Headquarters First Infantry Division,
Department Of West Virginia,
Camp Hastings, Near Cumberland, March 4, 1865.
Dear Sir: — I am just in receipt of yours of the 25th. As to going to Washington, if it is so important to our friend’s success, I must strain a point to get there.
The kidnapping of our two generals and the state of things growing out of Sheridan’s absence with all the mounted men of this region makes it imperative that I should for the present stay where I am. A few weeks will probably change all this — possibly a few days. Who am I to look to for the truth when I get to Washington? I think you told me that Barrett was both friendly and well informed in these matters. I have written to him today on this supposition.
Write to me frequently and fully and oblige.
Sincerely,
R. B. Hayes.
William Henry Smith,
Secretary Of State,
Columbus, Ohio.
