Brownson thanks Henry for the birthday present he sent him through his brother Ned and quotes the postmaster Major Leslie in regard to the government's lack of funds. General Burnside's failure has deeply grieved and chagrined Brownson but he retains his confidence in him and the whole army. Burnside's recent letter to Halleck puts a better face on the gloomy situation and assumes the whole responsibility. Burnside's proferred resignation is straightforward and manly but Brownson fears it will not be accepted, but if he thinks Abe Franklin should be his successor. Brownson discusses the fictitious reputation of both Sigel and McDowell and blames Lincoln for his cooperation with McClellan on the Peninsula issue. Brownson suggests that Banks replace Stanton, whom he has given up. He discusses his recent Review in which he condemns the Administration and the nigger policy of President Lincoln. Brownson is not an abolitionist, though strongly opposed to slavery, and urges abolition only as a means of prosecuting the war. Brownson declares that there are no military reasons for the President's blunder and usurpation and cannot be justified by military necessity. This "compensated emancipation" if adopted would free no slaves but would put millions into the hands of President Lincoln's creatures. Holding Lincoln responsible for all the miscarriages and claiming that Seward follows the President rather than vice versa, Brownson has called upon Lincoln to resign. Brownson urges Henry to write concerning his whereabouts and activities in addition to his future plans and tells him that the turn of events have left him with a little influence on the Administration, Governor Andrew being a possible exception. Brownson refuses to ask the President for anything and of Stanton he is distrustful. He acknowledges Henry's command of two 26 powder batteries and asks whether he intends remaining on Colonel Hay's staff or to take a battery. Brownson urges Henry to use his influence with Ned in order to make him study military knowledge because Brownson is assured that Ned will never be a military man, pride and laziness preventing fulfillment of his ambition. Brownson has unsuccessfully contested a seat in Congress and maintains that he consented only to please Sarah and Edward Brownson. He questions the success of his Review for the coming year but finally dispels his private grief with grief for his country. Hearing of disaster for the Army of the Cumberland, under General Rosecrans he is afraid lest the rivers fail to rise and prevent supplies from reaching the army but trusts in God who alone can help them. :: III-3-a A.L.S. 2pp 4to.