ARMSTRONG GUN FROM FORT FISHER.

GUIDE

TO

WEST POINT,

AND THE

U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY.

WITH

MAPS AND ENGRAVINGS.

NEW YORK:
D. VAN NOSTRAND, 192 BROADWAY.
1867.

GUIDE TO WEST POINT.

Fifty-one miles above New York, on the west bank of the Hudson river, in the midst of scenery of the most picturesque and impressive character, and on a bold shelving plateau, formed by the crossing of a range of the Alleghany Mountains, which here assume almost Alpine proportions, is a name dear to every lover of his country—a name replete with memories of the struggle for Independence, and clustering with historic associations.

West Point, the property of the United States by purchase, possesses a primary interest from its military importance during the period of the American Revolution, and a secondary one from its being the seat of the National Military Academy. The creative hand of natural beauty—the romance of war—the distinguished career of those[6] who have gone forth from this locality in the defense of American Liberty, and the spectacle presented by those preparing for future public usefulness, have united to inspire the visitor with emotions unlike those excited at any place of popular resort within the limits of the United States.

Ninety years ago, when West Point possessed no attraction beyond that presented by similar adjoining wild and uncultivated woodland tracts in the Highlands, a band of Commissioners, appointed by the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New York, instituted an undertaking which first imparted a public interest to this favored spot. The war for American Independence was in progress, and then, as now, the Hudson river afforded the principal channel of communication between the theatre of the strife and the country lying northward to Canada and the west.

Nor was its importance thus limited. As a strategic line, separating the New England Colonies from the more productive region south-west[7] of them, the control of the Hudson became, early in the war, one of the principal objects toward which the attention of the military authorities directing the contending parties was attracted.

Between abrupt and lofty mountains above West Point, the gorge through which the river flows, yet bearing its ancient name of Wey Gat, or Wind Gate, is partially obstructed at its lower entrance, by a long and narrow island, once named Martelaer's Rock, but now known as Constitution Island. In pursuance of their instructions, made with singular lack of judgment, upon this island the Commissioners landed, and under the direction of an engineer, appointed by the Colony, a work named Fort Constitution was commenced in August, 1775, and completed at a heavy expense, designed to defend, with a powerful armament of artillery, the approach up the river. Thus unfortunately located, and easily destroyed by an overlooking battery at West Point, or by a land approach on the east side of the river, the fort was abandoned and fired on the first appearance of a British force, on[8] the 8th of October, 1777, immediately following the assault and capture by Sir Henry Clinton, of Forts Montgomery and Clinton, four miles below.

Notwithstanding this early recognition of the necessity for obstructing and controling the Hudson, no attempt was made to occupy West Point until after the urgent recommendations of Washington, Governor Clinton and Lord Stirling—the latter of whom had thoroughly examined and reported upon the immediate necessity for defending this most important point.

Operations were commenced by a brigade of Continental troops, under the command of General Parsons, on January 20, 1778, and before June in the same year, the work yet preserved, was thrown up on the north-east angle of the plateau, and named Fort Arnold. To cover the work, early in April, a body of Massachusetts troops, under Colonel Rufus Putnam, began to erect a fort constructed of earth and logs, on Mount Independence, overlooking the plain, which was named,[9] in honor of their commander, Fort Putnam. The old fort yet in existence, bearing the same name, is a relic built, for the most part, in 1794. Forts Webb and Wyllis, lying to the south and named after regimental commanders, were commenced at the same time with Fort Putnam, and were designed to protect West Point from an approach southward by land. All these operations were conducted under the direction of Major-General McDougall, commanding in the Highlands; and in 1779, they were further strengthened and improved, while additional works were thrown up known as redoubts Nos. 1, 2 and 3, covering the Eagle Valley road to the west; redoubt No. 4, on Rocky Hill, in rear of Fort Putnam, and redoubts Nos. 5, 6 and 7, on Constitution Island, by Kosciuszko as the engineer, acting under the general direction of Washington, whose headquarters were established at West Point during a portion of the same year.

The works known as the North and South redoubts, in rear of Garrison's Station, [10]were erected to defend the land approach on the east side of the river.

An interesting letter and accompanying map, from Kosciuszko, relating to these works, is here published for the first time:

MAP OF WEST POINT

[11]While these land defenses were planned and situated to aid in controling the passage of the Hudson, a formidable obstruction was made by stretching across the river at its narrowest point, a boom of huge short logs, united at the ends by chains so as to resemble a rope ladder, and a few yards higher up, an immense chain was buoyed up on logs, extending across from one shore to the other. This chain was made by Noble, Townsend & Company, at the Stirling Iron Works, yet in operation near the Sloatsburg Station, on the Erie Railroad, about twenty-five miles from West Point. It was carried in pieces to New Windsor on wagons, put together there, and floated down the river into its position, in April, 1778. A portion of the chain is preserved, and is to be seen lying in a grove on the north side of the Plain. The links are made of two-inch bar iron, and each weighs about 120 pounds. The entire chain weighed 186 tons.

Thus it will be seen, from its natural advantages, its defenses, and its [12]obstructions, West Point was the key to the passage of the Hudson, and as matters stood in 1780, it was in fact an American Gibraltar. The British, then in possession of the city of New York, and thus prevented from the employment of vessels to maintain communication with the Northern Provinces, and unable to penetrate the country amid the desolate wildernesses which covered its face, found themselves restricted to surprising detached points, or raids, from which the patriots speedily recovered, and no northern campaign, save that of Burgoyne, which ended in defeat and surrender, was attempted, chiefly from their inability to control the passage of the Hudson.

The winter of 1779 and 1780 was one of unexampled severity for the patriot army in the North, while in the South the surrender of Charleston and the disaster at Camden, had inspired universal gloom. A cloud of witnesses of the best authority bear testimony that at that period the majority of the American people manifested a [13]willingness to cease further resistance, and return to their allegiance under the British King.

In the midst of these forebodings there burst upon the nation the knowledge of a plot so comprehensive and momentous in all the circumstances attending it, and in the results designed to be accomplished, that even in its failure it struck terror and dismay to the hearts of all true lovers of American independence. This mighty plot comprehended not only the surrender of West Point, with all its garrison and armament, but had also for its object the betrayal of Washington and his staff into the hands of Sir Henry Clinton, the British Commander of the King's forces in America.

Major General Benedict Arnold, an officer of the patriot army, who had risen from the grade of Captain for gallant and perilous services in the contest, sought and received an assignment to command at West Point and its dependencies in August, 1780. Embittered by a few real, and many [14]imaginary grievances, this officer had long but secretly become disaffected towards the American cause. After evidence has established the fact, that he deliberately bargained with the British Commander to become a traitor to the land of his birth—to sell for a stipulated price the trust confided to him, and to betray his command into the hands of the enemy. To accomplish this object he entered into negotiations secretly with Sir Henry Clinton, by which it was agreed that he should make such a disposition of his forces as would enable the British Commander effectually to surprise West Point.

John Anderson and Colonel Beverly Robinson were the agents on the part of the British, and with them Arnold opened "a regular channel of communication." The correspondence becoming protracted, a personal interview was demanded by Arnold to bring the matter to a final settlement, at which he was to furnish plans of West Point, and returns of its armament and garrison. With this object in view, [15]John Anderson left New York on horseback, and proceeded up the river with the intention of holding the proposed interview on board the British sloop-of-war "Vulture," anchored off Teller's, now called Croton Point. Difficulties having been thrown in the way of this arrangement, Anderson was induced to leave the vessel and go ashore at midnight, in a boat sent by Arnold, and meet the latter on the west bank of the Hudson, a little below the village of Haverstraw. He had been directed by Sir Henry Clinton not to enter the American lines, and not to assume any disguise, but under a pressure of circumstances, he did both, and thus became exposed to the character of a spy, violating the laws of war. The meeting between Anderson and Arnold, while discussing their infamous plans, was prolonged until the dawn of day, when the state of the tide and the risk of being discovered by the American pickets, so alarmed the boatmen, that neither the threats nor entreaties of [16]the two principals could induce them to return to the "Vulture."

In the hope of making a successful return to the vessel on the next night, both parties sought refuge in the house of a noted Tory, living in Haverstraw, named Joshua Hett Smith. They had scarcely found themselves safe within the house, when an event occurred which seriously threatened the whole object of the interview. The proximity of the "Vulture" to the American lines was such, that a fire was opened upon her by a battery on shore, and she was compelled to drop down the river, thus preventing Anderson from returning to New York by that opportunity. In the afternoon Arnold returned in his barge to his headquarters, while Anderson, filled with thoughts of the great advantage the arrangement must confer upon his King and country, and with the glory and promotion awaiting himself, could not avoid reflecting upon the great personal danger to which he was exposed, surrounded by enemies, and having concealed about his [17]person the proofs of his character as a spy. He had been furnished by Arnold with two passports, one to return by water in case that method again became practicable, and the other by a land route on the east side of the river, authorized him "to go to the lines at White Plains, or lower if he thought proper, being on public business." Choosing the latter mode, in the evening Anderson, accompanied by Smith, crossed the Hudson at Stony Point, and commenced his hazardous journey.

