Roger Neilson II
Posts: 1517
Joined: 7/16/2006 From: Newcastle upon Tyne. England Status: offline
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To Viscount Palmerston, Prime Minister, British Empire Sir, as directed I presented my credentials to the American Government in Washington and received accreditation as an official observer in this squabble between our ex-colonials. In the first month of the conflict I have little of substance to report. You will doubtless be well informed about actual triumphs and reverses by the 'popular press' of which there is a large amount in this country. I will attempt to disclose and provide an elucidation that goes underneath this in the hope that this will act as a small, but hopefully useful footnote for my betters. In the border areas out west the Union forces have moved swiftly to secure territory west of the Mississippi, it would appear this was opposed by some half hearted militia who had rushed from their homes with whatever they had to hand. Likewise in West Virginia there have been unopposed moves to plant the Union flag. Aside from this there is much hooorahing, much bustle, and already there is a scent of money int he air for the factory owners who are gearing up to supply all and sundry items that the army will require, doubtless making a dollar or two in the process. There has been a draft declared and all over the country young men are rushing to enlist sometimes in most peculiar units. There is an air of amateurism around! One significant issue is the appearance of a J.E.B Stuart, who led a cavalry foray into the environs of Washington, causing mush dis consternation, some panic, the destruction of some rail tracks and the burning of some supplies. The Rebels seem to have found a somewhat dashing and troublesome leader who has, in the first month show he can venture where he will and disrupt the peace of the country. It remains to be seen whether this cavalry raiding strategy is a sustained one or an opportunistic one - and whether the union will find a remedy for this. My own humble opinion is that we shall see little serious campaigning this year, unless someone seizes an opportunistic moment, trounces the enemy and they sue for peace. More likely will be a time of training, equipping and moves after winter when the full campaigning season opens. I shall endeavor to report on a monthly basis to your honorable person. I remain your most humble and obedient servant. A.L. Freemantle, Col, Guards.
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< Message edited by Roger Neilson II -- 7/3/2008 6:18:19 AM >
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