By some strange operation of magic I seem to have become the power of the land.

Stand by General Burnside as you have stood by me and all will be well.

As far as military necessity will permit, religiously respect the constitutional rights of all.

It is not given to our weak intellects to understand the steps of Providence as they occur: we comprehend them only as we look back upon them in the far-distant past.

Conscious of my own weakness, I can only seek fervently the guidance of the Ruler of the Universe, and, relying on His all-powerful aid, do my best to restore Union and peace to a suffering people, and to establish and guard their liberties and rights.

Here is a paper with which, if I cannot whip Bobbie Lee, I will be willing to go home!

The moment for action has arrived, and I know that I can trust in you to save our country.