"If your policy be one in the interest of peace, then a patriotic address to your countrymen would give you a noble immortality, preserve constitutional government, and restore the Democracy to power at the next election. Should such be your determination, meetings should be simultaneously held throughout the Republic, declare your election, but waive the administration of the government, and denounce the usurpers who seek to overthrow the Constitution.
"In conclusion, I have but to say, if the facts show that you are elected, for one I will stand by you, let the result be what it may.
"With great respect for your ability and entire confidence in your patriotism, I have the honor to subscribe myself,
"Your very obedient servant,
"George W. Morgan."
J. THOMAS SPRIGGS TO TILDEN
(SUBSTANCE OF A CONVERSATION WITH SENATOR CONKLING)
"Utica, Sunday, Nov. 19, 1876.
"President Tilden.
"My dear Sir,—I have had an hour's talk to-day with Senator Conkling, and I am happy to inform you he is sound as a bullet all through. He says of course he is desirous his party should succeed, but if it is expected he will consent to succeed by fraud they are mistaken. He is sound in all the questions that will arise, and means to act with his friends.
"He is devoting himself to the law, and means to act with our friends in the Senate.