British general (1833-1885) who, in 1860, crushed the Taiping Rebellion in China, earning the nickname 'Chinese.' ALS signed “C. G. Gordon,” eight pages on two sets of adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, October 27, 1868. Letter to "Mr. Smith," written from Gravesend, Kent, where he commanded the Royal Engineers' efforts to erect forts for the defense of the River Thames. In part: "It is strange what you say about Sir W. and his regard for me, to me, I do not think we ever got on well, for on no subject, do we really agree & he will not be argued with so I have to give in. I openly say no real friendship can exist under such circumstances whatever might be eventually developed. Doctor Stevenson often speaks as you do, on another subject, but when I say to him, suppose you were to bell the cat, he says no, 'I tried & failed,' and cannot try again. I would not wish my happiness to be solitary, but when the means of that happiness, are I hope, humbly pointed out, and are rebuffed so very abruptly, discretion, good taste, and above all, kindly feeling desirous not to give offence are not a vital point, make me silent. I say not a vital, for I believe that most believers are wanting in that item. Happiness in this world under all trial is the portion of but a few, though I think it might be the portion of all believers.
However to go back to Sir W. it is impossible to me to say how much and totally we differ. I will write to him as I do periodically and I have also asked Col. Jervois at W.O. to tell the Duke, that I think if he offered him some employ he would not again refuse which Jervois was very glad to do and wrote me a very nice letter about the same shewing he felt he owed Sir W. something for past affairs. Do not mention this!! I scarcely need say that, need I? If he got employed I must say I should be selfishly glad a little, for then I would have quiet. Excuse so much about self. I am glad to say I am better and I am back at Gravesend again. I hope Mrs. Smith is well, I admire the bravery with which she contended with Sir W. in walking. I had to go to town today on duty, and saw in St. James Park some ganders & geese with knobs (bright orange) as big as our friend at Bothwell & as proud & thought of our trip. My friend who was expatiating on something was disgusted at my interest in the noblemen and did not see the propriety of my remarks. They were proclaiming their great truth loudly, and calling for admiration." In fine condition.
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