The Milan Exchange

Postmaster-General Key, in reply to a letter of Senator Merrimon, asking for information in relation to the distribution of patronage in the South, says: "I will endeavor to explain the situation as clearly and briefly as possible—When a vacancy exists in any office connected with this department in the Southern States, preference will be given to a Republican, all other things being equal: but should it be impossible to find a Republican who will be satisfactory to a large majority of the people whose business is directly affected by the appointment, or in case of a contest for office, then I shall not hesitate to step aside and select the persons who, in my judgment, will give satisfaction to the business interests of the community. While I shall always be glad to receive the advice of Senators and Representatives in Congress touching matters of this kind, yet I shall not consider myself as in any way bound to act upon it. My desire is to do the greatest good to the greatest number, and to this end I shall always be glad to have your co-operation."