One day last week, Gen. Buell and all the brigadiers of the department who were present, went in a body to call upon Mrs. James K. Polk, and her niece, daughter of the ex-Rev. Gen. Leonidas. Mrs. Polk seemed determined that no doubt should be entertained as to her sentiments in regard to our unhappy difficulties. The gentlemen present, as they were severally addressed, simply bowed in silence, until Gen. Mitchel, who was standing somewhat away from the party, was singled out. To him Mrs. Polk remarked: “ General, I trust this war will speedily terminate by the acknowledgment of Southern independence.” The remark was the signal for a lull in the conversation, and all eyes were turned upon the General to hear his reply.
He stood with his lips firmly compressed and his eyes looking fully into those of Mrs. Polk, as long as she spoke. He then said: “ Madam, the man whose name you bear was once the President of the United States; he was an honest man and a true patriot; he administered the laws of this government with equal justice to all. We know no independence of one section of our country which does not belong to all others, and judging by the past, if the mute lips of the honored dead, who lies so near us, could speak, they would express the hope that this war might never cease, if that cessation was purchased by the dissolution of the Union of States over which he once presided.” It is needless to say the effect was electrical, made as the remark was, in a calm, dignified tone, and with that earnestness for which the General is noted; no offence could be taken.
