Office of J.P. Harrison, Jr., & Co., Cotton Factors & General Commission Merchants, 66 Baronne Street. New Orleans, July 21st 1882, Hon Joseph Holt, Washington, D.C. Dear Sir- In 1874 my father, J.P. Harrison, died insolvent, & tho' not connected with him in business I voluntarily assumed, in a large measure, his debts, & succeeded in paying the mast of them. Being poor at the time, the burden was a very heavy one for me to bear & although I did what I intended as the on start in paying for him what his death kept him from doing for himself, it left me a bankrupt in my own affairs and I am to day writing to you one of his oldest friends, to ask your influence in my behalf towards obtaining a position here in the Government. I have my father's habits of business & I can give every assurance from our leading bankers & merchants for capacity & integrity- I have never mixed in the political affairs of this state on any question and have no aspirations politically, having been reared a business man having only business habits- The power here [*239*]is vested in Genl Badger, but the power behind him is Hon W. P. Kellogg. Senator─ I am in a position here which would enable me to give bond if needed─ I can fill almost any position & will be very greatful to you for any assistance that you may give me. I am aware that you retired from the political world years ago, but from your honorable life while in it I still hope that you will be able to paint art a proper course for me to take in requesting a position─ My mother still lives & remembers you─ Hoping, sir, that I have not wearied you I beg to remain Very respectfully Yr obt svt J. P. Harrison JrJESSE W. KINCHELOE. MORRIS ESKRIDGE. KINCHELOE & ESKRIDGE, Attorneys at Law. BRECKINRIDGE CIRCUIT COURT Second Monday in April and October. QUARTERLY COURT, Second Monday in March, June, September and December. Hardinsburg, Ky. July 26th, 1882. Dear, Sir. Yesterday, I sent you $231.20 for the sale bond on Harrington after deducting additional costs and my commission. This transaction took place as a result of a judgment against T. Richardson for land that was originally sold to Horn. Yours, Jesse. W. Kincheloe. [*240*]Lenington July 28. 1882 Hon J. Holt My dear Sir, Your letter just recd. informing me, that you had lately had some symptoms of paralysis, greatly distressed us all, for we all feel that you are one of us — we sincerely trust, that those symptoms have passed or will soon pass away & that you will soon be as strong as at your time of life & at my time of life, either of us could reasonably expect to be! God grant that each of us may reach the end without having to bear any of those heavy afflictions to which the old ever so liable, & which when they come, make life itself a daily wearing & a daily burden we can neither throw off, nor bear with for [t??] all — We both have had our shares of suffering & of sorrow — Indeed I sometimes feel, that my portion of toil & trouble has been greater than that of the average of men — But poor creature, our own burdens are always & much heavier to us [*241*]then those of our neighbors — we sink under our own though comparatively light scarcely feeling those burdens which are crushing others. But have we not also had our share of the world's blessings? How many, or rather, how few of our acquaintances have been as fortunate as you & I have been? — I am sure you feel & think about this matter as gratefully — as thoughtfully as I do — Indeed when I look back on the long past I feel a consciousness of having been guided & cared for by a Power I then did not appreciate & even now can not understand — I feel that I have been led by a hand I did not see & by ways strange & new, the end & incidents of which I could not foresee even in my dreams — I feel indeed, that my humble career —diversified by [un????????] result, has been & is a marvel & mystery to myself — I claim no credit for the good fortune that occasionally crowned me & [made] make no complaint of the evil days when the evil days came — I have so many blessings to thank God for that I rebuke the first murmur that rises as it will sometimes rise in my naturally rebellious heart. — And I have no doubt you look back on your past like pretty much as I do on my own — Do you not see the finger of God in it? I am sure you do. You probably did not in times past see any more clearly than I then did, the invisible hand that was leading you. [?] That invisible hand was unconsciously to yourself leading you & at times through much tribulation to the Independence you have secured & the Honors you have worn & wear — you did not see it then & yet you are sure now, that His Hand through the long past has a firm Hold upon your Hand — That Hand has moulded your career & I feel that my career though wide apart from yours, was fashioned by the same Hand & as I contemplate the blessings which surround me in helpless old age I look to him with unutterable thanks & pray Him not to withdraw his protections care from me & mine as I pray him not to withdraw it from you — Trust Him now [that] though you may not understand him now any more than you did in the past. — When able please drop me a line assuring me that you are being gradually restored to youyour usual health — In the mean time be assured of the sympathies & best wishes of us all your old friend J O Harrison I omitted to [mention] say that we are all in usual health except that my youngest daughter, Susan, is & for some time has been quite unwell from what we fear is some affliction of the Heart — That fear troubles us all very much — I pray God there may be no sufficient ground for the uneasiness we feelLexington, Ky Aug 1st 82 My dear Mr Holt Your reply to my Fathers last letter was, as your letters always are, a pleasure Shared by the house hold, Contrary to his Custom however My Father did not put it away among his treasures, but gave it to me to be Kept with mine. Evidently thinking the kind things said of me gave me the first claim to it, In years to come it will delightfully recall that pleasant breakfast and the friend My Father delights to associate with the quiet joys of his home life, I spoke of your letter as a pleasure but it was not unalloyed for the tone was sad and filled us with apprehension [*242*]for your health. I wish you were hear us that we might show our interest, and perhaps help to brighten a little the days that are dark. I fancy that you and my Father in talking over the past would renew your youth and feel again some thing of the glow and sign of the days when you were first associated. You no doubt would find my Father more changed than his letters would lead you to expect for he gives you I think only the bright side of a picture not with out its shadows. Indeed I have often the gravest fears for the health of both Parents for though wonderfully well for persons of their age and naturally delicate constitutions they are at times extremely feeble. My Father seems often kept up by force of will alone, knowing the vast importance of his life to those for whom he lives. His courage and energy are remarkable, & to me there is some thing grand in the uncomplaining fortitude with which he has met disappointments and borne weary burdens. There is in his nature I think much of a high heroic element, like the old Romans he so delights to honor. My Mother though always delicate is I think the stronger of the two. She is the most evenly cheerful person I ever knew, enjoys to the uttermost all the blessings & pleasures of her life and bearing its trials with reliquations. Her days whether they bring joy or care are brightened by that light which streams alonefrom the Cross, to which her eyes are lifted. She hath wished me to say that she hears you is remembrance in her prayers. The household waits in love, and solicitude for your health of which we hope soon to have a more cheering report. With respect and affection Very truly your friend, I am Very truly your friend Mary E. HarroldJESSE W. KINCHELOE. MORRIS ESKRIDGE. KINCHELOE & ESKRIDGE, Attorneys at Law. BREKENRIDGE CIRCUIT COURT Second Monday in April and October. Quarterly Court, Second Monday in March, June, September and December. Hardinsburg, Ky. August 4th 1882 Dear Sir─ I sent you by express to day $122.45 bal. collected of Ivar Gray after deducting Comm on sale of land to him Yours truly Jesse W. Kincheloe I have not yet recd─ and acknowledgement of the last remittance (July 25th $231.20)JESSE W. KINCHELOE. MORRIS ESKRIDGE. KINCHELOE & ESKRIDGE, Attorneys at Law. BREKENRIDGE CIRCUIT COURT Second Monday in April and October. QUARTERLY COURT Second Monday in March, June, September and December. Hardinsburg, Ky. Sept 5th 1882 Dear Sir, I sendt you by express yesterday $87 the [widow?] of $103. collected of D. T. Spradling for land, after deducting Commission – $7.72 and taxes $8.29 [Yours]? [&c?] Jesse W. Kincheloe [*244*]Cloverport, Ky. Sept. 12th Hon. J. Holt: Dear Sir – I had been anticipating the pleasure and honor of dedicating the new "Memorial Chapel" built by your liberality; now fast approaching completion: but I have been disappointed in the effort to recover my voice sufficent to preach and will have to abandon the hope for the present. I am glad to know that it would have been agreeable to the people in the bottoms for me to have preached the dedicating sermon. But as I cannot I [?] you [*245*]this notes in order that you may make other arrangements, as I suppose you will want to do quite soon. The Church is going to be "the perfection of beauty" when completed, and I trust will be helpful to that community in many ways. With best wishes for your happiness, I remain, yours sincerely, S. C. Allen[*Mrs Crosby*] GRAND HOTEL HUNGARIA IN BUDAPEST. Budapest, Sept. 17th / 82. Dear Mr Holt; I must write you one more letter from this very foreign part; it is so strange, so like our Eastern sensations, that I turn to you, my first travelling friend. I wonder if you came down the Danube — When I left home it was a pet desire to get a look at a Hungarian puszta (like our prairies,) to hear their gypsy music — and to see their free untrammeled peasant life, and all this I have done — I hope too to go to the Carpathian mountains — but a day's detention [*246*]here prevented that we did go as far as Temesvar (get down your map!) and were favored in having a fair and market day — with crowds of Wallachian peasants who, as I couldn't go to Wallachia, came to the fair and me — but I was not Mahomet enough to make the mountains come too! What a strange country it is! every thing seems wholesale — the ride over the great plain was [???] one bit tiresome, but a rest and was a panorama of strange new sights — the vast droves of cattle — hundreds of horses — not a fence to be seen — gypsy encampments — with their weird groups of streaming-haired men and women — white oxen with breadth of horn-stretch which seemd to rejoice in the freedom of the plain — the peasants in loose garments showing their oriental neighborhood — brilliant embroideries of gold and silver, half covered with wild-looking sheep skin mantels — I wish I could send you some photographs I have of grand old peasants — whose daily speech, they say, is oriental poetry, the life on the plain gives them a far-away expression, that one never finds at home — We have been quite spoiled for grand modern cities like Vienna with their sight-seeing duties — and this little run has given us a freshbreezy sensation before shopping in Paris which — which, in our case, will be very mild! A Hungarian friend had told me at home, of the hotel in Pest where a gypsy band plays every evening — there is a large square court — covered with glass at the top of the house (the galss cover I mean) quite the sensation of an open garden — with plants around — fountains &c — while one is fully sheltered and there they play every evening one can hear the herds of wild horses rushing over the plains, the sighing of the wind, the wild rollicking of a life in a big nature — the sadness which comes with the sunset across the expanse of plain — all reproduced inGRAND HÔTEL HUNGARIA IN BUDAPEST. Budapest, thrilling sounds. The old gypsy leader is a splendid old specimen. (I have his photograph too.) he has twenty five children and some of them form his band — as he plays he seems lost in an ecstasy — swaying to the strains, and turning with a passionate appeal of his violin to his band, to follow on and on: you can imagine nothing wilder or more inspiriting — what a problem the gypsies are! We have seen them now in Spain and here. They seem the last glimmerings of a rich run-down nature, with the sadness of the [*247*]lost opportunities clinging to them, you will never call this letter "beaten" metal! We had a charming ten days among the Dolomite mountains, north of Venice — muc the sensation, I should fancy, of being among the burned out craters of the moon — wonderful mountain [forms?] — some of them strangely like Sinai — then to Botzeer, Merace, Zuspruck, Salzburg — Vienna and here — This week we go to Prague, Nuremberg — Heidelberg — Cologne & Paris — spending next Sunday, I mean, at Nuremberg — the following Sunday at Paris — and on the 14th Oct I hope to sail for home — Why won't you come on and make us a little visit? I know I could excuse you with my traveller's stories! I do hope you are quite well again Always your true friend, Margaret E. Crosby — I wish you could see the queer words in Hungarian — the signs across the street from our window are wonders — it seems an orphan asylum for letters forsaken by other languages — the y's — v's — z's — k's flourish in wholesale droves like everything else — I haven't told you a word about this fine city — with the heights of [Of??] across the Danube — the whole-hearted Hungarian patriot? whenever I hear of hiim I think of you!!Cloverport, Ky. Sept 21st Mr Holt, Dear Sir, I received yours of the 18th this morning and hasten to reply. I had thought of Bishop Kavanaugh as the most suitable person to dedicate the new church, and so suggested to the family when I was up two months ago. As you say the Bishop is conveniently situated so that it will not be at all inconvenient for him to go down. Beside, though you did not know it, he has a good deal of leasure. The [*248*]church having releived him on account of his age from very much labor and secured him a liberal salary. I have no doubt he will take pleasure in performing the services on that occasion. His permanent residence is in the city; though he is at present spending the summer at "Kavanaugh Camp ground". I believe the church is about completed. It would be very gratifiying to me to be able to report it at our Conference which convenes on this 11th Oct. I hardly think we have time to get ready to dedicate it before that time, but this is not necessary in order to its being reported. All that is necessary is that it be deeded, and this I suppose could be attended to meMy time will close with this [people?] with the Conference, I have felt such an interest in the "Bottoms" and for many years, that I do [want?] to report the addition of the "Memorial Chapel" during my administration, and also upon the Conference floor that is is given to the church through your liberality. If, however, there is anything in the way to prevent this I shall be satisfied. If you wish it I can go to see Bishop Kavanaugh in regard to the dedication or correspond with him. I hope when it is dedicated to be present though I do not know. Allow me to say that it would afford your many friends in the bottoms and myself great pleasure if your health would permit you to visit the Bottom at that time [*249*]In conclusion, allow me to thank you in behalf of my Church for your generous gift. May the God to whose service this Sanctuary is to be consecrated reward you abundantly in this life and in the life to come, Your friend Sincerely, S. C. AllenLexington Sept 27. 1882 My dear Sir, I have not heard of you or from you for a long time — again and again I ask myself the question, "How are you this morning?" — And as I am a poor sleeper, the same question often comes back to me in the middle of the night — But as of course I get no answer to any such question & as my anxiety to know how [are] you are increases day by day, I must propound the same question to you — I sincerely trust, that the symptoms that disturbed you some time ago & which have disturbed us ever since, have left you, & that now you are as well as either of us could expect to be in this the evening of our lives. — Please let me know what the fact is, for all of us must meet the facts of life, whatever they may be & whether we like them or not. I have to meet them daily in my own case and though some of them are hard to [*250*]bear yet when I reflect that the hard facts in my case could be much harder and heavier than they are, I thank God that it is as well with me as it is — Though, for instance, I am very feeble — so much so indeed, that for several years I have & can & am too feeble to labor in my profession or at any thing else, yet I am free of bodily pains & have no chills or fever — I am only a worn out machine that cant be repaired — It is impossible to rejuvenate the old & "No man pulleth a piece of a new garment upon the Old". Though it is a great comfort to have no sickness or pains with my debility, yet I am daily oppressed by the many idle hours to which I am subject — My chief resource in such case is in my own home & in the memories of a long & greatly diversified life — they are the two volumes always before me & these I have read & re-read until I know them by heart — I to be sure read a good deal, probably more than I should — My eyes have been sadly at fault for the last six months — They have become "cranky" — the sight of the one does not keep pace with the sight of the other — Each seems to be always looking on its "own hook" without regard to the other — Each has its own sepaarate [focus] focus & the result is a confused & blurd. vision that worries me greatly — But as I know of no remedy I grin & endure it — Why these poor old eyes, so long associate in a friendly effort to serve me, should have fallen out with each other, is a mystery I cant explain — I however must treat them gently & alike, for they have served me well & long & I dont know which of the two is most to blame for the rumpus between them — My heart too sometimes, startles me by its occasional capers — I think it fortunate that I have but one heart — Had I two instead of one, & were they to be at outs with each other as my eyes are I could not answer for the result — I suppose that in such case, it would be a death wrestle in which they & I would would perish together — Sometimes, this one heart without the slightest warning, seems to be trying a summersault — whether it ever succeeds in the effort or not, I cant say, but at times it approaches or seems to approach so near to a complete summersault, that to say the least there is no fun in it. I however must forgive my old heart for its occasional effort (it may be) to amuse me — It seems to be conscious, that I complain of the loss of my strength & perhaps wishes to stimulate me to fresh efforts by showing me its own agility — see, it seems to say, "See what I can do & "I am as old as you are" — To which I can only say, Ah! my dear old heart, no more of that if you love me — But beside all this, it has had a hard time & I must indulge its caprices & especially as long as it presents to me as it does in all my vacant hours, pictures of the long past now so precious to me — Its pictures are ever fresh & true to Nature & to fact & among them I see you by my side, as we climbed lifes rugged hill in search of the baubles which attract the world — Good bye my dear friend — I have but few — very few left — I have nearly survived them all — but like Sybil leaves they become more precious as they diminish in number — Therefore it is, that when I write to you I tell you even of trifles that concern me — but among my deepest concerns is the state of your health — How is it with you? My whole family join me in kindest remembrances & best wishes for the best health that now you have any reason to expect — truly your friend J O HarrisonLouisville Ky. Sept. 30th 1882. Hon. Joseph Holt: My Dear Friend, Your welcome letter just at hand. I can be at your command on any Sabbath in Oct. except the fifth Sunday which will be the 29th day of the month and I could serve you in the dedication of that sacred Memorial Edifice on the 1st Sunday of November — the 5th day. After that day any official duties will call me into Georgia and Florida. I hope the house will be ready within that time; for it will give me a pleasure to render any services that may aid you in a design so honorable to your heart and so sacred in its intentions, as to honor your worthy Mother whose heart and life were given to the God that loved, honored, blest and [*251*]Saved her, and may the gratitude of the Mother be finally expressed to her glorified Son in Heaven! You will please inform me as soon as practible whether I can serve you in that space of time. Very truly and affectionately yours, H. H. Kavanaugh [*252*]Lexington Oct 9 1882 My dear Sir In yours recd the day before yesterday, you inquire, what I know of the widow & children & your old friend Chilton — Of late years I know but little about them but I am very sure, that he left but a very small estate if in fact he left any surplus after paying his debts &c &c His family after his death had two resources 1st Mrs Horton, Mother of his widow & 2d her uncle Mr Wm Horton a prudent & well-to-do planter then living, unmarried, near Raymond Miss Mrs Horton's estate was small--say 10 to 15 thousand dollars, to be divided between four children all daughters--Wm Horton's estate under ordinary circumstances would I guess have amounted to $40 to 50,000--to be divided among the same four--but as it was settled up during the confusion of the war, the probability is that it yielded not more than about 1/2 its actual value--I understood that [*253*]My brother who had married one of the four daughters surrendered to Mrs Chilton his wife's portion in both estates. Of this however I do not speak with certainty. Be all this as it may, I feel quite sure that Mrs C. has had a pretty hard time, not only because her means were scattered, but that in the confusion of the times, it was difficult to make them productive especially by one who like her had never learned to economize or to manage business affairs. Mr C. left at least [six] seven living children– 3 daughters and [three] 4 sons — The eldest daughter soon after the war married a Mr Devereux Clerk in one of the N. Orleans Banks. I never knew him,- her connections were I believe satisfied with the match. She died some two or three years after her marriage leaving one child- yet living as I believe. - The 2d daughter married a mercantile Clerk. I never knew him & have forgotten his name- but I expect they have been doing reasonably well in as much as they have been keeping House some years & she, Mrs Chilton, as I have understood, is residing with them. The 3d daughter some time last Spring married her cousin, a son of Gen'l Robert Chilton, brother of John M. I know nothing else of the husband except that the marriage was very distasteful to the Mother of the Groom & not very agreeable to the Mother of the Bride. The two are residing in Texas but where & in what pursuit I do not know Their eldest son married soon after the War & was planting on a portion of the premises which his Uncle John Norton had owned & [in his own power &] as I understand, without the slightest provocation was shot & killed in his own house by a drunken negro. Their 2d son John is as I understand practicing law in or near Jackson Miss & as I understand is doing well. I do not know what has become of the other two. They were poorly educated & if alive I fear they are not doing well. I am sorry that I can not give all the details with more exactness. I have not seen Mrs. C. or any of the children since the War & have had no communication with any of them & what I learned of any of themhas been casually & indirectly learned through others. Your letter interested me greatly not only because it gave me so many particulars in regard to yourself but because it made suggestions as to my own case that have impressed me most favorably. I would buy the electricity of the modern apparatus were here & in hands of a Physician who knew how to use it. My chief reliance is & for years has been, upon milk- good corn bread & oatmeal. This is my food at every meal- scarcely anything else- My daily medicine is about 1/3 of a fresh lemon without sugar immediately after my breakfast & occasionally about a desert spoon full of old Bourbon. You would be surprised were you to know as well as I do, the benefit I have rec'd from both & especially from the Lemon. Scarcely day has passed for 10 years [that] without resort to the Lemon. It was not prescribed by any one- on the contrary, [a] free use of alkalines was prescribed as absolutely necessary- but finding that I was daily growing worse, I determined on the opposite & having felt great relief from the very first use of the Lemon, I ever since have continued the use of it. - You would be surprised also were you to know how powerfully, when feeling uncomfortable, I am relieved by a very small quantity of pure old Bourbon. I take it without sugar or water & at once a sort of electric shock pervades my system & wakens up the torpid system. That is the only effect I wish it to produce & [as there] having accustomed myself to very small quantity at a time; the effect is always the same. Indeed, is not the Bourbon as I take it better for me than electricity? 