I confess I rather like it myself, but Colonel Sherman here says it is not military; and I guess we had better defer to his opinion." In winding up, he explained that, as President, he was commander-in-chief; that he was resolved that the soldiers should have every thing that the law allowed; and he called on one and all to appeal to him personally in case they were wronged.

The effect of this speech was excellent.
We passed along in the same manner to all the camps of my brigade; and Mr.Lincoln complimented me highly for the order, cleanliness, and discipline, that he observed.

Indeed, he and Mr.Seward both assured me that it was the first bright moment they had experienced since the battle.
At last we reached Fort Corcoran.

The carriage could not enter, so I ordered the regiment, without arms, to come outside, and gather about Mr.Lincoln, who would speak to them.

He made to them the same feeling address, with more personal allusions, because of their special gallantry in the battle under Corcoran, who was still a prisoner in the hands of the enemy; and he concluded with the same general offer of redress in case of grievances.