v. ^;'>'i^/ / "^^c. ^/^^S2a^^^ ^■ PERSONAL REMINISCENCES OF THE LATE WAR, BY H. W. BOLTON. Introduced by F. A. HARDIN, D. D. EDITED BY H. G. JACKSON, D. D. PUBLISHED By H. W. BOLTON, 409 W. Monroe, CHICAGO, ILL. 1 fVIAR 2 1896) The Sons of Veterans of the Late War, This Volume is Respectfully Dedicated, By the Author. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1S92, BY HORACE W. BOLTON, in the Office of Librarian of Congress at Washington. PREFACE. It is proper to say that most of the Chapters in this volume have already appeared as a series of contributions to a well known periodical; and it is only because of the favorable reception accorded them in that form, that the author ventures to pre sent them again to the reading public, sHghtly altered and with some valuable additions from other pens. And now if this little book shall serve to arouse, for one moment, a feeling of patriotism in the hearts of those who may read it ; or revive in the breast of some comrade a pleasing memory of army life— the camp, the march, the shout and dm of conflict, happily forever past — it will have accomplished all that the author has dared to hope. H. W. BOLTON. CONTENTS. Chapter I. ( ( II. t e III. cc IV. it V. I i VI. el VII. C i VIII. I i IX. C ( X. it XI. it XII. it XIII. it XIV. it XV. it XVI. It XVII. it XVIII it XIX. I i XX. 1 1 XXI. it XXII. tt XXIII Preface. Introduction. The Cost of War. The Civil War. Enlisting and Going to the Front. From Augusta, Me. , to Washing- ton, D. C. Antietam. Falling out of the Ranks. The First D. C. Cavalry. Winter of 1863-64 with Co. D. Gen. Kautz's Raid. Wilson's Raids. After the Raids. An Artillery Duel. Sycamore Church and Cox's Mills. Chaplin Beaudry's Narrative. Hospital. Mustered Out. Col. Cribben's Narrative. Col. Cribben's Narrative, (contin- ued.) Organizations after the War. Organizations, (continued.) Some of the Generals when with the Boys. Pen Pictures. Memorial Day Address by Col. Jas. A. Sexton. INTRODUCTION. Through the kindness of the author I am allowed to write the opening words to his book of " Beminueiices." Not to herald its contents, or present the writer, who is already well and favorably known to the reading public, but simply to add a testimony to the value of the war history of our nation, whatever throws light on the subject must be of interest to the on coming people, what the present time demand is that which will make one familiar with the every day life of the citizen soldier. Every regiment in the army has, in addition to its war re- cord, "its characters." Those peculiarly odd "geniuses" that season camp life with wit and wisdom. The "pepper" and "salt" of a soldier's existence, without them things would have be come monotonous. Nothing develops so readily the points of character in a man as camp life. Thrown upon his own resources for every thing the soldier takes the shortest route to comfort or fun. Whatever contributes to the former he will have regardless of expense, and that which hightens the latter will be sought out and appropriated; all who are familiar with the "Camp- fire" will find in it that which kept alive in the boys the spirit of patriotic devotion and helped them over hard places in the army. Through these characters each regiment became marked ofE in broad outline from others, and a stranger could not long be within the lines without coming to know the man VI. INTRODUCTION. who was the life and music of the company, by these a regi- ment is often better known than by its battles. A striking ex- ample is found in the 35th Ind. Vols., known as the Irish regiment, which Genl. llosencrantz called the "gallant little 35th." The mention of this regiment at once recalls two in- separable characters. Paddy Smith and Billy Bryan, one a soldier of fortune, and the. other, to use his own words, an unfortunate "soger." I first met them in the campaign through Kentucky and'from personal knowledge I affirm that could these sayings along the line of march be collected and given to the public with the time, place and circumstances that called them into existence they would be read at a single sitting, although the whole night should wear away with the feast. Sometimes under the most solemn and oppressive in- telligence, one or the other would touch a spring of humor and the melancholy feeling would roll away like the mist be- fore the rising sun. Though rough in exterior they possessed a vein of true humanity and religion in strange contrast with their conduct. They had been some months in the service without receiving any pay. The paymaster, that esteemed individual, had not made his appearance, and everything was to be done as soon as "I (jit me pay." Poor Paddy was taken sick. The sur- geon's art failed, and Paddy, as a last resort, called in the Priest, the good and brave Father Cooney\ it was apparent to the Father and to Paddy "that he must soon sling his knap- sack and march." The good Father prepared the dying man for his journey into the future, while Billy, his faithful com- panion, sat beside him sobbing like a broken-hearted girl, for he had come to stay with his comrade until the sands of life ran out. "Well, Paddy," said his friend, "Are you goin' to lave us?" "Indadel suppose I am," said Paddy, "an glad I am to lave this dirty world." " You may well say that, Paddy," retorted Billy, "for you have had your own fun out iv it." "Oh, Billy," exclaimed Father Cooney, "how can you have such livity, when will you be ready to lave it?" "Be Jabers, as soon as I gits me pay." This was too much and the INTRODUCTION. VII. tent shook with merriment, even the dying man smiled at the reply of his trusted friend. Father Cooney was a great favorite: among the boys. Dr. Stevenson tells of a conversation that runs like this; the good Priest came upon a company of boys trying to amuse them- selves, and greeted them with a pleasant word.whereuponthe boys began, "Do ye say Urn, God bless him, the likes of him can't be found between here and the OianVs Causeway'' Another joined, "Thrue ye, Tim, be gorra his match couldn't be found iv ye thraveled all the way from Dan to Barsheba.'' Still another, "An he'll be countin' his bades among the stars when many of his callin' are huntin' a dhrap of wather in a hot climate" Very many hard things are said of quartermasters, who, under our military system, are commissaries. There are' however, exceptions to all cases, and I happen lo know one who furnished material for a whole volume, he still delights m the pseudonym of '' Big Rations," a term applied to him by the boys. He, too, was a character, full of kindness; he abounded with wit and humor. I refer to Lieut. Igoe, of the Irish regiment before mentioned. He considered that his office as Q. M. was to provide for the comfort of the boys, hence he had a horror of "army regulations;" he abominated all orders, general or special, that inflicted on him the " red tape routine," and not unfrequently he would smash all rules that stood in his way as a good provider; the result was he came in collision with his superiors. So they demanded of him from Washington a statement of his affairs. He gathered up al] his receipts and loose papers and vouchers, putting them care- fully in a keg, headed them up and sent them to Washington, stating to the department that as they had more time than he they could assort and arrange the papers to suit themselves, remarking that if they could make anything out of them they could do better than he had done. Of course the matter was not satisfactory to the department at Washington, and notice was served on him to make his report in form or he would be "sent for" to come to Washington. The following was his reply VIII. INTRODUCTION. " Headquarters of the Irish Regiment, Quartermaster's Department. Dear Sir:— Your kind and friendly note of inst. is before me, I regret exceedingly that you cannot make any- thing out of the keg full of papers forwarded some two months ago. In order to facilitate the solution of the difficulty I take great pleasure in sending another box full. I have long contemplated a visit to the capitol of this great, and mighty nation but my finances being in such a dilapidated condition I have been forced to forgo the pleasure; I will be pleased to make a visit to your, I am told, delightful city under the aus- pices of and at the expense of our much afflicted government. Accept my kindest regards. M. Igoe, Lieut, and A. Q M." But before a reply came he was captured by John Morgan, with books, papers and wagons. He made a final settlement, stating in a humorous way the incidents of his capture. To this day it his boast that the great raider settled his affairs with the "big conastogies at Washington." Wishing you all a happy campaign through these personal recollections, and adding my testimony to the soldierly qual ities and manly virtues of the author, 'I am, most respectfully, Frank A. Hardin, Late Lieut. Col. 57th Ind. Vols. Reminiscences of the Late War. CHAPTER I. THE COST OF WAR. War is an expensive pastime! Considered as an occasional business enterprise it is doubtful if in most instances it does not cost a great deal more than it comes to. Only when there is involved a question of honor, or a principle of right, or the liberty of a people, can there be any justification of the expenditure of blood and treasure that is the inevitable attendant upon the strife of nations. In ancient times wars were more frequent than now, and were, in most cases, waged in obedience to the caprice or ambition of some monarch, whose chief, if not sole, claim to the throne was based on his skill as a strategist, or on his prowess in battle. The people, trained from youth in military exercises and accustomed to deeds of bravery and peril in the "imminent deadly breach,'' knew .and cared for no other glory than that which was to be acquired by feats of arms. The common soldier thought little of the cause for which his leader was contending, 10 REMINISCENCES. whether it was one of justice or of mere personal ambition; for in either case the fighting was the same, and the opportunities for personal distinction about equal; the glory of winning victories, and the resulting chance for plunder and rapine were the spur of his ambition. He did not trouble himself about the morals of his bloody occupation. The cost of ancient wars was, of course, considerable, though limited to the maintenance of the army, in- cluding the meager pay allowed the soldiers. Arms and equipments cost but little, and were the per- sonal property of the soldier. A battle added almost nothing to the money cost of the campaign. In a hand to hand conflict no ammunition was wasted, and unless a weapon was lost or broken in the melee it remained as serviceable as ever. The cost in hu- man lives, however, was heavier in ancient than in modern wars. A Roman battle ax, sword, or spear, at the distance of a single pace was a more deadly weapon than a Martini-Henry rifle several hundred yards away. Fewer prisoners were taken, and the severely wounded were despatched at once, or left to die on the fickl, hence the loss of life was great, especially on the part of the army suflcring defeat. The inventions that have come to the aid of modern warfare would perhaps add to its destructlveness, were it not for the fact that these have been accom- panied by a great advance in the sentiments of humanity and mercy. Feelings of personal ani- mosity do not now animate the soldier; he is not CARE FOR THE SICK. 11 blood thirsty, and does not wantonly kill the wounded and captured. The number actually killed in battle is small compared with those who die of disease and exposure, and those who are made pris- oners of war. The w^ounded and sick are cared for as well as circumstances will permit, and thus the horrors of Avar are to some extent mitigated. But after all, as the late General Sherman declared, war is a relic of barbarism, and fortunate will it be for mankind when the era of universal peace is inaug- urated and the nations learn war no more. The government of the United States, compared with the other principal governments now existing, has enjoyed a reasonable immunity from war and its costly accompaniments. Not counting the vari- ous Indian wars, and those with the Barbary States, Tripoli and Algiers, we have waged with successful issue four wars, viz: The Revolutionary war, the war of 1812 with Great Britain, the Mexican war, and the Civil war, ending in 1865. The aggregate number of men engaged in these Avars is 3,771,0-11, nearly three-fourths of whom were called into service during the civil war. The number of liA^es lost is not far from 375,000 on the side of the government of the United States, with no doul)t an equal num- ber on the side of the opposing forces. But this does not take into account the number permanently disabled by Avounds, or those Avhose lives were shortened by exposure and injuries received while in the service. The direct cost to the government in 12 REMINISCENCES. money may be put at three and a half billions of dollars, to which amount should be added one bill- ion one hundred and fifty millions of dollars paid in pensions up to the end of 1S90. Double this amount undoubtedly will yet be paid to those who fought to preserve the government, and no })atriotic citizen will find fault with that item of expenditure. In addition to the Avars named we should give some attention to the Indian wars that have been waged from time to time by the government of the United States. These have not called into active ser- vice any very large body of troops, nor have they resulted in great loss of life on cither side; neverthe- less in these respects the results have not been so insignificant as to be unworthy of notice, while the cost in money has been altogether out of proportion to the good achieved. From the year 1776 to 1890 the Indians have cost the government a billion of dollars; two-thirds of which amount has been ab- sorbed in fighting them, and the remainder in paci- fying and supporting them while they were hatch- ing some new scheme of attack upon the whites. The government has not been ungenerous in its dealings with the Indians. Unless we are ready to concede that a mere handful of savages should possess this continent in perpetuity, to the exclu- sion of the millions of civilized people whom it is capable of sustaining in plenty and happiness, "^e must admit the right of the whites to dispossess the Indians of the greater portion of North America, in INDIANS. 