1sr because there is some good in alcohall, none in electricity 2d Electricity is so evanescent - so difficult, to retain, that its effect is rather mechanical than vital- were I a young & stout man & were suddenly shocked to insensibility, a counter shock by electricity would probably be better than anything else- but worn out as I am, is not that the best tonic for me that contributes even in small degree to feed me. I have exhausted my sheet & no doubt your own patience & must close with a "God bless you" in which prayer my whole family, each better than myself, most sincerely wish- Truly your friend J O Harrison Danville Ky Oct 16th 1882 Hon J Holt Washington City D.C Dear Sir Yours [of the] of the 15th Inst inclosing your note of 7th Sept sent to me at La Crescent Missouri just recd and in reply - have to Say I left La Crescent in Feby 1870 and before leaving I wrote you advising you to have D L Buel at Caledonia (the county Seat) to attend to paying taxes on your lots &c - up to that time I paid them out your int in Ferry [*254*]receipts. In 1865 by a large majority of the stock it was decided to sell the Ferry - Boat & franchises & pay off the creditors who had also used the money to build the boat & the road across the bottom to the bench land nearly a mile in length. The debt or advances with Int. amounted to near $23,000.000 it was agreed the creditors should bid the amount & take the Boat & franchises which They did. You had paid on Boat & road $250.00 with Int. added I think it amounted to near $400.00 -- At the same meeting in 1865 relative value as near as judgement of the committee equity & fix were placed on the lots Blocks - - - & ea numbered with price fixed on Each and all divided by drawing. The unplated territory was not divided & is now held by me as Master Containing I think between two and three hundred acres - In May 18[8]76 the parties in interest in the Ferry ordered it Sold & appointed B Magoffin & N Bryant & St John Boyle Prentiss to make the Sale and the Spring following it was Sold for $3,250.00 by Magoffin & Bryant - J. C. Day of Minnesota & myself being the purchasers and the Spring following after the purchase we lost the Boat by firehad another built and are now running it - you are entitled to prorata of rcepts up to last sale less taxes paid by me on your lots to time of my leaving Minn & you are entitled to your prorata of last Sale of Boat - - - I havnt The Books before but whatever your prorata is for recepts from 1st sale to the Creditors up to June 1st 1872 less Taxes as before stated are in my hands – & your prorata in last Sale is in Magoffins hands also recepts from 1st June 72 to last Sale— from what you write your lots doubtless have been sold for Taxes - butCan I think be recovered as the tax laws of Minn are as have been defective You had 5 lots and 1 block - I once sent you No's of lots and Block can send them again if you wish. You will excuse the length of my letter- have endeavoured to give as full information as practicable from recollection the books I haven't before me but believe I am substantially correct Any information I can give you will be given with pleasure any recpts of yours that may be in my hands. Your frd Thos McRoberts [*255*]No 2 East Market Street Louisville Ky. Oct 20th 1882 Dear Judge Holt I regret that I had to leave Washington without again seeing you. I found your card at my rooms and was reminded of your thoughtful kindness. I shall send the consul General's bond before I sail. Something may come of it. I failed to get a photograph of Mr Blaine for my friend {*256*}2 Mr Bruce. I put it off until too late. Perhaps you will get one of the ordinary cabinet size and ask Mr Blaine to write on the back of it To Walter Bruce Esq. with the compliments of J. G. Blaine etc. I saw Dr Bell this morning. He is in splendid health and spirits. was glad to hear from you. Mary Anderson's business in Chicago is enormous. I shall stay here with my children until 3 I leave for San Francisco. The vessel sails from this port on the 18th of November Will send you a picture of the Maori King. I forgot to mention to you that "His Majesty", treated me with distinguished consideration and rubbed noses with me somewhat against my own inclining but I was told it was a great honor. It is the ancient Maori method of salutation and the process of rubbing noses is sometimes kept up for two or three minutes at a time. The picture of the King4 King is the best ever taken. He sat for it during his visit to Auckland It was his first visit to Auckland The only time he ever left the King country for a look at the white man's abode. He told me that his great objection to the whites was that "they took so much trouble to live" He could not understand why they built their houses two and three stories high. With the hope of soon5 hearing from you and that you will pardon me for troubling you about Mr Blaines picture for my friend Mr Bruce & am as ever yours G. W Griffin {*256-a*}244 S. 3rd St. Philadelphia Oct. 28. 1882 Judge Joseph Holt. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir; Yours of 16th inst. was forwarded to me a few days since by my son — but as the bicentennial was in full blast I delayed until to-day answering it. Can only say I never heard of or received anything in settlement from Mr. Bardon — the information I gave you about the am't paid came thro' the man who cut the timber who told my son he had given Mr. B. (I think) $150.00 — you can find exactly by referring to my letter. Mr. Sam'l W. Magoffin was in Superior during the Summer, and much to my surprise as I had declined acting as his Agent any longer — [*257*] [*257*]called on me. Under the in circumstances I did not think it good taste to mention business matters and he probably felt the same way. I think you have been treated rather shabbily, but I do not believe Gov. W is in any way to blame. I hope you will at least make Mr. S. W. pay your proportion. I thank you for your kindly interest in me, but no new trouble has befallen me. I have many sad moments naturally, and probably just happened to write to you at such a time. I left Superior on the 12th of August, and are visiting in Phila, my native place which I had not seen before for twenty six years. Find many friends but those that are left very glad to see me. If I can serve you any further in this matter please believe that I shall be glad to do so. Yours truly Sarah B. Anderson1782 1882 UNITED WE STAND DIVIDED WE FALL Mr...... You are respectfully invited to attend the CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION Commemorative of the ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY of the FIRST SETTLEMENT OF BRECKENRIDGE COUNTY, KENTUCKY, TO BE HELD ON THE SITE OF HARDIN'S OLD FORT, NEAR THE TOWN OF HARDINSBURG, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 1882, Respectfully, ALF, ALLEN, Prest. Breckenridge Centennial Society, JAS. E. STONE, Jr., Secretary. [*259*]Law Office of S. M. MAGOFFIN, 104 E. THIRD STREET. St. Paul, Minn., Nov. 4th 1882. Judge Joseph Holt, Washington, D. C. My dear Sir. Your favor of the 1st inst. has just been received. The fact that you speak in such strong terms regarding the timber cutting on our joint tract of land in Douglas Co. Wis., can be excused on the ground that you have been wholly misinformed in reference to the matter and have relied on statements for which there is no foundation. In the first place Mr. Bardon wrote to me saying my father had told him some time before to sell the timber on certain lands up there. I knew little or nothing about the land (of which there are several tracts) and so told him to do as he had been instructed, never dreaming any timber was to be sold in which another party owned half interest, of which fact I knew nothing until the work was stopped by your order. I was very sorry the mistake had been made, but couldn't blame Bardon, because he thought he was selling my timber. I then began to put forth every effort to get pay for the damage and have your part turned over to you an arrangement to which you kindly consented. Mr. Bardon tried hard to get a settlement out of the purchaser, one Winslow, but without [*260*]success and after waiting several months on the man's premises, I left my business and went to Superior in person, found Winslow and had him drive out to the land with me and look over all that had been done. he had removed the logs that had been cut, but there were according to his estimate twelve or fifteen hundred ties still on the ground. I couldn't get any money out of the fellow, but finally got him to sign an order for $50 on a party whom he had agreed to furnish piles, the money to be paid as soon as the piles were delivered. The river was blocked up with logs and has remained so and I suppose this is the cause of a failure to deliver the piles. At any rate no part of the order had been paid at last accounts. Winslow promised faithfully to make return to Bardon in a few days of all the timber out or removed and to give ample security for the payment therefor. The arrangement was by no means satisfactory to me, but I could do no better. I found Winslow to be little known about there, except that he usually met his engagements, and tho' shiftless, was entirely honest. I am satisfied he meant to pay for the timber, but his loose business habits make him worthless. He has left Superior, I am informed, and I have placed the matter in the hands of an attorney, M. E. C. Johnson of Superior; but by reason of Mr. Bardon's absence in Ky he has been unable to get the requisite data for a suit.Law Office of S. M. MAGOFFIN, 104 E. THIRD STREET. St. Paul, Minn., . . . . . . . . . 188. . . . I told him to look the matter up and I would write and ask permission to use your name in an attachment suit to which you would be a necessary party, and I was just on the eve of writing when your letter came estimating the propriety of pursuing such a course. I hope [age?] we shall be able to attach the ties on the ground, have them sold, and be paid for all the timber taken, which was worth, according to the best information I could get, about a hundred or a hundred & fifty dollars. I suppose this is only a rough guess but I was convinced while on the land, that it would hardly pay to hire loggers at three or four dollars a day to make measurements of what they should only assume was taken by Winslow, especially when in all probability they would be the latter's friends. I could only trust to Winslow's honesty and reserve the right to have the work done over again in case his return savored of unfairness. I am surprised at your agent's statement that $100 was "paid" for the privilege of cutting the timber. As she seems to be the only party that can bear witness to a statement involving a criminal charge, I trust she will perform the duty which our good laws enjoin and aid me in hunting [*261*]down the guilty party — the person who received the alleged funds and failed to account therefor. And I shall expect as a matter of justice to all parties concerned, that if you procure from her and furnish to me definite information as to the party accused, or suspected. When you understand that Mrs. Anderson and Bardon are not on very good terms, you will, I am sure, make some allowance for the former's charges. I don't know the cause of the spite but it evidently exists from the bitterness with which she opposes him. He is not my agent and never has been, except in the matter of this bothersome timber sale. I hope my explanation is satisfactory. If not I will gladly respond to any inquiry you may make. On the other hand I respectfully ask that you furnish me more explicit information in regard to the statement of the payment of that $100. I have not sold any of my lands in the vicinity of Superior and have too much real estate of the unproductive kind to make you an offer for your interest. On my visit to our land near Superior, I found a good deal of the timber had been taken along the Nemadji River but was unable to get any clew to the thieves. The nearest neighbor two miles away promised to watch it in future, but I'm afraid he is too far off to be vigilant. Very resp. S. M. Magoffin.633 First Street Louisville Ky. Nov 4th 1882 Dear Judge Holt. Please to accept my best thanks for your interesting letter. The photograph of Mr Blaine is an admirable one. I very much thank you for it. I wrote to Mr Blaine requesting his autograph for my friend Mr Bruce. I disliked risking the picture. If I get the autograph it can be pasted on the back of it. I have just returned from Cincinnati where I went to place my daughter at the Wesleyan Female College. Will leave here [*262*]Tuesday for San Francisco. The steamer sails on the 18th Will write you upon my arrival at Auckland. I wish I could deserve all the pleasant things you say about me. As ever yours G. W. Griffin.232 S. 3rd St. Philadelphia Nov. 6, 1882 Judge Joseph Holt Washington D. C. Dear Sir; Yours of a late date was forwarded to me from Superior. Your case is a very hard one, but I do not see how to remedy it. The man Winslow who cut the timber has been around Superior for over a year. He told my son one day on the street, that he had paid James Bardon $150.00 but I am informed that he is a drinking worthless sort of a fellow and not to be relied on — so whether he really did pay or not is impossible for me to say. I am afraid you would not make much by trying to sell — as people dont care to purchase undivided interest If Mr. Magoffin were to unite with you in making a sale you might [*263*]possibly get from $3. to $5 an acre for it. I am very sorry about the matter and wish it were in my power to assist, and if you desire will try to sell for you. Will probably return home soon after New Year — and then will do all in my power for you. If you desire me to try to sell please let me know at above address — I may possibly find a purchaser here. Yours very truly Sarah B. Anderson [*264*]#831 — 14th St. Nov. 6, 1882 Hon. Jos. H. Holt, My dear Sir: Enclosed please find a correct bill. In rendering the first bill I had no intention of overcharging or being exorbitant but was actuated only by a desire to be liberally remunerated. Had I consulted Dr. Busey before sending the bill I would undoubtedly, have rendered a different account. Hoping this may prove satisfactory I am Very truly &c Samuel S. Adams [*265*]Harrisville Ky Nov 7th Mr Holt Dear sir- I had the pleasure of being present at the dedication of the new church It was quite a pleasant and successful serrvice. The day was propitious and the beautiful little church was filled to its utmost capacity. The sermon by Bishop Kavanaugh was very interesting and appropriate his text being "The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance" The Bishop and all who were present were delighted with the church, not only as to its appearance but also its adaptedness {*266*} to the purposes of its construction. So very pleasant for the audience and so easy for the speaker. It was my part of the service to present the [church] house to the Bishop for dedication and although my voice was weak yet I have not spoken in a church for many a day with so much ease to myself. Bishop Kavanaugh said the acoustic properties were perfect. We had the pleasure of being entertained at the residence of your nephew. We would all have been delighted to have had you present on the occasion. Please excuse this note but I felt like I wanted to write you a word- Yours sincerely S. C. AllenJ. W. KINCHELOE. MORRIS ESKRIDGE. Office of KINCHELOE & ESKRIDGE. ATTORNEYS AT LAW, Hardinsburg, Ky. Nov 21, 1882 Dear Sir — I take pleasure in introducing to you my friend George. W. Jolly Esq — a practising attorney at the Owensboro bar — He is a native of our County & a descendant of our early settlers on both the paternal & maternal side — It is probable that you know his stock After qualifying himself for the practice, he, [mor] acting upon a maxim that I have heard attributed to yr grand father Stephens "that if you wish to make money - you must deal with those who have it" moved to Owensboro - when I understand he has been & is very successful - you will find him a clever man. and a good type of a Kentucky gentleman - Except a brief lapse in the "Greely struggle", he has been a very active - firm, Union man - and has succinctly born the reproach of submissionist - abolitionist - Lincoln writings and radical yrs &c Jesse. W. Kincheloe [*267*]Hon. Jo. Holt By Geo. W. Jolly Esq. Washington City Dis. of Columbia Judge KincheloeNo 2119 H. St. N. W. Washington D. C. November 22" 1882 Hon. J. Holt Dr Sir: Your kind enquiry reached me this morning and I hasten to reply. I have just returned from a visit to your native state, which retains all its physical beauties, except the beautiful forests, which have yielded to the spirit of utility, which is very fast sweeping away many of the moral traits of the people. The revolution will bring a more powerful community, but will be the tomb if the rich individuality [*268*]that every where marked the inhabitants of that commonwealth. It promises a much earlier resurection from slavery than any of the states south of it. I have sufficiently indicated at the commencement my residence. The young gentlemen, who were with me will esteem it a pleasure, as well as myself to meet you. Yours respectfully Jos. S. HowlerDanville Ky 1st Dec 1882 Hon J. Holt Washington City DC Dear Sir I read both of your letters and should and would have answered them sooner but for Gov Magoffins absence from home. I wanted to see him before writing believing your interest required I should see him but as he is still absent from home & cant ascertain when he will return thought it best to wait no longer on him- so if you [*269*]will forward me your certificate of stock so as to enable me to make the proper endorsement on it of the partial division of the property I will so endorse it and return it to you. will then execute or acknowledge the Deed to you for the lots drawn for you- have it recorded & try to have them released from the Tax incumbrance and I believe I can do it. I have it in my power to save to you your prorata of last sale of Ferry boat & franchises and will do it Your prorata of the sale I think is about $55.00 so if I can get the Tax claims set aside your interest in the property will be unencumbered as I have kept the tax as paid on the undivided property, with funds in my hands belonging to the Trusteeship. I am obliged for your offer of 1/2 to take the matter in hand. I will do all I can to recover your lots & as before stated I think I will recover them but as to accepting your proposition I certainly will not as it is my desire & intention for you to have all less what expense may accrue inrecovering them- and if I find the expense bids fair to exceede the value of the lots of course I will act as you would by letting them alone. be assured you shall have every dollar of dividend declared & prorated of last sale less taxes paid to time of leaving Minnesota dont fail to mail me your Certificate of Stock- Deeds were filled up to be acknowledged so soon as certificates of stock were properly endorsed Your frd W. C. McRobertsJESSE W. KINCHELOE. MORRIS ESKRIDGE. Office of KINCHELOE & ESKRIDGE, ATTORNEYS AT LAW, Hardinsburg, Ky. Dec. 2 1882 Dear Sir. I will send to day by express $100 collected of Jenings estate - I send the whole collection. not deducting commission as I could not conveniently make the change. Yrs &c Jesse W. Kincheloe [*270*]Mechanicsburg, Yazoo Co. Miss. Dec. 3 /82 [*[1882]*] Dear Cousin Joe, I write to inform you that my brother's trial came off last week, and that he was acquitted. The jury was composed of some of the best men of Jackson. There were ten white men and two negroes on it. I suppose the most of them were republicans, as the republicans predominate in Jackson. Papa and I attended the trial. I am so {*271*}much relieved since it is all over with. I feel as if some heavy burden has been lifted from me. I knew he was innocent, but the innocent are often condemned. My brother is very anxious to secure again a position on some road as Postal Clerk, and asked me to write you and solicit your influence in his behalf in securing a position. He thinks if you will speak to Mr Wanamaker for him that he will have no trouble in getting another appointment. He will write to you soon himself. I shall be as grateful to you if you will assist him in getting an other appointment. Please do all you can for him. I send you part of a paper which has a notice of his trial in it. It was dispatched to the Times democrat the evening the trial was closed. I also send you a paper in which you will find a nice compliment paid me. I am a candidate for State Librarian and the papers are very profuse in their compliments. I have received quite a number of encouraging letters from the representatives and senators- hope I {*271 1/2*}shall be successful - With best wishes, I am Your affectionate Cousin, Alma Dorsey.Washington, Dec. 6, '82 My dear Sir: I have written, or rather compiled an article about President Buchanan & his administration