WEST POINT
The following letter to his uncle William, written immediately after his
arrival at West Point, vividly portrays the mingled emotions that
stirred the heart of the raw but ambitious country youth on reaching the
goal of his boyish hopes,--his ardent patriotism, awakened by the
historic scenes about him; his ambition and determination to be first in
his class, "by unflinching resolution, indomitable perseverance, fixing
his whole soul upon the object he wishes to attain with concentrated and
undivided attention;" his gratitude to his uncle and friends for his
appointment, and his affectionate regard for his family. It is also
significant of his self-reliant character that he expresses no fears in
regard to the impending examination for admission, but remarks, with
well-grounded confidence, that "there can be no difficulty in sustaining
myself with honor and respectability."
WEST POINT, June 13, 1835.
DEAR UNCLE,--I now enjoy the long-anticipated happiness of
addressing you from West Point. And perhaps you may ask, does it
meet my expectations? I am not prepared to answer this question
fully at present, but will say that I like my situation, although
subject to very strict regulations, and fully believe there can be
no difficulty in obeying every regulation and sustaining myself with
honor and respectability. And be assured that I always shall
consider myself greatly indebted to you for your kind exertions in
my behalf, and it shall be my determination to demean myself in such
a manner as to convince you and all my friends that their exertions
have not been thrown away. Here I am surrounded by young men from
every State in the Union, who are eagerly endeavoring to arrive at
distinction, many of whom have determined, and, what is better
still, will make every exertion to carry their resolve into effect,
to be first in their class.
Every one must buckle on his armor for the conflict: let him be
girded with unflinching resolution, indomitable perseverance,
decision and firmness of mind, singleness of purpose, integrity of
heart, let him fix his _whole_ soul upon the object he wishes to
attain with concentrated and undivided attention, and he will
undoubtedly, with scarcely the possibility of a doubt, obtain the
post of honor.
The first class graduated yesterday. The whole number attached to
this class was 54, which is the greatest number that ever graduated
at any one time from this institution. There were splendid fireworks
last evening, which lasted until nine o'clock. All the cadets were
permitted to partake of the sport. It is said that the cadets who
leave here are so affected that they even shed tears. Is it to be
wondered at? Is there a spot in the whole United States which is
associated with so many hallowed and pleasing recollections of the
patriotism, of the struggles, and of the victories of our
Revolutionary fathers? We are as it were in the cradle of liberty,
in the stronghold of freedom, and may we be scions worthy of the
tears and of the blood of our Revolutionary sires: may I not
disgrace my country, my State, and that character of proud disdain
and patriotic valor which inspired the heroes of Andover on the morn
of Bunker's fight; and above all may I cherish that love of freedom
and sympathy for the sufferings of mankind which characterized the
life of Washington, of Kosciusko, and the other worthies of the
Revolution; and in fine may I cherish a heart full of gratitude for
those kind friends who by their exertions have assisted me to
procure my present situation. I shall be examined Monday, and the
encampment will be pitched on Tuesday. We shall have no uniforms
until the 4th of July, at which time the new cadets mount guard. As
soon as I have entered upon the active duties of the station, I
shall again write to Andover. Give my love to father, mother,
brother and sisters, to your own family, and all inquiring friends,
remembering me especially to grandmother. I remain your grateful
nephew,
ISAAC I. STEVENS.
WM. STEVENS, ESQ.
He entered the academy resolved to place himself at the head of his
class, not in presumptuous or ignorant self-confidence, but fully
recognizing the arduous struggle before him. A boy of seventeen, with
scanty advantages of education, but inured to hard work and hard study,
he did not hesitate to contest the palm with youths older and far better
prepared than himself, of whom two at least had received a collegiate
education, and had publicly avowed their determination to attain the
first place. These were Henry W. Halleck, of New York, distinguished as
major-general, and at one time commanding the army in the war of the
Rebellion, and Henry J. Biddle, of Philadelphia, both of whom were older
in years, of assured social position and wealthy connections,
accomplished French scholars, and well up in mathematics; and one may
fancy the derision with which they regarded the rivalry of the
undersized farmer's boy from Andover.
"One evening," says General E.D. Townsend, late adjutant-general of
the army, "a classmate of mine, who was very fond of mathematics,
General Israel Vogdes, came to my room, and told me there was a
'Plebe' just entered from my State, who was a fine mathematician
already, and would stand 'head of his class in math.' This
interested me, and I went around to offer to assist my
fellow-statesman in entering on his career. This was previous to his
first encampment. I found Mr. Stevens a modest, straightforward
young man, who, in reply to my offer of any assistance I could give
him, informed me he wanted to stand head of his class,--that he was
not afraid of mathematics, but knew nothing whatever of French. I at
once suggested to him to do what was sometimes but not often done,
to apply for permission to take lessons during the encampment of one
of the professors, for which a small compensation would be allowed
to be deducted from Mr. Stevens's pay. He caught at this idea, and
subsequently carried it out. The result was he stood fourteenth in
French in the first January examination, and first in mathematics.
This did not satisfy him, as I found on congratulating him on what
I deemed a most creditable standing. The next June examination, by
his untiring application, he stood head both in mathematics and
French. There were some four young men in his class who were ripe
scholars when they entered West Point, and who were by no means
wanting in studious habits.
