The latter
wish to sap the republic by fraud, if they cannot destroy it by force,
and to erect an English monarchy in its place; some of them (as Mr.
Adams) thinking its corrupt parts should be cleansed away, others (as
Hamilton) thinking that would make it an impracticable machine. We are
proceeding gradually in the regeneration of offices, and introducing
republicans to some share in them. I do not know that it will be pushed
further than was settled before you went away, except as to Essex men.
I must ask you to make out a list of those in office in yours and the
neighboring States, and to furnish me with it. There is little of
this spirit south of the Hudson. I understand that Jackson is a very
determined one, though in private life amiable and honorable. But
amiable monarchists are not safe subjects of republican confidence.
What will be the effect of his removal? How should it be timed? Who his
successor? What place can General Lyman properly occupy? Our gradual
reformations seem to produce good effects every where except in
Connecticut. Their late session of legislature has been more intolerant
than all others. We must meet them with equal intolerance. When they
will give a share in the State offices, they shall be replaced in a
share of the General offices.
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