Richmond Va Novr 30^th 1864

 

Dear Sir

            I received your letter yesterday. I got Maj Henry Lyons relation Ben Hill and we went to see the president this morning. He made the appointment unhesitatingly. You may rest assured it gives me a great deal of pleasure, for to think you deserve it and I feel confident you will be an honor to the state. Tennessee is behind no state and here we are very proud of her mark in this terrible struggle. Her sons who have been promoted have almost to a man done well and I feel assured we will have reason to be proud of you as a Tennessee General if the war lasts. You now have a chance of making a mark and such energy as you have, well directed, never yet failed in anything but especially in the military / where energy is everything.

 

If Congress adjourns soon I shall come immediately to Tennessee. We are getting along here harmoniously and military matters look well. Certainly our boys in Tennessee will now come to the scratch. there is no mistaking the Lincoln policy now.

 

You know I was slow to go into and cooperate in the southern movement. I did not recognise, and dont now recognise the abstract doctrine of Secession. But the Lincoln policy cuts off debate. Who can stand the negro policy of the Lincoln Government? Certainly Tennesseeans are now ready. If we can make a good Campaign in Tennessee the Yankee Armmy will back down.

 

if it does they are gone.

 

yours truly

A S [?]

 

Genl B J Hill     

SOURCES