Amos T. Akerman to James B. McKean, 11 September 1871

Sept. 11, 1871. Hon. James B. McKean, Chief Justice, Salt Lake City, Utah. Sir: In looking over some letters I see that yours of March 22d is not marked as answered, and it is probable that in the pressure of business I omitted to notice it at the time. I write now to say that my omission to answer it immediately was from no indifference to the affairs of Utah, and from no want of sympathy with you in your vigorous efforts to sustain the authority of the United States in your Territory. There is, I think, a want of further legislation. I urged it individually upon Members of Congress last winter—but, for some reason that I cannot comprehend, nothing was done. I suggest that you make known to Members of Congress with whom you are acquainted, the distinct needs of your Territory in this particular, and that you do it so early that there will be time to carry it through during the session, in spite of the delays which may be produced by interest, by indifference, or by the absorption of members in other legislation. Very respectfully, &c. A. T. Akerman, Attorney General.