n Congress had
proven his zeal in the performance of public duty, and his fitness for
Vice-President was recognised then as it was eight years later when he
became the running mate of Benjamin Harrison. Upon his nomination,
therefore, Garfield, before the convention had recessed, sent word by
Dennison that he desired Morton nominated for second place. Morton,
answering that his nomination must not be made without previous
consultation with his associates, immediately informed Conkling of
Garfield's desire. Conkling replied, "If you think the ticket will be
elected; if you think you will be happy in the association, accept."
To this Morton answered, "I have more confidence in your judgment than
in my own." Conkling then added: "Governor Boutwell of Massachusetts
is a great friend of yours. Why don't you talk with him?" Acting upon
this suggestion Morton sought Boutwell, who advised against it. Morton
acquiesced and refused the use of his name.[1699]

[Footnote 1699: Mr. Morton's letter to the author, dated September 14,
1908.]

After returning to their headquarters at the hotel the Stalwarts, upon
the suggestion and insistence of George H. Sharpe, quickly agreed upon
Chester A. Arthur, who gave an affirmative response to their appeal.
Conkling was not present at the time, but subsequently in Arthur's
room, where Howard Carroll and several other delegates lingered, he
bitterly opposed placing a Stalwart upon the ticket and expressed in
unmeasured terms his disapprobation of Arthur's acceptance.[1700] On
their way to the convention Sharpe told Woodford of the pungent
flavour of Conkling's invective, and of Arthur's calm assertion of the
propriety of his action. At the wigwam Conkling refused Sharpe's
request to place Arthur in nomination.[1701]

[Footnote 1700: Letter of Howard Carroll to the author, dated October
15, 1908.]

[Footnote 1701: Interview of author with General Woodford.]

Upon the reassembling of the convention California presented Elihu B.
Washburne for Vice-President, a nomination which Dennis McCarthy of
New York, amidst cordial and hearty applause from the galleries,
seconded in a forceful speech. This indicated that Arthur was _persona
non grata_ to the anti-Grant delegates of the Empire State. Jewell of
Connecticut, Ferry of Michigan, Settle of North Carolina, and Maynard
of Tennessee, were likewise presented. As the call of States proceeded
New York made no response in its turn, but when Woodford