[On the 7th of January, 1865, a number of the principal citizens of Philadelphia presented General Grant with a house.]
HEAD-QUARTERS ARMIES OF THE UNITED STATES
Washington, D.C.,
May 6th, 1865.
DEAR FATHER:
I have ordered a sixty days' furlough for Samuel A. He can be discharged at any time after his return home. It will take probably three weeks for my directions to reach him and for him to return.
I have just returned from Philadelphia leaving Mr. Cramer there. He can describe our new house to you when he returns. My health is good but I find so much to do that I can scarcely keep up with public business, let alone answering all the private letters I receive. My going to Philadelphia and spending half my time there as I hope to do, will give me some leisure. I attend to public business there by telegraph and avoid numerous calls taking up much time, or hope to do so.
My kind regards to all at home. I hope to hear of Mother's entire recovery soon.
ULYSSES.
HEAD-QUARTERS ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES