has been done him. There is no ground for imputing to him any want of personal courage in that affair. But still I have a sort of feeling, that a man of generous courage, a courage not merely above per sonal fear, but animated by generous impulses, would, notwithstanding the order of Battle, have gone to Perry's relief sooner than he did.

Your answer to this is that he did not know the crip-

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pled condition of the Flag Ship. If Perry required his more immediate support, he should have ordered it by signal. There is great force in this. It is undoubtedly a perfect legal defense. But still I can not but feel that he must have known, from observing the superior force which was concentrated upon Perry's Ship, that he re quired support, and that if his Heart had been exactly in the right place, he would have afforded it much sooner than he did, and I rather think this will be the final judge ment of the Country on the matter.

I am very sincerely and Truly

Yours

J. Sutherland. J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq., Cooperstown

TO MRS. COOPER, GENEVA, NEW YORK

Head's, Sunday, September iyth, 1843 My dearest Wife,

There is a report — I do not vouch for it — that Wm. Cox is to marry his cousin, Mrs. P— — , with a fortune of $15,000 per an — for $15, however, read $10,000. She is about thirty, and still a very charming woman. Should it take place, she will have the soul-felt pleasure of making her husband's fortune.

I saw Pope a day or two since. He has two children, and has gone to live at New Orleans, where he passed the last winter. Charlotte was not with him, but goes this autumn. As Pope & Aspinwall, he was thoroughly emptied. Though, it is said, he behaves perfectly well. As he failed once before, it is to be hoped he will escape in future.

I have seen Elliott. He is content to rest on my case, and in this he is wise. Poor Mackenzie is losing ground

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 509

daily. An old seaman, of the name of Sturgis, is writing against him, under his own name. Three letters have appeared; the two first are good, as far as they go, but do not go far enough, but the third is unanswerable. It is much the best thing — the only good thing, indeed — that has appeared on the subject. In a word, it is as good as it can be, on the point it treats, and makes Mackenzie thoroughly contemptible, as well as the government. I fancy the plan is to be silent on the subject of my pamphlet.

Head is quite full, and must make money. We have two scions of nobility here, besides lots of our own digni taries. Among other curiosities, we have brides without number; no less than fourteen having graced the house since it opened.

The town is filling, though it is still quite warm. Mr. Miller is in the house, and is, at this moment, about to go and hear Mr. Odenheimer, who, he says, preaches, tant soil peut, too much about the apostolic succession.

Warrington's beautiful wife is dead, and it is said he intends to go to sea. Stewart comes ashore, and, quite likely, will take his bureau. I fear Bordentown is a sad climate. The commodore is said to have a large family, and I have just heard of three young Bonapartes, by two different mothers : one French, one American. The count married the last to his cook, but she tossed up a vol-au- vent of her own, and eloped with a third lover.

Mary Head has a cage directly under my window, which contains eighteen canaries. They keep up a great chattering, though Willy could make more noise than them all put together.

I have no more news from Penn. The stock keeps rising, and will go up as I have said. When the interest

510 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

will come, it is hard to say, but most people here think before many months.

A gentleman from Paris tells me the de la Vallette menage (ci-devant Welles, fetnme) is unhappy. She is jealous, and has had a shindy with him, on a race-course, before all the world. This must be fatal at Paris, as it is making herself ridiculous. I fancy she wishes Samival back, again.

I believe I told you that Mrs. Shinley was dead, in child-birth, she and her infant. Her cousins are her heirs. She died in Demarara. A Mrs. Willing (Miss Black- well) is at the point of death, I hear.

Adieu, my dear wife; my blessing to Caroline, and Paul, and regards all round. If you can get home without me, so much the better. Pinky will lend you money, and I shall be glad to find you at the Hall.

J. F. C.

COPY OF A LETTER EVIDENTLY WRITTEN TO STURGIS, THE "OLD SEAMAN" MENTIONED IN THE PRECEDING

Phila., Sept. 17, 1843 Sir,

I have read your letters in The Courier with great interest, and being somewhat of a seaman myself, can appreciate their justice. Your third letter, I hold to be one of the simplest and best arguments on the point it treats of, that can be written.

