§ COLONEL STUART KNOXsaid, he would beg to ask the Secretary of State for War, Whether he has now the right to interfere with the command, discipline, and patronage of the Army, or is such power, as it formerly was, expressly excepted in the wording of the Warrant appointing the Secretary of State?
§ MR. CARDWELLSir, Secretaries of State receive their office from the Sovereign by the delivery of the Seals, and since 1861, whenever Patents have been held by the Secretary of State for War, the limitation to which the Question refers has been omitted. The command, discipline, and patronage of the Army are in the hands of the Field Marshal Commanding-in-Chief, subject to the approval of the Secretary of State. I have repeatedly said that I am responsible for the approval of every appointment that is made; but it must be dearly understood that the patronage of the Army does not originate with me, and is en- 323 tirely independent of any influence, political or personal, on my part.