Headquarters Army Of The Potomac, November 11, 1864.
I note all you write of dear Sergeant,1 and of
his condition. It is hard for me to know that he continues so sick, and that I
cannot be with you to assist in taking care of him and in trying to keep up his
courage and spirits. I never doubted Sergeant's firmness of purpose and moral
courage. He had too often exhibited these qualities in the highest degree. I
fully sympathize with you in your anxiety, but can only urge you to watch him
closely. I am glad Mr. Keith goes to see him; the intercourse of good and
liberal men and women cannot but be beneficial, and I consider Mr. Keith one of
the best of men.
The Secretary of War relieved me of my political imbroglio
by ordering me to send the persons arrested to Washington. From all I could
understand of the matter, these people are innocent of any wrong intended; it
is known no wrong was actually perpetrated. Still, when they were charged by
others with intent to commit fraud, I was compelled, under the orders of the Department
and my own sense of duty, to hold them in arrest until the matter could be
investigated.
Mr. Johnny Reb has been moving about to-day, as if he had
taken it into his head to do something. I am sure I would be very grateful to
Lee if he would try his hand at the offensive for awhile.
To-day's papers say Sherman has burned Atlanta and moved on
Charleston. This is a bold move, the success of which will depend on Thomas's
ability to keep Hood out of Kentucky and Ohio.
__________
1 Son of General Meade.
SOURCE: George Meade, The Life and Letters of George
Gordon Meade, Vol. 2, p. 240-1
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