(25 M-5-88.) THE Liverpool and London and Globe Insurance Company. READ OFFICE 43 WILLIAM STREET, N.Y. - HENRY W. EATON, Resident Manager GEO. W. HOYT, Deputy Manager J. D. TOMLIN INSURANCE AND Real Estate Agent, 41 Arcade ROCHESTER, N. Y. Residence 21 Hudson St. Rochester N. Y. Agency Jan 9th 1889 Hon Fredk Douglass Dear Sir, Your esteemed favor of 4th inst received, and in Compliance with your wish Enclosed please find Statement of a/c from Sepr 3rd /87 to Jan 9th /89. And Draft #123481 Nation- al Park Bank New York for Thirty three + 52/100 Dollars to Balance a/c to date. In this Statement I have taken time to prove each a/c Seperately and find your Balance much much larger than I had given you in my late hurried Statements. I am interrupted so much when posting that I had made a few entries against you that I am cheerful to rectify. You or any one you appoint to look after your prop- erty here are welcome anytime to examine my a/c to your entire satisfaction. And under the circumstances which are and were beyond my control I am very thankful for the relief you afford me in the release you so kindly given me, although I did not deserve you, in your 690trouble by abandoning the agency of your property, although a great trial to me worry and loss of time during the day in looking after it and also a loss of no little sleep at night. You will also please remember the reduction I secured in the assessment on your Property hence the decrease in taxes. Remain Respectfully Yours J. D. TomlinPort au Prince. 17th January 1889 To the honorable Hon. Thos F. Bayard Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. Sir: I have the honor to state that I am the agent of the captured steamer "Haytian Republic," and that I have conducted the defense of said vessel. The affair having been settled between the U. S. Legation and the Government of Hayti, I called upon Mr Thompson, our Minister, for an adjustment of the case as far as I am personally concerned. It will be shown in the course of this letter that Mr Thompson referred me to the Department, which must be the excuse for this somewhat lenghty communication. I had proposed that the Government of Hayti should pay the costs of defending the ship, since such defense is a natural consequence of the illegal seizure, but as Mr. Thompson has expressly decided otherwise for reasons unknown to me, I look to our Government for an adjustment of the affair as far as I am concerned. The entire indemnity asked and agreed upon is $120.000.- As agent of the company, or line, my regular commission is 5% on any funds going in or out, earned or expended, collected, recovered as paid in this city. Under this head I am entitled to Gold $6.000.-- [*3125*][*2*] The Defense. According to the customs and usages established in Hayti, the defense is entitled to a compensation of not less than 10% (ten) on values involved and recovered, in any process of law. I beg leave to enclose herewith a certificate marked No. 1, signed by some of the principal lawyers and merchants of this community in support of this assertion. The values involved, or at stake, in the case of the "Haytian Republic", are the following: Value of Vessel Condemned to be forfeited to Hayti, but recovered, $100,000 Amount of fine imposed by judgment but annulled or remitted, $ 50,000 Damages awarded, $120,000 -------------- Total Value involved or at stake $270,000 Fees at 10%, due the Defense: $ 27,000 I may as well state here that I am not at liberty to disclose the names of the lawyers whose services I have had recourse to; they would be regarded as traitors to their country by those in power, and would be treated accordingly - Nor have any of them signed the certificate to which I have had references. The entire responsability of all acts pertaining to the defense against the Government of Hayti rests therefore upon myself. [*3*] The compensation which I am entitled to must be in proportion to the values at stake. That which is "at stake" is subject to abide the issue of a contest, to be gained by victory and lost by defeat. (Webster). The Department is aware that my defense is all that could have been desired, and no better proof of this could be had than the fact that the Department's decision, sent to the Government of Hayti through Minister S. Preston, under date of November 28th, 1888, was principally based upon points which Captain Ramsay, Commander of the U.S. Ship "Boston", derived from my "protestation". I beg leave, for the better understanding of what I wish to convey, to examine the case at issue in its principal phases: The release of the "Haytian Republic" and the payment of an indemnity having been resolved upon in the Government's decision of November 28th, the proprietors handed in a claim of $200,000. -- for the Company and $150,000. -- for Cress and Passengers, -------------- $350,000. -- in all, and sent Mr. B. C. Morse, the Boston manager, to Hayti, to receive what money he could get cash. Mr. Morse came with the idea that Admiral Luce, commanding the North Atlantic Squadron, had instructions to enforce the payment of the sum demanded, but was soon undeceived.[*4.*] Upon a consultation, held between Mr Morse, Captain Compton and myself, we came to the conclusion that the owners had not acted wisely in presenting a claim which our Government could not endorse; we were unanimous in declaring that the figure of $150.000 for crew and passengers was beyond all reasons, and in its stead we drafted another claim, calling for $225.000 - plus costs in Hayti, a copy of which is herewith annexed, marked no 2. This was on or about the 24th Dec 1888. Mr. Thompson did not seem to find fault with the demand, and only suggested that we should agree upon a lump sum, instead of naming items, to which I objected. At all events, I left Mr. Thompson with the impression that he would present the claim of $225.000 - and costs as deposited by me, or at least not change the figures without giving me a chance of substantiating them, and I had derived this impression from the tacit understanding which existed between Mr. Thompson and myself ever since the beginning of the case, that we should work in unison, for the protection of all interests involved. Great was my surprise, therefore, on learning accidentally that Mr. Thompson had fixed the whole indemnity to be paid at the sum of $120.000., of which sum $50.000 were to be paid cash, and the balance on credit. Upon my[*5.*] query, on what basis this figure had been decided upon, Mr Thompson replyed, dryly: cc that is my affair with Mr Bayard," and when insisting further to know how the Defense was to be paid, Mr. Thompson answered that be would forward the money to the Department of State, to be applied according their own pleasure. While this disposition of Mr. Thompson settles the point that I must look to our Government for an adjustment of my personal claim, it does not settle in my mind, the question whether it was proper and just on the part of our representative to accept from the government of Hayti an indemmity evidently inadequate to meet all contingencies, and entirely out of harmony with the grave facts surrounding the affair of seizure, and with the public sentiment in regard thereto. I ask respectfully the permission to state briefly how I think the whole occurrence should be considered, and in the same light I have always argued it with Mr Thompson: The condemnation of the steamer "Haytian Republic" was a political necessity. Without this seizure the North would have obtained the four votes necessary to elect a President, for the four members of the Constitutional Assembly could not have been landed in Port-au-Prince[*6.*] Prince without such condemnation, and it follows therefore that General Legitime owes his title of President of Hayti exclusively to the S.S. "Haytian Republic," in landing and securing the four rebel deputies. In Hayti, millions of dollars and thousands of lives are sacrificed in the frequent contentions for power; why not then secure it at the cost of a comparatively small indemnity, the payment of which offered even a slight chance of repudiation? But the question of indemnity cannot be settled from a moral point of view only. I hold that, as a matter of equity, the reparation of a deliberate offence should be proportionate to the wrong intended to be inflicted. Independently of the loss of life, which this extraordinary affair resulted in, and which money cannot make good, the following losses & damages, in a strict pecuniary sense, were inflicted upon United States citizens: Value of the S.S. "Haytian Republic" condemned to confiscation $100.000. Amount of Time imposed upon Captain [of Cie] $ 50.000. Damages caused to various business interests, expenses etc etc, elsewhere estimated at 135.000. ------------ $285.000. plus costs in Hayti! The adage: "It is a poor rule that does not work both ways" finds a suitable application in this particular instance: what is fair to take, is fair to give. This leads me to the conclusion that the bill for damages, amounting to $225.000. - and costs, as deposited at the United States Legation, and supported by argument, was reasonable and equitable. Mr. Thompson accepted $120.000 - I do not in the least question the right of our Governments representative to make any settlement he please, nor is it my intention here to defend the interests of the owners of the "Haytian Republic". These gentleman seem to be solicitous about their own position exclusively, caring little what are the consequences to the one who remains face to face with the bitter and fanatical antagonists whom the defence of the "cause célèbre" has created. Since I have done all I could, without fear or favor to obtain a result satisfactory to all interested, and at the same time honorable to our country, in which undertaking I have been impeded, nothing remains for me to do but to take care of myself, and to leave each claimant to look out for himself. Acting, therefore, upon the direction of Minister Thompson, and considering that the Governments of the United States have become responsible to me for the adjustment of my claim in the case of the "Haytian Republic", firstly for having deprived me of the faculty of recovering the same from the Haytian authorities[*8.] and secondly for having rendered it impossible for me to retain the proportion of the money due me, I humbly pray that it may please the Department to remit me, in due course of time, the amounts I am entitled to viz: For the Agency: 5% Commission on $120.000 $6.000 For the Defense: 10% on values at stake ($270.000.