"The following year, drawing was added to the course. Mr. Stevens
came to me for more advice, saying he had not the slightest notion
of drawing. I suggested to him, first, great care in his outlines to
get them accurate, and then, if he found on trial that he had no
talent for shading, that by using a very fine-pointed crayon, and
making with patience and care light, smooth marks, he might succeed
in producing a well-finished and pretty picture. He came to me
shortly after to say that he had improved upon my hint, for he first
filled in the outline with a fine pencil, and then traced over this
with a coarse one the prominent lines of the picture. Well, he stood
head in drawing, and this although at least one of his competitors
was quite expert with his pencil before he entered the academy. As
might be expected from the beginning, Mr. Stevens graduated at the
head of his class in every branch throughout the course."
Among his classmates, who afterwards rose to be generals in the army,
will be recognized Henry W. Halleck; Henry J. Hunt, the distinguished
chief of artillery of the Army of the Potomac; George Thom; Edward O.C.
Ord; Edward R. S. Canby, who commanded the army against Mobile in 1865,
and was massacred by the Modocs in 1873, when in command of the
Department of the Columbia; and James B. Ricketts; and in the
Confederate army, Jeremy F. Gilmer.
Among those in the three classes above him, distinguished as generals in
the army, were Montgomery C. Meiggs, quartermaster-general during the
war, Daniel P. Woodbury, James Lowry Donaldson, Thomas W. Sherman, Henry
H. Lockwood, John W. Phelps, Robert Allen, of the class of '36.
Henry W. Benham, Alexander B. Dyer, S. Parker Scammon, Israel Vogdes,
Edward D. Townsend, William H. French, John Sedgwick, the soldierly and
steadfast commander of the Sixth Corps, beloved of his troops, Joseph
Hooker, John B.S. Todd, of the class of '37; and on the Confederate
side, Braxton Bragg, Jubal A. Early, Edmond Bradford, and John C.
Pemberton.
William F. Barry, Irvin C. McDowell, Robert S. Granger, Justus
McKinstry, Charles F. Ruff, and Andrew J. Smith, of the class of '38,
and P.G. T. Beauregard, the distinguished Confederate leader, as also
William J. Hardee, Edward Johnson, and Alexander W. Reynolds.
In the class of '40 were the distinguished W.T. Sherman, George H.
Thomas, George W. Getty, Stewart Van Vleit, and William Hays; and on the
Southern side, John P. McCawn, Richard S. Ewell, and Bushrod R. Johnson.
In the class of '41 were Zealous B. Tower, Horatio G. Wright, Amiel W.
Whipple, Albion W. Howe, Nathaniel Lyon, John M. Brannon, and Schuyler
Hamilton.
In the class of '42 were Henry L. Eustis, John Newton, William S.
Rosecrans, Barton S. Alexander, John Pope, Seth Williams, Abner
Doubleday, Napoleon J.T. Dana, Ralph W. Kirkham, and George Sykes; among
the Confederates, James Longstreet, D.H. Hill, Gustavus W. Smith,
Mansfield Lovell, Lafayette McLaws, and Earl Van Dorn.
Now fairly entered upon the life and duties of a cadet, his intense and
ardent nature found full occupation. His ambition was aroused. Hard
study agreed with him. The days sped rapidly and pleasantly away. He
fell into companionship with the most talented and high-spirited young
men. Nor, time and attention all absorbed by severe application, did he
sink into a mere bookworm. Every morning before breakfast, rain or
shine, he walked around the post for exercise, a distance of two miles.
He shared, too, in the escapades natural to a free and spirited youth,
and did not always come off scot-free from these scrapes, for his name
stands forty-third on the conduct roll for the first year.
"I have never been homesick for a single minute since I have been
here," he writes his sisters Hannah and Elizabeth, September 8,
1835; "I never passed three months more pleasantly in my life, and
since I commenced my studies time never seemed more fleeting. We are
obliged to stand guard once a week, drill every day, have a dress
parade, with roll calls, etc. We study ten and a half hours a day,
two and a half of which are spent in the recitation room. I have
recited four lessons in algebra and three in French, and I think I
can get my maximum unless sick, or otherwise disabled, that is, miss
no questions in any of my studies the coming year. I can get both of
my lessons in half an hour, and I shall have much leisure time. If I
had some Greek books I think I could pass my time to better
advantage.
"I like the military life very much. There is as fine a set of
fellows here as ever breathed the air. We study hard, eat hearty,
sleep sound, and play little. In camp every one was wide awake for a
scrape, or for any kind of fun. But in barracks we are as sober and
steady as Quakers. We go to the section room with long and solemn
faces. I assure you we know that by study and severe application
alone we can keep our places. I admire the spirit which pervades the
whole class. The common remark is, 'I intend to bone it with all my
might.' _To bone it_ means _to study hard_. Every one seems
determined to rise, or keep his present standing at any rate. We are
divided in four sections in mathematics, and seven in French,
arranged in alphabetical order. Consequently I stand in the last
section in each. A transfer will be made in the course of the week,
those who do best being put in the higher sections, and those who do
worst into the lower sections. I hope to rise in both. That I may do
so, I intend to get my lessons in the best possible manner. It shall
be my aim not only to understand my lessons, but to convince my
instructors that I understand them. To do this I must accustom
myself to collect my ideas readily, to be free from embarrassment
and trepidation, and always to be perfectly calm and
self-possessed."
