It fell to my lot to be chosen for that purpose; the necessary funds being raised by the club to pay my expenses.

I accepted the mission, contingent upon my employer's granting me leave of absence.
Natchez at that time was not connected with Jackson by railroad, so that the only way for me to reach the capital was to go by steamer from Natchez to Vicksburg or to New Orleans, and from there by rail to Jackson.

The trip, therefore, would necessarily consume the greater part of a week.

My employer,--who was what was known as a Northern man, having come there after the occupation of the place by the Federal troops,--not only granted me leave of absence but agreed to remain in the city and carry on the business during my absence.
When I arrived at the building occupied by the Governor and sent up my card, I had to wait only a few minutes before I was admitted to his office.

The Governor received me cordially and treated me with marked courtesy, giving close attention while I presented as forcibly as I could the merits and qualifications of the different persons whose names were on the slate.