ALS. Says that the death of his father and the replacement of Thornburgh by Houk as local congressman, he has been fired without adequate explanation from his job with the Internal Revenue Service. Asserts that Raum gives different people different explanations for firing him. Says that he suspects that the real reason was to find a place for one more of that numerous band of carpetbaggers, in whose interest the Unionists of the South, have so long been compelled to stand aside. Expresses wish that the Administration would better treat native Southern Unionists. Says that he refuses to ask Houk's help or ask the help of the Postmaster General, whose presence in the Cabinet originally an insult to every Southern Union man... Asserts Postmaster General Key's appointments are alienating Southern Unionists. Asks Sherman to help him in regard to his case. Long discussion of his case. Says that doing his job too well may be the source of his problem. I showed that it had been the custom of Congressmen from Arkansas to demand a portion of the salaries of the Internal Revenue officers, whom they had appointed...This caused some of ex-Senator Clayton's friends to be removed... Discusses the conduct of his predecessors and compares it with his own. Has heard an agent speak disrespectfully of President Hayes. Given the poor caliber of some within the service, states I cannot but feel chagrined that I who have done my duty faithfully should be asked to retire to make room for another of perhaps the same sort as those I have described. States that since his dismissal, four tobacco manufacturers have been convicted due to his efforts. States that his dismissal was improper and I am entitled as a free American citizen...to meet my accusers, if I have any, face to face... Says that he has received nothing but kindness, through the years from Sherman, and I appeal to set me right... (See below December 21, 1878).