The New York herald., 1879-12-30
A TALK WITH EX-GOVERNOR CURTIN.


EVERYTHING BUT AMERICAN PoILTICs-AN
ANEcDoTE OF HIS MINISTRY IN RUSSIA
There was gathering Of notahles at the New York
Hotel last evening. Gentlemen prominent in the
politics of fully eight States scattered about
the corridors sitting In the smoking rooms.
Prominent among them was Ex-Governor Curtin. of
Pennsylvania. who had arrived the night before.
Governor Curtin was In q chatty mood when ac-
costed by reporter OF the HERALD. but evinced
delightful coquettishness when the subject Of poll
tics was introduced. It was really matter of pain
full surprise to learn that the Governor knew little
Of the politics Of his native land and the pleasant
little smile he would give whom switching the con-
versation from the political situation to the
OF Russia thesands OF Africa was strangely sug-
gestive of his extended experience as diplomat.
"But, Governor" the reporter persisted. "what
do you think OF the Grant 'boomY"
''wen. / really do not know what to think. You
sec live good way back IN the country and we do
not always know as much as you oity people"
..Yes. Of course; but then Pennsylvania very
enthusiastic over his return"
''That is So His reception IN Philadelphis was
really magnificent. arrived there on the day Of
the parade. It was . splendid Affair.""
''Do you think he will be the next Presidentrs
The Governor smiled and drew long breath he
rSplied:-'I do not know. of course. whether he
he wants to be-
. ,ssBut-?"
eitirsly outside Of politics. It was not repubii.
can manifestation by any means"
well. then. Governor. what DO you think OF
"The affairs there are deplorable. indeed. But
think there Will be no bloodshed. They will not do
anything 20 foolish as to come TO blows. We Ameri-
arranging such difficulties. do not know great
deal about the affair except what read In the
HERALD. They will settle IL without bloodshed,
am sure: BY the way 1t Is extraordinary how the
nine hours from Philadeiphia and yet get the
HERALD about three o'clock on the day OF pub
"How do national politics appear - viewed from
WashingtonY'
II have not been to Washington much Of late.
candidate or the national candidate in my district
claims to have been elected by about votsss
ton ~ The evidence has All been placed before the
proper committee. and am now awaiting their de-
ctsion. 30 have not been to Washington much,
and of do not know great deal about matters
there"
..How about Russian affairs. Governor9 The
nhilistic movement seems to be very serious"
'Yes, that nihilist business Ia terrible thing.
The suspense and disorder are sapping the root Of
great deal Of trouble there speaking Russia
reminds me OF gentleman Of your paper met
when was there-Mr Macdahan-a very bright:
geutlemanly and talented man. He travelled good
deal with General Sherman and me. The poor fel-
low. / am told, died OF fever in Turkey. He
plc8boub
he achieved.
"ALExIs ARRIVED"
'And speaking Of that reminds me OF little incl
dent that occurred when was Minister to Russia.
You remember whom Duke Alexis came to
this country, he was Mt sea very long
time. The Russians are not very good sailors aud
there was much uneasincss felt. As the time went
on and nothing heard Of him tho suspense was
absolutely PAINFUL and at last the Emperor fully
convinced that he would mover see him again. OF
course this suspense and dread was known In New
York. and every effort was made by the Russian
government to obtain as early tidinGs as possible.
The entire court was plunged in grief. One day
whilo this feeling ut its height Russian officer
was dining with mo. He had just come from the
palace ana told me how painfully the Emperor was
affected. While were eating despatch WAS
handed me. which read as follows:--
Alexis has arrived
'.It WAS from tho HERALD. and showed II TO the
officer. He, OF course was overjoyed, and FASTENED
to the palace with the news. 1t was the frst news
the En- peror received. Notwithstanding the Russian
Minister and consuls all on the ssi vtre for In
formation. It hours ahead OF the news from
any other source, and the cause of many COM
plimcnts to the HERALD throughout Russia. 1 only
mention this incident showing the wonderful en-
terprise OF the American press"
Governor Curtin was here reminded or his dinner,
which nitOd him.