I regard the affair of the Somers as one of the darkest spots on the national escutcheon. Apart from the feeble ness of the case that is made out in justification of her officers, it is a stain on the American character that a transaction of this nature should be treated as this has

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 511

been. Three lives were taken without legal process in any form or manner. The very circumstance that the power of the government was the agent in the act, renders the case more grave. The enquiry, altogether ex-parte, was so much worse than nothing that it was a mere mockery of justice, instead of being conducted on its plainest prin ciples. Thus Cromwell was hanged entirely on circum stantial proof. Com. Stewart has admitted to me there was no proof against him, with the exception of the fact that Spencer showed him the Greek paper. Unfortu nately, the witness to this point swore he said nothing about this occurrence, until the brig got in. Now, the issue was not the truth or falsehood of the mutiny, the reality of the danger or not, but whether such a case was made out to Capt. Mackenzie as justified him in believing, first in the unquestionable guilt of the accused, or parties exe- cuted; second, in the imperative necessity of hanging the men. This is clearly the issue, moral and legal; and it is not easy to see how a fact that appears subsequently to the deed can justify it! But circumstantial evidence al ways falls short of direct proof, and, in its nature, may, in every case, be explained. Mack, raised the question of life and death, as to Cromwell, more than twenty-four hours before he caused him to be hanged. Now, did he, or did he not, ask this unfortunate man to explain the circumstances, during all this time? — did he hang a man on circumstantial evidence, with that man at his elbow for four and twenty hours, and not question him on the subject of these circumstances'? If he did, and I believe he did, this single act stamps his conduct and his character. What just man would correct a child, discharge a servant, on circumstantial proof, without a hearing?

Then, for the proof itself. The turning point in the

512 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

whole affair was the loss of the mast. Capt. Mack, thinks Cromwell instigated Small to swing out on the brace, in order to bring down the spars, throw the boy overboard, and seize the brig while the vessel was in confusion and her true men were busy in saving the boy. I consider this as the most infatuated reasoning that a human being ever employed. It would be contemptible as an excuse for the simplest dereliction of duty — it is frightful when urged as an apology for taking life. How long a period could have passed between the issuing the order to steady the royal brace and its execution? Would not ten seconds be ample4? The coincidence could not be foreseen — I mean that of the boy's being on the yaw, and the necessity for steadying the brace — nor could the order be anticipated. The last came from the mind of the officer of the deck, and, of course, it could not have been anticipated. Small was on the bitts within ten feet of the brace, probably nearer, and ten seconds are quite sufficient for all he did. In this brief space, the man in quick physical movement, must this deep plot have been laid ! This is only one side of the case. If it were desired to do as Capt. Mackenzie suspected, what was there to prevent Cromwell from pre paring his men, which they could not have been in the case of the mast, in the nature of things, to throw a boy over board, to toss a bit of iron into the water, after dark, and call out a "boy overboard," to order a boy into fifty situa tions out-board, when he might have been tipped into the sea, under the pretence of helping him, and then effecting his purposes'? It is a libel on the common sense of Crom well to suppose he could not have devised a hundred bet ter expedients than that Capt. Mackenzie attributes to him, under circumstances which render it morally impos sible, I might almost say, to be true !

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 513

Every distinctive fact urged in the defense might be cut up just in this manner. I never looked into a weaker case, or one that is sustained so completely by fallacies. You should not be misled by the interested clamor of the towns. The country is strongly against Mackenzie, and, sooner or later, will vindicate its justice. Insurance offi cers are proverbially short-sighted, and, God be praised, they are not the nation. I do not know an officer in the navy, of any experience, whose principles and intellect I respect, and of whose opinions I am apprized, who ap proves of Mackenzie's conduct; I do know of at least a dozen captains, men of high character and intelligence, every one of whom condemns him. They are cautious in what they say, but to me, they say enough to let me understand them.