13 accordance ■with the immutable law that Ijarbarism must recede before the advance of civilization. The Indians have not been exterminated. On the con- trary it is held by the latest and best authority on the subject that the Indian population within the bounds of the United States is now substantially what it was when Columbus discovered America. The popular notion that the melancholy red man, musing upon the departed glories of his ancestors, "Slowly climbs the western mountains and reads his doom in the setting sun;" like the "nobility" of this same red man, and the fawn-like grace and beauty of the traditional Indian maiden, has its birth in the fervid imagination of the orator and the poet, without any basis of truth. The Indians are not "fading away," nor are they being huddled together on uncomfortably limited reservations. True they have not quite as much room as they had when half a million Indians claimed the entire terri- tory now occupied by sixty-five millions of civilized people, but they have enough. The Indian reser- vations, if divided out in severalty, would give nearly a square mile of land to every Indian, squaw and papoose; so that if they would be content to settle down upon their land and become industrious citizens, instead of lawless vagabonds, they might in the near future be counted among the richest landed proprietors in America. So far as loss of life is concerned in the wars be- tween the Indians and the government troops, the 14 REMINISCENCES. Indians have had far the best of it; witness the Mo- doc war, in the lava beds, in which General Canby was treacherously assassinated and 111 soldiers and seventeen citizens were killed or wounded. "No Indians reported killed." Witness the battle of the Little Big Horn, June 25th, 1S76, when General Custer and his devoted regiment, like Leonidas and the three hundred Spartans at Thermopylfe, without the exception of a single man, gave up their lives in heroic action. But unlike the Spartans, the Amer- icans died unavenged, a useless sacrifice on the altar of savage warfare! Still it must be admitted that some of these miserable Indian wars have been pro- voked by the foolishness or dishonesty of those representing the government; and dearly has the government paid for the incompetency or rascality of its agents. What is known as the great Sioux war started in 1852. Some Mormons were driving their cattle toward Salt Lake. When near Fort Laramie, one of a band of Indians gathered there killed a cow belongmg to a Mormon. The emigrant made complaint, and the officer in command at the fort sent out a subordmate with twenty men to in- vestigate. The little force went to the Indian camp and demanded the surrender of the one who had killed the cow. To this demand the Indians replied that they were willing to pay for the animal in bufialo robes; but the officer declined to accept them, and repeated his demand for the immediate surrender of the Indian. The Indians persisted in INDIAN AVARS. 15 their refusal, and the oflSccr gave the order to fire. The men obeyed, and in less than twenty minutes every soldier was killed and scalped. Thus began the Sioux war of 1852. It lasted about four years, and ccvst the government between fifteen and twenty millions of dollars. That Mormon's cow, and Mrs. O'Leary's, the starter of the great Chicago fire, de- serve to go down in history yoked together as the two highest priced cattle ever brought to any market! The Navajo war is another illustration of how great a fire a little matter kindleth. A negro boy insulted an Indian, and in the quarrel that ensued the Indian sent an arrow through the neo^ro and killed him. He then fled to his tribe. The officer at the fort where it happened sent a demand for the surrender of the Indian; the tribe refused to give him up; without delay the troops were marched out and war began. Result: the United States troops beaten in three campaigns at a cost to the govern- ment of nearly twenty millions of dollars. Surely, " a great cry for a little wool! " Another of the most important Indian wars had its origin in a comparatively insignificant matter. A contractor for furnishing Indian supplies sent to the Sioux agencies what purported to be prime mess pork, but what was found to consist princi- pally of the heads of hogs. The Indians evidently did not think the advice about not looking a gift horse in the mouth applied to gift hogs; and so, 16 REMINISCENCES. when it came to choosing between a constant diet of head-ehcese and souse, and a fight, they gave their voice for war! As this war occurred during the progress of the civil conflict hut little attention was given to it by the public, but it required fifteen thousand troops under Generals Sibley and Sully, and several millions of government money to adjust the diflerence between that rascally contractor and the nation's wards. There is a record of engagements with hostile In- dians within the military division of the Missouri from 1868 to 1882, in which it is stated that " more than 1,000 officers and soldiers were killed and wounded" in the Indian fighting of that period. In answer to a resolution of inquiry of the Senate in 1886, the Secretary of War stated that the total cost of the troops in the Indian country from 1876 to 1886 had been $2.'>3,891,261.50. The Sioux war of 1876 cost for actual field expenses $2,312,531, besides the inestimable loss of Geneial Custer and his men. If the question is asked, what has been gained by all this expenditure of blood and treasure ? it is not diflicult to answer. The Revolutionary war established the indepen- dence of the Colonies, and laid the foundation of the Republic. The war of IS 12, practically settled the question of the rights of American vessels on the high seas; and of naturalized citizens aboard such vessels; though, strangely enough, the matter of greatest contention during the war, was overlooked OUR INDIAN POLICY. 17 in the treaty that followed. The Mexican war re- sulted in the acquisition of much valuable territory, by which the United States has been greatly en- riched, and Mexico made but little poorer. Lack- ing the ability and the enterprise to develop her territory its possession or loss could not materially affect her resources. The Civil war led to the immediate emancipation of the slaves; and demonstrated the abiUty of the Nation to protect itself from dismemberment, at the caprice of one or more of the constitutent members of the Union. Whatever opinion may be held hereafter as to the right of secession the practic- ability of it is not likely to be tried again while the record of that terrible failure remains, as a part of the history of this republic. The Indian wars have been the least satisfactory of all. They have settled nothing except it be the fact that our Indian policy has been a practical failure from tne beginning. We have neither civil- ized them nor exterminated them. After more than 250 years of alternate fighting and pampering, we have succeeded in inducing only one-fourth of the present generation of them to put on citizens' clothes, and still a smaller number to prefer a dwelling house to a wigwam. As, according to the report of the Commisioner of Indian Affairs for 1890, the births among them exceed the deaths by about 500; and, as Indians never emigrate, except to the "Happy Hunting Grounds," it is evident 18 REMINISCENCES. that W€ shall have the Indian problem on our hands for some time to come. If some means could be found to civilize and christianize these " Children of the forest" and thus put an end to undignified and profitless wars on account of individual squabbles, or spoiled bacon, this government might begin on a permanent era of domestic peace; ditlcrcnces that may arise between this and other nations would be easily adjusted l)y a court of arbitration, and war become a thing of the past; only a crimson stain on the page of our nation's history. Is death more cruel from a private ilagger Than in the field from murdering swords of thousands? Or does the number slain make slaughter glorious? — Gibber (XX.) CHAPTER II. THE CIVIL "VVAK. Life in this world is a continuous warfare; be it individual or national. So intense at times is the conflict, as to provoke the question of life's value, and we are led to doubt whether the gift is worth having; to those who have no higher conception of life's possibilities than simply to exist, the question may be answered in the negative. But to him who thinks of life in the flesh as the reproduction of the Christ-life, with all its possibilities, life is the great- est gift of God. So it is to him who thinks of na- tional life as ordained of God, with a view to man's highest development and richest culture. Our fathers looked upon the establishment of this nation as the opening of a "new world," wherein all men might worship God as their consciences bade them do, and hither they came by hundreds and thousands. " What sought they, thus, afar? Bright jewels of the mine? The wealth of seas, the spoils of war? They c-ought a faith's pure shrine. (21) 22 REMINISCENCES. Aye, call it holy ground, The soil where first they trod; They left unstained what there they found. Freedom to worship God." To such patriots as the Adamses, Hancock, Henry, Jefferson, Franklin, Hamilton and Wash- ington the sacred interests were committed, and can you wonder at the result achieved? Born of such a spirit, rocked and nurtured by such hands, the national life and character Averc assured; but two things, wars and victories, were inevitable. Our fathers had a record back of them to preserve, and a continent before them to conquer, subdue, civilize and Christianize. And when the smoke of the Revolutionary fires had ascended, and the wounds of the strife were healed, the spirit remained to extend the conquest from sea to sea until the entire continent should be made "the land of the free and the home of the brave." Suceeding wars had spread abroad their devasta- tions, and buried their innumerable victims, until most men felt that all the great problems of this country were settled. But there still remained a cancer in the bosom of the body politic. The malig- nant growth had poisoned the entire South with its virus and now threatened extension into the terri- tories. During the administration of James Bu- chanan, the fifteenth president of the United States, the advocates of slavery attempted to establish that relic of barbarism in Kansas. Societies were organ- ized known as "Blue Lodges," " Friends' Societies," ENCROACHMENTS OF SLAVERY. 23 "Social Bands," and "Sons of the South," for the purpose of overriding the will of the citizens of that territory, and establishing slavery there. Hon. A. H. Reeder, the governor, was removed, and Wilson Shannon appointed in his stead, because the former opposed and the latter favored the project. This transferred the conflict to Washington, and it soon became national. In 1857 the Dred Scott decision, involving the question whether Congress had the power to exclude Shivery from the territories, was decided by the Supreme Court, adversely to the interests of free- dom. The opinion of the court was written by Chief Justice Taney, in which he declared that the negroes were so far inferior to the whites that they had no rights which a white man was bound to re- spect. He held further, that the Missouri Com- j)romisc and other laws of Congress inhibiting slavery in the territories were unconstitutional. Subsequent decisions by the same court, of questions arising under the Fugitive Shive law, were equally favorable to the pretentions of th'e slave power, so that the arrogant boast of Senator Toombs that he would one day call the roll o-f his slaves at the foot of Bunker Hill Monument seemed not unlikely to be realized. The frequent capture of fugitives from bondage, and their return to unrequited and hope- less servitude; the merciless traffic in human beings inseparable from such an institution; and, perhaps more than all else, the constant encroachments of 24 REMINISCENCES. the slave power upon the Icgisliitive freedom of the country, and the absolute suppression of the free expression of opinion adverse to slavery, in any of the Southern States, precipitated the conflict that in any event was inevitable. The conscience of the North, East and West, was thoroughly aroused, and a fire was kindled such as the waters of the oceans could not put out. And thus the nation was plunged into war without knowing what it meant or where it would end. The North, at least, was altogether unprepared for such a conflict. Indeed, there were but few who had any knowl- edge of mililary life. Our army and navy were so i-'./iall as to leave our harI)ors and borders open to the coming of any foe. For instance, Charleston harbor had only sixty-nine men in all her forts. On that memorable morning, when Major Anderson had gathered all into Fort Sumter, and numbered his forces at prayer and flag-raising, there stood in that citadel one hundred and nine men, sixty-nine of whom were enlisted as soldiers; when at prayer the major himself held the halyards, and as soon as the amen was uttered he hoisted the stars and stripes amid shouts and cheers from hearts of devoted pa- triots. This great and