Diary of Salmon P. Chase: Saturday, September 27, 1862

Gov. Andrew came to breakfast. Laughed — vexed too — at report in Herald of proceedings of Governors at Altoona, which he ascribed to the exclusion of reporters. While at breakfast, Col. Andrews and Lieut. Barber, both of Marietta, came in from battle-ground. The Colonel handed me Cox's Report, and informed me that Col. Clark was killed, which left him Lieut. Colonel in actual command. He gave a very interesting account of the conduct of Cox's (late Reno's) corps, both at South Mountain and Antietam. The Reports, however, were more full, and reflected the highest credit on Cox and the officers and men of his troops. Andrews said that McClellan and Burnside would recommend Cox for Major General — an object which I assured Col. A. I would most gladly promote.

Gov. Andrew said he had called on Gen. Hooker the evening before, and met Stanton and Tod. Hooker was unequivocal in condemnation of McClellan's inactivity. At Department, McClernand called and my favorable impression of last evening was strengthened. Many things in a plan of campaign which he urged seemed admirable, especially the Eastern movement from the Mississippi River.

Saw the President, and asked him his opinion of McClernand. Said he thought him brave and capable, but too desirous to be independent of every body else.

Later in the day, received telegram from Bliss, Paymaster General of New York, asking for $300,000 in small notes in exchange for the same amount of large ones to enable him to forward eight regiments. It occurred to me that, by having these regiments sent to Louisville and Mitchell's and Garfield's brigades brought from Louisville and sent to Port Royal, with one or two brigades in addition, a successful expedition against Charleston might be immediately organized; and I determined to speak to Stanton in relation to it tomorrow. Garfield spent the evening with me and accepted invitation to make my house his home while in town.

SOURCE: Annual Report of the American Historical Association for the Year 1902, Vol. 2, p. 96-7

Diary of Salmon P. Chase: Thursday, September 25, 1862

At Department as usual. The President sent for me to meet the Secretary of War. Found he had nothing to talk about except the supply of an additional sum to Gov. Gamble, of Missouri, to be used in defending the State against invasion and guerillaism. Agreed to confer with the Secretary of War on the subject. Enquired as to progress of the War. No information, and nothing satisfactory as to what is to be expected. Coming out Stanton told me that McClellan wants bridges built across the Potomac and Shenandoah, as preliminaries to movement; to which Halleck wont consent. Dan helps Zeke doing nothing.¹

Delighted this morning by news of Gen. Wadsworth's nomination for Governor of New York, on the first ballot.

In the afternoon, went with Garfield to see Hooker, who was very free in his expressions about McClellan. He said it was not true that either the army or the officers were specially attached to him; that only two corps, whose commanders were special favorites and whose troops had special indulgences, could be said to care anything about him; that other officers — he himself certainly — thought him not fit to lead a great army; that he is timid and hesitating when decision is necessary; that the battle of Antietam was near being lost by his way of fighting it, whereas, had the attack been simultaneous and vigorous on the enemy's right, center and left, the rout would have been complete; that our force in the battle exceeded the enemy's by 30,000 men, and that the defeat of the enemy should have been final. He said also, that when Pope had drawn off a large part of the rebel force from Richmond and orders came to McClellan to withdraw, he urged him to give, on the contrary, orders for advance; that the orders were actually given and then revoked, much to his chagrin. This recalled to my mind a conversation with Gen. Halleck at that time. I said to him, that it seemed to me our people could now certainly take Richmond by a vigorous push, as Pope had 60,000 of the rebels before him, and at least half of the remaining 60,000 were south of the James, leaving only 30,000 with the fortifications on the north side; to which Gen. Halleck replied, that it was too dangerous an undertaking. I said, “If this cannot be done, why not return to Fredericksburgh, leaving Richmond on the left?” “This,” he said, “would be quite as dangerous — a flank movement, in which our army would be exposed to being cut off and totally lost.” Gen. Hooker said that the movement I suggested could have been executed with safety and success. He said, also, that he was somewhat reconciled to leaving the Peninsula by being told that it was a plan for getting rid of McClellan, and the only one which it was thought safe to adopt. This he thought so essential, that anything necessary to it was to be accepted.