The party proceeded with little or no interruption, and once beyond the sight of patroling parties, Anderson's naturally buoyant spirit resumed its wonted cheerfulness, and he astonished his companion by the sudden change from taciturn despondency to unusual hilarity. Poetry, art and literature, formed alternate themes of discourse, and already he seemed to behold the reduction of the Colonies and the end of the war—a consummation to which his own sagacity and personal daring would so largely have contributed. Near Pine's [18]Bridge, a few miles above Tarrytown, Smith parted from him to return to Fishkill, while Anderson pursued his way onward, until three armed militia-men, lying in wait for suspicious men and cattle going to New York, brought him to a stand. Under the impression that they were adherents of the British from their replies to his inquiries, he announced himself a British officer, and exhibited his passport, but it was too late, the fatal admission was made. The men took him into the bushes and searched him, when six papers, mostly in Arnold's handwriting, were found inside of his stockings and beneath his feet, filled with details of the state of the forces, ordnance, and defenses at West Point. Patriotically disdaining the proffered bribe of a purse of gold and permanent support and promotion on condition of suffering him to proceed, the captors conveyed him to Colonel Jameson, who commanded the nearest American outpost at North Castle. This officer, unaccountably bewildered, resolved to dispatch the captive to Arnold, to [19]whose command he belonged, in spite of the damning proof of the former's treachery. Major Tallmadge, the second officer in command at the post, was absent when Anderson was brought in, and did not return until evening. When Jameson told him what had occurred, he was filled with amazement, and openly declared that Arnold was a traitor, offering to take upon himself the responsibility of acting on that conviction. To this Jameson would not listen, but he finally yielded to the entreaties of Tallmadge to recall Anderson, while he persisted in sending a note to Arnold, informing him of the suspicious arrest of the prisoner. The six papers he had already dispatched to be delivered to Washington. The messenger sent to recall Anderson overtook the party and returned with them to North Castle. Conscious that his fate was sealed, exposure inevitable, and proofs of his own and Arnold's crime more than ample, Anderson paced up and down the apartment with measured step, pondering on the gloomy prospect which awaited him, [20]while Tallmadge sat watching him, more and more convinced that the indifferently dressed prisoner before him had been bred to the profession of arms. On the next morning the captive wrote a letter to Washington, describing the manner in which he came within the American lines, and announced himself to be Major John Andre, the Adjutant-General of the British army.

The state of inactivity of the patriot forces had impelled Count Rochambeau, the Commander of the Allied French army, to request an interview with Washington at Hartford, Conn. Two days before the conference between Arnold and Andre, Washington wrote Arnold to meet him at Peekskill with a guard of fifty men, and forage for forty horses. Arnold came down from West Point in his barge, and crossed over with Washington at King's Ferry, plying between Verplank's and Stony Point. The "Vulture" was then anchored off in full view, and Washington observed her through a telescope for a long time, conversing with his staff in a low tone. Arnold [21]witnessed the scene with more than ordinary feelings of alarm, and was startled by a playful remark of Lafayette, who said, "General, as you have secret correspondence with the enemy, you must tell us what has become of Guichen." Thrown off his guard, Arnold sharply demanded what the Marquis alluded to, but almost immediately the boat arrived at the landing, and the retort passed unnoticed. The night was passed at Peekskill, and when next morning Washington proceeded on his way, Arnold returned to his headquarters at the Robinson House, opposite West Point. In returning, after the meeting with Rochambeau, Washington pursued the upper route to the Hudson, arriving at Fishkill, so as to enable him to visit West Point before returning to his camp in New Jersey. This change in his route caused him to miss the papers sent after him by Jameson, which had been found on the person of Andre, and during his brief visit the plot had matured, ripened, and Andre had been captured.

[22]Two days after the latter occurrence, Washington left Fishkill and pushed on down to the Robinson House, only some ten miles distant, intending to breakfast with Arnold. On arriving opposite West Point, instead of continuing on to Arnold's quarters, he rode toward the North and South redoubts. "General," said Lafayette, "you are going in the wrong direction, and you know Mrs. Arnold is waiting breakfast for us." "Ah!" said Washington, "you young men are all in love with Mrs. Arnold, and wish to get where she is as soon as possible; go, and take your breakfast with her, and tell her not to wait for me; I must first examine the redoubts on this side of the river."

As most of the staff officers proposed to accompany him, only two went forward to tell the Arnolds not to wait, and finding breakfast ready, they sat down with the family at the table. During the repast a note was brought to Arnold, who opened it and read it; the note was from Jameson, as before mentioned, and [23]announced the capture of Anderson, conveying, of course, to Arnold, the failure of the whole conspiracy. Betraying but slight outward emotion, although his life was in imminent peril, he merely remarked that his presence was required across the river at West Point, and with a slight apology, he left the room followed by his wife. In the privacy of their own chamber he told her they must part—possibly forever—and that his life depended on his reaching the British lines; then pressing a kiss upon his sleeping infant boy,[A] he passed down stairs, mounted a horse, and dashed down a narrow rocky path leading to the landing, where his barge was lying, just on the south side of the point through which the Hudson River Railroad now cuts its way. Pretending that he was going with a flag of truce, he excited the boatmen to powerful efforts by promised [24]rewards, and the boat sped through the water, carrying the panting renegade to the "Vulture" below, passing Verplank's Point batteries under cover of a white handkerchief raised upon a stick.

Meanwhile, Washington having completed his inspection, arrived at the Robinson House, where he was informed that Arnold had been called across the river. After a hasty breakfast, he concluded not to await Arnold's return, but to follow him to West Point. As the barge swept over the water, amid the majestic scenery of the Hudson, Washington remarked, "Well, gentlemen, I am glad General Arnold has gone before us, for we shall now receive a salute, and the roaring of the guns will have a fine effect among these mountains." But no salute boomed upon their expectant ears, and no preparations were visible for tendering one. As the boat drew near the shore, an officer was seen coming down the hill, who proved to be Colonel Lamb, the temporary commander. Astounded at seeing the Commander-in-Chief, he commenced [25]an apology, which was interrupted by Washington. "How is this, sir, is not General Arnold here?" "No, sir," replied the Colonel, "he has not been here these two days, nor have I heard from him in that time." "This is extraordinary," replied Washington, "he left word that he had crossed over here; however, the object of our visit must not be defeated, and since we are here we will look around and see in what state things are with you." He then ascended to Fort Putnam, examined it and the various redoubts, and returned to Arnold's house, where Hamilton gave him the dispatch, which had arrived during his absence from Jameson, containing the papers found on Andre, and the letter from the latter to himself. The treason of Arnold was now fully exposed, but as some hours had elapsed he was already beyond pursuit. Calling in Generals Knox and Lafayette, Washington explained what had occurred, showing the proofs of the treachery, and, pathetically appealing to them, he exclaimed, "Whom can we trust now?"

[26]Standing on a mine which might explode at any instant, he was outwardly as calm as ever; he even sought Mrs. Arnold, and kindly attempted to soothe her frenzied excitement which found vent in alternate wailings and reproaches that would have pierced insensibility itself. Although Washington seemed unchanged, he was fully alive to his danger. He rapidly wrote his commands, and hastily dispatched couriers in every direction to arouse the camps, till at length, having done all in his power to avert the threatened evil, he retired to rest late at night, fully expecting to be aroused before daylight by the roar of British artillery.

We now know the happy result, and that, under the providence of God, much of it was due to the promptitude and foresight of Washington. We now see the momentous consequences which would have followed the consummation of Arnold's baseness; how, and by what a singular change of events, Washington's visit was delayed, and Arnold's escape effected, while even [27]now, we recoil as we learn how a single expression dropped by Andre, prevented the springing of a mine which would have inevitably insured a failure to achieve our independence, and have left us colonial dependents upon the British Government. Andre was conveyed to the Robinson House, and thence to West Point, from which place he was removed to the village of Tappan, opposite Irvington, on the Hudson River Railroad, where a Board of General Officers, presided over by Major General Greene, was assembled to inquire into the facts of his case, and report their opinion. The Board found him acting in the character of a spy, and were of the opinion that, agreeably to the laws and usages of war, he ought to suffer death. In spite of every possible exertion of Sir Henry Clinton, the universal sympathy of the American officers, and the grief of Washington, whose heart was wrung with anguish when he gave the death-warrant, Andre was executed at Tappan, on the 2d [28]of October, 1780, and died, in truth, "lamented even by his foes."

The miserable and unhappy career of Arnold need not be pursued. Rewarded by the British Government with a Brigadier-General's commission and a grant of £10,000, he died in London in 1801.[B]

CONSTITUTION ISLAND

[29]To the visitor at West Point, the objective spot of the stirring scenes described, each wooded height and rocky bluff recalls the times when our fathers, regardless of personal hardship, suffering and death, labored to secure the priceless boon of freedom.

One hundred and fifty-seven feet above the river, on a plateau, embracing about fifty acres of level ground, stands the United States Military Academy, [30]established by an Act of Congress in 1802. The approach to this plateau from the steam-ferry landing, is up a carriage road, excavated in the almost perpendicular rocky bank, conveying the visitor past the Riding-hall, the Cavalry stables, and the Library building, to the crest of the plain, where the natural beauty of the latter, and its wonderful adaptation for locating a great military educational institution, first excites admiration. The plateau, which affords ample space for all military evolutions appertaining to artillery, infantry, and cavalry, is bounded on the west by lofty and rugged hills, at the base of which are situated the various Academic buildings, the Cadet Barracks, and the residences of the officers and professors.

Proceeding on to the West Point Hotel, an old fort is seen on the north-east angle of the plain, known as Fort Arnold, until the treason of the apostate became exposed, when the name, thenceforth unknown in American history, was changed to Fort Clinton. From the Hotel, situated on the [31]north side of the plain, the lake-like river view is unobstructed for nearly ten miles, and presents in its constantly varying aspect of sunlight and shadow on the rugged mountain sides, in its periods of storm and repose on the water, and in its ever changing variety of steamers and river craft, a scene which for boldness and beauty stands unrivalled even in America, and is elsewhere unknown throughout the world. The pencil of the artist, the skill of the photographer, and the depths of language, have striven to portray the exceeding loveliness of the vista presented from this spot, while tourists fresh from the Alpine beauties of Switzerland and the Rhine, from Italy, Scotland and Wales, and from the overland wilds of the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada, alike render homage to the glorious landscape here spread before them.

