Houston, Sam (1793-1863) to John G. Tod re: obtaining a federal contract; the new Buchanan administration
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05718 Author/Creator: Houston, Sam (1793-1863) Place Written: Washington Type: Letter signed Date: 1857/01/12 Pagination: 3 p. + docket 24.2 x 19.6 cm Order a Copy
Discussing the Buchanan administration: "Trouble comes enough when a man finds it out himself."
Washington Jan: 12 1857
[Capt.] John G. Tod
My Dear Sir
Overwhelmed with business I had the pleasure to receive your letter. Shortly after my arrival here I heard that [Moore] had obtained the contract to build the Custom [House]. I thought no more of it until I saw in the "Union" advertisement for proposals to build is, restricting the bidders to "master builders". I happened to the Treasury Department and having heard that Moore had obtained the contract and subsequently having seen this advertisement, I asked the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury what it meant, and if the contract had not been [let], he replied, there was a contract made and signed, but security for its performance [work] given, and it was considered void and advertised. I think I have given you the circumstances accurately and the details minutely, the advertising restricting it to Master builders. I [?] suppose indicates pretty clearly the views of the Department. My Dear Tod every thing here appears at a stand still until after the Inauguration of the New President, [?] of rumors are afloat as to his new Cabinet and what he will do. I only [?] none of them if he does [?] no will [them] is soon, and if he does badly as the Indian says. Trouble comes soon enough when a man finds it out himself. [??] and all my friends.
Truly [?]
Sam Houston
P.S. I will see Rusk in relation to what you desire and do any thing for you in my power
[?] Houston
[docket:]
Genl: Sam Houston
U.S. Senate
Washington City D.C.
January:12th 1857.
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