CHAPTER XXVIII
GOVERNOR OF OHIO -- SECOND TERM, FIRST YEAR -- 1870
COLUMBUS, January 20, 1870.
DEAR SIR:--I am collecting in the Executive Office portraits
of the governors of the State. The portraits of sixteen
are already on the walls of the office. Those obtained are mainly
the pioneer governors--Tiffin, Meigs, Worthington, Morrow,
Trimble, McArthur, and others. Some have been presented by
relatives and others bought by me with my contingent fund.
I am desirous to obtain your portrait. If you have one taken
about the time you were governor, a copy of that would be
preferred. In some cases originals have been sent by express
and copied here and then returned. But, of course, your wishes
will control.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE WILSON SHANNON,
Topeka, Kansas.
COLUMBUS, January 31, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--I have been in correspondence with Jay
Cooke about his new town of Duluth at the head of Lake Su-
perior. It will be the great town of that region. The Northern
Pacific Railroad will begin work there next spring, and finish
about three hundred miles as fast as work can do it. A railroad
to St. Paul will be completed by the Fourth of July. It will then
be the lake port of two-thirds of Minnesota. I want to put in
five or six thousand dollars if I can raise it in the next sixty or
ninety days. It will double by next fall, and may do a great deal
better than that. I can buy on the most favorable terms allowed
to anybody, and have my own separate property without mixing
up with the company. I don't want you to bother about it at all,
(84)
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 85
but if you see where notes secured by mortgage can raise the
money, let me know.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
COLUMBUS, January 31, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--The present incumbent of the librarianship
is a faithful, painstaking old gentleman with a family of invalid
girls dependent on him. His courtesy and evident anxiety to
accommodate all who visit the library have secured him the en-
dorsement of almost all who are in the habit of using the books;
and under the circumstances I cannot remove him. Old asso-
ciations, your fitness, and claims draw me the other way; but
you see, etc., etc.
Very sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
DR. GEORGE R. MORTON,
North Bass, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, January 31, 1870.
DEAR SIR:--I am in receipt of your note of the 29th enclos-
ing a memorial from the Historical Society of Ohio in relation
to the purchase by the State of the St. Clair papers. I will
transmit the memorial to the Legislature with a favorable rec-
ommendation. There is a fair prospect of the success of the
measure.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
P. S. -- Personal communications to each of your senators and
members of the House will be of service.
MR. JULIUS DEXTER,
Cincinnati, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, January 31, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR: -- Having secured portraits of almost all of the
early governors, I began a few weeks ago a correspondence
with a view to obtaining the portraits of those who are now
86 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
living. I found there would be no trouble in getting yours. Mr.
L'Hommedieu undertook it, and with your friends Jay Cooke,
Carson, Yeatman, Hoadly, and Spooner, proposed to present the
State as fine a one as they could get. Last Friday I received
by express from Chicago a capital picture, three-fourths length
--the work of W. Cogswell,--which is perfectly satisfactory
to all of your friends who have seen it. It is given to the State
by Jay Cooke, and is the finest of the seventeen portraits in the
office.
I write this note with a double object: First, to let you know
what your friends intended to do, and what one of them has
done; second, to learn from you where the original picture was
taken -- assuming this to be a copy -- and by whom.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE S. P. CHASE,
CHIEF JUSTICE, Washington.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, February 3, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--Your favor of the 31st ult. came duly to
hand. I have no information as to the chances of an Insurance
Act beyond what the general public possesses. If the appoint-
ment you refer to is to be made by me the considerations you
suggest will have, as you suppose, due weight. When such
qualifications are found, I need hardly say, it will be no
objection if the person having them is also a personal friend. Of
course, it would be premature to venture on a committal until
all sides are heard.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
MR. A. M. SEARLE,
Cleveland, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, February 4, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--The Soldiers' Orphans' Bill has been under
consideration one day in the Senate. No serious opposition has
been developed and decided support was given in quarters not
heretofore relied on. I entertain no doubt of its passage within
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 87
a week or ten days through the Senate, and in the House its
passage is only a question of time. I anticipate the necessity of
naming a board about the last of this month.
Your views of General Keifer and General Barnett are also
mine. I think I gave you my notions also of Generals Buckland
and Coates. Think over the good loyal Democrats for one
name. A well known party man, loyal during the war but in the
Democratic party, if he can be found, is preferred if friendly
to the institution.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
[Unidentified.]
COLUMBUS, OHIO, February 4, 1870.
DEAR JUDGE:--I am in receipt of your letter of yesterday
in relation to the appointment of members of the board of
trustees of the Ohio Medical College. Unless there is some rea-
son for delay, the nominations to fill vacancies occurring January
1, 1871, should be sent to the Senate at the present session. In
the absence of reason for a change, the present members should
be reappointed, and the vacancy filled by a person those actively
interested in the institution will name, or at least approve. I
take it all this is what you wish. If you have other views as to
any member, I will thank you to let me know. You need have
no hesitation on account of your own name being in the list.
You will be reappointed in any event, so that the only open
question is as to your associates. I agree fully with your views
about Drs. Wright and Dodge, and Messrs. Ball and Dutton.
Your address is good reading. The short paragraph about the
waste of talent and genius in politics is of more account than
perhaps you thought. Why not make it the theme of an address?
The idea is often seen in sermons or the talk of non-politicians,
but with your knowledge of the inside of politics, and with your
ability justly to estimate a politician's value, you could make
much of it.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE WILLIAM DICKSON,
Cincinnati, Ohio.
88 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
COLUMBUS, OHIO, February 5, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR: -- I am in receipt of your favor of the 4th as to
the St. Clair papers. I hope there is a fair prospect of the
passage of an act authorizing their purchase, but I am not san-
guine. Of course, nobody would think of the State buying them
for the Cincinnati or any other local society. If bought they will
be deposited in the State Library. I agree with you that your
title by discovery, if they are to be given away, would give you a
claim to be considered.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
A. T. GOODMAN, ESQ.,
Cleveland, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, February 5, 1870.
DEAR SIR: -- I am in receipt of your favor of the 3d in re-
lation [to] codifying the laws of Ohio. It is undoubtedly a
great inconvenience and a serious evil that our laws are so
voluminous. I quite agree with you that a revision as often as
once in ten years is necessary. But I fear we shall never see
our statutes again in a single volume of proper size for common
use. If we can have them in two or three volumes with one
index, it perhaps is doing as much as can be expected.
Very respectfully,
R. B. HAYES.
JESSE HAWLEY, ESQ.,
Salem, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, February 16, 1870.
DEAR LEE:--Your note came during my absence north. A
note to Delano from me, if my friends at Cincinnati are well
informed, would do you more harm than good. But I send you
a note, not addressed, in general but strong terms. I do not
feel like interfering with Colonel Powell, and do not wish the
note used to procure his removal. But I doubt the wisdom of
your using it at all with Mr. Delano.
Sincerely,
CAPTAIN A. E. LEE, R. B. HAYES.
Delaware, Ohio.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 89
COLUMBUS, OHIO, February 16, 1870.
Captain A. E. Lee, of Delaware, Ohio, is a gentleman whose
ability, integrity, and business experience fit him to fill with
acceptance and creditably to the Administration any revenue
office he is likely to desire. He has a capital record as a soldier,
is a Republican whose soundness and effective work are beyond
commendation. No worthier appointment could be made.
R. B. HAYES.
CINCINNATI, February 20, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:-- I came here to meet the Kentucky Legislature
and spoke to them from the same platform with Mr. Pendleton.
All satisfactory.
Just before coming Jay Cooke advised me to take my choice
immediately of certain Duluth property which he could get me.
I dispatched him that I would take one hundred and sixty acres
for eight thousand dollars. I know nothing of terms of payment,
but am satisfied that it is a great bargain. No doubt the terms
of payment can be complied with somehow. It is one and one-
fourth miles from the dock and depot and next to the town
property.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
COLUMBUS, February 22, 1870.
