“. . . Should I (being quite certain that I am out for good, inasmuch as I see no possible seat and have received from all the leaders, except Grey, regular letters of dismissal, thanking me for past services, &c.) should I take parliamentary practice or not? My first intention was quite clear agt. it; for, tho’ I don’t affect to say a large bit of money would be disagreeable, yet gold may be bought too dear, and I don’t like to lower myself, either in Parlt. or the country, to Adam’s level. I never hesitated on this till I began to get angry with the leading Whigs for their cool way of taking leave [of me]; as much as to say—it is out of the question our ever bringing you in again. This, and the knowledge of others, as Plume [?], &c., being brought in, has rather raised my spleen, and given me an inclination to go into that line and make enough to buy a seat (with what I can afford to add, viz. £2000 or £2500), and then come in and enjoy the purest of all pleasures—at once do what I most approve of in politics and give the black ones an infernal licking every other night! Now really this is my only inducement, and I am half doubting about it. My judgment tells me not to go into Committee practice; but what do you think? I own I shall be pleased if you are as clear agt. it as I feel; but pray give your opinion with dispatch. Talk it over with Ward if you see him. . . .”
