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

[1098]

There can be no military organization in any State, known to the laws, save the militia united and armies of the United States.

The President is the constitutional commander-in-chief of the militia and army of the United States; therefore, where in any portion of the United States an officer of superior rank is detailed to command, all other military officers in that district must.

[no. 90. see page 762.]

My Dear General:--I want to see you at your earliest convenience, in relation to a matter affecting the best interests of the government, and in regard to which I can better confer with you here than elsewhere. Please let me know by bearer if you can grant me an interview.

With great respect, yours, etc.,

[no. 91. see page 768.]

How long, my dear General, will you remain in New York? Will you stop in Philadelphia, or what would be better, can't you come this way? It is quite as near from New York to Washington.

I go to Philadelphia Thursday and if I cannot see you there or here I will go to you.

It is my private opinion that Stanton is to go on the march, and you should take his flank.

We will carry the State handsomely. Will telegraph you Wednesday morning.

Your friend,

[no. 92. see page 768.]

>My Dear Sir:--I may be here some days, certainly till after Wednesday. If you could come here then and come to the Hoffman House (my headquarters), I could make you very comfortable, and would be glad to see you. All is quiet here. The only thing we have to watch after election will be the gold operators who intend to run up the price till they can so affect the price of food and necessaries as to raise discontent amongst the laboring classes.

Yours truly,