Immediately to the north, and almost at the feet of the spectator, lies Constitution Island, with the exposed ruins of old Fort Constitution near the water's edge, and a [32]little below which the end of the great chain was attached; while beyond may be seen the forge and furnace stacks of the Foundry, and the spires and dwellings in the village of Cold Spring. To the right, and farther up, Bull Hill and Breakneck Mountains, rise respectively 1,580 and 1,187 feet, the latter bearing Pollopel's Island, nearly opposite, while the city of Newburg, with the Shawangunk Mountain range for a background, fades away almost imperceptibly in the distance. On the left, the Crow Nest towers 1,428 feet above the water, with Washington's Valley nestling between it and the Cemetery. "Moore's House," from which the orders of Washington emanated in 1779, was situated in the valley bearing his name.

Leaving the Hotel by a pathway to the west, the visitor is conducted to the siege battery of rifled guns, exhibiting the form and structure of a field work, and from thence to a grove of elms, where a variety of trophy guns are to be seen, taken during the Revolution, in the war of 1812, in Mexico, [33]and in the late rebellion. A portion of the great chain surrounds the beautiful gun "Le Monarque," presented by Congress to Lafayette, and one or two mortars captured by General Wayne at Stony Point. Beside the antique mortars and guns from Mexico, inscribed with the names of the places from which they came, there are two English rifled Blakely guns, from Fort Pulaski, two carronades, or ship's pivot guns, from Hilton Head, one 8-inch rifled Blakely, from Fort Morgan, all captured from the rebels; and the fragments of Gen. Gilmore's famous 30-pound Parrott gun, from Morris Island, which hurled 4,606 projectiles at Charleston before it assumed its present condition. These trophies, scarred and bruised by shot, and many other large guns made for experimental purposes, cannot fail to afford an interesting subject for contemplation. The large granite ball was brought by Gen. Delafield from the Crimea, where it is said such projectiles were thrown from mortars by the Russians, to crush the decks of the blockading fleet. The spot is [34]further interesting from its having been dedicated as the site of the proposed Battle Monument, designed to be erected by subscription among the surviving officers and soldiers, to the memory of the officers of the regular army who fell during the rebellion.

A little to the westward, a walled enclosure, embracing the Ordnance Laboratory, is situated, and there may be seen a great variety of trophy guns from Cedar Creek and from Vicksburg, among which is the famous "Whistling Dick," an English rifled breech-loading Whitworth gun, captured on Morris Island, and the formidable Armstrong gun, captured at Fort Fisher, off Wilmington. Here, also, may be seen the gun from Elder's Battery, which fired the last shot previous to the surrender of Lee's Army. These, and a great variety of torpedoes, shot, shells and other Rebel implements of warfare, will well repay the visitor by the variety of design they exhibit. Pursuing the road down the hill, to the North wharf, the Sea-coast battery, with its [35]armament of rifled monsters, consisting of 30-pound, 100, 200, and 300-pound Parrots, the 15-inch gun, and the 13-inch mortar, all capable of hurling projectiles as far as Pollopel's Island, or beyond, arrests the attention of the observer, and furnishes tangible evidences of the triumphant progress of manufacturing skill in weapons of war.

Returning by the road to the crest of the Plain, and proceeding west, a road to the left leads up the hill to Fort Putnam. The old fort, long neglected, and subject to the assaults of wintry blasts and beating storms, rises high above the Plain, and there, in grim majesty, it patiently awaits the silent march of disintegration and general decay. Approached in the mellow light of an evening sunset, when a single pencil of rays lingers and illuminates the crests of the mountains in the east, and a few scattered clouds, tinged with scarlet, gold and silver tints, fading and blending in perfect harmony with the deep blue of the firmament, indicate the close of the day; a single drum breaks upon the solemn stillness around, [36]and directly after, a full chorus of music from the Band on the Plain below, proclaims the arrival of the hour for evening parade. Immediately echo takes up the strain, and repeats them in tones softer and sweeter, and fainter, until mountain, river and plain, all resound with notes of exquisite melody. Then the pulse quickens even in those habitually insensible to the beautiful spectacle here unfolded, and the visitor seems to breathe a new existence in an ideal world, until the reverberations of the evening gun announce the passage of another day, and the nearer approach of that period when the mighty Angel shall proclaim that "time was, but time shall be no more."

Were the same scene to be presented daily from this spot for all time, it would never cease to be a delight to make a pilgrimage to the glorious old Fort, while the vivid memories of its former patriot occupants, and their labors are treasured up and remembered. But a constant change is going on, and the same object presents itself to the eye in many different aspects. [37]The beautiful river, from small beginnings, flowing down shelving rocks and flowering banks, is swollen in mighty grandeur until it bursts asunder the mountain barriers, and sweeps along, bearing on its broad bosom the wealth of two hemispheres, to lose itself in the limitless ocean, and become a part of the eternity of waters. The never-ceasing progress of the seasons, beginning with the first born bud of Spring, and so proceeding through each varying phase, to the period when the snow-capped mountains and the ice-bound river are ready to expose anew their surfaces to the reviving and gladdening warmth of showery April. The very rising and setting of the sun; the clear, blue sky, speckled with snowy fleece; the hurry and rush of the mountain storm through the gorge, unite to keep up an ever-changing panorama of all that is lovely and grand in nature.

Prominent among the many objects of interest which claim the attention of the observer from this point, may be seen Redoubt No. 4, on Rocky Hill, immediately in rear [38]of the fort; the ruined parapets of Forts Wyllis and Webb lying southward, each enveloped in a cluster of cedars; and to the east, on the opposite side of the river, the North and South redoubts on the hill, in rear of Garrisons, environed by similar groups of the same beautiful vine-clad evergreen. The entire vicinity, rising as it does abruptly from the river to the terrace above, with wooded uplands, and bright green slopes beyond, is adorned with sumptuous country seats, gleaming through the tufts of foliage that surround them, and the lordly Hudson, with its furrowing keels and snowy sails, all unite to present a landscape, the beauty of which the pencil of the artist has vainly striven to portray.

The buildings appropriated to the occupation and education of the Cadets, are not without attractive interest to the visitor. The Cadets' Barrack, from its magnitude, symmetrical proportions, durability, and castellated structure, seldom fails to elicit commendation from all lovers of architecture who are drawn to its vicinity. The [39]building contains eight divisions, of which two are assigned to each of the four companies of Cadets. Two occupants only are found in a room, each uniformly furnished with an iron bedstead, an iron table, chair, books, and wearing apparel; all other furniture being carefully excluded as unnecessary or unworthy of the student soldier. Warmed by furnaces, lighted by gas, with daily access to bath-rooms, and invigorated by their military exercises, the Cadets present an appearance of health and contentment seldom seen in other collegiate institutions.

The Academic Building contains, on the first floor, a gymnasium, with bowling-alleys, an apartment for fencing and sword exercise, and the Chemical laboratory. The second floor contains recitation rooms, and the models and collections pertaining to the departments of Engineering and Mineralogy and Geology. Besides the models of bridges, buildings, engines, and arches, illustrative of the progress of civil engineering, others relating to field works, fortifications, their system of attack and [40]defense, and the models of Fort Wagner, before Charleston, and San Juan d'Ulloa, off Vera Cruz, will claim attention. The third floor is occupied by recitation and lecture rooms, the Picture gallery, Drawing Academy, and the Museum of ordnance and trophies. The Picture gallery contains specimens selected from the productions of the most proficient Cadets in the classes which have gone forth since 1838, and among them the names of many prominent army officers will be recognized. Regarded as an evidence of skill and cultivated taste, on the part of those who were first made aware of their power to acquire the art of sketching and coloring after entering the Military Academy, and as the result of a few months' instruction, no one can view this collection without experiencing the liveliest feelings of satisfaction and pleasure.

The Museum of ordnance and trophies exhibits all the various progressive stages in the manufacture of swords, muskets, cartridges, powder, and shot; models of field and siege guns, and the anatomical [41]structure of horses for instruction in the department of cavalry. The collection of ancient and experimental weapons; of Rebel torpedoes, and Rebel shot from many battle-fields; of flag-staffs and flags from Mexico; Indian trophies and curious projectiles, and the numerous flags borne by the regular army in the last war with England, in the Florida war, in Mexico, and in the Rebellion, with their inscriptions, excites a degree of interest which cannot be overcome by a momentary glance.

The colors of the Fourth Regiment of U.S. Infantry bear the following historical inscriptions:

The colors of some other regiments and batteries bear even a greater number of inscriptions, but none date as far back in the past.

A pedestal and shell, brought from South [43]Carolina, is inscribed on its four sides by Rebel and Union hands, as follows:

FIRST FACE.

Fifteen Inch Hollow Shot, fired by the
Abolition Fleet of Iron Clads, at Fort Sumter,
April 7, 1863.

SECOND FACE.

Presented to the Citadel Academy,
By General G.T. Beauregard,
Charleston, S.C., April 27, 1863.

THIRD FACE.

Taken at Columbia, S.C., Feb. 17, 1865,
By the troops of the United States, under
Major-General W.T. Sherman.

FOURTH FACE.

