United Sates Land Office Little Rock, Ark. June 2, 1891 Hon Frederic Douglass Porteau Prince, Hayti– My dear friend The report is current that you intend to resign your position as Minister Resident during the summer. As I have not been able to trace it to any authoritative source, I thought best to write you, satisfied you would correctly inform me. I have watched your career as Minister with much interest, and not withstanding the effort in certain directions to detract, from the best information I can obtain from those in a position to know, you have here, as elsewhere been equal to the occasion, and the "strained relation" said to exist between yourself and the administration had no existence in fact. Now my life long friend, who first stimulated me to enter public life, may I again solicit your influence, and good offices in obtaining this, the cap sheaf of my ambition – [*973*]When ever the vacancy occurs - I have as you may know first class endorsements, now on file in the State department, filed previous to your appointment, which I suppose are still within reach - No one that I could apply to for assistance, would be better acquainted with my checkered career, and horrid experience in business, and in politics, than yourself, and I feel that I can safely rely upon the character of your commendation You are kindly remembered here, your visit is often a topic of the evening chat. Tender my respects to Mrs Douglass, and write me --- Very truly your friend --- M. W. Gibbson U. S. Land Office, transmits in of involving the of Sec. Tp., R. Reference is had to leffer of , 189 680 b 96 m 318 Ash. N. E. Washington D.C. June, 4, 1891 Minister Douglass' Leave of Absence. The acting secretary of state has granted Hon. Frederick Douglass, the United States minister to Hayti, leave of absence with permission to visit the United States for the customary period of sixty days. It is expected that Mr. Douglass will arrive in Washington within a short time. An officer of the State Department said last night that the department was not discontented nor dissatisfied with Mr. Douglass' services at the post to which he has been assigned. Mr. Douglass, it is stated, when in Washington the last time, expressed himself as conscious of his growing age, and said that he sometimes felt inclined to throw off the cares of official life, but it is nevertheless expected that his return to this country is only temporary and that he will go back to Hayti. The State Department has received no intimation to the contrary. [?] Douglass, "Better late than never." I have on numerous occasions been upon the point of sending you personally a few lines, but have considered as an excuse for my neglect that what I wrote father would answer for both, for I usually exhausted the news in his letters. We are glad to know that you passed safely through your siege of acclimating fever, or whatever else it might have been, and that you are now in good condition for your ocean voyage homeward bound. We have heard only a few days ago that a revolution was brewing in Port au Prince. I trust that is not so for they are nuisances, and then too [*2727*]you might be cheated out of your summer vacation. We are having it pretty warm at present, but it is not unpleasant. I want to ask you one favor, and that is that you purchase for me one of those Haytian baskets like the one you brought last year when you came home. I like the shape because it is odd. Whatever the price, I'll pay when you arrive. Love to Father, with best wishes for your continued health, Love faithfully, truly yours, Chas. R. Douglass This leaves us all well. I received a letter from father a day or two ago, but it was of rather ancient date still it was thankfully rec'd as I had not heard from him directly for some time.Freedmen's Hospital, Washington, D.C. June 5th 1891. Hon. Frederick Douglass. My Dear Sir:- Your favor was received two days ago. I was very much pleased to hear from you. Within the past few months you have been in my mind a good deal. Your health and the success attending your official efforts are the main things I have thought of. I gather from your letter that you are posted in regard to the attempts that have been made by those who would like to succeed you, to belittle the administration of your office by you. While I knew unfriendly criticism [*974*]2 Freedmen's Hospital, Washington, D.C., 189_ could not do you any possible harm, for those making them attach more importance to themselves than the thinking unprejudiced public attaches to them, nevertheless I have been annoyed and vexed. I hate to see the display of jealousy and the ever ready desire to pass unfavorable criticism upon our best men by those who should be proud of what our representative men have accomplished. Your critics have moral obliquities, they are morally blind. They have no foundation of their own to build upon, and they seek to climb into notoriety and prominence upon the shoulders of3 Freedmen's Hospital, Washington, D.C., 189_ the veterans who have borne the brunt of many battles, so that these self-constituted critics and leaders might have an existence. Your letter impressed me seriously. I hope Hayti will never violate her Constitution and allow any foreign power to gain a foothold in her territory. I shall keep your letter for my personal perusal. I hope soon to see you back here. At your time of life I think you jeopardize too much by being where you are. Among those who desire the mission to Hayti is Fortune. One of his friends applied4 Freedmen's Hospital Washington, D.C. 189_ To Mr. Lynch with a view of securing his influence and endorsement. I am pleased to note Mr. L. gave him quite a severe rebuke. However I will not dwell upon the subject. We will discuss the parvenu when we meet. The papers announce that you will soon be here. I wish you and Mrs. Douglass a safe return. Yours Very Truly C B PurvisLewis H. Douglass, Real Estate Broker, 934 F Street N. W., (Room 11.) Washington, D. C., June 6, 1891 Dear Father: I am glad to know that you are to be home soon. I don't believe in a hot climate My experience in South Carolina and Georgia was enough for me. You speak as though you felt as if you were under fire. From what has been given out by the State Department we learn that they have no complaint to make and further that your duties have been satisfactorily performed. I got this from Port Prince last week and this week the Star make substantially the same announcement through its columns. Bruce and Langston are saying fond things of you. Of course they have a motive other than to promote your interests. There is no use being blind to that. I shall do what I can to encourage them to say as much as possible our way and put it on record in the Pilot as long as I control its columns. Politics is a game of cards and every card has some value and it won't do to throw away any card they all have a value. Then that there is a little [*976*]rivalry between Bruce and Lynch as to influence with the administration and I would not be surprised to hear of a break up between them. Charley and I have talked over the delegate matter a little and have concluded that it is a little too soon to let it be known that you are a candidate. John F. Cook told me about a month ago that he did not wish to go and that he would support any good man outside the Chase or Carson gang. Bruce aspires to the place and I know that he is quietly laying pipe to get it. Well there is an element in this district known as the old citizen element that is a good deal provoked at the prominence in affairs pertaining to the district reached by Bruce. Mr. Cook is the great Mogul of that element. Charley and I are just now in favor with him and to my mind it appears that through him and his friends we can reach the good people of the District who are opposed to Bruce. The administration will probably favor Bruce, that is if that President sees fit to go before the National Convention. The President is very friendly to the ex-Senator and seeks his opinion on matters connected with affairs of colored people. I don't fear the President's power[*2*] though if we can get the element I spoke of above to unite on you. The question is how to go about it. If the struggle should be narrowed to between you and Bruce I feel pretty certain from the feeling in the District as shown by the dislike to his appointment as school trustee, that you would win. Chase may be depended upon to try to be sent as delegate I don't know what Carson will do. He has a position under the District government which pays him four dollars a day. John F. Cook has just been appointed assessor at $2500 a year mainly through Mr. Bruce's influence. Mr. Cook did not like the prominence of Mr. Bruce in the colored militia matter and his friends were quite emphatic in expressing their dislike of what they thought arrogance on the part of Mr. Bruce. Mr. Bruce has tried to pacify the old citizen element by pushing Cook for assessor. He has not succeeded. Cook takes the place but in his talks with me he speaks in no amiable tone about the President's sending every colored man to Bruce and Lynch for endorsement before he will give them any consideration. You will see by the Pilot of May 30 that Charley has turned Fortune's guns back upon him, by publishing an extract from Fortune's paper which[*June 6, 1891 2 of 2*] denounces Blaine as traitor and Harrison as his catspaw. How would it do for you to write an article, which I could use as editorial on the duty of the colored people of this District to send a man to the nominating convention who would represent the progress &c &c of our people here? No mention need be made by name of the delegates of the last convention. I was thinking of doing it myself but I know that you write more effectively. I am still tied upon the jury which makes my work very difficult. I am writing the leaders for the Pilot and other editorial matters. I hope the paper will succeed. We have had it quite hot for two or three days. It has cooled off some to-day. I have been requested to forward you the inclosed note. We are all well and look forward to your coming home. As the Pilot is sent to you every week you will see what Langston has been saying Remember me to Mrs. Douglass. Your son, Lewis917 East Capitol st., Washington, D.C., June 7, 1891. My Dear Friend: I was very glad to receive your letter of May 5, and to hear more definitely of Mrs. Douglass' health. I knew from Cedar Hill somewhat of the state of affairs and did not feel surprised that I did not hear from you, although, of course, I felt the loss. Mr. Hillyer received Mrs. Douglass' letter while I was away at Hampton; he bids me thank Mrs. Douglass and say that he hopes to have the opportunity to answer it in person soon. He is very glad to hear from you, but feels that he has no claim or right to expect you to spend so much of your valuable time upon us; that it would be too much of a tax upon you. Although I, too, feel highly honored by yours and Mrs. Douglass' friendship, yet I know that a true friend is not so common that we need or can afford to lightly regard or cast off one of the least of them. True friends always make me feel rich and proud, and thankful, and I forget to think of myself at all. Mr. Hillyer nor I had heard of the failure to secure the Mole St. Nicholas as a naval station for the United States until after the arrival of your letter; I then saw a reference to it in the Washington Post, but soon afterward I saw that you had a leave of absence and were coming home, but that you were in high esteem with the State Department. I think it was in a New York paper that I saw that Rear Admiral Gherardi was in this country reporting that you had made the above-mentioned failure, and that the Haytiens were not pleased with you and wanted a white man. I think it must be very hard to submit to this enforced Christianity--when you are reviled to revile not again, and when 1 [*3007*]men speak evil of your good not to have the power to explain, and tell the truth, but one of the worst features of it is that I am afraid it will keep you away from home longer than you purposed to stay, as you say you are not one to retire under fire. Mr. Hillyer says he hopes you will not resign but stay, if you can, to the end of this administration. A friend of mine from Hampton Normal Institute, Miss Vincentine Booth, who has lately been with me, asked me one day, "Mr. Douglass is only great politically, is he?" I had never viewed you in that light, and the question gave me a shock; she then added, "Is he a philanthropsit?" " I have only heard of him politically." She seemed to that that if you were a philanthropist that you would be interested in Hampton. She persuaded me to go down to the school for a week and when I went into the library building and saw the portrait of Robert Purvis, and none of you I felt a great lack--that the large number of boys and girls who are being educated there should know and love and honor you and look up to you as their leader. I asked her if you had been there and she said "Yes, but he didn't seem much interested". I couldn't believe it as I was so much interested in everything concerning the school. I was particularly struck with the freedom of action allowed, as much as could be in such a large institution, the individuality that was brought out, the self-respecting habits that were being formed, each one seemed to be held responsible for his actions and public reproof was thought to harden the heart, and therefore each boy and girl was put on his honor unless he boldly disobeyed known rules of the school, when public reproof was administered; as it was one Sunday night to two who had deliberately walked out of the grounds contrary to the well-known rules of the institution. Gen. Armstrong appeared like one of the patriarchs of old, as he [* 3007 *]gathered his two hundred Indians, and four hundred colored boys and girls about him in the chapel of Virginia Hall and told them of his going away on the morrow for the Hiwayiian Islands, his native home, of the grand mountains, the magnificent scenery, how colassal men looked there among the mountains, of the peculiar appearance of the horizon as one ascended the mountains, the water seeming to rise up to meet the sky line and you seemingly in a cup-like hollow, as Virgil said, when I described it to him, he had heard a minister use the metaphor to describe the spiritual condition--the higher we get up the lower we appear to be. I suppose you will think, if you do not say so, I knew that years ago, but I didn't, and as I love the grand and sublime in nature and in the spiritual world it impressed me deeply. He spoke of the vast fortunes that had been made there through the cultivation of sugar and the fact that the Islands had had no tax to pay, while other sugar countries had had to pay a tax three cents; this was stopped now by the Mc. Kinley bill. The problem that was confronting them now was the danger to society of the two classes, the rich, luxurious, gay, non-workers, and the poor, hungry desperate class--my mind instantly reverted to the times of the French Revolution, and I was glad that he called the rich, the gay, [the] the pleasure-seekers, the danger class. He said that those who were rich and not obliged to work with their hands should work for the good of those who worked for them physically, helping them to rise, and in no other way could the great problem be solved. He is a lightning like talker, and to one who is not used to his style he is hard to follow, especially when he talks for an hour and a half, yet the boys and girls kept the most profound stillness, occasionally interrupted by an appreciative 3 [*3007*]laugh. he is very much in sympathy with them, as will be seen by a little incident that occurred while I was there. The students have been in the habit of playing a game called Dan Tucker, which has some sort of a dancing figure or step in it, and of dancing the Virginia reel, at their social gatherings, and some of the very orthodox teachers, as some one expressed it, the old maids, disapproved it, thought there was too much "personal contact," and after discussing it several times in council, they voted it down, so the General told them Sunday night that he was going to preach the funeral sermon of one of their dear friends-- his and theirs, Dan Tucker; that he loved to dance, and he knew that they did and among those who were sufficiently refined and cultivated and self-controlled it was all right to dance, but some of their race had not yet reached the point where it would do them no harm, and for the sake of their weaker brothers they and we must practice self-denial, and give it up, but he intimated that their amusements should be more attended to during the next year than they had been done during the past. Their was such a sympathy with them, and such a Christian spirit shown that I felt drawn to him immediately, as I did the first time I heard him pray such a family prayer in their midst. When I saw these men and women working all day at blacksmithing, at the engines, the wheelwrith's shop, the carpenter's shop, in the laundry, the tailor's shop, and at the various industries established there, and afterwards saw the same ones in the night school