With all my devotion to the Union, and the feeling of loyalty and duty of an American citizen, I have not been able to make up my mind to raise my hand against my relative, my children, my home. I have, therefore, resigned my commission in the Army.

I did only what my duty demanded. I could have taken no other course without dishonor.

I pray that on this day [Christmas] when only peace and good-will are preached to mankind, better thoughts may fill the hearts of our enemies and turn them to peace.

I have never witnessed on any previous occasion such entire disregard of the usage of civilized warfare and the dictates of humanity.

But what a cruel thing is war to separate and destroy families and friends.

Mr. Blair, I look upon secession as anarchy. If I owned the four millions of slaves in the South, I would sacrifice them all to the Union; but how can I draw my sword upon Virginia, my native State?

You see what a poor sinner I am, and how unworthy to possess what was given me; for that reason it has been taken away.