John Calhoun letter to John Ewing Calhoun, 30 January 1824

Washington 30th Jan'y 1824

DEAR SIR, We deeply deplore your loss, and sympathize with you in your affliction. The loss is irreparable, and time alone can apply an assuaging hand. He is the only healer of such deep afflictions. There is no doubt but that a change of scene would tend to alleviate the distress of Mrs Calhoun, and I hope that you will be able to carry your intention of paying us a visit into effect. We all would be much gratified to see you. Our seperation has been long. I do hope that it may be in my power to make a visit with my family to Carolina next summer. Col Pickens has just left us for the South, taking Charleston in his route. You will probably see him, and will learn from him every thing in relation to Washington, which will render it unnecessary for me to give details.

The statement, as to a coalition between Adams and myself is "one of the devices of the enemy". It is a report wholly destitute of fact to support it; and is not believed by those who circulate it. I stand wholly on my own basis, and shall continue so to stand. The prospect is good. The election will be left as it ought to be to the people. They alone have the right. Our friends oppose a caucus not through a fear of Weakness in Congress, but through principle. A Congressional caucus will certainly fail.

Floride and your mother desire their love to you and Mrs Calhoun.