magnificent harbor was thus exposed to the enemies of the government; and yet, 1 thmk it was better armed even then than any other harbor in the nation. Men had no adequate conception of the danger. Think of the first call of Mr. Lincoln for troops, FORT SUMTER. '25 and his conception of the problem in hand — seventy- five thousand men for three months! With these Mr, Lincohi and his advisers thought to solve the problem, and put down a rebellion that before it ended, called to arms more than two million six hundred thousand men, and occasioned more than a thousand battles and skirmishes, in which more than two hundred and fifty thousand men were slain, or died of disease. The most terrible slaughter of men ever known took place during tlie late conflict. We read of Waterloo as the bh^ody ]>attle of history, and yet Wellington's casualties were less than twelve per cent., his losses being five thousand four hundred and thirty-five killed, and nine thousand five hun- dred and eighty wounded; while Grant's loss at Shiloh was about thirty per cent. In all the wars this nation had with other nations, she lost only ten American Generals, while in the civil war one hundred general officers fell in battle. When will the nations of the earth come to see that wars can never be justified only as you would justify a desperate case of surgery. "If thy right cyo offend thee, pluck it out and cast it from thee; and if thy right hand oH'end thee, cut it off and cast it from thee; for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. " When the nations of the earth come to feel the force of this truth, they will cease educating their children 26 REMINISCENCES. for the array, as thoui^h war were a part of the busi- ness of the world. Then will leaders and comman- ders and statesmen cease to plunge the nations into unnecessary and unrighteous wars. It is often within the power of these men to in- volve millions of people in a war for years under some plausible pretext, that appeals to the patri- otism of the people, who suftcr others to think for them. Shall we have two standards of morals, one social and the other political? Shall one man l)e justified in slaying a hundred thousand men in order that he may maintain his position in office, or gratify his personal ambition, while we hang another man for the murder of one fellow-creature? Nay! let there be one standard, then shall it be impossible for prime ministers and other representatives to make their private quarrels the occasion for general blood-shed and strife. Let leaders of men study the consequence of wars more carefully. The discipline necessary to suc- cessful conflict is unfavorable to the independence and intellectual growth of the individual and conse- quently to tlie true greatness of a republic. The economy of war requires of every soldier implicit submission to his superiors in office. This must be enforced in every grade of the army; and while it is without doubt essential to success in hostile oper- ations, it is adverse to intellectual and moral excel- lence; for the moment a man surrenders thus, he is forbidden to reason. He is to obey without judge- A GREAT CONFLICT. 27 ment or volition of his own. I have seen — yes, on one occasion I was forced to draw up ray company in line Avith others for the enemy to shoot at, for thirty minutes, while the oiEcers in command were too drunk to know or do anything intelligently. Now there was no help for that, but to shoot the men in command, but had any man of the regiment yielded to the excusable temptation he would have been held for murder. This is one of the evils of war. There are other evils of which I shall have occa- sion to si)eak from time to time. Nevertheless, the boys in blue have reason to rejoice and give thanks for the privilege of eradicating from this beloved land the curse of slavery; and of settling forever the question of liberty, equal rights and national unity. They went to war, not to learn the art of fighting, but to put doAvn the rebellion and preserve national unity. And it were better that five hundred thous- and, yes, a million men should die; than that this nation, the hope of untold millions yet to be, should perish from the earth. SENTINEL. ENLISTING. I have loved my country under the flag of the Union for more than fifty years, and as long as God permits me to live, I will defend that flag with my sword, even if my own state assail it. — Lieutenant General Winfield Scott. (XXX.) CHAPTER III. ENLISTING AND GOING TO THE FRONT. The war cloud had spread over the national heav- ens and burst u[)()U Fort Sumter. Major Anderson, brave man, had yielded to the inevitable, and the stars and bars were floating in Charleston harbor. Mr. Lincoln had called for the first seventy-five thousand, and they had tested tlie temper of the enemy only to find that it was not a question of little moment to I>e settled l)y a few skirmishes be- tween two detachments, but a question of life and death to the nation, with millions of brave men })itted against other millions who had been their brothers. Great men had taken sides. The talent, skill, nerve, patriotism and devotion of a great na- tion were divided. Devout and pure hearts called nnto God from both armies, while volumes of in- spiration poured into the camps from Christian homes, north and south. I remember the prayer of a poor colored man in North Carolina who, wishing to please his master, who was listening, prayed, "O Lord! bless Massa Lee, and help him to kill Massa Grant, and stop dis awful wah." His friend in another part of the hut could not sanction that, and hence responded, "Bless (31) 32 REMINISCENCES. dc Lawd da's mo' an fo' million prayers ahead o' dat one dats got to be answered fust." But in all this God was not confused. He kne.v what surgery was necessary to eliminate from this republic the curse of human slavery, and Mr,, Lincoln had been placed at the head of the nation to carry out his purpose. Many thought him slow, but now that the smoke has disappeared and the entire field is before us, all candid men say, "Mr. Lincoln moved as fast as the people would have supported him." It was not an easy thing to arouse and lift the north out of the pursuits of peace into those of carnage and strife. A London reporter writing from New York City two weeks before the firing on Fort Sumter, said: "This city is full of divine calm and human phlegm, and Chicago, the commercial queen of the west, would do anything rather than fight." But before that letter came back to us, things were changed. The war was fully inaugu- rated, Generals George B. McClellan and John Pope had met the armies of the south, to be defeated, and the terrible havoc of Bull Run had fully aroused the north. A friend from the Emerald Isle gave a concise report of that battle in these words. When asked if ho was in the battle of Ball Run, he said he was. " And did you run?" "Faith, I did, and any man that didn't is there yet." It served its purpose. All lovers of libertj- felt that they were called to arras. Men cast, north and west hastened to the recruiting TITE COUNTRY AROUSED. 33 oflSces to put their names down for enlistment. The spirit of the hour cannot bo better expressed than by quoting the lyric of Horatio Woodman: Why flashed that flag on Monday morn Across the startled sky? Why leaped the blood to every cheek, The tears to every eye? The hero in our four months' woe, The sj^mbol of our might. Together sunk for one brief hour, To rise forever bright. The mind of Cromwell claimed his own, The blood of Naseby streamed Through hearts unconscious of the fire. Till that torn banner gleamed. The seeds of Milton's lofty thoughts. All hopeless of the spring. Broke forth in joy, as through them glowed The life great poets Bing. Old Greece was young, and Homer true, And Dante's burning page Flamed in the red along our flag, And kindled holy rage. God's gospel cheered the sacred cause In stern, prophetic strain, Which makes his right our covenant, His psalms our deep refrain. Oh, sad for him whose light went out Before his glory came. Who could not live to to feel his kin To every noble name! And sadder still to miss the joy That twenty millions knew In human nature's holiday From all that makes life low 34 REMINISCENCES. "What ou^ht we todof filled all hearts, and, with this question in mind, we left home one morn- ing and went to the village to see who were going. Wc had read of MeClellan's failures during the spring of 1S62, and the coming of Pope from the western army to take charge of the Army of Vir- ginia, scattered and disheartened, yet true in their loyalty to their old commander, George B. Mc- Clellan. Wc had no sympathy with the criticism of his predecessor pronounced by Gen. P()})e in his speech upon assuming command, for in that he an- tagonized the whole army, and we rejoiced when he was relieved and McClellan was again placed in command of the Armies of Virginia and the Po- tomac. ' 'But what shall we do ? Ah, there they go, John Robertson, Robert Jenkins and Sam Brown." "What ! have you enlisted, Brown?" "No, they won't take me; but I want to go. Botii the Towle twins have enlisted, and Jim and Bob are going. 1 suppose you can't go, for your wife and baby won't let you ?" "Well, I don't know; I guess it would be i)retty hard to leave them. But what's the ncsvs !" "Oh, things look pretty blue, I reckon Lee '11 get into Washington." "Why, look here, Brown, 'twould be an awful thing to have Washington captured, and Old Abe taken prisoner; I believe FU go. What say?" "But how will Mrs. B. take it?" LEAVING HOME. 35 "Well, she said this morning that if she were a man she'd go. Now I don't propose to have her feel that she is more patriotic than I am. Hello! there goes Leavett; they say he's to be captain." "Yes, captain of Company E., Sixteenth regi- ment, Maine Volunteers." "But say, he can't command anybody, why he doesn't weigh more than a hundred and thirty pounds! " "You just wait till he gets into a fight, he'll weigh a ton then! " " Well, look here, if you and Bob are going I'll go," and down went our names for three years, or during the war. Then came the hardest thing to do of all; simply to tell the wife and baby what I had done. What will they say — how will they take it? But to my surprise my wife said "You have done just what I should do if I were in your place." The plans of that night will never be made known. We were to leave for Augusta the next day. All night that home was filled with prayer, and oh, how quickly the morning came! Can it he that we are to leave these dear ones for war, where men are wounded, killed and buried, unattended and unvis- ited? "Yes, Will, you must go, and may God bless and keep us till you return." The train is now ready, and I see the dear ones standing on tLe plat- form and waving their handkerchiefs as we move out from the village. Ah, how hard men tried to 36 REMINISCENCES. be brave that day! But tears started dov;n many a cheek, and hushed Avere the voices of all save those who had nerved themselves for the occasion with stimulants, for we were off for the war. Then from each Mack, accursed mouth The cannon thundered in the South, And with the sound The carols drowned Of peace on earth, good-will to men! It was as if an earthquake rent The hearthstones of a continent. And made forlorn The households born Of peace on earth, good-will to men! —Longfellow. '\XXVITI.) CHAPTER IV. FROM AUGUSTA, MAINE, TO WASHINGTON, D. C. On reaching Augusta, our company was assigned quarters in the regimental barracks, and then came the work of clothing, organizing, and equipping the regiment. "What a change of life and environ ments had come to us! Roll-call at 6:00 A. m., when every man was expected to answer to his name or be accounted for by some of the company officers. This surrender of choice was not an easy thing for the strong, manly lumbermen of the Pine Tree State to learn. They had been in the habit of getting up when they pleased and appearing in such clothes as they thought appropriate and timely; now to be compelled to toe the mark in army blue, with but- tons brushed, hair combed, and boots bhicked, was all new to them, hence some very severe discipline was necessary before we left the state, and we found the little man in his uniform quite weighty enough. But the most of Company E. fell into line cheerfully, believing it the best policy to adopt. Contrary to the old maxim, that "ignorance and discipline make the best soldiers," it was found that the young men from the schools and the wisest men (39) 40 REMINISCENCES. of the state were the most efficient in the service, for they saw at a ghmce the necessity of rigidly en- forcing the discipline, and intelligently yielded to the order of the day. More than this, they sought to know what was to be required of them, and, by this, anticipated the command, so that in the aver- age company there were fifty men competent to take command at a moment's warning. This may ac- count for the skill and tact displayed later when emergencies arose, officers were captured or killed, and some men of the rank and file sprang to the front, took command and won the battle. I rejoice to see the cfibrt now being made to im- prove the personnel of our standing army. The de- mand is urgent that some standard other than phys- ical be established which shall govern the enlistment of men, and then something must be done to coun- teract the pernicious influence of the barracks. As it now is, a vile, blatant blasphemer may contami- nate a whole company of innocent boys, who, being compelled to room with him, are constantly under his influence. But look! Here comes the adjutant with orders, "Fall in, Company E! Attention! Let every man be ready to take the cars this evening at 7:00 o'clock for Washington! " Seven-eighths of these men had never been outside of the limits of their native state; to them it was an opportunity, but to some of us it was a trying ordeal. Here come wife, sister, child, yes, and mother too, as sure as you Yv^-tl Mother's ALL ABOARD. 