Literary cadet and Rhode-Island statesman. [volume] (Providence, R.I.) 1827-1829, 1827-05-02
PROVIDENCE. WEDNESDAY,, MAY2,

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conversation had between Colonel Richard M
johnson, and Mr.. William seaton, the junior
editor of the National .Intelligencer, the last
season, relative to the course the Intclligcncer
meant to pursue, with reference to the presi-
Dental election At the time in question, Mr..
Selton avowed, that Col. johnson pressed him
to come out in opposition to the administration,
and to influence him to do SC, urged, that as Mr..
Clay had taken the government printing from
he Intelligencer and transferred it to the Ma
tional Journal, the editors ought to oppose him
and the administration. To this Mr.. Seaton
replied, that thus far he had not witnessed any
act in the administration, that was not perfect
ly proper, and that he never would suffer pc
cuniary considerations to influence his political
conduct, and that whilst the conduct Of the
government met his views, he should yield to
it manly and fair support. The conversa-
ton elected somc warmth between the parties,
and Colonel johnson becoming excited, re-
marked with much apparent vehemence, ifthe
administration "act as pure as the angels that
we put it down."
This conversation and menace, Mr.. Scaton
mentioned to some Of his friends, but never in
tended to publish it; but the Editor Of the Uni
ted States Telegraph happened to get hold Of
it, and for reasons best known to himself, gave
it to the world. When the statement reached
the observation Of Colonel Johnson, he denied
its accuracy, and addressed letter to the Edi-
tor of the Telegraph, in which he peremptoriy
denied ever having uttered the language ascrib-
ed to him, and declared, that he went no fur
ther than to say to Mr.. Seaton, that, as he be-
lieved his constituents were opposed to the
administration, and in favor ofGencral Jack
son, he should consider himself bound to vote
for the Tcnnessean candidate at the polls,
and to oppose the administration, though its
acts were as pure as the angels in Heaven
To this letter Mr.. Seaton has made long re-
ply, in which he insists on the accuracy of his
statements, and repeats the whole Of the con-
versation had at the time in alluson, and thus,
for the moment, the matter rests. We are sor-
ry to see these things banded about; and we
agree with Colonel Johnson, that, whatever
nc might have said to Mr.. Seaton, if it was ut
tered in confidence, ought not to have been
revealed to any one; and that the revelation of
confidential communications reflects no credit
upon those who make them. Colonel john
son does not attempt to say that he is not op-
posed to the administration; but avows that he
will not oppose it merely fer the sake Of oppo-
sing; and il seems that nothing but the very
strong and profane language ascribed to him
by MI. Seaton, has called him before the pub
lie, on this occasion.
Colonel Johnson has, for the last twenty
years, been before the public, as All able and
accomplished statesman, and a brave and
successful soldier. During the late war, he
more than once grappled with the foe, and at
Moravian Town fought one Of the most dcspe-
rare and sanguinary battles that distinguished
our armies, and was dangerously wounded in
several parts Of his body. At this battle, he
killed the celebrated Indian Chief Tecumseh,
and led our arms TO victory. He has occupied
q seat in the Senate and House Of Representa-
tives Of the United States, at different periods,
and has always been looked upon as man Of
influence, and strict political integrity.
For many yearshe has endeavored to estab-
isk law for the abolishment ofImprisonment
for Debt; and as soon as he reaches Washing
ton, he gives notice, that on given day, he
shall introduce bill for that purpose. He is
n warm friend to the great causes Of Litera-
ture and Religion, and to advance both, has
probably done more than any man in the coun-
try. He is an efficient and active patron Of
several literary institutions, and one of the
founders Of Columbian College. During the
recess Of Congress, he is actively engaged in
the service Of his country, as a Contractor for
tho Western Out-Posts; and in all his move
,nents, he is distinguished for his activity and
pnnctuaty. Under his auspices the famous
yellow Stone Expedition was commenced; and
though il did not terminate so successfully as
could have been wished, il redounded to the
decided advantage Of the country. We are
sorry to find him opposed to the administration,
but are at the same time gratifed to know,
that he is not one Of those unprincipled oppos-
crs, who would oppose it merely for the sake
Of opposition. During the last session of Con-
gress, he generally voted with the administra-
ton members, though he is confessedly oppos-
ed TO the men, that compose the present Cabi-