SEMINARY OF LEARNING, Jan. 30, 1860.
SIR: A case has this day arisen requiring my prompt action
under the paragraph of regulations quoted below:
“In extraordinary cases of resistance
to authority, calling for immediate action, the superintendent may adopt the
measures necessary to maintain order and good discipline, but in all such cases
he shall forthwith submit to the Board of Supervisors his report in writing of
all the facts and reasons for his action.”
Cadet D. F. H—h was reported to the commandant of cadets, by
Cadet S. M. H—s, acting as sergeant for some delinquency. He made an excuse in
writing, which the commandant of cadets referred to Mr. H—s for explanation.
Just before drill this p.m., Mr. H—s spoke to Cadet H—h about the excuse; some
words passed resulting in Mr. H—s using the word “lie.” H—h retorted the same
when H—s struck. H—h then went to his room and returned with a dirk knife, and
renewed the altercation with the knife open, and threatening to use it. I have
the knife and it is of the bowie knife pattern.
Mr. Smith happening to be near, interfered and caused Mr. H—h
to go to his room and remain there during drill. At the moment I was showing
some visitors through the building. As soon as the matter was reported to me, I
forthwith informed Mr. H—h that no possible cause or provocation could justify
or palliate the use or display by a member of this Seminary of a deadly weapon:
and that he must leave. I made an order to that effect, and although I told him
he could remain till morning, still he preferred to leave to-day.
I will to-morrow cause the whole truth to be determined and
recorded, and if Mr. H—s is to blame, he too must be punished according to the
degree of offence. The word “lie” must never be used here, with impunity, but I
assert the broad principle, that no word, or even blow must for a moment give a
pretext for the use of a deadly weapon.
SOURCE: Walter L. Fleming, General W.T. Sherman as College
President, p. 137-8
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