working hard at their lessons, and giving their undivided attention to their enthusiastic, energetic teachers, I thought they were worthy of all praise and that they must succeed. All the colored youth have to work their way through school, and also have to keep up to a certain standard or they are dropped. The Indians are educated by the Government, which seems to me to 4 [*3007*]be a great mistake. One thing more especially interested me and that was the singing of the plantation melodies by the colored students. It was perfect melody. I never heard anything that impressed me more. It was like the waves of the sea - one grand harmonious sound, all tones blended into one, rising and swelling with grand volume and dying away almost to a whisper--you hushed your breath lest, you should lose a tone. They finally ended with chanting the Lord's Prayer, which left me in the seventh heaven of delight, and I didn't want any one to speak a word to me for sometime afterwards. We had just been listening to a dry-as-dust preacher, not their regular chaplain, and I had almost gotten asleep, my friend, Miss Booth, having a very versatile mind had saved herself awake by counting the number of times he folded and unfolded his hands, one hundred and twenty, and the congregation had all filed out except a few visitors when the Gen. asked the leader of the chor to sing some of these melodies, which repaid us for the previous infliction. This school must do a great deal of good in another way besides educating them intellectually they "go a missionarying", as it is called there. Every Sunday morning a carriage drives up to the door or some of them take a boat and go out to the poor- house, or to some of the poor cabins and read the bible, talk a little, and sing the plantation songs, which these poor people join in singing with them. I went out to the poor house by the way of the creek, in a row boat, and was selfishly repaid by seeing the saintly old cripple, whose face shone with the light from the kingdom of heaven, so that it was the most attractive face in the room, spite of his distorted body, supported by two crutches. 5 [*3007*] I was in hopes that you and especially Mrs. Douglass would be able to hear and make acquaintance with a very dear friend of mine, who is to give two lectures at the Glen Echo Chatauqua, of which I suppose you know something, on Egyptology, on the 29th and 30th of June. I would so like to have you meet him, for he is a grand man, and is called a famous Egyptologist, second to none but Miss Edwards. He had a little desk in an alcove up a winding stair in the Public Library in Boston, for years, so that he could gain access to such books as bore on the subject that he was investigating. When I last saw him there I did not know but that he was turning into a Casubon, but he seems to be going to benefit the world by his researches. Virgil is planning to do some tramping during this vacation, through Va., in company with a schoolmate. It remains to be seen whether it will be carried out; to me it seems very unattractive; I should feel like an outcast from the world, but if their legs hold good they may see considerable of interest in the country, and follow out Tolstoi's idea of getting nearer the realities of life. Grace acted housekeeper while I was away, and didn't like it much, as she thinks that keeping in the house in sunny weather is the least desirable thing in the world. She is putting in her time splendidly at playing, and is getting large and rosy and strong; she is now devouring Uncle Tom's Cabin, which she doesn't like because she likes to have things turn out pleasantly. She said she didn't want Eliza to be brought back; she wanted her to get clear after she had tried so hard. If you want to have the heart-ache, read "Darkest England". It makes you feel, as Miss Booth said, "What can we do about it?" as if something must be done by every body who professed to love his neighbor, to change 6 [*3007*]such a state of things. May 15th I attended a meeting in the A. M. E. Church, called to discuss the Race Problem. I reported the speeches and send you a copy of the address of ex-senator Bruce, which I think will interest you. A very interesting paper was read by Rev. Stewart, also by a lady teacher, Mrs. Cooper, of the colored high school. The object of the meeting was to raise funds to endow a chair in Howard University. I am afraid they didn't accomplish the object as it was a stormy evening and comparatively few attended. It was a very interesting meeting and the music was excellent. I thought that woman was gaining ground here also, as outside of a so-called reform organization I had not heard a colored woman speak on a colored platform. She was very scholarly, and spoke in a very pleasing manner. I do not see the Cedar Hill friends as often as I would like, but occasionally they call over and sometimes I have had the pleasure of entertaining dear Mrs. Pitts, while the other ladies went down town. Hoping to see you both soon, and with heartsful of love from us all, I remain Your friend, AMEY M. HILLYER. Hon. Frederick Douglass, Port au Prince, Hayti. 7 [*3007*]Cedar Hill, Anacostia, D.C. June 8, 1891. My dear Mr. Douglass: Your good letter was thankfully received. We were grieved to learn Mrs. Douglass had so distressing an illness, but rejoice that she is better. I presume this is our last letter and we have not time to write very fully as the steamer sails tomorrow and this must go in this mornings mail. The papers of last week gave us an account of the revolution and the summary manner in which it was suppressed, [*975*] when you get to New York won't you telegraph to us? I am sorry to send such a looking letter but I couldn't help it. You cannot expect anything very neat from a poisoned hand. Hoping to see you and Mrs. Douglass in your own home soon well and happy. Your affectionate friend Amelia Foy also that your leave of absence had been granted and that you would be home very soon, so we are looking for you the first of July. The State Dept. says it is entirely satisfied with everything you have done. I have been so unfortunate as to get poisoned and I have not been so I could do anything for a week past. Miss J. has given particulars. Miss Eva sails for Europe the 20th of this month and I am very glad of it. Her school closes the 18th. Cousin Etta is to remain in Washington during this month, perhaps longer. She said she was glad Mrs. Douglass was coming home, so she could see her. Her little Margaret is a very bright baby. Mr. Thayer and Mrs. Beadle came to Uncle Hiram's Saturday and we were all invited there to dinner Sunday, but owing to the inclement weather Mrs. Pitts and I did not go. Miss Jennie invited them (Mr. Thayer and Mrs. Beadle) for lunch Monday, also Mrs. Brick and Grace Babbitt. Mr. Thayer thought this the finest place he ever saw. There were a great many cherries and finer ones I never saw. Miss J. knew they would all be gone before you reached home and so she has been canning some for you. She had to pick them and store them all alone as my hands were in such a condition I could not touch anything. The tree that was blown over, was the one over on the west side of the walk the mate to the one that was cut down.Everything is about as usual here. Of course we will not have many flowers, because Miss Jennie cannot do everything. Fannie is cooking finely and the cow has a little bossie. It came Saturday night. The cow has been dry two months and did not give much milk all winter and I think Mrs. Rider feels dissatisfied, as she has been to considerable expense. One of the grand things Aunt Fannie is preparing or planning for her house is a tiled floor for her conservatory with a fountain in the center. Nell Short's boy (I do not know which one) broke his leg last week and "Dear Spencer" ran a nail into his hand. Mrs. Pitts is very well and talks constantly about your coming home. It is good she has it to think of. There has been a telegraph office established here andDUPLICATE REQUEST. PROPOSED PAN-REPUBLIC CONGRESS, OFFICE OF CHAIRMAN OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, 115 BROADWAY. New York, April 28th, 1891 TO THE MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL COMMITTEE. Gentlemen: Your Executive Committee would call your attention to the fact that the movement for a Pan Republic Congress gives promise of a great success. This means a conference in 1893, on American soil, of the "enlightened and liberal minds of the world, to discuss the interests of free institutions and the best means for their promotion among the nations of the earth." Such a gathering has