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its determination to repossess and protect the government fortifications, custom-houses, and other property in the seceding States.
The loyal people had sprung to arms, and war, bloody and determined, was now certain.
The battle of Bull Run, the retirement of the superannuated lieutenant-general, the resignation of Simon Cameron, the appointment of Edwin M. Stanton as Secretary of War, and the assignment of General McClellan to the command of the army had all followed rapidly.
Dana's acquaintance with the leading men in all sections of the country was both intimate and extensive.
He corresponded upon occasions with many of them, especially when he wished to assure himself in regard to matters of party policy and management.
Among the most important men of the day was Senator Chase, of Ohio, who had been a Free-soiler from the start, and was regarded by many as the best man in the country for president.
As one of the defeated candidates for the nomination, his name was necessarily in the list of eligibles for an important cabinet position.
The Tribune, with the rest of the Republican journals, naturally brought forward his claims, but not content with that, Dana wrote him, immediately after the election, a personal letter urging him to give the matter favorable consideration.
The Senator replied as follows:
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