Fox called on me
last evening and unexpectedly bade me farewell. Said he would not trust himself
to call at the Department to-day. He was very much affected, said words were
wanting to express his high respect and admiration for me and the qualities
which I possessed for the position which I filled. Spoke of over five years'
intercourse, during which there had not been one unpleasant word, nor, as he
was aware, an unpleasant thought between us. I have not time now to speak of F.
and his qualities, but shall do so. He has been useful to the country and to
me, relieving me of many labors and defending me, I believe, always. His manner
and ways have sometimes given offense to others, but he is patriotic and true.
The President and
his Cabinet were serenaded this evening. I am opposed to these methods of
calling out public men; have respectfully suggested to both Presidents Lincoln
and Johnson that it was not advisable to address gatherings at such times, and
was determined not to break over the rule myself. I had, therefore, given the
subject no attention and was embarrassed when a crowd of perhaps a thousand
appeared before my door with a band of music. Declining to make remarks, I
stated that I approved the policy of the Administration and was for the union
of the States and the rights of the States.
I understand Stanton
read off a long address and McCulloch and Dennison each made speeches. The
latter acquitted himself with credit, and Stanton read his prepared address
from his door, a man standing each side of him with a lighted candle. Dennison
made a soothing speech for the party; said everything was lovely. Speed ran
away, and Harlan would not show himself.
SOURCE: Gideon
Welles, Diary of Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy Under Lincoln and
Johnson, Vol. 2: April 1, 1864 — December 31, 1866, p. 512-3
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