DEAR SIR: --I am in receipt of your "History of the Guilford
Branch of the Dickeman Family," and am greatly obliged to
you for it. My father came to Ohio in 1817, thus separating
from all his New England relatives, and died before my birth,
so that I have not had an opportunity to learn much of his
family. A Hayes record was published by George W. Noyes,
of the Oneida Community in the State of New York, but the
fullest account of my grandmother's family I have ever seen is
in your pamphlet. There is an impression in the family that
Grandmother Chloe Smith Hayes was a very superior woman--
possessing real genius. The Mead family, all having talent as
artists, trace this quality to grandmother. The most distinguished
90 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
member of the family is Larkin G. Mead, a sculptor of wide
reputation. You may have heard of him as the boy who made
the snow statue in Brattleboro twelve or fifteen years ago. He
is the sculptor and architect of the great Lincoln Monument at
Springfield, Illinois, and his studio in Florence probably receives
as many orders as that of any artist.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
[Unidentified.]
COLUMBUS, March 1, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:-- I handed your note to John Deshler this
morning with your old question, "Can you read fine hand?" He
said, "Oh yes, I can read this, and I shall be very happy to do it
both for your sake and Mr. Birchard's. My father always said
Sardis Birchard is one of my best friends and one of the best
men in Ohio. I always told him he would get married if it wasn't
for that fine breastpin." So that matter is settled.
All well. Nothing new.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, March 1, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR: -- I think as you do on the librarian question,
and unless something not anticipated turns up before the appoint-
ment is made, my action will be as you advise. I also agree with
you perfectly on the spoils doctrine. This you would know if you
had read my last inaugural. I am glad you do not bore yourself
with such reading generally, but you are in for it now, as I shall
send you a copy. I too mean to be out of politics. The ratifica-
tion of the Fifteenth Amendment gives me the boon of equality
before the law, terminates my enlistment, and discharges me
cured.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE J. IRVING BROOKS,
Salem, Ohio.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 91
March 6, 1870.-- I have borrowed of Uncle, and on his name,
of John G. Deshler eight thousand dollars and invested it in
one hundred and sixty acres of land one and one-fourth miles
from the dock at Duluth, Minnesota. I expect Duluth to grow
rapidly and that this property will increase in value about one
hundred per cent for the next three or five years. The cash
and deeds pass this week. General George B. Sargent, care J.
Cooke and Co., New York, is my correspondent's address.
I have been digging into Savage and other books on genealogy
during the last week. I trace my lineage up almost to the May-
flower but not yet into it. I have only run back on the line of
my father's side of the house, and the important family of the
Smiths is left out!! Almost one-half of the stock! To be
exact, it leaves out exactly one-fourth of the stock, as I find nearly
one-half of the Smiths. Now, the new idea I get by this study is,
how futile it is to trace one's descent from a distinguished name
in the past. Two hundred and thirty or forty years ago my
ancestors were from thirty to a hundred different persons. The
Hayes or the Rutherford of 1625 was only one out of forty or
more who are equally my ancestors. What does it signify that
John Russell was able and pious in 1640? I am but one part
in forty to sixty of his blood. We attach more importance to the
deeds of ancestors of our own names. But this is a mere figment
of the imagination. I am just as much a Trowbridge, referring
now to the Thomas Trowbridge who founded the family in New
Haven in 1640, as any of those now living there who bear his
name. The blood, the physical, mental, or moral qualities which
distinguished an early "father," do not follow the name; do not
accompany it.
I have always thought of myself as Scotch, but of the fathers
of my family who came to America about thirty were English
and two only, Hayes and Rutherford, were of Scotch descent.
This, on my father's side. On my mother's side, the whole
thirty-two were probably all of other peoples beside the Scotch.
Again, I have been proud of my descent (not very of course,
only a trifle so,) from the famous Rutherfords; but it is plain
that the brains, energy, and character possessed by my grand-
father's children and grandchildren-- by the children and grand-
92 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
children of Rutherford Hayes--are mainly derived from our
plain ancestor, whom [who] Uncle Sardis says was the homeliest
woman he ever saw (!), Grandmother Chloe Smith.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, March 11, 1870.
MY DEAR BOY:-- You ask me about the college at Hudson
[Western Reserve]. It has a good history--has turned out
many able and successful men. I hope it will grow into a great
institution. I have no doubt you can get there all that is essential
which any college can give. You will hear no objection from me
if it is finally thought best by you and Uncle to go to that college.
But I prefer you would not finally decide about it until I have
a talk with both of you. You can, if you wish, go on and study
as if that would be your college. In a few weeks I will see
you and Uncle and consider all sides. The main thing is the
student--his industry, his habits, character, and talents. The
college affords him merely the tools.
Affectionately,
R. B. HAYES.
BIRCHARD HAYES.
COLUMBUS, March 12, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--My wife is a granddaughter of Isaac Cook,
son of Colonel Isaac Cook of Wallingford, Connecticut. I have
just learned that James Carrington married a sister of Colonel
Cook, and that he (Carrington) compiled a pedigree of the
Cooks which passed into the hands of his son, James Carring-
ton, formerly of Astoria, Long Island. I write to ascertain
if you have any information of that pedigree, or of the names
or residences of the earlier Cooks. I will be particularly obliged
if you can set me on the right track.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
GENERAL H. B. CARRINGTON.
COLUMBUS, March 17, 1870.
MY DEAR GENERAL:--I enclose you a letter and newspaper
slip just received from Rogers which will enlighten you on
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 93
Duluth prospects. Please return them. I am particularly
anxious to have Rogers interested in this property, as he is the
discoverer. Can you give him a third interest in your lots,
he to pay his share and interest at next payment? I propose to
get a joint interest with him on some such terms. He can be
very useful in protecting us from loss by sales, etc., etc., at
proper times.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
GENERAL M. F. FORCE,
Cincinnati, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, March 20, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--. . . I am rather busy now. The ap-
pointment of Agricultural College Trustees excites some interest.
I think I shall get a good board. In your district I must appoint
a Democrat, and have pretty much determined to appoint War-
ren P. Nobles, of Seneca. I have offered Pendleton a place,
and if he accepts will give the other to A. P. Perry.
I am rather gratified by the turn things are taking. I regard
the Orphans' Bill as safe in some form.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
Private and Confidential.
COLUMBUS, March 29, 1870.
DEAR HOLLISTER:--I am in receipt of yours of the 28th. I
like General B--ever so much and have expected, and still
expect, to reappoint him. But why does he not act -- investigate
-- publish the result, etc., etc. ? All sorts of ill rumors are afloat
-- intemperance, etc., etc. The trustees are bound to do or say
something. Silence longer is confession. What does B- think
and say? What will he do?
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
P. S. -- Return this letter to me with your reply. -- H.
HONORABLE GEORGE B. HOLLISTER.
94 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
April 4, 1870.--Went to Cincinnati to the election. The
colored people vote for the first time under the Fifteenth Amend-
ment. They are very happy and the people generally approve.
They vote Republican almost solid.
Joe Root and Judge Tilden both say that after Governor
Vance supported the nomination of General Taylor in the
Whig National Convention, 1848, Clay sent Vance a bill for
a calf presented to Vance some years before! Vance paid it
and took a receipt.
COLUMBUS, April 5, 1870.
DEAR NORDHOFF:--I have your letter of first instant. It is
impossible now to say whether I can meet you in Washington or
not. I shall be glad to do so if I can.
I read the near future this way: The two old parties will
be the parties until after the next Presidential election. What-
ever shortcomings belong to the record of the Republican party,
it is greatly to be preferred at the next election to any party led
and ruled, as the Democratic party is, by New York City
plunderers. All sorts of reforms are desirable in our tax and
revenue laws. A Republican will prefer to fight for them in-
side of the Republican party. I therefore would advise against
attempting to organize a new party. In tariff issues I would
seek to gain my ends in congressional districts.
Our elections in Cincinnati and elsewhere are good indorse-
ments of the Fifteenth Amendment.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
CHARLES NORDHOFF.
Private.
COLUMBUS, April 6, 1870.
DEAR GENERAL:--I was so engrossed in affairs connected
with our Legislature when I received the papers you sent me
relative to the case of Fitz-John Porter that I am in doubt
whether I wrote to you about that affair or not. I find no copy
of a letter to you in my letter-book, and suppose it merely ran
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 95
through my head. But at the risk of duplicating what is of no
importance, I write to thank you for the papers and heartily to
congratulate you on the posture of this matter.
If Porter had kept silent there was danger that the received
notion of your masterly campaign would be that you attempted
to take Richmond; that you were furnished with what you
deemed sufficient force to do it; that with high-sounding procla-
mations you entered upon the job, and by incapacity failed.
This is putting it perhaps rather strongly, but there was danger
that this would be the commonly received opinion of your cam-
paign. Now Porter comes in [and] demands a rehearing, the
whole matter, with the new light now shed upon it, is spread
before the public and is made an interesting topic of discussion
for some months; and the truth is made clear and unquestionable,
vindicating your whole conduct and character in a way that is
exceedingly gratifying to all of your friends. It is good -- very
good.
I did think of writing to General Grant on the subject, but I
suppose it is not necessary now. I know nothing that would be
legal testimony in the case except what is known by everybody,
but in the subordinate position I held at Alexandria and Upton's
Hill on those dreadful August days, I saw and heard things
which settle my own opinions against Porter and his confederates
in the most decided way. But I am boring you. Please send me
another copy of the papers.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
MAJOR-GENERAL JOHN POPE.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 6, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR: -- I am in receipt of your favor of the 2nd, and
shall be glad to meet you on the 19th if my engagements will
permit me to do so. I agree with your views, generally, as I
find them in your reports. They are winning their way. I
judge that Winans will be sustained in this district, Stevenson
in his, and so on. I wrote Nordhoff that I wanted no new party
and would have nothing to do with organizing a new one.
96 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
It is probable that I can't be in Washington so soon as the
19th but I shall hope to see you there in May.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
DAVID A. WELLS,
Washington, D. C.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 6, 1870.
DEAR ROGERS:--I have your letter from Duluth. It looks
well. That "bluff" that I am back of, I didn't know about it.
How high, steep, etc., is it? How much of an obstacle to town
growth? My friend Dr. Davis can pay down one thousand to
fifteen hundred dollars on lots, with you or otherwise. I am
not asked for cash on your one-third yet. It can be arranged
somehow as you wish. Bring maps, etc., etc. Why not settle
in Duluth and go into the real estate agency?
[The] Fifteenth Amendment well sustained all over Ohio.
Negroes behaved well; the Democrats unexpectedly well.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
WILLIAM K. ROGERS,
St. Paul.
COLUMBUS, April 6, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--In reply to a letter from Mr. Jones I send
you that part of one of my campaign speeches in 1867 which
contains Judge Thurman's famous resolution of 1866 (?). That
part of my speech was not denied. His position on the Green-
back issue was not defined until six weeks after the campaign
began. I still think he at first opposed the Pendleton plan and
I banked (?) on his differing from the party until he was
forced to give his adhesion to it at Marietta, September 1867.
But he did it cautiously and in a few words. His first full
speech on that question was early in 1868 in the canvass in the
Eighth Congressional District to fill a vacancy caused by the
death of Mr. Hamilton. I send you that speech as reported in
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 97
the Commercial. It is in substance what he said during the
latter part of the canvass of 1867.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE O. P. MORTON,
Washington.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 7, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--. . . Rogers writes me very encouraging
accounts of Duluth. He is now there. Building has gone on
all winter and the place looks like the beginning of a great city.
There are many hundreds of mechanics and laborers at work
on the breakwater, the elevators, the railroads, and private build-
ings. On the main streets the lots sell for one hundred dollars
per foot and are advancing so that he thinks they will
reach three hundred dollars before the summer is out.--All
well.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 9, 1870.
DEAR GENERAL:--I am in receipt of your favor of the 8th,
and thank you for the documents inclosed. I return you General
McDowell's paper. It is "short, sharp, and decisive." One
thing, I think I omitted to mention: The universal sentiment
I hear among those whose judgment you would regard, that
your silence under the great wrong until the war closed was ad-
mirable and noble.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
GENERAL JOHN POPE,
Detroit, Michigan.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 9, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--I fear that the "docs" I sent yesterday may
leave the impression that Judge Thurman was the author of the
famous Fifth Resolution, or chairman of the committee which
7
98 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
reported it. He was neither. He licked it into its present shape
and by his speech put it through. I send you extracts from the
Democratic state organ, the Statesman, of the day after the
convention, which show the speech and the transaction as the
Democracy then considered it. In our canvass his reply was
that Chase, Wade, Greeley and others were at that time equally
opposed to coercion. He also twisted an old speech of Lincoln's
into the same heresy.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE O. P. MORTON,
Washington.
April 11, 1870.--The Cincinnati Gazette criticizes the com-
mutation of the sentence of Steinmitz, for the murder of Heck
at Toledo, from death to imprisonment for life. I felt it was
the most doubtful of any official act of importance which I have
done. The court decided the case finally only a few days before
the day of execution. When the application reached me I had
but two or three days to consider it. It was shown to me that
the convict had borne the character of a peaceful, industrious,
quiet man; that he had been on a debauch, a spree, for a day or
two; was wild and foolish and incapable of deliberate and pre-
meditated malice; that the people generally wished his sentence
commuted. The member of the House, Mr. Griffith, the member
of last year, Mr. St. Clair, General Norton, Mr. Collier, and
others assured me in person that it was the almost universal
feeling that the man ought not to be executed. Mr. McLaren
urged me on general principles to commute; and, giving the ac-
cused the benefit of the doubt I felt as to my duty, I yielded --
perhaps improperly. I must not allow myself to decide another
case on such short notice; not talk to parties urging mercy;
simply hear them and reserve my decision.
There were petitions from many good men, and nothing of
importance of that sort against it. Mr. Griffith said there were
on the jury two or three old men who were opposed to con-
viction, but who finally yielded under the compulsion of weari-
ness, weakness, and sickness.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 99
I have commuted three or four sentences of death and have
refused to interfere in four cases. The four cases were of two
classes: -- 1. Convicts whose previous characters was [were]
desperately bad. 2. The homicides were perpetrated in the
commission of robbery.
The comutations were on the ground of youth and doubt
as to the deliberation and premeditation of the act. A commu-
tation is of course not a pardon. A short imprisonment after
a commutation is not probable. Many men have served out their
life sentences by dying in prison. Many are there who have
been there a great while -- from ten to thirty-five years.
COLUMBUS, April 12, 1870.
DEAR GENERAL:--I am in receipt of your favor of the 9th
in relation to my neglect of your part of the State in making the
appointments for the escort of the remains of General Thomas.
I am glad you wrote it, as it gives me an opportunity to remove
an impression which it is altogether natural you should have.
As you see the facts, your feelings are natural and the complaint
just. But I trust to your candid judgment to relieve me wholly
from blame. The authority to appoint seven committeemen was
given about ten or eleven o'clock A. M. of the day before Gen-
eral Thomas' remains were to reach Toledo at 6 A. M. There
was, therefore, no time for anyone to join the escort who was
southeast of Columbus. For this reason, and this reason alone,
no one was dispatched who resided south or east of here. I
assure you there was neither oversight nor slight of the claims
of your section, and am confident that on reflection you will
so see it.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
[Unidentified.]
COLUMBUS, April 13, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR: -- I am engaged in the work of making up the
Board of Trustees of the Soldiers' Orphans' Homes. Under
any circumstances it would be difficult to do this satisfactorily.
It is made more embarrassing by the shape given to the law. I
100 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
write to assure you that the omission of your name from the
list is due to no question as to your services or conduct in con-
nection with the Home of Xenia. On the contrary, your effi-
ciency, generosity, and heartiness in that work command my ad-
miration and entitle you to the gratitude of every friend of the
soldier and his orphans. I trust you will appreciate my motives
and believe me that I am
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
MAJOR M. S. GUNCKEL,
Dayton, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, April 13, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--Your generous and efficient labors in behalf
of the Orphans' Home at Xenia entitle you to a few words from
me. In the shape in which the law finally passed I am con-
strained to make up the list of the state board without your
name. I need not refer to this further than to say that I fully
appreciate your services and character and regret the condition
of things which seems to require this course. If Xenia had
remained the first State Home I should have named you as the
resident trustee.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
MR. ELI MILLER,
Xenia, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, April 17, 1870.