Returning from Gen. Hooker's, as well as going, Gen. Garfield gave me some very interesting portions of his own experience. This fine officer was a laborer on a canal in his younger days. Inspired by a noble ambition, he had availed himself of all means to acquire knowledge — became a Preacher of the Baptist Church — was made the President of a flourishing Literary Institution on the Reserve — was elected to the Ohio Senate, and took a conspicuous part as a Republican leader. On the breaking out of the War he became a Colonel — led his regiment into Eastern Kentucky — fought Humphrey Marshall near Prestonburgh — gained position rapidly — was made at my instance, a Brigadier — fought under Buell at Shiloh — and was now in Washington by direction of the Secretary of War, who proposes to give him the Department of Florida. A large portion of his regiment, he said, was composed of students from his college.

Went to Seward's to dinner, where I met the Marquis of Cavendish, and his brother, Col. Leslie of the British Army; Mr. Stuart and Mr. Kennedy of the British Legation; Genl. Banks, and Mr. Everett. Gen. Banks earnest against more separation of forces until the rebel army is crushed.

Home. Found there Genl. and Mrs. McDowell. Soon after, Capt. and Mrs. Loomis came in. Could not help the Captain who wished to be Quartermaster of Genl. Sigel's Corps.

To bed tired and unwell

________________

¹ A reference to the familiar story of Daniel Webster's boyhood.

SOURCE: Annual Report of the American Historical Association for the Year 1902, Vol. 2, p. 94-6

Diary of Salmon P. Chase: Wednesday, September 24, 1862

The President called a special meeting of the Cabinet to-day, and asked our judgments on two questions:

First, as to the expediency of Treaties with Governments desiring their immigration, for voluntary colonization of blacks.

Second, As to the proper answer to be returned to the letter from John Ross, excusing the Treaty of the Cherokees with the Rebels, and asking the protection of the United States and the fulfilment of old Treaties.

On the first question, there was the usual diversity of opinion. I not thinking Colonization in its self desirable, except as a means of getting a foothold in Central America,¹ thought no Treaties expedient; but simple arrangements, under the legislation of Congress by which any person who might choose to emigrate, would be secured in such advantages as might be offered them by other States or Governments. Seward rather favored Treaties, but evidently did not think much of the wisdom of any measures for sending out of the country laborers needed here. The President asked us to think of the subject, and be ready to express our opinions when we next come together.

As to the Cherokee question there seemed to be a general concurrence that no new pledges should be given them but that, at the end of the war, their condition and relation to the United States should have just consideration.

After Cabinet, went with Stanton to War Department, and laid before him sundry applications for positions, with such verbal support as I thought due to them. Returning to the Department, I found there young Mr. Walley, and gave him an earnest recommendation to Stanton; and was surprised, an hour or so after, to receive a note from him thanking me for my kindness, but saying that Mr. Stanton told him there was no likelihood of his receiving an appointment; and that he was going to enlist as a private. Wrote note to Mr. Walley (his father) expressing my regret.

Nothing at Department but routine — except direction to Cisco to receive deposits of gold, and a call from Eli Thayer about his project for colonizing East Florida, with which I sympathize.

Had proposed to Genl. Garfield to take him over and call on Genl. Hooker, but it rained and he did not come. After dinner, however, the sky cleared some what, and Katie and I rode out and called on him. He was still improving.

An hour or two after our return, a band of music, which had just serenaded the President by way of congratulation on the Proclamation, came to my house and demanded a speech — with which demand I complied briefly. Gen. Clay, who was with me, responded more at length. After the crowd had passed on, Gen. Clay, Mr. Clark, of Mercer, Penna., Genl. Robinson, of Pittsburgh, and Mr. Wm. D. Lewis, of Philadelphia, came in and spent a little time with me.

_______________

¹ Chase, like Seward, contemplated the expansion of the United States southward to the Isthmus. See his letter to James H. Smith, May 8, 1849.

SOURCE: Annual Report of the American Historical Association for the Year 1902, Vol. 2, p. 92-4

Diary of Salmon P. Chase: Tuesday, September 23, 1862

At breakfast this morning, I proposed to Katie to ride over to the Insane Asylum and see Genl. Hooker, to which she agreed; and she having provided a basket of grapes, peaches, etc., we went. We were very kindly received by Mrs. Nichols, who ushered us into the General's room. He was lying on a couch, but suffering no pain, he talked very freely as far as time would permit, of the recent events. He said that at Richmond, when the order came to withdraw the army, he advised McClellan to disobey, and proposed a plan for an advance on Richmond. McClellan gave him the order to advance, but, before the time for movement came, recalled it, and gave orders for evacuation. When Hooker expected to march to Richmond, therefore, he found himself, to his surprise, compelled to fall back to the Chickahominy on his way to Aquia. I said to him, “General, if my advice had been followed, you would have commanded after the retreat to James River, if not before.” He replied, “If I had commanded, Richmond would have been ours.” He then spoke of the Battle of Antietam, where he received his wound, and expressed his deep sorrow that he could not remain on the field three hours longer. “If I could have done so,” he said, “our victory would have been complete; for I had already gained enough and seen enough to make the route of the enemy sure.” After he had been carried off, he said, McClellan sent for him again to lead an advance. The General impressed me favorably as a frank, manly, brave and energetic soldier, of somewhat less breadth of intellect than I had expected, however, though not of less quickness, clearness and activity.