41 here; never so far from home before, but she can't endure the thought of John's goino; to war until she has first counselled and given him some expression of her love. See, she has brought her boy some socks, handkerchiefs and — "What's this, mother?" " Ah, my boy, mother wants you to read that book, I have marked some verses for you, John. Don't forget that I shall pray for you every evening. Good-bye. God bless you." "Fall in. Company E! Fall in! Fall in! Call the roll! Get into line for inspection!" The col- onel is coming. See him, a fine-looking man, weighing two hundred and sixty pounds? Cross- eyed. You can't tell whom he's looking at. He looks like Ben Butler. I believe it is Ben Butler. No. ''^Attention! Present, arms! Carry, arms! Count ofi"! Right, face! Forward, March! Now we're off to war! The train was never so long get- ting ready to start before. Will they never get done saymg "good-bye?" "All aboard!" And she rolls out into the night. We are soon asleep. Morning dawns and we enter Boston — ' ' the hub of this universe. " In her streets there are many things that attract the country boy's attention, but ho is a soldier and must keep step. " Left! Left! Left! Steady there, Company E!" "What regiment is this? " shouted a dozen voices from the sidewalk. "Sixteenth Maine Volunteers, Col. Miles' Regi- ment." " What men! " " See, they are all six feet high; lumbermen from the woods and mills of 42 REMINISCENCES. Maine!" "Prohibitionists, I guess; they arc all sober. Finest regiment 1 have seen yet." Thus we were greeted in every city until we reached Wash- ington, where we were inspected and sent to Fort Sumner to drill for heavy artillery. At first this was not well received by the boys. They had taken a great deal of pride in being noted fov their size and good appearance, but when told that that was the secret of their being chosen they submitted cheerfully and went to work to learn the drill. Sunday came. At home, we were in the habit of going to church and Sunday-school. How strangely all this drum-])cating, buo-le-blowina^ and marchnii; to and from dress parade affect one! A pass is se- cured, and we walk over the long bridge to see Washmgton, but it was not the Washington of to- day. Every group wo met was full of excitement over the last battles and the defeats of McClellan and Pope. Regiments of soldiers fill the squares. Squadrons of cavalry dash through the streets. Aml)ulances and baggage-wagons were rushing through the city half-filled with rubbish. We re- turned with confused thought, for we had never seen it on this wise before. Truly wo were home- sick that night, and would have walked ten miles to bear one prayer such as we had been wont to hear in the school house at home. But we were hundreds of miles from home, in the midst of profanity, tobacco smoke and song-smgirig. The last thing that greeted our cars as we fell asleep WHO GOES THERE? 43 from sheer cxlumstion was, "Stop your noise, "Cut the string," "Dry up," each associated with a terri- ble oath. Here Ave stayed doing service in the fort until the night of the 8th of September, when we were ordered to report to Col. Adrian li. Root, commanding the First Brigade, 2n(l division, 1st Corps of the Army of the Potomac. We waited all night with our arms buckled about us, and wondered what the next call would be. Some declared that Lee had captured McClellan and was marching into Washington, and, sure enough, about midnight the long roll was beat and we stood in dread suspense for hours, not knowing what was to be our doom, while the older regiments laughed and cracked their jokes at our inexperience. Then came a detail and we were sent to the l^'ort to see if anything new had taken place, and, while passing the 143rd New York volunteers just out from home about 11:00 o'clock, a voice rang out in the darkness, " who goes there? " "A friend with the countersign." "Advance, and give the countersign." We obeyed, and being re- ceived on the point of the bayonet, were told that the countersign was not correct. " Corporal of the guard," shouted the alarmed patrol. Down came the corporal and sergeant, and we were taken prison- ers, disarmed, and marched to headquarters. The colonel appears, to confess that he had given a local countersign, and ordered that our arms be returned and we be sent on our way. We shall face Antietam next. MCCLELLAN. ANriETAIVl. Victors and vanquished join promiscuous cries, Triumphant shouts and dying groans arise. — Pope's Homer. (xr,vi.) CHAPTER V. ANTIETAM. Ou the morning of September ITtli, 1862, Gen. Hooker opened fire on the rij^ht, and from artillery and musketry, hurled shot and shell into the ranks of the enemy, Fitz John Porter's corps was ordered to occupy the center position under protection of a ridge of land, as reserves, while the slaughter went on. No army ever went into battle with more brilliant expectations than did the Confederates under Law- ton and Jackson, who were fresh from the victory of Harper's Ferry, McClellan, on the other hand, appeared cautious, if not fearful, and, as usual was late. Robert E, Lee, the most brilliant of southern leaders, was on hand with not less than 100,000 men; his left wing was in command of Jackson, his right in command of Longstrcet, while Hill com- manded the center. But Hooker made a good fight, and carried the bridge on the Hagertown road the first day, and was ready for another assault at any moment. It is strange hoAV quickly an army, cut in pieces and torn by shot and shell, can rally. But there are no vacancies in action. The officer next in rank steps at once into the place made vacant by (47) 48 REMINISCENCES. the fall of his superior. A friend of mine gave me a description of Hooker's second charge, when, amid bursting shells, grape and canister, those living lines marched steadily on until melted away by the fire of their opponents. For one hour this fight con tinned before the Confederates broke. Then a cheer filled the "whole army "with hope at this point. Our regiment, having been called out the day before, reached the scene and was held in reserve, and wo can never tell what chagrin and disappointment came to us when the order was given, "Rest on your arms, and be ready to move at a moment's notice." Col. Wiles, having made a forced march from Arlington Heights, was unable to go further, and so we were detailed to fix up a bed in a deserted brick house that had been riddled with shot and shell. lie never appeared with us again, but Lieut- Col. C. W. Tilton (brave man he) took command. We watched the fight, heard the groans, and saw the mangled, until a strange feeling filled our inmost soul, and for once we longed to have a hand in the light. There was Joe Hooker on his gray horse, })lunging into the thickest of the fight, inspiring his men with his coolness and cheer. There was Meade, dashing through the cornfield, slippery with blood, while the tree" over our heads seemed to scream Avith tongues of fire. What a reception! Men reeled and staggered as if drunk. Brigades ])ecamc regi- ments in an hour, and soon Meade\s noble army Avas but a fragment, but Joe Hooker came to his rescue, ANTIETAM. 49 leading the charge in person. And now his whole command is moving, swinging into line at every change. The hills are one flame of fire and seem to shake in fear and agony. "What will be the re- sult? " we asked. For fom' hours we stood in dread. "Look! Hooker is wounded! They arc carry- ing him off the field.'' But Sumner sweeps on, and the men seem enraged at the thought of their woun- ded commander. They waver and fall back for a few rods, then halt. Will the enemy follow? The artillery forbids, and just at this critical point a fine brigade of Maine and Vermont men pass us and hasten into the field. " Why not our brigade? " Ave asked. Ah! we have never had one hour's drill, while Smith's brigade was in excellent condition, and in a few minutes they dash in and retake the cornfield. Burnside still holds the hill near Stone Bridge where Lee has marshalled his best men. But another effort (m the part of the enemy is made to retake the works and gain the bridge. Nothing in the history of war ever surpassed that struggle. In an hour five hundred shells fall into the closely packed division, while forty thousand muskets pour their leadlike rain into the assaulting column. Now it is a hand-to-hand struggle with the advantage going to the enemy, but, when the smoke rises, we find Burnside still holds the hill, and the enemy is retreating. The loss of the day has been great. Burnside's men are exhausted, nevertheless be sends word to McClellan for reinforcements, say- 50 REMINISCENCES. ing, "Send them, and I will sweep all before me." Fifteen thousand men held in reserve, sent at that moment, might have forced Hill and Longstreet to fall back upon their center, and give lis the fords of the Potomac. Then the whole confederate army would have been between Burnside and Sumner, and Antietam would have ended the war. But Mc- Clellan hesitates, loses his opportunity, Lee retreats, recrosses the Potomac, and is at home again. The next day after the battle we walked over the field to look upon the dead forms, lying in their blood, and wondered at the spirit which had sus- tained them in such a conflict. What was it? These men were thoughtful men. They were not ignor- ant brutes, who, without the sense of fear had rushed half intoxicated into the mouth of belching cannon. Nay! They w^ere sober, intelligent 3'oung men, the majority of them under twenty-five years of age. They knew that it meant death, and, trembling, looked each other in the face, as if to say, "I would rather die than disgrace the famil}^ I represent or be counted a traitor." So like brave, intelligent men, they deliberately made up their minds to do their duty and die in their tracks if need be. After this came five weeks of inactivity, when more men were sick, discouraged, disheartened and disgusted than in any battle of the war. We were unused to that climate, had thrown away our blankets, over- coats and tents, and had nothmg to do but to dis- cuss the merits and weaknesses of our "generals and AFTER THE BATTLE. 51 other field officers, and General George B. Mc- Clellan came in for the largest share of criticism. The influence of those five weeks no one can meas- ure. Spent in perpetrating jokes, reciting stories, singing songs, finding fault in general, at length growling became the chief business of the camp. Chaplains seemed to lose all the confidence and re- spect they ever had; but for the mail that brought tidings from home, I don't know what would have become of us. There is nothing so demoralizing to the soldier as inactivity. Sickness, discouragement, discontent, and about every ill that either flesh or spirit is heir to will invade the camp; and nowhere can you find a better exemplification of the proverb: — " Satan finds some mischief still, for idle hands to do" — than among idle soldiers. But something must be done to keep the boys from (lying of listlessness, or getting too lazy to draw their breath. We determined to have a horse race. The arrangements were strictl}'' private — that is, the officers were not in the secret — though all the men were. A couple of half grown contrabands were induced to act as jockeys, and we decided that Captain Howe's and Lieutenant Parkman's war horses needed exercise; however, it was not thought necessary to consult those officers with regard to the matter. The track extended from camp about 400 yards down to the shore of the bay, where it ab- ruptly ended. This fact was probably not duly 52 REMINISCENCES, considered by George Washington and Caesar Augustus, the jockeys. Every man in the camp that was able even to crawl had stationed himself somewhere along the track, most of them of course as near the termmus as possible. Wash was mounted on the Captain's charger, without a saddle, but by way of compensation with a big pair of spurs on his prominent heels, Gus was likewise splendidly mounted, but provided with a rawhide instead of spurs. The importance of the issue was seriously impressed on their minds and their am- bition to win duly stimulated by the promise of fabulous rewards, if successful; besides, each, sepa- rately, was given to understand that the owner of the horse he rode would feel everlastingly dishon- ored if he was beaten in the race. True, the cap- tain and the lieutenant both happened to be awa>' from camp that day, but they would be sure to hear of the result, and it would not do to let them be disgraced ! At length everything is ready, the horses are on their mettle, so are the riders. The word "Go" is given and they are off, Caesar Augustus plies the whip and is soon in the lead, George Washington makes a good second as they fly down the track, and the men yell — how they do yell; the whooping of a whole tribe of Comanche Indians, with the howling of a pack of wolves thrown in, would be oppressive silence compared with that yell! The horses are excited — frightened — by the infernal HOKSE RACING. 