within it the greatest possibilities for the benefaction of all mankind. The recent Pan-American Congress was for a commercial purpose. This goes far beyond that and will strive for man's political freedom. The Committee charged with organizing this congress, consists of citizens the most illustrious of the present day. It has met and named its sub-committees, who in the course of their duties make this appeal to you. Money is needed to carry on this work. A contribution was never made to a nobler cause. We request that every member of the Committee will personally aid at once in this all important part of our work. The publishing of the proceedings of our meetings, the printing of the addresses, editorials, earnest letters of encouragement received, the keeping up of our correspondence that is growing to enormous proportions, the work of organizing the Human Freedom League, as recommended by the Washington meeting means expense, and a work like this should not be crippled or delayed for want of funds. Members have asked how much each one should give or secure to be given. We answer all that you can, but without regard to subscriptions made before meeting of April 10th last contribute or obtain the contribution of not less than $25. Send check to Gen. Wm. O. McDowell, Treasurer, No. 20 Spruce St., Newark. N.J. (See enclosed list of the contributions received to date) ETHAN ALLEN, Chairman Executive Committee. We cordially unite in the expressions of the foregoing letter and the appeal made therein. WM. H. ARNOUX of New York City, Chairman of the General Committee of Two Hundred. CHAMPION S. CHASE, of Omaha, Nebraska, Chairman of the Committee on Plan and Scope. PERSIFOR FRAZER of Philadelphia, Chairman of the Committee on Invitation to Patriotic Societies. WALTER S. LOGAN of New York City, Chairman of the Committee on Congressional Action. [*978*]PAN-REPUBLIC CONGRESS COMMITTEE. Office of Secretary and Treasurer, 20 Spruce Street. Wm. H. Arnoux, Chairman. Wm. O. McDowell, Secretary. NEWARK, N. J. ....................................................189 We the undersigned hereby contribute the amount set opposite our names for the purpose of paying the expenses of organizing the Pan-Republic Congress and the Pan-Republic or Human Freedom League. Name. Address. Amount Paid. Col. Champion S. Ghase, LL.D. Omaha, Neb. $250.00 " Hon, W. H. Jack, Natchitoches, La. 175.00 " John Clark Ridpath, LL.D. Greencastle, Ind. 150.00 " Dr. Persifor Frazer, Drexel Building, Phila., Pa. 125.00 " Hon. Wm. H. Arnoux, 18 Wall St., N. Y. 125.00 " Col. Ethan Allen, 115 Broadway, N. Y. 100.00 " Mr. Wm. 0. McDowell, 20 Spruce St., Newark, N. J. 100,00 " His Eminence James Cardinal Gibbons, Baltimore, Md. 25.00 " Sen. Ed. 0. Wolcott, Denver, Col. 25.00 “ George W. Biddle, Esq., 505 Chestnut St , Phila., Pa. 20,00 " Mr. Benj. La Bree, New York City, 5.00 " Rt. Rev. Chas. Edward Cheney, D. D. Chicago, Ill. 10.00 " President E. Benj. Andrews, LL.D. Providence, R. I. 12.00 " Mr. Henry Baldwin, Atlantic City, N. J. 25.00 " Walter S. Logan, Esq., 58 William St., N. Y. 50.00 " Mr. William H. Webb, New York City, 50.00 " John Cadwalader, Esq. 263 S. Fourth St., Phila, Pa. 20.00 " S. S. Hollingsworth, Esq 714 Walnut St., Phila., Pa. 20.00 " Lawson Valentine, Esq, Houghton Farm, N.Y. 50.00 " Rev. W. C. Roberts, D.D, Lake Forest, Ill. 56.00 " S. E. Morss, Esq, Indianapolis, Ind. 25.00 " Gen. J. G. McCullough, Bennington, Vermont. 25.00 " Mr. Wm. McMahon, Rahway, N. J. 25.00 " Hon. Wm. C. Whitney New York City, 50.00 " Horace F. Deming, Esq, New York City, 10.00 " E. Ellery Anderson, Esq., New York City, 10.00 " Hon. Henry G. Davis, West Virginia 20.00 " Ex-Governor W. D. Hoard, Fort Atkinson, Wis. 25.00 " Prof. Alonzo Williams, Providence, R. I. 35.00 " Gen. R. A. Alger, Detroit, Mich. 50.00 " Mr. Oswald Ottendorfer, New York City, 100.00 " Mr. John Claflin, New York City, 100.00 " Hon. W. R. Grace, Hanover Square, N. Y. 100.00 " Hon. W. J. Arkell, Frank Leslie Illustrated Paper, 100,00 " Hon. Andrew Carnegie, 5 West 51st St., N. Y. 100.00 " (Over.) [*978-A*]Name. Address. Amount Paid. Yung Wing, LL.D. Hartford, Conn. $ 5.00 '' Mr. Thos. J. Shryock, Baltimore, Md. 10.00'' Hon. Levi P. Morton, V.P., U.S. New York. 25.00 '' Com'd Geo. B Winship, G.A.R. Grand Forks, N. Dakota. 10.00 '' Dr. Henry Randall Waite, Brooklyn, N.Y. 20.00 '' Rabbi Gustave Gottheil, Temple Emanuel, New York. 10.00 '' Ex-Gov Will Gumback, Greensbore', Ind. 10.00 '' Mr. S. B. Petingill Tacoma, Washington. 100.00 '' Hon. J.W. Woodside Philadelphia, Pa. 25.00 '' Mr. Chase. E. Buell, Plainfield, N.J. 10.00 '' Hon. William Dudely Foulke, Richmond, Ind. 10.00 '' E.K. Wright, President, Park Bank, New York. 10.00 '' Hon. Clem Studebaker, South Bend, Ind. 25.00 '' Mr. Nathan Appleton, Boston, Mass. 25.00 '' Mr. John R. Wheeler, Baltimore, Md. 10.00 '' Mr. Ferd Schumacher, Akron, Ohio. 100.00 '' Hon. Isaac Clerk, Morris Plains, N.J. 10.00 '' Hon. Wm. L. Terry, Little Rock, Ark. 10.00 '' Mr. Peter Cianciminus, Brooklyn, N.Y. 5.00 '' Rev. Milton E. Smith, Washington, D.C. 10.00 '' Hon James C. Hill, Richmond, Va. 10.00 " Mr. Thomas W. Chatard, Washington, D.C. 10.00 " Ex-Gov. Fred W. M. Halliday, Winchester, Va. 30.00 " Hon. H. C. Parsons, Natural Bridge, Va. 50.00 " Mr. Sergius Stepniak (Russian Crimea), London, England. 30.00 " Col Robert G. Ingersoll. New York, N.Y. 25.00 " Judge H.W. Bruce. Louisville, Ky. 30.00 "June 111th 1891 Dear Sir, Can you not send me a Hayti postal card with your autograph on it for my album of postal cards. Am an invalid (heart disease) in bed 8 years. My grandfather was a friend in the abolitionist cause in early days - Liberian emgration, etc. I enclose the value of a postal If you have no Hayti postal a line in a letter from Hayti would do through not as well. I read with much pleasure & interest your [*982*] C. HOWARD YOUNG, M. F. S. H., Professor of French, German and Italian. Ex-Professor of Modern Languages at Paris and Nice. Member of N. Y. Academy of Anthropology. Staff, Journal d'Hygiene (Paris). 230 Asylum St., HARTFORD, CONN.graphic great work Yours very respectfully [C].H. YoungSERIES 5. IF NOT CALLED FOR IN TEN DAYS POSTMASTER WILL PLEASE RETURN TO Prof. C. Howard Young, 230 Asylum St., Hartford, CONN. UNITED STATES LETTER SHEET ENVELOPE [*UNITED STATES POSTAGE TWO 2 CENTS*] Hon. Fred Douglass (U. S. Minister at Hayti) 2221 metre Please entrar des Etats Unis Hayti Republic of Hayti [*UNITED STATES POSTAGE 1 ONE CENT*] [*UNITED STATES POSTAGE 1 ONE CENT*] [*982*]Honeoye N.Y. June 12 1891 My dear Mr Douglass Your letter to me was a complete surprise I did not expect it I have a friend who posesed at one time what must have been the gift of clairvoyance putting letters received from the mail to her forehead for a few moments She would accurately describe the places and surroundings of persons just as they existed where the letter had been written This power of hers was tested and while she could not explain it only by the fact that she simply saw as in a picture the scenes she so correctly described. On reading [*979*]your letter I for once wished I posessed the gift of clairvoyance that I might look into your home in far away Hayti and enjoy the foreign scene when and where this message was written. I could only draw upon imagination instead often with me too vivid for a practical worker in this every day world. It gave me a pleasing picture yet having no personal knowledge of local points and coloring to sketch from could only call it a [fancy] pleasing picture tho' I found even that enjoyable as I read the kind tender tribute to your beloved Helen & was in hearty sympathy I rejoyced with exceeding joy. It was truly a beautiful tribute of apreciative regard to a noble woman sent to this almost helpless invalid at Honeoye My eyes glistened with tears as I took in the beautiful message God bless you & yours Mr Douglass was the feeling and sentiment that came to the front then and still prevails in this home. History makes rapidly in these days. It was no common ordeal to which our president has just submitted himself to be carrier carried around the land and be exhibited to his masters, meanwhile responding amiably to the national demand for a 'speech' One hundred and forty times President Harrison took his political life in his hand and opened his mouth and spoke Of some of his deliverances economists differ. None of his sayings are likely to become proverbs nor has he created an era or sensation But has he not shown readiness tact information. Good sense & self respect?Then you are enjoying a chapter of history which you do not deserve. I fear for your safety The French Revolution