n the War of Independence, and on Scott, for his conquest of Mexico. As
a reward for the victories of Donelson, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga,
Congress passed, and the President signed in February, 1864, an act to
revive that grade. Calling Grant to Washington, the President met him
for the first time at a public reception at the Executive Mansion on
March 8, when the famous general was received with all the
manifestations of interest and enthusiasm possible in a social state
ceremonial. On the following day, at one o'clock, the general's formal
investiture with his new rank and authority took place in the presence
of Mr. Lincoln, the cabinet, and a few other officials.

"General Grant," said the President, "the nation's appreciation of what
you have done, and its reliance upon you for what remains to do in the
existing great struggle, are now presented, with this commission
constituting you Lieutenant-General in the Army of the United States.
With this high honor devolves upon you, also, a corresponding
responsibility. As the country herein trusts you, so, under God, it will
sustain you. I scarcely need to add that with what I here speak for the
nation, goes my own hearty personal concurrence."

General Grant's reply was modest and also very brief:

"Mr. President, I accept this commission with gratitude for the high
honor conferred. With the aid of the noble armies that have fought on so
many fields for our common country, it will be my earnest endeavor not
to disappoint your expectations. I feel the full weight of the
responsibilities now devolving on me; and I know that if they are met,
it will be due to those armies, and above all to the favor of that
Providence which leads both nations and men."

In the informal conversation which followed, General Grant inquired what
special service was expected of him; to which the President replied that
the country wanted him to take Richmond; and being asked if he could do
so, replied that he could if he had the troops, which he was assured
would be furnished him. On the following day, Grant went to the Army of
the Potomac, where Meade received him with frank courtesy, generously
suggesting that he was ready to yield the command to any one Grant might
prefer. Grant, however, informed Meade that he desired to make no
change; and, returning to Washington, started west without a moment's
loss of time. On March 12, 1864, formal orders of the War Department
placed Grant in command