"The present I regard with fear and apprehension, and I have recently written to, and received an answer from, our inaugurated President, whose administration I heartily approve, and I now address the uninaugurated President to say one word of approval to him also.
"You should encourage, by word and deed, our President to hold fast to the pledges in the Democratic platform, to Civil Service especially.
"The times are trying the metal of our President. The army on whom the people rely for defence are greatly demoralized.
"The veterans are nearly all dead, the regulars are skirmishing for votes, and recruits are few.
"Pardon me for this rambling letter. Don't trouble yourself to answer me.
"The times, the time (Feb. 6"), all conspired to move me to write you.
"May you live to see many a birthday, as I hope to.
"With great respect, I am,
"Your friend and obt. svt.,
"Hiram Sibley."