I went up to the White House to endeavor to induce President Grant to withdraw it, but he had gone out.

I repeated my visit once or twice, but failed to find the President.

The third or fourth time that I went up, as I was coming away I saw President Grant on the other side of Pennsylvania Avenue, walking alone on the sidewalk adjoining Lafayette Square.

I suppose it was not in accordance with etiquette to join the President when he was walking alone in the street; but I overtook him, and said: "Mr.President, I have been to the White House several times, and been unable to find you in.

The business of the House is very urgent just now, and it is difficult for me to get away again.