Staunton spectator. [volume] (Staunton, Va.) 1849-1896, 1889-02-27
Now and Then.

Never before in the history of the coun-
try was there so much of personal schem-
ing and constant pressure brought TO bear
upon Presidentelect in the appointment
of Cabinet Ministers as has taken place
since General Harrison had to consider that
matter. The methods which have pre-
vailed almost debar the President from the
exerci Sc of his own will or the considers
ton of the great interests, and peace and
prosperity of the country, for which, in
history, be will be held responsible.
The contrast of the present with
the earlier usages in calling citizens Of
the Republic to preside over the Executive
Departments of the Government is SO great
that it will require the direct disapprova
of the people to insure return to the bet.
ter methods and q complete integrity Of
purpose. Knowing that our aged towns
man, Hon. Alex. Fl. Fl. Stuart, an eminent
statesman who served his country in the
Cabinet when Mr.. Fillmore was President
held distinctive views of executive action
under all phases of responsibility, as well al
on every important trust confded by the
people to their representatives in office
we sought brief interview with hin
which revealed the fact that he had beer
rejecting on the matters to which we have
adverted.
1t needs no announcement at this day tt
81 oa,,pk,z,,oo, &c NJ Gtuort RI lyc
known his views upon any question which
has been before the public, and therefore
unnecessary to go over recital of his senti
ments expressed now. They would, il
that were possible, endear his name still
more in the affections CT the people. Ii
his library are many souvenirs of his long
public service. We observed among then
the letter of the great Webster, Secretary
of State, who, by direction of Mr.. Fillmore
the President, and in consonance with bis
own appreciation of Mr.. Stuart, as we'll as
that of his colleagues in the administra
ton, invited him to association in directing
the government of the country. We pub.
lish it as an illustration of the manner in
which merit and ability were then sought
for the discharge of the duties of high
station, and to remind our people that the
| methods in such matters were not prac
ticed then as they are now.
WASHINGTON, September, 1860.
To the Hon. Alexander Il. Il. Stuart:
MY DEAR SIR,-I am directed by the
President of the United States to apprise
you that it is his wish to nominate you to
The Senate for the Office of Secretary of the
Department of the Interior. He deems it
important, however. that no steps should
be taken on so important a subject without
first acquainting himself with your wishes
and incllnations. To ascertain these is the
object of this letter, which l transmit By a
messenger of the Department of State,
with directions that if not found at your
own residence, he proceed Immediately to
the place where you are supposed to be,
and there to receive your answer.
Let me assure you, ny dear sir. that it is
not only the sincere wish Of the President,
but also of all those whom, ON such an oc-
should not decline this offel. We all de.
sire your efficient aid and cooperation in
the Executive Councils of the Government,
at this important crisis. The President
hopes that you will be able to repair to
your post at an early day, the earlier the
better, as the place. has been sometime
vacant and a competent discharge of its
duties is especially desirable during the
present session of Congress; after that, per-
haps, some little interval might be in
dulged without detriment TO the public H.
terest. The bearer of this is confidential.
If you please to signify your acquiescence
in the Presidents wishes TO him, he will
telegraph this Department, on his return,
as soon as he reaches q Geographic station.
trust, my dear sir. that both the messen-
ger and the wires will bring us the agree.
able intelligence of your acceptance.
Very cordially yours.
DANL WEBSTER.