-) $27.000 less: received on account, as per statement forwarded this day to owners' agents $2480.04 [*F*] 24.519.96 Balance in my favor $30.519.96 with the reserve, however, that I shall not be debarred from making a claim hereafter for the maximum rate or fees or Commission allowed (see certificate marked No 2) if the foregoing settlement, based upon the minimum rate, be contested. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient and humble servant (signed) John D. Metzger Enclosures: No 1 Copy of Claim filed at the United States Legation, Port-au-Prince. "2 Certificate (Original) of Lawyers and merchants. P.S. (Feby 1890) [*F*] of which $2480.04 $1900.- remained unpaid by the company, they having protested my drafts for that amount. All I have thus received for the defense is $580.04 J. D. M.Jan-7-1889 * Specification of Claim for Crew and Passengers S.S. Haytian Republic Compton (D.E. Commander) $15.000. Smith (1 Officier) 8.000. Olsen 6.000. Malcom (1 Engineer) 2.000 11 Mate 1.500 Steward 1.500 6 Seamen a $500 3.000 5 Firemen , , 500 2.500 2 Engineers , , 750 1.500 1 Cook 750 1 Asst Cook 500 2 Mess Men 500 2 Oilers 1.500 1 Lamp Trimmer 500 1/2 Passengers 5.250 $ 50.000 This is to certify, that these two papers relating to the claim for damages made out by Mr. John D. Metzger have been deposited at this legation about two weeks from Date, January 7, 1889. Witness my hand and seal (signed) John E. W. Thompson seal * A hasty sketch, without pretentions as to being correct or equitable in its details. (singed) John D. MetzgerCopy Copy of the Claim filed at the United States [Legation?] at Port-au-Prince for damages in the case of S.S. Haytian Republic" For the Company in Boston: Damages for breaking up the Company's business for a period of time not less than 3 to 4 months running expenses of the Company in the United States, Wages to Crew, lawyer fees, Commissions, interests, indemnities for Contracts and agreements broken, traveling expenses [FCC?] $140.000 For repairs to Ship New bottom; new copper rendered necessary on account of the worms having attacked the vessel, which has been grounded and strained frequently in the inner harbor of Port-au-Prince thereby losing the protective copper sheets and thus laying the vessel bare to the destructive insects which abound in southern waters. Repairs necessary to Machinery dismounted and tampered with by the haytian garrison, rust, [Injury?] deterioration S C. C. $35.000 to be brought forward $175.000 For the Company's Agency at Port-au-Prince: Expenses in Port-au Prince for the ship, provisions, shipping of laborers, burial of seamen Olson,carriage, boat hire, doctor's visit, consultation & C.C. DEFENSE IN HAYTI, by JOHN D. METZGER, THE COMPANY'S AGENT: Consultations, Legal advice, conducting and attending the Company's business pertaining to the defense during a period of 3 to 4 months, the sacrifice of his Commercial interests in three southern seaports in Hayti; Printing, translating, copying, postage, publications & C.C. : a percentage on the values at stake, to be agreed upon in accordance with haytian law or custom.Extract from the "New York Herald" Saturday January 12, 1889 "Bostonese Cupidity "The owners of the Hatian Republic Keen "for boodle - Minister Thompson's goo[] "Pruning knife. "A Diplomatic "Salt" "After a big indemnity. In my despatch cabled on December 24, telling the story of the surrender, I stated that the indemnity demanded by the owners was $225,000. I did not overestimate the expectations of the thrifty Bostonians. By their greed they have made themselves, and indirectly the United States Government, subjects of sarcastic remarks and ill concealed sneers on the part of the foreign residents and the intelligent Haytians. And not the smallest portion of the blame is at the door of John Metzger, the local agent and attorney of the steamer Haytian Republic. When the Galena and the Yantic steamed into the roadstead the heart of Mr. Metzger beat high. He saw visions of "boodle". The power and the naval dignity of the United States [who] were seemingly at his back. Mr. Morse of Boston, one of the owners of the steamer, disembarked from the Galena with modest and reasonable ideas. He was glad to get his steamer back, and he expected an indemnity. In the course of his conversations with Admiral Luce and Mr. Thompson the extent of Mr. Morse's hopes was fixed by the figures $25,000. If hecould secure $25,000 of the gold coin of the United States he would be quite satified. An interview with his agent, Mr. Metzger, caused a change to come over the spirit of his hopes. Mr Metzger was familiar with Haytian Methods. He at once fixed the indemnity at $225.000. Why not a part of the Earth? "Why not say the whole island of Santo Domingo!" indignantly exclaimed a member of Légitime's cabinet. Captain Compton likewise had his cutting instrument to sharpen. He put himself on record as believing that the Haytian Republic has suffered tangible injury to the extent of $25.000, and that this sum must be paid by the poor labcks in power. For solid, unfaltering nerve Captain Compton runs a close second to agent John Metzger. Admiral Luce went on board the Haytian Republic and made a careful survey. "She can be put in complete order for $1.200," said the level headed veteran of the navy. X X X Minister Thompson embarrassed. I had a long conference with Minister Thompson yesterday. The subject of the indemnity was discussed in all its bearing. Mr. Thompson stated that Mr Bayard had placed the responsibility of fixing the amount on him and that he is in consequence embarrassed by the vacillation of Mr Morse and the persistent greed of Agent Metzger. He has decided to disregard the interested people and their clamor, and will act according to his own judgment. He said that the Legitime government is ready to pay a fair amount and that he has almost decided to call for $80.000, or equivalent to the sum of $1.000 a day for sixty day's detention, $2.000 for repairs to the ship and the remainder for the arrest of the crew and for outraged dignity. He was hovering in his mind between $80.000 and $100.000. There will be no further trouble when the claim is presented.4. Bell St. Providence Jan. 18th 1889. Dear Mr. Douglass: Please accept my thanks for your letter recived today. I am glad you feel an interest in the subject of Humane Education. I am much obliged to you for sending me Mrs. Thompson's address. I had a pleasant little [*692*]visit from Mrs. Greene this week. Hoping that you & Mrs. Douglass are very well, I am, Sincerely yours, Sarah J. Eddy I send you a paper that you may like to see Please do not return it.2154 Arapahoe St., Denver, Jan. 27/89, My dear Douglas: I did not receive an account of your interview with the "Washington Press" until I got "The National Leader" of the 19th, inst.; and, notwithstanding your Son, Frederick, tells me that you were kind enough and thoughtful enough to send me the "Press" Containing the interview. The post office officials here are very careless about Newspapers not regularly sent, unless they be directed to the number and street of the party addressed. Well, just as I took the "Leader" and was about to put on my specks to read [read], I was so jostled, at the moment, as to jab the left prong of my specks into the corner [*691*][*2*] of my left eye, and immediately it became thoroughly bloodshotten; and, not until now have I been able to read or write. And even now, it is so be-clouded, that I can scarcely proceed with this writing. Well, I have read that interview, carefully and thoughtfully; and, in my humble judgment, it will go down in history as one of the most memorable interviews of your eventful life. Nothing short of your peculiar aptitude, your great experience, observation and long train of discussions, could have enable you, as no other American, to make such a statement & answers as you did in that interview. I think it will be conceded that you touched upon, in a Statemanlike manner, forcible and convincing, every vital point in the now prominent "Southern question". In this one effort, asidefrom the innumerable former ones, you have done an immense service to the Cause for which you have labored more than half a Century. As one, I feel it to be a duty, that your old time compeers, stand firmly by you, to, at least hold you on your feet while you are able to speak to the Nation on the subject of the wrongs and wrights of the Colored man in the Country. You have closely and carefully studied the whole "Southern question" in all its possible phases and bearings, and you are therefore, and uniquely better qualified to speak more intelligently upon it, than, certainly, any other Colored man in the country. What you said in that interview is timely, opportunely, as it will have a Salutary effect upon the incoming Administration. But enough with one eclipsed eye. Regards to all, & best wishes for yourself, Ever and truly, H.O. Wagoner.Office of WM. J. McPHERSON, Attorney and Counselor at Law, Rooms 119 & 120 Reynolds' Arcade. Rochester, N. Y., January 28, 1889. Hon. Frederick Douglass, Cedar Hill, Anacostia, D.C. My dear Sir: Your favor of date 10. January inst. received and welcomed. I thank you for your kind - I would state - flattering expression concerning my article in relation to the companions of our dear old friend John Brown. I wish I had the story of the interview between you and John Brown at the old stone quarry south of Chambersburgh as you so kindly openly related it to me when you was last at my office. If I had that or the main part of it before me, I would write the second & promised article. I would treat more particular[ly?] Mr. Brown and his motives and intention and would be a moral if not a political defence of the old hero. I saw or rather met our young friend Mr. Lee at the lunch rom on Saturday evening. He stated that he received a letter from you last week, & in which you were pleased to make kind inquiries concerning me. With yours of the 10. inst. I received four drafts for $28 - balance in full of all a/c. to date. You will find receipt therefor enclosed herewith. I think that if I had had the matter of the removal of Lynn in hand, he would have been removed or we would have known the reason why not. I think she is a tough lot to deal with & Mr Lynn is simply her simple henchman. With thanks for your kind expressions, I am Yours truly, Wm. J. McPherson [*695*]Rochester, N. Y., Jan 5 1889 Received of Hon Frederick Douglass, draft Twenty eight Dollars, in Full balance account to date -- No. $28.00 WM. J. McPherson 695 A Burnett & Wright, Printers, 38 Exchange St.Coneggar Villa, Bridport. Jan. 31. 