While we were conversing, Dr. Nichols came in and I had some talk with him in an adjoining room. He said the General's wound was as little dangerous as a foot wound could be, the ball having passed through the fleshy part just above the sole and below the instep, probably without touching a bone. I suggested the trial of Dr. Foster's balm. He made no special objection, but said the wound was doing as well as possible, without inflammation and very little matter; and he thought it unnecessary to try any experiments. I could not help concurring in this and postponed Dr. F. and his balm. — The Doctor said he first knew him when he encamped below him last year; that he became deeply interested in him; that when he heard he was wounded, he went up to Frederic, seeking him; that he missed him; but that his message reached him, and he came down to the Asylum himself. I asked, “What is your estimate of him?” — “Brave, energetic, full of life, skilful on the field, not comprehensive enough, perhaps, for plan and conduct of a great campaign; but at least equal in this respect, if not superior to any General in the service.”

Mr. Rives (of the Globe), his daughter and son-in-law came in and we took our leave; Dr Nichols having first strongly recommended to me to secure the appointment of Col. Dwight, of Mass., as a Brigadier General.

Returned home and went to Department Found Genl. Robinson, of Pittsburgh, there, and Mr. Piatt and Dr. Harkness. Got Harrington to go with P. and H. to War Department. — Mr. Welles came in, about appointment of Pease, in Wisconsin, and I asked him to write a note about it. — Attorney-General Bates called, with Mr. Gibson of St. Louis, about pecuniary aid to Gov. Gamble — both telling a very different story from Farrar and Dick. Promised to look at papers and answer tomorrow. — Stanton came in about payment of paroled soldiers at Camp Chase, which I promised to provide for. Said that he proposed to make the Department of Florida, with Thayer as Governor and Garfield as Commanding General, if I approved of Garfield. I said 1 approved heartily. Said he had insisted on removal of Buell, and leaving Thomas in command. I could not disapprove of this, though I think less highly of him than he seems to think. — He went and Barney came in. Asked him to dine. Declined, but promised to call in the evening. — Mr. Hamilton, on invitation, came to our house to stay while in town.

In the evening, many callers — Miss Schenck, Genl. and Mrs. McDowell, Genl. Garfield, and others. Young Mr. Walley came, with letters from his father, and I brought him in and introduced him to Katie and our guests.

SOURCE: Annual Report of the American Historical Association for the Year 1902, Vol. 2, p. 90-2

Diary of Salmon P. Chase: Sunday, July 27, 1862

A telegram from Genl. Morgan this morning apprised me of his resignation, and of his wish that I would secure its prompt acceptance. I went, therefore, to the War Department, wishing to oblige him, and also to secure Garfield's appointment in his place. Mr. Stanton was not in, but saw Watson.

Talked with Watson about the state of things. He mentioned two conversations with McClellan in November of last year, in both of which Watson expressed the opinion that the rebels were in earnest — that peace, through any arrangement with them, was not to be hoped for — and that it would be necessary to prosecute the war, even to the point of subjugation, if we meant to maintain the territorial integrity of the country. McClellan differed. He thought we ought to avoid harshness and violence — that we should conduct the war so as to avoid offence as far as possible; — and said that if he thought as Watson did, he should feel obliged to lay down his arms.

It was during the same month that he told me of his plan for a rapid advance on Richmond, and gave me the assurance that he would take it by the middle of February; which induced me to assure the capitalists in New York that they could rely on his activity, vigor and success.

From the War Department I went to the President's, to whom I spoke of the resignation of Morgan and of substituting Garfield which seemed to please him. Spoke also of the financial importance of getting rid of McClellan; and expressed the hope that Halleck would approve his project of sending Mitchell to the Mississippi. On these points he said nothing. I then spoke of Jones, the Sculptor, and of the fitness of giving him some Consulate in Italy, which he liked the idea of. He read me a statement (very good) which he was preparing in reply to a letter from; in

New-Orleans, forwarded by Bullitt.

