"My own intentions regarding Texas are now of record." "Precisely," said Mr.Polk.

"Now, is it wise to make a definite answer in that matter yet?
Would it not be better to defer action until later--until after, I may say--" "Until after you know what your own chances will be, Jim ?" asked Mr.
Calhoun, smiling grimly.
"Why, that is it, John, precisely, that is it exactly! Now, I don't know what you think of my chances in the convention, but I may say that a very large branch of the western Democracy is favoring me for the nomination." Mr.Polk pursed a short upper lip and looked monstrous grave.

His extreme morality and his extreme dignity made his chief stock in trade.

Different from his master, Old Hickory, he was really at heart the most aristocratic of Democrats, and like many another so-called leader, most of his love for the people really was love of himself.
"Yes, I know that some very strange things happen in politics," commented Calhoun, smiling.
"But, God bless me! you don't call it out of the way for me to seek the nomination?
_Some_ one must be president! Why not myself?
Now, I ask your support." "My support is worth little, Jim," said my chief.

"But have you earned it?
You have never consulted my welfare, nor has Jackson.