He invited the conference with me and it was three hours long. The fact is not known among politicians at all. I have not written of it before to anybody; and I am anxious it should not get out.
By the way, that which I pressed upon Hayes in behalf of Bristow was the Davis vacancy on the Supreme Bench. One thing more I will say. I said to Hayes: “Governor, I have not concealed from you where my heart is in this matter, and now I want to say to you, it is for Schurz.” And now I will not conceal from you that I have misgivings. Blessed are they who expect nothing, for they shall not be disappointed.
FROM RUTHERFORD B. HAYES
| Executive Department, State of Ohio. | |
| Columbus, Feb. 25, 1877. |
I am just about to start for Fremont to stay over Sunday. I write hastily to return the enclosed letters and to say a few words. I do not, or have not desired to be committed on Cabinet appointments until the issue was reached. But it is perhaps proper to say that, if elected, it has for a long time been my wish to invite you to take a place in the Cabinet. I think it would be fortunate for the country, and especially so for myself, if you are one of the members of the Cabinet. I am not likely to change that opinion. The Interior Department is my preference for you. The Post-Office would come next. For State I hope to have Mr. Evarts, but have not consulted him. Mr. Sherman will probably take the Treasury. If nothing occurs to change my plans I expect to go to W[ashington] about Thursday next. All this is on the supposition that we are successful, and is to be strictly confidential.
TO RUTHERFORD B. HAYES
Yesterday I received your kind letter of the 24th [25th] inst. I shall not try to conceal from you that the terms in which you invite me to become a member of your
