John Sherman: “No assessments for political purposes, on officers or subordinates, should be allowed.”

What I have written is no doubt clouded with partisanship, but I would not be honest if I did not express my attachment to my party.

The life of a civilian is in what he says or writes, that of a soldier in what he does.

The events of the future are beyond the vision of mankind, but I hope our people will be content with internal growth, and avoid the complications of foreign acquisitions.

If my life is prolonged I will do all I can to add to the strength and prosperity of the United States, but nothing to extend its limits or to add new dangers by acquisition of foreign territory.