GENTLEMEN:--I need hardly say that the information con-
tained in your dispatch received last night in relation to Colonel
Burns' opposition to the Home for Soldiers' Orphans took me
completely [by] surprise. You will readily accept my assurance
that I would not knowingly appoint an enemy of the cause. The
explanation of my action is briefly this: It was generally agreed
among the friends of the Home that it was desirable that the
Democrats should have a representation on the Board of Man-
agers. The name of Colonel Burns was suggested by a number
of friends of the measure, and for two or three weeks I have
been in the habit of naming him as a probable nominee for the
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 101
board to all who conferred with me on the subject. Without
exception the expression was favorable; in effect, that if a
Democrat was to be selected, no man could be better. It is to be
hoped that in his action he will prove to be worthy of the trust.
If not, it is a satisfaction to know that there are six men on the
board whose ability and disposition to do good work are beyond
all question.
Your dispatch reached me after the Senate was in secret ses-
sion, and I had no opportunity to change the nomination until
after its confirmation made it too late. But I did the next best
thing--to make known your views. I sent the dispatch by a
senator to our political friends in the Senate, and their action
was with a full knowledge of your statements. I regret exceed-
ingly to disappoint you, and here leave it, hoping you will dis-
cover no intentional fault in what has been done.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
H. C. HEDGES, ESQ.
R. C. SMITH, and others.
April 19, 1870.--The Legislature adjourned yesterday. On
the whole, its work has been well done. A longer session than
was required, longer than I had hoped, but so much shorter than
the last two sessions that the people will be pleased.
The most remarkable event of the session was the attempt
of the Democratic senators Saturday night to defeat the organ-
ization of a Soldiers' Orphans' Home under the act lately passed
for that purpose. Seven gentlemen were nominated to con-
stitute the Board of Managers. The Senate was a tie, seventeen
to seventeen, between the parties. The hour of adjournment
was fixed, and if they could prevent confirmation a few hours the
Orphans' Home was defeated for this year. No objection could
be made to the competency and fitness of the gentlemen nomi-
nated. The objections were: 1. They were all soldiers; 2. Too
many of them belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic;
3. There were not enough Democrats on the board. Accord-
ingly, when the arrival of Mr. Gotch gave the friends of [the]
Orphans' Home one majority, they resolved to prevent its
102 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
organization by a lawless, revolutionary, and unprecedented re-
sort to "absquatulation." They fled from the chamber. Camp-
bell and Hunt ran to the water-closet -- the privy. Others bolted
out of the Capitol into the street. Hubbell, of Delaware, did not
remain out of sight, and the assistant sergeant-at-arms, Gus-
weiler, a Democrat, saw him, gave chase, captured, and brought
him back. This made a quorum in the hall. The nominations
were confirmed and the conspiracy was defeated.
This is the salient fact which should be charged home on the
Democratic party.
The Fifteenth Amendment is the great act of the session.
The history of its passage; the protest signed by only thirty-
nine out of the fifty-five who opposed it; the subprotest of
McVay and Devore in today's Journal, etc., etc., make also a
good topic.
The Democrats of the Senate were very indignant that Hub-
bell allowed himself to be captured. One Democrat said he
would like to be a committee of one to cut his head off.
The Democratic senators say that "if Hubbell had not been
drunk he would not have gone back into the Senate, and their
scheme would have succeeded." Hubbell replies that "if the
other Democrats hadn't been drunk they would never have run
away."
"A very pretty quarrel as it stands."
The repeal of the Visible Admixture Laws by the aid of
Democratic votes (see the vote) was a noteworthy triumph.
The repeal of the Soldiers' Voting Law Repeal and the re-
enactment of the old law is of the same sort.
The Students' Voting Law passed the Senate; did not pass
the House by reason of absence of members.
The law requiring the approval of taxpayers before the
County Commissioners can make expensive works.
The repeal of the Boiler Law.
No attempt by absquatulation to defeat the will of the majority
ever attempted under the present constitution before.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 103
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 19, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--I am in receipt of yours of the 18th. You
are totally mistaken in my character when you say that you pre-
sume what you have written will not disturb me in the least!
I assure you I feel keenly the disappointment and censures of
my Republican friends in Mansfield, and feel deeply that you can
so write. I would not be just to myself not to say this.
I wrote the facts to Mr. Hedges and others. They are simply:
1. All friends of the Home agreed that there should be a Demo-
cratic representative on the board. 2. For three weeks I named
Colonel Burns to all who conversed with me (his name having
been suggested to me by a friend of the Home) on the subject
of the appointments, and all spoke of him as a proper man, if a
Democrat was to go on the board. You are in error in saying
I set aside anybody. No other Mansfield man was named.
Six good men are on the board and I hope Colonel Burns will
turn out less objectionable than you anticipate. If I have made
a mistake, it has been done with the best of motives and in
accordance with the views of many of our best men. I hope
you and my Mansfield friends will see in the facts room for a
charitable construction of my acts. If not, one thing is sure,
when you come to dispense patronage, you will agree with me
that it is no easy job to do satisfactorily.
All this is confidential.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
C. H. BOOTH, ESQ.,
Mansfield, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, April 20, 1870.
DEAR W--:--I thank you heartily for the article on the
Steinmitz case. I think you are right in every particular as to
my action. I did think and still think the case a doubtful one-
the most doubtful of any case of life upon which I have acted.
But I do not regret the action. He was shown to be a man of
low grade, but heretofore peaceful and law-abiding in the main
104 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
--in no sense a desperate or dangerous man; that he was for a
day or two on a drunken debauch, so excited that his ability to
form that deliberate purpose to kill which alone makes murder
in the first degree is at least doubtful. I gave the benefit of that
doubt in favor of life.
Perhaps I was wrong. I admit the case is one of extreme
doubt, but one fact you do not know. There were here from
Toledo a number of your best citizens lobbying for the Griffith
Railroad Bill--gentlemen in no way interested in behalf of
Steinmitz. They personally assured me that the judgment and
wish of the great body of the people of Toledo were against
an execution. This turned the scale. But I prefer no contro-
versy about it. This is private.
Again thanking you, I am,
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
[CLARK WAGGONER (?)]
April 22. -- Generals Force and Keifer dined with us yester-
day. They are here at the first meeting of the Ohio Soldiers'
and Sailors' Orphans' Home. Keifer was in the battle of Cedar
Creek. Says the absence of Sheridan left the command of the
army in the hands, not so much of General Wright, as of Sheri-
dan's staff; that Wright's name was used for the current busi-
ness but practically his command was merely nominal. On the
morning of the battle he had no staff--that to him [Keifer] he
appeared confused and stupefied. But he says he [Wright] had
decided to attack the enemy before Sheridan's return.
General Buckland was chosen President of the Board of
Managers of the State Home. They decided to adopt the
orphans at Xenia as in the State care from today.
We had a fine reception at General Wright's. Lucy is gain-
ing flesh and color again, and never looked more charmingly in
my eyes than last evening.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 105
Private.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 22, 1870.
DEAR SIR: -- I am obliged for the friendly tone of your letter.
You do me no more than justice. A full statement of the facts
so far as my action is concerned would leave the matter about
as you put it, so I need not detail them. I thank you for a
charity not always exhibited, and close by saying that few men
have spent as much time, money, and labor to make successful
the cause of Orphans' Homes in Ohio as I have; and that not-
withstanding all mistakes, I am glad to be able to say that the
prospect is very encouraging, and that as a whole the board
is an excellent one.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
[ Unidentified.]
COLUMBUS, OHIO, April 22, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR: -- The public documents for your Historical
Society will be sent as soon as practicable.
The St. Clair papers will be purchased as soon as the court's
order will permit their transfer to the State. They will be
placed in the Library, and under such proper regulations as
may be established every facility will be afforded you with
reference to them.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
A. T. GOODMAN, ESQ.,
Cleveland, Ohio.
