CAMP HASTINGS, March
24, 1865.
DEAR UNCLE: — Crook
was all right with Grant, but Stanton was angry. Grant however rules matters
where he really attempts it. Stanton refused to make an effort for a
special and privileged exchange. Grant, however, had it done. Crook
stopped at Grant's headquarters. Grant wanted him to stay and take an
important active command in his army before Richmond. Crook told him
he wanted to be restored to the Department of West Virginia, if for
only one day, to show the public that he was not in disfavor. It was
accordingly so arranged. Crook returned here, took command, came out to my
camp and had a happy meeting with the men, and the next day
left for Grant's Army. It is supposed he will take the cavalry of the
Army of the Potomac. It is probably better for his reputation that it
is so.
Hancock is a very
fair man, but nervous, excitable, and hasty. Would not act badly
except from want of reflection.
Your suggestion as
to Mother is, I think, correct. She is probably happier than her letters would
indicate. As people get along in life, their feelings and mode of talking and writing
get into channels; they have habits of talking, etc.,
which do not mean much. If mother was perfectly happy she would write in a
strain of melancholy. She is in the habit of thinking
that she would like to be with her grandchildren all the time. This
is a mistake. Their noise and childish acts and talking
would in one week weary her into greater discomfort than she is now
in for want of them. For a little while she enjoys them very much. My
only effort is to treat her affectionately and try to turn her
thoughts in some incidental way into pleasanter paths. If I were keeping house,
I know she would soon become more tired of my home than she is
now of Mrs. Wasson's. Her intellect is twisted into a habit of thinking and meditating
too much on herself instead of occupying her mind with external
affairs. It can't be helped. Indirectly we may do a good deal
to contribute to her happiness, but scarcely anything in the common way.
Suppose I should say, "What do you prefer as your mode of life?" and she
should reply, I would do her no favor by complying exactly with her wishes. I
shall try to go to Washington (for) a few days soon.
