Lothrop Motley to William H. Seward, April 16, 1865

Mr. Motley to Mr. Seward

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch No. 132, of date 21st of March, containing military intelligence, especially concerning General Sheridan’s splendid successes, of which the importance can scarcely, I think, be exaggerated.

The details of General Sherman’s wonderful campaign reach us slowly, but are studied with intense care, and it would be difficult for me to describe the emotions of pride and patriotic exultation with which we follow the career of this daring and most sagacious chieftain. Who can doubt that the cause of civilization and of human freedom must triumph under the guidance of such military genius as it now possesses?

I have the honor to remain, sir, your obedient servant,