53 noise, but the effect on each is different. The Jieu- tcnant's horse, already in the lead, under the stimu- lus of the whip and the noise, seems to redouble his speed, and when he reaches the end of the course he cannot turn if he would, but leaping boldly out from the shore he appears for an instant like a flying cen- taur in mid-air, then plunges downward and is lost to sight beneath the waves! He soon comes to the surface, however, and in due time both horse and rider safely reach the shore. Quite different is the experience of the name-sake of the "Father of his Country." Startled by the unearthly yelling, and maddened by the goading of the spurs, his horse in- stead of increasing his speed, began to kick and plunge, and finally breaking through the ranks of men along the side of the coarse, went tearing and kicking, and rearing before and behind in a wonder- ful manner. The little contraband, looking like a monkey on a bucking circus pony, had no control of the horse, but only aggravated the case by press- ing the spurs deeper in his flanks, in his cflbrt to stick on! The matter began to grow serious, but after an hour's effort on the part of the whole camp the horse was caught and relieved of his l)adly frightened but plucky rider. Greatly to the chagrin of Caesar Augustus, the race was decided a draw, and all bets declared off! " Ise mighty shuah dat 1 won dat race,-' said he, "kase I done got dar fust, fo' de Lawd!" but the judges were inexorable and he had to be content. 54 REMINISCENCES. When the owners of the horses found out what liberties had been taken with their propei'ty some- body seemed to be a most ehgible candidate for the guard house, for a while; but finally the necessity of some relief to the monotony of camp life was tacitly admitted, and no serious notice was taken of the aflair. On the 26th of October we were greeted with an order from Gen. McClellan to cross the Potomac, and, while we were none of us anxious for another fight, some preferred a battle to the inactivity we had at Harper's Ferry, and we had waited so long for McClellan to do something, that when on the 8th of November, Burnside succeeded him, and began to reorganize the army, we rejoiced and took heart. Our regiment was brigaded with the Olth, 104th and 105th New York and the 107th Pennsylvania volunteers, and was assigned to the first brigade of the 2nd division of the first corps, commanded by Gen. J. F. Reynolds. FALLING OUT OF THE RANKS. I suffer with no vain pretence Of triumph over flesh and sense, Yet trust the grievous Providence. — Whim (LVt.) CHAPTER VI. FALLING OUT OF THE RANKS. Harper's Ferry was too much for many who could have endured the march or the battle. I soon found that the seed of disease had been sown in my sys- tem, and that I could not stand the march, so I se- cured permission to fall out of the ranks and walked along from the Potomac to Warrenton, getting in every night, save one, before the regiment left in the morning. That night I was too sick, and so slept in a smoke-house on some rubbish that had been stored for the winter. Here I met a typical white man of the poor class who told me, among other things, that if I would walk "two child's cries, two go-bys, and a dog's bark, I would come to Jones' farm, where I could get a heap of milk, for he kept a right smart of cows." Well, I made the run, got the milk, and overtook the regiment at Warren- ton. There I was sent into a church to help care for some others who were worse ofi" than I was. On the following day an order was received to take the sick to Washington. Box cars were provided, and the boys walked to the depot and entered the cars until all were filled. How we pitied the poor fellows (57) 58 REMINISCENCES. who could not go! Some of them died from sheer disappointment. Ordered to enter a ^iven car it was locked, not to Ijc opened for the trip. In our car were dying men who prayed, others, in their de- lirium, cried and swore, while others amused them- selves with books and cards. On reaching Washington the dead were removed first, then the sick, and then we who could walk were turned into the streets to be fed with sand- wiches and cofice by the christian ladies of that city. I can never forget that meal, for I expected to re- turn with the train and perhaps never have another mviA like that, but, to my surprise, I was ordered to the hospital and given a bed; a bed with white sheets and a pillow. About eleven o'clock a light awoke me and there stood the post physician with his aids, who said, "young man, you must return to your regiment in the morning." I thanked him and was asleep in two minutes. Morning came, and I was up and ready to join the squad that had been ordered out, but there came that awful physician again, who said, "You can't go, fori see what I did not see last night. You will never see another tight. " "Is it possible?" I had never been in a fight, nor seen but one. Nevertheless, his w^ord was law, and, after a severe test, I was given a discharge which said, "heart disease;" ordered out into the streets of Washington penniless and alone, I walked slowly down the street, to be arrested again and again, l)ut on showing my papers was allowed to pass with a MUSTERED OUT. 59 sneer, "Yes, you have played it well. They want you down at Fredericksburg about this time." But I was out, and my thoughts were now on home and what the friends would say, and what I should do should the physician's verdict prove true. All day I sat in the stores waiting for a settlement in order that I might get my money. Night came, the stores were closed ; hungry, cold, homeless and friendless, I walked the streets of the nation's capital, through which I had passed four months before a proud Mainiac ! Late in the night I found a lodging-place, where, after showing my papei's and promising most faithfully to pay the bill on the morrow, I succeeded in getting abed in a bunk, (already occupied by legions). Morning came none too soon, and being weak, I was late in getting into line before the pay- master's office, and so was obliged to stand in line until ten minutes of six o'clock in the evening, almost the last man to be paid, but when it came I had a good supper which I might have had the night before had I known of the good people in Washmgton at that time. Turning homeward, the train made very poor time. It was the longest journey of my life. New York had no attractions. Why should we be de- layed there ? Boston was not worth seeing. New- port, Mame, was the largest place in this world at that time, and the last forty miles from Portland to Newport was a most tedious journey Weak and sick as I was, I jumped from the train, ran across GO REMINISCENCES. the fields and entered the little wood-colored house before anyone knew I was in town. But the getting home did not make mo happy. For any number of days disappointment and unrest filled my heart and increased until August 17th, 1863, when I oficrcd to enlist again, and, to my surprise, passed the exam- ination, was enrolled as a soldier in company D., first regiment of cavalry of D. C, and was mustered October 17th as first duty-sergeant. We were told that this regiment was never to leave the District of Columbia, and hence great care was taken to select men of good height, sober habits and manly appear- ance. Indeed, every man walked with a pi'incely air and looked down with pity on the ordinary sol- dier, for we were to be equipped with Henry's re- peating carbine, which the skilled soldier could load and fire sixteen times per minute until the cylinder got too hot for use. Poor, deluded men, to think of staying in Washington with such arms ! Never- theless it helped us over the ordeal of leaving home for the second time, and made our wives and chil- dren, sweethearts, sisters and mothers feel that there was not much danger in our case. But no regiment ever suffered more in any year of the war than did the D. C. cavalry in ISGi. We crossed the James ISIay 7th, twelve hundred strong, and in October the same year we were consolidated with the first Maine cavalry, and only seventy-six of the twelve hundred answered to the roll-call. Poor fellows ! Thirteen of my company starved to death in Libby prison. FIRST D. C. CAVALRY. Soldier, rest! thy warfare o'er, Sleep the sleep that knows not breaking; Dream of battle fields no more, Days of danger, nights of waking. —Scott. ' T XTT ) CHAPTER VII. THE FIRST DISTRICT OF COLUM15IA CAVALRY. This regiment was unique in more ways tlaan one, Col. L. C. Baker, provost-marshal of the war de- partment, raised the first battallion in the District of Columbia, and they were set apart for service in connection with his work, but in 1S63 it was deemed wise to increase the number and org-anizc a res^i- ment, and eight hundred men were enlisted in the state of Maine for that purpose. Captain J. W. Cloudman enlisted the lirst hundred and forty men, and they were mustered into service October 19th, and left for Washington on October 22nd. Captain Cloudman was a good man, but utterly devoid of military genius or tact. He knew how to pursuade men to enlist, but never learned to give a command intelligently. This was a source of great mortifi- cation and sometimes led to shameful debates. He sought to make all his men comfortable and had no pets. One morning while in Augusta, Maine, after roll-call, he said, "Sergeant Bolton will lead us in prayer this morning." Frightened and confused, I had no time to explain or offer excuse, so 1 stepped to the front and poured my cry into the ear of Him (63) G4 KEBIINISCENCES. who carcth for all men. Some criticised the captain for taking such lil)crty, and it was not military, for I had enlisted to light, not to pray. Others sneered and a few spoke kindly of the matter. This led to an invitation to dine with the landlord of the Mam- mon house before leaving for Washington, an event often rt f erred to during the years of service. But the call to prayer did more, for, never during the years did temptation arise, but with the suggestion came the thought "These men have heard you pray; they look to you as a man of God," and, when the boys sought from time to time to play some game or trick the sergeant's feelings were consulted. No company of men could have done more for the com- fort tuid pleasure of a man than company D. did for its orderly-sergeant. Friend! are you a Christian? Have 3'ou taken Jesus as your Saviour? Let all who know you understand that 3()U want them to be acquainted Avith your position. It will give } ou a hold on the divine arm, for he hath said, " He that confesseth me before men, him will I confess before my Father and his holy angels." The journey to Washington had lost its romance, for we had come to think of Avar as a terrible calam- ity, and to fear the result of the civil conflict. On reaching the city we were inspected by Col. Baker, Lieut-Col. Conger and Major Baker. The cohmePs duty kept him busy most of the time at the Avar de- partment, leaving Lieut-Col. Conger in command, A HARD STRUGGLE. 65 ■who was military in every movement, severe, and sometimes cruel. Four of the companies bad been in Washington for a long time, and many of the men became very hard to control. They soon began their tricks, and sought to put the new comers in false and trying positions before the officers. The feeling found an issue one morning between Jack of the old battalion and Sergeant B, of company D. late from Maine. Jack came into camp about day- break full of poor rum, and began his tricks and slurs on tho Maine boys. Captain Curtis, after- wards major, was officer of the day, and Sergeant B. officer of the guard. '' Arrest that man, and put him in the guard house," said the captain. That was enough. Not knowing just how to perform that duty, 1 at once "matted onto" him, and soon found that 1 had en- countered a giant, and felt like the man who tackled a bear and Avanted two men to help him let go. But I was in for it. To fail meant loss of stripes, and worse, to submit to the taunts, sneers and tricks of the whole battallion, so for nearly thirty minutes it was a "rough and tumble " fight. At length 1 conquered, and held him in the door until Captam Sphere came to my aid and together wo thrust him into the guard house; then when tho wounds were dressed, and new clothes furnished, I went back to put Jack astride a wooden horse for six hours. Poor Jack never again attempted to provoke a quarrel or refused to obey the Maine boys when on 66 REMINISCENCES. duty. Later came six hundred and forty men from Manic, and Cloudman and Curtis w(U-o [)r()motcd as majors. Then the boys of the Pine Tree State were in the lead. Capt. Howe, a Baptist minister, vv'as assigned to our company, and Lieutenants Parkinan and Dun- ning. Capt. Howe was a nervy, sharp, military man, who very soon gave the men to feel the need of hcing thoroughly drilled, and when the time came he led bravely into battle, until taken prisoner at Sycamore Church, Sept. lOth, 1804. There he stayed eight weeks; then, after the consolidation with the first Maine cavalry, he commanded com- pany D, until March 31st, '05, when he was severely wounded, but recovered and was mustered out of service with the regiment, and now lives in Lewis- ton, Maine, a successful physician. Lieut. Park- man was a very different kind of a man. Every- body loved and trusted him. He Avas a good dis- plinarian, uncompromising, yet gentle and mild, of fine form and rode a tall black horse. No braver, more accomplished officer or truer man ever gave his life to our country, but alas! on the IGth of June, 1801, while leading the company in an attack on Petersburg, he ws shot through the body and died the next day. I was Avith him and tried to comfort and aid him that fatal night, but he said, "Sergeant, my time has come; my woi'k is done, and I die without a regret other than this: I woukl like to go with you till the war is over; but God knows best." Mm: ii?