the discharge of the same.  “It was in my hearing that, to a representation that a certain important and influential functionary of the General Government in New York was using the power of his office adversely to Mr. Adams’s re-election, and that he ought to desist or be removed, Mr. Adams made this reply:—­’That gentleman is one of the best officers in the public service.  I have had occasion to know his diligence, exactness, and punctuality.  On public grounds, therefore, there is no cause of complaint against him, and upon no other will I remove him.  If I cannot administer the Government on these principles, I am content to go back to Quincy!’” [Footnote:  King’s Eulogy on John Quincy Adams.] Being in Baltimore on a certain occasion, among those introduced to him was a gentleman who accosted him thus—­“Mr. President, though I differ from you in opinion, I am glad to find you in good health.”  The President gave him a hearty shake of the hand, and replied,—­“Sir, in our happy and free country, we can differ in opinion without being enemies.”

These anecdotes illustrate the character and principles of Mr. Adams.  He knew nothing of the jealousy and bitterness which are gendered, in little minds and hearts, by disparities of sentiment.  Freedom of opinion he considered the birthright of every American citizen, and he would in no instance be the instrument of inflicting punishment upon the head of any man on account of its exercise.  High and pure in all his aims, he sought to reach them by means of a corresponding character.  If he could not succeed in the use of such instruments, he was content to meet defeat.  The rule by which he was governed in the discharge of his official duties, is beautifully expressed by the dramatic bard:—­

“Be just and fear not. 
Let all the ends thou aim’st at, be thy country’s,
Thy god’s, and TRUTH’S.  Then if thou fall’st, O Cromwell,
Thou fall’st a blessed martyr!”

In the truly republican position which Mr. Adams took in regard to appointments to office, and which, it is humiliating to believe, was one means of his subsequent defeat, he but faithfully imitated the example of “the Father of his country.”  When Gen. Washington occupied the presidential chair, application was made for the appointment of one of his old and intimate friends to a lucrative office.  At the same time a petition was received asking the same station for a most determined political opponent.  The latter received the appointment.  The friend was greatly disappointed and hurt in his feelings at his defeat.  Let the explanation of Washington be noted and ever remembered:—­“My friend,” said he, “I receive with cordial welcome.  He is welcome to my house, and welcome to my heart; but with all his good qualities he is not a man of business.  His opponent, with all his politics so hostile to me, is a man of business.  My private feelings have nothing to do in the case.  I am not George Washington, but President of the United States.  As George Washington, I would do this man any kindness in my power—­as President of the United States, I can do nothing.”