glad to "arbitrate" if we ask
them to.

CHAPTER XXIV
Superintendent at West Point--General Sherman's Ulterior Reasons
for the Appointment--Origin of the "Department of West Point"--Case
of the Colored Cadet Whittaker--A Proposed Removal for Political
Effect--General Terry's Friendly Attitude--A Muddle of New Commands
--Waiting Orders, and a Visit to Europe--Again in Command in the
West--The Establishment of Fort Sheridan at Chicago.

In the centennial year, 1876, I committed the mistake of my life
by consenting, in deference to the opinions and wishes of my
superiors and in opposition to my own judgment and interests, to
give up the command of a military division appropriate to my rank
of major-general, and accept a position which by law and custom
was appropriate to the rank of colonel. The following extracts
from correspondence will sufficiently explain the reasons for this
extraordinary action, and the assurances which induced it:

"(Telegram.)
"Washington, D. C., March 28, 1876.
"General John M. Schofield, San Francisco, California:

"Will you accept the superintendency of the military academy at
West Point? I advise it. Your rank and history will elevate it
and solve all trouble. Admiral Porter's example at Annapolis is
suggested as precedent. The President, Secretary Taft, and I are
unanimous on the wisdom and propriety of it. Advise me of your
decision as early as you can--certainly this week. You will be
subject to no supervision except by the usual board of visitors
and the general commanding the army.

"W. T. Sherman, General."

"(Telegram.)
"San Francisco, Cal., March 29, 1876.
"General Sherman, Washington, D. C.:

"I appreciate the importance of the superintendency of the academy,
and the compliment paid me by the President, Secretary of War, and
yourself in desiring me to accept it. Under the circumstances I
cannot decline. . . .

"J. M. Schofield, Major-General."

"(Telegram.)
"Headquarters of the Army,
"Washington, D. C., March 30, 1876.
"General J. M. Schofield, San Francisco, California.

"Despatch received, and am much pleased; think you could add new
luster to the old academy. It has always needed a head with rank
and experience, and now I am sure that the whole country will be
satisfied. . . . I am not yet resolved on my own course of action,
but will be governed by events to occur in this week.

"W. T. Sherman, General."