|ifimiz:____ ^■immmip' ■ , , :,,,gMmMiuju . ■ use '^MMmm CAPITOL. The flags of war like storm birds fly, The charging trumpets blow. — Wldttier ( L.XVIII,) CHAPTER VIII. THE WINTER OF 1863 AND '64 WITH CO. D. On our arrival in Washington we were given quarters at Camp Baker, a short distance east of Capitol Hill. Tlicre wo settled down, as we sup- posed, for the winter ; but not so. We were too well armed for any such luxury. After a few days of drill with our horses, an order came from Lieut. Howe to take Co. D. and report at Anundale, ten miles west of Alexandria. There we had mounted drill until the 27th of January. Then we joined the old battalion at Yorktown, and on the 28th were moved near the York river, where flowers were in bloom and the air balmy, though we were in mid- winter. This to a citizen of Maine seemed hardly credible, for some of us had been wont to see the earth covered with snow from November until May. Here amid the flowers we received our mail from home, an event of great moment to the soldier. The letters brought an inspiration that shortened faces, cheered hearts and filled them with iiope. Could the dear ones at liome who were under constant anx- iety have known what comfort those home messages brought to the Doys at the front, no mother, sister, 70 REMINISCENCES. wife, or sweetheart would ever have allowed aii}^- thing to interfere with her letter writing. But hark ! It is daybreak, and we hear the call of ''Boots and Saddles !" Thirty minutes and we aro off for our first raid. Ten days of work and light- ing in a strange land, brought us up the Chicka- hominy within ten miles of the rebel capital, where we seized and destroyed a very important junction and large supplies that were en route for Lee's army. Among other things found in this little city of one store, two houses, a tavern and blacksmith shop, was a cellar full of applejack, ""a drink very refresh- ing, but very dangerous to the soldier, especially while within the enemy's lines. Many of the men became so thoroughly intoxicated as to prevent their moving, and four miles out from the station we were obliged to leave some of them to their fate. Poor boys ! They were as brave as any that were enlistf^d in their country's cause, but they were hungry and tired, and so they drank the deadly drink in the face of death, and were never heard from again. When will this awful curse cease to dethrone the reason, mar the intellect, corrupt the body, and degrade the spirit ? When will men learn that wine is a mocker, that though fair to look on, at the last it "Biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder ?" We reached our lines in season to join the ex pedition for Newport News, where we embarked for Norfolk. It was a beautiful eveningon the 20tli of January, but before morning a light snow storm IN THE DOCK. 71 had made everything slippery, and we cautioned the boys in getting off the boat not to be in haste or im- patient, for the horses were nervous and fractious. But we had one man in Co. D. who was a kind-heart- ed fellow but never could learn anything. Should he see these lines I know he will forgive the refer- once to him, for he must recall the hours spent la trying to teach him how to fasten the saddle, and the time when on mounted charge we found him under his horse, with both feet fast in the stirrups, and his head all bruised and bleeding with clips from the feet of his horse. Well, on this occasion was there, and we told him how to stand and what to do, but unfortunately the horse, as he stepped off the plank, stepped on 's foot. A quick yank at the curb-l)it threw horse, saddle, carbine, blanket, overcoat and haversack into the dock. It seemed a pity almost that the man did not go with his prop- erty. No one asked whose horse it was in the dock, struggling to extricate himself from the side- wheel; every one knew as a matter of course. But what will the horse do ? He is gone, and it seemed minutes before any sound revealed his whereabouts. But he had started to swim across the bay ; two men in a boat soon overtook and led him ashore. This poor man was always so heavily loaded as to make it impossible for him to do anything but care for his equipage. In this respect he was not unlike many whom we have known in the church and elsewhere who so burden themselves with the implements and 72 REMINISCENCES. machinery of their profession as to have no strength left for the performance of its duties. ''Circmnlo- cution offices" in which an applicant is entangled in government red tape like an unfoi'timate fly in a spider's web, and charity organizations whose would-be beneficiaries starve to death while their cases are undergoing the process of investigation, are further examples of like character. During the months of our raiding the other six companies were enlisted and drilled, and on the 29th of April we were organized as a full regiment, bri- gaded with the Eleventh Pennsylvania, Col. Shere's command, and Gen. Kautz commanding the brigade. Gen. Kautz was a German by birth, but educated at West Point, and spent his life in the services of his adopted country. We soon came to love him and our confidence was never shaken for a moment. He was brevetted major-general in 1865 for gallant and meritorious service, and chosen as one of the commission before whom the assassins of President Abraham Lincoln were tried. KAUTZ'S RAID. And there was mounting in hot haste. — Byron. (lxxiv.) CHAPTER IX. GEN. KAUTZ'S RAID. On the 5th day of May, 1864, wc marched with a divisioQ of cavahy into Dixie for the purpose of weakening the enemy by destroying pubHc property, arresting the attention of Lee''s forces, and compell- ing him to send detachments from his main army to protect the property and guard the raih'oad over which his supplies passed. We passed through Suf- folk; crossed the Black water, and, on the afternoon of the 7th, Ave reached the Weldon railroad about two o'clock, having marched seventy miles. Here we encountered some cavalry en-route for Peters- bur^^. A brisk fight followed, but the sixteen- shooters were too much for the Confederates, sixty of whom became our prisoners, and told us that they had never before encountered anything like the swiftness of bullets from so small a force. It seemed to them that bullets came in among them l)y the basketful. Said a rebel lieutenant, "Do you fellows load over night and fire all day? " The rail- road was soon cut and public buildings burned. Strict orders were given not to damage personal property or molest the citizens, but to destroy every- (75) 76 REMINISCENCES. thing of use to the confederate army. But the boys thought it a perfectly legitimate transaction to swap horses whenever they found any that looked oi moved better than their own; often unharneiising from the private carriage before the door of some mansion, the family horse, saddling him and riding off; leaving in exchange some old stack of bones that had been disabled by the long march or want of care, for some of the boys had never had any ex- perience in caring for horses before entering the army. Turning southward with one hundred and sixty prisoners, we marched straight for the point where the Weldon railroad crossed the Nottaway river. A huge bridge, well guarded by confederates, con- fronted us, for the astonishment at our audacity at entering Dixie no longer paralyzed the people. A short but terrible fight followed, resulting in the loss of Lieut. Jackson and some five men on our part, the taking of forty more prisoners, and the burning of the bridge. We then hastened on to City Point, and encamped for one day near Gen. Ben Butler's headquarters, crossing the Appomatox on the 10th. Thus in five days we made a tour of two hundred miles, fought two battles, destroyed miles of railroad, and burned millions of valuable property for the confederate forces. Gen. Kautz had gained the confidence of every man, and showed the authorities that a small force could materially weaken the main army by cutting A SUCCESSFUL RAID, '??" off supplies and destroying the means of transporta- tion. This was not a pleasing thought for the boys, for we knew that it meant raids in and through the rebel district, and we were tired, alarmed and home- sick, but strange as it may appear to those who have never bad any experience in war, twenty- four hours had not passed before we were ready for another raid. One thing may help to solve the problem. We were boys. Young men recuperate quickly and are restless. Three day's rations were served, and we stole through the lines again, full of hope and zeal because of our great success on the first raid. This emboldened us. This raid proved the most effective of the war. We left Butler ready for a fight with Beauregard, who, as it proved, was strengthening his forces, and Grant was watching Lee, and getting ready for the awful Wilderness fight. But we were off for Dixie. Hastening through Chesterfield county, stopping at the county seat just long enough to open the jail and set at liberty two of our men therein imprisoned, we pressed on to Coolficld Sta- tion, on the Danville railroad, thirteen miles east of Richmond, reaching the village about eleven o'clock in the evening. The citizens fled like wild men, alarmed and astonished at the presence of Yanks in such a locality. As we contemplate it from this distance, we wonder at such an undertaking. Think of a little handful of men on the Danville railroad, thirteen miles from Richmond on the direct route 78 REMINISCENCES. to Petersburg in the midst of the niglit. But what we do must be done quickly, or Lee will send a force out to capture us. Guards thrown out cast, west, north and south, telegraph wires all cut, and public property on fire, we set about to tear up the railroads, and then in the light of burning build- ings, the value of which no one can tell, we hasten away without the loss of man or l)east. On the 12th, the same thing was successfully performed at Black and White Stations on the South-Side rail- road, thirty miles west from Petersburg, and forty from Coolfield Station. Rails were torn up, heated and twisted around trees, wires torn down and wound around fences; corn, flour, tobacco and salt burned in great quantities; then on to the Weldon railroad where like mischief was done. We then started for Bellcficld, but when within two or three miles we found that the enemy was out in large force to capture the regiment of sixteen-shootcrs, and, our object being to weaken Lee's forces more by destroying supplies than by fighting, we turned to the left and hastened to Garrett station on the Nottaway river, where we found, to our horror, the bridge had been cut away and the fords were strong ly guarded. We were in a trap, but Maine boys were not to be captured that way, so we took to the woods, felled the trees, dragged them to the banks, and, in the night, constructed a bridge across the river, and before morning wc were miles from our foe. DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY. 79 We reached City Point on the 19th and went into camp on the 20th, having marched or worked twenty hours out of every twenty-four for nine days. Horses and men were thoroughly exhausted, after having cut the Richmond and Danville and South- Side railroad in six different places and done much to weaken the army of the enemy. It may seem almost incredible, but we were so hungry that the corn captured for our horses was eaten by us with an occasional hoe cake, as a sweet repast for six days out of the nine. Oh, how sweet was rest the night of the twentieth ! On the ground we spread our rubber blankets and with boots for pillows and horses tied to our wrists, Ave said our evening prayer and knew not where we were until the sun shone in our upturned faces and paid, "It isda3^" Neither man nor beast heeded the bugle for roll-call that morning. WILSON'S RAID. Above the maddening cry for blood, Above the wild war drumming, Let Freedom's voice be heard, with good The evil overcoming. — Whittier. ( LXXXII.) CHAPTER X. Wilson's raids. We were in camp at City Point only for a few hours rest, to exchange horses, and draw rations and ammunition, for there was a general movement all along the line before Petersburg. So on the 22nd of June a division of eight thousand men under Gens. Wilson and Kautz struck the Weldon rail- road at Ream's station, ten miles from Petersburg and within seven miles of Birney and Smith's armies, where they were contending for a position on the same road. Wilson pushed on down the South Side road for ten miles, destroying all before him. Here they met Pitzhugh Lee's army, and, after a brisk fight, conquered, and then pushed on to join us at Burksville Junction. From thence we pushed down the Danville railroad, destroying it until we came within eighteen miles of Roanoke Bridge, which we found guarded by a large force of militia gathered up in that part of Virginia and the nearest counties of North Carolina. We had accomplished much for which we started, and felt like hastening back, for all about us seemed alive with graybacks. The waste on the railroad had been so thorough, (83) 84 REMINISCENCES. and the demands for transportation were so great, that Gen. Lee found it expedient to call off all his scouters and at once repair the damage. He had only ten days' rations for his army and was in a campaign for months. What should he do 'i The price of corn and wheat went up until they were obliged to pay $40 per bushel for wheat and $20 for corn, and the harvesters were busy trying to keep their army from starvation. Gen. Lee, in his letter, said, "The enemy have done us immeasurable harm by their attacks on the railroads," and he added, "But it cost them dearly ;" and so it did. Besides those left dead and wounded on the fields, we lost 1,000 men, ]3 pieces of artillery, and 30 wagons and ambulances. At Stony Creek we met a heavy force, and, after a hard-fought battle, had to retreat. Here Lieut. James Maguirc was badly wounded, and Major Baker asked us to procure a bed on which he might be carried into camp should we succeed in reaching our lines, for it began to look as if we had undertaken too much ; but, seeing in the distance a fine mansion, wc de'ailcd four men and bounded away to learn that it was the home of Major-Gen. , of the confederate army. On entering the house we were apprised of sickness in the spacious dwelling. We found dogs and servants too numer- ous to mention in the lower flat, but a soldier will never take "no" for an answer when his comrade needs help, so we found the richest hod we ever saw, in the room off the front parlor, and, seizing it nmid STONY CREEK. 