JOHN C. THOMPSON TO TILDEN
"Boston, Mass., Dec. 25, '80.
"Dear Sir,—The night before Mr. James F. Starbuck, of Watertown, New York, deceased, he completed an article intended for the Albany Argus entitled 'Political Cowardice,' a copy of which (the original being retained by his family) I am requested by his daughter, Miss May Starbuck, to place in your hands, with the request that if upon perusal you recognize the power and logic of the intellect that penned the article, you will please forward the same to the Albany Argus for publication.
"I am the son-in-law of Mr. Starbuck. Will you do me the honor to acknowledge receipt of this and oblige, with great respect,
"Your obt. servant,
"John C. Thompson."