in its last days, which I should like to read to you, if you would allow me and have the patience to listen to it I could probably call at any hour to suit your convenience, although we should be gratified would you call at our house as of old. [*272*]when I would be at home any hour you might be good enough to name. Very truly yours, Horatio King Hon Joseph Holt, Washington.Greenwich Dec. 11th My dear friend: I have had the pleasure of reading your letters to Mr. Johnson and Barclay, and I know that as soon as I do my duty and write to you myself, I also shall be the recipient of one of your good letters. You see I have already acknowledged that I have not done my duty. Let [*273*]This be a sufficient apology for my shameful remisness. I will leave out the hackneyed forms of excuses and regrets, for indeed I have not the heart to use them with you. Your example alone ought to have prompted me to do better. You are such a prompt, faithful correspondant. Your last letter was received shortly after we came to Greenwich to live. I don't understand how I can have left it so long unanswered. My determination was so strong to write you frequently from here, to describe our pretty scenery and to urge you to visit us. Had I written, it would surely have been but a repetition of the first letter-another and another effort to persuade you to visit us. I was very anxious to have you come last summer but saw that my persuasion must prove fruitless. Next summer you must come. If you do not I shall quarrel with you.Dec 18th. Just a week ago I commenced my letter, and laid it aside to answer a telegram from New York, announcing the arrival of my brother's wife and asking me to meet her there. Her sister Mrs. Thompson of Louisville was with her. I have had a busy time with them sight seeing, and had a short visit from them which was most enjoyable. We drove to a neighboring hill overlooking the sound, thenreturned to Putnam's hill whence we could see not only the sound but the village with its pretty ivy-grown churches and tasteful villas and [but] a wide expanse of country exceptionally picturesque and beautiful. Pretty yachts and skiffs were riding on the water and the little islands were still almost green. The day was mild and lovely and our [little] party were not wanting in appreciation [*274*]of the scene. I have often wished for you on such occasions, and Mr. Johnson Millie and Barclay have exclaimed over and over again, "how much Judge Holt would enjoy all this." You must certainly come to see us next summer. Now that we are quite settled in our home with good servants and a nice guest chamber, we long to have with us our friends. But this guest room is ready for you at any time. Why not come this winter. I find it no colder here than in New York. If you will come it will break the monotony of your winter and be to us a much coveted privilege. I must not forget to speak of our wide verandah extending nearly all round the house and affording pleasant views. Our house is not very fine or handsome since we can't afford much style, and thatsort of thing; still we are quite contented, and glad we came here. Barclay goes in to his office every morning early, where he is studying law. Poor boy, he has before him a tedious time of working and waiting But he is hopeful, ambitious energetic and industrious, and will earn something I trust, after awhile. I am so sorry you allow yourself to be troubled by the "malicious pratings" of your persecutor. Pray do not flatter that man by bestowing a thought upon him or his idiotic slanders. A man at once disloyal and dishonest, weak, vindictive and jealous of the truly great, a man looked upon with contempt by the nation, he should be treated by you with that silent contempt which will perhaps soonest convince him of his own littleness and meanness. Write me soon how you are this winter, and when we may expect that visit which we musthave sooner or later and believe me your affectionate friend S. B. JohnsonLexington, Decr 12. 1882 Hon J Holt My dear Sir Yours of 8th Inst, reached me in due time & having nothing to do I at once looked for the Certificate to which you referd. I had no difficulty in finding it annexed as it was to [to] & as part of your Petition. I mention the fact, that I had nothing to do, that you may see that it was perfectly convenient to me to attend to this matter. Indeed, had the matter given me any, even the greatest Trouble, it would have been a pleasure to me to have served you in it - as under like circumstances or under any circumstances it would be a pleasure to you to serve me. In this connection I may say merely as matter of personal history, that I withdrew from the practice of Law about two years ago & since then I have been but seldom in The Court House. This for instance is the 4th week of this Court & my appearance before it this morning was my first & only appearance during the year, when The 1st order made was on my motion, that authorises you [*275*]or your agent to withdraw that Certificate. I did not then withdraw it because as you in your letter did not request me to forward it to you, I inferd that probably [that] you might intend give some other direction in regard to it. Be all this as it may, I preferd to await your instructions on the subject. Therefore write again. Aware [as you] as you are of my regular habits through a long series of years you can readily imagine how much I long for occupation of mind. The fact however is & for several years has been, that I have been & am too infirm of body to labor in my profession & therefore I abandoned all such responsibility & care &c and now I occupy my mind as well as I can with my private affairs & the perusal of such books as are at my command. The feeling that I have out-lived my capacity to labor & of course, my capacity to be of service to others is a daily & harassing pressure on me. Though my family surround & sustain me by their presence affection & for the time enable me to throw off this daily pressure, yet when alone, the consciousness that I have out-lived my capacity to benefit them, so dear to me, increases the pressure they daily struggle to make me forget. Such is my experience of life when all has taken away [its] [or] my strength. My health however is about as good [as good] as when I last wrote you & this I ascribe to the simplicity of my diet, consisting chiefly of oat meal & milk. My daughter [daghty] Susan of whose illness I informed you some [time] months ago is still confined to her room, though for the week past she is seems to be rapidly convalesing. Though you say that you are not entirely relieved, yet I am glad that you have so improved as to encourage the belief that under your treatment, your health will be as good as before the attack. At my time of life & years, we accomplish a great deal if able to help ourselves & are free of physical suffering That is my condition now [now] & I pray, that you may soon be at least in the enjoyment of the same blessings. Indeed when I see that your handwriting is as good as ever & that your recollection is as exact as in the prime of life, I can not & do not feel half the uneasiness about you now as I felt when I first heard of your attack. When comparing your statement of facts with the facts stated on the Petition it brought to my mind the exactness & precision which characteris'd you more than 40 yearsago. There is such mutual action & reaction of mind & body that the vitality of the one is in great measure indicative of the vitality of the other. And judging you by that Index I see no reason for apprehension except that you may suffer still before being entirely relieved. You must learn to bear up, at least as well as I do. You no [doubt] doubt [rember] remember, that I was always more restless & impatient than yourself & my dear old wife will insist, that I have changed but little in that respect. Indeed how could I subdue that element of my nature when I have nothing to do & often am perplexed by not knowing [what] how to give my mind some agreeable occupation? I doubt [in further fact] however whether in fact I bear up as well as you do, [for though] though I am surrounded by a domestic sympathy you have not, and without which, my life would be but a troubled dream. My hand writing though never a pattern for others to follow, is as you see much below its ancient standard. I however supplied myself with a fresh pen & have done my best to show you how well I could write--yet you will hardly be able to read [it] what I have written. All join me in best wishes for your restoration & for your happiness here & herafter & believe me as ever your old friend J O HarrisonLaw Office of S. M. MAGOFFIN, 104 E. THIRD STREET. St. Paul, Minn., Dec. 13th 1882. Judge Joseph Holt. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: In my late letter to you I said I had instructed my attorney at Superior to bring suit against Winslow. After looking the matter up he advised me not to sue as a suit was unnecessary, because the contract with Winslow was to the effect that title to the timber was not to pass till it was paid for; and under this state of case he thought we might sell the ties on the ground and apply the proceeds in liquidation of the debt. I should rather have sued but as Winslow cannot be found, I told Bardon and Johnson to go on and sell and confer with your agent about the matter. Winslow was to pay 3¢ a piece for ties and 1 1/2¢ per foot for piles, for all stumpage taken, the quantity to be ascertained by measurement, and I have written my attorney an urgent letter asking him to sell the ties if possible and have the measurements taken to ascertain the amount due us and apply the proceeds in payment thereof. Please instruct your agent what you want done in the premises and to aid in making a sale, if you approve of the course proposed; if not, confer with me at once and oblige. Yours &c, S. M. Magoffin. [*276*]Albany Georgia, Dec 20th 1882 Hon. Joseph Holt My Very Dear Friend Excuse me for my long delay in answering your very kind letter. Official duties have occupied me. I am gratified that my humble services in the dedication of your beautiful "Memorial Church" erected by the hands of a beloved son in filial affection to a worthy and fond mother, were acceptable to your relations and friends generally. The notice that it was my pleasure to take of you, was an utterance of my personal convictions in regard to you, and these convictions were based upon my personal knowledge of you and the history of your distinguished success as a lawyer, and especially as a commonwealth attorney and the criminals advocate. Your success has stood as a monument to your powers. That you should succeed therefore in any one case was no exception to your common history, but a proof of your great fidelity to the duties devolving on you. I thought it proper that on that occasion I should thus speak of you. [*277*]I suppose that the greatest odium you have suffered in your life, has been based upon the fate of Mrs. Surratt. The minutia of which case I never knew, but after the remarks I took occasion to make of you it was stated to me that "you never made a speech against that unfortunate woman--that you simply took the testimony in the case--refused to take the testimony of her daughter, owing to the delicacy involved--that you went to see the President in regard to the case and that he did not grant you an interview with him upon the subject." I would like to know from you if these statements are true. If so, you are powerfully vindicated. I thank you for the more than a reward for services on the occasion, handed me by your nephew the day after the dedication. I hold my last conference, commencing Jan. 3rd at Jacksonville Florida, and will remain some two or more months in Florida. I should be pleased, if it suit you to receive a letter from you at Jacksonville Fla. It can reach me before my conference ends, and if not, will be forwarded to me. Wife joins me in best regards to you. Truly and affectionately yours H. H. Kavanaugh (over) P.S. your your nephew and niece gave me the nicest and most agreeable entertainment during my stay with them, and gave me the kindest invitation to visit them with my wife next Summer, to which invitation I am glad to have your concurrence. It is our present intention to accept the invitation, and think on our part it will be much enjoyed, And this enjoyment would be much enhanced should we have the pleasure of meeting you there. Truly yours, H. H. K.Lexington Decr 23d 1882 My dear Sir On receiving yours of 19th I withdrew from the papers of the old suit of Holt vs Magoffin, the original stock certificate issued to you & filed with & as part of your Petition & herewith forward it to you I hope it will reach you safely--when you receive it please inform me of the fact. Though the Court in its final judgt in the case may have been technically right yet I feel pretty sure that Magoffin is presenting & relying on the technal defence was essentially wrong. When for instance did the three years expire? If the view of the Court be right you were bound then to demand a recision of the sale. It would [th a] seem from the Depts answer & from the Judgt of the Court, that a demand before or after the end of the three years would not authore a specific [*278*]execution of the contract by the court. The demand to be of value to you should, in the opinion of McGoffin & of the Court, have been made at the end of the three years & at no other time. You should be ready, with [an] an accurate time-keeper in your hand, & immediately on the expiration of the term agreed on, have demanded a fulfillment of the contract. No time is allowed for consideration or for information in regard to the value of the property--you surely were entitled to some time for the ascertainment of facts necessary to a determination by yourself of the value of the property at the end of the three years--and if entitled to any time for any such purpose, you were surely entitled to a reasonable time & especially when as in this case, there was no depreciation of value in the interval. He does not even aver, that there was any such deprecation & of course your brief delay occasioned no loss to him. The great wrong however was in his taking advantage of a mere technical right to your prejudice, an innocent purchaser. He seems to have set the trap with a view of catching the bird! When I wrote you last we were all much encouraged by the apparent improvement in the health of my daughter--but for a week, the old symptoms have returned & of course we are greatly concerned. Though our Christmas will necessarily be a gloomy one yet all we can do is to bow our heads & to submit to any additional burden that Providence may put upon us All of us join in expressing our gratification for your kind wishes & in the earnest hope that your Christmas may be a much more pleasant one than ours promises to be. We shall think of you, when we all, young & old, shall greet each other when we meet, as we hope to meet, at the Christmas breakfast & Christmas Dinner. With sincerest wishes for your speedy recovery & for happiness here & hereafter, believe me as ever your old friend J O HarrisonYou must not infer, that I consider my daughter is in immediate danger--I apprehend however a long continuance of illness & sufferingBloomfield 25th Dec 1882 Hon J Holt Washington D C Dear Cousin I have concluded to apply to you, for an accommodation, which if from any reason you decline to grant, I assure you that I will not reflect upon you or hold you in any less esteem, for I [am] have no claims upon you. to put you to any inconvenience. I have in possession one hundred & forty three acres of land a part of the home place for which I paid $50 per acre cash in 1859 -- & which will certainly bring that sum at any sort of sale & which I think can be [*279*]sold for $10 or 15 more per acre. I have also 75 acres undivided reversion in the Dower tract which is worth still more, having more improvements upon it. This land is worth at least $12,000 no such land having been sold for less money for a long time in this neighborhood. This land is mortgaged for a sum somewhere between $5 & 6000 I wish to raise the mortgage for two reasons. 1st to reduce the interest from 8% to 6 & 2nd because the mortgagee wishes his money which I am not able to pay. If it suited you as a buisiness transaction to take a mortgage on the land and let me have $6000 at 6% You would do me a favor that will be appreciated, and which I dont think I can ever be able to return by as great a one to you. but the [M] debt will be secure & the interest paid & the principal in its time. I would sell the land and pay off, but dont want to do so in my mothers time. But for her I would never have bought it. I have my life insured for $4,000 & if I should happen to die, that amt would enable my family to pay off the debt & keep the land The title is indisputably in me having descended from my Grandfather & the period of possession is 92 years There is no lien or incumbrance except the mortgage mentioned which I hope to get the money to pay off I believe I can pay youthe interest regularly once a year. My mothers health is good for one so old as she is. Hoping that you are in good health I am yours truly - Eli H StoneBalto. Dec. 26th 1882 Gen. Joseph Holt, U.S.A. Dear Sir: I am making a collection of Autographs of distinguished Officers of the United States Army, to place in my Album as Souvenirs and I would like very much to add yours also to the number I have already obtained, If you have no objection, will you please have the kindness to write your name on the enclosed slip of paper and return to me in the addressed envelope, also enclosed & If so, I will esteem it a favor and be greatly obliged thereby. Hoping you will pardon me for humbling you thus, and kindly grant my request, with sentiments of personal esteem I am Yours Respectfully, Mr. F. Edwards, No. 334 E. Balto. St. Baltimore, Md [*280*] Dec 29 The Hon judge Holt Dear Sir Your letter was Received and I thank you from my heart for your kind -- but consideration of its contents [the] the offering was a pure and holy one one that will bring upon the alter of our purest affection, & when our eyes are closeing up on the things of time then shall come upon our vision all the blessed deeds that we have done for our lord and savior Jesus Christ the Soul which you have been so literal in your contributions [*281*][*Dec 29"*] to you in my letter with many kind wishes I remain your friend E H Slaughter Hon Joseph Holt My Dear Sir Long years of separation has not diminised the kindly sentiments of friendship, which had their origin in our earlier & better years, but have rather increased in intensity as the years roll on, which will soon land us on the mystical shore May God grant you a long & happy & green old age full of hope As I am sure it will be full of honor and of fame Truly your friend H Slaughter [*281*]son's may be the means of bringing sinnors to the house of god Your friends would be very happy indeed to see you hear again your old frnd Mrs Wintersmith is still Livings; this wintor she is quite feeble your friend Mrs Hill as we all call her Aunt Beck is in fine health if you could see her with velvit hat and plume you would think her 50 yrs yet she is in her 73 year old Dr Young is very feeble he fell from his horse has been confind to his Room all winter he has joined the Catholic church made his peace with our blessed Lord Dr has promised me to write you a poscript [*281-a*]Rochester Dec. 30th 1882 Hon. Joseph Holt Dear Sir. As I am a young lad and getting a collection of autographs I take the liberty to ask you if you will please favor me with an autograph of Ex. President Buchanan if you have any also yours. If you haven't any I wish you would inform me. Very Truly Maurice D Strauss [282]1882 My dear General, It occurred to me the moment after you had gone, this morning, how much pleasure I might have in calling with you at my nephew's. If you will name a [*283*]time when it would Suit you to make the visit it will gratify me, exceedingly, to call for you. Faithfully Yours E. B. Anderson Tuesday Ebbitt House My dear brother We will go with pleasure. I look for the Gala in the afternoon boat, you know when that comes in, so that I get home before he gets here I shall be satisfied. If we go before two o'clock to see his Douglass would it not be [*284*]better. But you can change as you like. I will be dressed at one overlock at any rate. Yours affect N. C. YuleeOFFICE OF Rock Island Argus, DAILY AND WEEKLY. J. W. POTTER, EDITOR AND PUBLISHER. Rock Island, Ill. Jan. 2 1883 My Dear Sir: When were you invited into Lincoln's cabinet and what position did you fill? Pardon the abruptness of my query but I prefer to learn directly from yourself and thus be historically accurate. Very Truly Yours, Darwin C. Pavey, City Ed's Argus, Hon. Joseph Holt, } Washington, D.C. } [*285*]Holt Jan 3 1883 My dear Cousin, Happy New Year: I must thank you for the beautiful "Christmas Card" you were so kind to send me. It is lovely. "Nearer my God to Thee" is a favorite hymn of mine. I appreciate your kind remembrance of me very much indeed. We had a pleasant, but quiet Christmas in our little neighborhood. My son Minor Stephens was home from College during the [*286*]holy days. he enjoyed his short stay with us very much. Amanda Banks was married at "our church" during Christmas by an Episcopal Minister, from Owensboro who admired "our new Church," extravagantly -- Norma Stephens received a letter from Mary Holt a few days since, said her Ma was very well, and delighted with Floryda I hope the returning spring will bring her home, with her health entirly restored, for I so miss Vonda bright cheery face so much. We have Sunday school evy Sunday morning at 10'oclock. We miss Vonda very much at the Sabbath school -- so she had a very interesting little class, but Mr Stephens teaches her class while she is absent. We have a real good "sexton" (Mr Pauly), who keeps the church clean, and nice, and always has it warm, and comfortable -- The trees and shrubery you spoke of planting out in the church yard will be a decided improvement to the yard. Mr Stephens is well, and wishes to be remembered kindly to you -- with many kind wishes for your health, and happiness, this New Year. I remain your affectionate Cousin Brook StephensHolt Jan 3 1883 My dear Cousin. Happy New Year! I must thank you for the beautiful "Christmas Card" you were so kind to send me. It is lovely. Nearer my God to Thee" is a favorite hymn of mine. I appreciate your kind remembrance of me very much indeed. We had a pleasant, but quiet Christmas in our little neighborhood. My son Minor Stephens was home from Colege [286] during theThos. McRoberts, Prest. G.W. Welsh, Jr., Cashier. G.W. Welsh, Vice=Prest 2409. J.H. Engleman, Ass't Cashier. Farmers National Bank, Capital, $100,000. Danville, Ky. 15th Jany 1883- Hon J Holt Dear Sir Find inclosed certificate endorsed, which shows undivided property 12th Oct 1865 Since then about 23 acres in SE 1/4 Section 9 has been Sold All of the residue is unsold & belongs to the parties in interest except Chicago St Paul and Milwaukee RR Bed which runs through that next to the River-- Deed to Your lots I will send to Recorder of Deeds for Houston County, for record with instructions to forward it to you after recording, will look to tax liens & have it fixed if it can be done and I believe it can Your frd Thos McRoberts [*287*]Office of the Associated Charities, 1418 F St. N.W., Washington, D. C. This is to Certify, That [*J. Holt*] is a Member of "The Associated Charities of the District of Columbia," having complied with the provisions of the Constitution relative to membership and contributed [*Ten*] Dollars to its funds, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged with the thanks of the Association. [*Jany 18, 1883*] [*LS. Emery*] [*General*] Secretary. [*288*]Tuesday Louisville Jan. 23 - My Dear Mr. Holt, How are you? I have grown anxious to hear. The whole autumn & a portion of the winter has passed, and my disabled right hand has precluded the possibility of making enquiries about you and expressing the solicitude I felt. The Christmas [*289*] [*dwell upon your words. Your generous friendship is one of the sweet assurances of my life - a solace that I treasure and am ever grateful for. I hope you are well. I think of you much. Most sincerely and affectionately M. Rose Speed*]time I wished so much the scene that greeted us might give you pleasure also. A beautiful Christmas tree. Fourteen little children singing Christmas Carols with sweet refrains and glad Hallelujahs, The sudden bursting in upon them of a merry Kris Kringle who stripped the tree of its gifts for them leaving only its shiny hangings. A delighted little [?ary] and a circle of spectators as much pleased as the children The other side of the picture. I ought not to turn to you. My sister sick here Miss Bellsick, Papa not well, I with a sprained hand, that my right one, & with duties double, trebled. But the issue of it all was well. Even Cousin Fannie Speed promised to come but sickness prevented. She is better now But with all her wealth I think she cares not to live. Half of his large estate valued at over six hundred thousand, Cousin Joshua left her. The other half to be divided among his brothersand sisters of whom there were few. Cousin Fannie is spending the winter at Col. Buckners. I want to tell you of my recent efforts with my [Stay?] paper. In a quiet way I have given it in Shelbyville Danville & Frankfort, in Chapel, Parlor, Ball-room, to most attentive appreciative audiences - not large but satisfactory & remunerative. If one iron does not fire well another may prove a more responsive mettle. What it gets me cannot be charged to lack of enterprise, but to lack of available capacity I suppose. You are so kind and encouraging always dear Mr. Holt, I remember andAbilene Dickenson Co Kans Jany 30. 