I received a letter from William Voorhies, in which he mentioned that he had held a conversation with you on the propriety of my accompanying him to California, and concluded by insisting on my joining him. I am entirely at Sea with regard to my future movements, I am trammelled by my Wife’s Northern prejudice against a Southern home. I feel the necessity of moulding some bold design by which prosperity and possibly fame may be the reward, but in all candor, I know not where to begin. Can you suggest a beginning point? If you think it best for me to “pull up stakes” and go immediately to California, please favor me with the considerations that forms the opinion. I know you would not advise me without proper reflection, and I entertain great defference for your judgement.

The prospect in Tennessee for our cause is growing more satisfactory—from all I can learn—from all the indications—I am decidedly of the opinion that we will carry the State. In forming this opinion, I am entirely controlled by the evidences, suggested by the general tone of the public mind. Our friends are confident, the reasonable Whigs admit a doubt. We have a preponderance of the active talent in the field, and if the State is not carried in the present contest we never can carry it. I have made some speeches in this County, and the best sign is, that the Whigs seem disposed to reason, not in the spirit of their accustomed violence, but with a decent forbearance. The Centeral Committee is active—nearly every County in the State is thoroughly organized. Every effort is being directed to bring out our full vote.

Coe is with Jones and I learn defending your Administration with warmth. I will attend their meeting at Mt. Pleasant on the 23d, when I will be better able to give you a correct idea of his manner of debate. He may have reasoned himself into a proper estimate of his folly in bracing himself against you, however after hearing him I can better judge.

Write me without delay, for if a movement toward California has to be made, I must be preparing to make the move. My Wife sends her respects to Mrs Polk. Mother is very well!