Raynolds, James W. (James Wallace), 1873-1910

Acting Governor of New Mexico Raynolds confirms the text of a telegram he sent Attorney General Bonaparte regarding the behavior and actions of Ormsby McHarg, United States Special Assistant Attorney General, in the case of Holm Olaf Bursum, the former Superintendent of Prisons. McHarg has made several demands of the territorial government, and while the territory is anxious to comply, they are not required by law to do so. Further, McHarg has impugned the character and capability of several officials. Raynolds asks for specific guidance from the Department of Justice as to the wishes of the department and the actions the territorial government of New Mexico is expected to perform in the matter.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1907-07-15

Creator(s)

Raynolds, James W. (James Wallace), 1873-1910

Acting Governor of New Mexico James W. Raynolds reports that Ormsby McHarg, United States Special Assistant Attorney General, and his representative Ernest P. Holcombe arrived in New Mexico and informed him that he was there to investigate acts of territorial officials, though he did not present any credentials to prove he was indeed an official of the United States. McHarg stated that he would appear in the court case of Holm Olaf Bursum, the former superintendent of prisons. In the process of relaying his intentions, McHarg threatened to involve the Department of Justice, President Roosevelt, and the press, if his demands were not met. In this and subsequent communications, McHarg accused the territorial attorney general and other officials of incompetence, ignorance of the law, and corruption. Though McHarg insisted all his communications be treated as confidential, a story appeared in the press which seems to have been planted by him.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1907-07-13

Creator(s)

Raynolds, James W. (James Wallace), 1873-1910