Simon Cameron to Mcclellan, U. S. A, December 26, 1861
Washington, December 26, 1861.
GENERAL: Your letter of the 21st is received. You are correct in your belief *that there is a growing distrust among a portion of the people as to the activity and usefulness of this (your) portion of the Army.” I do not share in that distrust, for my confidence in your ability is very great. I must confess, however, that I am constrained to believe that all the operations of our Army have been too much delayed, and that there has been too great a desire to avoid responsibility rather than force the enemy into early action. The fact seems to be overlooked that while we are preparing our enemy is also engaged in preparation, and that, being in his own country, he can do so much more rapidly than ourselves. It will give me much pleasure to hear from you frequently. I shall be especially glad at this time to know the actual force under your command, the number of troops you need, and the kind of which you are most in want. You refer in your letter toa want of cavalry. This is the first intimation I have had that any were needed by you. Let me know the number required and they shall be sent at once, as well as any other force that you may deem necessary.
At this distance from the field of your operations this Department will not attempt to give you specific instructions. You will have to rely upon your own judgment, in which I have every confidence; but let me add that I trust you will soon be able to accomplish something. Winter is now half over; spring is coming, and our forces must soon be useless in a region so far south.
very respectfully and truly, yours,
Secretary of War.
Port ROYAL, S. ©., December 26, 1861.
General MCCLELLAN, U. S. A.,
Washington, D. C.:
GENERAL: I have been unable to get Commodore DuPont to investigate with me the problem of Charleston, and, as time is important, I
have conferred with Captain Gillmore on the subject confidentially, and
after the most serious deliberation of his views and my own have come