The Writings of Carl Schurz/From Moses Coit Tyler, August 30th, 1887
FROM MOSES COIT TYLER
Ithaca, Aug. 30, 1887.
I read your two volumes on Henry Clay just as soon as they appeared, and have been intending ever since to tell you of my gratitude for the instruction and delight which they gave me. It happened at the time that I was confined to my room by a savage attack of rheumatism; and it is literally true that while reading the book I was able to forget the pains which my enemy was inflicting upon me.
I congratulate you sincerely and heartily on the happiness of finishing so great and noble a piece of work. I don't know a more wholesome book on American political history. I see in it not only the result of great and patient research applied for that immediate purpose, but the fruits of a lifetime of study, thought and practical experience in the affairs of state. Your book will for many a year instruct the student of our history and be an inspiration and a pure and elevating monitor to multitudes of young men. I should like to express, also, my sense of satisfaction in the delicacy, power and charm of its literary style.
I have long thought that if an opportunity should occur, I should be glad to say a word to you respecting your career in American politics. I first heard of you distinctly in 1860—when I was but recently from college. I have observed closely your sayings and doings since then. I have myself been entirely free in my political relations, long voting with the Republican party from my convictions as an anti-slavery man. I find, on looking back over the whole period, that in every vicissitude and combination of political parties, I have invariably been in agreement with you. This of course is of little account to you; but to me it gives an interest and a confidence in your political character and judgment, which I can now feel for no other American statesman living.
I really fear that this may seem a little too blunt and crude in its expression. I write in some haste, but very sincerely. What you say of Gallatin's place in American political history will yet be applied to one whom I have often compared to Gallatin.