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“OUR GLORIOUS UNION DEPEND[S] UPON . . . DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES”
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BUCHANAN, JAMES. Autograph Letter Signed, as Secretary of State, to William
W. Downing, declining to publically support a presidential candidate, but predicting that a
Democratic candidate would be elected. 1
1
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2
pages, 4to, with integral blank; complete sepa-
ration at horizontal fold, several short separations at vertical folds. (TFC)
Washington, 25 September 1848
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“
. . . No person in my position, except Mr. Clay, has ever addressed the people on the subject of a
pending Presidential election; & for this, he was severely censured.Whilst custom precludes me from
exercising this right, I am not the less anxious for the success of our candidates. Firmly convinced that
the prosperity & perpetuity of our glorious union depend upon the ascendancy of Democratic princi-
ples, I would take an active part in the canvass, if I were not Secretary of State. Our Candidates Cass,
Butler & Longstreth are worthy representations of these great principles & immensely deserve the sup-
port of their party. From present appearances, I entertain but little doubt of their election. . . .”