[*1865?*] The Cottage Fairfax Co. Va Dec. 21st. My dear Sir I found yr note when I went up to Washington on Sunday & regretted not having Mrs Blunts letter with me that I might have replied instantly to yr wish for her address - On referring to it I find she desires me to write to her at Montreal - to the Care of "Myman B.S. Moor U.S. Consul Genl,, & says she will certainly [*6733*] [*go there on her return from Detroit & Chicago - As my friends tell me she has not yet been at N. York I take it for granted She must be lingering in Canada Thank you for your kindness to my poor friend & believe me very truly yr - oblgd Emily V. Mason*][*Washington DC My dear Sir Dec 24 65 I would suggest to you as a matter which I consider of great consequence in the cross-examination of the witnesses for the defence that you have Genl Roberts by your side in the court. He is very familiar with all the details of the operations involved in the case, & knows the witnesses - He can suggest many questions of great importance based on that knowledge which probably would not occur to you and which will easily blow away the clouds in which the defence will try to envelop this case -*] [*1734-5*]Genl Roberts as the officer preferring the charges is a most proper person to be present especially as much odium will necessarily fall both on him and me if the case is not fully proved - I make this suggestion & request of you with much diffidence but I know you will attribute it to the proper motive. I am sir very truly & resply Jno Pope Hon. J. Holt Judge Advocate Genl,[*Hardinsburg Dec. 25. 1865 D Sr I rec? yr of 16th by our last mail. I had mailed one to you before its rect. It is generally known, that I am authorized to sell yr lands - and I have had several applications for purchase but did not sell, as I wished to give time for competition - and also wished to be authorized to convey - The plan, that suggests itself to my mind is, to require part payment in cash, and the bal. in 1 & two years- and to make conveyances at once, retaining a lien for the purchase money. In this way I think it probable, the land will sell, for at least double its apprd value - with one exception - the tract on Clover creek*] [*6736*][[*from its calls, must be a broken poor tract, and I suppose must have been assessed so high in consequence of some support mineral as it lies near the CouncilCoal mines in our County. This tract probably ought not to be sold, until something more definite is known about it. We have at present a good prospect for oil, 4 or 5 miles from town, which if not found false will probably advance the price of land in this county generally. I have kept no copies of my letters to you, and fear I have given you a confused idea of the questions arising upon yr aunts will. I will endeaver in this to be more explicit. By a Kentucky statute if the devisee dies during the life of the testator leaving issue the estate devised paper to the [?] of the devisee, thus repealing the common law rule of lapsed devises. A trust would no doubt be governed by the same rule. But the question I think is, Is there a trust? The legal title is clearly devised to you with a bequest, that you should present or convey to Jennings. Is that bequest imperative or discretionary? Can it be enforced by the [devisee] party to whom it is bequested the Conveyance should be made, or does it depend upon the choice of the devisee. In other words does such a devise constitute a trust in favor of it? The authorities I referred you to seem to indicate that it [is] does not. We have no Ky statute, nor decision, to which I can find, on that subject. I have no doubt if [Is.?] had lived that you would have conveyed it trust or not but what you ought to*]to do so - under the present circumstances is of course, for your own determination. I have not heard from Watkins since I wrote him a very urgent letter - Mr. Allen has just returned home from Frankfurt, I have not yet seen him, but will do so and again urge the payment of the money. They have given no security as [escrow?] yet I apprehend the money will ultimately be collected. There is great difficulty in recovering it by law - owing to the circumstances detailed in a former letter but if I cannot get satisfactory assurance of payment, soon I shall presume that course - Is had some land near Chicago which Mr. Allen informed me should be sold & applied to the paym't of this debt. Whether it has been sold, I am not at present advised. I.G. Stephens asked me to write to S. Kasey - as to the value of yr lands. I suppose with a view to a wholesale purchase as I did not do so - because frm what he said as to value I could not trade with him Yrs [Jeke?] W. KincheloeMount Airy 30h. Dec. '65 My dear Sir, Looking to-day into my pigeon hole I have come across two more numbers of the Berks and Schl. Journal which were sent to me some time ago, one of which still leaving me one to keep, I think you ought to have. I therefore beg leave to inclose it. Some time ago, not very long ago [*6737*] ago, I was attracted by several consecutive articles in the Nat. Intelligencer signed "Madison" in the case of the Southern Members of Congress, and read them all. I do not know what your views may be on the subject, but if I had not known of a little piece of secret history, known also to you, in connection with your name and the Intelligencer, growing out of this article now in the Berks and Schl. Journal- which knowledge made made it seem not at all likely to me that any thing from your pen would be apt to appear in that paper - I should almost have thought the articles were yours, judging from the sound reasoning, full knowledge of our history and animated style. They really seemed to me to be unanswerable. I am quite curious to know who is the author. Do you know? They have attracted a good deal of attention hereabouts. I I had a letter from Mr. Adams the other day from Brighton, in which we spoke of his anxiety to return home before long. This confirms what we see in the papers, but I should think it a misfortune for the Country just now, For I doubt it would be easy matter for the Government to fill his place very well at this particular time. Very Truly and resp, my dear Sir Your friend Benjamin Rush Hon. J. HoltCapitol line Tuesday morning Dear Mr. Holt May I come over to see you this morning before you go to your Office? I have just learned of a new candidate for Mr. Cosby's place - & as he hails from Kentucky I thought I had better notify you. See my honored friend how necessary you have become to your Ae If you will name, the time of my advent I will be with you, half past 8 or nine? - [*6738*]Executive Office, Jackson, Miss., 1865. Hon. Joseph Holt Dear Sir At the request of our mutual friend I P Harrison, I send you the enclosed letter to be laid before the President with his other papers, which he informs me have been forwarded to you. I hope you may succeed in getting him relief — Mississippi All right. Your Obt Servt W L Sharkey [*6739*]Hon. Joseph Holt Washington City Gov. Sharkey1865? My dear Sir You have been so very kind that I hesitate to appear before you again, but I must thank you for having so promptly sent some work to my poor friends Mrs. Adams & her daughters - & must beg that you will try & send them a little (now & then) just to keep hope alive in their hearts until we can make some permanent arrangements for their relief — You will be glad to know [*6740*] that I have heard throughmy Detroit friends that Mrs Blunt had "good houses both there & at Chicago - " And Mr. Jno. M. Chilton gives one some news of our dear friend Mr. Harrison Mrs. Norton & Mr. Chiltons son Charley are in Lexington They describe Mr. Harrison's affliction as most touching to witness, & Mr Chilton quotes from a letter he has just had from him these pathetic lines "The younger portion of my family with in the course of time forget - or cease to feel it - But I can never live long enough for that - It is the first thing I think of in the morning - the last at night. - It fills my thoughts by day - & colors & shapes my dreams when asleep" Excuse my troubling you with so long a note - but I could not resist speaking to you of Mr. Harrison whom I love so much - sure too that whatever I could tell you of him would interest you - Very truly yr obt svt - Emily V. Mason Washington Monday Dec, 6thTo Lewis Payne Powell. "If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father -- Jesus Christ -- the Righteous." Just as I am without one plea, But that thy blood was shed for me, And that thou bid 'se me come to Thee, O Lamb of God, I come! Just as I am, and waiting not, To rid my soul of one dark blot, To thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot O Lamb of God, I come! Just as I am, though tossed about With many a conflict, many a doubt, Fighting's within, and foes without, O Lamb of God, I come! [*6741*][*Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind, - Sight, riches, healing of the mind, Yea, all I need, in Thee I find, -- O Lamb of God, I come! Just as I am, --thou will receive, Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve, Because thy promise I believe, -- O Lamb of God, I come! Just as I am, thy love, I own, Has broken every barrier down, Now to be thine, and thine alone, O Lamb of God, I come! From a stranger who prays for you dailyLewis Payne Powell -Baumius Hotel Baltimore Sunday Gen. J. Holt, General, I expected that when I reached Baltimore to meet a friend who would supply me with the necessary means to return to Kentucky. Unfortunately I found on arrival that he had left some time since for some portion of the State of New York, and I am here a stranger and without funds I cannot get an answer from Kentucky under ten days or two weeks, and my hotel bill is increasing for myself & wife at the rate of Eight dollars per day In this dilemma I venture, altho' a personal stranger, to apply to you for the loan of say $100--until I can reach Elizabethtown and make arrangementsfor returning the amount to you. If you can thus accommodate me I shall always remember your kindness with gratitude I should probably have been supplied with money from home before this, but the Evacuation of Richmond was so sudden that it was not immediately anticipated by my mother or Judge Churchill Hoping to hear from you immediately and that I will not put you to great inconvenience I am with respect Robert S. Forde of Elizabethtown KentuckyHear a case the Judge advocate that in sifting testimony in regard to the assassination of Mr. Lincoln than you don't find evidence to implicate Mr. Andy Johnson & someone by name of Beast Butler. it is on us to endeavor to fix upon the South what rascals of the North worked to accomplish. Namely to get aid of the only two men in Our government who have really vision of peace in I count manner of wonderful the trial proven the fears of the parties concerned Booth & Co. [*6743*]Madison Place Thursday Morn House of Sec-War Dear General My daughter - Mary & self are on our way to Richmond & staying a few days at Washington. We should be very glad to see you before we leave, Shall be at home This & to-morrow evening, Should we not be at This house when you call you will probably find us at 1512 H. St where we take our meals. With kind regards sent you by my husband & hoping to see you soon I remain Your Friend Mrs H. B. Burnham [*6744*]Hon J Holt Dear Sir I sent you a note yesterday asking you to call as I wanted to see you on business but I made a mistake in it by writing "Williard's Hotel" instead of the Kirkwood House. If you can, will you be so kind as to come to the latter place this morning Respectfully Julie Schoepf [*6745*][*Januy am Dear Mr. Holt I send you a letter which speaks for itself - you see the false position in which my friend has been placed from your report not being published - he has felt it every moment since he has been in that thing! I am so anxious about him, [lu] not get price out it the Dept - if ought his happens to him - I never noting this is [???????] Yours [??? Hreas?] [*6746*]Hon: J. Holt, Dear Sir, My sister could not succeed in seeing Mr. Watson on the day she was at the Department — We, however, obtained the loan of forty-two dollars for a few days — Louisa is now very ill, and under medical treatment and should they notify her, at the Depart. that her writing was ready, she is not able to go. I am sure, from the kind interest you have manifested for us, that you will be pleased to hear, that I have been promoted, in position, but whether my salary will be increased I have not learned. I can only trace, my being thus favored, to your very kind influence, as none of the other ladies were promoted. Very sincerely yours Marcellina Adams. [*6747*]Dear Judge I called at the White House this morning, but found the President denied to everybody, being in council with you. I suppose the recent [court martials] verdicts on the testimony of Parden Wasley was under consideration, on your reports relative to those cases. I have heard of course mainly one side; but while believing in arbitrary arrests & military trials, I could not convict any one on the testimony of such a man, unless supported by far more reliable witnesses. I have heard that your report was favorable. If it is not a secret, as I suppose it will not be after the President finally decides, I would like to hear the result on the Wallach's & Hamilton Eastn of Balt. Could you send it to me at the Capitol by some messenger today before 3½ P.M. Excuse me for troubling you. Yrs vy trly Schuyler Colfx [*6748*]ColfaxTo The Honrble Judge advocate Joseph Holt Sir Seeing a Decision From you in Refference to a case wherein Mr Wm Curtis Formerly the chief Engineer on the Ram Queen of the West. The charges appeared to be that Mr Curtis Should have threatened that in the Event of her (Queen) being ordered into action at any Future time if it did not meet his views and approbations that he (Curtis) would Disable the Engines, So as to Render her unfit For Duty. Now the Facts as I gathered Them From Some 5 or 6 of the officers and crew of The Queen = were These. Mr Curtis and his assistants, were working at the calms adjusting them = when The cook by the Name of Thos Hartshorn observed it would be an Easy Matter Mr Curtis to Throw Something in thoes calms and fix her So She could not go into action Mr curtis Replied yes it would be very Easy to do but you had better Never Throw anything in Them for if I'd See you at it off would go your head. I have had Many Similar Remarks Made to me in my 25 years Experience as an Engineer Such Questions & Remarks are very common without the Least intentions of harm but Mr Jacob Lauber was desirous of getting the position of Mr curtis and insinuated that Mr curtis made threats in addition to that Mr Roberts who is an Nephew of Genl Ellets did not like Mr Curtis = I was on board of The Ram Queen of the west = while She Lay at Helena Arkansas some 3 or 4 Times and Enquired Particularly in order to obtain The Real Facts in the Case. I must in Justice say that I believe that the Most of the Persecution arose from Personal Feelings instead of actual grounds for charges = in addition Mr Lauber I am Sorry to Say that he was Expelled from The senior association of Steam boat Engineers in 1852 or 3 For Swearing to Sustain the Established wages of that association = and afterwards without giving the Required Warning to the order = hiring for less than the Established wages on The Steamr Nisemsin Running between Cincinti & Madison Ind [*6745*]As a Daily Packet= Mr Lauber Lived to Reach his home as I have been informed Steped in his House and then Droped Down Dead without Speaking one word to his wife. I could hope that he Stood before the Great Judge that never Errs in his Decisions. I will Say Sir that I have known Mr Wm Curtis for over 20 years allways found him a high minded Honorable Gentleman = a good Engineer = a man of Good Social Position in Society and feels that he has been grievously wronged - Not by your Decision at all Sir for he thinks the Decision according to the Evidence in the case but the Evidence he feels sure Eminated in Mallice and in the Issue I can freely join him. I have wrote from a sense of Injustice to Mr curtis as an old and Esteemed Friend of over 20 years Standing and From what My Friend Mr Samual Gaty of St Louis tells me of you Sir=I know that you desire Justice to all = and Mr Curtis I know to be a True and Loyal man and as willing to fight for the Supremicy = of the old Flag as any other man living = but as the case now stands, he is deprived of the Privilege = while we have Scoundrels on boats that have worked and fought in and For the Rebel cause for 2 and 3 years Now running boats Laden with hundreds 1000's of Dollars worth of Government Supplies= This is truly a Damper on the truely Loyal Engineer =for a villian = When he Sees There accused Ship of Secesion Gradually sinking Down in to the Dark abyss of her native hell = Simply come over and with There hand on the bible of God and a lie in there Black hearts swere There allegiance to the Government of Washington and Jackson: we were Promised In 1862 that Loyal Engineers Should be Protected against Disloyal ones= I hold that Promise Now from Quartermaster Meiggs in answer to a Letter of Feb 22nd 1862 from the Steamboat Cincinti Lying of cairo glls on which boat I have held the Position of chief Engineer From the day She was launched Nov 9 1861 to the Present Time and have fought with the christian comodore A H Foote at Ft henry Island No 10 Ft Pillow and D The american Sebastipool of Secession /viz/ Vicksburgh but Sir Excuse me I have digressed from my Design at the Start I will Refer you to the 3d auditor for My Standing as a man and an Engineer Mr Elijah Sells = Please answer and direct to New Richmond Clermont County OhioTo the Honorable Joseph Holt Judge advocate Washington D.C. very Respectfully your obent Servnt Wm D. McFarland act chief Engineer U.S.N. Dated on Board U.S. Stmr Genl. Grant off Bridgeport Alama. [*Mendota; Dane County, Wisconsin. Hon Joseph Holt My dear sir, My only hope of obtaining any indemnity for the losses I have sustained in consequence of the late rebellion, is through you, and although I have no claims upon you, I shall presume upon the perfect respect I have always felt for you as a Gentleman of high honor, and amiable heart, and as a man of ability, learning, and eloquence. I had been living ten years previously to the rebellion in my native county Culpeper Va--owned a beautiful farm under high cultivation, thirteen negroes, stock of every description, and in the midst of a numerous family connection -- Finding the State was about to secede I left, in April,1861, my State, property and friends -- I have not returned since, but learn that desolation*]reigns in that region. I have no regrets at the loss of my negroes; they were never of any profit to me and the responsibility of taking proper care of them was painful. I desire some civil position in the South under the Federal Government, and believe with my knowledge of those people, long association with them and extensive family connecion I could render the Government some service--If you think so please present my name to the President -- In politics I have always been a democrat in the best sense of that term--I have always considered secession as a fatal heresy and when quite young as a Member of the Legislature of Indiana I was the Author of the famous Indiana resolution in the winter of 1832-3 denouncing the nullification and threatened secession of South Carolina-- For those resolutions Gen Jackson kept me in office seven years--I rendered important service in the Federal army in Kentucky in Nov 1861, and in April 1862 was appointed Commissary of Subsistence which I resigned in October 1863, my health not allowing me to go into the field for duty. My daughter, who is only a child, and myself, both suffer from the effects of the extreme cold in the winter, and desire a Southern residence--We would return to our former home, but there is no house, no fence, no lumber and I have no means to repair the losses-- These things I suffer in common with my Countrymen and have made no complaint--I believe however I could render important services, in the South to the Country and naturally aid the President in carrying out his views--With great respect I am Sir Your friend & most Obt Sat W B Slaughter*][*Judge Holt My beloved father being taken away from us, I am obliged to earn my own livelihood. and should take it as a great act of kindness, if you could procure for me, a situation in one of the Departments, or some copying to do at home. Emily G. West *] [*6751*]Dear Sir It would give one a great pleasure to dine with you this afternoon I shall be ready at 5 o'clock-- Truly yours LB SeldenArgument addressed to the Supreme Court in case of [Milling and others] [Vall??] [?] in 1865 - Report made to the Secty of War [in] Augst 20th 1863, as to the right of the govt to intest colored men [into] slaves into the mil service Report to the President in case of Fountain Brown May 24 1864 Report to Prest on 30th May 1864 in case of [?] Bogan [*6753-4*]Report to Prest on 6th June 1864 in case of John J Glover alias Jake See & get copy of Report to Secty of War in care of D L [Yulee?] - held in confinement - 1865[*Sign this when we recover I will ask you, for yours. "I want your signature," as a male Heir. L.H. Secor. I have collected $1000, put it in a Bank. *] ............................................1865. I do hereby authorize Mrs. LYDIA HOLT SECOR, (wife of Charles A. Secor, 418 Fifth-Avenue, New-York, to pay over to Mr. J. W. Lewin, or such other agent as she may see fit to employ, the sum of twenty-five dollars, which I have placed in her hands ; the said sum of twenty-five dollars, however, to be retained by her until she shall have collected by similar subscriptions, or otherwise, the sum of five thousand dollars, and then to be paid over to the said J. W. Lewin, or other agent, upon his express undertaking in writing, forthwith to proceed to England for the purpose of prosecuting the search now set on foot by the said Lydia H. Secor and others, in order to ascertain whether or not there are in the British Dominions, and especially in England, any properties, monies, claims, or rights belonging, or supposed to belong to one or more HOLT families in America, and in order to trace out and establish on behalf of the said HOLT family or families in America the legal title therein and thereto; and I do hereby authorize the said Lydia H. Secor to engage and agree on my behalf, that should the said J. W. Lewin, or other agent selected by her, succeed in establishing and making manifest any right or claim on my part to any such property, funds or monies in the said British Dominions, I will place the value of such my share or right, (ten per cent. thereof having been first deducted as a commission to the said agent,) in the hands of the said Lydia H. Secor, to form part of a common fund to be divided equally, share and share alike, among all those who shall have, before the departure of the said agent from New-York on the said mission, actually joined in the subscription aforesaid, by paying a sum not less than twenty-five dollars into the hands of the said Lydia H. Secor, in Baw Tock, for the purposes aforesaid. Provided always, that the same sum or subscription of twenty-five dollars so placed by me in the hands of the said Lydia H. Secor shall not be paid over to any such agent so employed, unless he shall first have signed and delivered to the said Lydia H. Secor for me, a declaration and promise that he will not directly or indirectly impart or furnish any information which he may obtain touching the matters aforesaid to any other persons than those who shall have so subscribed and paid into the hands of the said Lydia H. Secor as aforesaid ; and that he has not, and will not make, any demand or claim upon me by reason of any matter or thing done or to be done by him in the premises, save for a commission in the case above specified; and further, that he will at regular intervals after his arrival in England, that is to say, at least every fortnight, report fully by letter, each and every his proceedings in the premises ; the said information to be sent direct to the said Lydia H. Secor, and that without loss of time, upon the return of the said agent to the United States, he shall furnish each one of the aforesaid subscribers with a detailed account or statement of his said proceedings in England, and of the information thereby gained ;“ and that the said agent shall bind himself to pay for any breach of his stipulation to act exclusively for the said subscribers, and to be silent towards all other persons, the sum of five hundred thousand pounds sterling, money of Great Britain, which shall and may be demanded and recovered from him by any one of the said subscribers by way a and as and for liquidated damages, and not as a penalty. Signed, sealed and delivered at the . one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four. Witness, [*Ten Cent a U. S. ; REVENUE STAMP REQUIRED AND CANCELLED.