"In this connection I must tell you a story. Mr. Cambreling wrote Mr. Van Buren a long and argumentative letter in favor of the annexation of Texas while the latter was preparing his letter upon that subject. It was written in an ink which stuck the pages together, and Van Buren was foiled or gave up in the attempt to decipher it. I have a vague impression that he afterwards thought that letter might have modified his own view. Possibly it might have changed the course of events.
"Mr. Smith has brought up some photographs of three sorts. I send herewith three of each kind.
"If a man can afford the slightest pleasure to friends who have been so partial, so kind, and so faithful by a photograph, it is a real delight to comply with their wishes.
"I have not yet gone down to the city for the winter, and probably shall not until next week.
"My health is gradually improving, and I intend to persevere in living a purely physical life, alternating between out-of-door exercise and rest until the experiment shall have been fairly and fully tried.
"With best regards to Mrs. Blair, and to the other members of your family,
"I remain, very truly yours,
"(S'g'd) S. J. Tilden.
"I return Mr. Fox's letter."
JOHN C. THOMPSON TO TILDEN
"Boston, Mass., Dec. 25, '80.