It must ultimately be referred to the War Department, and consequently will be left largely to his control. For this reason I have thought that the best policy to pursue would be to consult with the Secretary and ascertain his views.
His presence in Panama at the time your letter was received, and his absence from Washington during the greater part of the time since returning to this country, has prevented the taking the matter up with him in person, but I have arranged to bring it to his attention.
This, in my opinion, is the best course for the people interested in the matter to follow, for I think they can rely on the wisdom and justice of the Secretary.
Yours truly,
General Clement A. Evans, Commander-in-Chief, was appointed to fill the vacancy on the committee caused by the death of General Stephen D. Lee.
HEADQUARTERS UNITED CONFEDERATE VETERANS.
Clement A. Evans.
General Commanding.
Adjt.-Gen. and Chief of Staff.
Office of Commanding General.
Mrs. W. J. Behan, Pres., New Orleans:
Dear Mrs. Behan,—I have read with great interest your letter and inclosures. I have made myself somewhat acquainted with the effort to have the words "Jefferson Davis" restored to the stone on the "Cabin John Bridge." Additional to the help you obtained from the Louisiana members of Congress, I observed that a member from Virginia introduced a resolution of inquiry, and I wrote to him about it and received his reply. I agree with all parties that this effort should be made without the slightest involvement with politics. The restoration of the name should be made as a simple duty to historical fact. The present blank
