Auburn Oct 30.
There is nothing new – except that the uncertain phase the Altr.e
matter wears. I scarcely dare commit to this uncertain mode of
communication the history of that matter. Yet undecided what ought
finally to be done S. prepared his answer – wrote to B. to meet him
at Albany for consultation, and refrained thither. There he consulted as
also in N.Y. with various discreet friends. B did not come or write.
The letter S. had prepared was conscientious and there was abundant
assurance that it would be satisfactory to cool and thinking men on
both sides of that vexed question. Returning home – he stopped at Utica
and there found in the hands of the printer L B's answer. It was quite
obvious on the first perusal that this would throw off of the
friends of the Whig cause in N.Y. and as certain that after so much
concession on his part S's would by contrast be far less satisfactory
to the interrogators. No course remained but to throw S.'s views before
the public as soon as might be. They reached the city and ob-
tained a publication simultaneously with B.'s.
The result of this miserable blundering was not different from
what was to be anticipated. The A–s delighted with B's letter
and dissatisfied with S–s. The Antis outraged by B's and satisfied
with S's. The Ultras L. Tappan &c in N.Y. The Friend of Man in
Utica &c have taken measures to procure vigorous support of N'se–de-
nouncing S. But our friends are of opinion that no serious conse-
quences will follow. Here not one vote will be affected–and
the same assurances are given in other quarters.
The letters recd from N. York and Albany are still cheering
the Bamber business, is accruing much spirit.
How for this town is a test I know not but it will give S. about
400 maj. In 1834 it gave him 101. Our friends are confident.

Benjamin J. Seward Esq.
Westfield
Chautauque Co.
AUBURN N.Y.
30 OCT
hOctober 30. 1838