1889 Dear Mr. Douglas. I had intended, before now, to write to thank you for your very kind and interesting note of Dec. 10. My wife, I need not say, was greatly interested in what you told us of Mrs. [P???]. I shall be very glad when she too is strong enough to be moved. and to enjoy a little locomotion; but, at present, it would be out of the question: though we think that she is certainly stronger than when I last wrote. But we must let "patience have its perfect work." When you wrote, Dec. 10, you had not quite recovered from the fatigue of your election campaign, but I hope that you have [*693*]now regained your usual vigors. We are glad to have the newspaper you sent us, containing the report of the interviewer who speaks of you so respectfully -- half a century ago you could little have expected to be looked up to as "The Sage of Cedar Hill". I read the whole account to my wife. I send you an Inquirer newspaper, with a paragraph from your letter to me. It was in type a fortnight ago; but was crowded out by more pressing matter. You will see in the same paper (p. 55) a passing reference, which interested me, to my dear brother Philip. Also an account of a lecture by my learned nephew, Prof. Estlin Carpenter, on the origin of the gospels; but I shall not be unkind if you are content to take the gospels as they are, with their word of the glad tidings, and of the Ministry of the holiest of men, without troubling yourself much as to their origin -- which is a matter of speculation. I think I told you my resolve to devote the sum, which I used to subscribe to the Temperance Mission, to the Coloured people (which Miss Impey wants to support), to the Tuskegee School, which seems to be doing so much good -- of the kind especially needed. Miss Impey still sends me her Anti-caste. I read in her last "Supplement," that "upon the statute-books of almost every Southern State are laws making marriage between colored and white persons a criminal offence, punishable by enormous fines, or long terms of penal servitude in the notorious chain gangs, or in the mines." Do you know whether any such laws have been enforced, since the passage of the Constitutional Amendment?Could they not now be appealed against, as unconstitutional? Were the "whites" as well as the "blacks" [both] liable to their penalties? I was sorry also to read that in Philadelphia "no colored man, however wealthy, would be registered in the principal hotels." Have you ever put this to the proof of late years? --- but probably you generally go to a friend's house in that city. We shall be very glad of a line - if it is only a post-card - to say how you are; especially glad if you can upon yourself as entirely rested. We are having a very mild winter here --- spring flowers blossoming, birds singing, &c., but I see that there has been a snow storm in Florida: so the winter seems to have deserted us, and gone in double force to you! Please to tell us, too, how Mrs. Douglass is, and her venerable mother. With our united kindest remembrances, Believe me ever yours, faithfully & affly, Russell L. CarpenterThe Cross, St Neots, Hunts. Feb. 5th / 89- My dear Friend, If I planned forever, I could not ensure this friendly missive full of good wishes, reaching you on the morning of your birthday - but arrive when it will a day or two before or after the 14th February. I know it will be welcome to "the Sage of Cedar Hill" - for it [*694*] [*Many thanks Mr. "Pres" - grand | brother & all!*]will assure him that the old friend of forty years' standing remains unchanged in her friendship - and prays that dear Frederick may have a very happy Birthday: may live, in this life, to see as many Birthdays as he may desire and as our Heavenly Father sees it best to give him - and when this earthly life is over, may this dear friend live forever in "the happy land" where pain and sorrow come not - and where partings are unknown - This time 40 years ago, how busy "Sister Eliza" & I were preparing for our voyage across the Atlantic - and 42 years ago how dear Tom. Arthur King, "Friend Smith" (as you used to call him!) Eliza & I were flying about to Anti Slavery meetings, with that grand, grandest of orators, "F.D" as Ms. Richardson always called you! Well! time does fly - but can it be42 years since then? A third little girl presented herself on the 1st of this month, at Granville St. Glasgow - and the dear mother & baby were reported as doing well - Another has been close at home of late - not liking to leave his dear little wife - so it is long since I saw him. The "curious cutting" I send you is from a queer paper - which reached me, by post yesterday - who from I know not - the marking was all there when it came! Best blessings be yours - as always dear Frederick, Your faithful friend, Julia G. Crofts[*WASHINGTON REC'D FEB 6 9 P.M. 7*] Arrived Little Rock at ten am Febry - All right. I am among my friends Shall speak here tomorrow Eve - Some excitement - somewhat worn by two days and two nights travel. Shall have much to tell when I come home - The field is new - and full of interests- Love to all the dear ones at the Cedars - F. D.[*LITTLE ROCK ARK. FEB 4 5 PM 99*] [*WASH D. C. TRANSIT FEB 6 10 PM 89*] [*2*] UNITED STATES POSTAL CARDONE CENT NOTHING BUT THE ADDRESS TO BE ON THIS SIDE. Mrs. Frederick Douglass, Cedar Hill. Anacostia D.C. [*470*]917 East Capitol street, Washington, D.C., February 8, 1889. Hon Frederick Douglass, Anacostia, D.C., Cedar Hill. My Dear Friend: I have been wanting to see you for sometime to consult you on a matter of importance to me and mine: Mr. Hillyer is breaking down very fast; he has a bad cough, and comes home from office every night perfectly exhausted, so that he says himself, "if I do'nt get better soon, I shall have to give up work." If I could take his place I would gladly do it, but we have not said anything about it fearing to lose his place and thus be worse off than now. I thought that I should be able to help him when he got old and feeble, but, you know how it is, if a woman has a husband he is expected to maintain the family as long as he lives. Then the idea comes in that even if I could take his place equally well, I suppose that I should receive about one half as much. Then, another matter has been troubling me a great deal and I have looked at it in every light; I want to get a place in Washington for my sister; If it were not for this unhappy hatred which Mr. Hillyer bears to her, we could offer her a home with us, and it would be a delight to me to have her with us, but that can't be accomplished without the softening of hard and unbending feelings, which only seem to grow worse and worse as time goes on. I have thought if Mr. Douglass has to the power in his hands to 1 [*2976*]offer me a position under him, I will ask him to give it to my sister, who is eminently fitted for it by carefullness, accuracy, faithfulness and good judgment; then if she is not with us, she will be in the city where we can see and be with her at times. It has been a great grief to me that I have not been able to offer her a home when she has been in distress, and if I could do this for her I should be more grateful to you than even if you could give me such a position. Then I would look at my over-worked, exhausted, and faithfully working husband and think that I has no right to think of any one else but him; so the warfare has gone on. Then the children have been a great motive for me to keep me at home; I see so much of the under current of evil in the world that I feel the need of a mother's constant watchfulness over her growing children, and think that is the greatest duty that God has placed in my hands --to keep them pure and undefiled from the world. If my sister were only here during the day, I should feel almost as as content as if I were with them, and if my knowledge of short-hand and type-writing were taken into the account, I could probably command a higher position and more salary than my sister Ellen. I enclose a little poem, to show her handwriting, which I think is better adapted to registering than mine is. Any place that requires carefulness, accuracy, sound judgment and thoughtful care and precision, she could fill remarkably well. You will say, "What does the dear child want of me? She wants me to turn into one of the genii of old, to perform miracles, to give her two places --one for herself and one for her sister --to [*2976*]change the heart of stone and give the heart of flesh." I am confiding to you the tangle that I am in, with the hope that there may be found some way to unravel it. I trust to your judgment and goodness of heart that you will not make an unwise use of the knowledge which I have confided to you. Your true friend, AMEY M. HILLYER. P.S. Please return poem, and will you also kindly bring home Grace's "Andersen's Fairy Tales." A.M.H. [*Feb. 8, 1889*] [*2nd of 2*]N. Sprague, Real Estate, Loan and Insurance Agent, Room 8, 524 10th St., N. W., Cor. Off. Washington, D.C., February 11 1889 Mrs. Douglass, Dear Madam:- Will you please inform me if Father will be home the first part of this week for it is very important that I should see him as soon as he returnes. Inclosed please find a letter I recieved this morning from Mr. Van Voorhis of Rochester Very respectfully, N. Sprague. [*696*]Tuesday, February 12, 1889. Mr. Charles A. Jackson of New York, called upon me and introduced Mr. Haustedt of New York, who is represented to be an agent of General Hyppolite, and also Mr. Elie of Cape Haytien, whom he introduced as having full