TO HANNAH.
November 28.
I am doing pretty well. My health is strong and vigorous. I am not
only contented with my situation, but like it very much indeed. We
are kept tremendously strict, I assure you. I was visiting last
Wednesday evening, and they arrested me for it, and did not release
me until this evening, and in addition to that they obliged me to
perform an extra tour of Sunday guard duty, which is very tough, I
assure you, this cold weather.
Uncle William, it seems, was disappointed at his early standing in the
class, and wrote him rather a reproachful letter of exhortation and
advice, winding up with the wish that he should stand first in
mathematics by the end of the year. In reply he explains that his first
rating was low because his name came near the end of the alphabet.
WEST POINT, December 5, 1835.
DEAR UNCLE,--Your letter was received yesterday, and read with much
pleasure. I feel gratified that I still retain your confidence, and
that you expect me to sustain an honorable stand. It is also rather
flattering than otherwise to know that you feel disappointed because
I have nothing more than a respectable standing in my class, for it
shows that your estimate of my abilities is as high as, perhaps
higher than, it should be. I assure you that your wish shall be
gratified not only within the close of the first year, but within
the first six months, if it is within my power. Should my stand be
no higher than at present, you must not feel disappointed. For such
a stand is not only "_very respectable_," but very high in a class
like ours. I beg of you, however, to think no more of the
communication, because my stand even then was much higher than 19.
The sections since then have been rearranged, and I have risen very
much. You must also recollect that at first I was within seven of
the foot both in M. and F. In two weeks I rose 25 men in M. and 80
in F. I then remained in the second section in mathematics till the
middle of November, when I was transferred to the first section.
There are only two in our class who have got the maximum at every
recitation both in M. and F. since the commencement of our studies;
these are cadet Biddle from Penn. and a fellow from Mass., whose
birthplace, I believe, is Andover. I am now at the head of my
section in French. My present standing in M. _is_ as _high_ as the
_highest_, and it is considered so by every member of my class.
There are four of us in M. who have done equally well, that is, we
have each of us got the maximum, done all the extras, and
demonstrate equally as well. Their names are H.J. Biddle, of Penn.,
I. Butler, of Va., H. W. Halleck, of N.Y., and ----, of Mass. I have
often thought of the advice you gave me, and I hope I have profited
by it. I have spent two hours in studying other authors, and in
learning to demonstrate eloquently and with perspicuity, to every
hour devoted to the text-book. In French I have risen more than any
other man in the class. My stand at first was 67th, now it is 22d.
When I came, I had scarcely looked into a French book for five
years, and could not pronounce a single syllable. And, believe me,
it is not egotism which prompts me to say this, but it is in order
to put to rest all your apprehensions on my account. I also wish to
assure you that I associate with none whom I ought not to respect.
WEST POINT, December 20, 1835.
DEAR FATHER,--You have probably received a communication from the
War Department giving my stand for the month of November, which I
hope will give you better satisfaction than the last return. I think
my general standing in January will be still better. I shall be
examined one fortnight from to-morrow, and I intend to do my best.
My standing will greatly depend upon it. At the examination, each
one has a demonstration to perform, besides some 20 or 30 questions
to answer. If my demonstration is good, and the answers to all my
questions are correct, my stand will remain in mathematics at least
as good as it was in November, which, I presume, is fourth. In
French I think I shall rise considerably, because my mark is as good
as any one's, and I think I have gained the good-will of my teacher.
Very much depends upon this. We can always secure their esteem by
being attentive and respectful, and, last though not least, by
paying considerable attention to our personal appearance. Lieutenant
Church, my professor in mathematics, and Mr. Molinard, my professor
in French, are both very fine men and accomplished teachers. The
latter is a Frenchman.
I am acquainted with many Westerners, who generally are very fine
fellows. They are generally very generous and open-hearted, and it
is very easy to get acquainted with them. There have been two duels
fought between cadets since I have been here, though no ill
consequences followed. In each case the combatants were Westerners.
If they had been found out, they, together with the seconds, would
have been dismissed.
Our State does the best of any in the fourth class. There are three
in the first section in mathematics, and two in the first section in
French. Penn. has two in each. Henry J. Biddle, of Penn., will
probably be head in mathematics in January. His name comes before
those who have an equal mark with him; he is a splendid
mathematician, and has graduated at a college, and was undoubtedly
better prepared than any other member of the class. He will also be
head in French. We have a splendid collection of Philosophical,
Mathematical, and Historical works in our library. There is no
difficulty in getting books, and I intend to avail myself of its
many advantages. There is a universal history of modern times,
consisting of 42 volumes. I am now reading Rollin's Ancient History.
Our evenings are very busy. We study from half past five till ten.
It is noticeable in his letters that he finds the regular course of
studies very easy, owing undoubtedly not less to the remarkable native
powers of his mind than to his habits of study and faculty of intense
application. Yet, as in boyhood, not content with the prescribed
curriculum, and spurred on by his ambition to achieve the headship of
his class, he takes extra French lessons, spends "two hours in studying
other authors, and in learning to demonstrate eloquently and with
perspicuity, to every hour devoted to the text-book," and reads Rollin's
Ancient History. Such indomitable resolution and energy combined with
great ability could not fail. In six months he had gained a high place
in the first section, and had become the competitor with three others
for the leadership. He writes uncle William, who has congratulated him
on his standing, and now thinks it best to caution him against studying
too hard:--
WEST POINT, February 1, 1836.