*] [*Chas Gates Holt her Majesty Counsellor made this for me, sent in his subscription*] [*6755-6*]Joseph Holt if you decline signing this for thy self. give your portion to me, or some charitable institution when receivedthat took the "Philo Parsons" and tried to sink the U.S. Steamer "Michigan" perhaps you remember reading about a couple of months ago, the Lady told me she was constantly traveling through the dates in disguise bringing dispatches from one place to another. I asked her if she was not afraid, she pulled out her Pistol and said "Not as long as I carry this" Canada is full of just such characters and they feasted all the time by the Canadians [*6757*]It makes me sick to hear them tell how they wish to see our southern home made desolate but -- I suppose you are weary of this talk -- You say your Frank writes ten pages well Walter has sent me some twenty eight pages at once. So you see mine are journals more than letters he sent me a large box of Nix Nacks as he is please to call them two boxes of paper stamped with "AK" a beautiful Gold pen and pencil, a lovelyLouisville January 1st. 1866 - Hon Joseph Holt Sir It affords me great pleasure to introduce to your acquaintance Capt. Julius Fosses. He has been in this locality for a long time - filling the position of assistant Inspector of Cavalry - With the Honest and loyal position of the people, Captain Fosses so far as I have heard & believe is regarded as an honest, Faithfull & truly loyal officer - of unsurpassed energy, showing a devotion to the Government, by exposing justly frauds by those who carry their loyalty in them pocket - you will find Capt. Fosses a Gentleman & scholar of fine cultivation with the nerve & honesty, to do his duty - reliable in every respect - I hope you may find it agreeable to your position & feelings to aid him, as I do not believe he would ask any thing he does not merit - [*7042*]anything you may do for him will be duly appreciated by your friend & humble servant. Yours truly & respectfully S. S. EnglishLouisville January 1st 1866 Hon. Joseph Holt, Dear Mr. Holt, For the first time for many years I can cordially congratulate upon the beginning of a happy New Year, with the confident hope of a prosperous year for the nation. If all has not been attained that should and might have been, our gains have been very great. I am inclined to think that Lee & his gang of traitors should have shattered by a well delivered battle, instead of being permitted to surrender. But I am rather diffident about criticizing Grant's acts in the field. Capt. Womack expects to be in Washington in a few days and I trust that something may be found for him. He has been a very friend of the government in its battle with treason and has been a hearty, zealous and efficient coworker with the administration in its entire policy. The Provost Marshalship of the 5th Congressional district in Ky, has just been closed. He has been very greatly injured, by the rebels, in his property. His barn was burned soon after he entered upon the duties of his office, which caused a loss of over four thousand dollars. Throughout the greater part of his service, he was unable even to visit his fame, and in that way his business suffered very greatly. If Mr. Stanton could make him him inspector of Cavalry, he would secure one of the best men I know of for that position. If that should fail, something may be found for him in the recent insurrectionary States. I will give him a letter of introduction to you when he starts to Washington, and if you can aid him in any way, your [pear] pearls will not be thrown before swine. May I ask of you a small favor? One of the most loyal of the hardworking men of this City, whose life has often been in peril for his Unionism, wishes for the sake of a helpless widow, a relative of his, to find out something about her son. His name is John Stafford. He was a volunteer in an Indiana regiment, and re-enlisted in either the 10th or 11th United States Cavalry. His family have not heard from him for a long time and are fearful that he is dead. If he has died in the service, I presume the fact may be ascertained at the Adjutant-General's office. Will you be kind enough to make inquiry for me so that I may inform my friends? He is one of your warmest admirers. He was in the Union Club the night you addressed the organization, and no one present was more thrilled with your speech than this worthy man. One other request I have been urged to make by a friend, to [*7043*]whom I am indebted for many acts of Kindness. He is a devoted friend of Stuart Robinson, who exiled himself to Canada, and who was one of the most blatant rebels of that lively gang who sought Canada as a front place for their operations. The question I have been requested to submit to you is, whether there are charges against him at Washington that would cause his arrest, if he undertakes to return here? You are the sole judge of the propriety of answering that question. If it is proper for you to give any answer I will obliged to you for a response, if not, I, of course, do not want an answer. We are trying to arrange places for an amendment to the law of March 3rd 1863, by which persons who claim to have done acts, for which they are sued in the State Courts, under [color] orders from the President or under acts of Congress, or under color of orders or acts of Congress, may Isititim the District Judge for transfer of trial to the United States Courts. The petition of course would set forth the facts of the case to the Judge, and if they sustained the plea, we wish him authorised by act of Congress to order a writ of Certiorari & have the case transferred. If upon trial the petition is not sustained, the case may be remanded to the State Court. Something of this kind is very essential in Kentucky. Can you not help us to frame a suitable amendment that will perfectly secure justice? A Union official in Kentucky would stand a poor chance before the majority of the State Courts in Kentucky. Do look mercifully upon us & help us in our straits. I am not personally concerned in this matter. The only case I have is already provided for in the act, which we wish a minded. I am, as ever, faithfully yours T. S. Bell.[*34*] Form No. 2. THE AMERICAN TELEGRAPH CO. CONNECTING ALL THE PRINCIPAL CITIES AND TOWNS OF THE UNITED STATES Terms and Conditions on which this and all Messages are received by this Company. In order to guard against and correct as much as possible some of the errors arising from atmospheric and other causes appertaining to telegraphy, every important message should be REPEATED, by being sent back from the station at which it is to be received to the station from which it is originally sent. Half the usual price will be charged for repeating the message, and while this Company in good faith will endeavor to send messages currently and promptly, it will not be responsible for errors or delays in the transmission or delivery, nor for the non-delivery of REPEATED MESSAGES beyond TWO HUNDRED times the sum paid for sending the message, unless a special agreement for insurance be made in writing, and the amount of risk specified on this agreement, and paid for at the time of sending the message. Nor will the Company be responsible for any error or delay in the transmission or delivery, or for the non-delivery, of ANY UNREPEATED MESSAGE. beyond the amount paid for sending the same, unless a like manner specially insured, and amount of risk stated hereon, and paid for a the time. No liability is assumed for errors in ipher or obscurely written messages; nor is any liability assumed by this Company for any error or neglect by any other Company over whose lines this message may be sent to reach its destination and this Company for any error or neglect by any other Company message to forward it over the lines extending beyond those of this Company. No agent or employee is allowed to vary these terms, or make any other or verbal agreement, nor any promise as to the time of performance. and no one but a superintendent is authorized to make a special agreement for insurance. These terms apply through the whole course of this message on all lines by which it may be transmitted. CAMBRIDGE LIVINGSTON, Sec'y. MARSHALL LEFFERTS, Eng. E. S. Sanford, Pres't 2W Dated Lebanon Ky 1st 186[5]6 Received at Washington, Jany 2d To Hon Jos Holt Lizzie has been ill with Typhoid Pneumonia for two weeks is anxious to hear from you. She is very sick. R. C. McChord Locall 405 pd 350 [*7044*]Midshipmen's Ball. First Class United States Naval Academy, The pleasure of your company is requested on Friday evening, January 5th, 1866. Committee A. A. Blair. J. S. Morse. W. T. Burwell. A. S. Sprague. L. W. Very. [*7045*] Salineville Columbiana County Ohio January 5th 66, Judge Advocate General Your telegram recd. A few moments ago. I hasten to reply, I will now answer your questions, namely what do you know about G. Mercer, I will now make use of the same words that he did when giving his orders for the execution, Bring out several of them damned Yankees and I'll hang them higher than Hernan and send them to hell where they belong, and they soon brought out and hanged on the spot without A moments warning. This is all the information I can give you, and that bad enough, Yours very Respectfully, William Nevins Salineville Ohio [*7046*]Hon Mr. Holt Dear friend Please accept this small token of esteem with the sincere wish that you may enjoy many happy years of your useful life. Truly yours Julie Schoepf Sportland January 6th [*7047*]Dudington Place January 6th Hon Joseph Holt Dear friend The many and hurried events of the present age seem almost to confuse and rob Time of its peculiar stand points, and dates, so that we scarcely realize that we are again on the Anniversary of your Nativity, for which we offer sincere and joyful greetings with best wishes for many happy returns. To us, in one sense, we seem to have encompassed a Cycle of years, in another but a few months. Our solicitudes and cares in establishing a home for ourselves and little ones Our two removals and [*7048*]other incidents give a horizon of varied hues. We feel however that it is only a repetition of human history. A retrospect of the past brings to our view your years experience tinctured or perhaps well mingled with a portion of — What shall I say? The tonics of public life? Yes I will adopt that expression for persecution proves a powerful strengthener to great minds and serves marvelously to keep up an equilibrium as occasion demands. Now don't think us stoical or unsympathetic for it would be esteemed a great privilege in case of need to pour out on you all the sympathy that two great human hearts could bestow We enjoy the opinion that under Providence you are self sustaining and that you can work out your own problems better than your friends can do it for you "There is a peace that dwells within the breast When all without is stormy and distrest; There is a light that gilds the darkest hour When dangers thicken and when tempests lower That calm, to faith and hope and love is given That peace remains when all beside is riven That light shines down to man direct from Haven" Hoping that the New Year will be crowded with continued and increased favors from the Great Father I remain your sincere friend Julie Schoepf [*Jan 6*] Dear Judge We cannot resist indulging in the agreeable sensations produced by occasionally wearing our grateful emotions into some some little visible and tangible form for your acceptance. In the present case if Spirit and matter could submit to analyzation you would find embodied in the small compass of a pair of slippers a field of pleasurable thoughts all mingled and interwoven through those minute stitches telling of kindly wishes for the happiness [*7049*]and many anniversaries of that favored day (the 6th of January as we have been informed) to our best earthly friends — With high esteem yours Julie Schoepf Fort Delaware January 6th To Hon Joseph Holt Washington D CForm 14. Adams Express Company, GREAT EASTERN, WESTERN, AND SOUTHERN EXPRESS FORWARDERS. Cloverport Ky Jan 8 1866 RECEIVED OF W H Bowmer On box containing gold watch & chain $130.00 Marked to Hon J. Holt Washington City D C Which it is mutually agreed is to be forwarded to our Agency nearest or most convenient to destination only, and there be delivered to other parties to complete the transportation. It is part of the consideration of this contract, and it is agreed, that the said Express Company ARE FORWARDERS ONLY, and are not to be held liable or responsible for any loss or damage to said property while being conveyed by the CARRIERS to whom the same may be by said Express Company intrusted, or arising from the dangers of Railroads, Ocean or River Navigation, Steam, Fire in Stores, Depots, or in Transit, Leakage, Breakage, or from any cause whatever, unless, in every case, the same be proved to have occurred from the fraud or gross negligence of said Express Company, or their servants ; nor in any event shall the holder hereof demand beyond the sum of FIFTY DOLLARS, at which the article forwarded is hereby valued, unless otherwise herein expressed, or unless specially insured by them, and so specified in this receipt, which insurance shall constitute the limit of the liability of the Adams Express Company. And if the same is intrusted or delivered to any other Express Company or Agent,(which said Adams Express Company are hereby authorized to do), such Company or person so selected shall be regarded exclusively as the agent of the shipper or owner, and, as such, alone liable, and the Adams Express Company shall not be in any event responsible for the negligence or non-performance of any such Company or person. All articles of GLASS, or contained in glass, or any of a fragile nature, will be taken at Shipper's risk only, and the Shipper agrees that the Company shall not be held responsible for any injury by breakage or otherwise, nor for damage to goods not properly packed and secured for transportation. It is further agreed that said Company shall not in any event be liable for any loss, damage or detention caused by the acts of God, Civil or Military Authority, or by Rebellion, Piracy, Insurrection, or Riot, or the dangers incident to a time of war. FREIGHT. For the Company, John D Babbage Agent [*7049-a*] [*Clvepot Ky Jan 8*] 186[*6*] I accept the conditions of the within Receipt and further agree to release the ADAMS EXPRESS COMPANY from any and all liability for the condition of, or care for, the property within receipted for, after the same shall have arrived at the point to which it is to be forwarded under the terms of the receipt--accepting the transportation of said property to the point designated as a full discharge of the said Company's obligations under this contract, and releasing it from all other liabilities and obligations, whether as forwarders, common carriers, or as bailees. [*Wm Bauser*] This Contract must be taken in duplicate, and a copy filed in the office at which it is made. Form 14 B. Media January 9th1866 Maj Genl. Joseph Holt Judge Advocate Genl. U.S.A Washington DC Dear Sir Upon my arrival here I enquired of my wife whether the name was "Chatman or Chapman! She says it is Chapman, spelled with a "p" instead of a, T, and that she understood that his home was in Jackson Miss. "Lewis S Chapman" is his name. I think there can be no doubt about his name, and if you can find him, he can furnish valuable information. Very Respectfully Your Obedient Servant J B Merritt MD [*7050*] "Media Delaware Co Pa"Rodney Jany 9th 1866 Hon Jos Holt Sir You who have already been gracious enough to reply to my two former notes, will scarcely refuse to allow me the honor of addressing you for a third time upon the subject so long under discussion. From your first communication I am satisfied that nothing except the precedent that you are pleased to term "a positive rule of Law" stands between me &, my rights This is certainly a very chilling conviction & one that I would long hesitate and accepting upon any less convincing testimony than your own — The decision is ----- I must wait, & though, keenly alive to the importance of expedition, &, suffering, from the pressure of time, I will wait — I will suffer, if the sacrifice will bring success without my yielding one iota of my original position, [*7051*]To me, this is not a mere question of finance I wish my own ambitions gratified by an official acknowledgment of the rights of him who was the government's most loyal vassal. Thus, as a consequent, will follow my own rights as his only daughter, his best loved child, in which relationship centers all my pride. The question of compensation is one that Congress cannot entirely ignore & the policy of a government must in great measure be shaped by the will of its chief — & have we not every thing to hope from him whom a dispensation of Providence has placed at the head of the nation? He cannot go out from among us and act against us, I cannot be persuaded that he will turn a deaf ear to the cry of his people, for we are his people, & our profoundest interests, & ultimate destiny, are identified with his own, If the national council should decide, that in order to enable treason sufficiently terrible, it is necessary to treat all as traitors who remained on their property that chanced to be within the borders of the territory over which conspirators ursurped jurisdiction, I acknowledge that I am not philosopher enought to accept such a decision, or even to witness with equinimity the unqualified triumph of so abstract a theory — To those who upon the shattered pretexts, conspire against constitutional law — those who were never moved by a higher impulse, nor a nobler principle, than self interest, disaster and defeat was sent as a punishment, but I have done nothing to be punished for — And is it to be wondered at, that I murmur when the chastening rod is hard upon me? Should Congress appropriate a sum for the reimbursement of loyal citizens shall all applicants have to place their claims in the hands of the representatives of their respective districts? I hope not: I could not consent to such generalization. I look upon mine as apeculiar claim — one that scarcely has a parallel in the whole of quandam Secessia, & I would almost prefer relinquishing it altogether than to have it stripped of its individuality, or to have its outlines defaced by a junior with the consolidated claim of a constituancy. I cannot just that I am acting alone for the living, but that my best of post to secure success to this petition is a necessary vindication of the dead. You too generously accredit to me attributes or attainments to which I would scarcely have dared to lay claim though I have sometimes indulged in self- gratulation. that if but scantily blessed with sentiment the little I possess is never allowed to degenerate into sentimentality & if minus the pure gold of philosophy I am equally free from