Diary of Charles Francis Adams, volume 8

Monday. 14th.

Wednesday 16th.

Tuesday 15th. CFA

1838-05-15

Tuesday 15th. CFA
Tuesday 15th.

The weather is waxing warmer. I went out early this morning and made a call upon Dr. Thomas returning a visit from him, and also one from A. H. Everett who is still up in his room, although nearly recovered. Much conversation with him upon the state of politics here and in Boston. I stated very frankly my difficulties as I always do and expressed my unwillingness to put confidence in an Administration which drew it’s support from a sacrifice of the North to the sectional pride of Mr. Calhoun. He told me that Mr. Van Buren had written me a note acknowledging my Pamphlets which note I never received. Also that Mr. Foster wrote to him that the Advocate was to be abandoned, and complained of the doubtful course of the Government. What a turbid state.

My difficulties are of a peculiar character. I want confidence in every thing and every body, and feel almost as hostile to one party on principle as I do to the other from feeling. I trust in an overruling providence both for the country and for myself.

Went to the Capitol. Mr. R. Biddle was speaking and I very soon became interested in his argument. Indeed it is the only one which I have heard which is of a high character. He took up in turn each of the Administration party and certainly exposed them in a manner which could not be exceeded. There was an elegance of style and a facility of imagery which is uncommon where mere talent seems to be almost universal.

After he ceased Mr. Bell took up the debate and as I think little of 44him, I returned home. T. K. Davis really went this morning and I felt his absence. Mr. Everett says he Davis has been very well received and made a favorable impression. So far, so good.

After dinner, again to the play. Mrs. Smith taking the place of my Mother whose visit to the theatre last evening proved too much for her, and she has been unwell ever since. The Barber of Seville. Caradori as Rosina, Walton as Figaro, Pearson as Almaviva and Brough as Basil. The piece quite tolerably sustained. Pearson did well in parts but he spoilt the Quintette at the close of the second act. The trio “Zitti, zitti,” very well indeed. Caradori also sung Una voce, very well. On the whole the Barber carried off the piece most effectively. Home late.