lains satisfactorily the conduct of the enemy, who seemed to make no
attempt whatever to follow our returning troops.

While yet the rain was drenching our weary boys, on the sixth, General
Hooker issued a congratulatory order to them and the country, in which
are to be found the following characteristic passages:

"The Major-General commanding tenders to this army his congratulations
on its achievements of the last seven days. If it has not accomplished
all that was expected, the reasons are well known to the army. It is
sufficient to say they were of a character not to be foreseen nor
prevented by human sagacity or resources.

"In withdrawing from the south bank of the Rappahannock before
delivering a general battle to our adversaries, the army has given
renewed evidence of its confidence in itself and its fidelity to the
principles it represents. In fighting at a disadvantage, we would have
been recreant to our trust, to ourselves, our cause, and our country.
Profoundly loyal, and conscious of its strength, the Army of the Potomac
will give or decline battle whenever its interest or honor may demand.
It will also be the guardian of its own history and its own honor.

"By our celerity and secrecy of movement, our advance and passage of the
rivers was undisputed, and, on our withdrawal, not a Rebel ventured to
follow.

"The events of the last week may swell with pride the heart of every
officer and soldier of this army. We have added new lustre to its former
renown. We have made long marches, crossed rivers, surprised the enemy
in his intrenchments, and, wherever we have fought, have inflicted
heavier blows than we have received. We have taken from the enemy five
thousand prisoners and fifteen colors; captured and brought off seven
pieces of artillery; placed _hors de combat_ eighteen thousand of his
chosen troops; destroyed his depots filled with a vast amount of stores;
deranged his communications; captured prisoners within the
fortifications of his capital, and filled his country with fear and
consternation. We have no other regret than that caused by the loss of
our brave companions; and in this we are consoled by the conviction that
they have fallen in the holiest cause ever submitted to the arbitrament
of battle."

This order, if not perfectly satisfactory to the country and to the
authorities, was generally hailed with applause by the army, which
recognized in its sagacious rendering of our difficulties an