New Orleans, February 7th, 1863.
Dear Sir: I
wrote you by the last steamer expressing a wish to receive the office of “Commissioner
of Internal Revenue” which you so kindly offerred. I now repeat the wish, and
am ready to commence operations whenever you direct.
The great military movement up the West side of the
Mississippi has commenced to-day or will commence in a day or two. The bayous
leading from the Teche and near there, lead right through to Red River, so that
light draft boats can go through them above Port Hudson. About 9,000 men will
advance in one column.
A rumor prevails here among the secessionists that we have
been whipped off Mobile and that Ship Island is captured. The story is without
foundation, though you may see it in N. Y. papers. A very strong feeling is
arising among the planters against Gen. Banks. The reason is that he is not
sufficiently pro-slavery to suit them. I think statements have been sent to
Washington that he has commenced speculating. I am confident such charges are
entirely false. 1 do not think Gen. Banks a great commander, but believe him to
be completely honest.
Admiral Farragut has gone out to sea in his flagship, the "Hartford"—probably
for the purpose of visiting the various blockading vessels along the coast.
In my next I shall have occasion to say something more about
Dr. Zachary.
SOURCE: Diary and correspondence of Salmon P. Chase, Annual
Report of the American Historical Association for the Year 1902, Vol.
2, p. 356-7
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