I was aware that he had previously been named by the President for promotion to the grade of major-general, but that the Senate had rejected the nomination.

I was not aware of the reasons for this course, and therefore strongly recommended him for a major-generalcy.

My recommendation was heeded and the appointment made.
Upon the raising of the siege of Knoxville I, of course, informed the authorities at Washington--the President and Secretary of War--of the fact, which caused great rejoicing there.

The President especially was rejoiced that Knoxville had been relieved (*18) without further bloodshed.

The safety of Burnside's army and the loyal people of East Tennessee had been the subject of much anxiety to the President for several months, during which time he was doing all he could to relieve the situation; sending a new commander (*19) with a few thousand troops by the way of Cumberland Gap, and telegraphing me daily, almost hourly, to "remember Burnside," "do something for Burnside," and other appeals of like tenor.