-election. He was very
explicit on both points--first that I ought at once to let it be
understood that I was a candidate in the sense stated in the Haskin
letter, and no more--that great care should be taken that while a
candidate, I ought not to take part in any movement of opposition
to others named--especially General Grant. The feeling is growing
daily that General Grant will not allow his name to be used and
that, while his eminent services should be fully recognized and
rewarded, it is neither right nor politic to elect him to the
presidency for the third term. The President very truly said that
any appearance of a personal hostility or opposition to General
Grant, would be inconsistent with my constant support of his
administration during eight years, and would induce a concentration
that would surely defeat me. Upon the second point he was very
explicit--that he would not be a candidate under any circumstances,
and as far as he could properly, without any unseemly interference,
he would favor my election. This was the general tenor of his
conversation, which he said he would repeat to General Schurz.
This relieves me from some embarrassment, but I still think it is
better for us to remain absolutely quiet, awaiting the development
of public opinion or the voluntary action of personal and political
friends. Unless there is a clear preponderance of opinion in
preference for my nomination against all others, I do not want to
enter upon the scramble. As yet I do not see any concentration.
Hoping to see you soon, I remain,

"Very sincerely yours,
"John Sherman.
"Hon. John B. Henderson."

After a brief visit to Mansfield I went to Columbus, where I met
with a hearty reception from men of both political parties. The
legislature was in session, and the senators and members, judges
of the courts, and executive officers of the state, called upon me
and gave me cordial greetings. I attended a reception at the house
of Governor Dennison, where I met the leading citizens of Columbus.
On my return to the hotel I was serenaded by a band, and being
introduced by Governor Dennison made a brief speech of a non-partisan
character, and in closing said:

"I want to make one personal remark about myself. Some of my
newspaper friends here have tried to make me a candidate for Governor
of Ohio, but I hope none of you will vote for me in convention or
before the people. I propose to stick to my present place until