Let him who believes in the decline of the military spirit observe the boys of a common school during the recess or the noon hour.

Of course when American patriotism speaks out from its rank and file and demands action or expression, and when, thereupon, the 'business man,' so called, places his hand on his stack of reds as if he feared a policeman were about to disturb the game, and protests until American patriotism ceases to continue to speak as it had started to do--why, you and I get mad, and I swear.

I hope you will be with us here after March 4.

We can then pass judgment together on the things we don't like, and together indulge in hopes that I believe are prophetic." However, in the Navy Department we were able to do a good deal, thanks to the energy and ability of some of the bureau chiefs, and to the general good tone of the service.

I soon found my natural friends and allies in such men as Evans, Taylor, Sampson, Wainwright, Brownson, Schroeder, Bradford, Cowles, Cameron, Winslow, O'Neil, and others like them.