He therefore at first positively refused "to come in on any terms but a confirmation by the Senate first given." He was finally induced to comply with the general wish of his political friends.

The appointment was withheld by the President that the feeling in the Senate might be judged from its action on the rest of the nominations submitted.

They were all approved, and Mr.Dexter consented to hold over until his successor should be appointed.

Thus Mr.Gallatin's convenience was entirely consulted.

He remained in Washington a few days to confer with the President as to the general conduct of the administration, and on March 14 set out for Fayette to put his affairs in order and to bring his wife and family to Washington.