its gilded, counterfeit sophistry. With renewed assurances of gratitude & respect - I am sincerely Yrs Winnie WilcoxClooerpart Jan 9th My Dear Uncle I expect you think I have been quite careless about sending the watch, but I have been sick and it was neglected during my illness. Mr Borvener expressed it yesterday and you must write and let me know if it reaches you safely, as I shall feel quite anxious until I hear. I have a little daughter Lizzie, your first great niece She is so pretty and smart that I think if you were to make a special visit to Ky to see her, you would feel yourself well paid. Dear Uncle you must not think you are any the less loved by Billie and myself on account of politics, for Mother taught me to reverence and love you always as her dear brother and to know you were so much entitled to your opinions no one more. I wish you would come to see us, would like so {*7052*}much for you to know my husband. Write to me soon your loving neice Maggie.Hardinsburg Jany. 10th 1866 D. Sir. In a few days — after my last to you, I spoke to Col. Allen, in regard to the Jenings debt — and he told me that they would settle it in the Spring — The Chicago land, or land near Chicago, will I suppose bring the amt of the debt — It was offered for it in his lifetime $5,000 — And it is worth no doubt considerably more now. Allen said they would sell it and pay — This conversation was before the rect of your last, urging immediate legal steps — The [devi??] by It of his lands was to his children with power to Executors to sell — The Judgmt against the executors — is to be made of Assets in their hands as such Execution cannot be levied, on the [7203*]lands of Jr and no other assets can be reached — The next legal step would be to institute an action against the executors & devisees of Jr seeking a sale of the real estate — I hope this will be unnecessary & believe the debt is good — I know of no other debts against the estate and suppose there are none of any magnitude — Allen has a pretty good property — and I suppose would not have paid out other creditors — as yrs is a preferred debt, unless there were ample assets — as he would be in such case personally liable — I would prefer — under the circumstances, to indulge them till spring — but of course, will obey your instructions — given upon knowledge of the above facts — Col Allen seemed somewhat surprised — when I informed him — there were doubts as to whether he was entitled to the 300 acres near town — I referred him to the authorities to which I gave you reference — He still thinks he has right & will probably insist on it The tract of land on the river has a front of 46 poles — and runs back up the two creeks to embrace the quantity — If divided it would give to each share a front of 23 poles — and from the best information I can get, neither part would embrace arable land — Sufficient for a farm — I have agreed to let Reynolds have yr share at $13.50 pr acre — And altho it is much lower than river lands generally — yet I think it was pretty well sold — It was listed for taxation at about $5 pr acre — I have to day concluded a sale of our half of a 386 acre tract lying near Perrius — Scaggs, Pool for $1,000 — being something over$5 p acre — $300- Cash in hand & the residue payable in 1, 2 & 3 years bearing interest from date — I think the payments will be puctually made. I have occasional chances of forwarding money to Louisville and will avail myself of these — Small sums will not justify a trip to Louisville — but I can deposit in bank there to yr credit — will that do? Reynolds has an account w y Aunt for board. It is proved by a line in her handwriting, on the back of an obligation for rent — the amt is I think $30 of $60- He has also an account against her for putting up an addition to the house — that is proved by witnesses as to the agreement and value Jas. G. Stephens holds a note on her he informs me for, I think, $150 — and probably some claims for funeral expenses. These are all the debts I have heard of against the estate — There does not seem to be any considerable demand for land at present — No immigration not enough, so far, to supply the place of them who have left — The sales will have to be made generally to persons owning land adjoining & frequently by division of tracts Yrs Jesse. W. Kincheloe Custom House Phila Pa. Jany 10, 1866 Hon Joseph Holt Judge Advocate General War Department Wahn. D. C. Sir: Will you please send me a few copies of the argument in the case of Nisz by Levl. Chipman, also a few more copies of Judge Bingham's argument as I find that people are very anxious to read it. Very Respectfully, your ohdt Servant, Junior Mc Weihmann [*7054*]National Bank of Commerce in New York. January 11th 1866 J. Holt Esqr Washington D.C. Dear Sir As desired in yours of 10th inst I enclose dividend check to your order for amount of your January divident on shares in this Bank - say $640. Yours respectfully Sam. C. Moore for the Cashier [*7053*]Louisville January 11th i1866 Hon. Joseph Holt, Dear Sir, Agreeably to the promise in my recent letter to you, I present to your acquaintance, esteem and confidence my friend, Capt. G. N. Womack, late Provost Marshal of the 5th Congressional District of Ky. He is worthy of all the Kindness you can bestow on him, & will fulfill any amount of confidence you may bestow on him. I am, as ever, very truly yours T. H. Bell. [*7056*]New York 13 Jan 1866 My dear Sir, I had this moment - 1/2 past five - P.M. - your telegraph of to-day. The letter of Ld St Vincent (Jarvis) is in his life, a volume published say 15 years ago, or so. The letter is toward the end of the book and begins = Ld St Vincent finds no words to express his [hor] abhorrence as - and this is pretty much the whole [*7057*]letter. I write from memory, but remember this very decidedly. Congress Library ought to have the Life of Admiral Jarvis, [L??] St Vincent. I shall be in Washington on Tuesday evenig Very Truly Yours Francis LieberWASHINGTON CITY, 13th January, 1866. Sir: The Washington City Bible Society respectfully extends to you and your family its cordial invitation to be present on the occasion of the delivery in this city of one of the Jubilee Sermons, which have been prepared at the instance of the American Bible Society, now in the fiftieth year of its existence. The first discourse of the series, in this city, will be delivered in the Hall of the House of Representatives, at 11 o'clock, a. m., Sabbath, 14th instant, by Rev. Thomas E. Vermilye, D. D., of New York. M. H. MILLER, Secretary [*7058*]Austin, Texas, Jan'y 14th 1866. Hon: Jos Holt My dear Sir, It may be of some interest to you to know what the progress of reconstruction is in this State. and what the temper and disposition of the people appears to be in reference to the New Govm't, as manifested in the recent election of delegates to the Convention. Of the results of this election, we know but little as yet, as it came off only a few days ago. From this county (Francis) Judge Hancock has been elected over Gov'r Pease — Both are Union men, but the former is sore headed and discontented about the result of Slavery. Hence, in addition to the votes of many Union men, disaffected like himself on this subject, he got the almost unanimous support of the Secession element. Judge Bell has probably been beaten by a few votesfor floater from this & Williamson Counties, by a man who was strongly Secesh. One cause of this was that several Union men were candidates which caused a division of the Union vote, while the Secessionists concentrated on the man they regarded as their candidate. From Bexar County, in which San Antonio is situated, I understand Judge I A. Paschal and another Unionist has been elected. Very little interest seemed to be manifested here, about this election. In this county, more than a thousand voters had taken the amnesty oath, [*7059*]and been duly registered- yet not more than two thirds voted. Which will, probably, have been the case over the State generally. Out of the large number of those who have not voted, a majority of them (Union men) have been deterred, because they thought it would be of no use, believing that Congress would establish a new rule for reconstruction, and that the Convention, if it met at all, could do nothing under the operation of this new rule. For myself I thought otherwise, and tried to induce all my friends to vote, for reasons which will be obvious to you. From the best knowledge and information I have, I think there will be sent to the Convention, which meets on the 7th Feb'y, a considerable number of men (perhaps a majority) who will be, at heart, rebellious and hostile to the union. But I am equally satisfied that body, whether willingly or not, will do all that they may know to be necessary for the reconstruction of the State. I believe I know the policy of those who now head rebelsentiment of this State. It is, to do whatever is required for the restoration of its status as such, and then to bring all the influence they can in order to control and direct its political machinery in there own hands. If this cannot be done in their own hands solely, they will take up union men, discontented about the extinction of slavery (and who to that extent are their friends & sympathizers) and try to fill with both classes, all important offices in the State, as well as those in Congress. In this I believe they can only partially succeed, for with the restoration of the State to her original status, there will be a thorough organization of the Union party here, and unless I am greatly deceived, it will, in the main, be strong enough to control the State. Apart from the large majority of late slave owners, and the crowd of demagogues and political leaders, who lost power by the result of the war and would like to regain it, I do sincerely believe that the mass of the people in Texas have taken the amnesty oath in good faith, and intend to support the Govm't and its policy as indicated thus far through the President. I trust therefore, that Congress will sustain the President in the policy he seems to be anxious to carry out. The people of the South have to be trusted at sometime or other, or the rebellious states must be held and governed as conquered territories for an indefinite period. If the latter could be adopted, will it not intensify and increase the disloyal feeling prevailing today? I fear it will. It seems to me the true policy is this:- That where a State, acting through her Convention, has done all that she knows to be required of her in order to regain her old position in the Union, Congress ought to admit her to such position. But, at the same time, if she sends men as members of Congress, whom that body do not recognize, or are not willing to must as loyal men, they ought to reject them. This Congresshas the right to do, as being the judges of the election and qualification of their own members. Disloyal members thus rejected and sent back home, would soon have their places filled by men who would be acceptable I have thought much about the wisdom — the practical working of what is called here the "Presidents plan of reconstruction". It will give some dissatisfaction for the present but, in the end, will work wisely and well. Under all the circumstances his course of policy towards the rebel States, so far as indicated, is eminently just & wise and I sincerely hope that Congress may unite with him in it. A conflict between the two branches of the Government would be most disastrous. It would be better, even, that the President should yield, if necessary to some ideas that Congress might entertain rather than such a conflict should occur. But I hope the President will be sustained in his policy. If so, I believe all will come right after a while. If he is not, there will be a state of feelings existing in the South that will make it almost as unpleasant for a Union man to remain here such was during the war. Not that I think there will be another attempt at armed opposition to the Government, but there will be such a condition of society here, that I for one, would try to get North of "Mason & Dixon's" line. Especially would I deprecate any action on the part of Congress that would force immediate negro suffrage upon the Southern States. I do not apprehend this, but many do, and it produces a feeling of great anxiety. I will say one thing that Congress ought to do in reference to the negro — that is to keep a superintending control through some means or other, over his welfare. It will not do to leave this to the mercy of State legislation. No matter how just and philanthropic such legislation might be, it would not be practically carried out. You and I, who are Southern men, know that they would not meet with justice, if left to the exclusive control of the States where slavery has existed. I fear I have bored you with a long letter about matters of which you are sick and tired. But I am living where they directly concern me, and this must be my excuse. My family are all in good health. Aunt Polly holds her own wonderfully for a woman of her age. For myself I feel quite unsettled. There being no organization of the County yet, I am restless and unquiet. Please present my kindest regards to W Seward. I would be glad to hear from you when you have leisure and inclination to write. Your's most truly T H. Duval (over) [*7559-a*]Since writing the foregoing, I see that a resolution on a bill introduced by Mr Ashley, of Ohio, has passed the House by a large majority, creating the Southern States into territories to be governed by military law, and making reconstruction dependent on the suffrage of the people without regard to color. If it becomes a law, of course it will be forcing negro suffrage on the people of the South. A measure of this sort will goad them to desperation and madness. Such is the antagonism of feeling on the part of the White race to the negro, that nothing but a powerful military force in every southern state will prevent scenes of violence and bloodshed. And I doubt whether this would suffice. Congress may and should do what it considers proper to protect the freedmen in his rights of life, liberty and property, but to make hime a voter without the consent of the people in the South, and against the wishes of 99 out of 100, will I fear, be most disastrous to the peace of the country and to the negro himself. If any thing can produce a war of races this will. I hope I may be mistaken in this. So far as I am concerned myself, I have no particular objection to the negro voting except their ignorance. Before I got back to the State and since, I have said I would favor negro suffrage, if by that means, and that alone. loyal state Governments could be secured. This is still my feeling. But it is the results of the thing I fear more than any bad effects caused simply by the voting of the negro. To make the right available strong bodies of armed troops will have to be present at every point where polls are opened to protect the negroes, and prevent bloodshed. I suppose Congress will probably reorganize the judiciary generally, and of course changes will take place in that of Texas. However this may effect me, I can only say that the Courts ought to be organized as soon as possible. In no way can the authority of the Govm't make itself felt in so salutary a move, as through that medium. yrs truly T H. DuvalStephensport Ky Jany 14th 1866 Hon Joseph Holt Washington City Sir allow me to intrude on your time By a few lines Hoping this may find you in good health enjoying all that man could want to aspire to in this world high in station and office & society and surrounded wealth almost immeasurable all this you have work your way By your own exertions and the gift that the Great god has given you not so with your humble writer some respects as my Parents were in humble circumstances they could not afford to give me an education that I desired having to labour for a lively hood consequently I have had to do on what I could gather By my own means mostly since I grew to be a man I have laboured in evry way that I devise to get along with that and above all to maintain a good reputation in [*7060-1*]Society and an honest name this thus far I have done I laboured to maintain [to maintan] in [the man] the government in the great struggle just past which I do hope is settled forever I have had my Property taken By Guerrillas and carry of By the quantity and these desperados have nearly Broken me up as I had a dry goods Store they run me out and today find me unable to labour to support a small dependent Family By reason of chronic Rheumatism of Seven years Standing Seeing that or thinking that you was able to assist me in some way that would not injure you that you could spare some means for a time to reinstate me in business so that I could make a living as I know you have ample means at your command but whether you like to risk a stranger is the question for you to solve I know that in the bequest by aunt Mary Ann Stephens there is Property that you could share and [and] never miss it and bestow it on one that would ever bless and be grateful for it to you knowing this is what turned my [?] me towards you for assistance as we are discendants of the same Lineage and Bearing your Paternal grandfathers name I thought you might bestow on me a portion of the bequest just for a namesake you can think of this at your Leasure and act the impulses of your own heart and do what you would have another or me do for you in like circumstances and so farewell with respect and hope to hear from you soon Richard. S. SeatonOffice of Riggs & Co. Washington, D. C., 15 Jan 1866 Dear Sir Our New York friend sent us as follows "We "have had an order from you "for sometime par for 14 "share RK Commerce [?] &c "Judge Holt limited at "108. Since the order is as "[?ed] a dividend of 5% "has been declared on the "Stocks and this morning "losing sight of the Divident "C & Co bought 14 Shares "@104 or equal to 109. - "dividend on, they do not "ask us to take it, but "give in the option of "doing so or not, and [*7062*]"await your or Judge "Holts decision in the "matter. Please favor us with your views Yours Tr Robert S. Forde Judge Holt [?]P.O. Washington D.C. January 17th 1866. Hon. J. Holt Judge Advocate Genl Dear Sir: I have six friends from Michigan - three ladies and three gentleman, who wish to visit Ford's Theatre before they leave the city and look upon the spot where President Lincoln was assassinated. Secretary Harlan informed us that you were the proper person to apply to for a permit to visit the theater. If so and it is consistent with your usage and rules to do so I would be very much obliged if you would furnish me with a permit for the six persons referred to and for myself and wife who will accompany them. Truly yours &c S. J. Bowen P.M. [*7063*]Lebanon Jan 17 Dear Sir: Permit me to introduce to you my Friend George Riley who comes to Washington on Buisiness he is termed here a Kentucky radical any thing you may do for him will be highly appreciated by me We are all well your - Friend R C McChord [*7064*]Hardinsburg Jan. 17. 1866 Dear Sir — James. G. Stephens seems very desirous to purchase yr lands — and if not all-such at least as youhold jointly — For your entire interest he offers $5,000. in cash — and for your interest in joint lands_$1500- I told him as a trading operation — I could not make such sales or even advise it, but at his request promised to submit the proposition to you — My opinion is, he does not offer one fourth of the saleable value of this land — I have not yet been offered less than double this assessed value for any of the land, and have so far declined taking several offers — believing I could do better — He depreciates this land very much as broken sterile and unsaleable as you may infer from his offer — And is only induced to purchase, he says, because his lands lie Contiguous — and he could as well attend to the whole as to part of it — I do not think I shall be able to sell very rapidly — unless below the prices — which I think the land ought to bring — and will I think bring after while — May we not look for an increase of our farming population soon, and of course an enhancement of the value of lands — I have not yet recd yr power of attorney — It would save some expense of stamps & to convey as I sold I have been taking the "Union Press" which has ceased to be published, for want of sufficient patronage — [*7065*]Its place ought by all means to be supplied by some paper ably edited — [and] which will defend the right — The Louisville Journal, is doing pretty well at present, but it changes too much - The Democrat & Courier are filled with spite & hate against the government — and are doing mischief. The Conservatives and rebels are carrying everything before them — and consistent Union men, have the gratification of seeing their country saved, & themselves ostracized — You will oblige me — by sending me, the best weekly — or triweekly paper published in Washington — I would take a daily but we have mail, but three times a week, a weekly or triweekly will do — I will remit you the money, when I ascertain the [amt] price of subscription — I have been a member of the Methodist Church upwards of 37 years — I of course first joined the M. E. Church, when the division occurred — I went into the Southern organization for peace sake — Now, when I see the whole Southern Church went into the rebellion if they did not materially aid in originating it — when the Conferency, [?] since the rebellion has been suppressed, make a merit of treason — by giving good appointments to men, who bore arms against their government, requiring no confession nor penitence, no ablutions — and when the church South -through its presentations, endeavoring to kindle and perpetuate sectional strife & hate I feel it to be my duty to retrace my steps and go back to the old church, that I may place myself in harmony with the Methodist people throughout the U. S. I am now in favor of blotting out all sectional lines and perpetuating or creating an American brotherhood — I feared mischief & suffering would follow the sudden change of the labor system of our County, but have been very agreeably disappointed — The change has been generally acquiesced in, and has gone off quietly — The Negros dont seem to be afraid of labor — but have sought for & obtained employment at tolerably fair prices generally, but below the price obtained for them as slaves.