Benjamnin F. Butler, Butler's Book: Autobiography and Personal Reminiscences of Major-General Benjamin Butler

[no. 93. see page 769.]

Dear General:--I will be in New York Saturday noon at the Astor. Will you please call there or drop me a note, and say where I shall call on you.

[no. 94. see page 770.]

General:--Supposing it possible that it may be of interest to you and the public service to know that the quite considerable interest here who are unfriendly to your further advancement, are circulating most industriously a rumor that you do not want to be Secretary of War, that your ambition lies in some other direction, etc., I tell you that such is the case.

Gen. P. M. Wetmore came to me yesterday to ask if you would accept if appointed, saying he knew it would receive the support of every newspaper worth having, in New York, and that it was rumored you did not wish the appointment.

An army influence here (regulars) is industriously circulating the rumor that you would not accept, and they say you could have the appointment if it was known at Washington you wanted it; but it is said to be the opinion there that you would not accept.

Your obedient servant,

[no. 95. see page 770.]

Enough now seems to be known to say who is to hold the reins of government for the next four years. Congratulate the President for me for the double victory. The election having passed off quietly, no bloodshed or riot throughout the land, is a victory worth more to the country than a battle won. Rebeldom and Europe will so construe it.

Orders have been made requesting the immediate return of all troops to the field, and the utmost diligence of the department will be directed to that object. General Dix reports that all of Butler's troops except five hundred regulars can return. A copy of his despatch is given. Before ordering Butler back, I will wait a day until the New York election be more definitely ascertained.