Abraham Lincoln papers

1 From Edward O. C. Ord to Abraham Lincoln , December 28, 1860

1 ID: Edward O.C. Ord, a West Point graduate and career army officer, was promoted to brigadier general of volunteers in September 1861. Ord was made a major general in 1862 and held several important field commands during the course of the war. Ord retired from the army in 1881 as a major general.

Fort Monroe Old Point Comfort Va

Decr 28th 1860

2 Sir — Having seen and heard remarks to the effect that Col Fremont, was to be your Secretary of War — allow me with a view to serve my country to the best of my ability, to state that as Col F was tried, found guilty & sentenced for the highest military offence — he is likely to have no love for the Army. I have reason to know this is so — and that a majority of the court was in favor of a sentence of death— Hence Col F would not be apt to command respect of officers—

2 John C. Fremont

It may be worth your while to know that John Sherman M C. of Ohio — has a brother who is son in law of Thos. Ewing — and who is now President of the Louisiana State Military Academy selected 3 for his military ability & possessing the confidence of good men north and south— Mr Ewing can inform you of his principles— Officers of the Army will unite in expressions of respect for Capt Shermans ability—

3 Ord is of course referring to William Tecumseh Sherman.

This remark sir is offered without consultation with or the knowledge of any one by,

E. O. C. Ord

Capt. 3d Arty. USA

Abraham Lincoln papers http://www.loc.gov/resource/mal.0539200