In Baltimore as in Washington the same perplexity exists about a Secretary of State. No one is spoken of, and it would almost seem that people do not realize your resignation. Must it be so? You know that in England we have abandoned the precedent of the minister’s retiring on a change of measures. Such, if I remember right, was the course of Earl Grey, he withstood even the majorities against the Reform Bill, and continued at the helm.
To make Mr. Calhoun feel satisfied that you should understand him thoroughly, I have written the above, but you have encouraged me to speak freely with you on all matters, and therefore I shall add as my supplement to his message, that in case you should see the advantage of Mr. Calhoun’s holding office, I sincerely hope that you and the President will make out a strong case, and overrule his delicacy; besides, he is very powerful. My confidence in him is as unlimited as it is in you, for you are both equally noble, finely tempered, faithful and pure.
Dear Mr. Buchanan, do not forget me, for I shall relate in England the considerate solicitude which you have exercised in my behalf. At your hands I have received all the assistance, all the protection which I had anticipated from the minister of my country, and my advice to all who like myself are alone and unattended will be, trust yourselves to the courtesy of the Americans, they will never fail you.
Always believe me, most sincerely, most gratefully,
Your English friend,
Sarah Mytton Maury.
P. S.—I think I should add in confidence to you that should any difficulties arise out of the Mexican war between the United States and England, Mr. Calhoun would consider it his duty, if requested by the President, to give his services in an official capacity;—of course I leave it to your judgment, to use this information as you think best, and I believe Mr. Calhoun would at once acquiesce, should such a case present itself.
[FROM MRS. MAURY.]
Liverpool, November 3, 1846.
My Dear Mr. Buchanan:—