“After mature reflection, I have determined to remain until after the election and do all I possibly can to secure the success of the Republican ticket by working until the polls close on the evening of November the 2d, and then leave on the morning of the 3d for San Francisco, and sail from thence in the Oceanic on the 18th.... By remaining and working I hope to induce others to vote for our mutual friend, James A. Garfield.”
These letters were sent to the New York Historical Society on September 17th and 20th:
“I am glad to hear that it is proposed to erect a monument to Nathan Hale. Many years ago I joined with others in such a memorial at Coventry, Conn., where he was born. But one ought to be erected in this city, and, if possible, on the very spot where he died. That spot you have, I understand, ascertained to be at or very near the armory of the Seventh Regiment. What an inspiration would a monument there be to our young soldiers! There ought to be inscribed on it his own immortal words: ‘I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country.’
“If the New York Historical Society will obtain permission to have a monument erected there, I will, with pleasure, bear the whole expense.”
“I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter 18th instant.
“Enclosed I send you a printed slip of an inscription which I propose to put upon the stone which marks the spot where Major André was executed, should the New York Historical Society decide to accept the same, as suggested by me in a verbal conversation with Mr. George H. Moore.”
This letter was received on September 30th:
“Cyrus W. Field, Esq, New York:
“Dear Sir,—A few of your neighbors and personal friends are desirous of meeting you in a social and informal way before you start upon your tour round the world. They will be glad if you will give them the pleasure of your company at dinner on some evening in the latter part of October. Tuesday, the 26th, is suggested as a suitable time; but if any other day will better comport with your convenience, you have only to name it. They are not willing you should go away without their greeting and God-speed.”