The Writings of Carl Schurz/From Rutherford B. Hayes, January 17th, 1877
FROM RUTHERFORD B. HAYES
Private.
I returned late last night, and find here your letter. I have
no time to reply suitably this morning, but hasten to assure
you that nobody is authorized to represent me on the subject
of the count. I have thought it fitting that I should let
that matter well alone. Of course I have opinions. But I
shall abide the result. No one ought to go to war or even to
law about it. I am free to say to you that I concur with Kent.
But others abler to judge think otherwise, and I recognize
their right as good Republicans so to think. Many good Republicans think that the interests of the party will be
promoted by Tilden's success. I can see many reasons for
this opinion. In the absence of Congressional action the
Vice-President should count and declare. I am favorably
impressed with leaving it to be decided by lot. But I beg
you to believe me sincere when I say that I take no part in
this, and shall quietly await the event. There is a contingency
which I must be prepared for. I must consider, if not write,
an inaugural, and consider, if not appoint, a Cabinet. On
these points I shall be glad to hear from all of my friends.
I had a good talk with General Cox at Toledo, Saturday.
Write often and fully.