DEAR UNCLE,--It was very gratifying to learn that my standing was so
satisfactory to my friends. Since it has been attained by no extra
exertion, it is incumbent on me to _deserve_ to sustain it for the
future by strict and unwearied attention to all my academic studies.
Your caution respecting hard study shall be observed, for the very
good reason that it is impossible to do otherwise. The regulations
in this respect are very good, and are such as to secure to each one
the privilege of studying as much as is necessary, while it
restrains all from over-exertion. We retire at ten and rise at six.
Of the remaining sixteen, four hours are devoted to recreation,
meals, etc., and twelve to study. Of these twelve hours, two and one
half are spent in the section room. The intercourse between the
cadets is so free and uninterrupted that it is impossible to study
except during study hours. Surely twelve hours' study per day ought
to injure no one of a sound constitution.
Our class will have a society next fall. Every class, except the
fourth, has one or more societies, which meet every Saturday
evening. We have some very fine speakers in the corps, and many take
great pains to improve themselves.
You wish to know our uniforms, rations, etc. Our uniform is gray.
Our pantaloons are made as usual, except a stripe of black velvet on
each leg. Cousin Charles can describe our coats, which are the same
both winter and summer. In summer we wear white pants made of Russia
drilling.
Remember me to all inquiring friends, especially to grandmother and
your own family.
Your nephew,
ISAAC I. STEVENS.
N.B. Tell our folks to write soon.
To his sister Susan:--
WEST POINT, February 23, 1836.
DEAR SISTER,--Be assured that advice from _you_, and advice from
_all those_ whom I _know_ to be my _friends_, will afford me the
greatest pleasure, and will always be received with the most
respectful attention. The disgusting habits of chewing, smoking,
etc., I abominate, and therefore shall never indulge in them. As for
drinks, either distilled or fermented, I do not use them, because in
the first place they cannot be obtained, and, in the second place, I
have no desire for them. The fact of the case is, that in barracks
there are no temptations offered us but what every one who has any
mind could easily resist. In camp it is not the case; then many
temptations are offered us, to which we are in great danger of
yielding, since we have much leisure. When a person has his whole
time employed, there is little danger of falling into bad habits.
Last fall, when I commenced the Algebra, I had very little to do,
and came very near contracting some very bad habits, as sleeping in
the morning, etc., which at first required some little difficulty in
breaking; but now I do not think of such a thing, not even Sunday
mornings, and I often rise at four or five o'clock. This is owing to
having hard lessons to get. You mention that you are studying Latin
and like it very much. I have but one caution to give you on this
subject, which is, get your grammar perfectly. Everything depends
upon this. You can never make a good Latin scholar unless you know
everything about the grammar. Since you are studying French, I
intend next encampment to write you a letter in French, which you
must answer, and we will correct each other. We use Levisac's
Grammar, and at every lesson get about half a page of exercises, and
are obliged to get them so that we can write any sentence our Prof.
gives us upon the blackboard without referring to the books. We are
now writing sentences upon the pronomial verbs. We get for our
translation eight pages in Charles XII. per day. Our teacher, Mr.
Bevard (the author of the French Lessons), is a very good linguist,
and the most thorough teacher I ever was under. He is very
particular about our pronunciation, and corrects us very frequently.
I think by June I shall be able to pronounce French pretty well and
read it fluently, and shall endeavor to rise considerably.
You must write whenever you can find it convenient, and your letters
shall always be punctually answered. I observe that you pay the
postage. I wish that you would allow me to pay it, as I think I am
better able to do it than you. Remember me to all inquiring friends.
Your brother,
ISAAC I. STEVENS.
Miss S.B. STEVENS.
His letters show the maturity of the mind and judgment of the youth of
seventeen, and exhibit a slight formality and precision that indicates
that he was taking pains in the composition. His correspondence must
have taken no little time. His great, warm heart went out towards all
his relations, and he was frequently writing to his uncle William, and
his cousins in Andover and Salem, Mass., in Albany, Maine, and in
Nashville, Tenn. He wrote constantly to his father and sisters, keenly
alive to their welfare and happiness. The latter were beginning to
scatter widely from the paternal roof-tree. Hannah, the eldest, was at
Haverhill, earning her livelihood. Susan was attending the female
seminary at the South Parish (Andover); Mary was at Methuen, at Mr.
Stephen Barker's; and only Sarah and Elizabeth remained at home. Deeply
sympathizing with them, he comforts them, urges them to treat their
stepmother with respect, and touchingly alludes to their father's
unfortunate condition, his growing infirmities, and his sincere
affection for and devotion to his children.
The first academic year rolled rapidly away. One day, as the examination
drew near, Halleck and Biddle were comparing notes as to the prospects.
"That little Stevens," said the former, "is driving ahead like the
devil, and he is sure to be first in mathematics. I don't think he can
beat me in French, at any rate." "And I am sure," rejoined Biddle, "that
he cannot touch me in drawing next year. One thing I have made up my
mind to,--if he gains the head of the class over me, I shall resign."