Presented to the U.S. Military Academy,
By Major-General Wm. B. Hazen,
April 1, 1865.

The centre of the room is occupied by a model of the Silver Mine of Valenciana, in Mexico, purchased in the City of Mexico in 1847, by subscription among the officers of the army, whose names are affixed. The upper surface represents the operatives, made of silver amalgam, practising their [44]several divisions of labor, while the sides exhibit the galleries of the mine, with the miners at work. The case contains, besides, many mineral specimens, and models of Aztec idols. The whole is surmounted by an eagle and a portion of drapery taken from over the Vice-President's Chair in the Mexican Senate Chamber.

In the Chapel, east of the Academic building, may be seen a fine picture over the chancel, by Professor Weir, typical of Mars and Minerva. On the west side, the walls present memorial tablets of the general officers of the Revolution, and the guns presented by Congress to Major-General Greene, implanted beside a niche of trophy colors taken from English and Hessian regiments. On the east side are memorial tablets of all the officers of our army who fell in the Mexican War, and trophy guns and colors taken by Generals Scott and Taylor, during their campaigns in the same war.

The Library Building contains temporarily the offices of the Superintendent, [45]Adjutant, Quartermaster, and Treasurer. On the second floor, which is not usually open to visitors, is situated the Lecture-room and apparatus of the department of Philosophy and Astronomy. The dome contains an equatorial telescope, and the flank towers a transit instrument and mural circle. The Library occupies the east end of the building. It contains about 20,000 volumes, chiefly on professional and scientific subjects, and several fine portraits of former Superintendents and Chiefs of the Engineer Department.

The capacious Riding Hall stands on the bank of the river, a little below the Library; and from the interesting exercises therein, it is deservedly regarded as one of the most attractive points at the Military Academy. The hours for riding are from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M., except during the period of the Cadets' encampment, with occasional interruptions, when the evolutions of a squadron are practised on the Plain. The course of instruction embodies running at the heads, running at the ring [46]with poised sabre, exercises with pistols, leaping bars and hurdles, and many other feats which afford little room for monotony or wearisome interest, even among those accustomed to witnessing equestrian displays.

Northward from the Library a path leads down the bank to Kosciuszko's Garden—a shelving terrace overhung with shrubbery, and rendered inviting by a cool spring of water, and a tradition that the patriot Pole, whose name the spot bears, here sought retirement and seclusion. The Monument to "Dade and his Command" tells its own story, and American history has yet to furnish an example of devotion to duty similar to that exhibited by those whose names are here inscribed. A little beyond is seen Battery Knox, whose armament proclaims the tidings on all occasions of national joy or sadness. From this point, the lower pathway, called the "Chain Battery Walk," conducts the visitor through a delightful ramble to Gee's Point and the North Wharf, or by a branch, to the [47]Hotel above. The upper path returns to the road along the crest of the bank, and a few steps brings the tourist to Fort Clinton.

Within the latter, on the extreme angle nearest the river, stands a marble column, sacred to military virtue in the person of Kosciuszko, and forming in itself by reason of the ideas it evokes, a striking contrast to the dark halo of despite and shame that hovers around the name of Arnold, whose apostasy is inseparably connected with the very name of West Point. Thaddeus Kosciuszko was a native of Poland, whose education began at Warsaw and was completed at Paris. Having determined to cast his lot with the Americans, then struggling for liberty, he was furnished by Franklin with letters to Washington, and came to America. He was appointed Aide-de-Camp to Washington, and subsequently commissioned as Colonel of Engineers. Highly distinguished for his courage and skill in the campaign against Burgoyne, and as the directing Engineer at West Point, he returned to Poland at the close of the Revolution, [48]rewarded by the thanks of Congress and the commission of Brevet Brigadier-General, to serve as a General of Division under Poniatowski. In the Polish Insurrection of 1793 he was chosen Generalissimo, with the powers of a Roman Dictator. He immediately issued a decree, authorizing the insurrection, and at once proceeded to unite the Polish divisions, and in a few days the Russians were driven from the Palatinate. Meantime, the Prussians having joined Russia, the rest of the struggle was a continuous resistance against superior forces, until at last, at Maciejowice, on the 10th of October, 1794, he was completely defeated and overwhelmed by the Russians. He fell wounded from his horse, with the bitter wail on his lips, "Finis Polonie." Taken prisoner, and conveyed to a fortress near St. Petersburg, he underwent a long confinement until the accession of Paul I., who, feeling an admiration for his character, restored him to freedom, and presented him with his sword.

"I have no longer occasion for a sword," [49]sadly replied Kosciuszko, "since I have no longer a country." He visited America in 1797, and was triumphantly and warmly welcomed by the grateful people. He returned to Switzerland and resided at Solothurn, where he died on October 15, 1817. His body was interred at Cracow with great pomp in the funeral vaults of the Kings of Poland, between the coffins of Poniatowski and Sobieski. The Senate decreed in his honor the erection of an enormous mound on the Heights of Bronislawad. The gratuitous labor of all classes succeeded in raising this "Mound of Kosciuszko" to the height of 300 feet in three years, and it will remain for ages a noble monument of his country's gratitude. Kosciuszko was never married, and the simple column at West Point, in full view of thousands of travelers, will long serve as a memorial of gratitude from the American nation, and an enduring protest against the destruction of Poland, and the ruin and death of many freedom lovers as noble and virtuous as Kosciuszko himself.

[50]The "Drives" at West Point and its vicinity, although limited in extent by the rugged character of the region, are possessed of infinite variety and beauty, from the constantly changing aspect of river, mountain, and valley. Besides the routes on the Post itself, the road South, along the riverbank to Fort Montgomery, about four miles distant, from its smoothness, easy grades, and the numerous attractive residences by the wayside, affords many present and pleasing after reminiscences of a sojourn at this delightful retreat.

Prominent among these attractions, and scarcely a mile distant from West Point, on the very brink of a precipice towering over the Hudson, stands Cozzens' Hotel, the name of which is inseparably associated with the name of its founder, whose benevolence, geniality, and hospitality is so intimately connected with West Point and the traveling public.

1866. West Point and its Vicinity.

Directly west of the Hotel stands the picturesque little church of the "Holy Innocents," erected by Professor Weir, to [51]commemorate the early decease of two of his children. A little distance below, the village of Highland Falls is situated, on both sides of a mountain stream bearing the name of Buttermilk Falls, derived from the foaming passage of the water over steep rocks into the Hudson below. From this point onward to Fort Montgomery, the occasional expanse of the river, the charming country seats dotting the bank, and the magnificence of the mountains, continually inspires a feeling of happiness and contentment.

Fort Montgomery is situated on the north bank of Pooplopen's Creek, at its junction with the Hudson. It is elevated about 130 feet above the water, and the view from its ruined parapet covers an extent, and surpasses if possible in wildness, the landscape seen from the West Point Hotel. Fort Clinton, similarly elevated, stood directly opposite on the south side of the creek, and both works possess more than ordinary interest from having been the scene of a bloody assault and capture [52]by a British force, under the command of Sir Henry Clinton, in October 1777. The forts were simultaneously carried at the point of the bayonet by overwhelming numbers; the last named, by a column moving up the bank of the river, and the former, by one moving down the valley, between the Dunderberg and Bear Mountain, through which the creek makes its way.

From West Point westward, the road diverges to the Cemetery, overlooking Camptown, where the soldiers are quartered, Washington's Valley, a little beyond, Constitution Island, the Foundry, and the village of Cold Spring. The tasteful monuments, with their military insignia and mournful inscriptions, unveil the attachment of many who fell in Florida, Mexico, Oregon, and in the Rebellion, for the spot protected and consecrated by their Alma Mater. The branch road south, immediately without the first West gate, leads to Fort Putnam, and intersects the river route a little above Cozzens' Hotel. The main [53]road west, known as the "Canterbury Road," leads to Turner's Station, on the Erie Railroad, about fourteen miles distant, passing Long Pond, and the vicinity of many other ponds indicated on the map, most of which afford fine resorts for angling and hunting in the appropriate season. Three miles from West Point a branch from this road leads across the mountain to Canterbury, Cornwall, and Newburg, but the route is so rough as to render it unsuitable for pleasure driving. Just before reaching this point a road extends south through Eagle Valley to Highland Falls, affording a circuit of about seven miles, through a region abounding with new beauties at every turn. The road is in good condition, and the proposed intention of the Cozzens' Brothers to add to the attractions of their Hotel by erecting a mountain retreat at the Round Pond, will doubtless lead to further improvements.

The "Drives" on the east side of the Hudson are easy of access by the steam ferry, and are possessed of even stronger [54]attractions. From the landing the road rises to the "Highland House," and from thence southward as far as Anthony's Nose, the route is one of exquisite beauty. Besides the numerous country seats, nowhere surpassed in elegance, and the thriving farms along the way, the Robinson House, situated at the base of Sugar Loaf Mountain, about one mile below, presents an object of deep and attractive interest. Preserved with all its original features, and as far as possible in the same condition as when it was made the scene of Arnold's treachery—hallowed by the footsteps of Washington and almost every general officer of the Revolution, and rendered impressive from its antiquity and the absence of all evidences of the progress of modern architecture and comfort, the Robinson House has survived, with its umbrageous foliage, for nearly a century, and remains at this day almost the only relic of its former princely proprietor.

