The petty malice of a brigadier general. — Journal of Surgeon Alfred L. Castleman.

March 3d.–In the way of petty tyranny, it seems another Richmond has entered the field. Last week I was presented by some of my friends with a very pretty sword, as a testimonial of their respect and affection for me. To-day I am informed by General _____ that this cannot be tolerated. All the persecution which he and his satellites have heaped on me, have not been sufficient to alienate the affections of those for whom and with whom I have labored for the good of the regiment; but all those who have had any part in the presentation of that sword are to be punished, and this, too, at a time when all ranks, from Corporals to Major Generals, are receiving like testimonials! But (?) the head of this Brigade having failed to crush a Surgeon, aspires to a personal quarrel with privates and nurses. Magnanimous General! I have received a positive order, to-day, to ascertain the names of all who had any hand in the presentation of the sword, and to report them to headquarters, and I have just as positively refused to stoop to participate in any such dirty work. I leave all the honor to the Brigadier General, and after he has vented his malice on such of the privates as he can get other tools to hunt out for him, he is at liberty to try his hand on me again for this disobedience of his dirty order. The work is worthy of him, and of the tools he employs.