Davis' people are our people"; that "they are part and parcel of the American people and their opinion is part of the public opinion that guides the country." Mr. Davis' people would like to think so, but there are so many things that prove the contrary that they are unable to do it. They are in the Union, but not in its councils, therefore their opinion does not amount to anything at all and does not guide the country in any sense. The Southern people, however, are not deploring such a situation, and we would not refer to the matter were it not for the sake of keeping the record straight.
So far as the rather agreeable controversy between the News and Courier and Indianapolis News is concerned, it is a very trifling matter. The place of Jefferson Davis in history is perfectly secure, and it does not interest his people in the least whether or not his name is restored to the mutilated stone of "Cabin John Bridge."
["Confederate Ladies' Memorial Association" should read "Confederated Southern Memorial Association."—Editor's note.]
Charleston, S. C., 1 Meeting Street, Aug. 15, 1907.
My Dear Mrs. Behan:
Yours of July 31st, with enclosures, has been received, and I am very happy to serve on the committee in connection with "Cabin John Bridge" matter. I stand ready to do my share of the work, and whatever is assigned me I shall look after to the best of my ability. The enclosures put the matter before me very clearly, and I am sure that you will prove a wise and tactful leader of the undertaking. I want to remind you that in the original resolution there was some discussion, and that when it was passed it was with the understanding that we should ask to have the name restored with the dates and words, "Removed 1861, restored 1908," as there seemed to be a sentiment that these dates would be of historic value. Personally, I think they are, and if you remember, Mrs. Hayes took part in this discussion and thoroughly approved of the idea of the dates appearing in connection with the name. I just mention this so that you can know how to arrange matters with Mr. Meyer. I am sure you