April 27, 1870. -- Returned last night from a pleasant trip to
Fremont. Lucy, little Fanny, and her nurse, Eliza Jane, gone
on a visit to Cincinnati. Aunt Margaret and Miss Sharpe are
here on their way to a Woman's Rights Convention at Dayton.
My point on this subject is that the proper discharge of the
functions of maternity is inconsistent with the like discharge of
the duties of (the political duties of) citizenship.
106 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
COLUMBUS, May 3, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE: -- . . . We have been busy selling the
[Insane] Asylum grounds and buying Sullivant's fine place in its
stead. We got one hundred thousand five hundred dollars to
boot. A world of selfish scrambling about it. But all is well.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
May 12, 1870. -- Today C. T. Webber, of Cincinnati, began
to paint my portrait. I had a miniature painted by an English-
man, named Freeman, in 1847. Witt, of Columbus, painted my
portrait two years ago, 1868.
COLUMBUS, May 16, 1870.
DEAR GENERAL:--My wife compels me to say, and says I
must do it voluntarily and spontaneously, that the first phrase in
your letter is very objectionable. You say, "I suppose you take
enough interest in the Ohio Soldiers' and Sailors', etc." "He
ought to know (I now quote from the indignant female) that
nothing is so near your heart," etc. She is glad the Xenia
matron is to go -- will visit Xenia as soon as she has gone. We
both like the prospect. I hope you will keep up hope and put it
through. I think well of Dr. G-- but do not know him in that
capacity well enough to be sure.
Good luck to all concerned.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
GENERAL M. F. FORCE.
May 30, Decoration Day.--Left Columbus Saturday night
(28th) 9 or 10 P. M., sleeping car to Steubenville. Got there at
3:30 to 4 A. M. No hackman at depot. Wandered over town
hunting United States Hotel. Found it after a long hunt. No-
body awake. Tried to stir out of his bunk a colored servant.
After a long delay got him aroused. Said there was no empty
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 107
bed in the house ! Scouted over town until daylight. Went back
to hotel; nobody up. Stretched out on chairs in ladies' parlor,
got a good nap; disturbed by woman cleaning up. Told her my
afflictions. She gave me a poor little room. Slept well.
At breakfast met General Anson McCook. All right now;
church with him. Dined ever so pleasantly at the artist
Andrews'. A pleasant set. Joseph Means, General A. McCook,
Andrews and his fine wife, and Colonel Baird.
Andrews has a studio with a good collection of curiosities,
gathered in Europe,-- armor, weapons, and "sich." Called on
Mrs. Webster, widow of Colonel George P.; Mrs. McCook,
mother of the gallant family which lost so many of its members;
[and] Colonel James A. Collier, on his eighty-first birthday.
Spoke ex tempore in the sun about thirty minutes at the monu-
ment in the cemetery. A great crowd; a so-so speech.
June 3.--Wednesday evening, June 1, we gave a reception to
General Sherman who was in Columbus to attend the wedding
of his nephew McComb to Miss Clara Baldwin. The general is
a ready--more than that--a rapid, impulsive, jovial talker,
who puts all at ease by his hearty, cordial manner.
Our beautiful little Fanny, now two and three-fourths years old,
came into the crowded parlor, looking her prettiest. She is
ordinarily very lively and active, but she was slightly subdued
by the numbers and noise. General Sherman picked her up and
kissed her heartily, saying, as he felt her plump arms and legs:
"Ah, there is plenty of bread and milk in this house; there's no
cotton here!"
COLUMBUS, June 3, 1870.
MY DEAR BOY:--I see by the Journal you are playing base-
ball and that you play well. I am pleased with this. I like to
have my boys enjoy and practice all athletic sports and games,
especially riding, rowing, hunting, and ball playing. But I
am a little afraid, from [what] Uncle says, that overexertion
and excitement in playing baseball will injure your hearing.
Now, you are old enough to judge of this and to regulate your
conduct accordingly. If you find there is any injury you ought
108 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
to resolve to play only for a limited time-- say an hour or an
hour and a half on the same day.
Uncle and Sarah [Jane Grant, visiting Columbus] with our
whole family are well. We had General Sherman at our house
Wednesday evening with a pleasant party.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
BIRCHARD HAYES,
Fremont.
COLUMBUS, June 3, 1870.
DEAR BROTHER JAMES:--We are very glad to get your good
letter from Berlin. We began to think you had dropped us all,
and felt a little as if we deserved it. I will try in future to keep
you posted with Commercials. We did not know your address.
Birch and Webb are at school at Fremont. . . . Ruddy
is at home--treated like an orphan or like a stepchild because
he is named after his father! . . . Little Fan is the bird
of the house--very healthy and lively and pretty. She talks
rapidly and recklessly, pronouncing all hard words wrong of
course, but going it.
I visited Dayton, at Dick Anderson's, with Lucy a short time
ago. The Soldiers' National Asylum was the excuse. A most
beautiful, noble affair it has grown to be.
Lucy fattens a little which improves her good looks. She
employs herself about soldiers' orphans,-- we now have a Home
in the worry of starting at Xenia,--about the decoration of
soldiers' graves which is a success, and about the deaf and dumb
pupils at the Reform Farm for boys. These matters with home
affairs keep her busy and happy.
I am ready to go out of politics now. The cause I enlisted
for is completely master, and the new questions do not interest
me. There is no feeling or interest in political matters. The
Administration does well--reduces the debt, keeps out of dif-
ficulty, and lets things float.
I go to Cincinnati occasionally. It grows steadily but not very
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 109
rapidly. Is as pleasant as any Western city, or Eastern for
that matter, but perhaps a little "slow."--All send regards.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
DR. JAMES D. WEBB,
Berlin.
COLUMBUS, June 13, 1870.
MY DEAR GENERAL: -- You will be astonished as I was by this
decision as to the right of the soldiers to vote at the Dayton
National Asylum. But there it is. How can we get rid of it?
Can you pass an Act of Congress that will avoid it? I feel
like saying that the soldiers must vote as usual, and test the case
again.
I merely call your attention to it with a view to congressional
action. You recollect the act ordering jurisdiction expressly
provided that residents of Ohio retained the right to vote.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE R. C. SCHENCK.
Washington.
June 14-18, 1870. -- To Cincinnati to make the welcoming
speech at the National Saengerfest Wednesday evening, 15th.
A great audience. [Gave] Webber four or five sittings on por-
trait. His portrait of Governor Anderson (Charles) is very
spirited; fine, eagle-like eyes; a little too much red in the com-
plexion. Mine is rather coarse -- a red, bloated look. Had been
in the sun in an open carriage about five hours the day before.
My skin burns red easily and so this ill feature is perhaps too
etc., etc.
COLUMBUS, June 30, 1870.
DEAR COUSIN EDWARD: -- I today received your very welcome
letter, and the enclosed copy of Grandmother's diary. It is ex-
ceedingly interesting and I am much obliged to you for it. I
have a copy of her diary from 1840 to her death. In that she
speaks of having given her previous diary to Uncle William.
110 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
But the fragment you send is the first part of it I have been able
to find. I have for some years been interested in George Noyes'
compilation of facts, notes, and pedigree, etc., etc., of the Hayes
family, and have from him and other sources got together a
pile of papers pertaining to the matter. I would like to have you
send me a list of your family, embracing the names, dates of
birth, marriages, deaths, present place of residence, etc., etc.;
the list to include your father and mother and all of their de-
scendants. This is something of a job, but as you are in that
line now, William being census-taker, I hope you will find time
to gratify me. Who is the person to do the same thing for
Aunt Fanny's family? I wrote to --- Cook, but I suppose I
did not get his address correctly.
I have four children living, three boys and a girl. I send
you photographs of the oldest (Birtie, for short) Sardis Birch-
ard Hayes, now sixteen, and the youngest Fanny, now two and
a half, also of wife and my own. We are living temporarily
here. We mean to quit public life in a couple of years and go
back to Cincinnati or possibly to Toledo.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
EDWARD BANCROFT,
Chesterfield, Massachusetts.