power from General Hyppolite to represent his government in every way. Mr. Jackson stated that the Party of the North in Hayti had been advised by cable, - and he supposed that the State Department had also been so advised, - of the recognition [*2973*]recognition of Legitime's Government by France and Great Britain, and that such recognition was undoubtedly due to the effort of the Comte des Sesmaisons, through whom Legitime had been negotiating for assistance from foreign governments, and to whom he undoubtedly made promise to give them the harbor of [Mole?] St. Nicolas. [Mole?] St. Nicolas, Mr. Jackson said, was a very important point not only on account of its proximity to Cuba, being the landing place of the cable, but also because it possesses a magnificent harbor and being a very important point in the event of the opening of the inter-oceanic inter-oceanic canal at Panama or elsewhere. He said that Mr. Elie was authorized to negotiate with this government on behalf of Hyppolite, and that the Party of the North looked to the United States rather than to any European country for support. I said we had been very fully advised of what was passing in Hayti and of the reports which were current at Cape Haytien in regard to the designs of the Comte des Sesmaisons. Mr. Elie then said that there was a number of facts which had occurred there with which he thought the Department ought to be made acquainted; and he mentioned [*2973*]mentioned the arrival at Mole St. Nicolas of the Haytien vessel "Grande Riviere", flying the French flag and carrying the Chancellor of the French Legation. This visit, he said, was merely intended to enable the Comte des Sesmaisons to get information of what was passing in that part of the country. I said that I was quite familiar with that event, it being reported to us by Mon. Goutier, our Consul at Cape Haytien, who was very active and intelligent in keeping us well informed. Mon. Haustedt said something about shipping arms to Hayti, and that there was not real neutrality upon the part of this GovernmentGovernment if Mr. Preston and Legitime's agents were able to prevent the shipping of arms to the Northern portion of Hayti. I said that under the laws of the United States there was nothing to prevent any indvidual from selling arms as merchandise; that the neutrality laws of the United States forbid the fitting out of an armed expedition, i.e. arming a vessel, and that it seemed to me that the distinction was a very clear one. Mr. Jackson said that he perfectly understood that, and that if the Legitime people attempted to fit out an armed expedition in this country they would apply to [*2973*]to the courts promptly, I said that the courts were always open for any application of that sort. Mr.Jackson then said that the object of their visit had been accomplished, which was simply to let the department know that Mr.Elie was here and had power to negotiate with the United States in case the United States felt disposed to open such negotiations, but that if the policy of "hands off" was to continue he supposed there was nothing to be said at present. I told him that I would mention to the Secretary the fact of their visit, but that I had no reason to suppose that this Government would would for the present at least adopt any other policy than that which we had strictly pursued, namely, a policy of absolute neutrality between the two contending factions in Hayti, and that we should await events, and when either party obtained a de facto control of the whole country we should then recognize them as being the government of that country. As to the question of recognizing belligerency that was a different matter as to which we were not yet prepared to take any action. (signed) G.L. Rives Department of State, Washington, January 13, 1891. Office of the Chief Clerk. The foregoing is a true copy of the original paper deposited in this office. Sevellon A Brown [*2973*]Cedar Hill. Anacostia, D.C. February 25. 1889. Dear Mrs. Green,Mr. R Dear Sir I do sympathize with any one in such straits as you are now, but you have asked of me what I cannot feel I ought to do, what it would be very unwise for any one to do knowing nothing of the business management of your paper. Besides, if it is such a paper, and conducted upon such principles as commend it to and makes it important to earnest men and men of affairs, they will certainly advance you the money. If it is not such a paper, fifty dollars can only postpone its present unfortunate condition. I speak this frankly, for in such a crisis, if ever, one wants certainly Yours Very Truly, Helen Douglass. [*379*]Mowbray Cottage Feb 27 - 89 My dear Friend, It is a long time since I received your last good letter, I really expect I am about forgotten, but in this last letter of your, you wrote, that you were not writing to me so soon after receiving my letter "to provoke an early reply" [which] of course - you meant me to understand that I was not to write to you under some months - if at all I expect many would take it that way and not write any more - but I do not think you intended thus to break up our correspondence. I have not written to you very often for some years, so you hint. Was scarcely needed. this is only the 2nd letter since last [*697*]April -- I suppose you will be at home when this reaches Cedar Hill. The events of next week will draw you to Washington. You mentioned how you were so much from home lecturing up and down the country. I am glad you have the vigor needed, but it made me feel sorry, that at your age, and with your means you yet feel obliged to continue the hard life. There is so much of interest in books, and work for your people, around home, that would occupy you so pleasantly and profitabally. I shall be very glad to learn that you have entirely given up speaking unless for something out of the every day occurrence. We had a most mild winter in fact, no winter for us - until a few weeks ago when which was very interesting to hear - I hope in truth, he is as successful as he thinks he is - he seemed much improved, in conversation & manner, he is indeed a fine man to pick himself up as he has done. If he had started life with fixed & firm principles of right & truth - how well he would have done. We got nicely posted all round. Well Clevelands reign is about ended, and Harrison will come to the front, I shall be glad for the country to have a more respectable man at the helm. I suppose for yourself you would not take office, but perhaps for the sake of your sons you may, so I hope you will get just what you would like best .. Your friend, E. Peirson [*Feb 27, 1889*]know of myself and of my own life. My inner life - for that we must live for ourselves. and one does not want a commotion around one all the time. Some weeks ago, I was much astonished to see Nathan Sprague step out of a hack at our door, he made a pleasant visit and seemed to enjoy himself with us, he told us many things, some about you, that he was surprised we had not known of but the Tenn-weekly Tribune give scant & far between news of you. time was, when you used to send me a paper, when in it you were particularly noticed, but some years have gone by since you did this - Nathan had much to tell us of his own success and prosperity. All snow fell sufficient for sleighing; which gave us all much pleasure. The weather was not really cold until quite recently, when the Ther. began to go below zero, and last Sundy was 18 below, but it soon warmed up & by noon was some 12 above. Our road is full of snow & some drifts but excellent sleighing - We go out a good deal, I never feel the cold less, it does not seem to trouble me, and I am exceedingly well - I was quite sorry that dear Frank wrote to you respecting the 'civil service' I did not known of his intention, but I believe he had not the remotest idea of troubling you to help him to obtain a situation. only wanted your opinion about the merits of that kind of employment - or the chance of his allowing a situation - I gave[* E. Peirson *] my opinion which is - that I think it, a dire calamity for any young man to start life in any position under Government. They seem to become unfitted for any other kind of work, & become miserable unhappy hangers on, waiting & seeking for office when they are out-, he answered like the dear good boy he is- 'I shall not try the C. S. examination if thou desires not' and there the matter ended - I have had two visits in Buffalo lately or at least one lately, the other a fortnight before Xmas - both very enjoyable- I suppose your house is full of company as usual You must have changed a good deal, to enjoy it thus constantly - I like company very much, but could not have it always - I could not[GAZLAY BROTHERS, JOE PRINTERS 157 & 159 WILLIAM STREET. TELEPHONE, NASSAU, 555.] NEW YORK, March 18th 1889 114 Taylor St, Brooklyn NY Hon F Douglas, Dear Sir, I am right glad the time has come when a white man (may I say respectably?) deems it important to seek the aid of a friend a shade darker than himself. Several years ago through the kindness of Chas Sumner and Horace Greely I obtained a place as government store keeper and held it until a little more than one year ago, -- when I received indirectly a hint, that my resignation would be accepted. I am now an applicant for the position of Government Storekeeper Superintendent at NY My application is indorsed by some of the first men in New York and Brooklyn. I want to get a half a dozen letters to go with my application to the Collector (soon as he is appointed). Three lines from you is all I ask. You know that I am a Republican and that my pen and tongue and what influence I have- I devote to it because it is the cause of humanity and liberty. Always your friend George W, Bungays Chas Summer said in substance to the Collector that I was the only man in the [country] at that time for whom he asked a favor, [*702*]Syracuse March 11 1889 [*1890?