85 the barking of dogs and the threateuings of servants, we hastened to make the faithful comrade as com- fortable as possible. But, alas ! the ride was too much and he passed to his reward during the night, from a tine bed in a donkey cart. Morning greeted us with wild screams from our colored friends, who had forsaken all to follow us mto our lines. They knew that there was trouble ahead for the colored people, and having anticipated our coming, were out to meet us. We can never forget the night of the 2Sth, nor the morning of the 29th. Long before light men and women rushed mto our presence crying as if their hearts would break, "You's all dead; you's all dead; Massa Hill IS dar with heaps of guns; you'sdcad ! You's dead, sho." What should we do? We had expected to find this point in the hands of union forces, but alas! before nme o'clock we found ourselves surrounded by HilTs division. I was detailed that morning to take the advance with twenty men, and, on nearing the swamp just east of the station, a poor old black woman called, "Massa, don' go down dar, for Massa Hill is dar waiting for ye;" but go we must, and did, to be greeted with grape and canister. I was dismounted and many of the boys were torn to pieces. Back to the on-coming army I hastened to report, and soon was in the midst cf a heavy con- flict. Twenty-eight hundred "contrabands" were huddled together in the shade of the woods near the line of battle. Into them the enemy turned their 86 EEMIKISCENCES. shells, and for a little while we found relief. Then came a mounted charge of our division. Dismount- ed and alone with ex Gov. Davis, of Maine, we clung to the earth as on came the contending armies. To rise was death. To lie still was to have the horses of the 11th Pennsylvania go over us. We decided to let the horses go, and, turning toward them, while bullets flew thick and fast, we forgot that fact while watching the charge. Nothmg in our experience ever surpassed it as a picture. Those horses — we seem to see them now — coming with strained nostrils, leaping and foaming, while the riders stood in the stirrups, with saber gleaming in the sunlight, and all screaming at the top of their voices. On! on! they come. A leap and we are safe. Not a hoof has touched us. Bat look! The infantry has formed a hollow square, and our horses are reeling and falling, while none of our men can reach the foe with saber. Back they come! The fight is over and the army is scattered. Gen. Wil- son destroys his wagons and caissons, then in a round-about way brings in the scattered men of his command. Gen. Kautz calls his men together, re- cites the real condition, and then said: "Boys, if you will follow me I will take you in." We were only too glad to folloAV him, for we knew he was our friend. We reached our old camp inside the Union forces at Jones' Landing the next day. A sadder sight we never beheld than our boys pre- sented the morninsf we entered the Union lines at A CAVALRY CHARGE. 87 Lighthouse Pomt, July 2nd. Not one in fifty had a cap, Avith clothes torn and horses ready to fall with sheer exhaustion. One poor fellow presented him- self on the morning of the 3rd for inspection with- out shoes or hat and with pants badly torn. "What," said the flippant inspector who had never smelled powder in his life, "have you no shoes or hat?" "No, sir, not this side of Ohio." Here we tarried twenty days to recuperate and readjust our equipage after sixty days continuous marching and fighting during the Kautz and Wilson raids. PATROL. AFTER THE RAIDS. A while ■within their tents they rest, And fill the passing hour with song and jest. — Unknown. (xc.) CHAPTER XI. AFTER THE RAIDS. We "were put into the cavalry cori)s under the dashinar and brilliant Phil. Sheridan. We had never seen him and hence were curious to know how he looked. So on the 27th our corps and the second corps of infantry were ordered to take the north side of the James in order to draw from the enemy in front of Petersburg, where an attack had been or- dered in connection with the mine explosion. The head of the army arrived on the west side of the Appomattox about nine in the evening and we joined them about three the next morning. All day the army was crossing on pontoon bridges, and we had a good chance to see the man, for the whole day was spent in crossing the river. "Where is Sheridan?" was the inquiry from hundreds. "There he is. See him!" "What, that short, sa wed-off fellow sitting on the rear pommel of his saddle?" "That's the man, the famous hero of Shenandoah valley." "He don't look like a great man; he is too nervous; (91) 92 REMINISCENCES. why don't he sit still or dismount and rest till the army gets over the river." No, he never was still for a moment. He impressed us as a man who was in the army for business. "He will reign, no matter what it cost." "That man must rise, for like the architect of Florence, he superintends every detail and acknowledges no ob- stacle as insurmountable." To say he is Ijruvc has become insipid. To say he is reckless is false. He IS not blind to difficulties nor indiiFerent to compli- ments. He knows where he is and what the dangers are and he meets them with an unconquerable will. He dashes into the fight with a lover's inspiration, and all his boys follow him. Not a man questioned his decision or ability to do anything he undertook, though the circumstances might appear most for- bidding, for we remember his swift reverse of a confederate victory; how he met his defeated boys rushing madly before a victorious foe and turned that living stream back upon the enemy, and re- deemed the day by his indomitable will; how quick- ly his keen eye took in the situation, and his proud spirit leaped into the arena for a race to victory. "Yes, that is the man!" "We will follow him wheresoever he goes, for he seems to possess all the necessary elements for success." His success as a leader of scouts has no parallel in military history. He often entered the lines of the confederates, dressed in then- uniform, and gave orders as coming from some general who was supposed to have the PHIL. SHERIDAN. 93 authority, much to the confusion of the army. On one occasion Lee's supply train was fightini^ its way through a wood, beating the poor mules and push- ing them on as fast as possible, for Lee's army was sorely pressed and nearly out of ammunition and all out of rations. Riding up to the man in charge he said: "Gen. presents his compliments and orders you to post your train in the field yonder," and then rode swiftly away. The order was obeyed, and when the last wagon was in position, a yell, a dash from Sheridan's corps and the confederates were ours with all their supplies. You certainly would have thought ten thousand Comanche Indians had broken loose could you have heard that yell. On another oc- casion one of his trained men rode up to a briga- dier-general, who, at the head of his brigade, was giving directions for a retreat, and saluting him, said: "Gen commands you to take your men out into yonder field and rest for a little." "What field?" Pointing out to the west he said, "Follow me for a feAV rods and I will show you, sir." Leaving his body-guard the general followed only to find himself a prisoner as he turned around the trees; and such a look of disgust Avas on his face when he en- tered our lines as no words can describe, and no lapse of time can obliterate from our memory. The sue- 94 REMINISCENCES. cess of these men made them reckless. The clay before Lee surrendered, one of the boldest rode up to a general and ordered him to move his troops. "What staff are you on?" was the quick reply. "Gen. 's," answered the unabashed scout. "That's too thin, sir, for I am Gen. , and you were never on my stafl. " The poor fellow had made a mistake such as would have cost him his life, only that the surrender was too near at hand. Having watched this great man all da}^, we went into camp with our confidence established, and after a quarter of a century, we still believe there was no general in the union army that could inspire his men with greater enthusiasm than could Major-General Phil. Sheridan. ARTILLERY DUEL. Cannon to right of them, Cannon to left of them, Cannon in front of them, Volleyed and thundered. — Tennyson. ixcvi.) CHAPTER XII. AN ARTILLERY DUEL. Soldiers often find themselves in trying and dan- gerous positions, positions into which no money could tempt them to enter, but if there is anj'^ one place more to be dreaded than all others in active service, it is between armies during an artillery duel. On the 18th of August, 18G4, a movement was made to capture the Weldon railroad in Virginia. We were successful not only in taking, but in hold- ing it, for seven days of constant fighting. On the 22nd our regiment met Hampton's legion, and it was " Greek meeting Greek." Only that our men were better equipped, we should never have fought another battle, but the foe could not face our six- teen-shooters. They were obliged to fall back and leave their dead and wounded on the field. We lost many of our best men during these days, among Avhom I recall a sergeant of company A, a brave, true soldier, and at one time a lieutenant-colonel of the second Maine infantry. It became my priv- ilege to take his remains to the rear, where I found men more excited and crazed than in any part of the field. Running about wounded and frantic, they were firing promiscuously at friend or foe. (07) 98 REMINISCENCES. On the 25th the decisive battle was fought, and when the day was far spent, indications told of a flank movement on the part of the enemy. Some- body must meet and checkmate that movement. Who could do it? Not a breastwork in that direc- tion, and few tools with which to construct one. But it became our lot to undertake the work. Dis- mounted, our horses sent to the rear, wearied, and faint-hearted, we rushed in. Trees, logs and stumps came piling in without machines, oxen or horses. In a short time we had built a temporary breast- work and covered it with earth, behind which we lay waiting for the anticipjited movement. While in this condition the duel commenced. Every shell went through our fortifications as lightning through a pine bush. Shot, shell and clubs flew all about us. The heavens were black with missiles of death, but the men stood their ground. For two mortal hours these great mortars poured their shell through our helpless ranks. We were saved only by cling- ing to the earth, and rolling into furrows made by passing shells. To stand up was exposure not only to the shell but sharpshooters peering out of trees over the way. Every heart was sick, every ear was open, for the firing meant more to a soldier than simply an artillery duel. When the way was made clear, a charge was sure to follow. Look! There comes a general and his stafi"! Boys! Something is to happen here. Steady! They're coming! At this we could see the enemy in strong ARTILLERY DUEL. 99 line of battle advancing through the woods. Noting the position of our regiment, they raised a yell and rushed into the charge. But they paid dearly for their folly. Major Baker commanding our regi- ment, said, "Boys, wait! Be calm; don't fire," and like the men who followed Putnam in the cele- brated battle of Bunker Hill, we waited until we could see the "white of the eye, then fired, and the first volley told the story. Many ti poor fellow drew a short breath, never to breathe again. Another and another volley followed in quick succession, until the enemy was swept from our front. But alas! we must leave our victory, for our army is ex- liausted, and the enemy are at home. The artillery is hushed. The rattle of infantry passes away with the smoke, and we hasten amid the groans of the wounded and the prayers of the faithful chaplains, to the woods where our horses are. Entering the forest, a tempest such as Virginia's climate and a great battle can get up, greeted us before we reached our horses, and so terrible was the storm that man and beast stood awed before Him who ruleth the elements. Ah! what a day and night that was! As we tramped the woods and wrung the water from our clothes that night we asked, "Can men forget this, or ever again be gay and frivolous? " Where are our brave boys? Where are our tired companions? How can we make known the results of this day to the faithful mothers, wives and sisters of our fallen comrades? But when the mormng 100 REMINISCENCES. comes with its sunshine and demands, the sighs and tears of yesterday will be gone forever; and so we liasten to unpack our haversacks and canteens for an evening meal. I recall one scene, where a farmer of some notor- iety gave vent to his feelings towards Abraham Lincoln and his supporters. Our lieutenant m command of the squad waited until the old man stopped to take breath, then said, "My friend, we have concluded to tax all luxuries, and as this tirade seems to be a luxury to you, we Avill take a few pounds of that fresh butter the servants are puttuig away.'' 