Falmouth, Va., March
30, 1863.
I am truly glad to hear Franklin called to see you. I am
sure you will bear testimony to the respect and good feeling I have always
expressed towards Franklin, and my earnest desire to avoid being drawn into the
controversy between himself and Burnside. I think Franklin missed a great
chance at Fredericksburg, and I rather infer from his letter that he thinks
so now; but I have always said he was hampered by his orders and a want of
information as to Burnside's real views and plans. A great captain would
have cast them aside and assumed responsibility. At the same time I must say
that he knew and I know that if he had failed, then his going beyond his orders
would prove utter ruin.
Deserters from the other side say the men are really
suffering from the want of sufficient food, but that their spirit is undaunted,
and that they are ready to fight. The morale of our army is better than
it ever was, so you may look out for tough fighting next time.
SOURCE: George Meade, The Life and Letters of George
Gordon Meade, Vol. 1, p. 362
No comments:
Post a Comment