We have a report this morning that the Rebels have crossed
the Potomac at Edwards Ferry, but the War Department says the report wants
confirmation and that we have no stragglers from there, as we should have if
the rumors were true.
Wilkes claims that he ought to have the position of Acting
Admiral. There is reason in his claim, though some are opposed to it. He is not
in favor with his professional brethren, has given great trouble and annoyance
to the Department heretofore and will be likely to give us more trouble, but I
believe it best to give him under the circumstances the position with the
squadron.
* * * * * * * * * * *
The question of publishing the report of General Pope was
before us. Some little discussion took place. I did not consider it strictly a
report, for it was not accompanied by the reports of the other officers, or any
statistics of killed, wounded, losses, or captures, but a statement from an officer
in command, who felt himself aggrieved and who expressed himself in a manner to
give offense. Much was said, and all concurred or acquiesced in non-publication
for the present, especially as there is to be an inquiry into the
subject-matter reported upon.
There is a good deal of demoralization in the army; officers
and soldiers are infected.
SOURCE: Gideon Welles, Diary of Gideon Welles,
Secretary of the Navy Under Lincoln and Johnson, Vol. 1: 1861 – March 30, 1864,
p. 110-1
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