"In the latter purpose, they would probably have succeeded had Mr. Tilden been a poor man, and dependent upon his profession for his daily bread.
"Mr. Tilden could easily accommodate himself to the choice of any good man for the Presidency, for it is no vulgar ambition which has led him to accept the prominence which his party has given him, but he cannot be expected to make the slightest concession that involves his personal honor. He will defend that as long as he has a drop of blood in his body, whoever may stand by him or desert him. Of this you may feel perfectly assured.
"Now, I do not see how it is possible for Tilden, under the circumstances, to withdraw from the canvass for 1880; and just so far as it seems impossible for him to withdraw, it seems impossible for his party to assent to his withdrawal.
"There are three questions which must take precedence of every other in the next national convention.
"1. Was Tilden elected by the people in 1876?
"2. Was Hayes counted in by corrupt and fraudulent means?
"3. Has Tilden done anything since the election to forfeit the confidence of his party or of the nation?
"Its answer to these three questions will exercise a controlling influence over its final action.
"On the proofs already in the possession of Congress, I venture to say that there could not be found a jury of twelve disinterested and unbiased freeholders in the land who would hesitate to hold—-
"First. That Tilden was elected President by the people.