From the Highland House northward the road, remarkable for its smoothness [55]and delightful sheltering trees, extends to Indian Falls, some three miles distant. Passing a deep ravine, through which a sequestered tributary of the Hudson flows deep in the forest glade—so deep that, scarce even the Summer's noon-tide sun can force a single ray through the dense shade—the mountain stream after meandering through miles of untrodden woods, and chafing over its rocky bed, suddenly leaps the rocks fifty feet in height into a deep and glassy pool, forming a scene of surpassing beauty. Beyond, the road continues to Cold Spring, passing the Foundry and affording landscape views north and south, all capable of exciting the most pleasurable emotions.

The Military Exercises, everywhere an attractive spectacle to the American public, are at West Point productive of the most lasting and gratifying impressions, from the unrivaled excellence of the Band, the uniform neatness of the Cadets, and the precision with which the most difficult maneuvers are executed by them. The [56]European traveler, accustomed to schools of instruction separate and apart for the education of Engineers, Artillery, Infantry, and Cavalry Officers, witnesses here with astonishment the perfection and familiarity which the Cadets exhibit in the performance of all the duties pertaining to these four branches of military organization. Some of these exercises are daily and continuous throughout the year, others, owing to the severity of the climate, are restricted to the period between the 15th of March and the 1st of November; and during the Encampment, which includes a part of June and the months of July and August, all studies are suspended, while daily practical instruction prevails as in actual field service.

Commencing on the 1st of September and extending over a term of nine months and a half, during which time the Cadets occupy the Barracks and pursue their Academic studies, their military exercises are as follows:

During the Encampment the hours are changed, and are as follows:

For the purpose of military instruction, the Cadets are organized into a battalion of four companies, called A, B, C, and D Companies. These are arranged with reference to stature, and they contain the four Academic or collegiate classes indiscriminately mingled. The companies are officered in the usual way, by selecting the Captains and Lieutenants from the class longest at the Academy; the Sergeants from the next lowest class, and the Corporals from the next in order. "Chevrons," or badges of gold lace, are worn on each arm by these officers to denote their rank, as follows:

[59]

[60]These appointments are conferred by the Superintendent as honorary distinctions, and are continuous for one year unless forfeited by misconduct. The discipline and spirit of the Corps is in a great degree dependent upon the Cadet Officers, and while they promptly and cheerfully obey their commands, "off duty" they are equals.

In the exercise of their appointments they are required to report to the authorities infractions of the Regulations on the part of their comrades, but all domineering and captious inclinations are restrained, by what may be termed a popular opinion among the Cadets.

The Corps of Cadets usually numbers about 250, and they are organized as already stated into four companies. Immediately intrusted with their supervision and military instruction is the Commandant of Cadets, who is a Lieutenant-Colonel, and he is assisted by six officers, like himself detailed from the army. This organization prevails for all infantry instruction, [61]and for the maintenance of discipline in camp and barracks. In other branches of military instruction, special arrangements are ordered on the basis of class standing in the several classes.

The Encampment commences at the close of the Annual Examination, about the 20th of June, and the camp is located on the Northeast portion of the Plain. This period, affording as it does the only relaxation from study during the year, and as the time for the realization of the long-cherished expectations of the graduating and furlough classes, to enjoy the pleasures of home and early friendships, is one of unusual interest and hilarity. With the disappearance of these two classes, orders are promulgated to pitch the tents, and march into camp at a stated hour. The latter is preceded by a general stampedeing force of Cadets, conveying from the barracks to the now unoccupied recitation rooms all unnecessary articles of furniture. Gray forms are seen with heads crowned with washstands, chairs, mattresses, and [62]other camp-prohibited articles, working with such vigor that, in two or three hours, the barracks are cleared of all Cadet property save their military accoutrements. Before breakfast the camp is laid out and the tents pitched, and at the appointed hour the battalion, with the Band and with colors unfurled, marches to its Summer home.

The Cadet's Encampment

The Encampment consists of eight rows of tents, two to each company, opening on four streets parallel to each other, and a broad avenue runs through the centre of the camp. The tents of the Company Officers and of the Army Instructors of Tactics, are situated opposite their respective companies, while the tent of the Commandant of Cadets is placed centrally at the East end of the broad avenue. The Guard tents, five or six in number, are situated in a line a little distance in front of the whole camp. A chain of six or eight sentinels surrounds the camp day and night. The guard consists of three reliefs, which walk post in turn, during the [63]twenty-four hours for which each guard is detailed. This detail is drawn as equitably as possible from the four companies, and guard duty recurs once in from three to five days, making the duty a real hardship to those not inured to it. The subdivisions of the guard require each relief to walk two hours, and then wait four hours before it is again posted. The operation of changing is as follows: When the relief is duly formed and inspected by the Officer of the Guard, it is marched by its Corporal around the line of posts, and after "Taps," each sentinel challenges the longed-for delegation with a fierce, "Who comes there?" as though the enemy were upon him. The reply of the Corporal leads to a further demand for a cabalistic word which, when whispered, so elevates the party in the estimation of the sentinel, that he quickly abandons his vigilant, defiant manner, and quietly yields his post to his successor, whose place in the ranks of the relief is then most cheerfully accepted.

The camp is governed by the same [64]regulations that accompany an army in the field, except in the preparation of meals, which are supplied at the Cadets' Mess throughout the year.

The presence of visitors contributes much to enliven this period of hardship in Cadet life, and the tri-weekly dancing parties on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings, notwithstanding their abrupt termination at 10 P.M., affords never to be forgotten reminiscences in after life, of social enjoyment and enlightened intercourse with the fair daughters of America, not a few of whom date back their after career to the bewitching influence which marks this season. The Encampment usually terminates on the 29th of August, when the Cadets return to Barrack-life, and recommence their studies. An illumination of the camp usually takes place on the evening before it is broken up, and the convolutions of a "stag dance" are performed on the Parade-ground, with a fervor and vivacity worthy of imitation in a Camanche war-dance. This curious cross in the [65]terpsichorean art, between the pigeon wing, double shuffle, hoe-down, and the quadrille, is a frequent diversion in the Cadet camp. It is performed by twenty or more Cadets, who gyrate between two rows of candles stuck in the ground, cadencing their movements by the very uncertain sounds of a plebeian fiddle and the low muffled rattle of a drum, accompanied by whimsicalities and contortions unknown save at West Point.

The scene presented during the striking of the tents is quite lively and picturesque. In the early hours of the day all the property of the Cadets, such as blankets, clothing, etc., is carried by them to the rooms they are assigned to in the barracks, leaving in camp only their rifles and their accoutrements. At the appointed hour the "general" beats,

when all spring to their posts, awaiting three taps on the bass drum. At the first tap, all except the corner tent cords are [66]cast loose and the pins are withdrawn; at the second, the corner cords and pins are cast loose, and the tent is gathered around the tent-poles and steadied in an upright position, so that at the third tap all the tents instantly go down in concert, and woe to the "gross" one who fails to complete the prostration at the moment. While the tents are folded and piled by one party, a group enliven the scene by songs descriptive of their eagerness

Then the companies are formed, and taking their stacked arms march to the front on the Parade; the Commandant then, with Band and colors unfurled, marches the battalion to the general Parade, in front of the Superintendent's quarters, and the Encampment is no more.

The Academic Exercises of the Cadets are not devoid of interest even to those who are attracted to the spot by the glittering displays of military life; while to those interested in the progress of [67]education, the peculiarities of the system pursued at West Point seldom fails to increase their belief, that the method here followed might be more generally introduced into the great American collegiate system.

The Corps of Cadets, in accordance with the usual custom, is divided into four classes, and the course of study extends through four years in duration. The classes are numbered inversely according to their entrance into the Academy, as the First, Second, Third, and Fourth Classes, corresponding to the Senior, Junior, Sophomore, and Freshman Classes in other institutions. Each class is divided into convenient sections of from twelve to fifteen Cadets, for instruction in its special branches of study, the first Cadet on each section roll being its squad-marcher, and being responsible for its punctual attendance and deportment. The recitation hours are sounded on a bugle, when the sections for the hour are formed at the Barracks, their rolls are called, and they are marched to the Recitation-rooms by their several [68]squad-marchers. The instructor is there waiting their attendance, and after receiving the squad-marcher's report of the absentees, he sends three or more Cadets to the black-board, to discuss the propositions he announces to each; for which purpose they proceed to place their diagrams or analyses on the board. Another is called up on the floor and questioned on the lesson for the day, until one of those at the board is ready. The latter being called on, first enunciates the proposition to be discussed, then gives a condensed analysis of how it should be solved, and then gives the full discussion, delineation, or demonstration with reference to his diagram or analysis. Last of all, and reaching the termination of his subject, the instructor proceeds to question him on the parts slighted or omitted, and upon topics connected with the subject-matter under consideration. It will be seen that the recitation proceeds upon the supposition that the Cadet understands his lesson beforehand, and that the instructor's province is to make sure of the [69]Cadet's thorough and accurate knowledge; to amplify his conceptions, and supply his deficiencies, rather than teach him the subject of the lesson. He also enforces that orderly and lucid exposition and arrangement of the matter, which carries the conviction that the Cadet not only knows his topic, but is able to communicate it to others. He requires accuracy of language, the observance of certain recitation forms, and proprieties in decorum, to a degree far higher than is usually demanded in other institutions. Three sides of the section-room are provided with wall slates or black-boards, and a tray for chalk, wipers, and pointers, extends across the bottom of each. Every Cadet writes his name over his work, and when called upon to recite, assumes the "position of a soldier," until he wishes to refer to his work, when he does so with his pointer. It is a matter of no small magnitude to secure a becoming personal deportment and style in recitation, and to suppress the unmeaning, nervous turnings, rockings, and fumblings, which [70]too often deform the manners of undisciplined students.

