The source for that representation–completely uncorroborated, by the way–is the postwar memoir of the regimental surgeon of the 6th Ohio Cavalry of DM Gregg’s division. He claims that Gregg told him this.

There is NOTHING to corroborate or substantiate it. I think that the reason for what General Gregg did was to avoid being under the command of Phil Sheridan again. Sheridan hung Gregg out to dry at the end of the Trevilian Station raid, and then Gregg watched Sheridan trash the careers of two of his friends/West Point classmates, Alfred Torbert and W.W. Averell. I’m sure Gregg figured he was next, and I’m sure he had no interest in serving under Sheridan further. I believe that’s why he resigned.

Gregg, being an Victorian gentleman, did not say why. His letter of resignation says that he had pressing family business to attend to at home, and none of his postwar writings say anything different. There is no record of anything being said, and only that single uncorroborated reference by Rockwell that Longacre latched onto. I would not give it any credence.

Long John is a largely neglected fellow.

Kate

I’m glad to hear you agree with my assessment of why DM Gregg resigned. To me, it’s the only explanation that makes any sense.

Eric