HORATIO SEYMOUR TO S. J. TILDEN
"Utica, October 7, 1885.
"My dear Sir,—A few days since I received with my mail a letter from you. I glanced at it, and laid it aside with a view of reading it with attention. Since then I have been unable to find it amongst my papers. I find my memory is so much impaired that I am apt to forget what I do when I put aside with care. I cannot, therefore, write you a responsive reply. I am mortified by such mistakes, which multiply as memory fails.
"During the past eight years my memory and health have been impaired by a sunstroke.
"I am obliged to live in a quiet way at my farm; all excitements are hurtful. I have not been away from home, save to make a short journey to see one of my sisters in Madison County. I know but little about current events. I think over the past or speculate about the future.
"Now and then a reporter calls. As my views upon public [sic] are vague and vaguely expressed, they give such interpretation as they wish, so that I am frequently surprised by my opinions as they are given in the press.
"I wish I could visit New York again, but I fear I am too weak to do so. With my wishes for your health and welfare,
"I am, truly yours,
"Horatio Seymour.
"Hon. S. J. Tilden."