Page:Speeches, correspondence and political papers of Carl Schurz, Volume 5.djvu/41

Rh Conference in re Samoa would have been now progressing or even probably the matter settled. As it is, Harrison (Blaine! alas!) must appoint the American envoys—but I do not see how they can fail to follow the lines of the protocols as stated by me.

I will see that you receive the full text of the Sackville incident which is delayed in the printing office. I inclose, however, a copy of my last note on the subject which states the reason for my action and the attitude of the United States on the important question.

When you have received the entire case (and it is not long) I will be greatly obliged to you for your candid judgment. I am sure that no two men better agree than you and I in the dogma, that, frame society as you will, personal honor and good faith will be the secure corner-stone of human intercourse. With this postulate how can a defense be made or [there be] any hesitation to condemn Sackville in his conduct? I agree that American politics has foul spots and shameful features, but so has every political theater, but honest and honorable men have nothing to do with such evil features.

Good-by. I have written more than I intended, but I seldom have the chance to write to you.

Ever, dear Schurz, yours sincerely. 



You can and must congratulate me that I am relieved from the post of duty I have held for four years.

It is difficult to let any one who was not a daily witness comprehend the temper and method in which the Republican managers of the Senate have dealt with public business wherever the State Department has been concerned. I have closed four years of service without one word of amity, of ordinary courtesy, much less of coöperation or assistance from any Republican member of the Committee on Foreign Relations.