*] Hon Fredrick Douglass Honored Sir A little while ago I asked if you would not contribute a volume or so of some works such as you see fit to send to and old disabled soldier I gave all the best years of any life to a war of justice and right and God knows the sufferings I have passed through since And as for all my twenty five years of suffering in the same course if called upon I would do the same again My Republicanism I felt at the front and would give my life to uphold your people And to day crippled and near blind as I am I would give my life to put your people [*745*] [*of six of your people not one could send a Book to an old Disabled Soldier*]where they should be. And I sometimes blame them for not rising and stand together for their rights I was a stern Democrat before I enlisted I never knew what it was to want I had a good trade But I enlisted in mid winter 1862 in two years was pitched home an Idiot and for our seven years was under the dotors care. And to day, a little exitement puts me out And I can just see enough to stumble around I gave all this to benefit your people and you could not even contribute some little volume to comfort one who gave all he had to help your people why was it because I was only a private to the Officers you could give a whol Library Yours W H Healy 202 Wolf St Syracuse per S H NYPetersburg VA March 1st 1889. Hon Frederick Douglass Dear Sir: I have your favor of 28th February. A copy of my answer to Langston's notice will be sent to you today. You will see that in my answer I used several of your letters about Langston and his political methods. If I can get a copy of his notice of contest, I will send you that also. He has not undertaken to prove half of what he charged and has utterly failed to prove a single charge. His depositions close tomorrow. I am glad to know that you thoroughly understand him, his career, and his methods. I will be very much obliged to you for any assistance you can give me in this contest. Yours respectfully Edw. C. Venable [*699*]Copy. New York, 5 March 1889. To the Hon. James G. Blaine, Secretary of State of the United States of America. Sir: The undersigned, on behalf of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Hayti, hereby desires to renew to the Government of the United States of America the assurances of the amity of his government and to call attention to the still prevailing condition of affairs in the Republic. The usurpatory government established by General Legitime in Port au Prince by his unlawful seizure [*53*] [* 2974*]seizure of the vessels of war of the Republic, then lying in the harbour of Port au Prince, notwithstanding its boasts, has made no headway against the Provisional Government, and exists today only by reason of its possession of these stolen ships. The circumstances of the usurpation, from an American point of view, have been fully detailed to your department heretofore by Mr. Thompson, the American Minister at Port au Prince, in his letter of October 16th 1888. The conspiracy, which at that time first showed its armed head, has changed its name and style, but remains the same usurpatory combination, opposed entirely to the genius genius of the free republican institutions of the Haytian people. From that people it has no willing support - and so it depends on foreign intrigue. It has distinctly come to the knowledge of the provisional Government that Legitime is seeking to barter favor in the way of trade and territorial concessions to European Governments in exchange for their recognition of his factional cabal as the lawful government of the Republic. Such actions meant the condemnation of all true lovers of the Republic. Haiti is an American Republic, and must so remain. Its harbors must not be the property of European [*2974*]European nations, who would use them as basis for opposition to all American ideas in time of peace, and in time of war as formidable naval stations for supplies. The cabal of Legitime is pro= =nouncedly hostile to the United States, and as pronouncedly under French domination. They affect to treat the United States with contempt. Mr. Preston, who formerly represented the Republic of Haiti at Washington during the administration of President Salomon, and who since the downfall of Salomon and the success of the revolution against him, represents nobody, but has chosen to espouse the cause of General Legitime, was reported in in the public press, as having said, snapping his fingers contemptuously. I do not care that for the recognition of the United States, we have recognition from France and England. In fact, every action of Legitime's cabal has been in opposition to the interests of the American people and the policy of the American Government from the time of James Monroe. In marked contradistinction to this has been the policy of the provisional government headed by President Hyppolite. While desiring the recognition, it merits, at the hands of all foreign governments, it seeks, and has sought to preserve the autonomy of [*2974*]of the Haytian people, free from foreign control and interference and untrammelled by foreign intrigue. And so again renewing its solemn protest, communicated to the United States' government by my letter of January 3, 1889, against the usurpatory proceedings of the cabal of General Legitime; the Provisional Government established by the lawfully expressed will of the free people of Haiti, asks Recognition from the great Republic, whose continuance and prosperity is the hope of all free people of the world, and whose mighty power is the bulwark of all constitutional liberty. Believe me, Hon. Mr. Secretary, your your most respectful and humble servant J. Haustedt. Agent gl. for the Provisional Government of Hayti at New York. Department of State, Washington, January 15, 1891. Office of the Chief Clerk. The foregoing is a true copy of a paper on file in this Department. Sevellon A. Brown [*2974*]New Haven, Conn, March 6, '89. My dear Douglass: As I explained to you during our ride on that end Sunday afternoon of the 24th ultimo, circumstances impel me to seek a position in the foreign service for which I am, at my time of life and in view of so many years of experience, better fitted than for any thing else. And to this end I do feel most keenly the need of your powerful aid. With your support and coöperation, I shall succeed; without them, I shall probably fail. I can but count on you. My first preference is for the mission to Hayti. I know that there may be objections to me for that place on account of my connexion with that Govt. as its consular [*930*]representative so many years in N.Y. But I have no enemies in that country and I think that every body there would be glad to see me back in my old place And I know also that the number of clamoring applicants for it, it large. But I need go no further on this point, as you know all the essential facts. In view of the situation in regard to this mission, permit me to urge upon you the suggestion of Senator O. H. Platt of my state. You may remember that his suggestion was that you should call on Mr. Blaine or Mr. Harrison or both of them (to whom", said Senator Platt, "Mr Douglass will always have ready access") , and ascertain whether it will be the policy of the administration to open to us places in the Diplomatic service other than Hayti and Liberia. If so, I can seek one of the new places, if Hayti goes outside of me as I am afraid it will. Now, my dear Douglass, I am aware of the fact that you must be almost overwhelmed by applications similar to the present one. But I cannot believe that you will do otherwise than lend a willing ear to Your old friend, E. D. Bassett I am sure that our mutual friend Ex Senator Bruce will coöperate with you freely and heartily in any way that you may suggest to him for my interests.Washington D.C. March 7th 1889 Honorable Benjamin Harrison. President of the United States. Sir: I beg to make application for the Office of Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia. When in your judgement has arrived to make local appointments I earnestly ask your favourable consideration of this my application. It may be known to you that in recognition of my long and active service in the cause of freedom and my unswerving devotion to the principles of the Republican party, I was appointed by the late lamented President Garfield, to the Office of Recorder and that I was removed from said office [by] to make room for a colored Democrat by your predecessor honorable Grover Cleveland. Inflexible Inflexible D I I am dear Sir [*2963*][*1*] [*1889 Mr 7*] Honorable Benjamin Harrison. President of the United States. Sir: Allow me to make application to you for the Office of Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia. When, in your judgement, the proper time shall arrive to deal with the local appointments I most respectfully solicit your favorable consideration of this my application. It may be known to you that I have once occupied the office now saught. In recognition of my long and active service in the cause of freedom, my unwavering support of the Republican party and my relation to the recently emancited and enfranchised class at the South the lamented President Garfield appointed me Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia. I was removed from this office solely because of my fidelity and devotion to the Republican party and to make a place for a colored deserter from the Republican camp. [*7*] [*2964*]Honorable Benjamin Harrison President of the United States. Sir: Allow me to make application for the office of Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia. When in your judgement the proper time has arrived to with this this subject I currently solicit your favorable consideration of this my application. It may be known to you that have once occupied and am therefore acquainted with its duties. In recognition of my long and active service in the cause freedom before and since the war, my inflexible support of the Republican party and my relation to the recently emancipated and enfranchised race My dear Mr Mr Honorable [*2964*]Washington D.C. March 7th 1889 Honorable Benjamin Harrison President of the U. States Sir: I beg to make application for the office of Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia. When in your judgement the time has arrived to make local appointments, I earnestly solicit your favorable consideration of this my application. The office is one to which I was appointed by the late lamented President Garfield in recognition of my long years of