not care to venture the attempt to become a
cadet.

At the time I obtained the appointment I had quite
forgotten this early recommendation of my father's
friend; indeed, I did not recall it until I began
compiling my manuscript.

The suggestion given me by the conversation above
mentioned was at once acted upon, and decision
made in a very short time; and so fully was I
determined, so absolutely was my mind set on
West Point, that I persisted in my desire even
to getting the appointment, staying at the Academy
four years, and finally graduating. The following
communications will explain how I got the
appointment.*

*It has been impossible for the author to obtain
copies of his own letters to the Hon. Congressman
who appointed him, which is to be regretted. The
replies are inserted in such order that they will
readily suggest the tenor of the first
communications.

Reply No. 1


GRIFFIN, January 23,1873.