This dialogue was overheard, and repeated to "little Stevens," who
related it in after years with some amusement.
He had pursued his object with unflagging zeal, energy, and
determination during the year, but, reflecting how heavily he was
handicapped in the race by men like Biddle, Butler, and Halleck, so much
older and farther advanced in their studies at the beginning, he might
well feel anxious. He entered the examination room, as he describes it,
cool and collected, with nerves high-strung yet under perfect control,
and fully determined to come out ahead. He was not disappointed. He rose
to the first place,--a place, once achieved, which no competitor was to
wrest from him.
CAMP JONES, July 6, 1836.
DEAR UNCLE,--I received your letter by Mr. Johnson, and although
short it was very acceptable.... We had a fine time on the Fourth
of July, an oration, dinner, etc. I had a great desire to spend the
Fourth at New York city. I applied and obtained a leave of two days,
commencing on Sunday noon and ending on Tuesday; had a very fine
time,--went to the Navy Yard, Brooklyn, got introduced to about half
a dozen midshipmen, etc. The military were out, as well as several
societies. In the evening I went to the theatre, where Celeste
danced _as usual_.
Since we have been in camp we have had a very easy time, nothing to
do but go on guard two or three times per week, attend roll calls
and dress parades. Next week we will be drilled three times per day
as well as recite in infantry tactics, and attend the
dancing-school. I have come to the determination to study French
this encampment: shall commence next week. I cannot reasonably
expect to keep my present standing in that branch unless I exert
myself. I can translate quite readily, but I write quite
indifferently, and can speak it but very little, whereas there are
three immediately below me who can read, write, and speak the
language very well. Why the Board placed me above them is more than
I can conceive. Two of them have told me they _would rise me_, and I
have told them they _should not do it_. If they _do_ rise me, I
shall not complain; and if they do not, so much the better. As to
mathematics, I have no cause for fear,--both Biddle and Halleck
admit I ought to stand head, and my professor had no doubts about
who should be placed there. As soon as we reënter barracks, we
commence drawing. Success in this branch depends as much (and
perhaps even more) upon persevering application as on a natural
taste. I intend to do my very best, otherwise I shall fall very much
in general merit, even should I keep my standing in other branches.
Biddle will stand head, or near the head, in D., as he now draws
very well. If he was third in D. and I was twelfth, he would rise me
in general merit. Our merit rolls will be published in about two
weeks. I am entitled to five, and shall send one home. In this roll
the standing of every cadet, the class to which he belongs, and the
number of his demerits are published. Mass. stands better in my
class than any other State. Greene and Grafton, both from Boston,
stand ninth and tenth. But there was one from Salem found deficient
in French, although he passed well in M. I think he is a smart
fellow, and will stand high next year. His name is Humber. He had
been a sailor for six years, and French came very hard to him by
reason of the very limited knowledge he had of language. I suppose
that the farmers must have begun haying in good earnest. I should
much prefer working on a farm for two or three months to the life I
now lead. It is now thirteen months since I have done any work to
which I have hitherto been accustomed, and I shall probably _soon
get my hand out_. Many of the cadets, chiefly those who come from
the slavery States, have a great contempt for our Yankee farmers,
and even pretend to compare them with their slaves. They have the
greatest contempt for all those who gain a subsistence by the sweat
of their brows. For my own part I shall always respect every man who
is honest and industrious, and more particularly those who live in
the manner that has been ordained by God himself; and whenever any
man, in conversation with me or in my hearing, compares that class,
of which I am proud to be one, with slaves, I shall always consider
it as an insult offered to myself, and shall act accordingly.
Remember me to all inquiring friends. Write when convenient.
Your nephew,
ISAAC I. STEVENS.
WM. STEVENS, Esq.
CAMP JONES, WEST POINT, August 16, 1836.
DEAR UNCLE,--You probably have seen most of my letters that I have
written home this encampment; you will see that I have taken things
fair and easy, and have had quite a pleasant time. I can always get
a permission to walk into the country whenever I ask for it, so
that, between attending my military duties, dancing, rambling about
in the country, and reading novels, I could not do otherwise than
pass my time pleasantly. I cut rather a sorry figure dancing, as
might be expected, but there is a chance for improvement, which I
intend to make the best of.
There is a standing society in the corps called the Dialectic
Society. Ten or fifteen persons are selected from each class except
the fourth class, so that it consists of forty or fifty members. The
society is continued by selecting the above number from every new
class after it has been here one year. I intend to get elected into
it, if possible. They have a fine collection of books to the amount
of several hundred volumes. There are also many fine speakers in it,
and many of them take great pains to improve themselves, even to the
neglect of their studies. This is unquestionably bad policy. It is
losing a dollar for the sake of saving a sixpence; but there is no
kind of difficulty in paying proper attention to our studies, and
improving ourselves in writing and speaking: by writing, I of course
mean composing. If you will examine our merit rolls, you will see
that Jennings and Halbert, of the second class, are among the
deficients. These men were decidedly the best writers in the class,
and the former was the orator on the Fourth of July. As it is always
better to _act_ than to _talk_, so they have missed it in neglecting
their studies in order to become good speakers.
