City Point, August 31st, 1864.
I left the front at noon today, partly for a load of ice for the hospital, mainly to get my mail, if any had arrived, which I did not doubt. As to the first, I was successful, and hope to be with the latter tomorrow. It hardly seems the same place, so great have been the changes in two weeks. Nearly all the delegates have gone home. Men free to act—to come and go as they please—will not long endure the perils of this climate.
While the people at home are watching with eager eyes the progress of these armies, we, the members of these armies, are equally intent with the progress of events now transpiring in the North. The draft—the Chicago convention—the great conspiracy—all are subjects in which we take the deepest interest.
After all, I see more ground for hope than cause for fear in the immediate future. I do not believe the draft will be resisted to any extent. The conspiracy is rendered harmless by its publicity. The only fear 1 hear expressed is that the leaders may not be sufficiently punished. If the Administration is afraid to assume the responsibility at this critical period, let those leaders be persuaded to visit the army. I am quite sure they would be convinced it is poor policy to buy ammunition for traitors.
When I contemplate the present condition of the country, I am bewildered by the fearful magnitude of events now hurrying to completion.
