Adam Badeau, Grant in peace: from Appomattox to Mount McGregor, a personal memoir

[538] him. The President has spoken in the kindest terms of you, and suggested himself, before I mentioned it, the Italian Mission. I would suggest that you go in to see him in his office hours and say that you would not take up his time now, but if he would name a time you would like to call when he could give you a few minutes. Of course you are at liberty to use any letter or saying of mine.

Old Mr. Hamilton was in to see me a few days ago. He had just finished reading your book and was in extasies over it. He had not one word of unfavorable comment.

The Appletons have not yet sent an Agent to me.—I hope you may be speedily relieved from your suspense by Presidential action.

Very Truly Yours,

U. S. Grant.

Letter no. Seventy-two.

There were some conversations between Mr. George Jones and several of my friends, at this time, in regard to my joining the staff of the New York Times, which will explain the concluding sentences of this letter.

New York City, Feb'y 16th, 1882.

Dear Badeau,—I have your letter of yesterday, and received in time yours of a few days ago. I think there is no doubt but the President is disposed to do something for you. But, to this time, he has seemed averse to making any removals no matter how offensive the parties in place have been to him and his friends. I hope this will not continue. Exactly what to suggest I am at loss to think of. Something in Washington would suit your purpose of writing the volume you speak of better than elsewhere. But what is there of sufficient dignity and compensation that would give you the time. I have no doubt but they would be glad to give you the place vacated—or to be vacated by young Blaine. If that would do suggest it to the Sec. or Asst. Sec. and no doubt it