As I stand head in French, you may possibly suppose I can speak the
language. Such is not the case; but one thing _is_ certain, I am
determined to be able to speak it one year from this time. But how I
shall do it is another thing. I can write it some, but it will
require great pains to be able to write it correctly and speak it
fluently. Neither time nor patience shall be wanting on my part in
order to accomplish both the above objects. As soon as we commence
studying, I intend to have a talk with Mr. Bevard, the head teacher
in French, and a most estimable man, about it, and do as he directs
me.
In return for this I shall expect a good long letter, telling me all
the news and giving me good advice. Remember me to all inquiring
friends, to Aunt Eliza, and cousins Eliza, William, Susan, and
George.
I remain your nephew,
ISAAC I. STEVENS.
WM. STEVENS, Esq.
WEST POINT, September 1, 1836.
DEAR FATHER,--In my letters you often have me write about my leave
next year. I look forward to this with a great deal of pleasure. As
you may well suppose, I want to see my friends very much. How long a
leave had I better get? I can have ten weeks if I choose, or a
shorter time. I am now a corporal, and shall probably be made a
sergeant next June. If I get a leave of ten weeks, I cannot keep my
office. But if I retain it, my leave will not exceed four or five
weeks; but to make up for this I could get as long a leave the year
after; whereas, if I resigned my office and took the ten weeks'
leave, I could get no leave the next encampment. The office now is
not worth much, but it is very well to have it when I am in the
first class, for then I shall be made a lieutenant, if my conduct is
good. What had I best do? If I continue to be head in mathematics,
there is a chance of my being made an assistant professor in M. next
year. Two of the cadet professors will then graduate, and their
places will have to be filled. I do not think, however, it is best
to place any dependence upon it. If there was an even chance of my
being made such, I would not hesitate about resigning my office, if
you should think it best to obtain a leave of ten weeks.
Your son,
ISAAC I. STEVENS.
Mr. ISAAC STEVENS.
WEST POINT, September 2, 1836.
DEAR FATHER,--Yesterday we commenced our studies. We entered the
barracks the 30th of August. The ball on the 29th was a most
splendid one, and the hall was very full. We made use of the
mess-hall, which was decorated in fine style. Our band was present,
and their performances served to increase their reputation. The ball
was continued until after three o'clock, but I did not remain after
half past one. It was estimated that nearly six hundred visitors
were present. As this is the only thing of the kind we have during
the year, the corps take unusual pains to have everything done in
the best manner, and great care was taken that the whole should
present quite a military appearance. Many of the lamps were
encircled by brightly burnished bayonets, which served as
reflectors. Directly in front of the hall was a battery of cannon,
in rear of which sentinels were stationed to keep off those who had
no right to be present. I enjoyed myself very much, and took part in
several cotillions.
We marched into barracks the day after the ball, and were allowed a
day or two to arrange things. My situation is much different now
from what it was one year since. Now I have attained a situation
which then I scarcely hoped for. Now I am surrounded with my
classmates and friends, when one year since I had no friends; for we
were strangers to each other, and consequently displayed that cold
civility, and uttered those unmeaning compliments, which distinguish
the intercourse of strangers. One year since I was unknown to the
officers of the institution; now I trust I have secured the
confidence and esteem of those with whom I have come in contact.
Then I was a _poor plebe_, who had not passed his January
examination; now I no longer bear that title, but possess the
privileges and the name of an _old cadet_.
The fourth class is a very large one, upwards of a hundred. Next
June I do not believe upwards of sixty will be left, and it is
doubtful whether upwards of forty-five graduate, so many are found
deficient and discharged. My room-mates are the same as last year,
with the exception of Mr. Bacon. I think we shall always room
together, at least I hope so. Both Carpenter and Callender are hard
students and steady fellows. The former is a very smart man. The
latter you will find, by reference to some of my old letters, roomed
with me before January, resigned, and was reappointed this year. I
do not expect to stand first next January, but think my standing
will not be below second. Drawing will come hard to me, and I shall
stand quite low the first three or four months. No efforts of my own
shall be wanting to secure a good standing in this branch. We spend
six hours per week in the drawing academy, but I intend to practice
twelve hours per week in my own room.
Your son,
ISAAC A. STEVENS.
Mr. ISAAC STEVENS.
From early boyhood General Stevens made a strong impression upon every
one he met. Undersized, and at first glance insignificant in appearance,
his intense individuality and intellect were always deeply felt. At once
he commanded the respect of the professors at the academy; and their
recollections of him, and of his characteristics, were still vivid after
the lapse of forty years, and the continual passing of an army of youth
before their eyes. Said Professor W.H.C. Bartlett, July 16, 1877, who
was professor of natural and experimental philosophy:--
"General Stevens was a small, undersized, young man when he entered
West Point, very modest in demeanor. He had the habit of speaking
carefully and distinctly, and of clearly and precisely expressing
the exact idea he wished to convey. His mind was comprehensive,
given to generalizations; he had the faculty of generalizing, of
always thinking out first principles. In solving a mathematical
problem, he would apply the principles which governed the class of
problems, and not simply seek a solution of the single one before
him. He was very early regarded by the faculty as a man of great
talent and promise, sure to take a high stand in his class and in
the world. He was popular with his class, but his popularity arose
more from their opinion of his abilities than from social qualities.
