CONCORD, Oct. 9, 1880.MR. I. PANIN, Secretary, &c.

DEAR SIR : - I am much honored by the invitation which you have sent me to address the students of the University at Cambridge, on political matters, at the meeting of the Harvard Union; and am very sorry that it will not be in my power to accept it. I am always glad to find an interest in public questions among the students, and to have them consider thoughtfully their duties as citizens of free States. And while I think every man should take a side in politics, he need not, and ought not, to be so much of a partisan as to forbear to denounce and disavow unworthy methods and corrupt men, wherever found.

In making a choice between the political parties which now divide the country, my advice to a young man would be, to ally himself with that which seemed to his best judgment the party of hope and progress, - the party of the future. While neither is free from disreputable elements, or can escape from adverse criticism, he should look to see which has for the great body of its supporters the greater number of those who believe in equality before the law, popular education, good morals, and social progress. Having made his choice, he will have an ample field for constant activity and watchfulness in trying to keep his party up to its own standard of professions and purposes.

Very respectfully and truly yours,

E. R. HOAR.