The instructor marks each recitation according to his estimate of its quality as referred to a scale of valuation ranging from zero to three, the maximum for a perfect and satisfactory exhibition of knowledge. A weekly report of these daily marks is made to the Superintendent, and exhibited to the Cadets who crowd the hall leading to the Adjutant's office every Monday, to see the official estimate of their performances during the past week. The recitation marks are aggregated for the semi-annual examination in January, and for the annual examination in June, and are mainly decisive of the numerical standing of each Cadet in the different courses of study. Frequent and thorough reviews occur, in which each individual's success is critically observed and considered in making out the standing—a greater weight justly belonging to the final and permanent conquest of a course, than to the earlier [71]recitations. The final examination on the subject also has a material weight.

By combining all these elements, a definite order of arrangement of the members of each class, in each branch of study, is obtained, and from these combined special standings, a general class rank, or order of arrangement according to each individual's merit, is deduced at the close of each annual examination. In determining the standing of the graduating class the special standing of each Cadet in all the branches of study for the four years, including proficiency in discipline, is considered, and possesses a relative weight in deciding the position of each member.

The Annual Examination in June is conducted in the presence of a "Board of Visitors," selected for the purpose by the Secretary of War, and the reports of these Boards, composed of intelligent men of all professions and all political parties, have, for more than forty years, borne favorable testimony to the thoroughness and efficiency of the system of instruction pursued at West [72]Point. The assignment and promotion of the graduating class to corps and regiments in the army, is regulated by the recommendation of the Academic Board, based upon class standing. The highest members only are recommended for the Corps of Engineers, and as the recommendations are almost uniformly adhered to, each Cadet becomes the arbiter of his own destiny, so far as his capacity makes success practicable. He is thus stimulated to good conduct, and the diligent employment of all his mental faculties, by the hope of a choice in the assignments, and of securing after rank, by commission, over his comrades.

How to become a Cadet, is a question not unlikely to arise in the minds of some of the young readers of this volume. The martial aspirant should consider well, before taking any steps toward securing a Cadet appointment, that Cadet life is no mere holiday training—no refined dandyism, but a four years' devotion of mind, body, and heart to discipline and study; more severe, by far, than is required at [73]any other educational institution in the land. But if possessed of an aptitude for mathematical study, of a vigorous realization of the attributes of manhood, and the courage to endure patiently present trials for future good, and finally, if possessed of an ardent desire for intellectual culture, with a view to after usefulness, nowhere can a youth become so well qualified by an educational course to be a man, as by becoming a Cadet at the National Military Academy. The method of procedure to secure an appointment is briefly as follows:

The District of Columbia, and each District of Country entitled to a Member of the House of Representatives in Congress, may secure through him one Cadet appointment. The Cadet so selected should remain four years, but in case he fails to do so, a vacancy arises which the Representative is called upon to fill with a new appointee. Of course, the same thing occurs when the Cadet graduates, and thus the number of Cadets is made equal to the number of Representatives and Delegates [74]in Congress. In addition, every year the President of the United States appoints TEN Cadets, selected at his pleasure from any portion of the country. The appointments by Districts are really made by the Secretary of War, but only on the recommendation of the Member of Congress. An application made to the latter will show whether a vacancy exists—if so, the applicant must plead with him for it. The only other alternative is to secure the favor of being one of the TEN appointed by the President. The official qualifications are herewith appended:

APPOINTMENT AND ADMISSION OF CADETS.

I.—As frequent inquiries are made in regard to the mode of procuring admission into the Military Academy, persons interested in the subject are hereby informed that application may be made at any time (by letter to the Secretary of War) by the applicant himself, his parent, guardian, or any of his friends, that his name may be placed on the register in the office of the Inspector at Washington. The precise age and permanent abode of the applicant, as, also, the number of the Congressional District in which he resides, must be stated, and no application will be considered wherein these instructions are not complied with. No preference is given to applications on account of priority, nor can any information be communicated as [76]to the probable success of an applicant before the appointments are made.

By an act of Congress, the appointment of a person who has served in any capacity in the military or naval service of the so-called Confederate States is prohibited, and, as a general rule, no person will be appointed who has had a brother educated at the Academy.

By provision of law, each Congressional and Territorial District and the District of Columbia is entitled to have one Cadet at the Military Academy, and no more. In addition to these, the appointment annually of a number, not exceeding ten, "at large," not confined to a selection by Congressional Districts, is authorized. The District and Territorial appointments are made upon the nomination of the member of Congress or Delegate representing the District or Territory at the date of appointment, and the law requires that the individual selected shall be an actual resident of the District or Territory, or District of Columbia, from which the appointment [77]purports to be made. The selections "at large" and from the District of Columbia are made by the President.

Appointments are required by law to be made one year in advance of the date of admission—that is to say, about the 1st of July in each year, except in instances where it may be impracticable, from any cause, so to make them. Persons, therefore, receiving appointments have ample time afforded them in which to prepare for a successful examination prior to their admission.

II.—To prevent the disappointment, mortification, and useless expense that might attend the acceptance of a Cadet appointment by a person not possessing the necessary qualifications for admission, and for the instruction and aid of others, the following information is communicated:

Candidates must be over seventeen and under twenty-two years of age at the time of entrance into the Military Academy; no modification of the law in this [78]respect can be made; but any person who has served honorably and faithfully not less than one year as an officer or enlisted man in the army of the United States, either as a Volunteer, or in the Regular service, during the war for the suppression of the Rebellion, shall be eligible for appointment up to the age of twenty-four years. They must be at least five feet in height, and free from any deformity, disease, or infirmity, which would render them unfit for the military service, and from any disorder of an infectious or immoral character. They must be able to read and write well, and perform with facility and accuracy the various operations of the four ground rules of Arithmetic, of reduction, of simple and compound proportion, and of vulgar and decimal fractions. The Arithmetic is to be studied understandingly, and not merely committed to memory. They will also be required to have a knowledge of the elements of English Grammar, of Descriptive Geography, [79]particularly of our own country, and of the history of the United States.

III.—It must be understood that a full compliance with the above conditions will be insisted on; that is to say, the candidate must write a fair and legible hand, and without any material mistakes in spelling such sentences as shall be dictated by the examiners; and he must answer promptly and without errors all their questions in the above-mentioned rules of Arithmetic and in the other branches: failing in any of these particulars, he will be rejected.

IV.—Every candidate will, soon after his arrival at West Point, be subject to a rigid examination by an experienced Medical Board, and should there be found to exist in him any of the following causes of disqualification, to such a degree as will immediately, or in all probability may, at no very distant period, impair his efficiency, he will be rejected:

[80]1. Feeble constitution and muscular tenuity; unsound health from whatever cause; indications of former disease; glandular swellings, or other symptoms of scrofula.

2. Chronic cutaneous affections, especially of the scalp, or any disorder of an infectious character.

3. Severe injuries of the bones of the head; convulsions.

4. Impaired vision from whatever cause; inflammatory affections of the eyelids; immobility or irregularity of the iris; fistula lachrymalis, etc., etc.

5. Deafness; copious discharge from the ears.

6. Loss of many teeth, or the teeth generally unsound.

7. Impediment of speech.

8. Want of due capacity of the chest, and any other indication of a liability to a pulmonic disease.

9. Impaired or inadequate efficiency of one or both of the superior extremities on account of fractures, especially of the [81]clavicle, contraction of a joint, extenuation, deformity, etc., etc.

10. An unusual excurvature or incurvature of the spine.

11. Hernia.

12. A varicose state of the veins of the scrotum or spermatic cord (when large), sarcocele, hydrocele, hemorrhoids, fistulas.

13. Impaired or inadequate efficiency of one or of both of the inferior extremities on account of varicose veins, fractures, malformation (flat feet, etc.), lameness, contraction, unequal length, bunions, overlying or supernumerary toes, etc., etc.

14. Ulcers, or unsound cicatrices of ulcers likely to break out afresh.

V.—During the months of July and August the Cadets are engaged in military duties and exercises, living in camp. The academic exercises commence the beginning of September. The semi-annual examination takes place in January. At this time the Cadets are rigidly examined in the subjects they have studied, and the new [82]Cadets, if found proficient therein (their conduct having been correct in all respects), will receive the warrant of Cadet, and take such a station in their class as their respective merits, as determined at the examination, may entitle them to. If any have been unable to master the course, they will be pronounced deficient by the Academic Board, and their connection with the Academy will cease.

VI.—It is important that it be clearly understood that this examination, like all subsequent ones, is very thorough—does not permit any evasion or slighting of the course, and exacts a very close and persevering attention to study. The examining officers have no option; they must reject the deficient. The nation sends these young men to the Military Academy, supports and pays them adequately, and opens to them an honorable profession, in the expectation that their best efforts will be given to qualify themselves for the higher duties of the military service. Those [83]who will not, or can not, profit by these generous provisions, should not occupy the places of those who will and can.

VII.—In June there is held the "Annual Examination," which, in its character of searching scrutiny, is like the semi-annual examination in January. Cadets who have failed to make the requisite proficiency, and are not likely to succeed in future, are discharged.

VIII.—It will thus be seen that a person must carry to the Academy a certain degree of preparation; good natural parts; an aptitude for study; industrious habits; perseverance; a disposition to conform to discipline, and correct moral deportment. If deficient in any of these respects, it will be best for young men not to enter the Military Academy, as they will thus avoid the probabilities of disappointment and mortification. Many of those who receive appointments fail, through deficiency in the above particulars, to graduate. But [84]it must not be understood that those who fail to master the scientific course taught at the Military Academy, necessarily incur thereby discredit as regards mental ability, since it is by no means rare for intellects otherwise strong to be averse to mathematical investigation, or study of language.

