This the rebels have done, not only in Maryland and Pennsylvania, but also in Virginia and other rebel States, when compelled to fall back before our armies.

In many sections of the country they have not left a mill to grind grain for their own suffering families, lest we might use them to supply our armies.

We most do the same.
I have endeavored to impress these views upon our commanders for the last two years.

You are almost the only one who has properly applied them.

I do not approve of General Hunter's course in burning private homes or uselessly destroying private property.
That is barbarous.