On the 3d of June, 1856, a resolution for the relief of
Kansas failed in the Massachusetts Legislature, mainly, it
was alleged, through the hostility of Governor Gardner. On
the next day a message from the Governor was received by the
Legislature, recommending the payment of the expense of the
illness of Mr. Sumner. This was followed in the Senate by a
resolution to the same effect. On learning these proceedings,
Mr. Sumner dictated the following telegraphic despatch, which
was signed by his immediate representative in Congress.
WASHINGTON, June 6, 1856.
Mr. Sumner has just learned the recommendation of Governor
Gardner that the Commonwealth should assume the expense of his
illness. He desires me to telegraph at once his hope that the
recommendation will not be pressed. In no event can he accept the
allowance proposed, and Mr. Sumner adds, “Whatever Massachusetts
can give, let it all go to suffering Kansas.”