This is Jesse's most politically oriented letter. He speaks of McKay & Hayes, as well as Garfield.
His full name is also revealed in the way he signed this letter; Jesse Stem Stoner.

Helena, Oct. 5/96

My Dear Lee.

Yours 28 Sept. at hand. I did not write just because I had nothing to write about and have awfully busy at store besides, having lot of outside matter to attend to, been having trouble with one of my store tennants, got up at 2 P. M. Monday, and put (illegible) on his stock, just in time to think I will save all the (illegible).

You know it never rains but it pours. Yes I got caught a little in the bank, but not bad. I think give them time it will pay out, but it means at least 3 years.

I got a short letter from Sallie yesterday, and want to answer it tonight. By the way do you know of any one who has any influence with McK, do you think Chas. R. would or could get the influence of Garfield, or Birch Hayes, or for the latter do you think Dr. or Mrs. A. H. Miller could be influenced to get a letter or help from Hayes, in case McK is elected. You or I might want to try for something. What do you think. I feel more and more that he will be elected. When we first started our Club, it was a disgrace to belong to it, but the situation is changing fast and we have quite a large McK & H Club here now.

I am glad the girls are getting along so nicely. Jessie must have quite a reputation as a speaker to be so in demand, wish she were a boy. Tell them the picture was not finished but will come in due time.

With much love to them, and Ida
Your Bro
J Stem Stoner