Douglas, Stephen Arnold (1813-1861) to N. [Prescott?]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04625 Author/Creator: Douglas, Stephen Arnold (1813-1861) Place Written: Washington, D. C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 29 June 1860 Pagination: 3 p. ; 24.8 x 19.8 cm. Order a Copy
Douglas, a Democratic presidential candidate, discusses the 1860 election. Criticizes the presidential campaign of John Cabell Breckinridge, also a Democrat, stating that "the Democratic party is divided. The Telegraphic Reports about a compromise by running a double headed ticket ... is regarded by our friends as a miserable trick, disgraceful to those who propose it and insulting to us." Claims that Secessionists are counting on the success of the double ticket. Marked confidential. Continues "Our friends here are organizing thoroughly for the fight…Our friends are forming their electoral ticket in every State in the South as well as the North. We receive the most alarming news from New York, Penn, N Jersey etc. The demonstrations for Breckenridge in the states are said to have been gotten up by the Republicans in order to elevate the crisis.... The Telegraphic reports about a compromise by running a double headed ticket is...recognized by our friends as a miserable trick, disgraceful to those who propose it and insulting to us. It is said here that a scheme has been formed to deceive...our friends…The Secessionists & the administration are counting largely on this movement['s'] success.... It cannot be denied that...[this act of] treachery...discourages the timid. One blast from your trumpet will blow this scheme to atoms. The Secessionsts are becoming alarmed & desperate. They are dismayed by the coolness, energy and determination of your friends. The reaction in our favor has already commenced. A bold fight in the South will enable us to make great [gains] at the North."
Douglas served as a United States Representative from Illinois 1843-1846, and as Senator 1847-1862.
Confidential
Nothing but the constant demands on my time night and day has prevented my writing you before and returning the grateful service of my obligations to you. Our friends here are organizing thoroughly for the fight. The executive committee...have already entered upon their duties and will be...vigilant until the election. Our friends are forming their electoral ticket in every State in the South as well as the North. We receive the most alarming news from New York, Penn, N Jersey etc. The demonstrations for Breckenridge in the states are said to have been gotten up by the Republicans in order to elevate the crisis.... The Telegraphic reports about a compromise by running a double headed ticket is...recognized by our friends as a miserable trick, disgraceful to those who propose it and insulting to us. It is said here that a scheme has been formed to deceive...our friends.... I am informed that one of your Senators has said within the last two days that "Douglas would be the candidate in Missouri by common consent until after the August election, but that he would be thrown overboard & Breckenridge would be taken up." The Secessionists & the administration are counting largely on this movement['s'] success.... It cannot be denied that...[this act of] treachery...discourages the timid. One blast from your trumpet will blow this scheme to atoms. The Secessionsts are becoming alarmed & desperate. They are dismayed by the coolness, energy and determination of your friends. The reaction in our favor has already commenced. A bold fight in the South will enable us to make great [gains] at the North.
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