After some other talk and reminding him of the importance of a talk between me and Halleck about finances as affected by the war (by the way, he told me he desired Halleck to come and see me last Monday, but he did not come) I returned home. Was too late for church. Read various books — among others, Whitfield's life. What a worker!

Spent evening with Katie and Nettie, and read H. W. Beecher's last sermon in the Independent.

Not a caller all day. — O si sic omnes dies!

SOURCE: Annual Report of the American Historical Association for the Year 1902, Vol. 2, p. 50-1

Brigadier-General Don Carlos Buell’s General Orders No. 4a, January 20, 1862

GENERAL ORDERS No. 4a.

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO,

Louisville, Ky., January 20, 1862.

The general commanding takes occasion to thank Colonel Garfield and his troops for their successful campaign against the rebel force under General Marshall on the Big Sandy and their gallant conduct in battle. They have overcome formidable difficulties in the character of the country, the condition of the roads, and the inclemency of the season, and without artillery have, in several engagements, terminating with the battle on Middle Creek on the 10th instant, driven the enemy from his intrenched position and forced him back into the mountains with the loss of a large amount of baggage and stores and many of his men killed or captured. These services have called into action the highest qualities of a soldier – perseverance and courage.

By command of General Buell:

 JAMES B. FRY,

 Assistant Adjutant-Genera, and Chief of Staff.

SOURCES: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 7 (Serial No. 7), p. 24; William Ralston Balch, The Life of James Abram Garfield, p. 181-2

James A. Garfield to Burke A. Hinsdale, February 16, 1861

columbus, February 16th, 1861.

Mr. Lincoln has come and gone. The rush of people to see him at every point on the route is astonishing. The reception here was plain and republican, but very impressive. He has been raising a respectable pair of dark-brown whiskers, which decidedly improve his looks, but no appendage can ever render him remarkable for beauty. On the whole, I am greatly pleased with him. He clearly shows his want of culture, and the marks of Western life but there is no touch of affectation in him, and he has a peculiar power of impressing you that he is frank, direct and thoroughly honest. His remarkable good sense, simple and condensed style of expression, and evident marks of indomitable will, give me great hopes for the country. And, after the long, dreary period of Buchanan's weakness and cowardly imbecility, the people will hail a strong and vigorous leader.

I have never brought my mind to consent to the dissolution peaceably. I know it may be asked, Is it not better to dissolve before war than after? But I ask, Is it not better to fight before dissolution than after? If the North and South cannot live in the Union without war, how can they live and expand as dissevered nations without it? May it not be an economy of bloodshed to tell the South that disunion is war, and that the United States Government will protect its property and execute its laws at all hazards.

I confess the great weight of the thought in your letter of the Plymouth and Jamestown ideas, and their vital and utter antagonism. This conflict may yet break the vase by the lustiness of its growth and strength, but the history of other nations gives me hope. Every government has periods when its strength and unity are tested. England has passed through the Wars of the Roses and the days of Cromwell. A monarchy is more easily overthrown than a republic, because its sovereignty is concentrated, and a single blow, if it be powerful enough, will crush it.

Burke, this is really a great time to live in, if any of us can only catch the cue of it. I am glad you write on these subjects, and you must blame yourself for having made me inflict on you the longest letter I have written to any one in more than a year.

SOURCE: William Raston Balch, The Life of James Abram Garfield, p. 122

James A. Garfield to Burke A. Hinsdale, January 15, 1861

columbus, January 15th, 1861.

My heart and thoughts are full almost every moment with the terrible reality of our country's condition. We have learned so long to look upon the convulsions of European States as things wholly impossible here, that the people are slow in coming to the belief that there may be any breaking up of our institutions, but stern, awful certainty is fastening upon the hearts of men. I do not see any way, outside a miracle of God, which can avoid civil war with all its attendant horrors. Peaceable dissolution is utterly impossible. Indeed, I cannot say that I would wish it possible. To make the concessions demanded by the South would be hypocritical and sinful; they would neither be obeyed nor respected. I am inclined to believe that the sin of slavery is one of which it may be said that without the shedding of blood there is no remission. All that is left us as a State, or say as a company of Northern States, is to arm and prepare to defend ourselves and the Federal Government. I believe the doom of slavery is drawing near. Let war come, and the slaves will get the vague notion that it is waged for them, and a magazine will be lighted whose explosion will shake the whole fabric of slavery. Even if all this happen, I cannot yet abandon the belief that the government will rule this continent, and its people be one people.

