Having accomplished the task assigned us, we in return feel a degree of
anxiety as to the characters who will probably be candidates for those
two important offices. I believe it is pretty generally understood that
Mr. Jefferson is contemplated for President. But who is to fill the
Vice-President's chair? I should be highly gratified in hearing your
opinion on this subject; if secrecy is necessary, you may rely on it;
and, sir, as I have no personal views, you will readily excuse my
stating the present apparent wishes and feelings of the Republican party
in this city.
It is generally expected that the Vice-President will be selected from
the State of New York. Three characters only can be contemplated, viz.,
Geo. Clinton, Chancellor Livingston, and Colonel Burr.
The first seems averse to public life, and is desirous of retiring from
all its cares and toils. It was therefore with great difficulty he was
persuaded to stand as candidate for the State Legislature. A personal
interview at some future period will make you better acquainted with
this transaction. In addition to this, Mr. Clinton grows old and infirm.
To Mr. Livingston there are objections more weighty. The family
attachment and connection; the prejudices which exist not only in this
State, but throughout the United States, against the name; but, above
all, the doubts which are entertained of his firmness and decision in
trying periods. You are well acquainted with certain circumstances that
occurred on the important question of carrying the British treaty into
effect. On that occasion Mr. L. exhibited a timidity that never can be
forgotten. Indeed, it had its effect when he was a candidate for
governor, though it was not generally known.
Colonel Burr is therefore the most eligible character, and on him the
eyes of our friends in this State are fixed as if by sympathy for that
office. Whether he would consent to stand I am totally ignorant, and
indeed I pretend not to judge of the policy farther than it respects
this State. If he is elected to the office of V. P., it would awaken so
much of the zeal and pride of our friends in this State as to secure us
a Republican governor at the next election (April, 1801). If he is not
nominated, many of us will experience much chagrin and disappointment.
If, sir, you do not consider it improper, please inform me by post the
probable arrangement on this subject. I feel very anxious. Any
information you may wish relative to our election I will at all times
cheerfully communicate.
With sentiments of respect, &c.
GALLATIN TO HIS WIFE.
PHILADELPHIA, 6th May, 1800.
--The New York election has engrossed the whole attention of all of us,
meaning by us Congress and the whole city. Exultation on our side is
high; the other party are in low spirits. Senate could not do any
business on Saturday morning when the intelligence was received, and
adjourned before twelve. As to the probabilities of election, they stand
as followeth:
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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