looms up in my mind with all its horrors. But you are a man with a Country and why not come to her at once. The worst thing that aflicts us now is a theologeue revolution. The Presbyterians are in serious commotion trying as a well known minister of that church has said to rig up a damnation coat with a gospel that I assure you from present appearances the tail is not likely to wag the head The Baptists are in confusion because Dr Bridgman has left their communion and gone to the Episcopal fold The state of mind among his former associates may be suggested by a story of early Massachusetts [*Franklin to Douglass: 1 of 2*]5 John a Puritan and Ruth a Quaker desire to marry but there are family objections on both sides, after much deliberation and weary discussion John says Ruth you leave the Quakers I will leave the Puritans we will get married, join the English Church and "go to the devil together". Haber Newton too is amusing himself in showing how elastic the cord is, and he reminds me of a boy with his grandfathers pipe blowing a bubble which when it becomes most brillant and beautiful is about to burst. What do you think of our new third party formers at Cincinnati with forty different ideas as a basis.I thank you, and I kindly and gratefully appreciate your kind and generous invitation to meet you at Cedar Hill, I profoundly regret my utter inability to enjoy the privilege so kindly offered. - but - I must submit to the inevitable. I was pained to hear of Helens severe sickness but am rejoiced to hear she is quite well again Remember me to her with much love I will write her in a few days Will you come to Honeoye this summer? Remember you will be most welcome, by Your friend M. A. Franklin9 Rue de Bassano Champs Elysées June 12, 1891. My dear Mr. Douglass: Your very kind letter & the very interesting & able introduction have reached me safely. I have shown the letter to M. Schoelcher & he was deeply touched at your kind references to him & greatly pleased that your contribution made possible the English translation. My little biographical sketch of him will be [*972*]interesting, I think. I spent the afternoon with him the other day & he gave me many curious facts about himself. In an old photographic album at this house, I found a photograph of you, as you used to look before the war, with your name on it written by scholars at the time. On the opposite page of the album were photographs of the two children of Toussaint! I have an English publisher ready to begin, as soon as he can find an American publisher who will take half of the Edition. He is trying to find one and so am I. It has occurred to me that perhaps your publisher would be the man. You might write him, if you feel inclined. But it is simply the question of a little correspondence to find such an American publisher. So you may consider that the book will appear sooner or later. In the meanwhile please be careful that your introduction does not "get out" & so get published. How nice it was of Mrs. Douglass to take the trouble to copy that long essay. How good wives are in cases of this kind! [*Schoelcher is now 87. He has failed much since you saw him, but still goes to the Senate every day!*]Mrs. Douglass asks after Mr. Yeatman. The poor man died near a year ago! His wife's address is 27 Boulevard Victor Hugo, Neuilly, Seine, France. Again thanking you for your kind letter and with best regards to great Mrs. Douglass, in which it is not necessary for me to say that my wife joins most heartily Believe me, my dear Mr. Douglass, Very truly yours, Theodore StantonJune 6, 1891. Enclosures to No. 172 Dip. Series Nos. 1 and 2. Copy and translation of joint note to minister Lechand protesting against violation alleged of covenants of Liberia and Mexico. May 30, 1891. Nos. 3 and 4. Minister Lechand denies alleged violation of Mexican & Liberian consulates June 1st 1891. Nos. 5 and 6. June 2, 1891. Collective response in answer to Minister Lechand's denial of the alleged violation of the said consulates. Nos. 7 and 8. June 3, 1891. Collective note to Minister Lechand denying any engagements whatever abt. right of asylum Nos 9 and 10. June 5, 1891. Minister Lechand's extended note in response to that of June 2d inst. of Diplomatic & consular corps. Nos. 11 and 12. June 6, 1901. Mr. Lechand recognizes a proposed difference on right of asylum, but hopes for continued good relations. Nos 12 and 14. June [15] 13, 1891. point not acknowledging M. Lechand's of the 5th inst. Altogether 58 pages of uselessness!Palmyra N.J. June 24, /91 My dear Mr. McKinlay, Could you conveniently let me have a loan of twenty five dollars ($25) with 8 per of interest for three months from July 1st. I have all of my balance invested and do not care to trouble it. I will not need it before the first of July. You can just drop me a card whether you can accommodate me. Hope baby is quite will ere this Love to all. Yours very truly, J. E. Rainy [*3105*][*M. M. J.*] TREASURY DEPARTMENT, FIRST COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE. WASHINGTON, D. C., June 30, 1891. Honorable Frederick Douglass, United States Minister and Consul General to Haiti, Care of the Department of State. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge your communication of June 19, 1891, replying to letter from this office dated May 22, 1891, concerning a difference of $200.00 in your account of Clerk Hire for the half year ended December 31, 1890-- In answer I have to say that it is understood that your draft of April 1, 1891, for $200.00 was not drawn on account of Clerk Hire for said half year, but was charged in the adjustment of your account for that half year, and therefore appeared as an item of difference in the adjustment of the account; this difference will doubtless disappear in the adjustment of your Clerk Hire account for the quarter ended March 31, 1891. I have the honor to advise you of the adjustment of the following of your accounts: Report 152410-- Salary for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1890-- Closed per supplemental adjustment. Report [*980 & 980-a*]2 Report 152411-- Contingent Expenses for the same fiscal year-- Closed per supplemental adjustment. Report 152744-- Pay for Services to American Vessels at Agencies October 10,1889 to June 30, 1890-- Balance found due to you, . . . . . . $82.76 Balance claimed, . . 85.26 Difference, . . . . $2.50 Being charge at Petite Goave, March quarter, suspended because not included in ship's bills. A draft in your favor for $70.96 will be remitted to you, and one for $11.80 in favor of L.T.Rougier, Agent at Jeremie, will be remitted to your care. Report 152412-- Contingent Expenses, July 1,1890 to December 31, 1890-- Balanced. Your account of Salary for the last named period is held in this office awaiting reply to letter from this office dated June 25,1891, addressed to John B.Terres, Esq., United States Vice Consul General to Haiti, requesting him to transmit to this office a waiver of all claim against the United States for Salary during your 3 your absence from Port-au-Prince; namely from July 19, 1890 to December 14, 1890. Respectfully yours, A. C. Matthews, Comptroller By J. R. Garrison Deputy Comptroller A. McD.Stamford Conn July 4th 1891 My dear Mr Douglass. I hasten to offer to you and Mrs D my sincere congratulations upon your safe return to the United States - out of perils, which to us, seem scarcely less than those into which Tennyson described the famous "six hundred" as riding at Balkalava - I had the great pleasure to receive by due course of mail your "private" note dated May 20th Having observed a paragraph in some newspaper- at about the same time - to the effect that you were soon to return from Hayti on leave of absence, I determined to defer acknowledging its receipt until your arrival in this country. It ought to be quite needless for me to say that I was rejoiced to hear from you, though sorry to hear that Mrs D had been suffering in health. The special reason which you give for desiring that I should know, that your official character, was not justly subject to the aspersions which unfriendly critics in certain quarters had cast upon it touching the negotiations for the St. Nicholas Mole-Coaling station - while flattering to my pride is at the same time a grateful surprise - It is difficult for me to see, how the good or the ill opinion of one as obscure as myself - can be of much importance to one who is as widely known and honored as yourself. Be that as it may be however, [*981*][It] it is gratifying to me to be able to say, that not the slightest shadow of doubt has ever entered my mind, that whatever