Barrett's Ferry Chickahominy           

Aug 17 2^h30^m PM /62

 

General

            I have had this morning a full conversation with Genl Burnside. To be perfectly frank with you I must say that I did think from some of your recent telegrams that you were not disposed to treat me in a candid or friendly manner—this was the more grating to me because I was conscious that although I differed from you in opinion I had done so with entire frankness & loyalty, & that I had not delayed one moment in preparing to carry out your orders

 

I am glad to say that Burnside has satisfied me that you are still my friend—in return I think he can satisfy you that I have loyally carried out your instructions, although my own judgment was not in accordance with yours.

 

Let the past take care of itself—so long as we remain in command of this Army I will faithfully carry out the new programme.

 

I feel quite confident that I will have everything across the Chickahominy by daylight. If all is then / quiet I will regard my command as reasonably safe & will feel justified in moving it [?] with [?] to its speedy embarkation

 

very respectfully & truly yours

G B M^cClellan

Maj Genl

 

Maj Genl H W Halleck                                                          

            Cmdg U.S. Army                                                                   

                        Washington D.C.

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