United States Marshal's Office,

Washington City, D.C.

May 25 1877.

My dear Sir:

I have duly received your note of yesterday in the interest of our friend Robert Cathcart, and in reply I beg to state; that I have already spoken to General Divers on the subject, and my opinion is, in view of the well known repugnance of those in authority to interference of Federal officers, in matters of appointments, that any further word of mine in the interest of our friend Cathcart will be likely to do me harm and him no good. I think his chances are good without Such words from me, as he desires me to say in his behalf. Respectful rememberance to "Miss Amanda" Always glad to See you.

Very truly yours

Fredk. Douglass

The nest of hornets I brought about my head stung me pretty badly, but I am bravely recovering from the poison.