Military leaders cannot escape the burdens of war, and nowhere are the multiple responsibilities of military leadership more heavily felt than at the highest level of command. The casualties suffered by the forces of General Ulysses S. Grant during the 1864 Overland Campaign in Virginia exceeded expectations, and this letter by President Lincoln, written as the Battle of the Wilderness concluded, provides a rare glimpse of the pain Lincoln felt.

(Transcription)

I would give a sentiment, but just now I am not in a sentimental mood.