_Washington, August_ 5, _1867_.
SIR: Your note of this day has been received, stating that "public
considerations of a high character constrain" you "to say that" my
"resignation as Secretary of War will be accepted."
In reply I have the honor to say that public considerations of a high
character, which alone have induced me to continue at the head of this
Department, constrain me not to resign the office of Secretary of War
before the next meeting of Congress.
Very respectfully, yours,