July 1, 1870. -- Returned from a four [days'] trip to Wash-
ington on the 28th. Stopped there at the Arlington, a new hotel
and the best ever in Washington. Board five dollars a day! The
great statesman at Washington now is Governor Morton. He
is a strong, logical debater, who has the faculty of putting an
argument in a way that is satisfactory to the best minds, and
at the same [time] is understood and appreciated by the most
ignorant.
I called at the White House in the evening, Monday, 27th.
It was a sultry night after a blazing day. General Grant with
ladies and children was sitting on the portico looking out to-
wards the Washington Monument. The doors were open through
the house from the front for the draft. I gave my name to the
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 111
servant at the front door. He went back and soon returned
with the words, walk in. General Grant came into the house
and met me very cordially and going through the parlors in-
troduced me to the party on the portico. Mrs. Grant, old Gen-
eral Dent, Mrs. General Rucker, Mrs. General Dyer, Jessie
Grant (I think that's the daughter's name), the little fellow, and
myself made the party sitting on the great portico. A fountain
not in sight could be heard out in the darkness in front. The
general was not smoking. The conversation was of West Point,
the President's fishing excursion, and the hot weather. Gen-
eral Grant gave the heat of the day before in many cities, but
New York was hottest, 106 degrees in the shade. He spoke of
the heat in the Senate Chamber; hoped it would be so hot that
there would be no extension of the session.
The British Minister, Mr. Thornton, called with his wife and
an Irish lady. General Grant spoke of the death of Lord
Clarendon; a conversation of small interest, but natural, fol-
lowed. General Grant was polite in tone and language. The talk
was turned to the rapid growth and change in this country by
Mr. Thornton saying that on a map of 1827 there was no such
town as Chicago. Mrs. Rucker remembered being at Fort Dear-
born, near the busiest part of Chicago, when there was no town!
General Grant rode a fleet pacing black mare to Chicago twenty
(?) years [ago] when he was a first lieutenant. He could have
swapped his fast mare for an eighty-acre lot where ground on
Wabash Avenue is worth now three hundred dollars a foot.
After the callers left the ladies retired. The General called
for cigars. The son, a five-foot-eleven boy, weighing one hun-
dred and sixty, who graduates next year at West Point, and a
comrade came down.
I asked the general as to his health, his headaches, etc. He
said his health was excellent. That he quit drinking water at
his meals and for a year had had no headache. He had now
an easy time in his office. The first three months was hard, but
now all comfortable.
San Domingo was his pet topic. He did not expect it to be
ratified (the treaty). Thought the committee on Foreign Rela-
tions badly constituted. Sumner as chairman, a man of very
112 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
little practical sense, puffed-up, and unsound. Carl Schurz, an
infidel and atheist; had been a rebel in his own country--as
much a rebel against his government as Jeff Davis. Casserly,
a bigoted Catholic who hated England; a learned man and a good
man, but his prejudices made him unsafe.
I told him I did not know upon what grounds the Administra-
tion wanted San Domingo. He in a rapid, brief, but compre-
hensive way set forth its advantages, described the island, its
productions, people, etc., etc., in a most capital way.
He said he felt "much embittered" against Sumner for unjust
attacks on Major Babcock. Major Babcock could not defend
himself; gave him a fine character. "I can defend myself, but
he is merely a major of engineers with no opportunity to meet
a Senator."
COLUMBUS, July 14, 1870.
MY DEAR JUDGE: -- I hasten to explain: Either I wrote what
I did not intend or you have greatly misapprehended me. There
is nothing "wrong" in your asking, or my doing what you ask,
in the sense in which you use the word. It is all right in that
sense. What I meant was that in my condition, pecuniarily,
it would be wrong for me to spend money or incur obligations
such as your request required. By "wrong" I mean merely im-
prudent--it wouldn't pay for me to do it.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE ISAAC RANNEY,
Delaware, Ohio.
July 15, 1870.--About 12:30 today, "War declared, hostili-
ties commenced," was reported as telegraphed to the West by
the Associated Press. France has probably declared war. My
sympathies are all with Prussia. I confess I fear the dash and
power of France will be too much for Prussia at the start.
I look to the bottom and German holdfast courage to save them
in a long war.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 113
July 21, 1870. -- I went down to Cincinnati on the 6:10 P. M.
train Tuesday evening. Stopped at John Roth's St. Nicholas.
Saw Landy who told me the hot weather and a mising hand
had prevented him from finishing the Rembrandt photographs
of Lucy and myself.
[On the] 19th, C. T. Webber painted two hours on my por-
trait. It is much improved. He will want three or four more
sittings. Saw Clarke, the artist who painted Judge Bartley.
Had wine with Beard in the P. M. Beard and I drank a
schoppen and a half each. Hot weather, very. A happy evening
with Dr. and Mrs. Davis.
[On the] 20th, took car (street) at Gibson House, corner of
Fourth and Walnut for depot; 8:30 train for Wilmington.
Found a large audience at the Fair Grounds--three or four
thousand--listening to a history of the battles and sieges of the
Seventy-ninth Regiment. Tears were in many eyes as he [the
speaker] told affecting incidents. The color-guard lost eight --
seven holding the colors--at the battle [Peach Tree Creek,
Georgia, July 20, 1864] of which this was the anniversary. It
was intended that I should be colonel; but the wound at South
Mountain and the promotion of Colonel Scammon prevented. I
became colonel of my own gallant Twenty-third.
After dinner, Chaplain Stillwell told good stories of the
Seventy-ninth's campaign, and I then made a short speech. The
salient point was: -- "We need not overlook the soldier. A fort-
night ago, when we celebrated the Fourth of July, all was peace-
ful. Halcyon seas, clear skies, favoring gales. No murmur, no
sinister threatenings anywhere. Now, wherever on earth the
wires are stretched, the faces of men are bent forward eager to
catch the first rumbling of the great battles that are to recon-
struct the map of Europe--perhaps the map of the world!
Battles that are perhaps to overturn thrones and destroy dynasties
that were deemed settled for centuries. Our policy, our purpose,
our wish is to be neutral, to keep out of the maelstrom. But we
have sympathies, we have opinions. During our great conflict
for liberty and nationality, we had many enemies and few friends
in Europe. But from first to last the German people and the
8
114 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
German government sympathized with us and were our friends.
We reciprocate today their feelings."
There was much sensation and evident approval in the
audience.
I took the cars back to Morrow. In a few minutes the train
which leaves Cincinnati about 4 P. M. came, and I returned
home reaching here at 9:30. I was surprised to find that Lucy
and the boys, Birch and Ruddy, had gone to Cincinnati; sur-
prised only because I had not seen them on the down train.
We passed at Selma, and while the trains stopped at that station
I walked alongside the whole down train without seeing them.
Luck to them.
Private.
COLUMBUS, July 21, 1870.
MY DEAR GENERAL:--I prefer, for reasons not important
enough to name, to put no letter on file at this time in relation
to the judgeship now held by Judge Leavitt. But if you think it
proper and worth while to give my views to the appointing power
I can express a most decided opinion as to the fitness and merits
of Judge Force. He is an accomplished scholar and lawyer, an
upright and able judge, and a man fitted by temper, experience,
manners, and character to fill the place referred to acceptably
to the bar and to the people. His appointment I regard, and
I think the public will regard, as honorable to the appointing
power. I hope it will be made.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
GENERAL J. D. Cox,
Washington.
COLUMBUS, July 21, 1870.
MY DEAR GENERAL:--It will particularly gratify me if you
can give employment in Europe for my brother-in-law, Colonel
(Dr.) Joseph T. Webb, now in Paris or London. He is a man
of sense, character, and culture and possesses a knowledge of
French and German; has been since the war generally in Ger-
many; is thoroughly American; did good service in the war; al-
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 115
though a surgeon was brevetted for gallantry in the Valley in
action, lieutenant-colonel, etc., etc. He travels in Europe on
account of the health of his wife (nee Annie Matthews). He
has more knowledge of his profession, of society, and affairs
than a majority of our representatives abroad. I got a letter
from you two years ago and filed it with others for the Hamburg
consulate. Disgusted with the rush, I did not press his claims.