IX.—The pay of a Cadet is $41.66 per month, with one ration per day, and is considered sufficient, with proper economy, for his support.

MEMORANDUM

INDICATING THE METHOD OF EXAMINING CANDIDATES FOR ADMISSION INTO THE MILITARY ACADEMY.

Candidates must be able to read with facility from any book, giving the proper intonation and pauses, and to write portions that are read aloud for that purpose, spelling the words, and punctuating the sentences properly.

[85]In Arithmetic they must be able to perform with facility examples under the four ground rules, and hence must be familiar with the tables of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division; and must be able to perform examples in reduction and vulgar fractions, such as:—

Add 2/3 to 3/4; subtract 2/5 from 5/6.
Multiply 3/4 by 7/8; divide 2/5 by 3/8.

Add together two hundred and thirty-four thousandths (.234), twenty-six thousandths (.026), and three thousandths (.003).

Subtract one hundred and sixty-one ten thousandths (.0161) from twenty-five hundredths (.25).

Multiply or divide twenty-six hundredths (.26) by sixteen thousandths (.016).

They must also be able to change vulgar fractions into decimal fractions, and vice versâ, with examples like the following:—

Change 15/16 into a decimal fraction of the same value.

Change one hundred and two [86]thousandths (.102) into a vulgar fraction of the same value.

In Simple and Compound Proportion, examples of various kinds will be given, and candidates will be expected to understand the principles of the rules which they follow.

In English Grammar candidates will be required to exhibit a familiarity with the nine parts of speech and the rules in relation thereto, and must be able to parse any ordinary sentence which may be given them, and generally they must understand those portions of the subject usually taught in the higher academies and schools throughout the country, comprehended under the heads of Orthography, Etymology, Syntax, and Prosody.

In Descriptive Geography they are to name, locate, and describe the natural grand and political divisions of the earth, and be able to delineate any one of the States or Territories of the American Union, with its principal cities, rivers, lakes, seaports, and mountains.

[87]In History they must be able to name the periods of the discovery and settlement of the North American continent, of the rise and progress of the United States, and of the successive wars and political administrations through which the country has passed.

COURSE OF STUDY

AND

BOOKS USED AT THE MILITARY ACADEMY.

[Books marked thus * are for Reference.]

FIRST YEAR—FOURTH CLASS.

SECOND YEAR—THIRD CLASS.

THIRD YEAR—SECOND CLASS.

FOURTH YEAR—FIRST CLASS.

For the information of visitors, the "Police Regulations" of the Post of West Point, and the "Regulations of the Encampment," are appended:

POLICE REGULATIONS

FOR THE

MILITARY POST OF WEST POINT, N.Y.

1867.

1. "Police Limits" include all territory lying north and east of a line running west from the South Gate to its intersection with the Fort Putnam road, and thence by the road to the cemetery.

2. To prevent interruption to the duties of the Academy, carriages will not be allowed to pass on the road leading by the Academic Hall and Cadets' Barrack, during the hours devoted to study; and at no time by the Hospital, except when required for the accommodation of residents or their visitors, and then at a slow pace.

3. Carriages will be allowed to pass [92]to the West Point Hotel, through the South Gate, by the road below the Hospital, or through the West Gate.

4. On Sundays the gates will be closed, and no vehicle allowed to drive on the Plain without the permission of the Superintendent, except for the purpose of conveying persons to and from Divine Service, to the ferry landings, to obtain medical assistance, or for the private benefit of Officers residing on the Post. Officers will not pass public conveyances through the gates on Sunday.

5. Carts and wagons will use the main road, across the Plain, except when necessity requires them to go upon the private road passing in front of the Quarters, Barrack, and Hospital.

6. Carriages and horses are not permitted to pass, or remain on the road in front of the parade-ground, nor to move about in its vicinity during parade and reviews.

7. Racing, fast driving, and unnecessary noise at all times is prohibited.

8. It is strictly forbidden to drive or ride [93]over any of the sidewalks or paths at West Point, or any part of the Plain or grounds except the carriage roads.

9. All persons are directed to close the gates after them on entering or leaving the public grounds.

10. Officers and citizens may smoke on the Plain; but during the performance of any military duty thereon, no smoking will be allowed on, or in the vicinity of, that part of the Plain which may be occupied for such duty.

11. All persons are prohibited from bathing in the river, during the day, anywhere within police limits.

12. All persons whatever, residing or serving at West Point, are prohibited from hunting or shooting, or using fire-arms for any purpose, within police limits, during week days, and within the limits of the public lands on Sundays.

15. Boats are not permitted to land, except at the public wharves.

16. Every boat, cart, wagon, or vehicle [94]laden with articles, except for officers, may be searched by the officers and non-commissioned officers of the Guard, or members of the Police.

17. All persons are forbidden to receive or transport across the Post any article for excluded individuals.

18. All persons are prohibited from selling any kind of intoxicating liquors, beer, cakes, etc., on the Post, without the permission of the Superintendent.

19. All enlisted men are prohibited from bringing on the Post, or having in their possession, any intoxicating liquor, beer, etc., without the permission of the Superintendent.

20. Persons not connected with the Post, bringing prohibited articles thereon, will be promptly removed by the guard or police, and reported to the Superintendent, to the end that they may be prosecuted for trespass.

21. Pedlers and all improper persons are prohibited from coming on the Post.

22. Excursion or Pleasure Parties, etc., [95]are not allowed to land on the Post, unless specially authorized by the Superintendent.

26. Cadets will not be allowed to cross the ferries without the written permission of the Superintendent. All such permits will be returned as soon as practicable by the ferrymen to the Adjutant's office.

29. No person will be allowed to cut wood on the public lands, break the branches of the trees on the Plain, at the Cemetery, or in the vicinity of Camptown, or to throw stones or sticks into them. Parents will be held responsible for the acts of their children violating this regulation.

34. No citizen will be allowed to wear the uniform, or parts thereof, of officers, cadets, or soldiers.

36. The iron seats in front of the Superintendent's quarters must not be occupied by servants and children when required for visitors.

REGULATIONS

FOR THE

ENCAMPMENT OF THE CADETS,

WEST POINT, N.Y.

1867.

1. All Cadets, with the exception hereinafter mentioned, will confine themselves to the Encampment. Cadets will always hold themselves in readiness for such extra roll calls as the Officer in Charge may be directed to have during his tours. On these occasions, the Assembly will be sounded on the drum, when each man for duty in each company will appear promptly on the company Parade Ground. The companies will be formed without further signal by command of the Sergeants, the rolls called, and the results immediately [97]reported through the proper channels to the Officer of the Day.

2. Cadets will be permitted to wear their fatigue jackets, and their coats unbuttoned, in the body of the Encampment. When the Guard are in fatigue jackets the Battalion will wear the same to meals.

3. There will be one corporal and four privates detailed daily from each company for company Police. A separate Roster for this purpose will be kept, and this detail made from the Third and Fourth Classes. The company Police party will be formed by the corporal on the company ground, at morning and evening Police roll calls, when the company ground, and the ground behind the tents, including the company Officer's Tents, will be thoroughly policed. The corporal of the company Police will be held responsible for the proper police of the company grounds at all Inspections, and also that the Tent Walls of the Tents, when all the occupants are necessarily absent, are raised and lowered at the proper times. He has authority to call on [98]his party at any time, for purposes connected with the Police of his company.

4. The Guard, on the day succeeding that on which it marched off, will constitute the General Police, and will be formed by the Junior Officer of the Guard, on the General Parade Ground, at morning and evening Police calls, and will police those parts of Camp not policed by the company Police party.

5. The Senior Officer of the Guard, on the day succeeding that on which he marched off, will be Camp Officer of the Police for that day, and will report his presence to the Officer of the Day at all roll calls of companies. He will have general charge of the Police of Camp, will inspect the Police parties when at work, see that they are all present, and that they perform their duties properly.

6. The Officers of the Police will not dismiss their parties until after their work has been inspected by the Camp Officer of the Police, and not until he has expressed his satisfaction at the manner in which it [99]has been done. Should he deem it necessary, at any time during his tour, to turn out the Police parties for duty, they will promptly obey his orders.

7. All Details for Guard, company Police, etc., will be posted on a Bulletin Board, at the Tents of the 1st Sergeants of the companies.

8. The Members of the First Class, between Revéille and Retreat, will be permitted to have the limits of the Plain, included within the Main Road, passing in rear of Camp, in front of the Hotel Yard, the Quarters of the Superintendent, the Barracks, and the Library. Cadets can visit the Library during Library hours, but the Barracks and the confectioner's can be visited only by special permission.

9. The permission to walk on Public Lands on Saturday afternoons, granted to Cadets in Barracks, is withdrawn.

10. Cadets will be allowed to bathe at or near Gee's Point, between Revéille and Breakfast, and between Retreat and Tattoo. Cadets wishing to bathe, will be formed in [100]the company Parade Ground, and be marched to and from the place of bathing, by the Senior Non-commissioned Officer present. The members of the Old Guard, during the morning after marching off, will be permitted to walk on Public Lands until 1 o'clock, and bathe at Washington's Valley during the same time, except on Sundays, when they will be excused from Divine Service.

11. All Cadets, except Officers of the First Class, will pass in and out of Camp by crossing Post No. 1, reporting their departure and return to the Officer of the Guard, who will keep a correct list of the same, and note the time. Cadets will visit the Commissary's only between the hours of 8-1/2 and 9-1/2 A.M., and 1-1/2 and 3 P.M., and the Confectioner's between 1 and 4 P.M.