duty - official or otherwise - which should devolve upon you would be ably, promptly and faithfully discharged. I have long ago ceased to regard political adversaries, social enemies, or official rivals as credible witnesses against or just critics of public men, and still less so in a case where race prejudice might be added to the other conditions. - We must not forget that there are in this country, many men both in, and out of official circles who still spell "Negro with two "gs". Our little household happily remains unbroken, and in superb health. Each member of it joins me, not only in congratulations, and good wishes- but also, in a cordial invitation to you and Mrs Douglass to come and pay us the visit which we missed last year. We shall probably remain at home for several weeks to come, finding no necessity pressing upon us, to go from home during the hot season for recuperation and rest. My son George, whom you may recall as a student in Yale University when you were here has just graduated from the Law Department of that Institution, with high honors- and been admitted to the Conn Bar. He is with us and will take a little rest after a long period of devotion to study, before entering upon the active duties of his profession. It would be verygratifying to us all, if you and Mrs D. could arrange to escape speedily from the [Capital city] heat and cares which must attend you in Washington, and hide away for rest and recuperation, beneath our roof, [and] in the salubrious air of this quiet region. Sincerely & faithfully yours Charles E Hill Hon F. Douglass Washington D. C.Anacostia D. C. July 8th 1891. A. C. Matthews. Controller: I have the honor to acknowledge your of the 30th June addressed to me care of the State Department concerning a difference of $200.00, in my account of clerk hire for the half year ended December 31st 1890. Stating that my Draft of April 6th 1891 was not drawn on account of clerk hire for said half year, but was charged in the adjustment of my account for that half year - and therefore appeared as an item of difference in the adjustment of the account. I am quite sure that this difference will disappear in the adjustment of my clerk hire accounts for the quarter ended March 31st, 1891. I am obliged and gratified by the information conveyed in your letter concerning the adjustment of my other accounts. I have no doubt that Dr. John B. Terris, our vice consul general at Port au Prince, will promptly send his waver of any claim against the United States for services rendered during my leave of absence in 1891, he having expressed himself satisfied with the compensation (though small) I made him on my return to my post. I am Sir, very Respectfully Your Obedt. Serv. Frederick Douglass [*3013*]THE REPUBLICAN LEAGUE, NEW HAVEN, CONN. July 14, 1891. My dear Douglass: I am very much gratified to be assured by your letter of the 11th inst. that your health has begun to improve. For my part, I feel sure that you will, within a reasonable time, become somewhat like your old-time self again. Your see my theory is that all the vital organs are in good trim, and that you simply need rest, ease of mind and tip-top nourishment to put them in full motion again. Now see if I'm not right. I am also delighted almost beyond measure to know that in your opinion my reply to the "liar from Haïti" as he appeared in the NY. Sun of the 6th inst., is all that is required for any vindication, and that it is full, complete and convincing. Your view on this point afforded me [*811*]almost complete relief from uneasiness on that score. But in last Sunday's (day before yesterday's) Sun the scamp returns to the charge by rehashing his former deliberate lies. I enclose the article herewith for your perusal. Now in regard to both these Sun articles I went to see Congressman Amos J. Cummings of N.Y., whom I found a truly splendid fellow. He read them all over with the experienced eye of a first class newspaper man, and with an evident feeling of sympathy (the French Sympathie) for you and me in the circumstance. He said that my reply to the first article covered the ground, except that if I could prove the assertion ascribed to Mr. Crosswell to be false, I could put in a clincher. Mr. Cummings spoke of you in the highest terms of esteem. In regard to the second article he advised me to take no notice of it. He said that there was evidently an animus in both articles, and he told me of ways in which Clyde could get just such articles in the great journals of N. Y.!! "Now", said Mr. Cummings, "if you differ with me "about noticing this second article and decide "to answer it, I'll tell you what I'll do: you "write out anything you want to say in the "form of an interview, and I'll father it and "sign it myself." That settled the matter in my mind, and I've since been as mute as an oyster about it, tho' swarms of reporters have been running after me. I've read with a deep interest all the reported "interviews" with you, and I feel bound to congratulate you on them all. The old-time Frederick Douglass loomed up in them all. But your "interview" in yesterday's World was a poser, a masterpiece. The "Haitien Refugee" of the Sun must feel like hiding his head. Your vindication of me is complete, because it is the truth in effect. And in the Herald's "interview" of the other day, you did so knock that "white-man-needed-as-a-minister" business squarely on the head that I haven't got over rejoicing about it yet. In my opinion you have nothing to regret in what you have been reported [in] as saying in the newspaper since you've been homeStill there's this to be considered: if the department if disposed to be rigorous with you, and I must say that I do not think that it is so disposed, you may be called to a mild account for talking as much to the public about affairs down there. I enclose a short clipping from Saturday's World on this point - Please return both the enclosed clippings as Lotty is making a collection of them all. Now a word on two other points: (1) don't you see how evident it is that the newspapers have an animus to run you off the track! The World has sent a special correspondent to Port au Prince, whose 2nd installment appears in to-day's issue. I think he is instructed to write you down. Remember the Hoornbeck episode - The end point is that I think you owe it to Haiti and to our whole race to hold on right where you are. No other man of our race could fill just the breach that you now fill. You hold the fort. You stand between a hand full of our people, a mere hand full as compared with other peoples - and the devouring wolves gnashing their teeth in all the panoply of race hatred to get at them. The ear and the conscience of the public are open to you as they are not to any other man of our race. Believe me, I am serious in all this. Don't stir, don't move an inch from just where you now stand. Don't even whisper about resigning, for the moment you do that the jig is up for Haiti. Very cordially yours, E. D. Bassett.THE REPUBLICAN LEAGUE, NEW HAVEN, CONN. July 15, 1891. My dear Douglass: I don't intend by any means to keep on firing letters at you at the rate of one a day. But do not on any account fail to procure and read the New York World of to-day. I am afraid that living as you do away from the center of the city, you might fail to see this day's World. The article from its correspondent at Port au Prince is altogether the fairest that I've seen yet from our press, and it may be the beginning of a little more truth telling about Haiti. The article knocks out of sight the lying [*812*]and malicious report about the failure in the môle negotiations being one to you and brings the Admiral to the front in his true colors. It also touches up handsomely the equally vile reports about your unpopularity down there. Be sure to procure the paper. Read the correspondent's letter, and then turn over and read the brief editorial where you will find the true animus of the World which crops out notwithstanding its correspondent's letter. Yesterday's Sun had another mean article on you and me. It purports to come from a miserable Atlas Str. Captain named McKay. I noticed in your interview with the World correspondent the other day that you seem to think that Jean is that paper's bogus "refugee" who is venting his mean spite against us in its columns. Maybe you're right. But do you know, I suspected Reed. Perhaps they have put their heads and their grievances together. I do not however wish to do an injustice. Still I think it altogether likely that either one or both these worthies may prove to be the Sun's bogus "refugee." Keep an eye to the windward, my dear Douglass, and stand firm. I confirm all that I said on this point in my yesterday's letter to you. Very cordially yours, E.D. BassettForm 2.