He had a high opinion of Mr.Boutwell and had been very earnest, so far as he could properly do so, in advocating his original nomination to Congress.

In the evening after the Cabinet had been announced Mr.William B.Washburn, afterward Governor, called upon me at my room.
Mr.Washburn and I were not then intimate, although we afterward became close friends.

He said that he had been requested by the delegation to tell me that they earnestly hoped to Mr.Boutwell might have a place in the Cabinet, and that, although they had great regard for Judge Hoar, they hoped that some arrangement might still be made which would bring about the selection of Mr.Boutwell.

I told Mr.Washburn that I was sure that the appointment of Judge Hoar would be a surprise to him, as it was to me, and that I thought it quite doubtful whether he would wish to leave his place on the Bench for a seat in the Cabinet, but that I could not speak for him or judge for him.

I telegraphed at once to Judge Hoar not to commit himself in any way until he reached Washington and could see me.