I should have written to you on my arrival at Nashville but concluded to defer it until it was ascertained whether the Treaty was ratified or rejected. The news of its ratification has arrived. Permit me to congratulate you on the successful and happy termination of the War. It is the crowning act of your Adminstration.2 You can look forward to its close (viz) to your Administration with much pleasure, with a proud consciousness of having discharged your duty, honestly, faithfully, and efficiently, with the high satisfaction of knowing that the character of the American-people for high toned Chivalry for cool, determined, bravery, and for all that is ennobling to human nature has advanced as much or more during your Administration than any preceding one. It may now with truth and justice be said that “we are indeed a great and wonderful people.” I should have remained in Mexico until the ratification of the Treaty, but it was thought very doubtful at what time it would be ratified and by many that it would be rejected. Immediately preceding my departure from Mexico I received letters advising me of the almost entire recovery of my Son and urging upon me that I should return immediately and travel with him: his Physicians and friends considering that travelling would be more beneficial to him than any thing else and would more speedily bring about his entire restoration. I applied to Genl Butler and obtained a furlough for 60 days. I suppose my services will not be needed Longer as commissary. If so should be glad to be employed in the West without going farther South than Memphis until fall. Inasmuch as the War is closed it is unnecessary for me to return to Mexico. I may conclude to meet the Regt between this and New Orleans. Will there be a use for me as Commissary any Longer. Should be glad to have some Office more profitable. So soon as my Sons health improves sufficiently will take him on North, and will call at Washington and close my accounts with the Government. We start to the mountains this week with a view to spend several weeks travelling. Hunting fishing &c

The selection of Cass & Butler as the candidates of the Democratic party has given universal satisfaction to the party in this Section of Country. I have not heard the first murmur. In fact I doubt whether any other ticket would have been recieved with half the inthusiam. Many of the Clay Whigs about Nashville are dissatisfied at the nomination of Genl Taylor and say they will not vote for him. Among them Doct. B. Mcnary, the most of them however will be whipt in by the Election. (Inter nos) Old Zac will give us employment enough particularly in Tennessee. I do hope the same Lethargy will not prevail here as did Last year. It was the fault of a few of the Leaders of the party that we were defeated. If our Electors will do their duty (they are capable) Tennessee I think will come out “right side up.” I have written more lengthily than I intended. I would transcribe the letter but have not time, you will therefore please excuse mistakes. Be obigling enough to present my best respects to Mrs. Polk and accept for yourself my best wishes too for your prosperity and happiness. . . .