Stephen A. Hurlbut to Richard Yates

Headquarters, Department of the Gulf,

New Orleans, Nov 26th 1864.

Dear Genl

I received yours of 16th covering letter for Mrs. Rariden. The pass requested will be given and the letter sent by the first opportunity

I am glad that the necessities of our friend Gillett brought me back to the recollection of my friends. I congratulate most sincerely upon the magnificent result in Illinois & trust that our friends there will not fritter away in personal quarrels & schemes this splendid opportunity. I look forward hopefully to the opportunity of an honorable retirement from the Mil Service in the spring.

The confediracy will be cloven in two fatally by the march of Sherman and

Headquarters, Department of the Gulf,

New Orleans, 1864.

Thomas with the help of sudden levies if necessary must meet Hood. I do not know Enough of Grant's affairs to be certain, but if he can't take Richmond, within a month let him wait till Sherman reduces Savannah and call his veterans round by sea, capturing Wilmington moving thence North to Petersburgh & so to Richmond. I doubt only Grant's capacity. I do not think he has brains Enough for his immense duties. Sherman is without any doubt immeasurably superior to any man we have. I am chained here running the remnants left from Banks administration & work like a gally slave. Remember me to the faithful

Yours

S A Hurlbut

Hurlburt Gen'l S A.

New Orleans. Nov 26th 64

Received Yours of 16th in relation to Mrs Raridan. The Pass requested will be given.

Congratulates on success of Election, and hopes the friends of our Party will not fritter away into quarrels & Schemes during this excellent opportunity.

Thinks Sherman is much superior to Grant or any man we have.

Is running the remnants of Banks administration & works like a gally slave

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