If Captain Mackenzie had any evidence before him, at all, he had ample proof that the mutiny had no extent. Even admitting Spencer's boast of twelve to twenty men to have been strictly true, whereas the true inference was that he had not half the number, what had he to fear from twenty men, with their names in his possession, the ring leaders in irons, and the arms and authority all in his own hands!

Something ought to be said of the atrocious principle that a man of war is to hang a citizen before she will ask a foreign state to receive her prisoners. If this principle be just, Capt. Mackenzie, had the Somers been lying in a friendly port, would have been compelled, under this view, to have gone to sea, in order to be able to hang his criminals ! What could have more redounded to the credit of Capt. Mackenzie himself, or of his country, than to have gone into Guadalupe and told the Governor, — "I command a vessel of war, without marines. A mutiny

CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

exists, and I must either leave the ringleaders here, or hang them at sea, without legal process. I belong to a government of laws — the ship I command is commis sioned to enforce, and not to violate, those laws — my country is tender of the life and liberties of the meanest citizen, and I prefer the self -mortification of asking your assistance, to robbing an American citizen of his rights in so grave a matter." The man who does not feel this moral truth is not worthy to hold an American commission.

But, I beg pardon. A total stranger, I have written you in haste, just after reading your third letter, and be cause I feel the deep reproach that must rest on the nation in connection with this sad affair. I wish it were in my power to send you a pamphlet of mine on the Battle of Lake Erie. That will show you the real character of Capt. Mackenzie. He has hanged Cromwell exactly as he has pressed facts into his own service, in making up his accusations against Com. Elliott. Public opinion in this country is more apt to go wrong than right, in the out set. The press is venal, corrupt, ignorant, and impervious to principle. It seizes the common mind, in the outset, but the intelligence and honesty of the community are brought to bear in the end, and then public opinion gets in the right quarter. Depend on it, sir, it is not in nature for a nation that boasts of having a government of laws, long to be blinded in this matter. But for the peculiar political position of Mr. John C. Spencer, the public mind would, long since, have been disabused on the facts and principles of this dreadful case. I hope we shall hear farther from you.

With much respect,

Your Ob. Ser.

J. Fenimore Cooper

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 515

TO MRS. COOPER, GENEVA, NEW YORK

Head's, [begun] Monday, Sept. i8th, 1843 Dearest,

I have seen the Ingersolls. Mr. and Mrs. Charles have not been to Saratoga. The latter was at the Yellow Springs in the state, where was Mrs. Pierce Butler, with whom she seemed much delighted. It seems Mrs. B. is a good fisherwoman, and she made a good deal of cancan by wearing pantaloons, with boots and straps, a man's hat, with blouse over all. It was the dress of a page on the stage. She rode miles on horseback alone, in petticoats, and fished in pantaloons, which Charles said was un reasonable, if not in bad taste. Still, Mrs. Charles says she is charming.

I met Ben Wilcocks and his wife in the street yester day. The last told me the baby was fat, which would seem to be the consideration with you mothers. Joe Ingersoll is to go to Congress again. I think it probable the Mc- Calls will keep the house in the interval.

Head is not full, but increasing. I should think he must be receiving sixty or eighty dollars a day, at a moderate expense. I think he is making money as it is. I think my money safe, and bearing a fair interest.

Wyandotte does not seem to sell well, although those who have read it speak well of it. One or two judges give it a high place in the series. Ned Myers has reached fifty pages, and will be done soon — this is Tuesday evening.

Philadelphia is reviving, and you can tell your sister that Penn. is looking up ; the stock sold to-day at fifty-six, and is firm at that price. I think the stock will go to seventy ere long, whether the interest is ever paid or not. They tell me, however, that they are paying off the domestic creditors, contractors, and others of that clan,

516 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

and when this is got through with, it is believed by good judges, the state will resume. The great abundance of / money, all over the world, just at this time, will aid exceedingly in bringing about this desirable end — desir able to Caroline and Pink, if to no one else. Tell Pink she must give an affair when she gets the back interest.

Philadelphia seems to be filling, and I never saw so many skippers in the streets, as I have seen to-day. The peaches and melons are abundant, and are getting to be good.