The professors soon felt that whatever he said was worthy of
attention. I recollect that he took an active part in the Dialectic
Society, and recollect his moving the books and busying himself in
the room. Biddle was his competitor for the headship of the class,
and after he left there was practically no one to contest the honors
with him.
"Halleck's was an entirely different mind from Stevens's,--less
comprehensive, less devoted to original research, to principles.
Halleck was strong in history, in precedents.
"I recollect Stevens's answer when a witness before a court of
inquiry,--how he knew that a party had done so and so,--if he had
said so. 'No,' replied he, 'he did not say so, but what he said and
his manner combined convinced me of the fact; and the manner is a
great part of any conversation.' When he graduated, he stood not
only at the head of his class, but among the highest that ever
graduated from the academy."
Professor A.E. Church (of mathematics) writes July 27, 1877:--
"My recollection of your father as a cadet at West Point is very
vivid. I remember him as an earnest, industrious student, strictly
attentive to every duty. He possessed mathematical talents of the
highest order, standing in this branch, as in every other, at the
head of his class, notwithstanding rival classmates of great
abilities. A distinguishing trait which he possessed in a remarkable
degree, and, from what I know of his after life, continued ever
prominent, was an unhesitating readiness to apply and carry on
strictly and systematically every principle he had learned, never
failing to come to the right result.
"While others were pondering over the intricacies of a mathematical
proposition, often in vain seeking some shorter way or more curious
result, he seemed at once to grasp the most practicable rule, and
straight onward to pursue it to an end which admitted of no doubt.
"Though admirably adapted for a military commander and great
engineer, had he selected the profession of the law he would have
been prominent among the most distinguished lawyers of the age. His
early death was a serious loss to the army and country, and with his
many friends was sincerely mourned by myself."
The grasp and thoroughness of his mind, his power of generalization, of
seeking and mastering first principles, which Mr. Hazen remarked in the
boy, impressed the West Point professors, too, as the prominent mental
characteristic of the youth.
Says General Zealous B. Tower:--
"I roomed with Cadet Stevens for four months in one of the small
rooms in the south barracks. Stephen D. Carpenter was the other
occupant of that limited living and bed room. Each cadet was
provided with a small mattress, to be spread upon the floor when
needed, and when unoccupied to be rolled up in its canvas, well
strapped, and put into a corner of the room. Later, iron bedsteads
were introduced, but the mattresses were never unrolled and spread
until the hour for retiring. A cadet inspector visited the rooms
half an hour after reveille; the Officer of the day also inspected
them, and the company officers also went the rounds. Tattoo at 9.30
P.M. was the signal for retiring, and taps at ten P.M. for putting
out all lights, when one of the officers again inspected each
'stoup,' or floor, of the barracks.
"Stevens's duties as assistant professor of mathematics occupied an
hour and a half each day, taking that portion of time from his study
hours; but it did not interfere with his studies, for he possessed
quick intelligence, and great concentration of his mental powers.
This faculty was very pronounced, and would have given him
distinction in any profession that he might have undertaken, and the
more so that it was allied to industrious habits and an enthusiastic
nature. He never plodded over his lessons, but often finished them
in half the time allotted to their acquisition. Stevens was a
pleasant room-mate, being very genial, kind, and considerate to
others. He never failed in his friendships, or in anything that
appeared a duty to his fellows. He was popular among those of his
associates who valued sterling, manly qualities, and among the most
prominent members of his corps. He spoke rapidly when a matter of
interest engaged his attention, for he thought rapidly. Though,
rather short in stature, his large head and very expressive,
intelligent eyes made him noticeable and attractive in conversation,
engaging the marked attention of his auditors. His enthusiasm and
strong convictions gave an energy to his manner of discussing
favorite topics that lent the charm of eloquence to his speech."
WEST POINT, March 11, 1836.
DEAR FATHER,--Last week we commenced Calculus. This is considered
the most difficult branch of mathematics. Our text-book is a
compilation from the most distinguished French mathematicians by
Professor Davies. We have about ten pages per lesson, and will be
about five weeks going through it. We next study surveying, which
ends our course in mathematics.
Since the examination I have attended the drawing academy every day,
the regular attendance being every other day. Were I two files
higher in this branch, it would put me head in general merit. I am
now drawing our Saviour, represented as a child. I have been at work
on it for about four weeks. It will probably take me eight weeks
more to finish it. It is very slow work, I assure you, but as our
standing depends entirely upon the excellence and not upon the
number of pieces, I consider the time is not lost, provided what I
do is done well.
It seems there is a very great excitement in Congress respecting the
slavery question. It must afford pleasure to every friend of free
discussion to learn that the South did not succeed in the
resolutions censuring Mr. Adams. At the same time, I think he is
unnecessarily agitating this dangerous question, and that his zeal
will tend to awaken only feelings and desires which should never be
cherished. Is not the dissolution of the Union a subject of fearful
foreboding? Ought then the sages of our land like Mr. Adams at this
time to agitate a question which in the opinion of the South
infringes upon their rights, and which, inflexible as we know them
to be in their maintenance, will cause them to look upon a secession
from the Union as the only means of preserving them? The South are
sensible of the evils of slavery. They deplore the existence of this
curse, entailed upon them against their consent by the arbitrary
decrees of England, and I believe that (if left to themselves) they
will adopt some measures to rid themselves of it.
Your son,
ISAAC I. STEVENS.
