The country sustained great loss in his death.

I lamented him as almost a life-long companion.

We were at West Point together, and had served in the same regiment--the old 3d Artillery--upon first entering service, along with our present Commander-in-Chief, General Sherman, and General George H.Thomas.

When quite young we had fought in the same battles in Mexico.

There was little time, however, to indulge in these recollections.