My pamphlet has sold well here, and has struck deep wherever it has been read. As yet, there is no answer. Griswold tells me he has conversed with several of Mac kenzie's friends about it, and especially with Charles King. The latter admitted that Burges and Duer are used up, but said that Mackenzie would annihilate me when he came to reply. After some further conversation, he confessed he thought it doubtful if Mackenzie replied at all. After probing him, Griswold was of opinion he had merely skimmed the pages, and had studiously avoided the stony parts. The Democratic Magazine has a good article on the pamphlet. It commences well. The subject, it says, has been long in dispute, until Cooper, \J like Perry in the battle itself, bears down with his heavy metal, and settles the matter at once.

Adieu, my love.

Yours tenderly,

J. F.-C.

TO MISS SUSAN COOPER, COOPERSTOWN

Philadelphia, Sept. 22nd, 1843 My dear child,

I leave this place to-day, and shall be home in all next

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 517

week, but, what day, I cannot now tell, Fan and the convention interfering.

Tilly is not a catholic.

Ned Myers is printed, and will be published the 1st Nov. Those who have read it say it will take wonder fully.

I have got your manuscript, and shall sell all your tales together. This will be the best plan. I make no doubt of getting one or two hundred dollars for the whole. A name will sell the remainder, and a little habit will set you up.

The peaches are just getting to be delicious. I tear myself from them with regret. The melons are not so good, the rains affecting them.

You see what little Vic is about, and it shows she is up to a frolic. They tell me she is now on the best of terms with her mother.

The weather here is delightful, and promises so to continue.

With love to Charlotte,

Affectionately your Father

J. Fenimore Cooper. Miss Fenimore Cooper

TO MRS. COOPER, GENEVA, NEW YORK

Philadelphia, Sept. 22nd, 1843 My Dearest Sue,

I have finished here, and shall go to New- York this evening. Ned Myers is printed, and I have sold ten thou sand copies for $1000, cash in pocket. This, with the English sale, will make good business. I shall give Ned a handsome fee.

My pamphlet tells, wherever it is read. The circulation

518 CORRESPONDENCE OF [1843

is not large, but it goes into the right hands. Capt. Stock ton is here. He tells me he was ordered on Mackenzie's court, but frankly told the secretary his mind is made up, and that he should vote for hanging the accused, if he sat. On this hint, he was excused. I am told several others got off, on the same ground. He feels confident Capt. Page was against him.

Shubrick quits the Norfolk yard on the 1st. Oct. A fine frigate is fitting for sea in each of the ports of Phila., New York and Boston.

I saw Mary Farmer in a store yesterday. She is look ing very well. She has been to see Jane, and is so pleased that she is half a mind to turn nun herself. Her admirer the old Colonel (Payne), however, stands in the way a little. He is stationed at Baltimore. She does not return to Cooperstown this Winter.

Adieu, my dearest wife — expect me soon after you get this.

Love of course. T 17 /^

J - r . C.

FROM COMMODORE JESSE DUNCAN ELLIOTT

West Chester, Nov. j, 1843

Com. Elliott's respects to J. Fenimore Cooper, esq., and would be very happy of his company at dinner with Col. R. M. Johnson, on next Saturday. He knows or expects, you cannot attend, but nevertheless feels bound to extend the invitation to such a "good and true" friend; and be assured there shall always be a knife and fork at the table for you, and if you are not present, some good fellow, worthy to represent you, shall take the seat, with "toast and speech."

All's well, and letter coming from headquarters. J. Fenimore Cooper, Esq., Cooperstown

1843] JAMES FENIMORE-COOPER 519

TO PAUL FENIMORE COOPER, GENEVA, NEW YORK

Hall, Coopers town, Nov. gth, 1843 My dear Paul,

You have doubtless heard, indirectly if not directly, of the safe arrival of your sisters. They got home in good season on Tuesday, after a tolerable passage from Fort Plain. We were all delighted to see them, especially as Caroline is looking so much better. Your mother, as usual, spent one or two evenings in useless villages, and that which Charlotte, with her German pedantry, calls smouse, came and went several times, until a particular chicken incurred great risks of martyrdom from my