March 9, 1863, The New York Herald
A year ago a great outcry was raised against the general then in command of the Army of the Potomac because he did not advance against the enemy over impracticable roads during the rainy season. The experience of two other generals since at the head of the same army demonstrates that to be “stuck in the mud” in Virginia is not peculiar to any one general. It is an inevitable result of the […..] sacred soil,” and the rebel chiefs, who are supposed to know the country better than our generals, have to share the common lot. Their movements are equally crippled, unless so far as they have railroads at command. We are glad to learn, however, that three days ago the roads were in such fine condition in the vicinity of the Rappahannock that military movements were quite practicable, which fact, coupled with the reconnoissances recently made, would indicate that we may soon have stirring news from the Army of the Potomac. The snow and rain storm that has since intervened at the North may, perhaps, have extended to Virginia and arrested any contemplated operations; but the storm is light, and two or three dry days will be sufficient to put the roads in good order again. The Army of the Potomac is described as in excellent condition and fine spirits, ready for any enterprise to which it may be led by General Hooker.