s would fit him to
command his regiment, as it ought to be in all situations,
requires much study and practice, and is by no means easy.
He should, besides, possess good administrative qualities,
in order that affairs should run smoothly in his command,
and the officers and privates be as contented and happy as
circumstances admit. Nor can too much trouble be taken
properly to prepare persons to fill the responsible position
of officers. Each State should have its military academy. In
the meantime much good can be done by instituting a school
for the instruction of persons (especially those who have
had some experience in the service) who may have the
requisite capacity and zeal to serve their country with
advantage. Eschew all humbuggery and mere pretension, and
let merit be the test of advancement.

'Let it be impressed deeply on the conscience of every man
of influence and authority that when he places in command an
incompetent officer he is guilty of manslaughter. The
country has lost millions of treasure and thousands of lives
by the incompetency of officers. We have many enemies on
earth besides the Southern rebels. The fate of free
institutions, not only in our own country, but in other
lands, the destiny of millions unborn, depend upon our
ability to maintain this contest to a successful issue
against all our enemies, both foreign and domestic.

'The system of examination instituted by this Board, in my
opinion, should be extended to the white as well as colored
troops.

'Many of those who have been unsuccessful in the examination
before the Board have, no doubt, in some cases, felt
aggrieved, as also their friends.

'We have established a system of examination for officers,
the good effects of which are already apparent in the
colored organizations in the field. In the performance of
this responsible, and not always agreeable duty, of
presiding over this Board, I have always endeavored to be
guided by conscientious regard for the good of the country,
and I have every confidence that a just and intelligent
people will award their approbation.

SILAS CASEY,
_Bvt. Major-General U.S. Army._'"

Of course this did not apply to regiments raised at the Nort