My dear Sir. Washington, Aug. 16. 1862
I was painfully surprised by your letter, handed me by the P.M.G.; because the Secretary of War, who saw you after I did, had assured me, that you and accompanying friends, were fully satisfied with what he had undertaken to do. Since receiving your letter, I have seen him again, and he again assures me that such was his understanding. I went over your eight points with him to see which he accepted, and which he rejected.
He rejects that about postponing drafting till the 15th. of September.
He accepts that about the 3rd. Delaware Regiment.
He accepts that about Col. Grimshaw's Regiment.
He accepts that about the battery of Artillery, if it be the battery heretofore authorized.
He accepts that about the Battalion of Cavalry.
He accepts that about forces remaining in the State.
He rejects that about drafting being made under the Marshal of the District. He thinks he could not be justified to thus snub the Governor who is apparently doing right, but he will at once check anything which may be apparently wrong.
He accepts that about appointing officers by the War Department---unless some serious, and now unforeseen obstacle shall be presented.
I do hope you will be able to get along upon this. The Secretary feels very sure that Judge Gilpin2Open page thinks you can. I mean this as a private letter, but I am quite willing for you to show it to Judge Gilpin.
I do hope you will not indulge a thought which will admit of your saying the administration turns you over to the fury of your enemies.
You certainly know I wish your success as much as you can wish it yourself. Your friend, as ever A. LINCOLN