1883 Hon Joseph Holt Dear Sir Reading the Lutheren Observer I observed your name and red your situation I ask your pardon in writing to you I am in poor circumstances have two daughters the one Lizzie Margaret is seventeen and Albertha May is fourteen having been unfortunate and lost all our property the Idea came to my mind probably if I would write to you you would aid me I would like to educate my daughters if I could have the means now for all that is near and dear on earth to me is help me and it would be thankfully received and an honour to you name so long as we live Yours Respectfully Ann C. Hoffman please answer imediatly [*290*]Bloomfield Feb 4th 1883 Dear Cousin It is always a pleasure to hear from you. I have thought for a moment of counting letters with a cousin, that I have heard so much about. Grand Ma, has preserved many of the complimentary notices of you from the beginning of your career in life, to the present time. Im looking over some papers for her, I found them carefully put away. Wash & Vanda are fortunate indeed to spend the winter in [*291*]Florada. We have had a a dreary winter. The sunny days, few & far between, just, the weather for the blues. I hope ?anders health, will be improved by the trip & with you, will be able to visit us in the Spring. I have heard the church was beautiful. It is one of the many good deeds you have done. The friends in the bottom are so thankful to you for it. Since Amanda Burks marriage there will be no more home weddings—all will go to the beautiful church. I am glad you think of us sometimes, only wish you lived nearer to us, then we would see you often. One of the most, delightful visits of my childhood was to your house with my mother. Grand Ma will be 89 years old the 15th of this month she is very feeble - says often she will not be with us long. This place has been in The family ninty one years, & The house is eighty Three years old - Its a good thing for us The house was built so well. You saw Sank Stone when you were here last. his father was James Stone, a Congressman from here for two terms. Sank was sent to Anchorage to be cured of The morphine habit. Nannie Brown has been here since spring, in bad health. She has a nervous disease, that [*291a*]has rendered her incapable of careing for her family. We think she will be able to return to L soon, Sallie S Stone has been teaching school in Spencer since September, is delighted with her school. I am sorry I have not, the all important secret to impart to you, but, live in hope of being able to do so, before Many years pass away. All join me in love to you. Your affectionate Cousin S S Dorsey. Mrs Dr Merrifield sends her regards to youNewport Feb 5th 1883 Hon Joseph Holt The only excuse I have to render in writing to a stranger is an innate desire to learn something of my fathers family if possible A gentleman from Washington learning my maiden name to be Holt remarked that he thought I might be a descendant of the same family of Hon Joseph Holt of Washington I told him I knew but little of father otherwise than he was a descendant of Lord John Holt of England and I also know my [*292.*]grandfathers name was Joseph Holt of Verginnie My father left me an orphan when a little child and I am now without parents he leaving me for a legacy an unsullied honor his great mistake was a misplaced confidence in his partners honor who worked his ruin and left him poor and he rapidly sunk beneath the blow and was gone I have ever kept his memory sacred and now if I could find some one who could tell me something of the Holt race that I might find a living relative I have a husband but we are poor by his loosing his health by the great exposure to the cold when in feeble health but we are honorable If you can give me any information upon the above named subject I shall be only to gratified if not excuse me and burn my missive I have to appeal to you as a gentleman to excuse me for my seeming boldness Most Respectfully yours Mrs Mary E H M Smith Newport WCPalatka Fla. Feb. 6th 1883. Hon. Joseph Holt My Dear Friend & Bro. I am very much obliged to you for the satisfactory letter it was your pleasure to write in regard to the case and its issues of Mrs. Surratt. The facts in the case fully exhonorate you from any blame, and from any want of sympathy in the case. The manner in which this odium was fixed on you was most ungracious and abominablely wicked. I never knew before, that the evidence of guilt was so conclusive against Mrs. Surratt; but always thought that her age and sex, and the magninimity of a great nation, might at least have commuted her punishment. [*293*]2. I feel to thank God that in the process of time you have been able to vindicate yourself so conclusively. I feel further gratified, that the allusion I took occasion to make to you on the occasion of the dedication of the Memorial Church, which is a monument to your honored mother and yourself. The vindication which I made on general principles, led to further disclosing, and to my subsequent inquiries of you which has terminated in the high satisfaction that you have suffered a cruel persecution to conseal an infamy that belonged to other persons, and that all done for selfish ends. Poor humanity, how frail andd vishius! You will please excuse me, that I have been so slow toanswer your letter, though it was so highly appriciated. I recived it during the session of our conference at Jacksonville. Just as the conference closed, I was taken sick, and it run into the jaundice, and made me a yellow man for a time. I sat several times to answer your letter, but on the arrival of the time was too unwelll to attempt it. I feel now to have recovered. Learning that in Kentucky they are having a severe winter we purpose to remain in Fla. until some time in March. We have had the pleasure of meeting your nephew, and Niece from your old homestead in Kentucky. This meeting gave us much pleasure. [*294*]as they are both interesting to us. Your niece though feeble is lively and very interesting to us, and your nephew also. We expect to visit them next Summer and have a pleasant time with them. Two days ago I received a letter from your nephew, who tells me that it is his purpose to go home by the way of New Orleans, when the weather will make it safe. My wife joins in kindest regards to you. Most truly and affectionately yours H. H. KavanaughMonday Feb 12 Dear Judge Holt Your letter received a few days ago, expressing sympathy was cheering to me, but I am distressed to hear that you are anticipating an affliction similar to mine. But dear friend, do not dread it. It is not so bad, as it seems. I was struck down four months ago, & here [*295*]a little verse learned in my childhood illustrates my meaning. "Strength is promised, strength is given, When the heart by God is riven. But foredate the day of woe, Thou alone must bear the blow." If paralysis comes, remember you must not worry. The Drs sayworry causes the disease & prevents its cure. My special worry has been bad cooking. There never was a place so difficult to keep house in, as West Point. It is almost impossible to get a good cook and if you find one, to obtain materials for her to cook with. You will be spared this worry, that is if you have the same cordon bleu in your kitchen who used to serve the delicious breakfasts, & dinners, I so well remember. [*296*]I am seated in my easy chair, cheerful, as the day My mind filled, with delightful memories, not the least of which, are our long friendship, & the happy hours, spent, under your hospitable roof! Evils are much worse I find, in anticipation, than reality. God is very good, & with the trial sends strength to bear itI pray God night & morning to avert the blow from you & if He sends it, to give you strength & courage to bear it. Do write us again & believe me as ever, Yours affectionately, Anna W. Curtis [*296a*]Bloomfield Ky Feby 12 1883 Hon Jos. Holt Dear Sir Your kind favor received enclosing me Ten Dollars for which accept my most profound thanks and gratitude. Have been sick and unable to work or I would not have called upon you. I lost one Hundred and fifty dollars money loaned which I laboured industriously for. Hope that It will not be necessary for me to call on you again. Old Miss looks very feeble, all the not well. It is pleasure for me to meet the family when we come again [*297*]I hope to see you, Your most Respt Maria SternWashington, Feb. 15, 1883. My dear Sir: I forgot to tell you that, thinking our Society (adjourned to meet at one o'clock) might not get through the business to come before us in half an hour, I have changed the time for the invited guests to meet them from 1 1/2 to 2 P.M. I shall send invitations to more than fifty gentlemen, but perhaps not one half will come, unless all public business should be [*298*]suspended on that day 22d Feb'y. Very respectfully & truly Horatio King Gen. Joseph Holt Washington.Bloomfield Feb 16th 1883 Dear cousin, I received your letter containing money for Maria, and delivered it to her. She was so thankful to you for it. Maria lives with her son near us- her health is good, for one of her age. Grand Ma says she was always devoted to Uncle John & Aunt Elizabeth on that account she has been a favorite servant of hers. I am glad to hear Vandas health has improved. Change often does one more good [*299*]than medicine. We have had plenty of rain & sleet this winter. This is the brightest day, we have had for weeks. I hope Cousin you will be well enough to come to Ky this Spring, and make us the promised visit. We are always so glad to see you. Uncle enjoy your visits so much. Grand Ma sends love to you. Let us hear from you some times. With love to my cousin. Yours affectionately Sallie Dorsey78 Madison Ave. N. Y. Feb 16th '83 My dear Friend Thank you so much for your last kind letter, containing such happy predictions for the future of my dear boy. I believe your prophetic words will be fulfilled — Barclay is not only the good son you imagine him to be, but in the pursuance of his studies he has shown a degree of energy which secured for him the valedictory, a scholarship and a number of prizes. Should this energy and perseverance characterize his professional career he is sure of success. And yet I have my fears;— not that he will be sluggish in the hard work before [*300*]him of fighting with the world, or that he will be a less conscientious and persevering worker in the future than in the past. But I contemplate with many misgivings the long struggle which in common with other young men, he has before him. Young lawyers here have to wait so long before getting into practice, if indeed in the end they find anything to do — Failure rather than success is so often their bitter experience. AsValedictorian Barclay delivered an oration, which I am sure you will be amiable enough to see with patience and with that leniency with which you used to read his compositions. How well I remember the patient attention you once gave to several of these youthful productions, gravely offered for your perusal by his fond grandmother — Perhaps I will sometime send you this oration and obtain your criticism and candid judgment, and if it elicits even the faintest word of commendation from him whose "fervid eloquence" has been the boast of the Nation and the theme of the orator, I shall indeed have cause to be proud. You say nothing of your health this winter, but I hope to hear soon that you are free from those obstinate colds which so completely prostrate you. You know how much interested I am in all that concerns your health, and I am sure you will gratifyme by telling me in all your letters how you are, whether those torturing rheumatic pains have left you, and whether you have thrown off that troublesome influenza. Of my own family I alone escape these colds. Nellie is the sufferer just now, and Mr. Johnson also — and they will not throw them off probably until the spring days come. I am very tired of the short gloomy days of winter, and I long for the sunshine. New York has but few attractions for me, though I enjoy greatly the hours spent in the Art galleries and shall greatly miss them when we go to the country — Mr. Johnson and Nellie send[s] warmest regards and I remain your attached friend S. B. J.Washington, Feb. 21, 1883. 12 M. My dear Sir: I am very sorry to inform you that I have this moment received a dispatch from judge Black, dated at York, Pa. [&] saying — "Business engagement of importance compels me to decline your invitation." Well, we cannot expect every thing as we would have it. Of course you will come and meet several gentlemen well known to you. Among those whose acceptances have been received, are Mr. Justice Matthews, Mr. Justice Strong [*301*]Marshal McMichael, Senator Anthony, Ex-Secretary McCulloch, Gen. Foster, Ex. Min. to Russia, Secretary Lincoln & P. M. General House Very truly yours, Horatio King Gen. Joseph Holt, Washington. P. S. I hope to see Mr. Bancroft, as well as Mr. Corcoran and other members of the Society not excepting Gen. Dunn, who, as you are no doubt aware, has had an operation upon one of his eyes.Office of the Collector of Taxes, District of Columbia, Washington, Feby 23 1882. Mr. J H Smith On the following real estate, to wit: West 28 feet, 9 1/2 metres of Lot 10, Square 763. assessed in 1882 in the name of Paul Bonavedes there now appears by the books and records of taxes and assessments to be due and unpaid the following assessments of tax, as hereon certified to by the officers in charge of the respective accounts: Office of the Assistant Assessor, District of Coumbia, Feby 25 1883 Collector of Taxes, D. C. : I hereby certify that the books and records of taxes and assessments of this office for years 1860 to 1883 show that upon the property described above, taxes due as follows: all paid, West 28 feet, 9 1/2 metres of Lot 10, Square 763, in the name of Paul Bonavedes. with penalty and interest thereon, as provided by law, and as per schedule hereto annexed. William Morgan Assistant Assessor. [*SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DIV: REC'D FEB 27 1883 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.*] Office of the Special Assessment Division, District of Columbia, February 27 1883 Collector of Taxes, D. C.: I hereby certify that upon the property above described in this certificate the records of this office show the following assessments for special improvements: Square 763. Lot of 10, fronting 28 9 1/2 / 12 feet on C. street [*5/66*] in name of Paul Bonavedes, No unpaid asst. Wm Oscar Roome Chief of Special Assessment Division. Office of the Engineer Commissioner, District of Columbia, Feb. 28 1883. 12788 Collector of Taxes, D. C.: I hereby certify that upon the property described in this certificate the records of this office show that the water main tax is paid in full on the above described property. By order of the Engineer Commissioner: J. Will Cross Clerk Witness my hand and seal of office the 3rd day of March 1883. John F. [Cook?] Collector of Taxes, District of Columbia. 5/46 WATER RENT EXCEPTED. 5/41 Fee, 50 Cents, Paid. [*302*]If Bills are Wanted, Return this Slip. OFFICE OF ASSESSOR, D. C., W 28.9% Feby 23 1883 Lot 10 Square 763 YEAR. TAX DUE. TO WHOM ASSESSED. FOLIO. 1860 1861 S H Platt 1862 D Mudd 1863 1864 S N Hilton 1865 1866 1867 1868 1869 1870 1871-2 M Spilling 1873 1874 1875 1876 1877 1878 1879 Paul Bonavedes 1880 1881 1882 1883 266 Corporation Specials Wm [*302a*]2-314 C Romney, 814-3 N C Callan, 55-8Office of the Associated Charities, 1418 F St. N.W., Washington, D. C. This is to Certify, That [*Hon. J. Holt*] is a Member of "The Associated Charities of the District of Columbia," having complied with the provisions of the Constitution relative to membership and contributed [*Ten*] Dollars to its funds, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged with the thanks of the Association. [*a contribution*] [*LS. Emery*] [*General*] Secretary. [*February 24 1883*] [*303*]This indenture, Made this twenty seventh day of February, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighty-three by and between Catherine Howard (formerly Catherine Spilling, and later Dixon, and heir at law of Michael Spilling deceased) of the City of Washington District of Columbia, of the first part ,and Paul Bonavedes of the same place of the second part, Witnesseth, That the said party of the first part, for and in consideration of the sum of ten - (10) Dollars, in lawful money of the United States, to her in hand paid by the said party of the second part, at and before the sealing and delivery of these presents, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, has granted, bargained, sold, aliened, released, quit-claimed and conveyed, and does by these presents grant, bargain, sell, alien, release, quit-claim and convey unto the said Paul Bonavedes his heirs and assigns the following described real estate situation in the City of Washington District of Columbia, to wit. Part of original lot numbered ten (10) in square numbered seven hundred and sixty three (763) being the west twenty eight (28) feet, nine and one half (9 1/2) inches front by the depth of said lot. Together, with all the improvements, ways, easements, rights, privileges, and appurtenances, to the same belonging, or in anywise appertaining, and all the remainders, reversions, rents, issues, and profits thereof; and all the estate, right, title, interest, claim and demand, either at law or in equity, or otherwise however, of the said party of the first part, of, in, to, or out of the said piece of land and premises 304To Have and to Hold the said piece or parcel of land and premises and appurtenances unto the said Paul Bonavedes his heirs and assigns forever. In Testimony Whereof, the said party of the first part has hereunto set her hand and seal on the day and year first hereinbefore written. Catherine Howard SEAL Signed, sealed, and delivered in the presence of-- E.J. Sweet. SEAL of, } of, } 88: in and for the aforesaid, in the said, do hereby certify that part to a certain Deed, bearing date on the day of , A.D. 188 , and hereunto annexed, personally appeared before in the aforesaid, the said being personally well known to to be the person who executed the said Deed, and acknowledged the same to be act and deed. Given under hand and seal, this day of , A.D. 188 . District of Columbia,} of ,}88: I Edwin J. Sweet a Notary Public in and for the District aforesaid, in the said , do hereby certify that Catherine Howard party to a certain Deed, bearing date on the twenty seventh day of February, A.D. 1883, and hereunto annexed, personally appeared before me in the District aforesaid, the said Catherine Howard being personally well known to me to be the person who executed the said Deed and acknowledged the same to be her act and deed, and the said Catherine Howard being by me examined privily and apart from her husband and having the Deed aforesaid fully explained to her, acknowledged the same to be her act and deed, and declared that she had willingly signed, sealed and delivered the same, and that she wished not to retract it. Given under my hand and notarial seal this twenty seventh day of February, A.D. 1883. Edwin J. Sweet. Notary Public.13 DEED - Quit Claim. Catherine Howard To Paul Bonavedes, Received for Record on the 3 day of March, A. D. 1883, at 12 o'clock M., and Recorded in Liber No 1034 Folio 169 et seq one of the Land Records for the District of Columbia and examined by Fred. Douglass Recorder LWW F. H. Smith & Son, 515 7th Street, N. W. WASHINGTON, D. C. Printed and Sold by J. S. Tomlinson 632 F Street N. W. Published by J. Bradley Adams, 814 F and 505 Seventh StThis Indenture, Made this Second day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighty-three by and between Paul Bonavedes and Mary Bonavedes his wife of Washington District of Columbia. of the first part, and Joseph Holt of the same place party of the second part: Witnesseth, That the said parties of the first part, for and in consideration of the sum of Two thousand two hundred and fifty (2250.) Dollars, in lawful money of the United States, to them in hand paid by the said party of the second part, at and before the sealing and delivery of these presents, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, have granted, bargained, sold, aliened, enfeoffed, released, and conveyed, and do by these presents, grant, bargain, sell, alien, enfeoff, release, and convey unto the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, forever, the following described real estate situate in the City of Washington, District of Columbia, to wit: All that certain piece or parcel of land and premises known and distinguished as and being the west twenty eight (28) feet, nine and one half (9 1/2) inches front by the depth of original lot numbered ten (10) in square numbered seven hundred and sixty three (763.) [*305*]Together with all the improvements, ways, easements, rights, privileges, appurtenances, and hereditaments, to the same belonging, or in anywise appertaining, and all the remainders, reversions, rents, issues, and profits thereof; and all the estate, right, title, interest, claim, and demand whatsoever, either at law or in equity, of the said parties of the first part, of, in, to, or out of the said piece or parcel of land and premises. To have and to hold, the said piece or parcel of land and premises, with the appurtenances, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, to his and their sole use, benefit, and behoof, forever. And the said parties of the first part, for themselves and for their heirs, executes, and administrators, do hereby covenant, promise, and agree, to and with the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, that they the said parties of the first part and their heirs shall and will warrant and forever defend the said piece of parcel of land and premises and appurtenances, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, from and against the claims of all persons claiming or to claim the same, or any part thereof, by, from, under, or through them or any of them and against the claims of all persons whomever And further, that they, the said parties of the first part, and their heirs, shall and will at any and at all times hereafter, upon the request and at the cost of the said party of the second part, his heirs or assigns make, execute, deliver, and acknowledge all such other Deed or Deeds, or other assurance in law, for the more certain and effectual conveyance of the said piece or parcel of land and premises and appurtenances, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs or assigns, as the said party of the second part, his heirs or assigns, or his counsel learned in the law shall advise, devise, or require. In Testimony Whereof, the said parties of the first part have hereunto set their hands and seals on the day and year first hereinbefore written Paul Bonavedes Seal Mary Bonavedes Seal Signed, sealed, and delivered in the presence of— E. J. Sweet District of Columbia, to wit: I, Edwin J. Sweet, a Notary Public in and for the District aforesaid, Do hereby certify, That Paul Bonavedes and Mary Bonavedes his wife parties to a certain Deed, bearing date on the Second day of March, A.D. 1883, and hereunto annexed, personally appeared before me, in the District aforesaid, the said Paul Bonavedes and Mary Bonavedes being personally well known to me to be the person who execute the said Deed and acknowledged the same to be his act and deed, and the said Mary Bonavedes being of full age and by me examined privily and apart from her husband and having the Deed aforesaid full explained to her, acknowledged the same to be her act and deed, and declared that she had willingly signed, sealed and delivered the same, and that she wished not to retract it. Given under my hand and notarial seal this sixth day of March, A.D. 1883. Edwin J. Sweet Notary Public2 DEED. FROM Paul Bonavedes et wc TO Joseph Holt Received for the Record on the 7 day of March, A.D. 1883, at 9:40 o'clock aM., and Recorded in Liber No. 1033, folio 104. Et.Seq, one of the Land Records of the District of Columbia, and examined by — Fredk Douglass — Recorder [*Published and Sold by J. Bradley Adams, 814 F St., and 505 7th St, N. W.