COLUMBUS, OHIO, February 16, 1870.
DEAR LEE: — Your note came during my absence north. A note to Delano from me, if my friends at Cincinnati are well informed, would do you more harm than good. But I send you a note, not addressed, in general but strong terms. I do not feel like interfering with Colonel Powell, and do not wish the note used to procure his removal. But I doubt the wisdom of your using it at all with Mr. Delano.
Delaware, Ohio.
Captain A. E. Lee, of Delaware, Ohio, is a gentleman whose ability, integrity, and business experience fit him to fill with acceptance and creditably to the Administration any revenue office he is likely to desire. He has a capital record as a soldier, is a Republican whose soundness and effective work are beyond commendation. No worthier appointment could be made.
R. B. HAYES.
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 3, pp. 88-9
