Sherman, William Tecumseh (1820-1891) to Edward Ord re: his opinion of Ulysses S. Grant in war and politics
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06423 Author/Creator: Sherman, William Tecumseh (1820-1891) Place Written: Washington Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1871/08/11 Pagination: 4 p. 20.3 x 12.7 cm Order a Copy
"His strongest & only safe card is his military career. At the game of politics I think he loses more than he gains, for he bends too much [to] importunity and listens to exparte statements." With two hole punches at left edge
Headquarters Army of the United States.
Washington D.C. Aug 11 1871
Genl Ord, San Frano.
Dear Ord,
Yours of Aug 3rd is received. I have seen the Secretary of War, who says that [illegible] is a persistent fellow. that he came to him with Senators Nye & Stewart and had to be heard &c but that nothing transpired to your prejudice, but quite the Contrary.
Should your Command Ever be changed it will result from a general [2] ship made necessary by the Presidents Orders, which he delayed at my personal request last Spring. - viz to break up all the Military Divisions Except that of Sheridan. I shal not reopen the Subject unless he Again resends it.
Grant is now down at Long Branch and will not come here[.] I am on short visits till late in September. He thinks the White House unhealthy which is true. And he wisely takes his family & servants away. [3] He is trying to play Politician; and thinks he does it successfully - but his strongest & only safe card is his past Military Concern. At the game of Politics I think he loses more than he gains, for he bends too much to personal importunity and listens to ex parte statements.
My family is all away up at St. Albans and will come home Early in September in time for the opening of the Schools. [4] I hope your family is all well & happy in your home of stream & flowers on Black Point. My best love to Mrs Ord and the family brood -
Ever Yr friend,
Sherman
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