It strikes me that now capacity, courage, accomplishments, and
character may be more in demand, and I therefore freely urge
his merits.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
GENERAL J. D. Cox.
COLUMBUS, July 23, 1870.
DEAR Guy: -- I have long thought of writing to you, and been
anxious to hear from you again. The slip I send reminds me
forcibly of old college days. Tudor Fay was one of my nearest
neighbors in Cincinnati. We daily met. He often spoke of
you with the friendly and amiable feeling of years ago. You
notice the tone of the article. He was formerly devout, became
a skeptic, was severely censured--felt it keenly, and was some-
what embittered. In all my intercourse with him I found him as
warm-hearted, kind, and friendly as when a boy. What he may
have said to give offense to his church associates, if anything,
I do not know.
My family is without change except the change which years
bring. My oldest boy is almost seventeen. My only daughter is
the charming one, nearly three. Uncle Birchard made me a long
visit a few weeks ago. I hunted up and read to him a sort of
journal of our Texas trip, reviving recollections of that inter-
esting time, and of the persons we then met, so many of whom
have passed away.
We both retain the old feeling for you and yours in full
measure. I do not know how much our political differences
have affected your feelings. I trust not at all. One thing, I
doubt not, that as to the practical questions of the present and
116 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
the future we are substantially in accord. At any rate, I as-
sure you I am
As ever your friend,
R. B. HAYES.
P. S. -- My kindest regards to Mrs. Bryan.
GUY M. BRYAN,
Texas.
July 23-29. -- Housed with an attack of fever; not severe.
Lucy read me "Our Mutual Friend." Affecting scenes;
a softening effect on hard natures this must have. Certainly has
on mine.
An ulcer on my left eye, result of fever, houses me up from
28th to August 6, on which day with goggles and green shade
I start for Chicago, St. Paul, and Duluth.
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN, August 8, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--We are stopping a few hours here before
going to St. Paul. The fever left me with a badly inflamed eye.
It is almost well, and I am getting strong.
I hunted up the Birchard here. He is a pleasant gentleman --
has an extensive furniture business. He knew in a general way
about the whole tribe; traces back to the Norwich family.
My travelling companion is General Force of Cincinnati.
How good the news of Prussia flogging Napoleon!
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
ST. PAUL, August 13, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--We go to Duluth this morning. I spent last
evening with my old friend, Judge Finch. He is a prosperous
and happy old gentleman after his troubles. His son sells a
million a year, his grandchildren and all are good and promising.
He said: "Now don't forget to give my love to Birchard. I
think of him with the greatest pleasure." He said: "Your
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 117
sister Fanny had the finest character. Take her mind and heart
and disposition and person, she was the loveliest woman I ever
knew."
We go from Duluth by the lakes to Cleveland, probably.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
P.S.--Eyes right -- health good. Send this to Lucy.
S. BIRCHARD.
August 27.--I returned last Wednesday (24th) evening after
almost three weeks' absence. St. Paul is a fine, promising city
with a future. Duluth has a fair start, but is a mere shanty
town now. No brick building yet under roof; three building.
The census shows a little more than three thousand people.
About three-fourths of the buildings are temporary. But the
town is laid out skillfully and I believe another year will show it
doubled in people and more than doubled in buildings and busi-
ness.
General Force and I climbed the steep hills in spite of tangled
thickets and mosquitoes! . . . Rogers visited with us the
decayed town of Superior, Fond du Lac, and other places where
his health and strength permitted.
We returned on steamer (propeller) Northern Light, Captain
Murch, five days to Cleveland.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, August 28, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--Returning from my Minnesota trip on
Wednesday, I found so much to do that I have not written.
I am not quite certain of my movements this week. I go to a
Twenty-third Reunion at Ashland on Wednesday, and may go
direct from there to Cornell University. If not, I will come to
Fremont probably. I had a talk with Mr. Randall and his son.
His notions of Cornell are mine, but he really knows very little
more than I do.
118 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
I will talk up Duluth when we meet, which will be soon. I
found matters just about as I anticipated. Our property has
about doubled.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
September 9-14.--Went with Birch to Ithaca, New York, to
place him at Cornell University. He is deficient in Greek to
enter the classical course. He will take the combined course
which is the same as the classical except that German and French
are substituted for Greek. He will make up his Latin during
the year.
The advantages of Cornell seem to be in a liberal, progressive,
and practical spirit and these items: 1, Modern languages, 2,
English language and literature, [and] 3, Natural sciences [are]
more thoroughly taught.
No. 3, 4TH STORY, CASCADILLA PLACE,
CORNELL UNIVERSITY, ITHACA, NEW YORK,
September 13, 1870, 4 P. M.
DEAR UNCLE: -- How long this letter will be depends on how
long Birch is kept in the grammar examination in the reception
parlor on the first story. He is through with geography, arith-
metic, and algebra. I do not doubt his entering the freshman
class with the condition that he makes up geometry and Latin
during the year. I have engaged a tutor in geometry and the
Latin professor will get him a Latin tutor.
I am glad I came on many accounts. Not the least important
is, I got this beautifully located room for him, Randall, and
Baker, of Norwalk, a bright well-appearing boy. Three occupy
such rooms as this, sixteen feet square with a bedroom sixteen
by ten attached. Three windows in front command the finest,
noblest view in the region. The whole of Ithaca, the whole
lake, and miles of valley.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 119
Birchie and his two chums are here (4.15 P. M.) and think
they are safe. Mr. Randall and Mr. Baker will see to the car-
peting and furniture -- about thirty dollars for each boy, I judge.
The other expenses are about as I named to you, viz., $5.50 per
week for board, etc., washing extra. The Cascadilla is half-way
between town and the other college buildings. It contains the
boarding halls and kitchens, the large reception room, the rooms
of President White and a dozen professors--one-half with
their wives -- and about forty students, perhaps more. I regard
it as the choice place, especially for beginners. A professor is
our boys' next neighbor. All Birchie's teachers know him, and
will give him personal attention. The relations between profes-
sors and students seem just what they ought to be . . . .
The Cascadilla was built for a water-cure, and is in some
respects inferior to the new college buildings in its arrange-
ments. The students' rooms in the new buildings are the best
I ever saw. The advantage of the Cascadilla is its location,
half-way between town and college--the residence of the pro-
fessors, etc., etc. Altogether I leave here feeling very com-
fortably about Birch.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, September 26, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--I returned this morning after speaking five
times in Mr. Bingham's district. It has been very pleasant work.
I go back tomorrow and speak for two weeks somewhere almost
daily. The fine air of the hill region and the exercise prove
very invigorating.
My eyes steadily improve. I think they will get as good as
ever. For reading and writing they are as good as ever.
I have a letter from Birch. He seems contented, and I think
will do well.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
120 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
SANDUSKY, OHIO, October 4, 1870.
MY DARLING:--I would not write this morning, but it is my
birthday. I am today forty-seven years old. Passing on to
the wrong side, the downhill side, of life! How strange it
seems! You and I feel young. Only observation, not our own
experience, teaches us that we are getting nearer to the mysteri-
ous change. My life with you has been so happy-so successful
-so beyond reasonable anticipations, that I think of you with a
loving gratitude that I do not know how to express. Opening
your side of my valise this morning I found a little sack be-
longing to one of little Fan's dolls. I at once was carried back
to our beautiful home and busied myself watching her stubbing
about with her chubby legs and firm feet. Precious darling she
is.
We had a good meeting last night. Root greeted me warmly
--inquired after you kindly--called for three cheers for me
after my speech and followed in a stirring talk of the best sort.
My speech was as near a failure as I ever make. The cold, etc.,
etc., made it imposible for me to get a flow.
I shall call on various friends this morning and go to Milan
after dinner. "S' much."
Affectionately ever,
R.
MRS. HAYES.
COLUMBUS, November 2, 1870.
