third and Twenty-fourth Wards ; to reduce the rate of interest on unpaid taxes and assessments in Morrisania, West Farms and King's Bridge ; to abolish the office of trustee of the town of Westchester; and also several acts amending the Annexation Act, and measures relating to Yonkers and Westchester. He also actively supported, by voice and vote, the various bills introduced during both these sessions, for the reduction of fare on the Harlem, New Haven and Elevated Railroads ; bills reported by the Hepburn Railroad Committee ; bills for the revision of the tax laws, for the taxation of corporations, for the reduction of official salaries, and for the more economical government of the city of New York. His course in the Legislature was again so eminently satisfactory to the people of the district that he received the unusual compliment of a third unanimous nomination, every member of the convention arising, as his name was called, and announcing him as his choice for member of the Assembly of 1881. The honor, however, was declined on account of his desire to return to business.

But the people were determined that they would retain bis services, and the following letter, signed by the most prominent and influential citizens of the district and by hundreds of voters, irrespective of party, was addressed to him :

'■ New York, October 23, 1880.

" Hon. James L. M'ells:

" Deur Sir, -- Impressed with the belief that the people of the 23(1 and 24th Wards reciuire that they should have in the Board of Aldermen a representative whose past e.\perience in and devotedness to public matters affecting this District will afford a guaranty that their interests will be fully protected and cared for, and believing, from our past acquaintance with you and your pubhc course iu the Legislature, that you M'ould, when elected as .\lderman, faithfully represent the people of the District, we earnestly request that you will permit the use of your name as a candidate for Alderman.