"During all the bloody conflicts of the American Revolution, and the civil struggles out of which our system of government emerged, and the controversies through which was impressed upon it the character of a government 'by the people, for the people,' he was the apostle of human freedom, and the greatest leader of that beneficent philosophy which was embodied in our institutions. "At a time when powerful tendencies are at work to subvert the original character of our government--to break down the limitations of power established by the Constitution--to centralize the action and influence of official authorities--to create a governing class, using the machinery of government as a corrupt balance of power in the elections, and then shaping legislation and administration in the interests of the few against the many--the precepts and example of such a man as Mr. Jefferson cannot be too often invoked. "The formation of societies which can act as centres of discussion, and as agencies for the propagation of the pure principles of the fathers of the Republic, is a measure capable of great service to the people and to mankind. "With assurances of sympathy and esteem--to the members of your association and to yourself, I have the honor to be "Your fellow citizen, "(Signed) SAMUEL J. TILDEN." TILDEN TO BIGELOW (HIS HEALTH FIVE YEARS BEFORE HIS DEATH) "15 GRAMERCY PARK, NEW YORK, "_Monday evening, January 31, 1881_. "DEAR MR. BIGELOW,--I have just received and read your letter of the 18th, and resolve to answer it on the spot. I seem to be free from all engagements and obstructions, and am desirous to atone as far as possible for delinquencies in respect to your two former letters. At the end of two lines, however, I was compelled to refuse to admit a caller. With John's help, to whom I am dictating, both of us sitting before the wood-fire in the dining-room, I will ramble through a few of the many things I would like to say. "I was not without hope that you had heard of me through Poultney. Mrs. Bigelow gave me a charge to take some care of the desolate members of the family remaining in America, and I have been doing a little to entertain Poultney.