proved his ability and desire to conduct the Department on the strictest business principles and in the interests of no person? Or, if you do not see fit to appoint him, could not a man of the same ability and principles be found?
I see by the papers that you are to take the oath of office at the White House on Sunday. Is that to preclude a public ceremony at which your inaugural is to be delivered? I hope the country will not lose the latter.
P.S. This moment I receive your letter of the 27th. I guessed right and am glad I did not start yesterday. I may hope, then, if you desire me in Washington, to have a despatch in New York.
FROM SAMUEL BOWLES
My dear Schurz: I am just tickled clear through that you have gone to the head at last. I was terribly afraid it would not be, and have been exhorting in public and private this last month.
The Louisiana steal is a dreadful one, but if the Republican party can follow President Jackson's example and get religion, they may yet cheat the devil!—Yours very cordially.
FROM FREDERICK BILLINGS
| New York, Brevoort House. |
| Mar. 7, 1877. |
I can hardly believe my eyes! The reform-element square at the front and you in the Cabinet! What a Reformation! I cannot help congratulating you—and, much more, congratulating the country. Now, for a resolute Forward!—in the spirit of the inaugural—and in harmony with the Cabinet, and the better days of the Republic are close at hand.
