[Copy]
St Louis Oct 10th/61
Brig Geni Saml. R. Curtis
Sir
Your[s] of the 9th in relation to Mr. Taylor,1 Mail Agt is recd. You say you are informed that I have reproached a Mail Agt for expressing Union Sentiments, and denouncing Secession; in this you are misinformed, the Captain of the boat informed me that he (Mail Agt) was neglectful of his business and would have his mail bags put off & recd by unauthorized Deck Hands or Watchmen, and at times would leave his room door unprotected, and instead of attending to his duties was annoying passengers by making speaches. I then said to Mr Taylor that I have been requested by the Asst Post Master General to see that the Mail Agts. discharged their duties & when they were remiss to report to him. You also wish to know whether I am going to conduct the boats in such a way as to foster sentiments of Secession or rebellion.
I would answer, that I have done all in my power to assist the Union cause, since the war commenced, but it has not been my habit to make much noise in any of my business relations, but feel safe in saying that I have done more than many others, similarly situated, and am still doing all in my power for the cause.
Hoping the above will be Satisfactory
I remain
Yours Respectfully
J. S. McCune
President
1. Hawkins Taylor, Keokuk, Iowa, who was nominated for the post by Curtis when the latter was in Congress, spring of 1861.