active service in the cause of freedom. I and I am dear My dear sir [*2964*]EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE INAUGURAL CEREMONIES, March 11, 1889. Mr. Fredr. Douglass SIR: It affords us pleasure to herewith enclose check to your order for $50# upon the Columbia National Bank of this city; the amount thereof being in full return of your subscription to the guarantee fund of the Inaugural Ceremonies on March 4, 1889. We are instructed by the Executive Committee to thank you for the financial aid, which contributed so much to the success of our plans, and to advise you that the Executive Committee "Resolved, That the surplus fund of this Committee shall be transferred to the "Commissioners of the District of Columbia and their successors in office, to be "loaned by them on good real estate security in the District at the best attainable "rates of interest, and to be held by them intact as a fund to be known as the "Centennial Inaugural Relief Fund for the following purposes, viz: "The annual interest to be applied in their discretion to the purchase of fuel "and clothing for the poor of the District of Columbia." A detailed report of the organization and action fo the Inaugural Committees will be furnished you by the Chairman as soon as same can be prepared. A.T. Britton Chairman Executive Committee Inaugural Ceremonies. [Justin S. Morrill] Chairman Finance Committee 700Home Meadville Pa March 11 1889. Dear Mr Douglass A moment since my eye accidentally rested upon the enclosed which you can glance over at your leisure if you so feel inclined. Did you get the newspaper article, or rather the newspaper containing the century article of Carpenter upon Lincoln's first nomination? I sent a copy to you at Little Rock, and another at Annacostia. My friends at Harrisburg, and others, including Ex. Sec. War Lincoln, Speaker Boyer, Senator Delamater, and Mr Andrews the Chairman of our Repub. State Committee have resolved upon asking for me a Judicial appointment of some kind, and written letters to this effect. If you think I deserve any such recognition for life service in our cause, and you can consistently do so, I wish you would write, and enclose to me here, at your earliest convenience [*701*]a letter addressed to the President, I will enclose to you by next mail; perhaps in this, a copy of Mr Lincoln's. I am my dear sir, Yours Faithfully S. Newton Pettis Hon . Fred . Douglass Annacostia. I tried to see you at the Inauguration but failed, I am glad that you attended the Ball. P.Chicago Feb 27th 1899 60 Lake Shore Drive To The President Sir: It gives me great pleasure to unite with those who will commend to you for a Judicial appointment, the Honorable S. Newton Pettis of Penna. Judge Pettis has been so long known as one of the most alert, active, intelligent & indefatigable working members of the Republican party that little need to be said respecting that part of his case. His intellectual qualifications and experience, and his character in long regard unite in qualifying him highly for any such office, and I earnestly hope that the public service may have the benefit [*698*]of his appointment I am with great Respect Your Obdt Srvt Robt T. Lincoln. I wish I had time to copy Genl. Reeder's letter, son of Ex Governor Reeder of Kansas fame under Buchanan, and, Mr Boyers, the present Speaker of the House of (Penna) Representatives, but I have not. Peters.D'r Sir, Excuse me; my time has been so completely enveloped, I scarcely had time to think about anything outside of Inaugural festivities. I am glad to say I'm about to get down to a normal state once more --- The No of lots on S. Str NW. 86, 87, 88, 89. Ignore 132 --- I want for them $1.25, if you find a purchasor that means business & will sell to net me, at $1.15, Yours truly Jas t Bradford Balt Mch 15th/89 [*703*]UNION LEAGUE CLUB CHICAGO March 22nd. 1889 Hon, Fredrick Douglass Washington D.C. My Dear Sir The committee of Citizens of Chicago in charge of the celebration in this city of the approaching Centennial Anniversary of the formal inauguration of the Government, under the Constitution, and the administration of the oath of office to the first President of the nation, are determined to make the occasion worthy the sublime subject and the reputation of the municipality. they represent. In accordance with this spirit arangements are being rapidly constructed for holding Monster Mass Meetings in the large halls of the city during the day, to be followed [*704*]UNION LEAGUE CLUB CHICAGO. by a banquet at the Union League Club & other entertainment in the evening. By direction of the Committee I write to invite you to become the guest of our people upon this occasion, to address one of the large meetings in the afternoon & to respond to a toast at the banquet in the evening. The only consideration which I am directed to assert in this connection is that the committee reserves the privilege of bearing your expenses. An early & favorable response will be highly appreciated by the Committee Yours Truly J. Frank Aldrich SecretaryOffice of R. C. O. Benjamin, Atty-at-Law, Los Angeles, Cal. March, 22d, 1889. Hon. Frederick Douglass Dear Sir:- : Accompanying this letter find a copy of my application and endorsements to the President of the United States for the Mission of United States Consul to Antigua, West Indies. Whatever aid you may render me in obtaining the position will be highly appreciated. by, Yours Very Respectfully, R. C. O. Benjamin A VOICE FROM CALIFORNIA Application and Endorsements OF R. C. O. BENJAMIN, ESQ. THE DISTINGUISHED AND POPULAR COLORED LAWYER, AUTHOR AND JOURNALIST FOR THE POSITION OF U.S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies APPLICATION TO HONORABLE BENJAMIN HARRISON PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES WASHINGTON, D. C. Honored Sir: I hereby take the liberty of making an application for the positition of United States Consul to Antiqua, West Indies, under the present administration. I am 32 years of age, am a lawyer and journalist, a resident of Los Angeles, California, of sound health and body, and a possessor of a Collegiate education. Have been an active member of the Republican party for eleven years, and have always done all that could honorably be done to promote its success. Accompanying this application please find the endorsements I have received from a number of private gentlemen and prominent officials, together with what I consider my qualifications for the position. I am very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. C. O. Benjamin EXPLANATORY. The Signatures to these letters of endorsement were written by the different signers themselves, but are now printed. First, because they can be more readily understood than if written, and, second, because the printed names tend to make the letters less cumbersome. FROM THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES, CAL. MARCH ...........1889. TO HONORABLE BENJAMIN HARRISON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES Dear Sir: I regard Mr. R. C. O. BENJAMIN as one of the ablest representatives of his race, a scholar and a gentleman of whom the whole people of California are justly proud, I heartily commend him to your consideration for the mission of’ U. S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies. HENRY T. HAZARD. FROM THE CITY OFFICIALS OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES. We fully and cheerfully endorse and recommend Mr. Benjamin for the position of U. S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies. Charles McFarland, City Attorney. Freeman G. Teed, City Clerk. Will E. Dunn, Assistant City Attorney. Frank E. Lopez, City Auditor, Joseph Chambers, Clerk Police Court. Len J. Thompson, City Tax Collector. N. B. Walker, Clerk City Justice Court. Fred Eaton, City Engineer. Fred C. Smith, City Constable. W. E. Morford, Supt. of Streets. J. L. Rogers, Deputy City Constable. John Fischer, City Assessor. FROM THE MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES HONORABLE BENJAMIN HARRISON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, WASHINGTON, D. C. Dear Sir: The undersigned members of the City Council, of Los Angeles City, respectfully request the appointment of Mr. R. C. O. BENJAMIN to the position of U. S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies Signed: NAMES WARDS REPRESENTED H. V. Van Dusen First Geo. P. McLain Second W. H. Bonsall Third J. Frankenfield Fourth A. C. Shafer Fifth A. N. Hamilton Sixth James T. Brown Seventh Theodore Summerland Eighth R. E. Wirsching Ninth FROM THE REPUBLICAN CENTRAL COMMITTEE LOS ANGELES, March ............ 1889 TO THE PRESIDENT: In recognizing such men as R. C. O. BENJAMIN, the party strengthens and builds itself, and we therefore earnestly request the appointment of Mr. Benjamin as U.S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies. C. N. Earl First Ward John Horner " " J. M. Davies Second Ward E. Hand " " P. A. Stanton Third Ward R. D. Ward " " R. H. Hewitt Fourth Ward W. S. Moore " " Horace Hiller Fifth Ward J. M. Carter " " C. E. Wallin Sixth Ward Joseph Watkins " " O. W. Baldwin Seventh Ward T. N. Gilbert " " Geo. R. Flint Eighth Ward L. J. Llewellyn " " N. H. Morris Ninth Ward H. C. McClure " " Members of the Republican Central Committee.FROM THE COUNTY OFFICIALS OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY MARCH,.....1889. TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: We take very great pleasure in commending to you for the mission of U.S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies, Mr. R.C. O. BEN- JAMIN, a distinguished colored lawyer of our County. He has justly the name of an honorable man in all respects; his ability, his attainments, his promise is equal to any other man of his color in the country. He is esteemed in California by both races, and we are satisfied that he is fitted for the position. Frank P. Kelley, District Attorney C. H. Dunsmoor, County Clerk D. W. Fields, Public Administrator Robert S. Platt, Tax Collector Jess Hardesty, Deputy Dist. Attorney A. M. Thornton, Under Sheriff H. W. Edelman, Clerk, Superior Court Dept. 1 J. C. Wray, Deputy Sheriff F. E. Lowrey, Deputy County Clerk C. J. Fox, Official Reporter Superior Court Dept. 1 P. M. Darcy, County Jailor C. C. Mc Comas, Dept'y. Dist. Attorney J. C. Cline, Deputy Sheriff Henry Henderson, Official Reporter Superior Court Dept. 2 F. B. Fanning, Deputy County Clerk R. R. Tanner, Dept'y. Dist. Attorney, Santa Monica M. J. Ashmore, Clerk Superior Court Dept. 2 F. H. Mc Callister, Official Reporter Superior Court Dept. 4 C. G. Keys, Clerk Superior Court Dept. 4 H. S. Clements, Township Constable J. H. Mellette, Clerk Township Justice Court A. G. Mappa, Deputy County Clerk Wm. M. Squires, Deputy Sheriff Downey B. M. Marble, Dept'y Dist. Attorney A. B. Whitney, Office Clerk to County ClerkFrom The Judges Of The Superior Court And Township Justices March.... 