*]This Indenture, Made this second day of March, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eighty-three by and between Maria C. Fitzhugh surviving Executrix and trustee of the Estate of Daniel Carroll deceased, of the District of Columbia of the first part, and Joseph [H] Holt of said District of the second part, Witnesseth, That the said party of the first part, for and in consideration of the sum of twenty Dollars, in lawful money of the United States, to her in hand paid by the said party of the second part, at and before the sealing and delivery of these presents, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, hath granted, bargained, sold, aliened, released, quit-claimed and conveyed, and doth by these presents grant, bargain, sell, alien, release, quit-claim and convey unto the said Joseph H. Holt, his heirs and assigns, the following described real Estate situate in the City of Washington District of Columbia, to wit: Part of Original lot numbered ten (10) in Square numbered seven hundred and sixty-three (763), being the West twenty Eight feet, nine and one half inches (28 ft 9 1/2 in) front, by the depth of said lot Together, with all the improvements, ways, easements, sights, privileges, and appurtenances, to the same belonging, or in anywise appertaining, and all the remainders, reversions, rents, issues, and profits thereof; and all the estate, sight, title, interest, claim and demand, either at law or in equity, or otherwise however, of the said party of the first part, of, in, to, or out of the said piece of parcel of land [306]To have and to hold the said piece or parcel of land and premises and appurtenances unto the said Joseph [H], Holt, his heirs and assigns forever In Testimony Whereof, the said Maria C Fitzhugh have hereunto set her hand and seal on the day and year first hereinbefore written Maria C. Fitzhugh. SEAL Signed, sealed, and delivered in the presence of — C. P. Drury SEAL United States of America, District of Columbia, }SS: I Chas. P. Drury , a notary public in and for the District of Columbia aforesaid, in the said United States, do hereby certify that Maria C. Fitzhugh party to a certain Deed, bearing date on the second day of March, A.D. 1883. and hereunto annexed, personally appeared before me in the District aforesaid, the said Maria C. Fitzhugh being personally well known to me to be the person who executed the said Deed, and acknowledged the same to be her act and deed. Given under my hand notarial seal, this Second day of March, A.D. 1883. Charles P. Drury Notary Public. D.C. of, of, }SS: in and for the aforesaid, in the said, do hereby certify that part to a certain Deed, bearing date on the day of , A.D. 188, and hereunto annexed, personally appeared before in the aforesaid, the said being personally well known to to be the person who execute the said Deed and acknowledged the same to be act and deed, and the said being by examined privily and apart from husband and having the Deed aforesaid fully explained to, acknowledged the same to be act and deed, and declared that had willingly signed, sealed and delivered the same, and that wished not to retract it. Given under hand and seal this day of, A.D. 18812 DEED--Quit Claim. Maria C. Fitzhugh Exc TO Joseph [H] Holt Received for Record on the 3 day of March, A.D. 1883, at 12 o'clock M., and Recorded in Liber No 1034 Folio 168 et seq--one of the Land Records for the District of Columbia--and examined by Fredk. Douglass Recorder [???] F.H. Smith & Son 515 7th Street, N.W. WASHINGTON, D.C. Printed and Sold by J.S. Tomlinson 632 F Street N.W.Mar 3 1883 Abstract of the Title to part of lot Ten (10) in Square No. 763. Being the West twenty eight (28) feet nine and a half (9 1/2) inches front of said lot Ten. In the division of lots in the City of Washington, between the original proprietors and the public, lot Ten (10) in Square No. 763, was allotted to Daniel Carroll, as such proprietor. 14. September 1796. [*307*] F.H. Smith & Son Real Estate Brokers, Life and Fire Insurance No. 515 Seventh Street, Northwest. $20.00 Received of F.H. Smith & Son The sum of Twenty 00 Dollars Being for Quit Claim from Carroll Estate lot 10 sq 763 Washington, D.C., March 3 1883 W. E. Waggoner Mar 3 1883 Abstract of the Title to part of lot Ten (10) in Square No. 763. Being the West twenty eight (28) feet nine and a half (9 1/2) inches front of said lot Ten. In the division of lots in the City of Washington, between the original proprietors and the public, lot Ten (10) in Square No. 763, was allotted to Daniel Carroll, as such proprietor. 14. September 1796. [307]Daniel Carroll } to } Moses Tabbs et al. } Trustees } Deed of Trust 2 November 1829. Conveys this and other property in trust, to sell etc. Liber W. B. 28 F. 10. Moses Tabbs et al. } to Trustees, } James Whitfield, } Archbishop of Baltimore, } Deed. 8 February 1830. Conveys this lot to be used for the good &c of the Congregation of the Roman Catholics of St. Peters Church, which church stands on Square no. 733. Liber W. B. 34 f. 505. Note Section 34 of the Declaration of Rights of the State of Maryland, in force in this District, declares that any sale to any minister in trust, for any religious sect &c without leave of the legislature shall be void, except for place of worship. Under this section the above deed to James Whitfield is void and the legal title would still remain in the heirs of Daniel Carroll, presuming the trusts in above deed to be settled. [Corporation?] of Washington Deed 26 November 1822. Recites sale of this lot to } for taxes in name of Daniel Carroll and conveys. Edward Simms } Liber Corp. WB. 2. f. 26. Edward Simms & wife } to } John Castigan. } Deed. February 26. 1847. Conveys this lot Liber W. B. 134 f. 279. John Castigan } to } Domenic Mudd } Deed. 10 January 1852. Conveys this lot. No wife joins. Liber J.a.s. 34. f. 380. [Corporation?] of Washington Deed. 8 September 1858. Recites sale of this part of lot as to } D. Mudd's and conveys. Liber J.a.s. 161 f. 58. Samuel H. Platt. } [*308*]South C street alley alley alley 29.9 1/2 10 95-7 [*308 1/2*]Samuel H. Platt wife } to } Domenic Mudd } Deed. 22 January 1861. Quit claims all interest in this part of lot Ten. Liber J.A.S. 213.f.103 Domenic Mudd } to } Samuel N. Hilton } Deed. 3 June 1862. Conveys the West 28 ft. 9 1/2 inches of lot Ten. No wife joins in this deed. Liber J.A.S. 220.F.118 Samuel N. Hilton wife } to } Michael Spilling } Deed. 24 October 1864. Conveys "part of lot 1 being the West twenty eight nine and a half inches (28ft 9 12ins) &c" Liber U.C.T.30.f.273. Note In above description the word fee is omitted in writing. Catherine Spilling by } M. Thompson, guardian } vs. } Thomas Pearce et al. } Bill for sale, filed in 1868. Recites death of Michael Spilling, intestate, leaving a widow and two daughters, the plaintiff and Margaret Dempsey as his only heirs at law. The case was referred to Auditor who refuted that case was not in proper form, which was overruled by the Court. Deall for sale was passed and M. M. Thompson and Wm. Jno. Miller were appointed Trustees. They sold, which sale was ratified by consent though it does not say that is was final. Widow's dower was set off and infant's share ordered to be paid to her guardian. During suit, Catherine married Thomas Dixon the case was continued in her name The case was concluded in March 1871. No. 1276 Equity Note. There are some irregularities in this case. M. Thompson & W. J. Miller } Trustees } to Paul Bonavedes. } Deed. 15. March 1871. Recites above cause, sale &c and conveys this property Liber 641.f.225. Catherine Howard } to } Paul Bonavedes } Quit Claim Deed. February 1883. All interest in this part of said lot. Recorded 3 March 1883. Liber note Catherine Howard, formerly Dixon, formerly Spilling [*309*]makes this deed to cure any defect in her appearance in above Equity cause. Maria C. Fitzhugh } to } Joseph Holt. } Deed 2.March 1883. Conveys as surviving Executrix and trustee of Daniel Carroll's Estate all this part of said lot. Recorded 3.March 1883. Liber f . Certificate. I find no judgments against Paul Bonavedes. The title held by Paul Bonavedes is that under two tax sales of 4.May 1830 and 14.May 1856. and deed of record in Liber Corp. W. B. 2 f. 26 and J.A.S. 161.f.58 and with peaceable adverse possession since that time I would repaid it as safe. The outstanding title of the Carrolls is now as above shown, in Joseph Holt. I consider and report that a deed from Paul Bonavedes and wife of the title held by him will vest a good title in Joseph Holt. The Collector's certificate should be shown for taxes. Wm. R. Woodward 3.March 1883. [*310-11*]F.H. SMITH & SON, REAL ESTATE BROKERS, LIFE AND FIRE INSURANCE, No. 515 SEVENTH STREET, NORTHWEST. $25 00/100 Received of F.H. Smith & Son the sum of Twenty five 00/100 Dollars, being in full for Abst, pt lot 10. sq 763, for Judge Holt Washington, D.C., March 5 1883. Wm P. Woodward [*312*]F.H. SMITH AND SON, Real Estate Brokers, LIFE AND FIRE INSURANCE, 515 Seventh Street Northwest. Washington, D.C., March 6 1883 Genl Joseph Holt In account with F.H. SMITH & SON, Dr. Cr. Abstract of title pt lot 10 sq 763 25 00 Certificate of taxes 50 Quit claim of Carrol Estate 20 00 Commission 112 50 $157 00 Recd Payment [313- - - - 317] F H Smith & SonMarch 17th My Dear Mr Holt, A letter from Washington yesterday made my heart glad — yes glad, for it spoke of a visit from you You were well: you were so agreeable. You were very kind You were just yourself! Are you not glad that I was made glad? It was like seeing a rainbow in the sky, that makes the heart leap up. You remember Wordsworth's lines? I was thinking of you all day long on Sunday. Not feeling well and lying on the bed, my senses were [318-19]were closed to the outer world and thought was busy within. It seemed as if you must be near and I reached out my hands to you that a touch or a word might soothe my weary spirit. Well the thought was a comfort, tired when I do see you, will it be between brains? Will you stop only a day? Will it be as usual but a moment? Then as usual also, I am liable to be overcome with an utter helplessness, and inability to be other than intensely stupid, when my only recourse is to crawl within my shell and be — an oyster, Then please just eat me up. Take me down at one fell swoop or chop me into pieces and make an end of me. But what will you do with your own dignified reserve, Mr Holt? It scares me to death. Am I saying what I should not? I don't know whether to feel ashamed or not of my last letter to you. I believe it depends upon you. I said so many things to which I never or seldom give utterance. But if you say it is all right it is. If not, then please write "My child, I forgive you". You must pardon any scratches for I am very shaky. I expect to go up to Chicago tomorrow nightto see Dr Hyde and get the benefit of a few days change — I wish to tell you so. Dr Humphry enquired very specially about you recently. He spoke in such exalted terms of your character and attainments and expressed the hope of seeing you when you came. You must know of his great sorrow in the loss of his wife in Sept. What a man he is! I do love him, When will you come? With a great deal of love Faithfully yours M Rose Speed Mary had improved but it will again require time to bring her to the point of even progression and continued care I wish to see in her — She looks well and happy.University of Michigan. Department of Medicine and Surgery. Ann Arbor, Mich., Apr 4th 1883 Hon Jos Holt Louisville Ky. Dear Sir: I am an autograph collector and am desirous of completing my set of Pres. Buchanans Cabinet. Hon Horatio King I believe is still living, Can you give me his address. Yourself Mr King and Hon J. S. Black I believe are all of Pres Buchanans Cabinet now living. Kindly let me hear from you I am Yours Respcty Geo. A. Head [*320*]Cloverport Ky April 9/83. Hon. Joseph Holt, Washington D. C. — Dear Sir:— I was requested by Dr. J. E. Brown, W. D. Holt's physician of this city, to ask you to send him some plants from the government botanical gardens. The following are the ones wanted. Erythroxylon Coca, Vanilla Planifolia, [Cinchona Yellow & Red —] Gaultheria Procumbens. [*321*]The Doctor is a dear lover of flowers & plants & it will afford him a great deal of satisfaction to get these plants, as they are Medicinal plants. At present he is too busy to write to you himself; therefore had me to write. You will confer a great favor by sending. Yours Respectfully A. A. Simons.Office of R. H. Haines, HEADQUARTERS OR BRANCH HEADQUARTERS FOR OLD IRON-CLAD STRAWBERRY, TEXAS RED BLACKBERRY, IVANHOE APPLE AND DODGE'S HYBRID PEAR. New and Choice Fruits a Specialty. Strawberries, Raspberries, Apples, Pears, Blackberries, Grape Vines, etc., Berry Baskets, Fertilizers, etc. Moorestown, Burlington Co., N. J., april 10th 1883, Mr J. Holt Dear Sir: Your favor of 9th inst. is at hand with 6,20 inclosed, and I will send you by [Mail] Express [Fast Freight and Steamer about the] few days [inst.] goods as desired. For care of Plants and Trees upon arrival, and to obtain the best success in planting, etc., see pages 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 19, 21 and 1 in "THE FRUIT GROWER'S FRIEND." Hoping that pieces will prove ENTIRELY SATISFACTORY, and that I may be favored with further orders whenever you may need anything in my line, I remain, WITH THANKS, yours truly. I will write again when sending plants. R. H. HAINES. Per H. [*322*]R. H. Haines[*Apr 13, 1883*] Hon Joseph Holt I read in the Presbyterian Banner that after having served as Post Master General and also Secretary of war and Judge Advocate General you had retired to Private life a childless widower If this be true I suppose you have no one to fall heir to your estate supposing that you have been blessed with such. I am a man of 40 years of age have met with reverses in fortune, My Brother and I engaged in Partnership a few years ago we Bought a farm together when land was high and rates of Interest high one of Creditors soon after this died his Son [*323*]was appointed Administrator he sent the Sheriffe on and Sold us out, adjoining this farm Mother owned 13 acres this was also Sold to get our Shares out of It, My Sister had made Some money by teaching School She bought this 13 acres for a home for us My Brother being married moved away and I am Staying with my Sister, Mother being now dead, The home farm where my father was raised Joins this 13 acres an Aunt has a life lease of it. It contains 106 acres - will probably Sell for 60 or 70 per acre If I could get any assistance to buy this farm it would be gladly received I then would be made [cof] comfortable and get plenty of work to do as It is I have not that, Perhaps you would [tha] take It a pleasure in lending me a helping hand under my present circumstances as I have here described them to you, If you can I will Send you papers of Execution which I have in my possession Showing that this Statement is reliable When this farm is Sold the money will be givin to heirs as directed by Uncles will and will therefore have to be paid cash, If you have these means and wish to help me I am Sure they will be thankfully recieved I hope you will oblige me in answering my letter as Soon as you can conveniently Address Julius. L. Slemmons Buffalo Pa (Washington Co)JOSEPH W. HOLT, ATTORNEY AT LAW, Hamlin, Lincoln Co., W. Va. Apl. 14th 1883 Gen. Joseph Holt Dear Sir — My object in writing this note is to ask you to do me a small favor, if it is no infringement upon your habits or mode of life. I am, amongst a good many others, prosecuting a claim for invalid pension for James F. Jenkins, where application is Numbered 273.883. This matter has been pending for several years, and all the proofs required have been furnished long ago, and yet we can get no report from the Comr. of Pensions. The man deserves the pension and ought to have had it long since. Would you make an inquiry at the Pension Office as to why the pension has not been granted? I so not insist upon this, if it is Contrary to your wishes. I hope I may have the pleasure of seeing you again before a great while. Very truly, Joseph W. Holt [*324*]Hardinsburg Apl 17 1883 Dear Sir, I have sent you by express $293.15 - collected as follows "Of William Bruner $90 - William Duncan $60.90 - L. P. Cain $60. same $117.90 - James Harrington $40 - of Lewis & Fairligh on ac of land sold to Singleton in Meade County $100 amounting to $468.80 - of which I have paid as follows - clerks fee $53.85 Surveyors fee $8. Jennings amin'r $78.65. My commission, $35.15 - amts to $175.66 - leaving the bal. due you of $273.15. as above sent by express - My last remittance to you was $100 from Jenings estate - after its receipt & remittance I had a calculation made a long & tidious one on act. of the many partial payments, & ascertained [*325*]you had been overpaid the sum of $78.65, which repaid to Jenings adm'r. & took his receipt therefor-- I think the costs are quite settled up Yrs Jesse W. KincheloeHardinsburg K.y Apl. 21" - '83 Dear Sir I sent you by express yesterday $92.50 the amt collected of A Bruner ($100 - less my commission $7.50 yours Jesse W. Kincheloe [*326*]Bloomfield April 24th 1883 Dear Cousin. I received your letter a few days since, was sorry to hear sickness caused you to return home without paying us the promised visit. I hope ere this you are better, and will soon regain your usual health. You have no idea how disappointed we were, when we found you would not, be with us. Grand Ma often says now--she will never see you again [*327*]She is so feeble, and has so many sick spells-- she thinks that each one will be her last. The oranges you sent her came in good order, she enjoyed them very much--thanks you so much for them. How did you find Vanda--I hope the trip to Florad improved her health I think travel, and change or scene often improves one, when Drs fail. To me this is the most delightful season of the year, the weather is just splendid. I enjoy it much--after the gloomy winter [we] we have had. We take Ma in the yard in her rolling chair some times. She always feels better from the ride. I hope in the near future you will come to see us, & bring Vanda with you. We all enjoy your visits so much. Nannie is still with us, her health is so delicate she cannot attend to her children We took her to Chicago to Dr. Bayford--he gave us, but little hope of an early restoration to health. I have been so much in the sick room during the past year--I need a change will leave homesome time this summer if I can--if, I call to see you some of these days dont be astonished Grand Ma sends her love to you--and says, she has love you all of your life. Uncle & Sister are in their usual health, and join me in love to you-- Sallie S Stone has been teaching school, but ill health caused her to give it up. The old home, has been a "haven of rest, to all of us with much love to you. Write to me when ever you can. I am always glad to hear from my cousin Joe. Yours affectionately [Sallie?]PARSONS & SONS CO. (LIMITED) Kissena Nurseries. Flushing, N.Y. 5/3 1883 J Holt Dear Sir We have yours of the 1st. We are having every day many more orders than can possibly executed in one day. We must of course adopt a rule to execute them in the order of their arrival. It would not be fair to take up your order & neglect one received a week previous.-- The are now ready & will go [*328*] tomorrow.