— I think the contracts have been generally made by the year — some by the month — and some few rely upon daily labor — In some instances the white man, has obtained the services of the Negro for what will barely clothe them, and it may be, that is such cases & probably in some others the Negros may become discontented & leave their employers — But I hope there will be but few such cases — I believe the Negros generally, will comply with their contracts — if the whites act fairly & justly toward them — Some however will probably bedelinquent — for I take it for granted, that a trifling vicious slave will not make a very good freeman — and that a faithful slave will make an honest and respectable freeman — In short I am of opinion there is a god deal of human nature in a negro — bond or free, waiting to write you on the subject of Stephens proposition, and having some leisure — I have taken a little wider scope than usual — if you are at leisure, it may not be unacceptable — I wrote you of some claims against my aunts estate — Mr. Stephens named another to me the other day — The tract of land on this river was owned jointly by the Dorseys & yr aunt — He says she has collected all the rents and the Dorseys wish their share of it. He is the agent of the Dorseys — Whether this claim is just or not — I am not advised — and told him so — but that if just — it should of course be settled — I suggested that probably my Aunt had made the improvements — he did not know Yours Jesse. W. Kincheloe The letter was detained in P. O. & I add I have recd. the Po. atta- I yesterday sold 300 acres in Harden for $900 — lst $300 due 15th Apr next the other 1 & 2 years thereafter. Reynolds has closed his trade at $13.50 per acre paying $110. cash — the legacy & devise are both I believe subject to duty — The legacy will probably have to be listed & paid here — while you attend to the devise of lands — or shall I for you, yrs Jesse W Kincheloe3 Office U. S. Military Telegraph, WAR DEPARTMENT. The following Telegram received at Washington, 1 P.M. Jany 18 1866 From New York " " 1866 Hon Jos Holt J A Genl Have examined all the principal Libraries. The book is not to be found but I find its name of the Catalogue of the Boston Public Library. Howard Crosby No 306 ; 2nd Ave 26 Cal 181 Prof. W. E. Gillson [*U.S. MILITARY [?]. [?]. JAN 18 1866 TELEGRAPH.*] [*7066*]Howard CrosbyBalt Jan 18th 1866 Hon Joseph Holt, Sir I see that in Charleston they are arresting and imprisoning parties for running the blockade during the late rebellion— also seizing the effects of that traffic — now it was to be expected that such things should occur in the heart of the rebellion, but in the loyalty of Balt how many similar cases occurr'd where the parties made immense money and no notice has been taken of it. I believe it the duty of every true lover of the union to bring these cases to light. Jno J Wight a man of considerable wealth, living on Monument St, sent a man by the name of Nick Penniman down to Richmond two years ago or more with cigars and sold them for the sum of one hundred & ninety dollars per hundred This has been known by many but because he had money & influence it has been kept in the dark. The same man was arrested several times during the rebellion for disloyalty to the government, but bought off the parties each time and consequently was released. This man has an office at the store of Penniman & Brother hardware merchants on Howard St. I am a poor mechanic have fought for this union throughout the war come home poor, dependent upon my daily labor for a support therefore I am afraid to come out openly and expose these parties but I do believe they ought to be punished and have this money taken from them to defray government expenses. I address this made to you because I believe you to be the man for the times to punish treason I have not done it through malice but merely to benefit the government whose interest is my greatest wish and I trust you will bring these parties to punishment Yours &c Soldier [*7067*][??] official Head Quarters, Department of the Missouri, Judge Advocate's Office, St. Louis, Jany 19 186[5]6 Maj. Genl Jos Holt J. A. G. Washington General This matter you some days since Newspaper reports of proceedings in the Habeas Corpus Case (John G. Parks), and now enclose paragraph from this morning's Missouri Republican, from which [*7068*]it would appear that Judge[Brinser's?] decision is neither looked upon favorably by the bar nor likely to be supported by the State Executive. — I am, General with great Respect Yr Obt. Servt [?]. [?] Moline [?] Harrodsburgh, Jan: 19th I am under inexpressible obligation to Judge Holt for his kindness & trouble in my behalf, relative to my supposed claim upon Mr Worthington's estate. If I have no legitimate right to it I am perfectly satisfied, & can say I read your letter without an emotion of disappointment. I am glad the subject was investigated, for had I thought myself justly entitled to the property, & yet deprived of it, I should have felt much restlessness & dissatisfaction — now that I am assured, from undoubted authority, that I am justly excluded, I can acquiesce in the decision with perfect tranquillity of mine, & say "Fiat justitia, mat codum" — I am too a strict optimist & believe, "Whatever is, is right" — And no matter what occurs, or how much I regret it, still, I can become resigned to the most afflictive dispensations of God's providence. [*7069*]I believe in God's especial care over us in every respect. I often have great contempt for the world, & the things of the world, & sometimes glory in my privations & sorrows, thinking like the martyrs of old "it better fits me for the kingdom of heaven". Poverty is a great evil where our desires are expansive — but when we can regulate & control these with a firm will & Christian grace, we could be happy with Diogenes if confined to a tub — All my wishes are not gratified, for there are many thing I want that I have not the means to obtain, but so far as a life of ease is concerned, there is no one has less exertion to make. Until the last day or two we have had ten Servants about the house — now Pa is hiring out some two or three of them. Then I have plenty of books to read, & I do nothing but read, & practice my music — write letters and entertain my friends — This is, however, a dull monotonous life to lead, & I would much prefer living in a gay city and enjoy something that would always cheer the heart & enliven the Spirits — One particular cause of my desire to obtain this property. There is a gentleman — young — handsome — talented to whom I have been engaged matrimonially for three or four months, & only intended marrying him provided I had a fortune — Now, I have not I will dismiss the case, without farther questioning, & "with vacant heart, hand & eye, easy live, & quiet die"— We will all be perfectly independent at my Father's death, there are only three children of us & until then I have a home & a competency So "be gone dull care" and let the mind roam & expatiate over all that can attract & delight the senses — Well, I am most happy to hear from you and realy proud thatyou forget your toils and your cares, and turn your attention westward long enough to devote a few pages to your devoted friend - & hope you may still continue to hold me in this kind remembrance - Indeed I should be delighted to see you in Kentucky and have you a guest at my own home . In readg over "The Discourse", some weeks ago, I was forcibly struck with the similarity in your character to that of Algernon Mordaunt . Did you never think of it? I read it with much pleasure& interest, knowing it was your favorite novel . What a pity that a mind like yours - so capable of appreciating the highest order of literary works, should be swallowed up by politics & parties. Your aesthetic tastes are very incompatible with your office- Write soon, will you? Yours most Truly Mary H. BowmanWar Department, Archive Office, Washington, D. C. Jan. 20, 1866 My dear Sir, Will you have the goodness of sending me a copy of St. Vincent's letter with page, vol. and title of the book. One of your aids can easily copy it. Please indicate also all the other requested offers of acquisition. In oratory, it might well be stated that Jeff Davis [?] like the fiendish Philip and the Spaniard's when Gerard offered to opressi make Wm of Napan - that double afar of Washington. Please send me the reply to New-York of course, you will let me have a copy of your report as soon as any one besides the President may have a copy. Very truly yours Francis Lieber My N. York address: Francis Lieber LLD 48 East 34th PresWashington Jan 20/66. Hon Joseph Holt Dear Sir: Will you be cind enough to recite me a few Lines of Recommendation to President Johnson. I wud leike to goh as American Consul, to Bremen in Germany, I nae that I can get along there, of I can get the Apoinment from the President. I have serval Frinds, that will see the President for me, of you will be cind enough to reite a few Linds, to him, and recomend me. I bin in thies Cuntery for the last 27 Jahrs, and bin allways true, and legal to the Goverment. Will you be so cind, and let me have the Letter by Monday, for my Frinds wud leike to see the President on Monday at 1 oclock for me, and wanted me of possibel, to get a Recomadition from you by then. Please send me a [ctnever?] by Barer, wat you can due for me, I will doe all in my Power to repay you, of you will due me that favor. Respetfully Yours Joseph H. Shaffield Confectioner 386. 6th St. [*7071*]AUCTION SALES. BY WM. L. WALL & CO. AUCTIONEERS, Stores 315 & 317 south corner of Pa. ave. & 9th st. SPECIAL AND PEREMPTORY SALE OF A LARGE STOCK OF SEASONABLE DRY-GOODS, &c. ,TO COVER ADVANCES AND CHARGES On TUESDAY MORNING, January 22, commencing at 10 o'clock, and to be continued daily until the whole stock is disposed of, we will sell, at our Auction Rooms, within the Stores, a large stock of seasonable Dry-Goods, to cover advances, &c., comprising Melton, Beaver, and Broad Cloths. French and American Fancy and other Cassimeres. 100 pieces of best brands of white bleached Cottons 50 do., do., unbleached do. 25 pieces of Waltham's Mills 10 quarter s heeting, 100 pieces of best brands choice prints. 50 pieces of fine French Merinoes, ribbed and plain. 50 pieces of Coburg white and colored Alpacas. Oriental Alpacas and Bombazines. 50 pieces Scotch Plaids, very fine. 25 pieces of Delaines, white, gray, and red. pieces Opera Flannels. 150 pieces fine Dress Goods. 50 pieces Shaker Flannels and Cambrios. 25 pieces of white and colored do. pieces Ticking Scarfs, Hoods, fine Dress Shawls, Cloth and Silk Cloaks and Coats. Lage stock of Stockings and Half-Hose. Undershirts, Drawers, and Wool Jackets. Suspenders and fine Merino Shirts and Draw-ers, with a large stock of desirable and seasonable Dry Goods, all of which will be positively sold without regard to cost. We especially call the attention of the trade to this sale, as it is worthy of their attention. ja20-2t WM. L. WALL & CO., Auct's. DRY GOODS GREAT REDUCTION IN DRY GOODS as M. TAYLOR & CO.'S, who are now selling their entire STOCK OF DRESS GOODS, CLOAKS, SHAWLS, Black and Fancy Cloaking Cloths, Balmoral Skirts, Fancy and Black Silts, &c, &c, at in many cases almost the GOLD COST. ja9-d&S1m CIRCULATING LIBRARY READING FOR EVERYBODY. CIRCULATING LIBRARY. All the standard Novels; every new Book, as soon as published. Terms, 50 cents a month. W. A. TINNEY, Book and Stationary Store, 340 Seventh street. se30-Stf FINANCIAL. JAY COOKE & CO., BANKERS, FIFTEENTH STREET, OPPOSITE TREASURY, Buy and sell at current markey rates, and keep constantly on hand a full supply of GOVERNMENT BONDS,Sunday Chronicle SUNDAY, JANUARY 20, 1867. [For the Sunday Chronicle.] TO ZAYDE BANCROFT-WITH A SHELL. (The following poem is from the pen of Mrs. General Lew Wallace, known to some of your readers as the author of "Patter of Little Feet." Though not intended for publication, I take the liberty of sending it to you, believing many of her friends here will be gratified to it it.—L.) The years have brought you many gifts Since first you heard them tell, How the voice of sea is hid In the windings of a shell. And where'er it may be exiled From its own warm Eastern main, Bend your ear to its crystal cell, And you hear the sea again. I list to the murmurous sound But it never shapes one word; I cannot guess what it would tell- That echo always heard. Does it speak of the strange, rich life, Far down in the surging waves, "Where purple mullet and gold-fish Rove" the depths of coral caves? Where Ocean's throbbing heart is stilled, And wandering Peris rest, 'Mid the pearl and amber jewels He loves to wear in his breast? Perchance the mellow strain was caught From the mermaid fair; Dreamily chanting as she smoothed The rings of her long, wet hair. Or, lingering yet, the echo faint Of a life once held within, Some hidden shape that breathed and died Afar from the breakers' din. Never had sultan roof like this, Never king such castle wall; What was it wrought this wond'rous dome, And filled this palace hall? Deserted now, but whispering low The secret hid in the sea, Ask what the mystic music means, And it answers, ceaselessly, With that weird song, tender and low, As the voice of brooding dove, Who murmurs but a single note, Keynote of life-it is Love. Ah, when you hear that pleading sound, Dream not of siren or sea; Believe it the spirit of Love, Forever singing-of me. WASHINGTON, D.C., October, 1865.Louisville, Jany. 22nd 1866. Hon Jos. Holt: Dear Sir: This will introduce to you James Taylor Jr Esq, of Newport Ky. who has some business connected with your office. I commend him to you as a gentleman of the finest character for integrity and honor. Very truly your friend, Henry Pirtle [*7072*]Private Senate Chamber Jan 22d. 66. Dear Judge I understand a call has been made by the House , for the evidence in possn of the Govt against Davis et al implicating them in the assassination. Pardon me for saying, I think such a communication would be unwise at this time for obvious [reasons] reasons & among them this, that if the evidence implies guilt the publication will enable them to monufocture evidence in reply, a trick they would not hesitate to resort to. Excuse the suggestion, but I really fear the consequence. Truly yours [?] [Howard?] Hon. J. Holt [*7073*] Hamorton Jan 23, 66 Hon Jos Holt Sir Have the speeches delivered by you at "Camp Joe Holt" Charleston &c ever been published in book or pamphlet form; if so can you inform me where I can procure copies of them. Very Resp't Yours Channing Stebbins Hamorton Chester Co Penna. Hon Jos Holt [*7074*]Martinsburg Jany. 23. '66 Hon: Joseph Holt. Sir. A letter recd yesterday by Mrs. Pendleton, from her sister Mrs. Throckmorton, informs me of the interest you have manifested in my behalf in an application now pending for the Collectorship of the revenue in the Alexandrian District in Virginia. This opens a way by which I may enter; and in expressing to you my deep sense of your kindness, I may be considered as only giving utterance to the conventional forms that prevail under like circumstances. Such, I beg to assure you is far from being the case. Before the late wretched war I had learned from a dear Kinsman, the Revd Edward Schon, (and I must say here that it is a pity he did not follow your example) something of the man who when out troubles came and defection in high places [*7075*]was planting consternation in the hearts of all lovers of this Country, stood firm and fast to duty. When all was crmbling under Mr. Buchanans administration I recollect well, sir, that my own clear convictions of duty received additional strength, and I took fresh heart, when it was announced that Joseph Holt was at the head of the War Department. I say this not to flatter for that would be offensive to you, but as only expressing the comfort I received from the fact that you, a border state man of influence had cast in your lot with the Union of the States. And here allow me to say that Northern men however much they may attempt to ignore the fact can not well estimate the value to the final success of the Union Cause, of the efforts of the border states men who remained loyal to the Government. And now, sir, having referred to the occasion furnished me for writing this note, may I not venture to possess you briefly, of the state of the case? Understanding that a change was likely to be made in the collectorship I determined to apply for the position. To this end I wrote to Governor Pierpoint and the Hon J. P. Kennedy from whom I recd. very emphatic letters. These with Mr. Kirby's strong endorsement were placed in the hands of Mr. Rollins about one month since. Mr. Kennedy's letter was one of personal introduction to the Secretary of the Treasury. This I did not deliver because of my unwillingness to seek an interview when I knew that every moment of the Secretary's time was occupied; but preferred rather, and at Mr. Kirbys suggestion, to leave the papers in Mr. Rollins hands. Excuse me for a word more as to my reasons for seeking this appointment. The property upon which we are dependent is entirely in lands. These lands are situated on the road about half-way between Martinsburg and WInchesterchester and during the entire war, from the time of Patterson's Campaign, have been entirely desolated. The fencing burnt to the value of many thousands of dollars. And now all the means I can command are insufficient to put them in a condition for cultivation. In addition, we have lost largely in negroes, but of this I do not complain, tho' immensely inconvenient. It is under these circumstances that I bring myself to ask for place. All I deserve is to be enabled to ease my way over the next few years, satisfied as I am that the country, and my section of it, with wisdom of Washington, will start in a fresh career of prosperity. Permit me, in conclusion, my dear Sir, to assure you that whether successful or not in your endeavours to serve me, your kindness will ever be held in grateful remembrance by Yrs Most Truly E. B. PendletonOffice of Riggs & Co. Washington D.C., 23 Jany 1866 Judge Holt D Sir In addition to the 14 Shares Bk of Commerce stock bought @ 104 our N. Y. friends advise the purchase of the 9 shares @ 104 in [?. ?.] for your a/c Yours &c Riggs [*7076*]267 G St near 14" St Washington D C Jany 24" / 66. Hon J. Holt Judge Advocate General Sir: I am making a collection of autographs for an Album & would feel glad if you would favor me with yours. I have all of the Supreme Court of the U. S. & present members of the Senate & many autographs of other gentlemen of note. If it be your pleasure, I would thank you for two or three so as to change with friends. I am Hon: Sir Very Respectfully F. M. Marshall P. S. i enclose slips like those I have already received, If you send any be pleased to date them F. M. M. [*7077*]F. M. MarshalLa Cres Cent Minn 25th Jany 1866 Hon J. Holt Washington D C Please call on Hon D Norton one of our U.S. Senators who will explain to you how the Southern Minnesota Railroad Company is endeavouring to evade the provisions of the land grant act & give La Cres Cent the go by "or out in the cold" by taking the Miss River 3 or 3 1/2 Miles below us. have just learned the Company are arranging to get the lands for 1st 10 or 20 Miles no difficulty in proving that the Land Grant Act is not being Complied with Mr Norton will explain fully to you Think you Should See the Secretary of the Interior forthwith & have him to withold the lands until we can furnish the proper proof. What is the proper Course to pursue You as well as myself are interested in having the road built from La Cres Cent as for Act granting The lands. I will attend to this end of the line. So Soon as I know what proof the Secretary of the Interior will require Advise me Your friend Thos. M Roberts [*7078*]Head Quarters Depo of Ky Louisville Jan 26 1866 Hon Joseph Holt Judge Advocate Genl Sir I presume every man of military experience feels interested in the proper administration of Military law and in the organization of the Judge Advocates Department Thus interested I desire to express my opinion in favor of organizng and connecting with the permanent Army [Cor—] Such an arrangement of Military Courts as will secure conformity and certainly of Judicial action At first glance it is apparent that the bill lately reported for the organization of the Army almost entirely disregards this front The force it proposes is too small All of us know the irregularities and mischiefs which have in practice resulted from thories of expereinces Judge Advocate's and this plan does not abriate this difficulties in the future, Tho administrator of Justice no one upon mass centers regonise the services of several comes [*7679*]with a large number of officers and lawyers who devote themselves exclusively to the administration of Justice and over these courts there are tribunals for the correction of errors. The courts of the Army are improvised of inexperienced Officers aided by inexperienced Judge Advocates and their proceedings [???sing] by Commanding Generals often not lawyers and if lawyers they are generals pressed by other engagements The case for this is to organize the Judge Advocate department in such manner as to furnish each Department Commander with an educated experienced staff Judge Advocate and at the same time allow for the organization of one or more Military Courts as knew with enlarged powers so that new trials might be ordered and [p???pers] carefully settled I have not time to discuss this matter at length but briefly submit these views for