Annotation
[1] AES, NNP. Lincoln's endorsement is written on a letter from Brigadier General Henry H. Lockwood, Headquarters, Middle Department, Baltimore, Maryland, March 21, 1864:
``When I had the honor to see Your excellency, you intimated that I would not be removed from the command of this Dept. except for cause. An order having been issued for my removal, I infer that there exists some cause. My object in troubling you with this letter is to know if this cause be personal military or political. If the latter then I have nothing more to say, as being no politician I cannot pretend to comprehend the operations of the political world. But if the cause be either personal or military, I hold my reputation too dear not to seek, very respectfully an explanation, and set the honored head of the state right, if any one has maligned me. This letter is taken by my confidential officer and friend Lt. Col. [George V.] Massey, who awaits a brief interview with you, and who being privy to all my doings can refute any erroneous impressions you may have recd. respecting me.''
AGO General Orders No. 97, March 12, 1864, assigned Major General Lewis Wallace to command of the Middle Department.