-- Your remittance of $2.25 was received. Yours truly Parsons & Sons Co limMay 7th 1883 — Judge Holt Dear Sir, The accompanying notice appeared in the Brook-haven paper this week. As it is complimentary to you, as well as my little Joe, I take pleasure in sending it to you. Res— Yours Sallie K. Holt. [*329*] We clip the following from the Jackson Clarion: 'Joseph Holt, formerly the Napoleon ot the Mississippi bar, and President Buchanan's Postmaster General, and aftewards Secretary of war, and Judge Advocate General, lives in strict retirement in Washington. He is a childless widower, and is seldom seen in public. Judge Holt is an uncle of our little brown- eyed Joe, and foom present prospects, his record, 50 years from now, will be as brilliant as that of his illnstrate uncle.Washington D.C. May 23, '83 Dear General Holt: I enclose to you both the article of Mr. Curtis & the reply of Mr. Clingman. It seems that Mr. Thompson has already made a very thorough answer to the changes of Mr. Clingman in his letter to Judge Black of [*330*]September 1877. No doubt he will [???] all that was then said & I shall have a thorough talk with Judge Black upon the subject. Please retain these slips until I again have the pleasure of seeing you. Very respectf & sincerely F.W. CrawfordWest Newton, Mass. May 24, '83. My dear Sir: Your letter of the 17th inst., post-marked "Washington, May 23d", reached me this morning, — the delay being no doubt, the fault of the forwarding clerk there, who has instructions to charge me with the extra cent on city letters bearing only two cents and forward them without delay. The same, also, as regards printed matter, which cannot now be "forwarded" without a second payment of the postage. Before I left home on the morning of the 17th, I was much gratified to receive a letter from Mr. Geo. Ticknor Curtis, calling my attention to an article he had sent to the New York Sun, completely refuting the charge referred to by the Evening Post, as [*331*]having been made by Mr. Clingman, i.e. that Secretary Thompson went, with President Buchanan's approval, to North Carolina, in Dec. 1860, for the avowed purpose to induce that State to join the State of Mississippi in seceding from the Union. I at once procured the paper containing Mr. Curtis' article, and returned to him "a thousand thanks" for it, especially as it had saved me the trouble of undertaking to reply to the Post myself, as I had fully intended to do, notwithstanding the discouraging nature of your note to me in returning the papers I left for you to read. I need not, however, assure you that I had no thought of bringing your name into the controversy without your express sanction, whatever you might have been pleased to say on the subject. Stopping over a day in New York, I took occasion to call on Mr. Curtis by previous invitation, when he informed me that Mr. Clingman had answered his letter the day before and that the Sun of the present day contained his reply. He sent for and gave me the latter, and I procured the former at the Sun office. I take pleasure in inclosing all three articles, and will thank you to return the two written by Mr. Curtis. You may keep Mr. Clingman's, as I have another copy sent to me by Paymaster John S. Cunningham, who is greatly pleased with my "vindication" of President Buchanan. Now, as Artemas Ward might say, I am disposed to think you a little "Sarkasticle" in the remark that I "stand conspicuously before the country as the friend of Mr. B. and the defender of his administration".True, I have in my humble way, endeavored (by collecting what facts and evidence I could find, going to show tha tthe strong prejudice against Mr Buchanan in respect to the rebellion is unjustly to convince reasonable persons of their error; but in doing this, I have been obliged to rely mainly on the testimony of others and the exhibition of well known facts and circumstances. Occupying, until almost the close of the administration the subordinate position I did whatever I might say could not begin to have the weight that your testimony and that of Judge Black every where command. Judge Black has many times publicly spoken in Mr. Buchanan's defence, But, except the "interview" talk of which, in part, I have made good use, the public has not heard much from you, whose pen, could it have been used, as you know well how to use it, would have left me far in the shade. Yours truly, Horatio King. Hon. Joseph Holt, Washington, D. C.Wash. D.C. May 29/83 My Dear Judge Holt, Absence from the City occasioned my delay in ack. the receipt of yours, with liberal contribution to the Luther Statue. We thank you. You will be gratified to know that the response to our appeal has been so prompt & generous that the Statue has been ordered. Hope your health is good & that in the evening time there is light: Zech. 14:7. Have the honor to be Very truly yours J. G. Miller Hon. J. Holt [*332*]Superior, Douglas Co. Wis May 29, 1883. Judge J. Holt, Washington D. C. Dear Sir: Your letters were both received — the first — one the night after my return home, and in the confusion of unpacking &c. was mislaid. I would suggest that as the land lies on the river to secure each one half of the water front, a line be drawn straight through the centre from the water — dividing it into north and south, and then Mr Johnson and I draw lots — one piece would be quite as valuable as the other — my charges would be nothing except for drawing up deeds if you should desire me to do so. Mr. Johnson can charge Mr Magoffin what he charges. I saw [*333*]2 James Bardon to-day, who says the fellow who cut the timber never paid a cent — he went from here some time since — just now Mr. E. L. Johnson passed and I stopped my letter to speak to him — he says some time since Mr. S. Magoffin wrote to him to commence suit against the trespasser for the money — which does not look as if he had received any thing — the man is a good-for naught sort of a fellow, and not very responsible in any way. Mr. Johnson thinks my plan a good one — if it meets with your approbation let me know & I will attend to it with pleasure. Yours truly Sarah B. Anderson [*334*]West Newton, Ms. May 30, 1883. My dear Sir: Your letter of the 27th inst., returning Mr. Curtis' two articles, is received. It is most satisfactory in every respect although I cannot but feel that you give me too prominent a place as a defender of President Buchanan and his Administration. I should not trouble you with a further reference to Gen. Clingman's extraordinary statement, but for your remark, in which I fully concur, that, since "the shameless slander has an enduring form", you "trust its exposure and denunciation will find a form equally enduring in Curtis forthcoming life of the [*335*]President". In point of fact, however, Mr. Curtis said to me that he did not intend to make any reference to the matter in his book. He spoke so decidedly that I did not undertake to question his decision, nor do I suppose anything I might say would alter his determination, although, if I were at liberty to inform him of your view of the subject, I should not hesitate to write him. I have never met him until the other day on my way here, and my impression of him in that he has a good deal of the New England, or I might better say of the Boston Beacon sheer sternness of character, which is not easily changed. Thoroughly honest and self-reliant, there seemed to be little at all, liable about him; and I can readily see why a genial man like Judge McArthur should say as he did to me the other day, that he "did not like him". By this, however, I do not wish to be understood as having any dislike to him myself, only that I should feel rather more "at home" with persons of a different temperament, like Judge McArthur, for instance, or our friend Gen. Dunn. Very respectfully & truly, Horatio King. Hon. Joseph Holt, Washington, D. C.National Armory, Springfield Mass May 30th 1883 Genl. Joseph Holt Washington D. C. My Dear Sir: I hope you will not suppose I have forgotten our Engagement to make some calls together — I have made an unexpected visit here but expect to be at home, so as to make our calls early next week — Yours Truly — W. M. Dunn [*336*]Washington Barracks Washington, D.C., June 1st, 1883. General Joseph Holt, U. S. Army - Washington City - Dear Sir - Mr. Markland's address is as follows - A. H. Markland - The "Lexington" Cor. N. Y. Avenue & 15th St Mr. Markland is usually spoken to as "Colonel though for what reason [*337*] Other than as a mere compliment due to his services in the war I do not know - I should regret very much being if you should find it convenient to come out so far on this place - so I will take the liberty of saying, we are always at home till 2 p. m. Very Respectfully - Your Obt Serv't Loomis L. Langdon Br Lt Col U.S.A. Major 2d Art -Funeral of Mrs. James O. Harrison and Daughter. The funeral of Mrs. James O. Harrison and her daughter, Mrs. Susie Harrison, took place yesterday afternoon at three o'clock, and was largely attended by sor- rowing friends. The entire bar of Lex- ington united in a petition to Judge Buckner to adjourn court so that they might attend the funeral. Hon. M. C. Johnson presented the petition and Judge Buckner, with considerable feeling, granted it, ant the court was adjourned at three o'clock. MOTHER AND DAUGHTER Death of Miss Susie L. Harrison within Twenty-four Hours after the Demise of Her Mother. Yesterday morning the death of Mrs. Margaretta Harrison, consort of our esteemed citizen, James O. Har- rison, Esq., was announced in the TRANSCRIPT. This morning the death of the youngest daughter of this ven- erable couple, Miss Susie, is an- nounced. The bodies of mother and daughter lie together beneath the same roof, sweetly sleeping the sleep of death. The gentle and loving daughter has been ill for some time past and the realization of separation from her mother was the awakening of a longing to be with her. Mrs. Harrison lived to a ripe old age, and laid down a life of domestic useful- ness and loving kindness, as full of the honors of womanhood's noblest type as it was of years, and ripe with the richest fruitage of the best phases of woman's mission on earth. A model of matronly virtues, of mater- nal affection, and a faithful house- wife and 'helpmate indeed' to her honored husband. She moved throughh her home life without jar or discord, holding the affections, enjoy- ing the devotion of husband and children in the highest degree. Like a "ministering angel" Mrs. Harrison maintained trough her long and useful life, her relations to family and friends, binding them to her by ties as firm and lasting as they were strong and delicate. Lexington June 2d 1883 My dear old friend - Though overwhelmed by my affliction; yet I must turn to you - for you I am sure will mourn with me As I am too much bewildered to think, I therefore merely send you [an] two articles cut from the morning papers - The one gives a brief out-line of the terrible domestic afflictions which have befallen me - The other notices the action of the Bar & of the Court now in Session The light of my Home & of my life has gone out - I am wretched & desolate - all the world were it at my command, could not supply the loss to me - the one blow had filled my cup to overflow & then the 2d came - I felt that Providence had left me in my age - the 2d shock was so sudden & unexpected that for a time I was bewildered - but [*338*] [*J, A, Keller, FLORIST! No. 91 E. SIXTH STREET, Cut flowers, floral designs, buttonariers, tube roses, and in fact everything usually kept in all first-class greeneries. My prices will be found reasonable and in keeping with the times. Ladies are invited to call at my greenery and see for themselves. Don't fail to see my Marchael Neil Roses. J.A. KELLER. Orders can be left at Market House, stall No. 32, where I also have flowers for sale. J. A. K. may61m THE CHRISTIAN MOERLEIN BREWING COMPANY. WE WOULD RESPECTFULLY CALL ATTENTION TO THE FACT THAT WE HAVE AGAIN TAKEN THE FIRST PREMIUM AT THE CINCINNATI EXPOSITION 1882 OVER ALL COMPETITORS. THIS IS CERTAINLY A PROOF OF THE SUPERIOR EXCELLENCE OF OUR BRANDS BOTH AS TO OUR NATIONAL EXPORT BOTTLED BEER AND OUR UNEXCELLED BARREL & KEG BEER. PARTIES DESIROUS OF PROCURING AN EXTRA ARTICLE ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO GIVE US A TRIAL WE BEING CONVINCED THAT WE WILL GIVE FULL SATISFACTION. CINCINNATI. upon reflection, I felt & feel, that the 2d was intended by Providence as a relief against the overwhelming loss I had already sustained — My daughter had been ill for a 12 month — was a great sufferer & had she not been taken away would have been a great sufferer while she lived — I never saw any grown person so devoted to & so dependent on a Mother as she was — She moand for her Mother as a baby does — She must go to her Mother & Providence kindly took her to her Mother — I have an abiding faith & trust that she is now with her Mother — The two have met & embraced in that world [whether] where there is no sickness or sorrow & no separation — They sleep side by side in the same grave — May God have mercy on your old heart broken friend J O Harrison Though I have heard that you had left Washington yet I send this to your old address — it will no doubt be transmitted to youS. R. BOND, ATTORNEY AT LAW, Washington, D. D., June 19, 1883 Hon. Joseph Holt, Dear Sir: I am Agent of house 306- 2d St. S. E. The rear of the lot adjoins the rear of your lot, on which you are building house 209- C. St. S. E. On the rear of your lot, close to the division fence is a large hole where the water has washed the dirt into the backyard of 306- 2d St. your ground being the higher. To fill up the hole and put joists at the base of the fence so as to prevent the washing into the lot on 2d St. will cost $5 or $6 — according to estimate of my carpenter, and I write to inquire if you will pay half the expense of doing the work The fence now lets the water [*339*]and dirt through so as not only to make the 2d St yard very wet and dirty but to stop up the sewer into which it runs. It is a division fence and I think the cost of repairing and making it efficient shd be borne by the adjoining owners. Very Respectfully S R BondLaw Offices of S. M. MAGOFFIN, 104 E. THIRD STREET. St. Paul, Minn., June 20th 1883. Judge Joseph Holt. Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Mr. Johnson has written me from Superior that Mrs. Anderson got choice in the division of the land and took the N. 1/2. Shall I draw the partition deeds, or will you draw yours and forward it to me for execution and then I'll send mine to you? The conveyances from my father to me are a W. D. dated jan. 4, 1879 and a Q. C. D. (to be more certain about description) dated May 24, 1883. Very Truly Yours S. M. Magoffin. [*340*][*From Louisville Democrat*] Louisville June 23rd Hon. Joseph Holt, Dear friend, I do not know when I was as much chagrined with anything of the kind as with the announcement of the removal of Edgar Needham. I have no doubt that he is the best Internal Revenue Assessor in the Union. His great capacity no one questions. He is as honest & faithful a man in his duties as I have ever known. Of Capt. Trainor I knew nothing up to Sunday morning except his gathered services in the Louisville Legion. On Sunday afternoon I was hailed by one of the truest, most faithful and quiet Union men in this city, who informed me that no worse nomination could have been made than that of Capt. Trainor. He received appointments here because of his Union Services — He was dismissed from the U. S. Hail Boat Company's services because of drunkenness, as one of the principal owners in that line told me this morning, my informer being one of our truest men. Mr. Needham tried him as Assistant Assessor. He left that to take a position as Inspector under Major Speed, & commenced by borrowing money from the keepers of Bonded Whiskey warehouses, which would have been improper even if repaid next day, but this Union man of whom I have spoken, said to me, not a cent of it was ever [*341*] [*The telegram announcing the appointment of a successor to Edgar Needham, Esq., as United States assessor on Sunday morning was unexpected and more surprising news than any item the paper contained. Mr. Needham is a gentleman who, either in or out of office, has won the fullest confidence of the public. He is, we suppose, without doubt one of the most thorough in the discharge of his official duties of any connected with the revenue service in the United States. No complaint can be urged against him of official neglect. So in all his relations of life whether as a Christian, a citizen, or gentleman. It is true we have differed with Mr. Needham politically many long years. He took his stand eighteen years ago against slavery and bore the brunt of battle when it cost something for entertaining such opinions. Knowing the sincerity and honesty in his political views, the people of Louisville respected him for his candor, though widely differing with him as to his political policy. Under the administration of Mr. Lincoln Mr. Needham received his present appointment. He has filled it most satisfactorily to the people and to the Government. Then why this sudden and uncalled-for change? Is it to give place to one more acceptable politically - one more competent to the discharge of the official duties of the office, or is it, as we have heard, to further the interests of the "whisky ring?" We do not know that the man appointed could be manipulated to their uses - we hope he could not - but we are confident that Mr. Needham cannot be used or abused in the discharge of his official duties. Unless therefore the change was made in accordance with the old usage of "rotation in office," there is no sufficient reason as this particular juncture in turning out an excellent officer to make room for another. Had President Johnson made this change when he broke with the Radicals it would not have been unlooked for; but to make it now, on the close of official term, looks as if it had been done in the interest of some "ring" entirely unknown to our people, and without their knowledge or wish.*][*From Lousiville Democrat*] Louisville June 23rd Hon. Joseph Holt, Dear friend, I do not know when I was as much chagrined with anything of the kind as with the announcement of the removal of Edgar Needham. I have no doubt that he is the best Internal Revenue Assessor in the Union. His great capacity no one questions. He is as honest & faithful a man in his duties as I have ever known. Of Capt. Trainor I knew nothing up to Sunday morning except his gathered services in the Louisville Legion. On Sunday afternoon I was hailed by one of the truest, most faithful and quiet Union men in this city, who informed me that no worse nomination could have been made than that of Capt. Trainor. He received appointments here because of his Union Services — He was dismissed from the U. S. Hail Boat Company's services because of drunkenness, as one of the principal owners in that line told me this morning, my informer being one of our truest men. Mr. Needham tried him as Assistant Assessor. He left that to take a position as Inspector under Major Speed, & commenced by borrowing money from the keepers of Bonded Whiskey warehouses, which would have been improper even if repaid next day, but this Union man of whom I have spoken, said to me, not a cent of it was ever [*341*]was ever repaid, but that all went at the gambling tables, and that when reproved for it, he admitted his gambling, said he always had gambpled & always expected to do so. I find that these things [are] were well known to a large circle of Union men &, with all their disposition to stand by one another, they are chagrined & incensed with this appointment. The fact is: if the government wishes to collect Internal Revenue in this District, it would be, inevitably, a large loser by the removal of Mr Needham — I know that if I were put in his place, the government would be a great loser, through my incompetency. I am, very truly, as ever, yours, T. S. Bell.Legation of Japan, Washington. June 26, 1883. My dear Sir: You have doubtless seen in the papers the sentence of Maj. Wasson. From all I can learn the report is substantially correct. The papers are in the Secretary's hands. I saw him yesterday and inferred from his manner that he would give it speedy consideration. Unfortunately some of the most influential friends of Mr Bingham (including Mr Frelinghuysen) are not in the City. You are the only person who knows him and cares deeply for his [*342*]interests, and whose efforts will be of consequence, [of] to whom I can appeal. I hope, therefore, you will not think I am asking too much if I beg that you will see the President or the Secretary of War and do what you think best to avert a portion of the force of this terrible blow from poor Mr Bingham. Of course Wasson must be dismissed, but as two thirds of the Court joined in the recommendation for clemency, surely the imprisonment can be remitted. I feel certain that you will pardon the liberty I am taking in asking so much of you. I am speaking for one whom I love as a father, whose honorable career will be darkened, and whose life, I fear, will be shortened by this terrible misfortune. I know you will appreciate the motives of my appeal, and hope you may find it in your power to comply with my request. Believe me Yours very respectfully D. W. Stevens Genl. Jos. H. Holt U. S. A. &c &c &c P. S. I send you the pamphlet written by the Japanese Minister, and hope I may soon have the pleasure of introducing you to him. DWSJune 29th The top o' the morning to you, dear Mr Holt! We have a rainy top to-day, down here in this Happy Valley. The sunshine is tucked away behind the hills and left us the low-hanging clouds with the glistening shimmer of green things growing We like it best so, and wish you were here, to enjoy it with us. Dont you wish so too? We thought you'd be glad to know we are thinking about you, and talking [*343 -*]about you, and wishing for you. But Mrs Holt vows not to write you another line, Ah the vengeance of woman! So if you would know about it, you must learn from my poor scrawl. It is not necessary to tell you much, for you must know how almost every tree and flower is suggestive of the dear Uncle they all love so well. I've just come from the garden where I gathered a heartsease for you all sparkling with the dew and I might make you a fox-glove wreath, for I saw the blue things there Did you make them when you were a child? Mrs Holt is not well this morning. Reclining on her couch she is pale and beautiful. Little Mary is better but still quite sick. She is asleep now in her mother's room and Miss Bobbie is plying her industrious fingers on a bright new dress for her. Your sister is writing and little Rose is playing with a tiny new chicken and I am sitting in your room whose walls as you say are like the first flush of the morning. We shall drink to your health at dinner to-day and next week when I am far from hereI shall still wish I was drinking your health with this sweet family in this Happy Valley good bye Very affectionately M. Rose SpeedI send thee flowers that fade not. The glory of the Morning. Ferns and fringes that creep into the shadow. The Heartsease of the garden. The Columbine of the Wildwood. Daisies of the field and grasses of the meadow. All breathe a fragrance of thought that ever lingereth in my heart for thee. All bear with their beauty any love and God bless you. [*344*]For my dear Mr Holt from M. Rose Speed.Newcastle Ind. July 2nd 1883 Hon. Joseph Holt Washington D. C. Dear Sir I have just concluded the reading of the Memoir of the Hon. S. S. Prentiss in which I became much interested Have you any of your own speeches at the bar or are there any speeches at the bar of Prentiss or the Hon. Henry S. Foote published if so will you be kind enough to inform me where I can purchase any of them. Also I should like to purchase a good sized steel engraving of yourself - of Prentiss and of Mr. Foote and if you can inform me where I can make the purchases I shall feel grateful to you. The Speeches I want to read and the portraits I want to adorn the walls of my home — I would be glad to purchase a book entitled "The Casket of Reminiscences" written by Senator Foote, but our bookstores cant find it With very great esteem I am Yours Truly L. P. Mitchell Atty at Law Newcastle Indiana [*345*]John B. Manning, 6 WALL STREET, MEMBER of the NewYork Stock Exchange. New York July 2d 1883, I have the following first class investment securities for sale at prices named and interests: Rail-Road Bonds 50.00 on Albany and Susq. 7% due 1906 @ 123. 