Amos T. Akerman to T. H. Duval, 5 December 1870

December 5, 1870. Hon T. H. Duval, U. S. District Judge for the Western District of Texas, Tyler, Texas. Sir: I have received your letter of the 21st ultimo. It is very unfortunate that the funds were not at hand for defraying the expenses of the term at Tyler. Upon inquiry, I learn that it happened in this way: Mr. Purnell, the late Marshal, had duly sent in his requisition for funds. Shortly afterwards, he was suspended, and it is not the usage of the Department here to remit moneys to a suspended officer. Mr. Allan, the newly appointed Marshal, did not take his office in time to make a requisition for, and receive, the funds—and therefore none were sent him. I trust that Mr. Allan will make requisition at once, and relieve, as far as possible, the embarrassment which has thus been occasioned. Very respectfully, &c, A. T. Akerman, Attorney General.