Norfolk Virginian, January 24, 1891

Captain Wise's Son Deficient.

[New York Letter. 22,]

The Hon John S. Wise has a son a cadet at West Point who at the recent examination was found to be deficient in mathematics. He was accordingly notified that his resignation would be accepted. Mr. Wise being very desirous to have his son, who is a third classman, pass through the entire course unscathed, has sought the good offices of the President and Secretary of War in behalf of his son. He wants the authorities at West Point to give the delinquent a year's leave of absence, with the privilege of entering the third class next year, instead of forcing him to resign. It is not often that an order of this kind is issued, and only in exceptional cases. Young Wise is said to be proficient in other branches of the course. He is not in robust health. He entered the Academy while only sixteen, and the severe mental strain he has undergone has weakened his constitution. -- [We trust that the effort of the father in behalf the son, may be crowned with success. -- ED. VIRGINIAN.