100.00 on Central of Georgia 7% 1893 @ 110'2 100.00 on Chi. Bur, and Quincy 7% 1903 @ 128. 100.00 on Do 5% 1913 @ 101. 100.00 on Chi. and No West Consol. 7% 1902 @ 123 50.00 on Chi. and Alton 1st 7% 1893 @ 119'2 100 on Chi. R. Island & Pac 1st 6% 1917 @ 123 34 100 on Chi. Mil & St Paul Consol 77. 1905 @ 120 12 50 on Clev. Cal, C & I, 1st 7%. 1899 @ 121 50 Clvd & Pittsbg 7% 1900 @ 122. 1 2 100 on Georgia R R & Bkg Co 6% 1910 @ 107. 100 on Michigan Cent. 1st 7% 1902 @ 123. 100 on Morris & Essex 1st 7% 1914 @ 135. 50 on New York Central 5% 1893 @ 103 3 4 100 on New York Cent & H Riv 7% 1903 @ 128. 100 on New York & Harlem 125 7% 1900 @ 127. 100 on N.Y. Lake Erie West. 1st [?] 7% 1920 @ 127. 100 on N.Y. N. Haven & Htfd. 4% 1903 @ 103 1 2 50 on Pacific R R of Mo 6% 1888 @ 105. 100 on Pittsbg & Wayne % C 1st 77. 1912 @ 136. 100 on So. Car. R. Way. 1st 6% 1920 @ 102 1 2 50 on Suspension Bridge & Erie Junction "Buffalo to Suspension Bridge" Guaranteed by Erie 1st 7% 1900 @ 109 State & City Bonds 100 on Alabama "A" 3 to 5%. @ 83. 100 on Dist. Columbia 3.65 @ 109. 100 on Georgia 64. 1899 @105 100 on D 7% Mtg. 1886 @104 3 4 50 on D 7% Gold "Quarterly" 1890 @ 114 1 2 100 on Missouri 6% 1886. 7 & 8. 108 @ 110. 50 on No Car. Extd . 6% 1919 @ 105 1 2 50 on D 4% 1910 @ 78 1 4 100 on New York Rate 6% 1891. -2. 1180 @ 120. 100 on Ohio 6% Dec 31. 1886 @ 108. 100 on Brooklyn Cnty 7% 1915 @ 145. 25 on Jersey City 7% 1892 @ 104 1 2 28 on New York City 6% 1901 & 2 @ 130. 10 on D 7% 1901 @ 140. Bank Stocks. 100 shs America @ 155. 100 " American Exchange @ 129. 50 " Bowery @ 157. 50 " Commerce @ 158. 100 " Merchants @ 129. 100 " Manhattan Co. @ 155. 100 " Mechanics @ 150. 50 " Metropolitan 2 157. 100 " Republic @ 136 50 " Park @ 165 I buy and sell for cash or on Margin @ 1/8 Commission all Securities dealt in at the New York Stock Exchange Awaiting your reply I am Yours Respectfully John B. Manning [*346*]Bloomfield July 6th 1883 [*[1883]*] Dear Cousin, I just received your letter and, was so glad, to hear from you again. When I wrote you thought it probable, I could join a party of friends and so forth for the summer, and visit you too - We failed to make up the party so had to give up the trip. I still think I will get to Washington [*347 347*]some day, and know I would enjoy a visit to you. Have just returned from a visit to two of Aunt Sallie Gibbs children in Tenn. Mrs Perse, and cousin George--Mr Perse is a good farmer near Union City and George a lawyer and doing well--I met some charming people. The country is so level such fine forests-- but, from the number of saw mills--and the fearful, waste of timber, it will soon be there as here without any. I sincerely rejoice to hear Vanda is so much improved. She ought to be, the happiest, of mortals, with restored health and, such a good uncle, as you have been to her--and a beautiful home, She has nothing more to wish for. I really think if bodies, would, spend more time in their yards, and gardens--there would be fewer invalids among them. I would love, so much to see your beautiful roses, they are the sweetest of all flowers to me-- Nannie is still here her health improvesvery slowly--Grand Ma continues very feeble--She sends so much love to you. Hope your health is better--We are always so glad to see you, so if you come to Ky. this fall dont pass us by. With much love to you affectionately Sallie J DorseyWashington July 7, 1883. Hon. J. Holt. My Dear Sir: Permit me to thank you from my heart of hearts for that charming present, which you were so good as to send me last evening. The engravings are exquisite, the binding elegant and the subjects of illustration the most interesting that could be selected for a student of the Bible. It will be not not only an ornament to my center table, but it is a book that I shall [*348*]love to study until the descriptions of all those places as well as the illustrations themselves are thoroughly impressed on my mind. For this present, as well as for all your many other contributions to my happiness in years past may the Father of Lights from whom cometh down every good and every perfect gift multiply all your blessings a thousand-fold and permit you to see in coming years, our own beloved land which you have done so much to save from anarchy and disunion, not sent by hostile factions and prostrate in the dust like the ancient kingdoms of the East, but firmly united in the bonds of peace, the Hope of the Nation, a resting-place for the weary and oppressed and the Joy of the whole Earth, Very Respectfully and truly Yours, J. B. Taylor.[*B*] Louisville Ky. July 8, 1883 Hon. Joseph Holt, My dear friend, Your very welcome letter reached me to day and was received with delight, even before I know its contents. I was so familiar with the chirography of the address that I perfectly knew the writer. My long silence is very improperly misconstrued, a form of misconstruction very, very unusual with you in any matter whatever, in supposing that it argues forgetfulness on my part. There is not a living memory that springs more constantly and spontaneously than that connected with you. I do not have to sound an alarm bell to call it into movement. How often do I wander back to 1832, when I first became acquainted with you, and call up the years of bliss connected [you] with you. We came into being on the same day, & the same year, and this, [*349*]of itself is a blissful memory to me. But how many more substantial, joy creating, invigorating reminiscences of fifty years crowd my mind, as I recal your many worthy deeds, both public and private. There are many earthly objects that are probably worth cherishing, that may possibly slip from the tablets of my memory, but I have no apprehension of any such sliding of anything connected with you. I can, and often do, recal the tones of your voice in uttering your thoughts, and what a panorama of light and beauty surrounds me as I do it. I often give to friends imperfect specimens of your speech in the prosecution of Lovett & Jones, and of old man Aulsebrook, that are very perfect to me because the living presence is before, but alas, they are very imperfect to those who have not that living presence. I very often repeople my mind with the glowing & illuminating thoughts that I heard you utter on a grand occasion, in depicting a love of country. How can I forget, the looks, the tones, the movements that accompanied those thoughts, which I am sure will live, while while I have life. How grandly those thoughts marched: "Next to the worship of the Father of us all, the deepest and grandest of human emotions in the love of the land that gave us birth. It is an enlargement and exaltation of all the tenderest and strongest sympathies of Kindred and of home. In all centuries and climes it has lived, and defied chains and dungeons and racks to crush it. It has strewed the earth with its monuments, and has shed undying lustre on a thousand fields on which it has battled. Through the night of ages, Thermopylae glows like some mountain peak on which the morning sun has risen, because twenty three hundred years ago, this hallowing passion touched its moral precipices and it crowning crags." How often di I think of the night, when in poverty and wretchedness, I first studied that story of Thermopylae as my history lesson. It fairly set my mind on fire that night, and it is never mentioned written my hearing, without a renewal of those fires. Think then how I felt, when your eloquence, on that grand occasion alluded, made it leap before me, a ball of living, glowing fire. How can memories thus kept alive, grow apathetic, sleepy, forgetful. One of the cherished debts I owe to mymemories of you, is near to trouble you unnecessarily. That accounts for my long silence, and very honestly accounts for it. I consider it one of the rarest beatified ments of my life, that first made me acquainted with you, and I hang on to it as a part of my existence, as a cherished existence. I am very sure that I resort to the pages of Hippocrates & Celsus with a zest that I never enjoyed before, because my studies ere of them are constantly enlivened by active memories of you, from whom I received those grand landmarks of the profession. Just think Mr. Holt: the City of Abydos was scourged every summer on one side, by devastating fevers. Hippocrates was sent for — he found a marshy condition on one side, had it filled so as to shed water, & from that time to the present, Abydos has been free from the scourge. He did not know what the poison was nor its laws but he recognised its source. Even when lecturing to the political classes when I mention these facts, your figure is always blended with that of Hippocrates. How would it be possible for me to forget you, when your name is imperishably embalmed in many, very many things & ways. Past 111 of the surgical history of gun-shot wounds of the war, has reached me, in excellent order. What a vast repertory it is, of things of the deepest interest and highest value. In going through it, the careful student & observer will often feel that he is reading Clinical Instruction of a very varied character, in the walks of vast hospitals; Myelitis, Osteo sarcoma, Hospital Gangrene, the ruinous wounded bones, & hundreds of other ills, stalk before us in vivid reality. This is a perfect treasure, the value of which grows upon us as we examine it. Words, more5 words, although Mirabean says they are things, are scarcely sufficient in potency for the expression of my thanks for this inestimable gift. I am very thankful that Otis has been able to devote his time & ability to this work. He has but few equals for labors of this kind. I am, very gratefully, & very truly Yours, T. S. Bell. P. S. I forgot to say that time is dealing very gently & kindly with me. I trust in his dealing with Mankind, he is equally as gentle with you. [*350*]Lexington, Ky. July 12 83 My dear Mr. Holt In the hush and awful stillness of my life, I separated from the world and all that once occupied and interested me, old wounds have opened and many buried griefs have come trooping back in ghostly procession, of them none has haunted me more persistently than that wretched passionate letter I wrote you and the circumstances which led to it. Thinking it over and over the thought has come to me with a shock at what may have been my blindness that the letter [*351*]to my sister coming under cover to me has a kindness from you intended to give me a gentle warning of some thing I ought to know I can not explain to you why at the sight of what seemed is mysterious a thousand miserable conjectures seized me making me unutterably wretched. When I carried the letter to my sister and asked the meaning she was sick and so painfully nervous & excited I could not press an explanation and [only] could only gather that it was about money, Some one had written to you. I fancied an anonymous letter. It was so strange, so unexpected I was bewildered overwhelmed and with out waiting for calmer thoughts wrote when my agony was sharpest I never saw any of the correspondence between my sister and yourself except that last kind letter of yours and never knew more, I make this most painful effort to write and venture to trouble you once more with my troubles in justice to one who by nature was very proud & very sweet to them long continued physical suffering had completely wrecked her nervous system and the mind at last was sicker than the body. Only too late did we ourselves fully understand.So sad were the last months of her life that in my grief I can find true comfort in the thought that troubled soul & heavy brain have found rest & peace. Of my grief for my tainted mother, my lonely patient old mother I can not speak. My father is much broken and very very feeble and oh so heavy. We try by tenderest care and love to reconcile him to earth a little longer. Seeing the past as I now do I thank you more than ever for what I believe to have been your wise kind thoughtfulness for my sister & for its with great regard I am if I may be Your friend Mary E. HarrisonLexington Ky July 14" 1883 My Dear Sir, I would not presume upon the wondrous friendship that exists between my Father & yourself to ask that which follows, save that for a woman wh is so rare, and so sweet, that just to think of her is to bless God. She, against my own wishes, is very anxious to obtain a position in one of the Government departments in Washington City — There are few things that I do of which I am afraid for my Father to know But the grand old Roman [*352*]is so feeble, after his great losses, that I know it would annoy him beyond description, to know that I had asked you to use your influence in the behalf of my Lady friend She is a superb woman pure, sweet, as I before expressed her to be — elegantly educated and thoroughly competent to fill any position that through your kindness she may obtain. She is so modest & has so much of character that I would not have her feel that she was indebted to either, Mr Bock or Mr Blackbun. As you know the distress that has to the department Lady Clerks by such a sense of obligation Again regretting that, I haveunder this pressure, to call upon you & to ask you how I shall proceed in the matter — and beseeching most earnestly that you will not mention this to your, old Friend my Father, I remain most Respectfully Albert M. Harrison State Auditors AgentSuperior, Douglas Co Wis July 17, 1883. Judge J. Holt, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir; Since I wrote you last I have been confined to my bed by severe illness and unable until now to attend to any business. I have secured for you what I consider the best half of the land — Please tell me if you have a middle name and what it is, also if you have a wife and if so, give me her name. I will then prepare a deed for you to execute to Mr. Magoffin, and will give him in exchange for one to you — that will settle the whole matter — then if you desire to sell, and I see any chance will let you know Yours truly Sarah B. Anderson [*353*]Louisville Ky. July 26*, 1883. Hon. Joseph Holt, my dear friend, Your letter received today was read with much pleasure, except the part that touched upon your visitations by rheumatism. I am wary to think that you should be afflicted in any way, but if I were permitted to make choice of afflictions for you, I should not choose rheumatism as the foe to remind you that you are [were] a mortal. The Apostle Paul describes various trials, and remarked that he had learned to be therein content. I wonder whether he over tried the growing, living as of rheumatism. It is questionable in my mind whether a man could be "content" with them. That is, could he be so contented, that he would not rejoice when they left him, with anything but "sweet memories of them". In the days of old George the Third, it was a very persistent disease, when it had once made a lodgement. Old Dr. Warren, the father of the author of "Ten thousand a year," was the Court Physician up to the time that old George was attacked with lunacy. Very frequently as Dr. Warren was walking the streets of London, he would see a carriage moving along to avoid, as much as possible, anything like jolting. "Often the carriage was stopped and its afflicted inmate would call out:"Doctor what is good for rheumatism," and the gruff old doctor, would consolingly reply: "Six weeks." I hope that when you have the malady upon you, or in you, that you resort to bicarbonate of potash, or lemon juice in order to rid the blood of some of its properties, which are very rife in rheumatism, to make [depo] deposits. I ardently trust that you may not have my trouble of the kind. Then I wrote [to] my recent letter I neglected to mention the early ligament that bound me to you. I presume that we were the only students of Charles Lamb, in this city, who appreciated the "Essays of Elia" as lessons of wisdom and light, conveyed in the most chaste and beautiful language. I well remember that fifty years ago, I heard your cordial expressions of admiration of the style, the excellence & chastening innocence of those Essays. You may remember that I expressed your copy of "Elia" to you at Vicksburg, you having forgotten it when you left Louisville. With such a delightful tie as this, do you think that Charles Lamb's memorable name [*354*]could spring before me, and very few are the days when it is absent from my memory, without inseparably connecting memories of the Hon. Joseph Holt with visions of Elia? These cherished memories often vividly intertwine themselves with each other, and I rejoice that they thus live, and that they often renew their youth. We have lived in eventful times. As I recall the historic events of our country, I have often thought, that there was nothing in the past, for which I would ever change the times in which I have lived. We no longer have our Jeffersons, our Madisons, our Jacksons, our Clays, our Websters, but we have feasted and lived on fruits they never tasted. I have now a firmer faith in our "government of a people, by the people, for the people" than I once had. I cherish the hope that it will [live] live for ages, the light and example to nations, a comfort to the oppressed, the beacon tower of hope to all that are weary & heavy laden. I have lived to see firmly established, what in my boyhood seemed to be the idlest of dreams. I told you in my letter, that I do not write to you oftener, because I disliked to intrude upon your privacy, or to trouble you. I now have a request to make of you, that may possibly put you to some trouble. I have a couple of lady-friends in Washington, to whom I wish to ask you to introduce your paintings and object of art. One of these ladies is a niece of Captain Z. M. Sherley, the wife of O.O. Steaty, the manager of the Washington affairs of the Courier-Journal, a gentleman of very decided ability. The other lady is her half-sister. I have requested Mr. Steaty to call to see you, to know whether it will be agreeable to you. I have furnished the ladies with notes of introduction. If you do not find it too irksome, I trust that you will confer on them the great pleasure. I shall be gratified to hear from you whenever your convenience will permit. I am, as ever, yours very truly T. S. Bell.Newport July 29th 1883 Hon Joseph Holt When your letter giving me so much desired information was received it found me very sick and I have but just recovered from that sickness Please alow me to thank you for so great a kindness upon your part for I have learned many things through you I might never have known in regard to my ancestors and also some things I supposed correct learned they were not in regard to Lord John Holt of England not being a [*355*]near relative to my ancestors I shall keep your letter for it is invaluable to me I cannot find out my Fathers age at death with any accuracy his name I gave you I believe With many thanks for your kindness I will close Very gratefully yours Mary E Holt Smith I hope some time to know more of my fathers history.Bloomfield July 31st 1883 Dear Cousin. The bees, have been exceedingly industrious, this season and, made a quantity of beautiful honey. We expressed a box to you Monday, for Grand Ma, which I hope you will enjoy. With much love to you from Grand Ma and the rest of us--I am affectionately Sallie I Dorsy [356]National Bank of Commerce in New York. July 31 1883 J Holt Washington DC We enclose herewith Check for $880. for Dividend on Stock this Bank standing in your name. Yours, respectfully, N W Sherman Cashier 24473 [*357*]Louisville Ky. August 3, 1883 My Dear friend, When I obtained my copy of the biography of Mr. Buchanan, I went to the literary editor of the Courier-Journal & requested permission to write the notice of the book. I send you a marked copy of the paper, by which you will see why I wished to write the notice, and the result of the application. But as newspapers often fail to reach their destination, I inclose the article. As ever, yours very truly, T. S. Bell. [*358*] LIFE OF JAMES BUCHANAN, fifteenth President of the United States, by George Ticknor Curtis, in two volumes; New York: Harper & Brothers, 1883. This needed biography appears at an opportune moment. There are few men in public service who have borne more contumely and abuse than Mr. Buchanan. He was a prominent man in the wild politics of the days of Jackson and Van Buren, and he was often made to carry some of their sins as well as his own. That which most troubled the peaceful movements of his political life was the Kansas and Nebraska troubles. Party rancor was at boiling point at the time, and it ebullitions affected Mr. Buchanan severely. Yet, we have no doubt that he honestly endeavored to do his duty under the Constitution and laws. He was far from being a bad man; he was not charged with being a corrupt one. He suffered, too, not a little from the Ostend circulars. The attempt to add Cuba to our territory inflamed a large portion of the public mind, and, fortunately, the effort at acquiring the island ended in failure. In addition to these evils, the culmination of the troubles of slavery and anti-slavery agitation were tending strongly toward the dreadful trial of civil war, and it was entirely beyond the power of Mr. Buchanan to sooth these violent and conflicting elements. That he was willing, nay anxious to do so, scarcely admits of question; this, however, was utterly beyond his strength. It is out of our power to give even a synopsis of a work involving the grave questions connected with the biography of such a man as President Buchanan. The author, Mr. Curtis, had a delicate and grave duty to perform in writing this biography. He has performed the duty with admirable judgment and great skill. The student of the work will rise from the duty with more reverence and respect for Mr. Buchanan, probably, than he felt for him before its perusal. There are very few men who have ever been more slandered. A great many of the calumnies were met and triumphantly refuted by the Hon. Jerey Black, Secretary of State in Mr. Buchanan's Cabinet. But in this biography they are perfectly exposed. One of these calumnies, published by Thurlow Weed in London Observer, is very fully met by triumphant testimony. Mr. Weed believed his informant, but his informant was greatly deceived, and had no thought of publicly starting such a grievous slander. The public press, greatly to his sorrow and chagrin, mixed up the name of the Hon. Joseph Holt with some of this vile stuff. Every friend of that eminent citizen will rejoice to see the clear and perfect manner in which he stands toward these calumnies. We have never known a man of more unsullied character. He is utterly incapable of a mean or ignoble thought. He is in all things the impersonation of truth, integrity and justice, and