The Evening Times

PORTER CALLED ON THURBER

McKinley's Private Secretary Making a Reconnaissance.

He Obtained an Inkling of the Duties He Will Have to Perform.

John Addison Porter, who will succeed Mr. Thurber as private secretary to the President, spent some time at the White House today, getting a glimpse of some of the duties of the position which he is soon to assume.

Mr. Porter paid his respects to President Cleveland immediately on reaching the Executive Mansion. Mr. Cleveland gave a warm welcome to the man who will look after the incoming President's official business, and indicated in a jocular manner to Mr. Porter that he would not find his new position to be a path strewn with roses. Mr. Thurber, who was also present, smiled a look of assurance at the President's remark, which more than indicates its truthfulness. Mr. Thurber then took his successor in charge and explained to him many of the practical workings of the office.

Mr. Porter, who has many warm friends in Washington, will remain here for several days. At the present time he is stopping with Mr. A. J. Boardman, a relative, at his palatial residence on Dupont Circle.

Mr. Porter, in conversation with a Times reporter, said:

"My visit here is purely of a business nature, but I shall take the opportunity offered to pay my respects to many of my old friends. I shall probably go back to my home in Hartford on Thursday next, returning in time for Mr. McKinley's induction into office."

Mr. Porter, who is extremely affable in his manners and easily approachable, said that he had not as yet made up his mind where he would reside after taking up his official residence in this city.