Conversation with the military men now in Chicago--we mean those in active service--goes far toward proving that the late attack upon Black Kettle by Custar was nothing but an unwarranted massacre, pure and simple. In an exchange of views with an officer on General Grant's staff, on Monday evening, the writer was enlightened, in substance, as follows: "There is a strong feeling among military men, at Washington, that Custar has made a serious mistake; and that his attack is simply a repetition of the Chivington affair. Colonel Wynkoop is a man who is thoroughly reliable, and his assertion of the pacific character of Black Kettle and his band can be relied on. His statement in this respect, is indorsed by General Palmer, who is thoroughly familiar with matters on the plains. I think that Gen. Custar was, in a measure, forced into making the attack. After marching the long distance that he did, his men probably, demanded and would have blood."
    This opinion is undoubtedly that of General Grant, and it most assuredly is that of General Sherman, whose quick, clear brain readily distinguishes between right and wrong.--Chicago Times.

Source:

Unknown, "More of Custar and Black Kettle," The Daily Kansas State Journal, Lawrence, Kansas, Thursday Morning, 23 December 1868, Vol. IV, No. 135, p. 1, col. 2.