Washington

Sunday Evening Dec. 13th 1835

My best of wives,

This is the only place I ever saw where a man can be always busy and yet do nothing. I have been striving to write you a letter ever since you left me and have never been able to get time to do so. As soon as I sit down to write some one calls and I am interrupted. Do not suppose that I have an increase in company this winter. The is the past. Forsyth and Dickerson have called, none of the other dignitaries altho' we have Mrs. Woodberry's invitation for the Evening of the 17th.

Our is comprised of Mr. & Mrs. Peyton, Mr. Wine of Va., Mr. Lawler of Alabama, Mr. Maury, Mr. Lea, Mr. Bunch and Mr. Standifer.

I understand my old friend forth largely about me to some of his . He cannot compare me, in his peaks, to any one, except his old friend Mr. Burr.

These things disturb me not. Several of the Anti Masons from Harrisburg have been corresponding with me about Masonry. I give my answer will be unsatisfactory. I tell them I am not and never was a Mason. That I must decline giving an opinion about the principles and obligations of Masons because I have not sufficient information to enable me to form one satisfactory to myself. I am told the Boats to Philadelphia are locked upon the ice. If Col. Bill has gone up and cannot return it will be a misfortune as his friends wish him here.

[Karns?] death will produce a stir in Illinois, the legislature is now in session and if it suited him I should like to see Governor Duncan succeed him but of that I suppose there is but little prospect.

I feel satisfied Lynch is the Governor of Miss. and that a large majority of the Legislation an anti-can. My name sake Dunlap whom you saw in .

Did any one suppose I was afraid to go and wait on the unless I had a guard, or Did they suppose I came here to quarrel with him personally or politically? My course has been as usual thus far, and I intend it shall be so, unless a departure by others from my principles separates them from me.

I want your society very much, yet think you ought to make a comfortable visit as to duration of My wife and children are my only sources of comfort. Others are all very well in their place; but you know I have no relish for society. How far I ought to confide in strangers or any family connection those only can tell who know how I have been and am treated by those for whom I have done most, but I complain not. While I have the warm and devoted attachment of my wife and children the world may take the rest, if it is profitable to do so.

Bill has been Polked out of the speaker chair because he would not sell out. There may be more sacrificed for the public before next June. We'll see what the public good requires, and so far as depends on me, it shall be done faithfully and fearlessly.

I will send for the card tomorrow. Tell Sam P. he must be a good boy, please his father and mother and by doing whatever they wish and we'll see to the Pony bye and bye.

Make yourself comfortable, and your husband can make out some here; if he freezes you will never be [censured?], except by the President and other friends who may sometimes need the Automaton's Vote.

My love to all and believe me.

As usual and ever yours

Hugh White

Mrs. Hugh Lawson White

Did you ever know me write so long a letter with nothing in it