consideration I am very respectfully John M Palmer Maj GenlHead-Quarters Department of Kentucky, JUDGE ADVOCATE'S OFFICE, Louisville, Ky. Jan 27th 1866. Hon J. Holt Judge Advocate Gen'l Washington D. C. General Enclosed please find a letter from Gen'l Palmer in reference to the judge Advocate Dept. I asked him to write it, because I thought that his opinion might have some weight in determining whether the Permanent Army was in need of such a [corps] class of officers. I am interested in this matter because I desire to remain in the army in my present position, and would like to devote my life to the study of the criminal and military law, instructionals, and the law of nations. I know very well that nothing will be done for the Judge Advocate Dept except they do something for themselves, and I am ready to do my part. Before going further however I would like to have your views [*7080*]and should of course be governed by them. If the corps is to be mustered out I should like to know it, in time to make some business arrangements in regard to a law partnership Col. Plask of Gen'l Grants staff was here inspecting a few days ago, and at my request he wrote to Gen'l Ralings on the same subject. If you will be kind enough to give me your views and your wishes [in the] in reference to this matter. You will greatly oblige, Your Obedient Servent William H. CoytTHE AMERICAN TELEGRAPH CO. CONNECTING ALL THE PRINCIPAL CITIES AND TOWNS OF THE UNITED STATES. Terms and Conditions on which this and all Messages are received by this Company. In order to guard against and correct as much as possible some of the errors arising from atmospheric and other causes appertaining to telegraphy, every important message should be REPEATED, by being sent back from the station at which it is to be received to the station from which it is originally sent. Half the usual price will be charged for repeating the message, and while this Company in good faith will endeavor to send messages correctly and promptly, it will not be responsible for errors or delays in the transmission nor delivery, nor for the non-delivery of REPEATED MESSAGES beyond TWO HUNDRED times the sum paid for sending the message, unless a special agreement for insurance be made in writing, and the amount of risk specified on this agreement, and paid for at the time of sending the message. Nor will the Company be responsible for any error or delay in the transmission or delivery, or for the non-delivery, of ANY UNREPEATED MESSAGE, beyond the amount paid for sending the same, unless in like manner specially insured, and amount of risk stated hereon, and paid for at the time. No liability is assumed for errors in cipher or obscurely written messages ; nor is any liability assumed by this Company for any error or neglect by any other Company over whose lines this message may be sent to reach its destination, and this Company is hereby made the agent of the sender of this message to forward it over the lines extending beyond those of this Company. No agent or employee is allowed to very these terms, or make any other or verbal agreement, nor any promise as to the time of performance, and no one but a superintendent is authorized to make a special agreement for insurance. These terms apply through the whole course of this message on all lines by which it may be transmitted. CAMBRIDGE LIVINGSTON, Sec'y. MARSHALL LEFFERTS, Eng. E. S. SANFORD, Pres'T. Dated New York Jan 27 1866. Received at Washington, Jan 27 To Judge Holt Warden Bldg We take this morning through train H Bancroft DHop [*7081-2*] New Orleans Jany 29, 1866 Hon. J. Holt City of Washington My dear Sir I have understood that James Taylor jr son of my old school mate James Taylor Esq of New Port Ky & grand-son of your friend & my friend Majr Wm T. Barry decd is about to bring to your attention some matter of business of much importance to himself & being unknown to you desires a letter of introduction to you. — I give it with the utmost pleasure. — Indeed I am glad to have it in my power to make you acquainted with a descendant of one of the noblest men I ever knew — I remember with pride, the fact that his Grand-father was my friend in early life & I wish his descendants to know [that] not only that I have a most grateful recollection of his kindness to me, but that I hold in the highest honour, his virtues, his [*7083*]genius & his services to his country I am glad to know that you appreciate the memory of Mr Barry as highly as I do, for in a late conversation between us at Washington you, much to my gratification, expressed the highest admiration of his eloquence & genius — Bearing all this in mind I take pleasure in introducing his grand-son to you & will not indicate a doubt of your disposition to serve him even by the expression of a wish that you should do so. — I am sure that you will give him a full, fair & liberal hearing Very respectfully yours truly J O. HarrisonHarrodsburgh, Jan 30th 66. My very dear friend Mr Holt, I returned home last evening from the South after an absence of more than four months, I found quite a number of letters awaiting my arrival. I glanced over the superscriptions & recognized your handwriting immediately, & read your letter first, at once evincing that you were actually the very first. You do now know how much your long silence & indifference had pained me, & I often wondered how you could be so "regardless of wringing and breaking a heart, already to sorrow resigned" I had thought when I saw & knew you at the "Louisville Hotel", that I had found one that could be relied on, sure & true. One, whose sentiments echoed to my own. whose softness & gentleness of manner wooed & won the heart, whilst his talents & acquirements suprised & controlled the mind by their I have so many things to tell you if I could only see you. When will you be in Louisville again? My health is very good now. My sister - Mrs Cross & family all live here now with Pa, also my brother & son - again, good bye. [wellness?] & extent. Now you perhaps will think when you read these lines that there is not a spark of sincerity in them - but I wish you knew me perfectly well, then you would appreciate better what I say - I have thought with bitter mortification of the opinion you must entertain of me when supposing I would have evinced the preference I did for you at Louisville, & permitting the kind of attention I received from you there without feeling it all in the depths of my heart, & when I wrote to you afterwards that I was engaged to be married to a young man in this state it was through a kind of little pique I had with you about something, & not because it was literally so. The gentleman of whom I spoke was ten years younger than myself, & had been annoying me with his protestations & supplications both before, at the time & after you were in Louisville. After I came home he visited me, & just vowed he would not leave until I promised to marry him. At last I told him "probably I might" but permitted him to write me exactly six letters afterwards before I replied to any of them, at last I wrote & told him I could not think of compromising my dignity by marrying any gentleman my junior & that I, indeed, preferred another man to himself under all circumstances, & there the matter has rested. In the meanwhile from the time I had the visit from him, until I wrote this letter, I had written to you saying I was "engaged" - & this truthfully & religiously was the amount of it all. Believest thou me? I know that thou doest. And now won't you like me just as well as you did - and then I never will like anyone else as well as I do you - And I don't intend ever showing any of your letters to Dr. Palmer or anyone else again, & I wish you to have perfect confidence & believe me just as childlike & artless as I seem to be, for I can assure it is no affectation. I often lament & try to correct it & be otherwise.I remained at Cleveland until the first of September, but did not receive a single line from you, & had not heard from you until I received this note of the 25th of Sept, last night On that very day I left for the South with an uncle of mine where I have remained ever since until now visiting New Orleans, where I came near dying with Typhoid fever from thence to Vicksburg, & then to Columbia, Arkansas, where I had an interview with Mr Elisha Worthington, who is not dead but liveth, to see if I could effect a compromise with regard to my claim upon his estate - he was not willing to allow me anything whatever, & said I was not able to prosecute the suit & could get nothing by law. I thereupon left him went immediately up to Memphis employed Gen'l Albert Pike, who says he can get $50,000 for me, and that I am certainly entitled to it by law. So do all the lawyers I consulted in Arkansas say that I am entitled to alimony, from three to five thousand dollars a year. Gen'l Pike said, however, that if Mr Worthington saw that I was determined to prosecute him, & was willing to compromise he would do so at 40,000 - which I would prefer rather than have a suit. I have written you the first letter and have quite a number of others to answer. Hoping to have an immediate reply, I am as ever, Yours Truly & Sincerely Mary H. BowmanCount Gurowski accepts with pleasure the honor to dine in Mr Holt's company on Tuesday 6= of Feby at six &½ O'clock January 30th 1866— [*7085*]Bat. Major Genl. Gillmore has the honor to accept Judge Holt's invitation to dinner on Tuesday February 6th, as half past six o'clock. Washington January 31st 1866. — [*7086*]Washington Wednesday 31st Mrs and Miss Peay accept with pleasure, Mr Holt's invitation for Tuesday 6th of Feb. [*7084*][*B*] Mr & Mrs Bridge accept with pleasure Gen. Holts invitation to dinner for February 6th. Rugby House Jan. 31st. [*7088*]Mr & Mrs Lane accept with pleasure Judge Holt's invitation to dinner, on Tuesday the 6th of February. Wednesday 31st of Jan: [*7089*]Dr & Mrs Parker accept, with much pleasure, Mr Holt's invitation to dinner on Tuesday 6th February at six & half o'clock Wednesday 31st January [*7090*]My dear Judge Holt I acknowledge with pleasure the receipt of your obliging note of yesterday. The Ge'l & myself will do ourselves the honor to call at your house this afternoon at seven o'clock to pay our respects to your guests Very truly yours Mary L Russell Tuesday [*7091*]408 (E) Street 1st Feby 1866 Hon J. Holt My Dear Sir Mrs Russell, and myself accept with sincere pleasure your kind invitation to dine with you on Tuesday the 6th Inst I am with very high respect Your Obt Servt Wm. H. Russell [*7092*][*H*] Friday Feby 1st Dear Cousin I will avail myself of your kind offer of the Carriage tomorrow at 1 ock if you have not other use for it. I have been quite sick since I saw you - How is the Head! In haste very truly yours A.S.Holt [*7093*]Mr & Mrs Speed accept with pleasure, Brig. Genl Holt's invitation to dine with him. Wash. Feby 1st 66 [*7094*][*Feb. 2. 1866*] Dear Judge. I have been trying to see you since Monday, to inform you of a very pleasant invitation for you from my friend, Mrs Rogers for this eve.g, but adverse purposes seem to have guided you away from my path - This call then, is to invite and urge you to go - Your own friends will be there, and many whom you like - I hope it is not too late for your acceptance of the proposition, as both of us will be so disappointed if you signify a negative Dont say nay to it. It will be delightful - the party I mean - I will send your card [*7095*]to you on my return. and hope confidently you will go. I hear of you of attending so many entertainments, that I think you cant refuse on the score of not going out. In mush haste. H. D. G - Feb 2d 1866. Judge Holt -New York February 3d Hon. J. Jolt Judge Advocate Sir I take the liberty of addressing you for the purpose of requesting of you the favor of giving me one of your valued Photographs which I wish to use i my Picture of the Assasination Trial By granting my request you will confer very great favour Your Obt Servant F. Seeger [*7096*]Washington February 3rd Hon Mr Holt Sir Allow me to indulge in the earnest desire I feel, to express my gratitude for the favorable opinion and the substantial expression of it, towards my beloved husband Mr Schoepf whom I naturally look upon with all the enthusiam, and partiallity of a young wife. But, I feel on this occasion that there is also one other individual, at least, who with the appreciative eye of experience places talent and education where it may unfold its resources to its own honour [*7097*]as well as that of its benefactor. Setting aside the pecuniary advantages I can not find words to make know the deep gratitude I feel that my husband is placed in a position, better suited to his abilities and tastes. With the hope that you may find under all circumstances the blessings which your condition calls for I remain with high esteem Yours respectifully Julie B Schoepf THE NEW YORK ERA. H. C. PAGE, Editor and Publisher The Era is published at 9 Spruce Street near the City Hall. Advertisements inserted at fair rates, and Job Printing executed with neatness and despatch. Office of "The Era," New-York, Feb. 3 1866 Dear Sir, The Era has ever been a devoted advocate of Union principles, and is the only journal in our city and state representing that class of men known as war democrats, who, in the recent sanguinary contest, stood manfully by their country in the face of obstacles of all kinds. The editor of the Era, in his firm advocacy of right principles, has made great sacrifice of health and business, and yet he has never asked for any thing more than justice from those he was supporting, and so far he has failed to obtain even that. Very many of the eminent Union men and war democrats of the country have united in pressing upon the attention of the General Government the claims of the Era, but so far without practical success, and now we are determined to make another appeal [*7098*]to the President. I will thank you if you will immediately write a letter direct to the President in our behalf, urging the claims of the Era are the only organ of the war democrats, and forward to me a copy of your letter. We are warmly supporting the administration of Andrew Johnson, and if we can only receive the consideration due us, we shall enlarge and much improve the Era. Please let me hear from you by return mail. And oblige, H. C. Page, Ed. Era.Henderson Kentucky Feb — 3rd 1866 Hon Joseph Holt Washington D. C. My Dear sir This will introduce my young friend James Taylor Jr. Esq of Newport Kentucky - Mr. Taylor is the son of Maj Jos. Taylor of Newport Ky — & grand son of the late Maj Wm. T. Barry — Mr. Taylor visits Washington on business. He desires an interview with the President — Mr. Taylor will make known to you the character of his business Mr. — Taylor is a young gentleman of the strictest integrity — & you can place the utmost retions upon all & every statement he makes to you, on the subject — Allow me to ask you, to give Mr — Taylor all the assistance in your power, to — enable him to accomplish his business — I commend him to your kindest consideration as a gentleman every way worthy your confidence, considerations, & regard very truly your friend L W Powell [*7099*]St. Louis Febraury 6th 66. My dear Sir Can you with propriety inform me what is tobe the organization of the "Bureau of Military justice" under the expected regulations this session? - I ask because the present Judge Advocate of this Dept a personal friend of my own of many years standing, a lawyer by profession & practice and a gentleman of high character & very extensive literary acquirements, desires to remain in service provided he can be connected with the Bureau with the duties of which he is familiar & which are eminently to his tastes. I prefer to Major & Brvt. Col. J. F Meline Additional Aid de Camp - with whom you are I think acquainted at least in the way of professional business & correspondence - Col Meline is anxious to know whether [*7100*] On the reorganization of the Bureau there will be a chance for him to be appointed in it, as otherwise he wishes to make immediate arrangements to resume the practice of his profession in view of his expected muster out of service. I am deeply interested in his remaining in service in the portion referred to.- He is eminently qualified by education & profession for such a position. & would be an invaluable officer. He is a man of forty six or forty seven years of age, of mature judgement & marked discretion - Will you please let me know about the matter of the back street with [picquet?] — very respectfully & truly yours Jno Pope Maj Genl Bvt Maj Genl J. Holt Judge Advocate General USAWashington February 7th Dear Judge You made us little ones very happy yesterday It made us wonder if the Judge was not a little fellow once just like us and like us capered and jumped at the arrival of cakes and candies We all mean when we grow up to be men to do like you make the little ones happy and jump for joy - Don't you think that our Holt thinks that he is a Judge now and says when he is a man he is going to be a Gentleman He says tell the Judge I love him but Judge we all love you even if our names are not Joe Holt - Your affectionate little friend Frank Schoepf Holt Schoepf Will Schoepf [*7101*]306 2nd Avenue N.Y. Feb. 8 / 66. My dear friend Do you know what position the late Dr Solger occupied in Washington? I think he had an office under govt. where a man of learning was required. I ask because Prof. Fischer, a man of learning & remarkable industry, with whom I have been for many years acquainted, is desirous of succeeding Dr Solger & I am very desirous of furthering [*7102*]his wish. I dislike to trouble so busy a man as you are, & yet my regard for Fischer leads me to ask if you could en passant ascertain Solger's office & tell me how I must make application for Prof Fischer. If you disturb yourself at all for this I shall be sorry that I've written. I have become a great admirer of President Johnson & heartily endorse his views of reconstruction. I feel very hopeful of our future & look at the frightful past as a necessary link in the chain, & can praise God both for retrospect & prospect. - My own time is passed in much occupation & much peace. I am too busy to bewearied of time and too much interested to be weary of work, and so I have a constant practical study of the philosophy of happiness. Mrs Crosby joins me in hearty regards to you. I am yours very truly Howard Crosby Hon. Joseph Holt Washington D.C.Hardinsburg Feby 8th 1866 D Sir - I enlose you $3 my subscription to Chronicle, and am much obliged to you. I have had a secret fear that I.G, S. or others might be inclined to contest the will - hence, I listened to & forwarded his propositions for purchase. I have heard nothing to indicate such a purpose & my fear has originated, from the predominance here of an intense hatred to every man, who has stood squarely by his country, and the possibility that counting upon that - they might risk the effort. I have made the following sales viz Jo Stinnet 1/2 of a 386 acre tract for $1,000 - Cash $300- 3 notes for $233.33 1/3 each bearing int. from date due 1st Mar 1867, 1868 & 1869 To R. Reynolds 57 1/2 acres, individed, a $13.50 - $776.25 Cash $113. [from a/com?] Mary Ann Stephens $87 - notes bearing interest for $288.12 1/2 each - payable 18th Jany '67 & '68 To E. B. Miller 300 acre tract in Hardin $3 - $900 three notes each for $300 - payable 15. April 1866 - 67 & 68 Mr. C Taben 98 acres, said, to be 90 only, Hardin, cash $200 - To Ed. Bennett 300 acres, Bricke, a $3 1/3 pr acre $1,000 Cash $333.33 1/3 - two notes for same amt bearing interest due 29th Jany '67 & '68 To H. G. Johnson 250 acres, [Genking?] Brick, for $500 Cash $100 - 4 notes for 100 each due 29th Jany 67. 68. 