Congressman Rutherford B. Hayes to Sardis Birchard, February 28, 1866

WASHINGTON, D. C., February 28, 1866.

DEAR UNCLE: — I don't know whether I have written to you since the veto* or not. Many of our good men still hope that we may retain the President, but it is a very faint hope, scarcely more than a wish that he may return "to the bosom of his family," as Lucy says. The general impression is, however, that Rebel influences are now ruling the White House and that the sooner Johnson is clear over, the better for us. Almost all are for going forward with business and measures in the usual and proper way without excitement or abuse.

We had a pleasant excursion on Saturday to the Naval Academy at Annapolis, which was in every way enjoyable. At the old capitol of Maryland and the academy, there was an abundance to see and the company was good. Lucy expects to leave this week.

Yours,

R. B. HAYES.

S. BIRCHARD.

_______________

* Of "An Act to establish a Bureau for the Relief of Freedmen, Refugees, and Abandoned Lands."

SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 3, p. 18

Congressman Rutherford B. Hayes to Lucy Webb Hayes, April 8, 1866

WASHINGTON, April 8, 1866.

MY DEAR DARLING:— The last week is the only one since you left that you would have enjoyed here particularly. The Connecticut election early in the week was an enjoyable thing. The passage of the Civil Rights Bill in the Senate over the veto was a most exciting and delightful thing-such enthusiasm was manifested. Things have improved here. The general feeling is hopeful, loyal, and patriotic. A great change from that [of February] 22nd, when treason crept out an d triumphed. The next thing was the great party at Grant's the night of the passage of the Civil Rights Bill. All our side was there in great spirits, Trumbull, Stevens, and all. The President stood between General and Mrs. Grant. Vice-President (Rebel) Stephens stood near. Montgomery Blair, etc., etc. Old Thad shook hands cordially with Andy. Andy presented him to Mrs. Grant. It was the happiest gathering I have seen. Andy looked and behaved very well indeed.

R.

Judge Kelley introduced me to his daughter, telling her if she ever saw my wife she would see the image of her mother. (Her mother was a first wife.) He said she looked like the daughter except as she departed from her mother in some resemblance to him all an injury. The daughter is a good-looking young person. Love to the bairns.

Affectionately ever, your

R.

MRS. HAYES.

SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 3, p. 22