Headquarters Army Of The Potomac, October 13, 1864.
I undoubtedly do not occupy the position I did just after
the battle of Gettysburg, and no one will retain any such position in this
country, unless he continues to be successful; but when you compare my position
with my numerous predecessors, McClellan, Pope, McDowell, Burnside, Hooker,
Rosecrans, Banks, Sigel and many others, I think you will admit that my
retaining command, and the hold I have at present, is even more creditable than
the exaggerated laudation immediately succeeding Gettysburg. Recollect, also,
that most persistent efforts have been made by influential men, politicians and
generals, to destroy me, without success; and I think you will find reason to
be grateful and satisfied, even though you should desire to see more justice
done. I don't mean to say I have not been badly treated, but I do mean to say I
might have been much worse treated, and that my present status is not
without advantages, and does not justify my being discontented.
I am very much distressed to hear that Sergeant1
does not seem well enough to bear a sea voyage, and still hope the fine weather
of the fall will enable him to gather strength.
_______________
1 Son of General Mcade.
SOURCE: George Meade, The Life and Letters of George
Gordon Meade, Vol. 2, p. 234
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