69 & 70 To W Lockard etc 341 acres Brick a $4 pr acre - $1364Three notes, bearing interest, for $454.66 2/3 each, due 1st March 1867, '68 & '69 To Ben Hardin 276 acres in eirking a $3. $828 Two notes for $414 each payable Feby 7th 1867 & Feby 7th 1868 bearing interest - Making in all, according to a hasty estimate 1765 1/2 acres sold in all for $6568.25 - averaging about $3.70/acre of which $1046.33 has been paid in cash - I had hoped to get better prices - but persons acquainted with the land say I have made good sales - The partnership land are I presume somewhat better than the other - and I shall try to get a division as soon as practicable - and I am giving general warrantee deeds revering being - generally agreeing to refund the purchase money without interest in case of loss - But buyers object to this covenant - and seem from it - to suspect some flaw in the title - shall I give this, or an absolute warranty - You did not say in yr letter, whether you would give in the land divind to you, to the U.S. Assessor - or whether I shall do so - First opportunity I shall deposit a portion of the money, I have collected in Bank Ky, subject to yr order - retaining amt to pay - S. note on yr amt & a medical bill & taxes, &c. The Lockards to whom I sold are occupants of the tract they purchased, under a lease from Jr. [to] expiring the 1st March next - Hence no cash payment Johnson is also a tenant - with 3 years to turn, hence the term to him - I have found it necessary to vary the terms of payments & to suit the views of purcharers - I believe the sales are to men, who will pay - In the Lockard sale - I have taken notes of him & his son and son in law - and the deed is made to them jointly - in all cases reserving a lein - I shall be from hence after this week for 2 or 3 weeks - in attendance upon Court - Yrs & Jipr, W. KinchelarAustin, Texas. Feb'y 12th 1866. Hon: Jos. Holt, I fear my frequent letters will annoy you. They are not written because I suppose they will have any particular interest for you, but because I think you would like to be kept advised of the state of public sentiment here, and of the progress made towards reconstruction. Your devotion to the Union is well known every where. This, together with your kindness to, and appreciation of, Union men in Texas, as evinced towards myself, Gov. Hamilton & many others, has endeared you to the loyal men of this State, to an extent much greater than [*7104*]you imagine. In this class of men, and their political welfare, I am sure you feel a deep interest, and it is for this reason I now write again. Our reconstruction Convention has been in session since the 7th inst. it has only been fully organized, and nothing has yet come up to elicit discussion and show its true spirit, except one matter. A union man offered a resolution, providing that such members should take an oath to support the Constitution of the U. States. To the astonishment of every one this was strongly opposed and finally voted down. The objections expressed were mostly technical and frivolous. Some said it was unnecessary, as they had all taken the amnesty oath — others that they had nothing to do with the Constitution of the U States, until Texas was recognized as a State by the President & Congress, &c &c. The next day, however, a member who had been most active & influential in opposition, moved a reconsideration, and the resolution was adopted. They all accordingly took the oath, but it was like taking a dose of Castor oil to most of them. This may be considered a small matter, but it shows the animus of many of them. I think there are about 24 men in the body, who may be regarded as out and out, unconstitutional Union men. There are more than that who call themselves Union men, and who I consideredsuch until the freedom of their slaves here became an actual fact, and they could no longer command their services for nothing. Then they became soreheaded and dissatisfied. There are some prominent men too, of this class, who from ambitious motives, are courting the Secesh element. They want positions, either under the Federal or State Government, & who, if they do not feel a real sympathy with the late Secessionists, are intending to do so. Gov Hamilton has sent in a message to them, which I am sure you will be much pleased with. It is good taste — pointed and firm, yet dignified & courteous He tells them plainly and frankly what his own sentimentsand what he thinks is their duty. It will be printed in a day or two, and I will send you a copy. I think a majority of the people of Texas are really anxious that there should be a restoration of their relations to the Government. They want peace and security, and the return of law and order. It is the ambitious demagogues and politicians who keep the public mind excited, and by false representations, appeals to passion &c are constantly working mischief. This is the class of men (and they are numerous & influential) who mislead the people from the path of duty and loyalty. The men who succeeded in getting out of the State, during the war, and went over to the Federals — "Renegades," as they call us, are particularly adverse [*7104-a*]to Secesh. Enclosed I send for your amusement an article which seems to be written by one of these "renegades", in defence of that much abused class. You will see that he does me the honor to couple my name with that of the Att'y Genl. Mr Speed. I also enclose some remarks of the Editor of the San Antonio Express, which will give you some idea of the disloyal tone pervading many of the Texas presses. Our political and social future here is certainly a very gloomy one, and at times it makes me very low spirited. While I would deprecate universal & immediate negro suffrage, I would accept it rather than have the political power of this State in the hands of Secessionists. I think if the Constitutional amendment, making representation depend upon the number of voters, is passed, the Southern States will themselves be forced, in a short time, to extend the right of suffrage to most of their freedmen — This will be better than for Congress to do so. All the volunteer troops at this point are about being mustered out. Only one regiment of regulars will be left here, and one at San Antonio. I fear this is not a wise step. The force left in the State will not be sufficient to overcome and keep disloyal sentiment in subjection, as ought to be done. I understand Congress will perhaps make radical and important changes in the Judiciary. How they may affect me, I don't know. If the Supreme Court makes no decision in regard to the test oath of 1862, which would render it improper for me to do so, I would like to remain in office a while longer. I am very poor, and considerablyin debt. To have to return to my profession, and rely upon it alone, under present circumstances, would be most unfortunate for my family. I rely upon you and Mr. Seward to do what you can for me in this matter. I see from the papers that the latter has returned from the West Indies in renewed health, for which I am very glad. Please give him my kindest regards. Aunt Polly and my wife both send their respects to you. Yours Most truly T H. Duval 1866 Shelbyville Feb. 12. Hon. Jos. Holt, Dr Sir, I do not believe that you have ever "grown weary in well doing" and therefore I take the liberty of giving you an opportunity of conferring a favor on as worthy and as patriotic a man as to be found in these U.S. — If I am troublesome or taking too great a liberty you will pardon it, in an old friend. Besides, I firmly believe, the Lord permits you to live, and gives you health and strength to enable you stand on the watch tower for your country's good —May you [*7105*]long live to be one of he supporters, of one of the best earthly governments — the world has ever known! — Mr. H. H. Martin, my brother-in-law, is an applicant for the Collectorship, of this District - A better patriot is not to be found, Mr Martin is a Lawyer by profession - well -educated, and a remarkable mathematician - He is a union man of the purest, stamp - tried and never wavering supporter of the Administration - Voted for Mr. Lincoln at his last election at the risk of his life — Will you, if consistent with your own views, allow yourself to be referred to upon the occasion of the presentation of his application, which will probably be sent on immediately? Belle and my sons wish to be respectfully remembered to you Respectfully and with much esteem- Julia A. TevisTrenton N J Feb 12th / 66 Will Mr Holt look with forbarance on a stranger's addressing a letter to him: To claim his aid to procure a pention for her old age. I have [been] for many years past been a labourer in the cause of Education: I thought I had also secured a competence for my old age: but the change of ownership deprived me at once of employment home and burial place. With the savings of twenty eight years I returned to my native State. I found every thing changed. My only own brother dead and his grand sons in the army and navy. I have found a present home in the house of my half sisters orphan girls who are also strugling to make a (living by their own Industry) and [*7106*]who took my place in Trenton when I went out west in thirty seven. I am at present comfortably fixed but my interest will not meet my expenses and I have been already obliged to use my principal until I have but one Government Bond remaining. it is a dark view to a person of 75 which I shall be the 9th of March. If you think it right that I should have aid I feel that I can have it entirely to your Judgment As to amount and all details. I have labored faithfully many years for the good of my Country and I cannot see why a woman should not be as much aided as a man. Please to do what you think right for me, write to me at Perry St 34 Trenton N J. Elizabeth R. Atkinson357 = F. Street 18th Feby 186 Hon Joseph Holt My Dear Sir I am sick, tired, and disgusted with the treatment I have received from the White House &c & in reference to a promised & - - appointment I am still in a worse condition, by being out of money to enable me to start for home ! Can you loan me fifty dollars, which I pledge myself to return, or to place to your credit in Louisville, within ten days after my arrival in Ky I do not think of work [*7107*]my [intendents?], that you can doubt me I am most truly with considerations of the highest regard Very truly yours Wm. H RapierHon Joseph Holt Judge Avocate Gen U.S. ArmyFeb 13th 1866 My dear Friend, Can you tell me what has become of the Captain? I have written to him twice since my return to this place. From his long silence I fear my letters have not reached him. I directed as usual. — I have not heard one sound from him since Thursday 4th of January. His silence makes me very unhappy or unfits me for my home duties. — — Won't you be kind enough to write, if only a few lines, to let me know if he is sick, or if my letters have been received. By gratifying this desire you will relieve the anxious mind of your very sad friend. L. J. G. — [*7108*]Excuse the blot, my pen dropped out of my handFort Delaware February 14th Hon J Holt Dear Sir I am perhaps exceeding my limits, when I look to you, to enlighten me in regard to some matters which I can not comprehend, and which, under other circumstances, would perhaps give me less concern than I feel at present. I saw in the Congressional Report, that all Generals not in active service should be dismissed - I would like to know if you suppose, that clause to have references to those who [*7109*]occupy responsible Posts such as this — If the General is to make a change this Spring, it would be a favor to me to anticipate the future, not from womanly curiosity, but from causes which I can not explain at present, You know there are times in ones history, when certainty in regard to locality, is imperative this being my case, I naturally look to our best friend for such information as he can afford — I remain With great Esteem Julie SchoepfNew York Jan 14th 1866 To Hon J Holt Sir; At Cincinnati my mother at length gave way to my entreaties and consented to send me to Europe to finish my education, starting from a city where I was entire stranger I am without letters to any parties in Europe, therefore I will be infinitely obliged to you if you will send me a letter of introduction, simply, to the American Minister of Paris. I will not leave until the 20th so your letter will have ample time to reach me. With many thanks for your kindness to my mother while in Washington, and apologies for the trouble this will cause you, I remain with respect. Your obdt humble servant T. M. Miller Stephens House N. Y. [*7109-a*]Winslow, Lanier & Co. Bankers, New York, Feb. 16. 1866. General I arrived here this morning and expect to remain in this city until Wednesday morning. I saw Genl. Winston of the H. Com. in Mil. Aff. yesterday. He expressed himself very decidedly favorable to the continuance of the Bureau of Mil. Justice. I also saw Genl. Thos. Ewing and he said he would make it his business to see his friend Mr. Blaine of the Com. [*7110*]and felt satisfied that he could secure mr. B's support. I see by the papers, this morning, that Mr. Wilson is urging his bill upon the consideration of the senate, and I respectfully suggest that you take an early opportunity of posting Mr. Howard and some other senators as to the past services and present necessity of the Bureau. Your motives can not be misunderstood because you have passed the point where you are liable to the suspicion of seeking a place for yourself. My experience in congress has shown me how much can properly be accomplished by personal interviews with the members. If you have occasion to reply you can address me to the care of the house at the head of this letter. Yours truly W.M.Dunn Genl J. Holt Washington CityLebanon Ky Feb. 16th 1886 Dear Sir:- For about ten days Aunt Lizzie Hynes has been threatened with an abscess in the right iliac region of Abdomen, Caused by inflammation of the Caecum extending to the connective-tissue which attaches the ascending colon to the iliac fascia. She has suffered considerable pain in the thigh, caused by pressure of the swelling on nerve. I had thought to call Dr [Octerbury?] of Louisville to see her; but this morning I find her symptoms generaly better. The swelling & inflammation has reduced, she is not suffering so much pain and I still have hope that an abscess will not form. I will however see her again at noon & if her symptoms are not favorable, will have Dr [Octerbury?] to come out to night to see her. I will write you every day & keep you informed as to her condition. With much esteem & respect, I am Yours very truly R. C .[McCherd?] To Hon. Joseph Holt Washington D.C.Newport, Campbell Co. Feb. 16th 1866. Hon. Joseph Holt, Judge Advocate Washington, D. C. Sir:— About three months ago certain letters in which the writer and his family are interested, were referred to the Commanding Gen. of this Department for investigation, by the President of the United States. Capt. Plummer was detailed to make said investigation, the report of which has been forwarded and is now in possession of the War Department. As this matter relates merely to a private and obscure individual like myself, & of course do not expect that consideration and attention which is given to matters of Public interest. But [*7112*]as that subject has thus been introduced to the Government, I feel anxious, for at least an expression of approval. My wife and I have done all in our power, and to the best of our ability for the Government. And did it too with the most positive threats of personal violence. Our lives have been endangered and bread has been taken from my family; I being deprived of a situation. But above all, I have been injured in reputation by the falsehoods circulated by then rebel spies, and their Agent here and in Cincinnati: It is my hope that the Government will at least award me the credit of doing some good, and of doing honestly to the best of my ability. When Capt. Plummer was making his investigation, I gave him the names of several parties to whom I had named some of the facts contained in those letters; but then Gentlemen he did not see. Hon Green Clay Smith, Wm. H. Lafre, E. W. Hawkins, and some others in Cincinnati, The letters which was written from time to time, were not signed, for fear that the same might be captured while on the way, and thus subject me and my family to additional damages. It is even painful for me to refer to what I have gone through, even at this day — the facts are fairly stated in the papers above referred to. For near a year I was constantly followed by MayorHatch of CIncinnati, and his horde — then were all in they pay of the Richmond Authorities, And as he knew that I was acquainted with some of the facts, he was anxious to get me out of the way. From this somer I have suffered in reputation, without having the means or evidence to refute it: also, I have suffered pecuniary loss, and the health of my wife has been permanently impaired. As these papers may possibly come before you, I have taken the liberty to address you — knowing that you will do in the premises all that you can, and what you deem just and right — and I ask nothing more. Very respectfully, Your obedient Servant, S. L. Massey.New York. Feby 20. 1866 No. 7 Clinton Place Hon. Joseph Holt. Washington. Will Judge Holt permit me to remind him of my desire to procure a copy of a portion of Col. Chipman's arguments in the Wirz trial? I left a minute with his chief clerk, of the parts that I wished and if the Secretary of War has no objections, I would feel under great obligation if he will permit it to be copied and sent to me here. As Judge Holt will remember, I told him that I have the whole argument, but by misdirection it is in Georgian and will cause me some delay to be compelled to wait for it. I hope that my renewed application will not be considered intrusive, while I beg to be allowed to Subscribe myself Very Respectfully, Your Obt. Servt. Ambrose Spencer [*7113*]Americus. Geo. Jany. 30. 1866. Hon. J. Holt. Judge Advocate General, Washington , D.C. Sir. I am in receipt of your letter of January 18, and will do myself the honor of laying before you, personally, such evidence as I have and may obtain, touching the offences of Richard B. Winder against humanity, as exhibited in his treatment of Federal prisoners of War at Andersonville, in 1864. Private business will compel me to start for Washington in a very few days, when I will take pleasure in waiting upon you and placing in your hands such evidence as I have. I will only add, that if there is anything which I can do in aid of the Government or to Subserve the ends of public Justice, in this nefarious outrage, you have only to command my Services. My near residence to the prison , has given me peculiar advantages for information. I have the honor to be, Very Respectfully, Your Obt. Servt. Ambrose Spencer. [*7113-1*] 531. I. street cor of 6th Washington D.C. Feb. 20th 1866. Maj: Gen. Holt. Sir I am very sorry to trouble you again after the kindness you have already shown me, but I am extremely anxious to learn if there is any possibility of my obtaining the writing from your office, for which I applied, and for which Gen. Grant recommended me. My necessities are very great or I should not trouble you. Yours Respectfully, Mrs. I. B. Richardson. [*7114*]The Attorney General requests the honor of Judge Holt's company to Dinner on Thursday the 22nd Feb at 6 1/2 o'clock An answer requested [*7115*]The Military Order of the Loyal Legion OF THE UNITED STATES. The honor of Maj. Genl. Joseph Holt's company is requested at a celebration to be given at the American Academy of Music for the benefit of "The Soldiers and Sailor's Home." on Thursday at 12 o'clock, M. February 22nd 1866. On behalf of Committee Sam. B. Wylie. Mitchell, Chairman N. W. Cor. 10th & Chestnut Sts. Philadelphia. The favor on an early answer is requested. [*7116*]Friday February 23rd/66 Dear Judge, Your kind invitations to meet Mr. and Mrs. Diehl at dinner tomorrow has just been handed to me, and you may be assured that it will afford both Mrs. Michler and myself great pleasure to accept. Mrs. Mr. drove up to your house a day or two ago to inquire if Mrs. Diehl had arrived; She is anxiously looking for her, and indicated a great deal of pleasure in seeing you both very often. I know Mrs. Mr. will only be to happy to meet you all tomorrow. Yours, very respectfully, Mr. Michler Judge J. Holt Washington City D.C. [*7117*]Newport Ky Feb. 25th / 66 Hon. Joseph Holt Dear Sir Presuming on an accquaintance made many years ago with you, I take the liberty of introducing my son James Taylor Jr to you — My son visits Washington to lay before you some important papers, and letters, in reference to his father in Law Mr John Porterfield formerly of Nashville Tennessee — Any statements that may be made by my son in regard to the subject to be presented to you, will be strictly true on every Particular — I am with very great Respect Your obt Sevt James Taylor [*7118*]Mr. J. W. Forney, 553. New. Jersey. Avenue. Capitol. Hill. Presents his compliments and requests the pleasure of your company at 9 o'clock , on. Monday evening, February 26th. Brig Gen Joseph B Holt [*7119*]Wash. March 1st 1866, Sir, This will introduce to you Capt Elisha W Tareton of the 3rd U.S. Cavalry - Capt T. Is the son of an old & much esteemed friend of mine. Capt T went into the army promptly at the breaking out of the rebellion & served with great credit. He desires a copy of the proceedings in his case. I trust that it may be consistent with the rules of your [*7120*]that he may have a copy — I am Sir, most respectfully James Speed Brig Genl Joe Holt WashNear Centreville St Mary, La March 2nd 1866 - Hon Joseph Holt Washington City - Pardon Kind Sir the liberty I take with your good nature - In the ruin which has come upon me necessity bid me seek the most certain mode of releif - Your great influences personal & political added to your enlarged views upon all matters induces me to seek your advise & counsel in obtaining from Govt, damages for the destruction complete & entire - of my plantation & improvements on Berwick Bay - I had hoped to obtain your influence thru our mutual friend & Kinsman [*7121*]Gov Robt Wickliffe, but am not advised of his whereabouts May I ask you to point out some one in whose hands I can place my claims, the fee will be a contingent one but must be large, for if the claim is admitted at all the damages must be heavy - It is conceed by every one, even the Federal officers themselves, that I should be indemnified before all others in this country - The widows & fatherless have in all times had the promise of His mercy, apart from this the destruction has been more complete - & without an object I am preparing my papers & will soon have them in proper form - Should my appeal meet with your sympathy I will lay before you a plain unvarnished statement of my grievances which could not fail to touch the heart of any one with natural sensibilities - I must get this claim thro; else am I beggared, my child thrown upon the world without education, that which no greater misfortune could befall him - I must beg your good wife my Cousin to plead for my boy - Tell her I have only recently heard of the death of her Mother, she was the favorite relation of my father & husband - & I knew how she was idolized by her children - Hoping for a favorable interpretation of my necessities and again asking you to pardon this liberty, I am, Sir Most Respectfully N. P. BrashearSweet Springs Monroe County Virginia March 2nd 1866 His Honor Judge Holt Sir, Hoping this letter may meet with your perusal & favorable consideration, I hope you will pardon a stranger for the liberty he takes in presuming to address you on a subject which alone concerns the writer. During the Administration of Mr Buchanan I was a Clerk in the Bureau of the Sec'y of War. This appointment I held from Govr. Floyd then the Secratary — The only vacancy in his power to give me. On his retirement I continued to hold the position by your tacit acquiescence for the brief period you filled that honorable Post, & feeling grateful to you for your kindness in this respect, when retired by Mr. Cameron in March 1861, addressed you a hasty note expressive of my regard towards you, although not personally acquainted. When the [*7122*]deplorable civil strife broke out, I left Washington, but would have remained there could I have obtained employment in any capacity I never served in the Confederate Army nor did I ever feel one patriotic emotion towards the vain gloriously styled Southern Confederacy, a sound always harsh & grating to my feelings. Nevertheless I was up to the termination of the war a strong pro slavery advocate I feel no regret now that that institution is forever abolished in this Country. Without further preface I come to my present object namely to secure if so far successful your influence in getting or giving recommending me for a place in one of the Bureaus of the War Dpt. or the Treasury. My first position in Washington was in the census, then in the Pension Office & lastly as above stated in the War Dpt. As to my character & standing as a gentleman I could refer you to the District Attorney Genl. E C Carrington or Col: Drinkard, formerly Chief Clk I am loyal to the Union, if sincerely desiring to see our common county once more prosperous & happy, & living together in the bonds of unity & harmony, constitute loyalty. I am with high regard very respectfully Your Obt Serv't Thos. P. LewisDetroit Mich March 2d 1866 My Dear Sir Fannie received your beautiful present a few days since and would have written to you before now but was ill at the time and has not been able to leave her bed since she is much improved now and as soon as she is able will answer your kind note. We received a long letter from Mother this morning she tells us of the death of Miss English which must have been very sudden. We expect to get into our house [*7123*]by the 15th of this month we will be very pleasantly situated and expect of course if you should ever come to Detroit that you will come and stay with us. It will be so pleasant in the summer if you could come on with Mother I am sure it would do you good. I am very busy getting things to put in the house. Gen Sherman when he was here said I would remain here sometime unless we had war which I hope is a good many years off Fannie sends a great deal of love and many thanks and says it shall not be long before you hear from her - Give my love to Mother Please let us hear from you. I remain as ever Your Grateful Friend C B ThrockmortonMaj. Throckmorton answd. JH.