Meantime, what will be the influence of the times on individuals? Your question is very interesting and suggestive. The doubt that hangs over the whole issue bears touching also. It may be the duty of our young men to join the army, or they may be drafted without their own consent. If neither of these things happen, there will be a period when old men and young will be electrified by the spirit of the times, and one result will be to make every individuality more marked and their opinions more decisive. I believe the times will be even more favorable than calm ones for the formation of strong and forcible characters.

Just at this time (have you observed the fact?) we have no man who has power to ride upon the storm and direct it. The hour has come, but not the man. The crisis will make many such. But I do not love to speculate on so painful a theme.  *  *  *  I am chosen to respond to a toast on the Union at the State Printers' Festival here next Thursday evening. It is a sad and difficult theme at this time.

SOURCE: William Raston Balch, The Life of James Abram Garfield, p. 121-2

Congressman James A. Garfield to Corydon E. Fuller, October 3, 1865

Hiram, O., October 3, 1865.

My Dear Corydon: — Your welcome letter of the 26th is received. It finds me at home, and, for the time being, a cripple. Four weeks ago I sprained my ankle precisely where it was sprained thirteen years ago, when we roomed together. You remember what a long siege I had with it then. I have not yet been able to use it, more than to bear a part of my weight upon it, and the rest on a cane. Indeed, I have had some fear that, in view of the former hurt in the same joint, it would be permanently injured, but I hope not.

I am greatly distressed to hear that your health is failing, so much so that you are compelled to resign your position in Washington. I beg of you to take all pains to restore your health first of all.

I was hard at work in the State campaign when my accident occurred. Since then I have made no speeches, nor shall I be able to make any more during the campaign. The early part of the season I was engaged in the oil business, and hope yet to realize something from my investments in that direction. I am trying to do a good deal of reading to prepare myself for the struggle which will be upon us when the 39th Congress meets. I look forward with great anxiety, not unmixed with alarm, at the signs of the times in the immediate political future. I fear that President Johnson is going too fast on the road toward reorganization. I fear it leads too far into rebeldom. I agree with you, that it would at least be decent to wait until the grass is green on the graves of our murdered patriots.

Your letter has made me very anxious for you. Be assured, my dear brother, that I cherish the same old love, and my heart responds as ever to all your joys and sorrows. With all my heart I am, as ever,

Your brother,

James.

P. S. — “John Jordan” came to hand a few' days ago. It was news to me in many particulars. Such is “rags and lampblack” fame.

J. A. G.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 392-3

Diary of Corydon E. Fuller: Saturday, March 4, 1865

The morning broke with black clouds and driving rain, and the prospect seemed exceedinglv gloomy. After breakfast I walked down to Pennsylvania avenue, under a dripping umbrella, and later, went to the Hall of Representatives. Spent an hour there, witnessing the close of the session. Nothing was done while I remained, except call the yeas and nays, amidst much confusion. The hour having arrived for the inauguration, I obtained a place in the mud, near the front of the platform, and stood there through the ceremonies. Many thousands were present; how many, I dare not attempt to guess. At 12 o'clock noon President Lincoln and Vice-President Johnson appeared upon the platform, which by that time was filled with Senators, Foreign Ministers, and other distinguished personages. The appearance of Mr. Lincoln was greeted with tumultuous shouts from the thousands gathered around, and after a short delay he arose and read his inaugural address. I heard every word of it. At its close, Chief Justice Chase arose and administered the oath of office, the President taking the Bible from his hands and kissing it, at the close of the oath. All the members of the Supreme Court were standing by. The crowd then began to disperse, amid the thunder of artillery which shook the Capitol, massive as it is, until the windows rattled at each explosion. I have omitted to mention that the rain ceased about half-past ten o'clock, and just as Mr. Lincoln arose to read his inaugural the sun burst through the clouds and shone full upon him and the company around him, as well as the thousands' gathered there. The remainder of the day and evening was glorious. Was the clearing up the stormy and unpropitious weather of the morning at midday an omen of the sunlight of success that shall soon gild the clouds that now hang so darkly around our national sky? Toward night I called at James' room and had a pleasant time until about eight o'clock. He is tired out, and seems worn down by the excessive labors of the session. I then went to the President's house, and after a long time succeeded in entering the east room. There were an immense number present. . . .

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 374-5

Congressman James A. Garfield to Corydon E. Fuller, November 24, 1864

Hiram, November 25, 1864.

My Dear Corydon: — Yours of the 13th came duly to hand. I am glad to inform you that Crete is now convalescent. She has had a terrible run of typhoid fever, which for some days seriously threatened her life, and which left her exceedingly weak and reduced; but she is now on her feet again and rapidly gaining strength.

