E. B. YOUMANS TO TILDEN
"Treasury Department, Office of the Chief Clerk,
"Washington, D. C., May 4th, 1886.
"Hon. Samuel J. Tilden, Greystone, Yonkers, N. Y.
"Dear Governor,—Agreeable to my promise, I write you regarding the present condition of the Secretary. He is recovering quite rapidly. He takes an interest in the affairs of the department; makes inquiries regarding the same; has interviews with various departmental officers. He seems to have retained his full mental vigor. He is not able as yet to walk freely, but it is expected that within a short time he will regain sufficient strength to enable him to go out upon the street without the aid of an attendant. It is proposed that as soon as he is able to walk that he visit some of the springs—White Sulphur Springs, if you please—and take a course of treatment, bathing, &c., after which, it is thought, that he will be able to take his vacation.
"In an interview I had with him, I stated what you had said regarding the yachting cruise, and what you would be pleased to do, &c., &c. He seemed very much delighted with the idea; said he was very fond of yachting, and thought he would enjoy it very much indeed. He said he had thought of taking a little cruise inspecting the light-houses along the Potomac, &c. I did not state to him what you said to me regarding the unhealthy condition of the Potomac, regarding which I agree with you. I think it would be much better for him if he could take the Hudson River and Sound, going as far east as New Bedford and Martha's Vineyard.
"With great respect, I remain,
"Very respectfully yours,
"E. B. Youmans."