Continued cold and raw weather. T. K. Davis came in and sat for an hour talking of his various conferences with individuals. I am satisfied that the whole party which goes under the name of conservative is waiting to see whether Mr. Van Buren will not be forced from his present position and obliged to take theirs. I advised Davis of the opinions held by my father, and stated very freely my own. As at present advised, I saw nothing to authorize me to vary from my preceding course.

We then walked to the Capitol, calling on the way to see Govr. Dickerson and Mr. Legaré. We found the latter at home and had a pleasant visit. He is a dashing talker, with many new ideas, but rather brilliant than solid.1 Out of an allusion to slavery made by Davis there 39grew a discussion between us which lasted until we reached the Capitol.

They were engaged in the ceremonial of the funeral of the member.2 After it was over, we returned and I dropped in to see Indian Gallery of Mr. Catlin. This is a collection of Portraits of various American Indians of different tribes, and pictures illustrative of their principal ceremonies as well as landscapes. There are also various articles of dress &c. which Catlin has collected in his personal travels. The whole is curious as a specimen of one great branch of man, but Indians after all are but Indians. They represent the first stages of civilization which are by no means, properly considered, the most interesting.3

Home to dinner. Evening, a small party by invitation of Mrs. Gilpin. Principally members of the Administration party and the Corps diplomatique. Very dull. Home, and to bed quite fatigued.