1889 We take special pleasure in endorsing Mr. R. C. O. Benjamin for the position of Consul to Antiqua, West Indies. Wm. A. Cheney, Judge, Department No. 1. W. A. Clark, " " " 2. J. W. McKinley, " " " 6. W. P. Wade, " " " 3. Lucien Shaw, " " " 5. W. C Lockwood, Judge City Court H. C. Austin, Police Judge Theodore Savage, Township Justice, Los Angeles City P. A. V. Van Doren, Township Justice, Pasadena P. E. King, Justice of the Peace. Lost Angeles Township M. T. Owens, Police JudgeFROM THE MEMBERS OF THE BAR OF LOS ANGELES CITY AND SOUTHERN CALIF. TO HONORABLE BENJAMIN HARRISON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, WASHINGTON, D. C. Dear Sir: The undersigned Members of the Bar of California, beg to commend to your favorable attention, R. C. O. BENJAMIN, Esq., the only colored member of the bar of our State. He is amongst the most scholarly, refined and accomplished of his race. Mr. Benjamin is an aspirant for the position of U.S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies. We cordially and respectfully urge his appointment. NAME OFFICE Finlayson and Finlayson 8 and 9 Downey Blk Aubrey Barham 123 N. Spring St. Theo. J. Dupuy 17 Allen Blk Geo. P. Phibbs 45 Lan Franco Bldg C. C. Stephens 28 N. Spring St. C. W. Eldridge 287 " " Horace Appell 5 and 6 Amestoy Bldg W. T. Williams 1 and 2 Ducummon Blk Thos. B. Brown 93 Temple Blk Samuel Hamilton 2 and 3 Wilcox Blk R.A. Ling 9 N. Main St. Antonio Orfila 11 W. First St. John Robarts 12 and 13 Wilcox Blk Daniel J. Lewis 13 University Bank Bldg F. M. Porter 7 Allen Blk W. W. Stewart 5 and 16 Allen Blk J. B Dunlap 25 Temple Blk A .J. King 48 Lan franco Bldg T. J. Carran 45 " " " F. R. Willis 35 " " " C. W. Pendelton 17 Law Bldg Cole and Cole 210 N. Main St. W. J. Foley 54 Downey Blk Geo, W. Glowner 48 Temple Blk Le Compte Davis Lan Franco Bldg W. W. Holcomb 11 Temple St. J. B. de las Cassas 28 S. Spring St. B. W. Deihl 14 and 15 University Bank Bldg J. H. Blanchard Temple Blk M. W. Whaling 8 N. Spring St. J. W. Swanwick 89 Temple Blk R. R. Tanner Santa Monica J. C. Morgan " " Frederick McGregor 134 N. Main St., Los Angeles E. E. Powers 83 1/2 Temple Blk " " Bradner W. Lee 11 Baker Blk " " R. E. Mason Downey Blk " " Thomas Rutledge Allen Blk " " FROM THE ORO FINO CLUB FIRST TO VOTE FIRST TO RATIFY FIRST TO INAUGURATE TO HONORABLE BENJAMIN HARRISON PRESIDENT, WASHINGTON, D.C. Dear Sir: At a meeting of the Oro Fino Club held Monday night, March 11th 1889, the following resolutions were unanimously adpopted. Resolved, that we note with pleasure the action taken by R. C. O. Benjamin in his advocacy of Republicanism, and his indefatiguable work in the up-building of his race, and we should view his appointment to a Federal position as highly satisfactory to the white citizens of Southern California, and as just and merited reward for his services to the party and his eminent fitness. We therefore request and earnestly ask the appointment of Mr. Benjamin to the position of the U. S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies. By order of the Club. WALTER S. MOORE, President. B. FEHNEMANN Secretary.FROM THE PEOPLE TO HONORABLE BENJAMIN HARRISON PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES WASHINGTON D. C. We the undersigned citizens of California, unanimously concur in the resolutions and. endorsements recommending to you the appointment of R. C. O. Benjamin as U.S. Consul to Antiqua, West Indies, and Join in the request, Respectfully, NAME OCCUPATION RESIDENCE Augustus A Montafio Ex-County Auditor 40 Buena Vista St. Jno. W. Vaughn Druggist 310 W. First St. Fletcher V. Taylor Hotelman N. Los Angeles St. Sidney Holman Farmer Alhambra Wm. H. Sutton Farmer Kurts St. K. D. Wise Physician 407 S. Main St. Edwin R. Tingley Carpenter Pico Heigths S. Roland Jackson Liveryman 126 Requena St. S. J. Thornburg Mechanic 445 Chicago Ave, Jas. M. Traher Farmer Compton Sherman Powell Music Dealer 71 N. Workman St. W. B. Cole Bus Driver Beaudry Ave. Joaquin Valdez Shoemaker 421 Buena Vista St. John L. Thurman Farmer El Monte W. Filey Farmer Pomona Albert O. Adams Searcher of Records 303 E. Fourth St, Chas. J. Green Cooper 704 Macy St. William B. Palmer Police Officer Vignes St. William Cory Smith Searcher of Records Beaudry Ave. Fred J. Snyder Butcher 1659 S. Main David Woods 15 Vine St. B. R. Neighbors Farmer Downey Niles Pease Merchant 621 S. Hill Robert J. Payne Laborer W. Seventh St, Geo. F. Houston Reporter Fifth St. Wm. H. Huffman Brakeman 21 Elmira St. Joseph C. Oliver Teacher Fort St Manoah Miles Jeweler 50 Bloom St, W. H. Cook Farmer Pomona Phillip L. Buddinger Liveryman Fifth St. James H. Evans Coachman 235 S. Hill St. Martin Halvey Laborer 19 Aliso St. John B. Hale Expressman 97 E. Pico St. Samuel A. McCurdy Teamster Guadalupe St. Andrew A. Toland Druggists Pico Heights James C. Yourd Bricklayer 1 Hamilton St, Wm. H. Carr Postal Clerk 232 N. Main St. Peter Johnson Hotel Keeper 114 E. Second St, Henry L. Brown. Tinsmith New High St. M. T. Mason Lithographer Pasadena Chas. E. Berry Collector 39 N. Spring St. C. B. Warner Engineer Santa Ana Roswell Jones Capitalist Second St. Wilson Goldsmith Farmer N. Alameda St. B. F. Coulter, Jr. Salesman 115 N. Grand Ave. Henry L. Jordan Broker Seventh and Vernon Ave, J. W. Alridge Expressman 6 So. Los Angeles St.FROM THE PEOPLE NAME OCCUPATION RESIDENGE John W. Wise Painter 34 Banning St. G. W. Parker Plasterer Pasadena Samuel Stratton Contractor 319 W. Pearl John Sullivan Grocer 38 Schuyler St. William Nesbit Plumber 18 S. Hill August Larson Carpenter 124 Laurel St. J. D. Sepulveda Clerk 132 Sansevain St. Nat. T. Coe Laborer 37 N. Main St. Thomas Thacker Gunsmith 402 S. Fort Frank H. Powell Contractor 11 Victor Ave. W. P. Tibbett Real Estate Santa Monica John W. McGarvin Butcher 226 S. Spring Theodore G. Koeberle Civil Engineer 128 S. Chestnut St. Rich H. Lacy Merchant 1014 Downey Ave. Wm. H. Henderson Teacher 11 Court Street Alexander J. Young Carpenter tN. Hill Street Theo. Wright Liveryman 21 San Pedro Street Lyman L. Sykes Mason 22 N. Vine Street Geo. H. Kimball Merchant 204 Los Angeles St. J. R. Meek Mechanic Pasadena Geo. L. C. Hill Bricklayer 112 Rose St. John Green Notary Public 804 Court St. William Austin Truckman R. R. Street Joseph M. Warrell Cashier 122 E. Seventh St. Maurice Poulter Copyist 17 E. Fifth St. G. F. Whithworth Physician 515 Downey Ave. Charles Foster Capitalist Winston St. Amel Rabe Speculator Leland Hotel Will Jay Mathews Journalist “The Lincoln "' James Clearwater Housemover S. Hayes St. J, A. McCusker Real Estate 30 S. Main St. Jose Aguello Farmer Lemon Nelson Tate Coachman Reservoir Tract Andrew Thompson Laborer County Hospital Robert J. Cope Merchant 20 Mayo St. William Abbott Cabinet Maker 322 1/2 New High St. James R. Ireland Bricklayer 312 Montreal St. R. T. Murray Farmer Santa Ana Michael J. Hines Painter 21 E. Second St. Frederick W. Thompson R. R. Agent 327 Temple St. Pliny E. Weaver Clerk 38 N. Hayes St. Roscoe T. Lincoln Paperhanger 215 N. Daly St. Charles F. Rutan Reporter 305 N. Pearl St. Morris Russell Expressman 30 York St. John Shelton Farmer Azusa James Bell Farmer Pico Heights Charles H. Easton Salesman 300 Hansen St. Frank Heil Salesman 551 E. First St. J. F. Burnett Farmer Orange Charles Martin Shoemaker County Hospital Jesse Yarnell Printer West 9th St. Ed R. Brown Jeweler Monrovia Jacob C. Wimmer Detective 20 Wilmington St. Juan Domingo Laborer 320 Aliso St. P. Fitzwilliam Broker Temple and Olive Henry Fick Carpenter 14 Lafayette St. Silas A. Austin Physician 206 Bellevue Ave. Otis S. Kent Grocer 248 S. Hill St. Grant A. Adams Bricklayer Michigan Ave. Benjamin F. Patterson Farmer Glendale G. R. Castle Carpenter Pico Heights Anton Jenick Barber 720 Temple St. John C. Lanning Butcher 563 East First St. Charles A. Fisher Barber 21S. Main St. H. Watkins Merchant 21S. Hancock St. Ellsworth F. Richards Plumber 124 E. Pico St. Parmel A. Jackson Carpenter 207 N. Fort Stephen M. Irving Carpenter 840 Temple St. Francis O. Wilkerson Builder 23 Sansevain St. Robert M. Burgiss Merchant 245 E. First. St. Charles H. Matthay Merchant 14 Temperance St. W. F. Edgar Physician 48 Washington St.FROM THE PEOPLE NAME OCCUPATION RESIDENCE W.C Greenwood Stockraiser Long Beach Maurice B. Reid Stonemason Pasadena Arthur P. Church Mechanic 611 Grand Ave. Miner Mead Gardner Peru St. O.H. Stanton Merchant Alhambra E.F. Jackson Cigar Maker 123 E. Fifth St. J. A. Wood Minister Pasadena Fred Linde Jeweler Main and Temple James N. Gregory Cigar Maker 29 Brent St. George Curtis Jeweler 152 Wall St. James Chapman Machinist Alpine St. Geo. P. McLain Bill Poster 40 Philadelphia St. J. L. Carillo Carpenter Pico Heights Calvin D. Weatherman Police Officer Slater T. Smith Lecturer 105 Martin St. Peter A. Short Tailor 111 Rose St. Fred A. Salisbury Coal Dealer Main St. William Lytle Price Journalist 218 Temple St. Jesse Myers Confectioner 417 S. Spring Captain Edwin Blennerhassett 221 Philadelphia St. Walter C. McQuillen Book - keeper 254 S. Fort St. Lester G. Loomis Police Officer Abraham L. Forsyth Evangelist 30 Elmira St. N. Lindenfeld Notary Public Court and Main Mariano Gutierrez Capitalist Verdugo Sackett Cornell Journalist 94 Pennsylvania Ave.FROM PROMINENT COLORED CITIZENS We would look upon the appointment of Mr. R. C. O. Benjamin, as U.S. i Consul to Antiqua, West Indies, as a deserved and well earned reward to one j who has never “tired tn the harness,” but who has always been the champion of our rights and Republican principles ; therefore we most heartily endorse him to the position to which he aspires. OCCUPATION RESIDENCE Tilghman Brown