Boston March 10/54

Dear Bradburn,

     I saw Mr Sewell today, and he said he did not think anything would be accomplished – that is, I inquired solely as the friend of French, - and received the above answer – and I infer that if nothing is likely to be accomplished that would interest French, nothing is likely to be affected that would interest you. But doubtless Sewell will unite you on the subject. I did not think it best to mention your name.

     Mr Sewell did not speak as if he had relinquished all hope, but rather as if he thought all probability had expired.

     I hope you will find some situation that will be agreeable to you. I suspect a situation at Chicago misht be in some respects a more independent position than the one here, unless Dr Howe’s interest in the paper could be bought out. I imagine the rest of the proprietors would attempt no dictation, but that Dr Howe might make himself officious and troublesome – though perhaps you can judge that better than I. I mention this because I have heard of some two or three little incidents that have led me to suppose that he rather insists upon putting into the paper whatever he himself chooses to write. Perhaps however, that is no more than he may reasonably do, if he writes gratis, as I suppose he does.

                             Yours truly

                                  L. Spooner