Having proposed this question, Griswold argued it as one in which the interests of New York must yield to the larger interests behind, and decided that “unpleasant as the thing may be,” Burr’s election and consequent leadership of the Federalist party was “the only hope which at this time presents itself of rallying in defence of the Northern States.... What else can we do? If we remain inactive, our ruin is certain. Our friends will make no attempts alone. By supporting Mr. Burr we gain some support, although it is of a doubtful nature, and of which, God knows, we have cause enough to be jealous. In short, I see nothing else left for us.” Had this been all, though it was a rude blow to Hamilton, it might have passed as a difference of opinion on a point of party policy; but Griswold’s object in writing these excuses was to explain that he had already done more, and had even entered into personal relations with Colonel Burr in view of a bargain. What this bargain was to be, Griswold explained:-- “I have engaged to call on the Vice-President as I pass through New York. The manner in which he gave me the invitation appeared to indicate a wish to enter upon some explanation. He said he wished very much to see me, and to converse, but his situation in this place did not admit of it, and he begged me to call on him at New York. This took place yesterday in the library. Indeed, I do not see how he can avoid a full explanation with Federal men. His prospects must depend on the union of the Federalists with his friends, and it is certain that his views must extend much beyond the office of governor of New York. He has the spirit of ambition and revenge to gratify, and can do but little with his ‘little band’ alone.” Even George Cabot deserted Hamilton, and wrote from Boston to Rufus King a long letter, in the tone of indolent speculation which irritated restless fighters like Pickering and Griswold:[117]-- “An _experiment_ has been suggested by some of our friends, to which I object that it is impracticable, and if practicable would be ineffectual. The thing proposed is obvious and natural; but it would now be thought too bold, and would be fatal to its advocates as public men; yet the time _may_ soon come when it will be demanded by the people of the North and East, and then it will unavoidably take place.” He explained his favorite thesis,--the last resource of failing protestants,--that things must be worse before they were better; but closed by wishing success to Burr. “I should rejoice to see Burr win the race in your State, but I cannot approve of aid being given him by any of the _leading_ Federalists.”