"IN RE HAGOOD"

Having succeeded in stirring up a rousing jamboree with Democratic discredit for its occasion, and Major-General Hagood for its toastmaster and buffoon, the Republicans have generously withdrawn from the fun, and left the opera bouffa to their distracted rivals. Through the pungent clouds of gas that hang over Congress and the War Department loom one or two incontrovertible facts.

The memorandum from the Chief-of-staff, General Craig, to the Secretary of War, is clear and succinct in its condemnation of Hagood for having overstepped his duties as an army officer and public servant. Craig commends his subordinate's professional efficiency and brilliant intellect, but calls his remarks before the House Appropriations subcommittee flippant and in direct breach of accepted army policy: which is that no political utterances should be made by an army officer. Hagood's statements, designedly or otherwise, brought criticism and ridicule upon the army and his superiors, including the Commander-in-Chief, and are so much the more reprehensible. This is not the first like offence committed by General Hagood; and on all these grounds General Craig recommends his punishment in the interest of the Service.

The public prints with characteristic acumen seized upon this case as juicy and slightly smelly news. Political nerves in general are so jumpy these days that any chance to sling a little mud is snapped up avidly. Consequently only by reading General Craig's memorandum is it possible to realize why Hagood should be punished, regardless of any political significance his case may have.