William Schouler, A history of Massachusetts in the Civil War: Volume 1

[145] money and time. There will be men going and returning, and a great variety of wants, large and small, until the end is reached; and we shall have undesirable men claiming to represent the State, and intermeddling in many ways, unless there is some one agent on the spot all the time.

The praise of the Old Bay State is in every mouth; and the repetition of the half said of her Governor to you would be flattery.

Very respectfully and truly yours,

I arrived here this afternoon, and I hope to report to you in person Saturday. I had free conversation with the President, General Scott, Mr. Seward, Mr. Chase, General Cameron, and Mr. Blair, upon public affairs. The impression I received from all, except perhaps Mr. Seward, was favorable to a vigorous prosecution of the war. Mr. Seward repeated his words of December and February, ‘The crisis is over.’ It is, however, understood at Washington, that Mr. Seward favors vigorous measures. Mr. Chase says, that the policy of the Administration is vigorous and comprehensive, as sure to succeed in controlling the Rebellion, and preserving the whole territory of the Union. I will only say now, that I left Washington with a more favorable impression of the policy of the Government than I entertained when I left Boston.

General Cameron agreed to authorize Massachusetts to raise two regiments in addition to that of Dwight's. The papers were all made, and only a Cabinet meeting prevented their completion on Tuesday. I did not wish to remain another day, and I left the papers with the chief clerk; and I also received the assurance of Colonel Ripley, that he would give personal and prompt attention to transmitting them to Boston. I shall expect them on Saturday.

Colonel Ripley issued an order on Tuesday for rifling cannon. Mr. Forbes's letter aided very much.

I am very truly your most obedient servant,