[*Mar 3*] Richelieu, Talleyrand and Statesmen of the 1st & 2nd Ages of the Republic On Saturday Evening the 3rd March at 7 1/2 O'clock some remarks on this subject will be delivered by Joseph S. Wilson, at No. 446, Private Parlor, 13th Street between E. & F, (north house of the Block on East Side) to which you are respectfully invited C.A. [Protor?] Honble. Jos. Holt and Ladies [*7124*]Dear Mr Holt I write to bid you good-bye, as I expect to leave for New York tomorrow If you should visit there within the next few weeks be kind enough to remember me at 66 East 29th St. Do come to Ky to see us in our new house that I may add that memory of you to others [*7125*]which will be always bright and beautiful and full of life-- long interest & delight. Good-bye and Mr Holt I should be only too happy. if amid the stern duties of your life in Washington, your thoughts would occasionally revert to your Native State, and gladden in expression Your sincere friend-- Ms. Rose Speed-- Wednesday March 6thAlexandria Va. March 6. 1866 J. Holt. Judge Advocate Genl Washn. Dear Sir: Though I have not the pleasure of a personal acquaintance with you, I take the liberty of asking your kind consideration for the bearer of this, Mrs. John W. Mankis:— Her husband is one of those involved in the Christmas riots here, which have lately been under examination of a military Commission: - He is state in confinement and she desires to make some statements to you respecting his case: - any relief which you can afford her in her distressed condition would be worthily [historical?]: - I know nothing except in a general way of the facts having [*7126*]upon her husbands case--. I have known him for a considerable period and his previous character would forbid every presumption that he should be criminally implicated in the transactions for which he has been put upon trial. He has, I believe, borne the character of a quiet & peaceful citizen. Again asking your kind consideration for the situation of the bearer, I remain very resp yours S. Ferguson Beach Surveyor of Port of AlexandriaNeb Terr. Cotton Wood Springs March 6th 1866 Sir You require information concerning what was formerly known as the Foreign Batt. And as per News Paper you wished any of the twenty-seven survivors who escaped at the time of the excursion to send their names & address to you. Enclosed find mine. Very Respectfully Your Obt Servant J Harry Mullison Cottonwood Spr'gs Neb Terr To Judge Advocate Genl Washington D.C. [*7127*]Phila Mar 9th Dear Sir You will greatly oblige the under signed by sending him if in your power, "The Review [of] by the Judge Advocate General of the proceedings &c of a Court Martial for the trial of Maj. Gen. F. J. Porter of the USA." And confer a favor on Very truly Yours Chas. H Hart Box 1212 Phila P.O. To the Judge J Holt Judge Advocate Gen. USA Wash DC [*7128*][*EBA*] General Joseph Holt. My dear Sir, You were kind enough to send me, some months since, the enclosed Photograph. Will you add to its value by writing under it — high enough up to be seen when in an Album — your Autograph. Please record also in the back of the Card, the part that you gave it to your friend. Most Sincerely E. B. Anderson 24 St Mark's Place. March 10th 1866. P. S. My husband and daughter join me in kindest regards. — [*7129*]Tuesday, March 12th My dear Sir, Mrs. Saunders and myself accept with pleasure your kind invitation to dine with you tomorrow at 5 Oclock. Very Sincerely your friend D. Saunders, Hon J Holt [*7130*]Washington D.C. March 12/66 Gen'l Judge Advocate Holt Dear Sir-, This will introduce you to T.B. Roby Esq of "Roby's town, Prince Geo's Co Md. A Gentleman who has borne the burden & heat of the day through our long struggle for Liberty & Freedom. He resides - as your honor doubtless knows - near the former residence of the notorious Mrs Surratt - as he captured Dr Mudd & was instrumental in the capture of Booth. he is desirous of knowing what portion of the reward he is to receive. If it is consistent, please give him the required information. With sentiment of distinguished esteem & praying that God may continue to have you in His holy keeping I subscribe myself Yr Obt Srvt W.B. Evans [*7131*]Detroit March 12/66 Dear Mr Holt Time, and again I have attempted to write you since I recieved my lovely little watch but really I have been to ill to think till today - Accept my sincere thanks for this new proof of affection, and be assured I shall always wear it with the consciousness that it has kept time with happy hearts in days gone by, and that even now it [*7132*]is woven with fond memories of the past The kindred links of life are bright and I trust when the storms of affliction surge over us they may still come forth untarnished and unbroken - I can only pray that the Anchor may prove a talisman and that hope, faith and charity ("your motto") may be the brightest stars in my earthly diadem and the crossing in the life that is so comes - With much love and a kiss I remain your affectionate cousin Fanny H ThrockmortonWashington City. D. C. March 14th. 1866. Sir. Pardon the liberty I take in penning you this note. I have been informed that you give out copying from your Office, and ask if this information is correct whether you have any to give me. I am writing in the Fourth Auditor's Office, but am desirous of obtaining some copying to do after Office hours. If you can fix upon an hour to suit you, I will call at your Office I can furnish excellent recommendations. If convenient, please let me hear by the Messenger who delivers this, or reply by mail, according to the address which I will add below. [*7133*]Very Respy, Your Obt. Servt. Mary P. Middleton Hon. Joseph Holt Judge Advocate, U.S.A. Present. Address Miss Mary P. Middleton To the Auditor's Office Treasury Dept.Berkeley Springs March 16th Dear Mr. Holt. I find through the papers that my husbands Reinstatement has been confirmed by the Senate. Does it not entitle him to his back pay. Remembering your never failing kindness to me last Fall, I come to you once again, for advice in this affair. I have just recovered from an attack of Typhoid Fever, and while I am in the South, recuperating, thought I would write and trouble you once again for the necessary information. Would it be asking too much of you to let me know to whom, I [*7134*]should apply. I am entirely ignorant what course to take. When you see Aunt Mary, please give her my warmest love. I hated to trouble her further about my affairs, as she sacrificed every thing to me last Fall. Hoping that you will forgive my trespassing upon your time & kindness, believe me yours sincerely & gratefully. Emily PendletonUniontown Ky March 16th 1866 Hon Joseph Holt Washington City - Dear Sir Mr. W T Berry our Post Master at this place and my self have gone into the Wharf Boat and Commission Business at this place and have to day written W Dennison Post Master general for the appointment to Carry the Mails to and from the Post office free of charge the distance only about 100 yards You will much oblige me by [?ing] Mr Dennison and assist me in getting the appoint Mr [Heard?] & myself had the appointment under You and preformed our duties faithfully by assisting me in this you will confer a lasting favor there is no carrier of the mail at this place please attend to the above immediately and much obliged Yours Truly AD Cooper [*7135*]La Cres Cent Maine March 16th. 1866 Hon J Holt Washington City DC Dear Sir Some 8 or 10 days ago I forwarded to the care of Hon D S Norton affidavits of some 22 or 23 of our Citizens Certifying that the Railroad Company was not & they verily believed did not intend to build the road as per Land Grant Act. This AM I rec'd from Mr Norton a Communication from the Secretary of the Interior acknowledging the recpt of the Affidavits and stating "that a copy of the affidavits had been this day (10th March) transmitted [*7136*]2 to the Commission of the General Land Office for his information from this I would think the Secretary had certified to the Commission of the Land Office I have understood that an agent of the Secretary was out here some two or three weeks since & went over the road built but how the agent could say if he has done so, that the road is being built as required by the Land Grant Act is something we can.t understand - The road being built taps the Miss River some 3 1/2 or 4 miles below La Crescent possibly the Company may have deceived the agent by saying the road was within the Township of La Crescent & that touching the township 3 complied with the act - in 1857 when the Grant was given there was no such thing as the La Crescent Township the Act had reference to this Village of La Crescent or its Corporate limits - in 1858 the Township was named by the County Commissioner after the Village - The present Company has never made even a Survey from La Crescent & to attempt to bring the road from the point where they tap the river on up the river bank to La Crescent is wholy impracticable In 1855 the then Company graded the road from the min across the Miss Bottom to then the limit of our Village to the4 Table land thence down in the table land to the Mouth of Root river running via a small body of water in the Bottom called Target Lake- we or our people claim that the Grant was given to build a road from La Crescent to Target Lake up Root river valley and that the land cannot be rightfully taken to build a road from another & different point-- The Company may say it is the intention to build the road to La Crescent if such statements are made it is done doubtless to deceive-- we desire and request in order that Justice may be done that the matter be fully investigated that done we have no fear of the result5 The City of La Crosse has agreed or rather voted to give the Company $50.000.00 on completion of 20 miles of the road from this point on the river from or to which the road is being built. we (if the land is given to aid Company) we being robed of our Grant & its benefit given entirely to our Neighbor City the City of La Crosse in Wis I cannot believe the officials will give the Company the land if they knew the facts-- every thing I have stated I believe is susceptible of proof clear and positive You are authorized to show this to [?] or both the Secretary & Commission your [?] Thos. M Roberts [*7137*]New York. March 16. 1866. My dear Col. I owe you a thousand apologies for not having written to you and reported progress, before this, or at least before I was reminded of my duty by your note of March 12. I have many reasons to assign honour , for not doing so - most important of which is the fact that every thing is progressing favorably and I had nothing to write. Secondly, I have been very busy, not only with the book but about other things which have engaged my time, and lastly, I have been really sick - So much so as to have been under the Dr's charge and I am not yet out of his hands. Something very like Pneumonia. I am about now, but not out - So you see that although neglectful, I am not entirely inexcusable - As for the book, the Harpers are hurrying it up as rapidly as can be done - in about three weeks. I hope it will be out and it will be handsomely issued - the fact is, they are making a labor of love out of it. The package you sent me to Amincus, was forwarded [*7138*]to me from Washington and everything was safe - Dorn retained copy of the Agreement, Scrap Book &c I will return to you personally, when I go to Washington Thank you for it - Now in regard to Judge Holt. I esteem him as an able and enlightened man and thus respecting him, I am at a loss how to act with reference to his desire that I should actively participate in the R. B. Winder prosecution. I will not yield in devotion to my country and her intents to any one - I have shown that for five years - As a citizen, I know my duty is to aid in proclaiming and punishing of crime, and I am ready to do so. But look at it. By the very little interest rendered in the Wirz trial, I have made myself so obnoxious in my Section of Georgia, that my life is in danger - I have been threatened already - The Genl do not, or will not protect me, but one this certiany they side with them who insult and injure me - They will not even give me an official position, in which I can sustain myself against disimenments, but appoint under my name, the rankish Secessionists and call me a 'coward, incesstly of truth' - Now this is not complimentary, it is not pleasant - it is not even "bucking one's friends" - If I go into this Winder matter, I will uproot some of the prominent men in my part of Geo. and show them participants with him - it will raise a greater storm about my ears, then the Wirz trial did - I am not egotist enough to believe in the paraphrase, of "Salus meipsum, Suprema lex", but I grant that it causes great farce to a man's cenaptions of what is due to himself. If I go into this thing, the effect will be to drive me out of Georgia - then, where am I? It is all proper to talk of the obligations due from the good citizen to his Genl - I acknowledge them to the fullest extent - but I must be guaranteed immunity from personal inquiry by the Genl. I have and I will add, that I have - I ought not to be asked to expose myself and my fortunes to hazard, as I should do, without some protection - I have written them, dear Col. more with the purpose of getting your advise, than of expressing my determination as to my course in this matter - I thought that a full knowledge of my opinions, would guide you in doing what I wish you to do, advise me freely and frankly - not as to my duty. I recognize that - but as to whether I should assume all of the risks, without even a "thank you!"I recd a telegram from Judge Wolli, asking when I could be in Washington to attend to this matter. I replied, in Friday--that is to-day--Which is out of the question now, for I can not go out of my room for some days. I am troubled. I do not wish to oppose the desires of Judge Wolli, for I regard him too highly to thwart his wishes and would rather seek to aid him in his duties--but here am I, asking the little favor of being permitted to copy your argument, refund the privilege--asking Govt. to hasten upon me an office, which too partial friends Say, I am entitled to and can fill, and they are hesitating and will, doubtless, finally give it to one who has never raised his voice for the Union, only when he was on the Safe Side of the line. I have very great confidence in your judgment, Col, and your opinion in this matter will go far to influence me in my action. So, please give it to me, but do not have me before the Reconstruction Committee, yet confide - I am not ready to leave here. Remember me with great kindness to Major Duram and believe me, with a matched [pi???] in my Side. Yours very truly Ambrose Spencer. Col. N. P. Chipman Washington.[*RKS*] Washington City, D. C. No. 232 F St Mar 17th / 66. My dear Judge: "Out of sight, out of mind", is not a true adage, when applied to yourself — Do you know, I have often & over, thought of that incessant worry, of which you complained, some time ago & wondered, whether the new developments of medical Chemistry, might not bring some comfort, to you. — Latterly, attention has been directed, to the use of an old, good remedy, in a new way & style & for entirely different purposes. — Among some of the new effects of the remedy, was that of reducing the pusation in the brain & necessarily, the amount of blood, in that organ — Personally, have I tested it, to reduce the over action of the blood vessels of the brain & thereby relieve the incessant, wearying singing, in the head, which banished sleep, entirely. — With finger on the pulse, I watched the effect of the agent [*7139*] [*I ought mention, that Major Montgomery knows nothing of the contents of this letter, of course*]& to my joy, the pulsations lessened, every minute, the teasing singing, became less noticeable & watching for the effect, I fell fast asleep. — The other day, at my morning consultation, I gave the remedy, to a gentleman of note, whose brain had been active & to whose pillow, balmy, natural sleep, rarely came, on acct of this everlasting teakettle. Leaving town, for a long travel, he reported to me, perfect success — he could induce sleep & quiet the noise — at will. He came for a repetition of the remedy. I could name many cases, in which, its sedative effects, have been clearly obtained. — Though a "sleep-inducer", it is not a narcotic; nor should the used, as or with such — its action is entirely different — It, on the contrary, prevents congestion & diminishes the morbid quantity of blood, in the brain. — It is perfectly harmless — In your case, I came to the conclusion, that the noise, or coufing, was due, to excess of blood, in the brain — or, to enlargement of some of the arteries of the auditory apparatus — or to enlargement of the carotid artery, when it turns this the temporal bone, near auditory machine. — Of all then, I most strongly inclined to the first - in too much blood, or circulation, in the brain. - The remedy is perfectly simple & harmless - I have often (lately) thought of dropping you a few lines - since the requisition of this reliable weapon - but pressure of cases would often interfere & at other times, I feared, you might consider me, impertinent! The unexpected insist it my old friend, Major Montgomery, recalled the matter & I begged him, to convey this to you. Now, if you still suffer with those head symptoms, of which you complained so much & for which, I knew so few remedies - I would suggest the use of this remedy - It might, it can be best taken - tho' I often give it, three times daily. The formula I give, at night, is as follows, or as you will find, on the enclosed paper of this, I give a tablespoonful, or retiring & if not enough, repeat it, after a while - If desirable, I prepare another Solution, for the day & give a tablespoonful, twice, in the day - as before breakfast & dinner & the night done, in retiring at night 0 If you haven't used this admirable remedy & you still suffer, I would earnestly advise to one.. I am sure, you will appreciate my motives & attribute this intrusion, to its real cause - as a sincere desire to benefit you - Believe me Most Respectfully & Sincerely Yours, W Thrig Stone. Hon Joseph Holt.