Green-Mountain freeman. [volume] (Montpelier, Vt.) 1844-1884, 1856-02-21
Fun Alive!

Considerable controversy has passed among
the leading papers in regard to letter that
Gen. Houston wrote to Pierce in relation to
forming his Cabinet. The Evening Post
published the letter on the 18th. 1t is chiefly
confined to advice touching the formation of
of the Cabinet of the incoming administra-
ton, but the chief point OF the letter is em-
braced in the closing paragraphs, which are
as follows:
" So far as | hear suggestions, conclude
that the nation expect an able and faithful ad,
ministration of the affairs of the government
by you, and that strict adherence to the
principles laid down by Gen. Jackson will
be the landmarks by which the policy of the
nation will be managed, by your recomenda-
ton and under your Guidance.
So far as my individual opinions and feel
ings are concerned can desire nothing more,
and hope for nothing less. l will rejoice to
assist, so far as my situation III the Senate
will enable me, an honest, patriotic President
in quelling the rank, abuses which have grown
up since General Jackson left Office. 1t will
prove herculean task--corruption infests the
very atmosphere of the government. But
few places are now sought by the tribes who
hunt the spoils of office, without view to
somo speculation or Illicit gains. Scarceya
contract is made with public functionaries
without covering some fraud, and enormous
claims are assisted and carried against the
government by infamous agencies, employing
fraud and bribery as the means. | declare
to you, sir that [ have found from some ex-
aminatiots | have been called upon to make,
a disease at the heart of the government which,
unless arrested, must eventually undermine
the constitution, and surrender the govern
ment to spectators,
In Gen. Jackson's time, the contest grew
out Of the attempt of the Bank Of the United
States to engraft corrupt moneyed influence
on the government, to gain partial, control
over its finances Now the government in all
its branches is more corrupt than the Bank
ever was, and is rapidly vcrging to that job
bling system which makes the English govern
ment curse to the unhappy millions that
live under it.
The commanding vote which brought you
to the Presidency, in such times, marks the
confidence of yonr countrymen in the ability
and fearless probity on which they rely for
q reversal of this downward tendency
A cabinet of irreprochable integrity (if in
tellgent and Industrious, is all you want in
such work the rest depends upon yourself
Relying with full faith on an honest course
you may boldly press on to the extirpation Of
abuses, and set at defiance debating leaders
of factions or sections. The people will sus
tain you. The issue is whether honesty OF
knavery shall triumph in the government
In such struggle the great point is absolute
confidence, on the part Of the nation, in the
purity of the men called to high trust in thu
!, administration. That you may be fortunate
in selecting such associates, and in efectins
all the good your country anticipates, is my
sincere desire.
General, I have submitted these as some O
my reflections in all frankness and good wish
es for you, personally aud politically,
am truly your most ob't serv't,
Q SAMUEL HoUsToN.