July 30th. 1864.
I hear tremendous explosions and repeated volleys of musketry in the direction of the Ninth Corps today. Can it be that Burnside’s mine has been exploded and that our forces now occupy Petersburg?
I see by the papers Secretary Chase has resigned. Mr. Chase is a politician, and is ambitious; he has worked three years, with all his mighty intellect, for the Presidency. In this he failed; he withdraws from the Cabinet to further his own schemes. I may judge him harshly, but I can not forget Fremont.
Can it be really true that my countrymen are despondent at the prospect of another “call” for men? Would they enjoy all the benefits to be derived from this war and share none of its perils? Are their lives too precious to be put in jeopardy? Have they become so degenerate as to make Mammon their idol?
Another appalling blunder has been perpetrated. Part of the Rebel works were blown up yesterday, and an assault was made by the Ninth Corps, which resulted in failure. Their works were carried, but, for want of support, could not be maintained.
