Mr. John Quincy Adams delivered an address before the New York Historical Society on the 30th April, 1839, which I very, very much desire to obtain. I spoke earnestly to Mr. Schell about it the last time he was here, but I suppose he has forgotten it. I would give any reasonable price for a copy. I wish very much that you would procure me one. If this cannot be done, you might find it in some of the public libraries, and make a copy for me from pages 68 and 69, of what he says on the subject of secession.
We are getting along here in the usual style. I am not disheartened, but, trusting in God, I hope my enemies will obtain no advantage over me.
The two Harriets and Miss Hetty desire to be kindly remembered to Mrs. Henry and yourself.
With my kindest regards to her, I remain,
Yours very affectionately,
James Buchanan.
[MRS. CALEB B. SMITH TO MR. BUCHANAN.]
Washington, December 26th, 1862.
Honored Sir:—
Your check for $30 was duly received. Your benevolent wishes have been accomplished. Our Christmas feast was all that we could have anticipated, and many a poor soldier’s heart did “leap for joy.”