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Ernest P. Holcombe’s reports on his travels as special inspector to attend the hearing in the case of Holm Olaf Bursum v. Territory of New Mexico. Holcombe mentions his conversations with Judge Albert B. Fall, who was under the influence of alcohol. Holcombe details the proceedings of the Bursum case, which resulted in the Territory owing an amount of money to Bursum.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1907-09-19
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.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1907-07-15
United States Attorney William H. H. Llewellyn reports to President Roosevelt that Special Assistant Attorney General Ormsby McHarg has begun his investigation in New Mexico by listening to men of bad character who are opponents of Roosevelt and his administration. Llewellyn does not object to the investigation, but urges that it be carried out in a fair and impartial manner.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1907-07-23
Llewellyn, William H. H. (William Henry Harrison), 1851-1927
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.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1907-07-13
The editorial writers of the Alburquerque Morning Journal claim the paper would be in contempt of court if the writers were to discuss the report of referee Charles V. Safford in the case of Prison Superintendent Holm Olaf Bursum. The Alburquerque Evening Citizen encourages the Morning Journal to address a series of questions in order to keep “what little self respect it has.” The list of questions to be answered includes queries about the Bursum case, corrupt prison practices, and the alleged corruption of New Mexico Governor Herbert J. Hagerman.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1907-07-15