"My failures have been errors in judgment, not of intent"

This quote by Ulysses S. Grant suggests that any failures he has experienced have actually been because of errors in his decision-making, rather than an absence of effort or objective. Grant is indicating that he has always had the best of objectives, but that his decisions have actually not always been the most prudent. This could be translated as a sign of humbleness, as Grant is acknowledging that he is not infallible which he has actually made mistakes. It could also be seen as a sign of strength, as Grant is taking responsibility for his mistakes and not blaming them on external aspects. Eventually, this quote speaks with Grant's character and his desire to accept duty for his actions.