CAMP NEAR WARRENTON, VA.,
November 9, 1862.
To-day, in company with the other generals of our corps, I
called to see McClellan. Reynolds made a few remarks, saying we had learned
with deep regret of his departure and sincerely hoped he would soon return.
McClellan was very much affected, almost to tears, and said that separation
from this army was the severest blow that could be inflicted upon him. The army
is greatly depressed.
We have had quite a snow storm, and to-day, though clear, is
very raw and cold. Our men suffer a good deal; what the Southerners do, without
clothing or shelter of any kind, I cannot imagine. I should think their
sufferings must be very much greater than ours. Sumner has returned, and it is
said Hooker is coming. If he does, Reynolds will take my division, and I shall
come down to a brigade. The removal of McClellan, however, will keep Hooker
away, if he can possibly avoid coming, as I know he will not serve voluntarily
under Burnside. Still, it is said Hooker has injured himself very much by his
prolonged stay in Washington, where he has talked too much and too
indiscreetly, and that he is not now half as strong as when he went there.
Tell Sargie1 I have received and perused with
great interest the thrilling tale, in Peterson's, of the wonderful
magnanimity of the Duke of Medina Sidonia. Such heroes don't live nowadays.
__________
1 Son of General Meade
SOURCE: George Meade, The Life and Letters of George
Gordon Meade, Vol. 1, p. 325-6
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