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The Charles P. McIlvaine letters were written in the 18th and 19th century and therefore may contain language that we understand today as harmful or offensive. You may encounter paternalist descriptions of Native Americans, racial slurs, or sexism. For more information, see our policy page.
Description
Requests McIlvaine to give him letter of introduction to Chase. Has no political favors to ask - just wants to help. Has some ideas on how to stop speculation on gold market. Notes that many try and succeed in getting advance information.
ISBN
KMcI 640114
Date
1-14-1864
Keywords
letter, Norwood, McIlvaine, Chase, Civil War
Recommended Citation
Norwood, A G., "Letter to C. P. McIlvaine" (1864). Charles Pettit McIlvaine Letters. 90.
https://digital.kenyon.edu/mcilvaine_letters/90
Rights Statement
Transcript
New York, 14th Jany. 1864
My dear Friend
I am desirous of becoming acquainted with your friend Mr. Chase, and I write now for the purpose of soliciting from you such a letter of introduction to him, as will ensure a speedy interview in case I conclude to visit Washington.
I have no political or other end in view save the satisfaction of seeing and talking with him upon topics of general interest. It may be in my power to give him some practical hints upon matters, that I know would be of interest to him at the present time, when the premium on Gold, must be subject of no little anxiety to the Administration of the National finances. Indeed, I am aware, that he has lately been engaged in digesting some legislative place to check the speculations in the precious metals. There are other matters about which, I should like to converse frankly with him, and with no view whatever, but to [?] and his plans. I apprehend that one great difficulty the Secy. meets with, is the selfish motives that underlie all [?] [wh?] he finds it desirable to consult.
In the enormous issues which the Govt has been compeld to make, would it be a matter of wonder, if heavy fraud and gross violations of confidence should hereafter come to light? It seems to me as if a large portion of our people were absolutely besotted with a spirit of reckless and insane speculation, and does it not behoove the govt to watch with jealous ^ interest ^ all its subordinates, even to the most remote degree. No innocent party can know that such things do exist, but there are peculiarities incident to the present state of things that may ? the minds of business men, and make them apprehensive that there may be [secret springs] at work, that sooner or later may [snap] and bring not only disaster, but official disgrace.
I have no favor or information to seek for myself or for others at the hands of Govt. But, if I can contribute directly or indirectly towards its prosperous [?] the humbled mite, I shall consider myself most happy.
Mrs. Norwood + our children join in affectionate remembrance [?] yourself and family.
Very sincerely yours,
A.G.Norwood