—For Type Writer Use. POSTAL TELEGRAPH CABLE COMPANY COMMERCIAL CABLES TELEGRAM This company TRANSMITS and DELIVERS messages subject to conditions printed on back of this Blank. ALBERT B. CHANDLER, President and General Manager. JOHN O. STEVENS, Secretary. [*59*] Received at 22 Bn NY 55 SJ H 135PM 39 Paid New York July 15 1891 Hon Frederick Douglass Washn Will you explain for the North American review the haitian situation would provide stenographer and would pay at the rate of one hundred and fifty dollars for three thousand words. Article to reach us by August First answer paid. North American Review.CONDITIONS. Errors can be guarded against only by repeating a message back to the sending station for comparison, and the Company will not hold itself liable for errors or delays in transmission or delivery of Unrepeated Messages beyond the amount of tolls paid thereon or in any case where the claim is not presented in writing within sixty days after sending the message. This is an Unrepeated Message and is delivered by request of the sender under the conditions named above.Bridport, July 16, 1891 Dear Mr. Douglass, About a fortnight ago, we saw a paragraph in the Pall Mall Gazette, (which I take), respecting affairs at Port-au-Prince, that led us to fear that you had been in perilous circumstances. I intended to have written a line of inquiry at once, but the friend to whom I send on the paper forgot to return it as I had requested. A day or two ago, we saw another paragraph, which renewed our apprehension. It would not be fair to ascribe the unsettled condition of the island to the colour of the inhabitants, since [the] South American republics seem in much the same disturbed state [*983*]When you wrote, on March 8th, you were suffering from trials that - - in [to] every man - came more home to you. Mrs Douglass was still very ill. I hope that, by this time, she has made great progress toward complete recovery; but rheumatic fever leaves its traces. My father was dangerously ill for more than three months, when a student at Glasgow. My sister Mary suffered for the same disease, in 1855, when her life was despaired of, for a time; and though some of her best work was done in the receding 22 years, her sudden, though pain less death, was attributed by my brother William to the weakness of the heart which the rheumatic fever had caused. As regards yourself, you have done so much, and borne so much, that I never should have expected that you had suffered from it - but perhaps I heard of it at the time. Happily one does not remember all the sad news one hears of! I am glad that you were interested in the Antislavery Reporter. When you return to Washington, I will send it you regularly, with much pleasure, if you care to see it. It will be a relief to us to hear that you are in your beautiful home again, among your old friends. We should be very glad of a line to say how you andMrs. Douglass are : and then, when you are more at ease, we may hope in due time for one of your interesting letters With kind regards to you both, believe me yours faithfully & affectionally, R. L. CarpenterNantucket, July 18, 1891. My dear friends:- We, (Charlotte and I) congratulate you upon your safe arrival back to Washington. Charlotte is sojourning in Nantucket for a few weeks. Mr. Mann remains at New Haven. Mrs. M comes frequently to pass the day with me and I return the visit. She suggested my writing to you. Writing has become quite burdensome to her she is so feeble - seemingly like thistle down. But that she has improved since her arrival on the Island is clearly evident. She did not think of walking out at all when I was in New Haven - now, she does more walking than [*984*]Indian Government is responsible has just occurred in the State of Manipur, near the borders of Burmah, meaner and more atrocious even than what has recently disgraced Hayti. It is reported in a little sheet called "Anti-Cast" - a paper for which I subscribe and which I circulate as a remnant of Anti Slavery work. Its nature is what its name signifies. The world is not half civilized even in so-called civilized lands. [*"Ah! when shall all men's good Be each man's rule, and universal peace Lie like a shaft of light across the land, And like a lane of beams athwart the sea, Thro' all the circle of the golden year!" TENNYSON*] I have heard from you quite directly within a few days. You may wonder how - as Washington is not very near us, anchored far away in the sea. Well, though you must have been through I can though of course that is not much considering my lameness, I am sorry to learn that Mrs. Douglass is showing traces of her rheumatic suffering. It must have been dreadful in that sultry climate. I hope she will pick up - renew her lost vigor. Would not the invigorating atmosphere of Nantucket benefit her as it has Charlotte? I hope you will never return to Hayti - that fearful theater of cruelty. Mr. Douglass' declining years should not in any manner be associated with that "mindless monster" Hyppolite, not that he is [?] guilty of greater crimes and cruelties than other Generals whose selfish ambition and irresponsible power has caused the slaughter of countless hundreds of their fellow men. An act for which the British [*Anne Gardner to Douglass, July 18, 1891*] a world of experience since last we met, I fancy you have not entirely forgotten our old friends, the Osgoods. What was my surprise the other day on responding to a rap upon my parlor door to meet Mrs. Osgood face to face. I had not seen her since you so kindly and generously took me to her house. She told me Mr. Osgood met Mr. Douglass in the street - that the latter looked in good condition, & I should infer the interview was extremely cordial. When she comes again I will make a point of learning something more. I want to know whether the old ruts are obliterated. We talked Theosophy. She is a member of a Theosophic Society inWashington and I had just finished reading several volumes on the subject. not being a Theosophist, I read them as I would a novel. Nantucket has totally changed in all respects since you were here. To become a popular watering place is moral decay and death to any town. I think you learned of Mr. Sanford's death before you went to Hayti: There is scarcely any thing left as it was to recommend the Island save the ozone of the atmosphere. I hope that health restoration may bring you some day to our shores. How delighted you must have been once more to be clasped in the armsof your mother and sister whose suspense after hearing of the massacre must have been terrible. I hope your mother has fully recovered her health. There is no blessing compar- able with that. Without it, life is not worth living. With love to yourselves and your household, I am most cordially yours, Anne Gardner, Orange St. [*No 180*] Cedar Hill, Anacostia, D.C. July 18, 1891. Honorable William F. Wharton, Acting Secretary of State; Sir; I have the honor to respectfully render to [him] [the] Honorable Benjamin Harrison, President of the United States, my resignation of the office of Minister Resident and Consul General of the United States to Haiti and of Charge d'Affairs to Santo Domingo [and to respectfull ask that the same shall take effect without delay.] I take this step with every sentiment of respect, confidence and esteem towards the President of the United States and with a profound sense [and with a profound cause] of obligation to him for the honor of the appointment which [I hereby resig] from personal considerations I [hereby resign] feel it my duty to resign. I am sir your obedient servant [*1060*][*20*] Form 2. TELEGRAM This company TRANSMITS and DELIVERS messages subject to conditions printed on back of this Blank. [*10 40*] ALBERT B. CHANDLER JOHN C. STEVENS President and General Manager. Secretary [*POSTAL TELEGRAPH CABLE COMPANY CONNECTION WITH THE COMMERCIAL (MACKAY-BENNETT CABLES*] NUMBER SENT BY REC'D BY CHECK 20 Ny GH G 19 pd 2 Ex Dated New York 22 Recorded at 1427 F ST. N.W. To Hon Fredick Douglas TELEPHONE CALL 458 W DC Will use article on lines proposed by you in next number manuscript must be here Aug first. North Amn Review Lloyd Brice"CLOVELLY," 18, MUNDANIA ROAD, HONOR OAK, London S.E. July 23rd 1891 My Dear Sir The presence of the Rev. Bishop Hawkins, a coloured Methodist from Canada, in this country, the great enthusiasm occasioned by his narratives of slave life and the present condition of the coloured population of America, and other circumstances - such as the publication of a series of letters on the negro question in the Times newspaper - have brought about a good deal of public interest in the question & occasioned the expression of a good deal of sympathy with [*985*]should not accomplish everything at once but I am thinking that help from this side might become of great value. Will you consider this matter and let me hear from you at your convenience? Yours faithfully W. Garver Hon. Fred. DouglasBethlehem, July 25 '91 Hon. Frederick Douglass: Dear Sir and Friend:- I know you will not recognize this writing, nor the signature of this letter, so before saying any more, I beg leave to introduce myself to you. I am the daughter and only child of Annie, the oldest daughter of your Cousin, "Mary Price" of Harrisburg, Pa. I suppose you remember the family of Mr. Henry Price of H'b'g. So mama requested me to write to you, as she [*977*]did not know whether you had been informed of the death of "Dear Grandma," your Cousin, "Mrs. Mary Price" of H'bg'. She has been dead a year and [two] four months, having died March 29, '90. And as most of the old family have gone, mama felt as though she would like to hear from you. We have been living in Bethlehem for 16 years. It is a beautiful country town, 56 miles from Philadelphia, on a branch of the Phila. and Reading R. R. The scenery here and around us, is perfectly grand. And we are not very far from the "Switchback and Glen Onoko, which is called "The Switzerland of America." The grandure of the scenery from the tops of the mountain, pen cannot describe, for it gives a full view of the beautiful "Lehigh Valley" in which Bethlehem is situated. It is a very healthful place with pure mountain air, and the most delicious spring water, sparkling and clear as crystal. The first water-works in the United States was built in Bethlehem. One very singular coincidence in its history was the giveing of its name. The first settlers that came [to] here, (I mean civilizedsettlers, as the first were Indians) reached here Christmas Eve, and they agreed to call it "Bethlehem" after the far off Bethlehem of Judea. And it seems as if we are particularly blest, as we very seldom [we] have [and] terrific storms or in fact encounter any of the danger that befall other places. Mama says she would be delighted to have both you and your wife visit us, and any time you come to Phila. a short ride of an hour and three quarters will bringyou to our little town. We live plainly but comfortable, and would endeavor to make your visit pleasant. I hope your will pardon my forwardness in writing to you, and please do not deem it improper, as it was at mama's request. I will very happy if you would honor me with a letter, and should we never have [ng] the pleasure of seeing either you or Mrs. Douglass, would it be asking too much of you, for a photograph of yourself and wife? Mama and Papa both join me in sending kindest regards to you both. Hoping you will allow me the pleasure of hearing from you at some convenient period, I beg to remain Your little cousin "although a third one, Evangeline Higgins. 42 Broad St. Bethlehem Pa. [Kind regards for Mr. & Mrs. Douglas from Mrs. Ona Longhorne. Culpepper, Va.]Form 2. POSTAL TELEGRAPH CABLE COMPANY IN CONNECTION WITH THE COMMERCIAL [MACKAY-BENNETT] CABLES [*31*] TELEGRAM This company TRANSMITS and DELIVERS messages subject to conditions printed on the back of this Blank. ALBERT B. CHANDLER, President and General Manager. JOHN O. STEVENS, Secretary. NUMBER 38NY SENT BY Bo REC'D BY M CHECK 21po Dated New York 25 Received at 1427 F. ST, N.W. TELEPHONE CALL 458. To: Hon Fredk Douglass 2/25 1891 Washn Can arrange for two articles of three thousand words each. Shall count on receipt of manuscript of one by August first North American ReviewTHE REPUBLICAN LEAGUE, NEW HAVEN, CONN. July 26, 1891. My dear Douglass: Mr. Firmin arrived in New York last Wednesday afternoon, and sailed for Paris yesterday morning. He was accompanied by Mrs. Firmin and their two young children. He charged me to convey to you his expressions of esteem and his best wishes for your welfare, and also to tell you that his passage through New York was marred by the fact that he could not possibly come to pay his respects to you in person. The steamer was more than ten days behind the original schedule time upon which he had made his calculations for a week's sojourn in the States. His health absolutely demands that he should pass as long a time as possible at the "waters" in France. The "season" [*813*]there closes with the month of August. These are the reasons why, as he charged me to explain them, he could not come to see you and Mrs. Douglass. There were quite a number of persons by the Dutch steamer from Port au Prince, among them was our bright little friend Cicéron. But I saw only M. Firmin and his family and Chas. D' Aubigny. I also received letters from Dr. Terres and Battiste and also some Haitian journals. Crain came on also. But I couldn't find him in N. Y., and I don't know where he is. I presume he'll write to us in due time. I have learned nothing of his affair since we left Haiti. The Dr. and Battiste say that every thing at the office is moving on smoothly. The interest on the coupons of Haven, Heuvelmann, Oaksmith &c. has been attended to. But, alas for us! the back interest which the President promised in his last year's message to liquidate, has not been paid. There has been a change in the cabinet. But it appears that only two new men have been bro't into it. Mr. Stewart who lives next door to the building in which is our office and who was the President's trusted private secretary and a member of the Corps Législatif from the Cape, has been made Minister of Finance. The other new member is M. Chaney. M. Lechand is permanently charged with the Dept. of Foreign Affairs. From all that I can learn from the inside of things down there, the situation has in no way changed since we left, except that there is a show of more confidence. Gold was at 16 â 17. The wars, conspiracies, shootings uprisings and all that, seem to exist only in the New York journals now. There's nothing of the kind in Haiti at present, and nobody there seems to be in the least troubled about the exiles in Jamaica or elsewhere or about Ansèlme Prophète's flaming proclamations, as to which the N. Y. Tribune has seemed lately to be so much concerned. Ansèlme is himself a mutton headed fellow. He made a pile of money under Legitime, and from what I know of AnsèlmeI think he'll hang on to it, rather than to let much of it go even for flaming proclamations - much less for sound expeditions. Do you see the N.Y. Journal regularly? Or, at any rate, did you see the World of Thursday the 23rd inst.? If not, you must try to find it or I will send you a clipping from it. The article referred to is even fairer than the forwarded one from the correspondent at Port au Prince. The Herald and Sun of that date (the 23rd) have also articles on Haiti. Portrait of Firnmin and Terres are given in the enclosures of the World and Herald. You ought also to see a long editorial in the Sun of the 18th. Have you seen it? Shall I send it to you? Well, how are you? I've been for some days thinking of you and wishing to know just how you are. My daughter Lizzie has been dangerously sick with dysentery. She's better now, but very weak. Please remember us to Mrs. Douglass. Do you think of running out this way during the season? Yours very cordially, E.D. Bassett The newspapers seem to have subsided about us for the time being at any rate.TREASURY DEPARTMENT, FIRST COMPTROLLER'S OFFICE, WASHINGTON, D. C. July 30, 1891. Honorable Frederick Douglass, U.S.Minister and Consul General to Haiti, Care of the Department of State. Sir: I have the honor to advise you of the adjustment per Report 152778, of your account of Salary for the half year ended December 31, 1890: a balance is found due from you of, . . . $1112.94 being the amount of your draft of April 1, 1891, which has been presented and paid, and is charged per this adjustment. It is observed that in making up your accounts you have not charged salary from September 26, 1890 to October 2, 1890, being a period after the expiration of your statutory leave which it is presumed was not employed on duty connected with your Mission. The remainder of the time in excess the statutory period is allowed because of a certification by the Secretary of State that you were detained in the United States by direction of the State Department, on business connected with your Mission. Respectfully yours, A.C. Matthews, Comptroller. By JRGarrison Deputy Comptroller [*AMSTS*] [*986*]