I rejoice with you in the great victory, but greatly regret that your county is not redeemed from the dominion of the enemy. I think, however, that Fulton county can confidently say that if she has not won her first victory she has suffered her last defeat. After I left you I finished my appointments in Colfax's district, and then went to Ohio. My work grew heavier as the campaign drew on to its close, and I made eighteen speeches in the last two weeks preceding the Presidential election, and traveled nearly four thousand miles. I was thoroughly exhausted when the end came, but I am now quite well again, and hope to enter upon my winter's work in good health.

I start for Washington next week. I do not think Crete will be able to go before the holidays, when I intend to take her with me.

In regard to your own matters, I need not assure you how ready and willing I am to do all in my power to-aid you. I will see Colfax as soon as I get to Washington and consult with him on the best way to secure a place for you. If a place can be got by us two, it shall be.

Write me soon.

Ever truly yours,

James.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 368-9

Congressman James A. Garfield to Corydon E. Fuller, September 15, 1864

Hiram, September 15, 1864.

My Dear Corydon: — Yours of August 24th has lain unanswered for some time in consequence of my absence. I have just got home — temporarily broken down with a cold. I find myself overwhelmed with a world of work in the way of correspondence. I have, therefore, only time to say that I promised Colfax that I will speak for him from the 27th inst. to October 1st inclusive, beginning at Peru. I hope to see you and have you with me as much as possible. Crete and Almeda join me in love to you and Mary.

Ever yours,

James.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 360

Speaker Schuyler Colfax to Corydon E. Fuller, August 29, 1864

SOUTH BEND, Ind.,

August 29, 1864.

C. E. Fuller, Esq. — My Dear Sir: — I will be at Rochester Thursday, Sept. 22, when Mr. Wilson is to speak, without fail. Have to change my programme some to bring me in that part of the district at the time, but will do so.

Gen. Garfield has replied to my letter of last month, that he will come after filling his own appointments at home. I have mapped out a route for him as follows, and so written him (to avoid his leaving home before a Sunday):

Peru, Tuesday, Sept. 27, 1 P. M.

Rochester, Wednesday, Sept. 28, 1 P. M.

Plymouth, Thursday, Sept. 29, 1 P. M.

Westville, Friday, Sept. 30, 1 P. M.

South Bend, Saturday, Oct. 1, P. M.

At Westville I am to have a mass-meeting that day for La Porte and Porter counties.

I have asked him to write if this will suit. I thought better to have him the next week after, than to crowd Wilson, himself and myself all up into one meeting.

Yours, truly,

Schuyler Colfax.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 359

Congressman James A. Garfield to Corydon E. Fuller, February 9, 1864

House Of Representatives,

Washington, D. C, Feb. 9, 1864.

My Dear Corydon: —Yours of the 31st came duly to hand. I should be glad to be as prompt and punctual as in other days in answering your letters, but the crush of work in which I constantly find myself involved will not give me a solid moment that I can call my own. I grow weary, very weary, at the prospect of a life spent as I have been spending mine for the past five or six years. I have lived at home less than one year in the last three and a half, and it seems now as if my future gave no promise of home and rest this side the grave. I can not tell you how much I long to be once more free, and feel that a few days are my own to give to my own heart and to friendship; but it does not now look as though that time would ever come. The revolutionary times in which we are living will probably keep the whole of your life and mine in a whirl.

Your suggestions in reference to the excise law seem to be good and just. I will try to get them before the committee on that subject. There are no copies of Boutwell's book now left for distribution, but I may be able to find some of the old members who have a spare copy. If so, I will send it to you.

Give my love to Mary, and do excuse hasty and unworthy letters. I have sent you a copy of my speech on Confiscation.

Ever your brother,

J. A. Garfield.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 354

Congressman James A. Garfield to Corydon E. Fuller, December 13, 1863

Washington, Dec. 13, 1863.

My Dear Corydon: — On my arrival here one week ago, I found yours of the 1st of November awaiting me. I am sorry it was not forwarded to me, but it lay here with fifty or sixty others.

I had expected to get here some time before the session began, to secure rooms and take a more active part in the organization of the House, but I was detained at home for the saddest of reasons. We buried our precious little “Trot” the day before I left home. I sat by her bedside for nearly two weeks, watching the little dear one in her terrible struggle for life.

We had at length reached a point where the fever was over, and we had hopes of her recovery, when the diphtheria set in, and we were compelled to sit still and see her die. We buried her on the third day of December, at the very hour she would have reached the end of her fifth month of her fourth year.

