Note 104 — Part II The War With the Sioux (continued 3)

As an instance of Miles’ capacity in handling men, this is what Baldwin says in a private letter, afterward made public, of the orders he received: “When I was given command of this battalion opposite the mouth of Squaw Creek, and the General took command of a less number of men, it was a question as to which would find the hostile Indians, and with the only order or suggestion given by him in that earnest manner characteristic of him, he said, ‘Now, Baldwin, do the best you can. I am responsible for disaster, success will be to your credit; you know what my plans are, and what we are here for.’” There is a dashing, manly ring about such words which I rejoice to recognize. It is a great soldier who can first choose and then trust his subordinates.