MY DEAR GENERAL:--I have yours of the 31st. The topic
you know is far from new--indeed, almost stale, and for a
man of your resources to take it up, and deal with it as you
would, if you touched it at all, would be regarded by many as
an unfriendly attack. It would be quoted by the common enemy,
and it occurs to me therefore, that I should not make it in any
conspicuous way. We are furnishing the enemy with powder
and ball too recklessly these days. Thank you for your con-
fidence.
I would like to see you before Congress meets. Can't you
make me a visit?
Sincerely,
JAMES A. GARFIELD. R. B. HAYES.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 121
COLUMBUS, November 5, 1870.
MY DARLING: -- General Knapp and I met the Board of Man-
agers at the Orphans' Home at Xenia yesterday. Mrs. Monroe,
Mrs. Keifer, and Mr. Monroe were also there. You were invited,
and great expectations, by little folks and all, were disappointed
by your absence. It is a fine place. You would enjoy it all. Mrs.
Griswold is a kind, good old lady. The children are bright and
happy, the teachers and matrons of cottages all seemed in
earnest. You will enjoy visiting there. It is more interesting
than ever. Mrs. Monroe and her lord both urge you to visit
them. Dr. and Mrs. Griswold ditto, etc.
Yours,
H.
MRS. HAYES,
Fremont.
COLUMBUS, December 7, 1870.
DEAR GENERAL: -- I write to request that if necessary you will
act in the reappointment of General Hastings as Marshal of the
Northern District. He was my adjutant-general and was dis-
abled under my command. I take a particular interest in his
success, and will be obliged personally if you can properly sup-
port him.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
P. S.--The President's message is exceedingly satisfactory
to the people. The only part objected to is the San Domingo,
and but little attention is given to that.
HONORABLE J. A. GARFIELD.
COLUMBUS, December 7, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR:--My particular friend General Hastings will
want your help to retain his place as Marshal of the Northern
District. You know his merits as a man, public officer, and dis-
abled soldier, and I therefore merely ask your attention to his
122 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
case with the remark that I take more interest in his success
than in any other similar thing.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
P. S. -- The President's message is applauded by all our good
Republicans. The only exception, if any, is taken to the San
Domingo project.
HONORABLE JOHN A. BINGHAM.
COLUMBUS, OHIO, December 7, 1870.
DEAR FOSTER: -- "Which I wish to remark and my language
is plain" that my friend General Hastings wants to be reap-
pointed Marshal in the Northern District. A better man can't
be found between the river and the lake. If you want to know
how daring and meritorious he was as a soldier, ask "Old
Whitey" who carried him under fire in about a hundred fights of
all sorts. "Old Whitey" is at Spiegel Grove, and "I shall not deny
what that name might imply."
Help Hastings keep his place if you conscientiously can and
oblige,
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
HONORABLE CHARLES FOSTER.
Fostoria, Ohio.
COLUMBUS, December 11, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--. . . The President's message is good. With
the exception of San Domingo, it is approved by all fair-minded
Republicans.
Colonel George McCook, who has been much in England and
France lately, [says] that the Administration has built us up
vastly in those countries, and in Europe generally. Washburne
[Minister to France], he says, has made Americans hold up
their heads by his courage and promptitude. That the recall of
Motley is just right. That he cares too much for his Euro-
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 123
pean reputation. That the English were in absolute alarm on
his recall. This from a Democrat. . . .
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
COLUMBUS, December 16, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:--. . . I have got hold of an old document
(printed) giving a full account of Great-grandfather Hayes'
captivity for seven years among the Indians--1707 to 1714.
He was an active, cheerful, plucky fellow, and saved his life by it.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
COLUMBUS, December 25, 1870.
MY DEAR SIR: -- I am glad you feel hopeful about the com-
pletion of the herculean task you have undertaken. I am slowly
gathering the figures and facts concerning the Brattleboro branch
of the numerous family. I will not be able to get all, but I
already have about three-fourths of the multitudinous tribe and
can give you what I have on a fortnight's notice. . . .
If I read your letter correctly, Judge [Guy Humphrey] Mc-
Master's mother was a sister of my grandmother. I would like
to see what he says of her. My grandmother was an uncommon
person. Her diaries and letters show talent and character. She
exhibited artistic genius also in her needlework. She copied
from nature accurately in worsted-work flowers, leaves, shrubs,
etc., etc., and her industry was marvellous to the last days of her
long life. If anything more than mere dry statistics go into
your work--more than the masculine titled officials who are
usually so honored.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
REV. L. SMITH.
December 26, 1870.-- Birchard came home from Cornell to
spend Christmas vacation last Wednesday. Looks thin but
healthy and happy. Is grown but little. Much improved in
124 RUTHERFORD BIRCHARD HAYES
scholarship and fond of his student life. We originally called
him Birchard, with no other Christian name. "Simple Birchard"
was our phrase about it. When he grew large enough to know
that Uncle Birchard's Christian name was Sardis, he took that
name also. Finding it was no more agreeable to Uncle than it
is to me, we asked him to drop it which he did a few weeks ago.
I now offered him for his choice as a middle name either of his
ancestral names, Scott, Cook, Austin, Russell, etc., etc. He
chose Austin, the maiden name of my grandmother Birchard. So
Birchard Austin Hayes it shall be.
Webb came Saturday evening, about 9 P. M., from Fremont,
fatter than ever before. His cheerful, happy smile and good
looks are very pleasant to see. He was named James Webb.
He is called Webb, and preferring another family name we agree
to drop the James and give him a middle letter, C for Cook.
So Webb C. Hayes it shall be. My wife's grandfather was Isaac
Cook, a notably good and lovable man.
Ruddy and little Fanny both at home. Fanny's happiness with
her presents was the happiness of the day. A paper cap and
blue thin paper flowing robe, given her by her cousins Fanny and
Minnie Platt, was the occasion of uproarious fun as she rushed
and romped through the house. Our excellent colored cook.
Winnie Monroe, and her Mary were of the happy circle.
Birch has made good progress in German and his other studies.
Thus far Cornell fulfills my expectations.
COLUMBUS, December 27, 1870.
DEAR UNCLE:-- . . . As to Birchie's name, it is not
of much consequence. I supposed you rather preferred a mid-
dle letter as I do. In any event the Christian name will remain
and be known as Birchard. The middle letter being usually
merely a letter. B. A. Hayes, or Birchard A. Hayes, looks well.
But you and he can fix [it] just as you prefer. Your father and
mother will leave no descendants of their name, so that Birchard
among all who have known you, means you, and nobody else.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.
GOVERNOR OF OHIO--1870 125
COLUMBUS, December 29, 1870.
DEAR HALSTEAD:--Is it safe to write an editor a private
note? I suppose it is in your case, and so I write, not for pub-
lication, the facts.
I am not interfering. I was asked if General Schenck re-
signed before Christmas, if I thought there was time enough
for an election. I replied I thought there was. I was then
asked if the resignation was delayed until, I think, January 10.
I replied I thought not. This is the substance of it. I said
nothing until asked and in reply to questions. I preferred of
course to have the resignation so there would be no question
as to my duty. If in my last reply to General Schenck this
appears, it may be misconstrued. But the fact is, I did not
interfere. I cared nothing at all about when or whether an
election was held. I preferred either that the resignation should
be so early or so late that no doubts could arise, and didn't care
which. -- Write me. Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
P. S.-- My intention is to quit the struggle for political pro-
motion and at the end of my present term to go into private
life. I don't want to quit with friends accusing me of blind
partisanship. I don't want any friend to take back his uttered
opinions, but perhaps the fact here stated may influence the
expression of them. Hence this P. S. -- H.
MURAT HALSTEAD,
EDITOR, Cincinnati Commercial.
COLUMBUS, December 30, 1870.
SIR: -- I know Judge Ichabod Corwin well, and am acquainted
with his reputation as a lawyer, judge, and public man. He is a
gentleman of purity of character, sound judgment, and superior
talents. His legal learning and ability are of a high order, and
his qualifications for the office of judge are excellent in all re-
spects. He is a patriotic Republican, and possesses the confi-
dence of good men. His reputation is of the best sort and I
believe he deserves it. Respectfully,
R. B. HAYES.
THE PRESIDENT.
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