12. Permission to walk on Public Lands, does not include the Commissary store out of hours, the Hotel, the Hospital, Wharfs, public or private buildings, or any other place on the Point, forbidden by Regulations.

[101]13. At Taps, all lights will be extinguished in Camp, except those in Tents of Officers of the First Class, of the 1st Sergeants, and the Officers and Sergeant of the Guard.

14. Immediately after Taps, the company Officers will inspect their companies, and see that all Cadets are properly undressed and in bed; they will remain in their company grounds long enough to insure quietness and order in their companies, and will report all Cadets who leave their Tents for any purpose whatever.

15. Visiting in Camp after Taps is prohibited, and the Officers in the performance of their duty will confine themselves to the limits of their company grounds.

16. The Officer of the Guard will allow no Cadet, except members of his guard, to pace the Posts of Nos. 2 and 6 after Taps, except by permission of the Commanding Officer, or the Officer in charge; and he will, at all times, preserve proper order and quiet at the Guard Tents.

17. Citizens will not be allowed in the [102]body of the Encampment except when accompanied by an Officer, or for the purpose of visiting an Officer. For the latter purposes, they will be permitted to cross all sentinels' posts except those of Nos. 3 and 5. The Officer of the Day, and the Officer and Non-commissioned Officers of the Guard, together with the sentinels, will, when they observe citizens in camp for any other purpose, politely notify them of this order.

18. The Color Guard will remain with the Guard until Retreat, when the members will be permitted to go to their own tents. At Revéille, they will again join the Guard.

19. All Prisoners and Cadets in arrest, will march to and from meals with the Guard, which will be marched both to and from same by an officer of the Guard.

20. All Cadets passing within fifteen paces of the Color Line, will salute the colors.

21. On Saturday afternoons until Tattoo, the Officer of the Day will inspect and [103]verify the presence and behavior of all Cadets in confinement, making his rounds for that purpose every hour.

22. Cadets receiving permits will present them to the Officer of the Guard, who will register them; and the Cadet taking advantage of it, is required to notify the Officer of the Guard of his departure and return. All the permits will then be left with the Officer of the Guard, who will transmit them, with his report, to the Officer of the Day, who will in turn transmit them to the Commandant. Cadets visiting the Hotel, will register their permits immediately in the book kept at the office for that purpose.

23. No Cadet will be permitted to visit the Hotel before Guard Mounting, nor between 1 and 3 P.M., and 7 and 8 P.M.

24. Cadets who are excused from Divine Service, will remain in their quarters during the continuance of same. This applies also to those who attend either the Catholic or Methodist service.

25. Members of the Guard will not leave [104]the Guard Tents without permission from the Officer of the Guard, who will see that their absence is not unnecessarily long.

26. Cadets will not be permitted to smoke outside the body of the Encampment.

27. All official communications from Cadets will be made in proper forms, and must pass through the hands of their company Commanders.

28. It is requested of Officers and citizens that they will not smoke on the General Parade Ground, or when crossing a sentinel's post.

29. The Guard will permit no person except Cadets, Officers, their servants, or Orderlies, to enter camp during the absence of the Battalion.

30. The Guard will be formed and inspected at Revéille, Retreat, and Tattoo, and during Parades will remain formed.

31. Cadets in arrest or confinement, wishing to bathe, will apply to the Commandant for permission, and be marched from and back in charge of a guard.

[105]32. Cadets performing extra tours of punishment, will not be put on the Color Line.

33. No Cadet will employ another to do any duty for which he has been detailed, without permission.

34. Cadets on sick report will not apply for permission to visit.

35. The body of the Encampment is defined to be that portion of the Encampment included between the company Officers' Tents and the Front Line of company Tents.

FOOTNOTES:

A Standard Work for every Public and Private Library.

HISTORY

OF

WEST POINT,
AND ITS

Military Importance During the American Revolution,

AND THE

ORIGIN AND PROGRESS

OF THE

UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY.

By CAPTAIN EDWARD C. BOYNTON, A.M.,
ADJUTANT OF THE MILITARY ACADEMY.

ONE VOLUME OCTAVO, 408 PAGES.

Printed on Tinted Paper, beautifully Illustrated with Maps and
Fine Engravings, chiefly from Photographs taken on the
spot by the Author; bound in blue cloth,
bevelled boards, $6.00.

D. VAN NOSTRAND, Publisher,
192 BROADWAY, NEW YORK.

Copies sent free by mail on receipt of Price.

Part First

Relates to the early acquisition of West Point by the United States, and the military importance of the Post during the period of the American Revolution; embracing the rise and progress of the fortifications, and the purchase and arrangement of the Great Chain, designed to obstruct the navigation of the Hudson River, drawn from authentic documents, and illustrated by Maps and Engravings never before published.

The perfidious designs of Benedict Arnold, and his connection with Major John André, Adjutant-General of the British Army in America, are succinctly described, together with the "Proceedings of the Board of General Officers," in the case of Major André, in a fac-simile form as published at the time by the authority of the Continental Congress.

The grand feu de joie at West Point on the occasion of the birth of the Dauphin of France, in 1782, with all the changes in the Garrison prior to the beginning of the present century, and many of the Orders of Washington from this spot, are now for the first time given to the public.

Part Second

Describes the origin of the Military Academy, and its progress down to the present date; the recognition of the necessity for such an institution at the very commencement of the Revolution, and the accumulated opinions in its favor upon the restoration of peace, as pronounced by the leading minds in the country, are given.

The Constitutionality of the institution, its alleged aristocratic tendencies, and the services of its graduates in and without the military profession, are treated at length.

The progress of the institution under each successive Superintendent, the erection and removal of the Early Public Buildings, illustrated by accurate Engravings and Descriptions, together with those of modern date, will be found to constitute an interesting feature in the work.

To those who seek admission into the Military Academy, or who desire to know the manner of selecting Cadets and making appointments, the course of life, the employment of time, and the duties of instruction afterward, full and complete information has been carefully prepared and imparted to the reader.

To the visitor or tourist, the work points out and describes (with the aid of a Map) all the objects of interest connected with the old Forts, and the Public Buildings, as they exist, and the method of obtaining access to all such is given.

The Appendix

Contains the roll of the Academic Staff, from the commencement of the institution; the five most distinguished Cadets in each class from 1817 to the present date, as published by the War Department; a numerical list of all the Cadets who have been admitted into the Military Academy, and the States and Territories whence appointed; a similar list of all the graduates of the institution, together with a synopsis of all the laws of the United States relative to the Military Academy, and a sketch of military education and the military schools in Europe.

These are a few only of the subjects of interest to be found in the work. No efforts has been spared to encompass and exhaust the whole subject, with the view to render the work an authority.

List of Maps and Illustrations.

NOTICES OF THE PRESS.

"The author has, with painstaking industry, gathered into one view whatever could be gleaned from our annals, not only in regard to the origin and progress of the Military Academy, but in reference to the previous history of West Point as an important Military Station during the American Revolution.

"This work is a valuable addition to our historical literature, and will furnish to the thousands of graduates from the West Point Academy a most valuable souvenir of their alma mater."—Army and Navy Journal.

"The associations of West Point, the seat of the United States Military Academy, are in this respect remarkable, that they derive their interest exclusively from the circumstances incidental to the birth and progress of the nation. The history of the place is an important part of the nation's history. It was the objective point in that drama of Arnold's treason, which, by involving the fate of André, is remembered as one of the most romantic incidents in the story of the war. The aspect of the place in connection with the events of that time is given by that method of description which always leaves the sense of historic verity. The author has presented his subject not so much in his own narrative as by a judicious combination of extracts from documents and papers of original authority; although his own observations, by way of correction and explanation, are given in good taste, and indicate a candid judgment. Capt. Boynton's book should command the interest of those who know most of West Point, and of those who know nothing about it."—Atlantic Monthly.

"It records the earliest attempt at instituting a Military School by the Continental Congress in 1776. It conducts us through the life of the institution, arguing with terseness its constitutionality, defending its educational principles, and explaining the necessity for its preservation. We commend this volume to our readers with perfect confidence, believing that they will be more than amply repaid by its careful perusal. We ourselves have lingered with pleasure over its pages, and predict for the work great success, as one of the most valuable and interesting additions that has of late years been made to our historical literature."—United Service Magazine.

"Aside from its value as an historical record, the volume under notice is an entertaining guide-book to the Military Academy and its surroundings. We have full details of Cadet life from the day of entrance to that of graduation, together with descriptions of the buildings, grounds, and monuments. To the multitude of those who have enjoyed at West Point the combined attractions, this book will give in its descriptive and illustrated portion especial pleasure; while the critical reader will be quite ready to agree fully with the modest author, that a 'nucleus of truth' has been established as a basis for a more minute history, if such should ever be needed."—New York Evening Post.

"The second part of the book gives the history of the Military Academy from its foundation in 1802, a description of the Academic buildings, and the appearance to-day of this always beautiful spot, with the manner of appointment of the Cadets, course of study, pay, time of service, and much other information yearly becoming of greater value, for West Point has not yet reached its palmiest days.

"The book is beautifully printed on thick tinted paper, with excellent illustrations and an abundance of those fine clear-cut maps in which your true West Pointer so much delights."—Boston Daily Advertiser.

"We cannot close without thanking Capt. Boynton for the vast amount of information so well collated in his book, and for his clear statement of the history and condition of the Academy from the beginning to the present time."—North American Review.