Vidal Gore — Eighteen Seventy [1414]

I HAVE FINALLY SENT off my first piece for the Herald, with a good deal of help from Nordhoff, who continues to be of a perfect kindness. The President has also made a considerable contribution to my debut as a Washington observer, for yesterday his personal deposition to the court at St. Louis was published. Grant’s long, rambling defence of Babcock is regarded here with the deepest embarrassment by the Administration and with absolute joy by the opposition. At inordinate length the President—presumably under oath—says over and over again, “I always had great confidence in his integrity … I have never learned anything that would shake that confidence; of course I know of this trial that is progressing.” — Vidal Gore, Eighteen Seventy, 1414

Note

The opening line effectively establishes a personal connection to the narrative and the historical context, showcasing the author’s voice and setting the tone for the observations to come. The rhythm of the sentence, combined with the mix of personal and political commentary, draws readers into the writer’s perspective and experience in Washington.