May 28, 1862, Lincoln to McClellan

Lincoln's redirection of General McDowell's troops away from General George McClellan on the Peninsula below Richmond greatly upset McClellan, who wired the President, "It is the policy and duty of the Government to send me by water all the well-drilled troops available." Lincoln's reply illustrates his increasing frustration with McClellan, as well as his appreciation of the limitations of what could be said in an impersonal electronic message. After telling McClellan he was "painfully impressed" by the General's position, he added, "I shall aid you all I can consistently with my view of due regard to all points." The president's frustration then boiled over and he added, " and last I must be the Judge as to the duty of the government in this respect." Upon reflection Lincoln crossed out the last line.