I think you have done rather better than I could have done, if I had undertaken to sit down twice a week and dictated a statement to be given out.

I have never had any criticism.

I also want to thank you for the consideration with which you have always treated the Presidential office during the time that I have been President.

The orderly management of our affairs is a perpetual test of our ability.

Nothing in this record indicates that such is the case in relation to Captain Rothwell, and I have therefore reluctantly come to the conclusion that I must return this act without my approval.

I suppose I shall keep it.

It is delightful to feel how the voice of one people speaks to another through the mouth of men who have by some gift of God been lifted above the common level and seen the light of humanity.

Confidence is the basis of everything that we must do.

I know him by what he has done.

There are certain advantages in being the only speaker and there are certain disadvantages.

I think generally that if they see the man and come into a sort of personal touch, they are more sympathetic with him in his difficulties.

We have passed through all the dangers of the navigation of the river.

Your splendid command has endured not only the hardships and sacrifices incident to campaign and battle, but in stress of heat and weather has triumphed over obstacles which would have overcome men less brave and determined.

His presence on the boat was in the line of duty, but he had no charge of the rest of the men.

I shall issue no new order on the subject at present.

Let us here give heed to the words of Abraham Lincoln.

The General in Chief is authorized, in his discretion, to issue an order substantially as the above forthwith, or so soon as he may deem proper.

He and his company are very agreeable to me, and while it is deemed proper for any guard to remain, none would be more satisfactory than Captain Derrickson and his company.