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

“General Butler, you don't appear to be aware that a general of United States militia has no right to command New York State troops.”

“No, sir,” said I, “I am not aware of that, and it is not the law. Have you got a copy of the Articles of War in your pocket?”

“No, sir.”

“Have you examined them?”

“No, sir; but I was educated at West Point.”

That was the first time in carrying on war, that West Point had ever interfered to render my movements abortive, but not the last time by a great deal, as we shall see hereafter. It stirred me then, as it always has stirred me since.

I turned to Lefferts and said: “What rank does this man hold in your command?”

“None at all.”

“Well, then, I have nothing to do with him.” And I asked Lefferts once again: “Will you march?” I spoke with considerable emphasis, and added: “I hope you won't refuse to obey my order.”

Then Red Nose said: “Well, what will you do if the colonel refuses to march?”

“If he refuses to march, I certainly have this remedy: I will denounce him and his regiment as fit only to march down Broadway in gala dress to be grinned at by milliners' apprentices.”

I then called an orderly and sent for Lieutenant-Colonel Hincks, of the Eighth Regiment, to report to me at once. It so happened that he was at the very door, and came in. I said: “Colonel Hincks, take two companies of the Eighth Regiment and march out two miles on the Elkton railroad towards Washington, and hold it against all comers until I reinforce you, if necessary, and report to me in the morning. Colonel Lefferts with his whole regiment is afraid to go, Colonel, but you will obey orders.” Colonel Hincks bowed, and did obey orders instantly.

Red Nose then said: “Such language as that, General, requires reparation among officers and gentlemen.”

“Oh, well,” said I, “as far as Colonel Lefferts is concerned, I shall be entirely satisfied with him if he shows a disposition to fight anybody anywhere; let him begin on me. But as for you, if you interrupt this conversation again, and if you do not leave the room ”