he is incapable of swerving a hair's breadth from either of these elements of a noble character. The reader will be delighted with these letters of the Hon. Joseph Holt, as they are found in this biography. And the Hon. Jerry Black is another of the great names that gave luster to the administration of Mr. Buchanan. In the first volume is a steel engraving of Mr. Buchanan, from the burin of John Sartain. The name of the artist sufficiently speaks of the excellence of the portrait. The second volume contains a full-length likeness of Mr. Buchanan when he was somewhat advanced in life. This is a very superior engraving, by J.C. Battre, of New York. We bespeak for this work the calm, patient and careful investigation of the American people. It treats of many of the most exciting scenes in American history, and George Ticknor Curtis has reason to be proud of the result of his labors. This work will add richly to his fame, great as that is. The book does credit to the press of the Harpers. Received through John P. Morton & Co.LIFE OF JAMES BUCHANAN, fifteenth President of the United States, by George Ticknor Curtis, in two volumes; New York: Harper & Brothers, 1883. This needed biography appears at an opportune moment. There are few men in public service who have borne more contumely and abuse than Mr. Buchanan. He was a prominent man in the wild politics of the days of Jackson and Van Buren, and he was often made to carry some of their sins as well as his own. That which most troubled the peaceful movements of his political life was the Kansas and Nebraska troubles. Party rancor was at boiling point at the time, and its ebullitions affected Mr. Buchanan severely. Yet, we have no doubt that he honestly endeavored to do his duty under the Constitution and laws. He was far from being a bad man; he was not charged with being a corrupt one. He suffered, too, not a little from the Ostend circulars. The attempt to add Cuba to our territory inflamed a large portion of the public mind, and, fortunately, the effort at acquiring the island ended in failure. In addition to these evils, the culmination of the troubles of slavery and anti-slavery agitation were tending strongly toward the dreadful trial of civil war, and it was entirely beyond the power of Mr. Buchanan to sooth these violent and conflicting elements. That he was willing, nay anxious to do so, scarcely admits of question; this, however, was utterly beyond his strength. It is out of our power to give even a synopsis of a work involving the grave questions connected with the biography of such a man as President Buchanan. The author, Mr. Curtis, had a delicate and grave duty to perform in writing this biography. He has performed the duty with admirable judgment and great skill. The student of the work will rise from the duty with more reverence and respect for Mr. Buchanan, probably, than he felt for him before its perusal. There are very few men who have ever been more slandered. A great many of the calumnies were met and triumphantly refuted by the Hon. Jerey Black, Secretary of State in Mr. Buchanan's Cabinet. But in this biography they are perfectly exposed. One of these calumnies, published by Thurlow Weed in the London Observer, is very fully met by triumphant testimony. Mr. Weed believed his informant, but his informant was greatly deceived, and had no thought of publicly starting such a grievous slander. The public press, greatly to his sorrow and chagrin, mixed up the name of the Hon. Joseph Holt with some of this vile stuff. Every friend [*Storrs brought with him 300 cravats. Cravats are his weakness (or may be hobby), the only one he possesses, and he glories in being the best cravated man in the world. He passed last summer in Europe and studied cravats; he has cravats of all nations, and judges the character of men by the style, fit and variety of their cravats. From this standpoint he makes observations and draws conclusions. He compares one nation with another by its cravats. He is a sound lawyer and his idiosyncracy, perhaps, has its foundation in the similarity of caveats and cravats. He argues from the cravat which encircles his throat. The tragic death of the Hon. Thomas Hoyne, of Chicago, has cast a gloom over his friends here. His rooms were engaged at the "Union," and the friend who parted company with him when their roads diverg-*]Superior, Douglas Co. Wis August 3. 1883. Judge J. Holt, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir; I enclose Deed for you to execute — I suggested to Mr. Johnson that as you had been badly used in the matter of timber on this land, you were entitled to [a] the choice in a division — he assented; I therefore took for you the north half — that being nearer town. Nothing therefore is left to be done, but for you to Quit Claim to Mr. Magoffin your half of the South half, and he to you, his half of the North half. Beriah Magoffin conveyed to Samuel M. Magoffin, by Warranty Deed, Jan'y 4. 1879 — recorded April 8th 79 P. of Deeds pages 187. 188. 189 [*359*]2 all his property in Superior. As this deed is of record, do you think it necessary for Mr. Magoffin to mention it in his deed to you? Please have two attesting witnesses, and acknowledge before a Notary with a seal. If you think the Deed is not drawn up properly — please draw up one to suit yourself, forward, and I will attend to it. So far I have incurred no expense and the service is trifling, so have no charges to make. It will probably cost .75 or $1.00 for recording deed — you might remit that am't. Yours truly Sarah B. Anderson. P. S. Many thanks for your kindly expressions of interest; I am quite well now. [*359a*]The Presidio, San Francisco, Aug. 7. 1883. Dear General. Many thanks for your letter and your kind expressions in regard to myself and the story in the "Overland". As this has amused you, I have sent you a copy of the May number, which contained the only other contribution I have made to the Magazine. The "Overland", owing to bad management in previous hands, [*360*]is quite without funds, and barely pays its way at present. So the editor, publisher and writers — all contribute their services gratuitously, in a patriotic spirit, in order that the Pacific Coast may not be without a literary magazine, as [an] a civilizing element. The editor, Miss Milicent W. Shinn, is a friend of mine; hence the contributions — which however were written several years ago. You must not think that in the "Seat under the Beeches", [I had] the intention was to be in the least autobiographical. I value your letter very much indeed, dear General, for there are a few people in Washington by whom I wish to be retained in affectionate remembrance, and by yourself most of all. I fear I have a very selfish feeling about Washington. I never fully realized how disagreeable and almost humiliating the official life had become to me till I had got well away and at this distance. For a long time I would not evenlook at the Washington papers which friends continued to send us — they smelt so of intrigue and low politics and commonness — it seemed infra dig to read them. In this direction, too, I have enjoyed the life in California — here we are so remote & distinct, that what happens in Washington & the East is scarcely regarded — scarcely affects us at all or interests us much; we are a separate2) empire of ourselves and can do without the old country. Still we love no less the dear & true friends we left behind and hope to see again. I enjoy too the climate — the absence of winter, the glowing perpetual sun of summer with never a drop of rain, the comparatively even temperature all the year round. I cannot [*361*]say I would like it always — the sound of a summer shower would be music now & then, if it could only be had — but, while it is new certainly, it is restful, and there is a good deal of comfort and comparatively little wear and tear in it. It is also a very interesting region, physically. I have taken a good many excursions — some on duty — in California & Arizona, and hope before long to take a run to Oregon & Washington. The Yosemite Calley of course I have visited, though Mrs. Winthrop was not strong enough to bear the journey with me there. We have also been to several agreeable places on the coast, & in the interior valleys. The Yosemite is surprising, but I have seen mountain valleys abroad. What has interested me more — most in fact — is the Forests of Pine & Cedar, with theirgroves of great "Redwoods," and still greater "Big Trees" so called — Sequoia Gigantea; the "Redwoods" being sequoia sempervirens, & therefore first cousins. The Redwoods are near at hand comparatively, in the Coast Range, both north & south of us. The Big Trees par excellence are in the Sierra Nevada. For bigness they stand alone in the world, and [you] when you see them you can only think of the Mammoths & Mastodons and pre-Adamite giant men —3/ their cotemporaries — whom they have survived. I can never see enough of these sequoias, of either species, and I have taken long rides and walks through the cool vistas made by their massive columns soaring up 300 feet into the blue sky. The pines & cedars, (& fir trees — which we call spruce at home,) are also immense, [*362*]and well worth a visit if there were no sequoias at all. Other trees also are exceptionally large, especially the Oak, the Madrono, (arbutus,) and the bay, or "laurel" as it is more commonly called here. There is a bay in front of our cottage at San Rafael, which is 40 feet in circumference at the base. We have abided as follows: Six weeks at the "Palace Hotel", (where (we felt we could not have endured another day,) — then during the winter in the Judge Advocate's cottage at the Presidio, where we were very fairly comfortable — then in May, to avoid the summer winds & mists, we took a cottage in San Rafael, 15 miles distant, where there is quite a different & a much milder climate. We shall return again to the Presidio probably in October. California does not suit Mrs. Winthrop — the average temperature is too cold for her — the social advantagesare not above mediocre, and she is separate from home, friends, her church her charities, all her interests. Still we have been happy here as we always are when we are together. I fear it is selfish in me to like California & to prefer it to any other place except perhaps the City of New York, for Mrs. Winthrop would consider it the greatest good fortune to return again to her old associations. But she is much better in health than when we first arrived, and we have had, and mean to have in the future, many larks & excursions together, and she will get all she can out of "Califorlornia" as she calls it, and stand it4/ like a philosopher, provided she does not have to stand it too long. I hope this, dear General, will find you enjoying your summer, and with your rheumatism better for the warm season. We often speak of you and want to see you; also General Dunn. Perhaps, if General [*363*]Pope takes command here in the fall, he will come out to see his son William. I wish I could see your pictures: we have seen scarcely any since we came here. Some of the bonanza millionaires have "galleries", but you can imagine what their pictures are. With love from Mrs. Winthrop and myself, I remain, dear General, yours as usual, W. Winthrop.Indianapolis, Ind., August 7th, 1883. Gen. Joseph Holt, U.S.A., Washington, D.C.-- Dear Sir: I write to ask permission to inscribe a small book to you. It is the result of a study--somewhat thorough--of the principle and doctrines of Expert Evidence I have been driven to write it, by what I conceive to be the persistent errors of our Supreme Court, of whose latest decision on the subject it is a review. It is by no means an exhaustive treatment of the subject; nor yet any thing like perfect even so far as it goes. But it is an earnest endeavor to clear a great subject, (and one of constantly increasing importance,) from the contradictions and nonsense that pervade our reports. In asking the favor I do ask, my motive is so far selfish as that I would have for my monograph [364]2 the protection of your name; and at the same time express my sincere appreciation of one whose public services and high character has made him to me an object the highest regard and deepest veneration. I am too old to worship any rising sun; and am, Dear General, Yours truly. J.W. Gordon. [364 1/2]Zurich Switzerland, Hotel Garni Aug 12. 1883. Dear Judge, I have not thought of my friends at home less often because I have so seldom written; but the great fatigue attendant upon these incessant journeys uses nearly all the vitality and strength. The voyage on the ocean was delightfully calm, with nothing to interest but sea and sky, as the passengers were nearly all foreigners returning home we had little sympathy in common. Many of them had accumulated a fortune in our land; and were going home to spend the remainder of their days. This made me feel that our country was not treated by them in a proper way, -but possibly I carry my love of my native land too far, for it pains me to see it treated with ingratitude. I landed at Bremen and remained there five days. The consul was very kind and gave me a great deal of information about "Northern Germany". Bremen is one of the largest commercial parts in the world. Her vessels float upon nearly all the manageable waters of the globe. The people or large numbers are very wealthy and all seem well to do. I saw nothing that looked like poverty, in fact I sawonly well=dressed people, the parlor of the hotel where I stayed was furnished at a cost of $27000, but I only remained one day after looking at my bill, feeling that humbler quarters were more befitting a republican form of Government. Our consul and his wife live there in luxurious ease, but he said it only cost him $250 per month. He volunteered this information after I left lest I should think our officials abroad lived beyond their means. Whilst I desire every comfort I have no ambition to pay the interest on the splendor which I can only enjoy for a night, and this only when I am asleep, for my hotel at most is only protection from the elements, and a place to find sufficient food to keep body and soul together. I have spent all the time so far, in Germany except the last three days. I don't like the dominions of Bismarck. The Germans on their own soil are the most dishonest and disagreeable people I have ever met. The same spirit that piled the stones on the tops of the mountains creating the ruins of the feudal castles reigns today, 'might is right" when dealing with anything weaker than themselves. If possible the Rail Road officials are worse than the landlords. One can make no calculating as to expenses, and you therefore suffer constant fear that you may be left at any time to their mercy. This hurried me away from Germany. I recalled what you told me about the way strangers were treated as to extortion The railroad officials called my five mark pieces of silver only two marks, and in making change would only allow me one third or less of what belonged to me. They thought one a woman unacquainted with the language, and therefore without redress. It is not safe for a woman to travel alone in this country under such circumstances. I stayed in Homberg one night. I arrived there between 4 oclock and 5. PM. After changing my travelling dress, and taking a little rest, I attempted to go out of my room where to my horror and consternation I found myself securely fastened in. The key would apparently under the door, but the door would not open, _ and this too in a hotel exactly opposite the "Kurhaus" which you know is the trendiest building in Homberg. It is where the gambling used to take place. It is also the entrance to the grove where the medicinal springs are found. I first examined the room thoroughly to see if there were any indications of trap doors or hidden springs. I examined the one solitary window and found there was no escape in that direction as one pane only could be made to open. I then sat down and made up my mind to use the most available piece of furniture to break the window dash, and then throw pillows and all other movable articles into the street. Of course I would have been [for] as a lunatic; butthat would be better than the fate I feared, besides the consul was to join me from Frankfurt at seven o clock in the evening at the Kurhaus, where a grand reception was to take place. The place was so full of strangers that he could not tell me where to go. Consequently I had to find a room and join him afterwards. He offered to go down [to] from Frankfort with me as it is only an hour on the train, but I would not permit the trouble. To make the story short a stranger passing that way found there was something wrong and got the door opened. It was said that a new housekeeper [passing] going that way, and not knowing the room was occupied had fastened it. I don't believe this explanation. I shall always feel some wrong was meditated. I left Germany the next morning. I told the Consul that nothing would induce me to stay an hour longer then I could get away. After a short stay in Basel the home of the Swiss Minister I came here where I am enjoying that perfect peace that casteth out all fear, _ a feeling I have not had before since I left my own home. I said I had no pleasant days in Germany. I should have said one. The day I spent in Heidelberg roaming over the old castle, and the University. I saw many of the students fearfully scarred from being slashed with each others swords in their almost daily duels. I was told that one of the students had just had his nose cut off. These fighting students are mostly Prussian and German. I saw very few works of Art as I did not go to Leipsic, Dresden or Berlin. I may go there, yet but I think I will see Art enough in other places where humanity is more kind. I like Zurich very much. Day before yesterday I dined with the Consul who is and old acquaintance. Yesterday I spent on the Lake. One day at the Exposition which I enjoyed exceedingly. But I will write you soon again. With warmest regards. Sincerely Your Friend Emily E. Briggs.POST OFFICE DEPARTMENT, OFFICE OF THE POSTMASTER GENERAL, WASHINGTON, D. C. Sept. 7, 1883. Hon. Joseph Holt, Washington, D. C. Dear Sir: Several weeks ago I called on you to make inquiry about a house on C street southeast, between 2nd and 3rd streets, recently purchased and reconstructed by you. I was informed on that occasion that you had not decided the amount of rent you would charge, [*367*]nor to whom you would rent it. You also told me that it would be well for me to call again, when the house should have been completed. That time, I believe, has arrived. Instead of calling, as you requested me to do, I have taken the liberty of writing, to ascertain whether you can let me have the house, and if you can, upon what terms. Very Respectfully, R. S. Boswell Stenographer to the P. M. Genl.Washington Sept. 19, 1883. Hon. Joseph Holt, My Dear Sir: The autograph edition of the complete books of Charles Sumner now adorn the shelves of my parlor library — thanks to your noble generosity. Whatever opinion we may justly entertain with regard to the public course of Mr. Sumner after he had become [*368*]embittered against Gen. Grant and leading supporters of his Administration we cannot, I think be insensible to the value of his services to Humanity and his Country during the greater part of his long and eventful career; and no unprejudiced mind in my humble opinion, can fail to find much of interest and benefit in the perusal of his writings. In all this I believe that you and I are fully agreed. When you, "the man without a heart," first kindly intimated your purpose to present me with that sumptuous edition of his works, I felt that I ought to decline it To say nothing of their cost, it seemed as if by accepting them, I should be depriving you of the opportunity and pleasure of sometimes consulting their pages as well as of the satisfaction of having books of such luxurious binding in your library. To my great surpriseyou, "the man without a heart", brought them with your own hands and insisted that I should remove them from the basket. I did not dare to disobey, so all that I can do is to thank you again and say that they are now as fully yours to all intents and purposes as when they were in your own home I have read that article in the "Press" and the interview of a Star Reporterwith you to-day, so one of course will believe a word of that ridiculous stuff that Thompson got off, and I think you do well to take no notice of it. I liked the spirit of the article in the Star. Those noble tributes to the loyalty of your associate Judge Black and of President Buchanan are worthy of your heart I believe you could write a letter to-day on those times that tried men's souls, of which you [*369*]was magna pars, that would fairly electrify the country. I will return that copy of the "Press" you left with me and the article clipped from a former number in a few days. Very truly and gratefully Yours, J. B. Taylor.The Philadelphia Press. CHARLES EMORY SMITH, Editor and Directing Manager. THE PRESS CO., LIMITED, Proprietors. Philadelphia, Sept. 19 1883 My dear sir: Your letter of yesterday is rec'd. The Press will be glad to print any reply you may make to the recent statements of Jacob Thompson concerning yourself. Even before the interview with Mr. Thompson appeared, it was the purpose of The Press to have Col. Frank A. Burr call upon you in reference to questions connected with Mr. Buchanan's Cabinet. It is his expectation now to go to Washington to-morrow with the hope of seeing you, and, after conferring with him you can judge whether your reply had better be made through the medium of an interview or in the form of a letter over you own signature. I am sure it is in your power to make statements which would be notably of universal public [*370-1*]interest, but of great historical value, and I hope you will feel free to do so. I have the honor to be Very truly yours Chas Emory Smith Hon. Joseph Holt.West Newton, Mass. Sept. 24, 1883. My Dear Sir: Your letter of the 23d inst. is received. In answer I have the honor to say that I attended the funeral of Gov. Brown at the President's House and I am confident you were also there with the other members of President Buchanan's Cabinet. Were I at home I could readily give the day and date of the funeral. Very truly yours Horatio King Hon. Joseph Holt, Washington, D. C. [*372*]West Newton, Sept. 24. '83 My Dear Sir: I have only time to write the foregoing before running to get my letter into the mail at 7 1/2 p. m. I have the Star which giving an account of the absurd and outrageous talk of Jake Thomson Please send me what ever you may write and much oblige Yours truly Horatio King Hon. Jos. Holt Washington D CLouisville Ky. September 24─1883. Hon. Joseph Holt, Dear Friend: My grandson, Harry H. Bell, the bearer of this, to whom I once introduced you at the Louisville Hotel, visits Washington on business connected with his employment. He is a deputy collector of Internal Revenue. He is capable, faithful and honest in the discharge of duty. May I ask of you the great favor to accompany him to the Commissions of Internal Revenue, to whom he has letters? He is young, inexperienced in the ways of Washington, and will be better with a helping hand, than without it. I am, as ever, very truly yours, T. S. Bell. [*373*]