Cairo,
Jan. 23d. 1862.
Dear Sister:
YOU have seen through the papers notice of my return from
the great expedition into Kentucky. My orders were such and the force with me
also so small that no attack was allowable. I made good use of the time however,
making a splendid reconnoissance of the country over which an army may have to
move. I have now a larger force than General Scott ever commanded prior to our
present difficulties. I do hope it will be my good fortune to retain so
important a command for at least one battle. I believe there is no portion of
our whole army better prepared to contest a battle than there is within my
district, and I am very much mistaken if I have not got the confidence of
officers and men. This is all important, especially so with new troops. I go
tonight to St. Louis to see General Halleck; will be back on Sunday morning. I
expect but little quiet from this on and if you receive but short,
unsatisfactory letters hereafter you need not be surprised.
Your letter asking me to intercede in behalf of Lieut. Jones
was received. I have no one of equal rank now to offer in exchange, unless it
should be some one of Jeff Thompson's command, but if it should fall in my power
to effect Lieutenant Jones’ release, I shall be most happy to do so. Write to
me giving the first name, where he now is, when taken and under what
circumstances.
I think you may look for Julia and the children about the
1st of February.
As I said before the three oldest will be left to go to
school. Jess is too small. You will like him the best of any of the children,
although he is the worst. I expect he will whip his Aunt Mary the first day.
Buck, though never really sick, is very delicate. He is the best child I ever
saw and is smart.
Give my love to all at home. I must close.
Brother Ulys.
SOURCE: Jesse Grant Cramer, Editor, Letters
of Ulysses S. Grant to His Father and His Youngest Sister, 1857-78, p. 77-9
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