[TO MR. MASON.]

" WASHINGTON, January 1, 1835.

"DEAR SIR: Whether it is or will be best for Massachusetts to act at
all on the subject of a nomination, is a question which I leave entirely to
the judgment of others. I cannot say that I have any personal wishes
about it, either one way or the other. A nomination by Massachusetts
would certainly be one of the highest proofs of regard which any citizen
can receive. As such, I should most undoubtedly esteem it. But, in the
present condition of things, and with the prospects which are before us, a
nomination is a questionable thing to one who is more desirous of preserv-
ing what little reputation he has than anxious to grasp at further distinc-
tion. I have made up my mind, however, to be passive, and shall be
satisfied with any result.

"But I have a clear opinion on one point; and, as I promised you to
communicate my sentiments freely, I will state that opinion frankly. It
is, that if Massachusetts is to act at all, the time has come. I think the pro-
ceeding, if one is to be had, should be one of the first objects of attention
when the Legislature assembles. In Ohio, Mr. McLean is already nomi-
nated, I presume, according to late accounts. Many Whigs, who do not
prefer him, fall into the measure (in Ohio) simply because they have no
other choice. It is expected, or at least hoped, that New Jersey will sec-
ond this nomination. Movements are in preparation in other places; but,
as far as I know, nothing is yet proposed anywhere in which there could
be a general union, or in which Massachusetts would be likely to agree.

"If a resolution to make a movement in Massachusetts should be
adopted, not only should the thing itself be done as soon as practicable,
but in the mean time notice of the intention should be given to friends in
the neighboring States, and especially in New York, that they may pre-
pare for it. Let us know here the moment any thing is determined on.

"It looks at present as if Mr. Clay would not do or say any thing. He
declares himself in nobody's way; but still it is evident that his particular
friends are not prepared to act heartily and efficiently for anybody else.

"Be sure to burn this letter, and assure yourself also that I write such
letters to nobody else.

"Yours truly,
"D. WEBSTER.

"The committee of the House of Representatives will not report in
conformity to the recommendation of the message on French affairs.
Probably no report will be made, till further intelligence from France."

[FROM MR. ABBOTT LAWRENCE.]

" BOSTON, January 5, 1835.

"MY DEAR SIR: I wish I could see you for ten minutes, that I might
say to you many things that cannot be written. Yet, I cannot omit the

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