- [*This medicine should be taken, in a little water - not more than a wineglassful -*] Bloomfield Ky March 19.66 Hon Jesse Kincheloe Dear Sir Yours of the 14th for which I am much obliged to you is recd. You say, "In regard to the rents of which you speak my understanding is that your Aunt held the land for some time by consent of those jointly interested with the understanding that she was not to account for rents and she no doubt would have been very much surprised, if any claim of rent had been asserted against her-- If that is correct her estate ought not to pay and I could not undertake to pay unless by consent of those interested" "If this is incorrect" but it is not correct in any particular. I was the Exr. of Aunt Mima's will and never exchanged one word directly or indirectly with Aunt Mary about the land. [*7149*]nor did she mention it to me I was informed and no doubt correctly that Aunt Mary was very much embittered against us because Aunt Mima had given her nothing by her will. That she had possession of the land by a tenant, and declared her purpose of holding it exclusively for her own benefit, and that there was great probability that if we made an effort to secure our share of the rent, that she might become exasperated & phensied to such a degree as to impair her mind, of which misfortune to her there has always, [be] since my recollection, been apprehensions among her relatives. Sharing in these apprehensions I took no steps in the matter, hoping that some day would bring a return of moderation & justice to Aunt Mary or that opportunity might present for me to disarm her of the prejudice & hostility she had for us. But I never met her but one & that was directly after Aunt Mimas death I expect Aunt Mary was surprised that I did not claim rent, if she was surprised at all, If an assertion of claim would have been a surprise it could only have been because she had penetrated our motives, which in the state of her feelings toward us she would never have credited us with I rather think she she regard the tenure by which she held land & rents as that "of might" We never came to any understanding or gave any consent to Aunt Mary to hold the land [or] keep rents, or to any body else & would never have done it It is true we never decided to sue Aunt Mary & probably never would have done that. We knew that she was having the timber cut off& was injuring the land permanently but no unkind word was ever sent her about it. If you would consent to assume the character of a judge once more I would be [willing that] glad to have you decide the matter, for I am confidant that the engenuity & dexterity of the argument, that a humane and affectionate forbearance divested the party of all claim of right & that the party should take nothing because he had failed to act in a cruel & brutal maner would weigh nothing in your judgement. I have no doubt that you & cousin Joe Holt will coincide with me when you learn the facts, which you can in the bottomWashington February 19. 1866. My Dear Sir: Having just received a letter from the "Sunny South", from our mutual friend Mrs Miller, I am reminded that she once told me that you expressed the wish to see some of her friends, (Mrs Briggs) writings. As such a wish on your part amounts to a command to my humble self, I enclose you a paper containing my "Irrepressible Conflict," and one of the Slimmens Papers which are being published in the "Philadelphia Sunday Press." You will accept my thanks for one of the sunniest days I have ever spent in Washington. Tis true my "beloved Job" insinuated that I was a tail to Mrs Miller's kite. But what matter, so long as it took me skyward? Please accept my wishes for your continued health and happiness, and believe me Yours Truly, Emily Edson Briggs. Hon Joseph Holt. } [*7141*]Louisville, Ky. March 2nd / 67 Gen. Wm I K. Dunn. Asst Judge Advocate General Washington D.C. General Dr. Bell, with whom I am personally acquainted has written to Judge Holt, asking his influence with the Hon. Secty of War in my behalf. I desire to obtain the appointment of Assistant Quartermaster in the Regular Army. If it is not asking to which I would deem it a life long favor if you will see Judge Holt, and ask him to assist me. Have James Speed has written to the Hon. Sect War, twice in my favor Col. Briston, Hon. Sen Ballard [*7142*]and many other persons well known, will furnish any recommendations that may be regained more than has been given. I trust you will pardon the liberty I have taken in asking this favor, and hope I may be able to repay it. I remain Very Respectfully Your Ob't servnt E.B.W. Restieaux late Capt. & A.Q.M."Uniontown Ky Mch 20th 1866 Hon Joseph Holt Washington City D C Dear Sir Having troubled you so much of late on small matters I will have to apologize but hoping to return the favor at some future time I will again ask another favor of you There has been a petition gotten up in this place for the purpose of removing my Partner who is post Master at this place from his position The petition to remove him was gotten up for the purpose of removing the Post office in the extreme end of the town at the Wharf Boat at that place There is a remonstrance against it getting up and will be composed of the majority of the Business men of the place as the Post Office is now in a central location and the wishes of the citizens is that our present P M General Dennison will show hoping you will use your influence in the matter and let us keep our present P M This is allso a petition from the Ladies of this place protesting aganst the removal as it will place the P O immediatly beside a whisky shop and not a suitable place for Ladies to visit the office both petitions are comprised of [7143] our best Citizens Yours Truly A D Cooper Hardinsburg March 22nd 1866 Dear Sir- On the 19th I sent by Mr. Stith $600- to be deposited in the Bank of Kentucky at Louisville, to your credit. I suppose it is there now-- I have paid to James G. Stephens $239.16, the amt. of several notes he held on yr aunt-- the bal. in my hands, I have retained to pay taxes &c. The other day I received a letter, from Eli. H. Stone. operting claim, to rents for the place I sold to Reynolds on the river--and asking me whether I would pay it. I answered him, that my understand was, that yr aunt controlled the farm, by consent of other joint owners--with the understanding that, she was not to account for rent, and that she would have been very much surprized, if rent had been demanded of her--in her lifetime, and that I did not feel authorized to pay. Since I wrote him, I have seen yr brother, Tom, who informs me, that upon the death of her sister--yr aunt, claimed the right to hold the place--and the other owners--not willing to disturb her--permitted her to control it. This is probably the true state of the case. Under these circumstances, what shall I do? Whether the claim can be established by law, is doubtful, whether you desire under the circumstances, to litigate the matter--if pressed, is [7144] submitted to you-- If the President, intends to make treason, infamous, he has no time to lose. It is rampant and triumphant in Kentucky. Traitors,--that is men, who have opposed the war, for the preservation of the Union, and whose sympathies have been with the rebellion, are now holding coventions through the Country--to nominate Candidates for County offices &c. & appointing delegates to a convention, to be held in Louisville on the 1st of May. It is significant of the spirit & temper of the times--that the most active rebels, have control of these meetings and are the nominees for office. And generally it is believed, that the fighting rebels will be preferred, to those who remained at home. Altho' the latter may have rendered more service to the Confederacy. Major John. P. Thompson & Smith (Morgans adjutant, together with other well known rebels, & secessionists) of the stay at home party, are candidates for clerk of the Court of Appeals. It is generally believed, Smith will receive the nomination. Thompson says however--that Smith by his unfaithfulness caused the Capture of Morgan. And all of Morgans friends will go for him--&-- In Davis County, Col. Meninger who lost an arm in the rebel service, is candidate for County attorney. Lieut Tom Moreland & Jones of the rebel army--are candidates for County Court clerk. Major Geo. Triplett, who first suggested to Buckner, the destruction of the dams on Green River--for County Judge--and their competitors-- are of the same politics, but were not warriors. In our County, the candidates for sheriff & County Judge--were not allowed to run for office two & 4 years ago--but will now probably be elected. The fact is loyal men, will have to ask an amnesty from the rebels. They cannot live, under the oppressive weight of the rebellion, and the government both-- and the government seems determined to show no quarters, to those who have aided in its preservation. Rebels are unfranchised, washed, purified, and honored-- the poor loyalist, has all of his sins upon him. And none so poor as to do him reverence. The rebels, have gotten up a system of proscription, extending to business matters & every thing else of interest to man. I hope the President will soon have accomplished his work, of rendering treason infamous--if not--the loyalists of Kentucky will have to seek a more friendly clime. To be ruled, domineered over--by men, who did what they could--to destroy the government is an intolerable degradation--yet that is the prospect before us-- I was exceedingly sorry to see a split between the President & Congress--and especially the Presidents speech of the 22nd we need all our strength to reconstruct the government--if we divide-- I dread the consequences. Of course--all of Kentucky--is for the Presidents veto-speech-- and any thing, that makes war--upon the so called radicals. Even loyal men are silenced--they are helpless. The veto message is, of no particular importance, except as indicating a breach between the executive and Congress of itself it is nearly nothing-- nor do I understand the President--in the message to differ from the majority of Congress as to the principle of reconstruction, both requiring loyalty in the Constituents and representatives-- but it seems some how to be understood that the President favors the immediate admission of representatives, without regard to loyalty in either. I hope time, will remove all of our difficulties--and that we may enjoy, that, for which we have paid so highly--the blessings of a free & beneficent government-- Yrs &c [???] W. KincheloeWashington 23 March 1866 Judge Holt In the case of Dr Potts referred to you by the President, I feel anxious that, justice should be done to him, I know he has been the victim of prejudice, inspired by [Inequal?] duty &c With high respect & true regard I am yours A C [Haskins?] [*7145*]Louisville — Ky. March, 26 — General — I cannot restrain the impulse of thanking you for the order, issued through your instrumentality. The prospect of getting to work again is, in itself, most pleasant. But there are many reasons why this order is a God-send to me. Of some of these I have heretofore spoken, and I do not intend further to trespass upon your time, except to mention on thing, which I do from a feeling that I would like you to know upon what work – amongst other things — I expect to be — indeed am already engaged. [*7146*]My attention has for some time past been turned towards the subject of Martial Law — More particularly Martial Law as a domestic or municipal fact. I hope to be able some day to present something [which] useful, and, now that I can take advantage of the New York libraries, I shall devote myself to the work, so far as the other matters will admit of. I have only mentioned this to one or two friends — it being premature to speak about it — but I have taken the liberty of making you acquainted with my designs, with the hope that you will think well of it. Be kind enough to excuse me for having made myself the subject of this letter My object has been to assure you of my appreciation of the order which (besides many other advantages) will enable me to carry out this intention. Believe me, General With high regard very respectfully your obdt. svt. G. N. Licher Gen. J. Holt Judge Advocate GeneralINSURED by ADAMS EXPRESS COMPANY, for to only, Except against loss occasioned by the public enemy. INSURANCE, $ For the Company, Adams Express Company GREAT EASTERN, WESTERN AND SOUTHERN EXPRESS FORWARDERS No. 1. WASHINGTON, D.C. Mch 24 186[5]6 RECEIVED OF one Box Value asked not given Marked Rev. Geo Diehl Frederick Md Which it is mutually agreed is to be forwarded to our Agency nearest or most convenient to destination only, and there delivered to other parties to complete the transportation. It is part of the consideration of this contract, and it is agreed, that the said Express Company ARE FORWARDERS ONLY, and are not to be held liable or responsible for any loss or damage to said property while being conveyed by the CARRIERS to whom the same may be by said Express Company entrusted, or arising from the dangers of Railroads, Ocean or River Navigation, Steam, Fire in Stores, Depots, or in Transit, Leakage, Breakage, or from any cause whatever unless, in every case, the same be proved to have occurred from the fraud of gross negligence of said Express Company, or their servants, for in any event shall the holder hereof demand beyond the sum of FIFTY DOLLARS, at which the article forwarded is hereby valued, unless otherwise herein expressed, or unless specially insured by them, and so specified in this receipt, which insurance shall constitute the limit of the liability of the Adams Express Company. And if the same is entrusted or delivered to any other Express Company, or Agent, (which said Adams Express Company are hereby authorized to do,) such Company or person so selected shall be regarded exclusively as the agent of the shipper or owner, and, as such, alone liable, and the Adams Express Company shall not be in any event responsible for the negligence or non-performance of any such Company or person; nor in any event shall said Express Company be liable for any loss or damage, unless the claim therefor shall be presented to them, in writing, at this office, within thirty days after this date, in a statement to which this receipt shall be annexed. All articles of GLASS, or contained in Glass, or any of a fragile nature, will be taken at Shipper's risk only, and the Shipper agrees that the Company shall not be held responsible for any injury by breakage or otherwise, nor for damage to goods not properly packed and secured for transportation. It is further agreed that the said Company shall not in any event be liable for any loss, damage or detention caused by acts of God, Civil or Military Authority, or by Rebellion, Piracy, Insurrection, or Riot, or the dangers incident to a time of war. For the Company, Pilson FREIGHT, Paid 50¢Danville Ky March 28/66 Hon Joseph Holt Washington City, D C My dear Sir I was instructed by the Q. M. Genl. or Assistant when the inclosed papers were prepared to send direct to the Office of the Q M Genl & not through any Claim Agent. I take the liberty of requesting you to have them handed in for which I will feel very grateful. As we have been very seriously embarrassed by the destruction of this property I would be glad if the papers would receive as prompt attention as may be consistent with the duties & responsibilities of the office Very Respctly Your obt Svt Jno. T. Fackler [*7148*]Jno. F. Fackler —Bardstown March 28th 1866 Mr Joseph Holt Very respected Sir I now address you asking your friendly Aid in obtaining pay for the only man slave I had, That the Federals pressed in the military service in December 1864 I saw in the public print, that the owners of slaves want get pay for their slaves, that was pressed in the service Since that time the Government has Liberated all the slaves, which well nigh ruined me My servants brought me in a very genteel support, I am now over three score years of age and unable to work and Do business as in my younger years - what am I To Do now, The Government has cut off my revenue of support by Liberating my slaves. Surely I should be paid for the one taken off to the Army by force. I have the certificate showing that He was in the military service, May I expect your Aid in this matter You probably Do not know me by my present name But you knew me when I was the widow Bard I am unfortunately a widow again - Your first wife and myself were particular friends - Your brother Joseph boarded with me when he studied Law with Atty Chapaze - But that has nothing to do in the case I wish you if you please to instruct me how to get pay for my Slave .He was Young and Disirable I was offered $1300 Cash in my hand for Him. But I thought that money could not Buy Him He Suited Me So well. But I will now take Money for Him please Inform me if there is any chance to get pay for Him Very respectfully Ann. H. Kincheloe[*March 1866*] 446. 14th Street General I enclose herewith an installment of evidence vs Gee which is by far the most damaging I have yet seen & seems to be the concurrent testimony of three witnesses. I talked with Mr. Miller of Raleigh (postmaster &c) a day or two ago. He says Gee's friends are becoming alarmed and these apprehensions were before the testimony this evidence was [*7150*]brought out — The Judge Advocate is manifesting a new vigor in the case which leads me to express a fear that I may have misjudged him and I take this occasion so to say. Mr .Spencer wrote me the other day personal to himself and as the greater portion of the letter should be seen by yourself I beg you may trouble yourself to read it Sincerely & gratefully Yours N. P. ChipmanBoston April 2nd 1866. Judge Holt, Dear Sir, Although personally unknown to you, I take the liberty of addressing you in behalf of my husband Mr. T. C. A. Dexter. I understand his case is in your hands. He has been in close confinement in Mobile since the 7th of November, & undergone a trial before a Military Commission, which so far as I am informed, failed to substantiate any of its charges. May I not appeal to you in view of the character he has always maintained as a business man, to do him justice, & release us all from this wearing suspense? He is not strong, & the long confinement with all the anxieties of his position, is telling severely upon his health, His Father too who is an aged man has, within the past year buried the other of his two sons - & the position of this his only remaining Son, is a heavy burden for his old age. In this Community as well as in New Orleans & Mobile, I am sure you will find him relied upon as a merchant of integrity & honor. If wrongs have been committed in his [*7151*]Department, it must have been by those under him, & I trust you will not meak an innocent family in the offences of others. Your wife will remember me, probably, tho I have not had the pleasure of meeting her for many years, as a daughter of Col Freeman Cross of the Army, who lost his life in the Mexican War. Her Sister, Mrs. Merrick, I have seen more recently; & if I know how to reach her should be sure of interesting her in our behalf — If not too much pressed with business to do so, may I beg the favor of you to drop me a line & let me know how the case stands. Very respectfully yrs. Marion C. Dexter. 52 Chester Sq. Monday.Washington, D. C. April, 2nd, 1866. Hon Joseph Holt; Dear Sir: For former kindnesses extended to me, I am deeply grateful, and necessity alone must be my apology for troubling you with this note. I am now in the Dead Letter Office, of the Post Office Department, at a salary of $720. per annum, being $60 per month, less 5 per cent tax on excess over $600 per annum. Now Judge, you know, and it is almost useless for me to state that, at the current prices of the necessaries of life, it is impossible for me to live and support my family on this meagre salary. Promotions will, I am satisfied, be made in a few days; and those Clerks only who can secure political influence in their behalf, will be successful. I have no one to rely upon but you; Judge, if you will only see the Postmaster General, and ask that my salary be increased, over [*7152*]I am sure it will be done. If you cannot do this an earnest letter from you might prove of great service to me. I must inevitably become involved in debt unless something is done to relieve me. Will you be kind enough to let me hear from you at your earliest convenience? I have the honor to be, Very truly and gratefully your obliged friend and humble Svt. Wm. B Galer76 Columbia St. Brooklyn April 2nd 1866 Hon Joseph Holt Washington D.C. Hon Sir I have the pleasure of extending to you an earnest and cordial invitation in behalf of "The Sumter Club" to meet with it upon the anniversary of the reraising of the old flag - at Sumter via; - the 14th inst - at the Mansion House of this City. The club is composed of the passengers of the Steamer Oceanus, a vessel which accompanied your party upon that historical occasion. Hoping to hear from you soon and with a favorable reply - I am Yours, most truly Edwin A. Studwell Secretary Sumter ClubHall of Representatives Harrisburg Pa April 5th 1866 Mr. Joseph Holt Judge Adv Genl Washington Dear Sir I have the honor to make application to you for a copy of your autograph. As valuable addition to a large number from other eminent persons already in my possession, it will be highly prized, and I think fully appreciated by Your very obedient servant Y. H. Hemperley Reporter Penna Legislature [*7154*][*Apr 5*] Genl. Holt Dear Sir: My conscience has troubled me ever since I wrote to ask a favor for a friend. The gentleman has been a surgeon in the army, and wished to know the success of some operations he performed while in the army, for some paper he is writing. He came to ask if Mr C. could write a note to some person of position in Washn. to aid him in getting the information, and was so disappointed at not finding him, that on impulse, I said I would write to you, if he were sure [*7153*]it would not require you to use any influence, save the mere sending it. I did not imagine he was asking something contrary to regulations. Please forgive me, and be assured I will never thus trespass again. I thank you for your photographs — they sail for France next week. I am going to have mine taken this week; if it succeeds, I will send it to you with Mr C's, and I hope you will return one of yours. I search the papers for some expression of your opinion on political subjects - but in vain. Mr C. is conservative — and I, (so far as a woman can understand matters) am very radical. I think if we do not attend to the root of the matter now, troubles have only begun. I have been enjoying Trumball's speech this morning, as far as I can get it, cut up as it is in the "Times". It is very provoking to have Raymond's non sequiturs and vacillations given, sometimes twice, in detail - while a speech like Trumbull's is half left out. Excuse my taking up your time. You will oblige me by not answering this - as I know you will forgive my hasty fault. Can you not find time to visit us this spring? We have a large room at your disposal - and we will not try to entertain you, nor need any one know you are here. Believe me, with the highest esteem, truly yours Margaret E. Crosby. 306 Second Av - April 5th / 66