I have no words to tell you how dreary and desolate the world is since the light of her little life has gone out. It seems as if the fabric of my life were torn to atoms and scattered to the winds. I try to be cheerful, and look up through the darkness and see the face of our Father looking upon me in love, but it is very, very hard. I will try to be cheerful.

“Yet in these ears till hearing dies

One set, slow bell will seem to toll

The passing of the sweetest soul

That ever looked with human eyes.”

You must pardon me, dear Corydon, if I seem almost dead to life and all that belongs to it.

My bereavement made me still more want to go back to the army, but the President did not think it safe to risk a vote, and so I resigned the Major Generalship and took my seat.

You have seen how triumphantly we elected your friend Colfax. I talked with him of you, and he spoke of you in high terms.

I wish I knew of some way in which I could assist you to a position which would put you into better opportunities for work and usefulness. Tell me if you find any place where I can be of service to you.

Give my love to Mary. I wish she would write to poor Crete, and I wish you would, too. You must forgive this hurried note, for I have a great crush of work upon me just now.

With much love, I am, as ever,

Your own,

James.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 344-5

Brigadier-General James A. Garfield to Corydon E. Fuller, May 4, 1863

Headquarters

Army Of The Cumberland,

Murfreesboro, May 4, 1863.

My Dear Corydon: — Yours of April 1 was received by the hand of Lieut. Beeber, and I assure you it was read with great pleasure. When I was in Washington last winter, I saw Mr. Colfax, who spoke very kindly and highly of you. I have now fully recovered my health, and for the last three months have been hardy and robust. My duties are very full of work here, and I have never been more pressingly crowded with labors than now. I have not retired, on an average, before two o'clock for the last two months and a half. Gen. Rosecrans shares all his counsels with me, and places a large share of the responsibility of the management of this army upon me, even more than I sometimes wish he did.

This army is now in admirable condition. The poor and weak material has been worked out, and what we now have is hard brawn and solid muscle. It is in an admirable state of discipline, and when its engineries are fully set in motion it will make itself felt.

From all the present indications, it can not be long before we meet the rebel army now in our front, and try its strength again. When the day comes, it bids fair to be the bloodiest fighting of the war.

One thing is settled in my mind: direct blows at the rebel army — bloody fighting — is all that can end the rebellion. In European wars, if you capture the chief city of a nation, you have substantially captured the nation. The army that holds London, Paris, Vienna, or Berlin, holds England, France, Austria, or Prussia. Not so in this war. The rebels have no city, the capture of which will overthrow their power. If we take Richmond, the rebel government can be put on wheels and trundled away into the interior, with all its archives, in two days. Hence our real objective point is not any place or district, but the rebel army wherever we find it. We must crush and pulverize them, and then all places and territories fall into our hands as a consequence.

These views lead me to hope and believe that before many days we shall join in a death-grapple with Bragg and Johnston. God grant that we may be successful. The armies are nearly equal in numbers, and both are full of valiant soldiers, well drilled and disciplined.

I am glad to hear of your success in the Chronicle, and especially in the triumph in your region over the copperheads.

The little circumstance you related to me of the soldier in the 51st Indiana, touches my heart. I wish you would write a letter for me to Joseph Lay, and express my sympathy with him for the loss of his brave son, who was many times with me under the fire of the enemy. I want to know of the health of his family, and especially of that little one to whom the affection of the father gave my name.

John E. McGowan is here, visiting me. He is a Captain in the 111th Ohio. He wishes to be kindly remembered. Give my love to Mary, and let me hear from you both. With the love of other days, I am, as ever,

Your brother,

James.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 336-7

Brigadier-General James A. Garfield to Corydon E. Fuller, September 5, 1862

Howland Springs, Trumbull Co., O.,

September 5, 1862.

My Dear Corydon: — Your kind letter of the 25th ult. was received a few days ago. I was exceedingly glad to hear from you. I have not heard from you for a long time, only by way of your paper, a copy of which has from time to time found its way into camp and reached me. I ought to have left the field two months ago, but I had hoped to ward off disease, but for being put on that miserable Court Martial, where I was shut up for near forty days in a hot room, where I could get no exercise; and at last I broke down. It was doubted by some whether I could live to get home. I lost forty-three pounds of flesh, and was so weak that I had to lie on a couch in the court the last ten days of my attendance. I had the jaundice very badly, and the chronic diarrhœa. I am getting better; indeed, I am nearly free from disease, but I am very weak. I have come away here to a quiet farmer's home, where there is a medicinal spring, and I could get rest away from the school and the crowd of visitors.

