"Newport, on the Wing for Washington, D. C.,
"18 Oct., '85.
"My dear Mr. Tilden,—I thank you very much for the volumes of your writings, which you have been thoughtful enough of me to send me. I am one of those who have always held and constantly avowed the opinion that you were duly elected President of the United States; it would be instructive if some one well versed in our public law would look through the laws enacted in the period for which you were chosen, and mark such of them as would have encountered your veto. That should be done while you live to confirm the result of the inquiry.
"I remain, dear Mr. Tilden,
"Yours very truly,
"Geo. Bancroft."
S. J. TILDEN TO BANCROFT
"Greystone, Yonkers, N. Y., Oct. 21, '85.
"Dear Mr. Bancroft,—I have received, through Mr. Bigelow, your note acknowledging a copy of my Writings and Speeches edited by him.
"I observe that in your note to him, you mention that the copy sent you does not contain my autograph.
"If the idea that you would desire it had occurred to me, I should have been particular to add every homage of esteem and regard for you in my power.
"Very truly yours,
"S. J. Tilden."