Minister 23734 S. Spring St. G. W. Hawkins Furniture Dealer 20 West Pine St, Kinney Brown Blacksmith Station D, Temple St, C. H. Anderson Minister East Los Angeles Scipio Thompson Janitor Georgia St. i Henry Washington Blacksmith Davis and Rose St. i O. Stallsworth Dentist 19 Rose St. i M. A. Majors Physician Aliso St. | J. J. Neimore Shoemaker Los Angeles and First Sts. Jacob Soares Janitor 70 Amelia St, C. H. Twine Janitor 11 S. Los Angeles St, | George Warner Janitor 19 Vine St. Joseph Green Hotel Keeper Alvine House Thomas E. Gray Barber 46 Sepulveda St. | Worthington L,. Goldsboro Barber 110 Lazard St, Horatio Marteen Merchant Buena Vista St, Garrett Poe Expressman 15 W. Laurel St, John Hall Farmer Electric Tract Albert Muse Hackman Pasadena J. W. Coleman Laborer 500 New Jersey St. William S. Sampson Clerk Grand Central Hotel | John Boyd Cook 235 Marchesault St, Elmer L. Ward Laborer 238 Buena Vista St. John Weeks Cook East Second St. Anson Brunson Carpenter Booth St. Robert Brunson Carpenter Booth St. William Jukes Cook 15 Boyd St. Dean Champion General Utility 21 N. Los Angeles St. Sam Haskins Steward Boyle Heights George Redding Laborer 102 S. Grand Ave. James Sutton Laborer 259 Upper Main St. Jose Condi Rancher 224 S. Spring St. Cyrus Vena Carpenter Booth St. W. D. Anderson Cook 30 Hewitt St. Daniel Eastman Porter S. P. Depot Yancy Denton Farmer Lemon Geo, El. Davis Tailor i 211 Castelar St. Jackson Johns Teacher 8 Georgia St. Peter-Tigg Brick Mason tor Davies St, H. H. Martin Teacher 20 W. Pine St. Walter Jones Hotel Keeper Long Beach Wm. T. Rudd Janitor Clinton Block Dick Brown Bill Poster 2374 S. Spring St. J. B. Ramsay Contractor 341 Myrtle Ave. Henry Owens Livery-man 235 S. Spring St. Robert C. Owens Livery-man 235 S. Spring St. Prominent Colored Citizens Name Occupation Residence S.S. Mosby Porter 118 1/2 Banning St. Lewis Peppers Special Police 231 Center St. March Leonard Carpenter Buena Vista St. Irwin Boyd Painter 39 Vine St. Elijah Lane Laborer Lafayette St. Joseph Harris Waiter Nadeau House Doe Fisher Bricklayer 19 Hamilton St. Wm. H. Lewis Laundryman 27 Sepulveda St. Charles Councello Cook Commercial St. Evans Brown Janitor Winston and Wall Sts. J. C. Carter Insurance Agent Riverside James Wright Waiter Koster's Restaurant Russell Slaten Waiter 706 E. Second St. Presie Kemp Blacksmith 37 Earl St. W. H. Young Plasterer 37 Earl St. Glaster Baylor Teamster 19 Rose St. Carl Hodge Steward 119 Requena St. Henry Ballenger Plasterer 896 Court St. Charley Williams Janitor 37 Sansevain St. Isaac H. Layton Painter 37 Vine St. John Thornton Waiter 36 Banning St. H. Robertson Janitor 34 Hewitt St. George Prince Janitor Pasadena Andrew Jackson Waiter 36 Banning St. Samuel Jackson Laborer 130 Weil St. L.C. Wyatt Contractor 130 Weil St. Servey Johnson Waiter 19 Rose St. Booker Hancock Laborer 43 Georgia St. George Fuller Waiter Nadeau Hotel Joseph W. Gaston Waiter 29 Vine St. Frank Forrester Waiter 29 Vine St. Copy Of Personal Letter From Ex-Governor John Mansfield, Hon. Henry T. Gage, G. Wiley Wells, And Others To Senator Stanford And Representative Vandever Lost Angeles Cal., March... 1889 TO Honorable Leland Stanford, U. S. Senator from California, and Gen. W. A. Vandever, Representative Sixth Congressional District, California. Gentlemen: We commend to your favorable attention, R. C. O. Benjamin Esq. of Los Angeles, who is an applicant for the U. S. Consulship to Antiqua, West Indies We ask that your aid and influence be given him in securing the position. The citizens of Los Angeles and vicinity give him their hearty endorsement, a copy of which please find enclosed. Thanking you for your joint and individual effort in his behalf, we subscribe ourselves, Yours respectfully, Henry T. Gage G. Wiley Wells R. H. F. Variel R. B. Carpenter Geo. M. Holton John MansfieldWichita Kansas. Mar. 26th 1889 Hon. Frederick Douglass Washington D.C. Sir: You will pardon the liberty I take in approacing you with the subject of this note. My last published poem, the "Rape of Florida" I dedicated to Bishop H.M. Turner; but now, having a new poem, "Child of the Mists" ready for the press; it is my desire to dedicate it to some Negro whose name alone stands for the race. You, sir are the only such man on Earth. Your splendid intellect, your exalted character, and the fine courage displayed in your incomparable defense of your people, in the sum and fullness of a noble life have given you to history, secure in your place - as the greatest of negroes. In contemplating such character, Sir, I feel inspired to write, and therefore ask the privelige of dedicating my poem to you [*705*]2 I truly hope you will give the matter consideration, and benefit our race by associating your name with the works of [one] struggling, obscure bard. Until now, sad to say; my own people have not grown very much interested in my works. Hoping to receive a favorable reply; I am your obedient humble servnt Albery A. Whitman 119 Emporia Ave.Honeoye N.Y. Mar.30.89 My Dear Friends After receiving notice of my appointment as Post Master at this office I was very much surprise and grieved to learn that you had visited the Asst. PM. General and asked to have my appointment canceled I could hardly believe that Mrs Douglass or any member of her family would say I was not worthy or capable of performing the duties of the office My petition is signed by nearly every Republican patron of this office and I would be pleased to have you look it over. It is true there are a few Republican names on the list you endorsed but more than 80 are Democrats while an additional number are not patrons of the office [*708*][*2*] Some of my opponents have even taken the trouble to post upon my buildings White Cap Notices stating that if I did not withdraw my name as an applicant I would be burned out. The very active part I took in the canvas of last year led me to expect opposition from Democrats but certainly not from my Republican friends. I think my services of nearly 4 years defending my country from the assaults of the slave-holders of the South and my incarceration of a year in the Prison hells of Rebeldom - in an attempt to escape from which I was tracked by the same blood hounds whose fangs had lacerated and stripped the flesh from the limbs of escaping slaves entitles me to some consideration at the hands of Mr. Douglas and I must respectfully ask that he will not aid the Democrats of this locality (who have withdrawn their patronage and trade from me simply because I was a Republican worker and[*3*] worked hard and contributed more than I was really able for the success of our ticket) in defeating me and leaving the office at the "Democratic headquarters of the town of Richmond to be used for their sole benefit. I believe that these lines will convince you of the justice of my claims as I fully realize the power of your opposition which I sincerely hope will be withdrawn. Carry my regards to Mrs Pitts and her family please inform them that Miss Nancy Briggs and Pitts Short both of whom were sick of Pneumonia are out of danger I remain your obedient servant Ira N. Deyo To Hon. and Mrs. Frederick Douglass Washington DCEstablished 1837. Westchester Fire Insurance Co. Geo. R. Crawford, Prest. Samuel M. Purdy, Vice Prest. 27 & 29 Pine Street New York. Silas D. Gifford, Treas. John L. Underhill, Secy. Agency at Canandaigua N.Y. Mar 30th 1889 My Dear Sir Since our last correspondence I learn from Hon John Raines our Representative from this District, that the position that I was working for viz: Deputy Fifth Auditor of the Treasury was filled by an appointment of Mr Cleveland, of a Republican who was confirmed just prior to the 4th of March consequently for that position my chances are gone. Mr Raines is also our State Senator for this District consequently his time is very much engrossed with the duties of that position and cannot give the time personally to matters of this character, that he would be able to give, were he at present acting Representative in Congress. In view of these facts and at the suggestion of Mr Raines I address you to ask the following favor. There being still 5 Deputy Auditorships to be disposed of viz, 1,2,3,4,&6, 707Established 1837. Westchester Fire Insurance Co. Geo. R. Crawford, Prest Samuel M. Purdy, Vice Prest. Silas D. Gifford, Treas. John Q. Underhill, Secy. 27 & 29 Pine Street New York. Agency at______________________________188__ would you kindly call upon the Secretary of the Treasury and make a personal request of him. that one of the Deputy Auditorships shall be held open until Mr Raines shall be heard from as to the filling of the same, which one I am not particular, but from your own observation and information, the one presenting the best chances of success. I can furnish plenty of backing, as soon as I know the objective point to steer for If by any chance there is no show to get any one of the five remaining Deputy Auditorships, will you please look through the Interior Dept. for some chance for me or anything else you have in mind If after investigation you find a chance for me to strike, let me know at once by Telegraph to Canandaigua via Telephone to Honeoye NY at my Expense so that I may get my papers in without delay I trust that I may be of assistance to you in the near future. Please remember me to Mrs Douglass Mrs & Miss Pitts Yours Very Truly A. J. Gilbert Hon Fredrick Douglas Washington DC [*Over*]PS. notwithstanding Mr Raines letter I prefer a position in the Treasury Dept, if there is an opening for me to a position that will pay $2000, or better Yours Hastily; A. J. Gilber [*Inclosed March 30,1889 - Raines to Douglass*]State of New York, Senate Chamber. Albany, March 30 1889 JOHN RAINES. TWENTY-EIGHTH DISTRICT. Hon Frederick Douglass My dear Sir: I write this to be enclosed with a letter from A J Gilbert Esq. and wish to say - That in view of the fact that I have application before the Secty of the Treasury for some appointments in which I have considerable interest, it might be better to look for a position in the Interior Department - I can place back of Mr Gilbert the indorsement of Senator Hiscock, Vice Pres. Morton if the way is clear for them, and will be glad to do all I can for Gilbert -- Very Respectly Your Obedt Svt J. Raines