“
[80]
military power of the Rebels.”
Their great armies must be overwhelmed, and there will end their hopes. . . .
[A few days later Lyman left for the North on a three weeks leave.
While he was dining in Washington, at Willard's, “General Grant1 came in, with his little boy; and was immediately bored by being cheered, and then shaken by the hand by οἱ πολλοὶ! He is rather under middle height, of a spare, strong build; light-brown hair, and short, light-brown beard.
His eyes of a clear blue; forehead high; nose aquiline; jaw squarely set, but not sensual.
His face has three expressions: deep thought; extreme determination; and great simplicity and calmness.”]
Headquarters Army of Potomac March 30, 1864
I am pretty well, I thank you, and not so blue as when I came back the other time, perhaps because the generals are here and it is not so utterly triste. However, I am fain to say I draw invidious comparisons between it and home, mais that helps nothing.
There have been marvellous changes within these three weeks. Generals Sykes, Newton, French, and Pleasonton are ordered off. I do feel sorry for Sykes, an excellent soldier, always sure to do his duty, and with this army for a long time.
I fear they displaced him at Washington because they disliked his rough manners.
General Pleasonton was always very civil to me 