and inveterate letter-writers
within my experience. From the time I was Governor of Illinois,
and even before that, and almost to the time of his death, he wrote
me at great length upon every conceivable public question. His
letters were always interesting, but as he did not avail himself
of a stenographer, and as he wrote a very difficult hand to read,
they became at times a trifle tiresome. I have retained a large
number of his letters, and as they are so characteristic of the
man I venture to quote a few of them.

"The Chicago Tribune, Editorial Rooms.
"_Feb. 6, 1887_.

"Hon. S. M. Cullom,

"Dear Sir:--

"Well, he signed the bill, and it out of the woods. All right so
far. His signing it shows that he is a candidate for a second
term. That was the test. The next thing is the composition of
the Board of Commissioners. The successful working of the law
depends upon the action of the Board. There is an impression that
he will probably let you name one of the commissioners and Reagan
another. If that be so, let me suggest among other names Mr. C.
M. Wicker, manager Chicago Freight Bureau, for the position. You
probably know him. He has had large experience in freighting, and
is widely known to both shippers and railroad men, and is well
liked. He is a friend of the law, and supported it vigorously
while before Congress, writing some good letters in its explanation
and defence for _The Tribune_. He is a sound Republican though
not much of a politician. You may find other and better men to
recommend, but I don't think of any belonging to this State at this
moment. I hear Judge Cooley's name mentioned. He is of course a
first-class A No. 1 man, but I write on the hypothesis that your
preference will be for an Illinois man if you are allowed to have
a say in it.

"The passage of the bill is a great triumph for you, if the bill
works well. People always judge of measures by their effect; hence
the act should have fair play.

"Now that it is safely in the shape of a law, I thought _The Tribune_
might indulge in a little horn-blowing as per enclosed article,

"Yours truly,
"(Signed) J. Medill."

"Hotel Ponce de Leon,
"St. Augustine, Fla.,
"_March 13, 1888_.

"Hon. S. M. Cullom,

"My dear Sir:--

"I have just received your favor of 9 inst. and confess that I am
taken a little by surprise. I had got the impression from various
quarters that you did not desire to secure the I