I hope to be able to take the field again in a few weeks. I have just received a telegram from Secretary Stanton, ordering me to report at Washington in person for orders, as soon as I am well enough. It is rumored that I am to have a larger command, but what and where I do not know. The doctor says I will not be fit for duty before the first of October, but I am very restive under this restraint, I assure you.

After so many months of preparation, there now seems to be a hope of active work, and it is a great trial to me to have to lie here and do nothing. Crete and Trot are with me, and but for the war I should be very glad to enjoy their society once more. Trot is twenty-six months old, and I have lived with her but eight months of that time.

On the 2nd inst. I was nominated to Congress from this district. I had taken no part in the canvass, and did not even attend the convention. It was a spontaneous act of the people.

The Eclectic is doing well. We have nearly two hundred students. I hope you may not fail in your paper. Can I aid you in any way? Let me know. Give my love to Mary. Crete joins me in love to you both. Let me hear from you again. Direct to Hiram, and if I am gone it will be forwarded to me.

With much love, I am, as of yore,

Your brother,

James.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 330

Colonel James A. Garfield to Capt. J. B. Fry, January 11, 1862

HEADQUARTERS EIGHTEENTH BRIGADE,

Prestonburg, Ky., January 11, 1862.

I left Paintsville on Thursday noon with 1,100 men, and drove in the enemy's pickets 2 miles beyond Prestonburg. The men slept on their arms. At 4 o'clock yesterday morning we moved toward the main body of the enemy at the Forks of Middle Creek, under command of Marshall. Skirmishing with his outposts began at 8 o'clock, and at 1 o'clock p.m. we engaged his force of 2,500 men and three cannon posted on the hill. Fought them until dark. Having been re-enforced by 700 men from Paintsville, drove the enemy from all their positions. He carried off the majority of his dead and all his wounded. This morning we found 27 of his dead on the field. His killed cannot be less than 60. We have taken 25 prisoners, 10 horses, and a quantity of stores. The enemy burned most of his stores and fled precipitately.

To-day I have crossed the river, and am now occupying Prestonburg. Our loss 2 killed and 25 wounded.

 J. A. GARFIELD,

 Colonel, Commanding Brigade.

Capt. J. B. FRY,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SOURCES: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 7 (Serial No. 7), p. 29; Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 324

James A. Garfield to Corydon E. Fuller, May 10, 1861

Columbus, May 10, 1861.

My Dear Corydon: — Your favor was duly received, but I have been away, and so overwhelmed with military matters that I have not been able till now to answer. I am glad to hear that you have succeeded in getting a paper. It was very mortifying to me to have a failure here in Ohio. Now that the piping times of war are upon us, I hope and believe you will be able to make a good thing out of it.

I have resolved that I can not remain quiet while the war is around us. I am going into it in some capacity.

I am sorry that I can not now accommodate you in the matter of money at this time. I have not drawn my pay for several weeks, and on the receipt of your letter I went to the Treasury, and found there was not a dollar there for members of the Legislature, and will not be for several weeks. I have not now money enough to pay my board and washing. I am very sorry indeed. I want you to write to me at once, and tell me if you have been able to secure the amount named. If not, I will hope to be able to get hold of some as soon as possible.

In the war now upon us, we can not tell the outcome either to individuals or to the nation. If I live through it, we shall some time meet again.

Love to Mary when she sees you, and believe me, ever and faithfully,

Your brother,

James.

SOURCE: Corydon Eustathius Fuller, Reminiscences of James A. Garfield: With Notes Preliminary and Collateral, p. 316

Brigadier-General James A. Garfield to Burke A. Hinsdale, May 26, 1863

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND,

MURFREESBUROUGH, May 26, 1863.

Tell all those copperhead students for me that, were I there in charge of the school, I would not only dishonorably dismiss them from the school, but, if they remained in the place and persisted in their cowardly treason, I would apply to Gen. Burnside to enforce General Order No. 38 in their cases. . . .

If these young traitors are in earnest they should go to the Southern Confederacy, where they can receive full sympathy. Tell them all that I will furnish them passes through our lines, where they can join Vallandigham and their other friends till such time as they can destroy us and come back home as conquerors of their own people, or can learn wisdom and obedience.

I know this apparently is a small matter, but it is only apparently small. We do not know what the developments of a month may bring forth, and, if such things be permitted at Hiram, they may anywhere. The Rebels catch up all such facts as sweet morsels of comfort, and every such influence lengthens the war and adds to the bloodshed.

SOURCE: Jonas Mills Bundy, The Life of Gen. James A. Garfield, p. 64