[348]
I judge that Meade is likely to be relieved and Hancock to be put in his place, but this is a mere private impression not to be repeated.
Sheridan seems to be likely to be kept where he is for the present.
I don't see the possibility of any Rebel campaign being made in the Valley, when all supplies must be hauled from Stanton.
It is all a desert there; nothing is left except what corn was standing in the fields.
All barns and their contents have been destroyed, and all stacks of hay and grain.
All the cattle have been driven out, big and little, horned, hairy, and woolly.
This in the Luray and Moorefield valleys, as well as in the main valley.
Sheridan has fallen back to the Opequan, and has fortified his position somewhere near Smithfield, with the railroad to supply him from Harper's Ferry.
Under these circumstances, and with Loudon and Fauquier similarly devastated, I don't see how the Rebels can try it again in that direction this fall, and my judgment is clear that Crook with his force will be ample to do all that is needed.
If I were the general, I would take the other two corps and two divisions of cavalry for use elsewhere.
Sheridan and Sherman are generals after the style I have always looked for in one respect at least — they devastate indeed.
The former of the two appears to me to be the first military genius whom the war has produced on either side. ...
On November 23d he wrote me again, as follows:
Immediately on the first report of Canby's misfortune an order was made assigning General Reynolds to the temporary command of the military division.
We now learn that Canby is not likely to be long disabled.
I don't see any chance of Smith's being employed till General Grant desires to employ him.
Franklin is not likely to have a command anywhere. ...
Don't believe any of the reports about approaching changes in the cabinet.
If Mr. Stanton is to be Chief-Justice,
