But Ratcliffe did not speak.

The debate was unexpectedly postponed.
He joined Mrs.Lee in the gallery, however, sat with her as long as she would allow, and became still more confidential, telling her that he had received the expected reply from Grimes, of North Bend, and that it had enclosed a letter written by the President-elect to Mr.Grimes in regard to the advances made by Mr.Ratcliffe and his friends.
"It is not a handsome letter," said he; "indeed, a part of it is positively insulting.

I would like to read you one extract from it, and hear your opinion as to how it should be treated." Taking the letter from his pocket, he sought out the passage, and read as follows: "'I cannot lose sight, too, of the consideration that these three Senators' (he means Clinton, Krebs, and me) are popularly considered to be the most influential members of that so-called senatorial ring, which has acquired such general notoriety.

While I shall always receive their communications with all due respect, I must continue to exercise complete freedom of action in consulting other political advisers as well as these, and I must in all cases make it my first object to follow the wishes of the people, not always most truly represented by their nominal representatives.' What say you to that precious piece of presidential manners ?" "At least I like his courage," said Mrs.Lee.
"Courage is one thing; common sense is another.

This letter is a studied insult.