New Creek, West Virginia, April 12, 1865.
Dearest: — I wonder if you feel as happy as I do. The close of the war, “home again,” darling and the boys and all to be together again for good! And the manner of it too! Our best general vindicated by having the greatest victory. General Crook too. Did you see, it was his immediate command that captured so much, which Sheridan telegraphs about — the wagons, Armstrong guns, etc., etc.? All most gratifying.[1]
My expedition into the mountains will no doubt be given up, although we are still preparing.
I am well satisfied with present matters personally, and think I am rather fortunate, all things considered. I decide nothing at present. I wish you to be ready to join me on very short notice. It is not likely I shall send for you, but I may do so any day if you would like to come.
My notion is that an extra session of Congress soon is a likely thing to occur. That will be known in a week or two. — Love to all. “So much.”
As ever
R.
P. S. — My pictures being in demand, I have got another.
Mrs. Hayes.
[1] Dr. J. T. Webb writing to his mother from Winchester, April 13, 1865, says: — “It must be pleasant to those worthies who put on so much style to reflect that while there was fighting to be done here in this valley, Sheridan and Crook were here; now that the fighting has been transferred to Richmond, they [the worthies] are sent here and Crook and Sheridan taken off down there. It’s all style and airs — very offensive to sensible people, but as the war is about over, it matters but little who commands. Were there an enemy in our front, I should not fancy our generals. As it is they are very good for fuss and feathers, great on revers, etc., — about all they are suited for.”
