Record Data
Correspondence of Theodore Parker. Vol. 1, ed. John Weiss. New York: De Capo Press, 1970, p. 218.
Transcription
TO MR. PARKER.
March 1, 1857
I have sat in my seat only on one day. After a short time the torment to my system became great, and the cloud began to gather over my brain. I tottered out, and took to my bed. I long to speak, but I cannot. Sorrowfully I resign myself to my condition.
Had I an internal consciousness of strength, I might brave these professional menaces; but my own daily experience, while it satisfies me of my improvement, shows the subtle and complete overthrow of my powers organically, from which I can hope to recover only most slowly, per intervalla ac spiramenta temporis.
What I can say must stand adjourned to another day. Nobody can regret this so much as myself, and my unhappiness will be increased if I have not your sympathy in this delay.
I may die; but if I live, a word shall be spoken in the Senate which shall tear Slavery open from its chops to its heel- from its bully chops down to its coward heel!
Till then, patience.
Ever yours.