[Illustration: INFANT JESUS
_Crayon drawing at West Point_]
WEST POINT, March 5, 1836.
DEAR SISTER,--I received your letter this morning informing me of
aunt Eliza's death. She was certainly the finest woman I ever knew,
and the remembrance of her engaging qualities will long be
cherished. Uncle William is very much to be pitied.
Have you any school in view now for next summer? You also appear to
be very much interested in Latin. I detested Latin when I first
commenced to study it, but I soon brought myself to like it. So it
is with drawing. I take more pleasure in drawing than in anything
else. I like it full as well as reading novels. In my last you will
recollect that I wrote of the piece I was then drawing. I have now
got it most half done. I was all last week (two hours per day)
drawing one eye, a part of another one, and one curl of hair. You
can see by this that I draw very slowly, much slower than any one in
my class. The time spent in the drawing academy seems shorter than
any other part of the day, and I have not yet felt any impatience at
my slowness in drawing since I have commenced my last piece, a sure
sign that I like it very much.
Your brother,
ISAAC I. STEVENS.
Miss SUSAN B. STEVENS.
DEAR SISTER ELIZABETH,--You spoke of Mr. Maynard thinking I ought to
be content with my present standing, and ought not to expect to
stand higher. Be that as it may, one thing _is_ certain, that I will
_never_ cease to try for number one till I have got it again, and
were I convinced that it was almost an impossibility, I would still
_try_. I like the reply of General Miller to his superior officer in
the last war, when, being directed to attack and carry a battery of
cannon on an almost inaccessible eminence, the silencing of which
was indispensable, made this answer only, 'I will try,' and with the
most determined courage carried it in an almost incredibly short
space of time. I don't like _backing out_; it is contemptible. I
shall, however, be contented with whatever standing is given me, and
since I have been here I have always endeavored to prepare myself
for any contingency. This is absolutely necessary. It is the only
way to guard against envy, jealousy, and all those mean and
degrading passions to which the human heart is prone. Harry Biddle
and myself are now the only members of our class who are contending
for head, yet I don't believe there are two men in the class on
better terms. He is one of the finest young men I ever knew; and
although he was very much disappointed last June, he never uttered a
word showing he harbored the least ill-will against me. When the
result of the June examination was known, he came and congratulated
me, but told me he meant to rise me. In January it appeared he had
redeemed his word, and so I went and congratulated him, and balanced
the account. This is the only way to get along, for if we allow
those passions I have mentioned to obtain the least ascendency over
us, it will render us disagreeable and unhappy. There are eleven of
us in four rooms, which are contiguous to each other, who are all
good friends, and we enjoy ourselves as much as any other eleven men
in the corps.
At the end of the second academic year he again stood head of his class,
and had the pleasure of announcing his success to his father. He stood
seventeen on the conduct roll, having eleven demerits.
WEST POINT, June 18, 1836.
DEAR FATHER,--I received a letter from Oliver a few days since. He
says he is "going a-gunning" on his birthday, and wishes me to be at
home to keep him company. I wish this could be the case, but under
present circumstances I shall not come home until the last of July,
and my leave will last but four weeks only. I did not know this till
about a week ago, and I have deferred writing to be able to give you
my standing. The examination was closed yesterday. My standing is
first in mathematics, first in French, and fourth in drawing, which
puts me head in general merit. Mr. Biddle is second in M., third in
F., and first in D. I presume you will be satisfied with this. You
recollect that Mr. Biddle rose me in French last January, and I
suppose that rising him again this June will make it all right
again. I had very good luck indeed, and my recitation in mathematics
was much better than at any previous examination. We march into camp
on Tuesday. It is to be called Camp Poinsett, as a compliment to the
Secretary of War.
In July he returned home, after an absence of two years, to spend the
brief leave of a month. He had foregone one the previous year, partly on
the score of economy, at his father's suggestion, and it was with a
heart full of joy and glad anticipations that he hastened to visit the
loved ones at home, and the dear and familiar scenes of his childhood.
Isaac must have keenly enjoyed this visit. His sisters were proud of
him, and overjoyed at his return. He had surpassed the most sanguine
hopes of his friends, and on every hand met with a warm welcome. His
success at the academy, his cadet uniform, and his erect, soldierly
bearing invested him in the eyes of the community with the new-found
respect and importance accorded to rising and promising young manhood.
His cousin Henry, writing after his return to the Point, says: "If you
look as dignified as you did when you were here, I do not wonder that
you are beyond suspicion. I should like very much to see one hundred
cadets playing at football. Do you run as erect as you walk?" West Point
drill and discipline, however, had not abated his adventurous spirit, or
love of the sports natural to his age. Sailing on the Great Pond with a
number of companions, and the wind having died out, for pastime he
climbed to the top of the mast, which suddenly broke and let him fall
headlong into the lake. On another occasion he was poling a boat with
his little brother up the Cochichewick towards the "Hatch," as the point
where the stream flowed out of the Great Pond was called, when the oar
stuck fast in the tenacious mud of the bottom, and, grasping it too
firmly, Isaac lost his foothold, and was dragged over the stern into the
mingled mud and water, to the sad defilement of his speckless white
cadet trousers. Exasperated at this ridiculous accident, he swore
lustily, calling upon Oliver in no gentle tones to bring back the boat.