His mother received this letter on June 2, 1823, and promptly wrote an earnest and pathetic appeal to Mr.[50] Federal Republicans of Massachusetts Democracy has finally triumphed over correct principles, and this State may expect to see the scenes of 1811-12 revived in all their blighting influence ;—may they be as short-lived as they were at that period. You will undoubtedly smile at my turning politician at the age of eighteen—but, ‘true 'tis, and (perhaps) pity 'tis 'tis true’—and I cannot but help smiling myself at the thought.— I have likewise published another political communication under the same signature. Besides these, I have written three other communications under the head of ‘A Glance at Europe’ —analyzing the present state of political affairs between Spain and the Holy Alliance—and which called forth a very handsome1 notice of the same from Mr. Cushing, the Editor of the Herald.— But I am at last discovered to be the author, notwithstanding my utmost endeavors to let it remain a secret.—It is now but partially known, however, and has created no little sensation in town—so that I have concluded to write no more at present. Thus you perceive, my dear mother, that my leisure moments have been usefully and wisely employed;—usefully, because it is beneficial in cultivating the seeds of improvement in my breast, and expanding the intellectual powers and faculties of my mind: wisely, because it has kept me from wasting time in that dull, senseless, insipid manner, which generally characterizes giddy youths. It is now about one year since I commenced writing for the Herald—and in that time I have written about fifteen communications.—When I peruse them over, I feel absolutely astonished at the different subjects which I have discussed, and the style in which they are written, Indeed, it is altogether a matter of surprise that I have met with such signal success, seeing I do not understand one single rule of grammar, and having a very inferior education.—But enough of my scribblings, in all conscience, for the present, to something that is more important and interesting. Write particularly where I shall find you, should I come to B., and how I shall get to your boarding place.—I cannot but2 exclaim—‘Oh! had I the wings of a dove, then would I soar away, and be with you.’ Excuse this hasty scrawl, as it is now midnight. Adieu! dear mother, and O may Heaven grant that I shall clasp you again to my throbbing breast.
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His mother received this letter on June 2, 1823, and promptly wrote an earnest and pathetic appeal to Mr.
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