It
multiplied our misfortunes, gave a deeper wound to our grief and
sorrow, and brought disgrace on our arms.
I will pass over these misfortunes as lightly, my son, as possible,
hoping only that they will serve us as a warning in the future.
Having buried Burnside deep under the misfortunes of his own
incapacity, the question again came up, where shall we find a
general to do up these rebels for us, and gain us a little victory?
The great Grant was doing wonders for us in the West. He was bold,
earnest, and brave. And this was the secret of his success. But in
the East we were sorely troubled for some one who could do
something.
General Hooker was brave and bold. But, my son, he had such a
weakness for blowing his own trumpet. Yes, he could blow it as loud
and as long as any trumpeter you ever listened to--Pope excepted. He
had declared of himself that he was just the man to lead our army to
victory, and give the enemy a sound thrashing. It was true, this
general had been very insubordinate. He had said a number of things,
neither wise nor polite, of his superiors. And he had set an example
to his soldiers not inclined to improve their discipline.
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