'Che butter came, and was occasion for another outburst, and the lieutenant said, "Yes, and for that we will take six of the best ham.s in your smokehouse and a bag of flour." Sambo showed his teeth, made an island of his head, sur- rounded by mouth, and brought out the hams and flour. At this the old man dropped his cigar, straightened himself for another storm, but the lieu- tenant said, "Bring here those two beeves, and if you utter another word against our government or its president, we will take you along with us into camp." We left him a sadder and wiser man, and hastened to enjoy one of the best suppers ever given to mortals. One liour after the feast we were sleeping as sweetly as though we had never seen a battle or lost a friend. Lay him low, lay him low, In the clover or the snow; What cares he, he cannot know, Lay him low. — Qeo. Henry Baker. (CII.) CHAPTER XIII. SYCAJVIORE CHURCH AND COX's MILLS. On the 3d of August we went into camp at Syc- amore Church to do picket duty along the Weldon raih'oad. The line extended from the left of the line of fortifications in an easterly direction through Prince George's Court House, Lee's Mills, Syca- more Church and Cox's Mills. Here we seemed to be favored, and set about making ourselves as com- fortable as possible. Our supplies w^ere not large, nor our tools extensive, but with such as we had the boys set to work constructing houses and getting in supplies for the winter, and soon had some of the most cosy huts ever seen; beds with pillows that surpassed the downy pilloM's of home life, lawns, flower beds, gardens, hotels, storehouses and camps that would make the men of the wild west long to emigrate. Mails from home brought boxes of sup- plies that made the autumn paradisic in every sense. But this was not to last. One day some gentle- men came to see our quarters and admire our unique city. Oh, how very friendly and eager to minister to our comfort they were! Invitations to visit their homes outside the lines, with assurances of protec- (103) 104 REMINISCENCES. tion, were profusely given. But we did not go. They were spies, and soon returned to say to Gen. Hill, "The Yanks have 2,500 head of cattle with other supplies, and have less than seven hundred men guarding them. Major Baker is in command at Sycamore Church with six companies. Gen. Kautz is near at hand with his brigade at headquar- ters, while Capt. Howe with four companies is at Cox's Mills." Before the morning light appeared a move was on foot to capture the supplies, for the confederates needed food about this time. Our picket was driven in a!)out five o'clock, and we rushed from our little liouses into the works, then upon the brow of the hill. Twice we repulsed them, but soon found they were too many for our force. Capt. Howe said, "Sergeant, mount company D. and fall back to Sycamore Church, and I will hold back the foe as best I can." We obeyed, not knowing what had taken place at the church. We ordered Sergeant Hamilton to report to the major our coming, but he dashed into camp to find himself in the hands of the enemy. We pushed on, when a man in one of our uniforms ordered a halt and commanded that the sergeant advance. Supposing it to be our man I obeyed, and with revolver in face was told to come. Not a gun had been fired as yet at the recep- tion given, for the enemy were waiting for all to A NARROW ESCAPE, 105 get into the trap set for us. But 1 saw what had taken place, at a ghmce. Turning on my horse, I reported to Capt. Howe who had come up on the left. He surrendered all, while I refused, and dash- ing from the line, hastened to the woods. One hundred men fired but hit neither me nor the horse. Leaping into a ditch over the bank, my horse stuck in the mud. With carbine in hand I rushed on and made the woods, bringing five men with me. Poor Ned (my horse) struggled to extricate himself, and soon overtook his master. Faithful beast! Will there bo animals in heaven? I should like to see him once more. He was such a friend to his master! " But were you not terribly frightened? " No, I was not afraid; nor did I question the result. A man is said to be immortal until his work is done, and the night before, I had been made to feel that God had yet a special work for me to do. Leaving the house I shared with Hamilton, Greeley, Clark, Dolorinc amd Smiley, all of whom were captured in this attack, I spent the night in prayer until twelve, then after the second relief was sta- tioned and all was found well, 1 called upon my chums and preached my first sermon to a most appreciative audience, some of whom I have never seen since, but hope to meet "in the morning." I knew that God would prove a way of escape or permit mo to tell the story of his love in prison, either of which would be a joy. So fear took its flisfht and I went on. lOG REMINISCENCES. For five hours I wandered in the woods before I could get my bearings, but then in the distance 1 saw the flag and hastened to report. The detach- ment jM'oved to be what was left of Major Baker's command at Sycamore Church — Capt. Sphear and twenty men. Evening came, and wo were ordered to return and bury our dead. No fire or light was allowed, so we went six in number to bury the boys wo had seen in the morning happy and hopeful, now dead. What a night! Corporal Davis, since governor of the state of Maine, too sick to carry his carl)inc, searching in vain for a brother who had shared his youthful bed, a mother's love and the counsel of a godly father, whose ministry was greatly appreciated in my native home. At midnight we sat down, dusted the haversacks, ate the dry beef, and Avcjit alone amid the pines, for oiu- comrades were dead, or worse, en-route for Libby prison. Thirteen of them starved to death in that den. I am sure that I shall confer a favor on my read- ers by introducing here an interesting account of the capture and journey to Libby Prison of the late Chaplain Louis N. Beaudry, Chaplain Beaudry will be remembered by all who were his compan- ions in that castle of misery and starvation — in no- toriety of infamy, second only to Anderson ville itself — for ho contributed as much as anyone there to the alleviation of the horrors of the place, by his cheerful spirit, his unfailing kindness to others, and his almost unlimited resources of entertainment, by ALONE IN THP: WOODS. 107 poetry, eloquence and song. Chaplain McCabe, who was there, declares that he was the most useful man in Libby Prison. The following is his account of how he came to be an inmate of the place: REV. L. N. BEAUDRY, OFF TO PRISON. No more will booming cannon, Nor blast of bugle call, Arouse to scenes of battle, Nor break this last recall. Ready for any summons. From earth or from above, His arms were gladly grounded At the command of love. Thus from the noise of battle, Thus from the field of strife, He marched to peace eternal, To the endless life. —D. R. Lowell, D. D. (ex.) CHAFrER XIV. MY CAPTURE AND JOURNEY TO LIBBY PRISON. By the late Rev. Louis N. Bkauduy. Gettysburg! What memories the word awak- ens! Three clays of bloody work, and then rebel desperation and folly rise to flood-tide. At this point Pickett's Virginia division rushes out u[)on its grand charge, and is annihilated! The earth trem- l)les, the an' shakes and is darkened, while nearly 400 pieces of artillery belch forth fire and death. The battle is distinctly heard for twenty-live miles away in every direction. It is probably the most fearful cannonade ever heard on earth. Scarcely had the echoes of the last gun reverber- ated among the liills of the Keystone state, when General Meade, commanding the victorious army of the North, ascertained ])y his scouts and other- Avisc that the enemy was already retreating toward his own i)hice. Accordingly General Kilpatrick, at the head of the third division of cavalry, was ordered on a wide detour through Emmetsburg around the rebel right, for the purpose of intercepting their retreating trains m the defiles of the mountams. During the night of Saturday, the Fourth of July, (111)" 1 1 2 REMINISCENCES. in the midst of a drenching rain, the Yanlvec ''boys " fell upon EwclFs train at the Monterey pass. The blending of thunder with roaring of cannon and bursting of shells, the flashes of lightning from the clouds mingled with the fire of our own pieces, and these followed with impenetrable darkness, pro- duced a scene of the wildest grandeur. About 250 wagons, laden with property stolen from the stores and granaries of Pennsylvania, and 1,500 prisoners fell into our hands. It was diiring the latter part of the night that at least fifty of us were surrounded by a superior force of rebel cavalry. It is hard enough for a Yankee, and harder still, I think, for a Yankee Frenchman, to say to an enemy, "I surrender." This, how- ever, had to be done. A rebel had hastened to take posession of my horse. I had a splendid charger, the pride of my heart and a favorite with the regiment. I expostulated as best I knew how. "Young man, I am a chaplain, and that horse is mine and not the government's; will you not respect my private property':!" He answered me only with a hateful sneer. The officer in command soon made his appearance. To him I made my appeal. To ni}' surprise he turned to the horse-thief and said: "Let that horse alone, sir." Then, turning to mc, he pleasantly added: "Take your own horse, chaplain, saddle and mount him, and when you reach Gen. Stuart's headquarters you shall be released," Bowing him my thanks — A WEAKY MAFCII. 113 and it may be easily inferred how polite a French- man could be under such circumstances — and, re- assured by his promise, I gathered up my "traps," and was soon riding among the ' ' Johnnies. " About noon of that eventful day we reached the anticipated headquarters (in the saddle, of course), near a village called Mechanicsville, Md. On arriving near General Stuart, according to stipulations made me at the time of my capture, I was immediately released— of my horse, and of al' hopes of liberty. A personal interview with tht general, liefore whom 1 laid all ray rights and com- plaints, availed me nothing but renewed aggrava- tions. "With my hand upon the shoulder of hi;? horse, I looked up into Stuart's bright blue eye!> and clearly saAV his mental agitation. When ho learned that I belonged to Kilpatrick's troopers, he nervously inquired: " Where is Kilpatrick?" " I don't know, sir." " How many men has Kilpatrick? "" My answer made him none the wiser. He wore his notable slouched hat, adorned with a black plume. Ho carried an ivory-handled bowie-knife, fastened by a gold chain to his belt. Our interview was brief, and away he rode toward the head of his column. The griefs of that Sabbath day's journey can never be recounted. Lugging my equipage, I was compelled to walk through deep mud and through swollen and unbridged brooks, paddling 114 REMINISCENCES. along with my great cavalry boots. All this while a rebel provost-marshal (Lieutenant Ball) rode my beautiful horse. Up and down the lines he passed with a frequency that seemed intent on mocking my sorrows. On one occasion, as he passed me, he informed me that my horse was worth to him $500. That was exasperating. Our captors paid no attention whatever to our physical wants. No rations were issued to us dur- ing the whole day. We would all have fainted, as many did, had not the Union ladies along our route come to our relief. Tliey brought us bread, cakes, cold meats, etc. , pressing through the guards who, at times threatened to bayonet them, while, with tears at our sorrows and prayers for our safety, they bade us god-speed. Lasting honors be to those generous, heroic souls! Near midnight we arrived at Leightersburg, in the valley of the Potomac. Footsore and weary we were driven into a damp, grassy field, where we lay down and slept. The next day Kilpatrick and Stuart had a sharp encounter in Hagerstown. Marched and counter- marched most of the day; about sundown Ave were driven into a field, where we supposed W'e might spend the night. Darkness had come, and we had fallen asleep on the sward. Suddenly I heard the call: " Chaplain, Fifth New York cavalry." Spring- ing to my feet, I saw a rel)cl lieutenant standing near me with whom I had had some conversation during the day. He held in one hand a piece of AN ACT OF KINDNES. 115 warm bread, and in the other a cup of smoking hot cofiee. In an undertone he said: " ChapUiin, I thought you might be hungry, and I've brought you this for your supper." I was well nigh over- whelmed at the unexpected act of kindness. Truly this was a noble fellow, worthy of a better cause. Glad am I to signalize nobility of character where- ever 1 tind it. We reached and crossed the Potomac at Will. iamsport. The rebel army was in a deplorable con- dition. There was no douljt in the minds of prison, ers that if General Meade had followed up his Get- tysburg victory he would have bagged the majority of the rebel forces. All their hopes in making this invasion had been blasted. Their ammunition was nearly exhausted; they were all dispirited, and many of them demoralized. The feeling of their rank and file was graphically expressed by one of the officers of the guard. On reaching the sacred soil of Virginia he flung his saber to the ground, ex- claiming with much emotion: " Lie there! and Til never cross the river again on an expedition of this kind, God helping me! " A change of guards was here made, when a strik- ing episode occurred. By the outgoing commander many of us were introduced to the provost-marshal of the incoming force. As my turn came I was presented as " Chaplain Bcaudry." "To what denomination do you belong? " inquired the talkative official. 116 REMINISCENCES. "I am a Methodist minister,'" I replied. "So am I," smilingly added my interlocutor. "I am sorry to find you where you are, brother," I quickly chimed in. "Ditto, ditto," replied the Rev. Mr. Linthicum of the Baltimore conference, into whose hands 1 was prisoner and guest. This serio-comic interview and passage at w^ords served mo a good purpose. He treated mo with peculiar deference. One day he urged me to mount his horse, and I rode some dis- tance. The pleasure of recalling the incident is quite as great as was the relief of the occasion. On Friday, July 10, we all suflfered terribly from the excessive heat. We were marching up the beautiful Shenandoah valley, or Valley of Viiginia. On our left was the Blue Ridge, and on our right the North or Shenandoah mountains. Scarcely a breath of air stirred the foliage. The sun poured his hot rays directly upon us. Weakened by hun- ger, for we were poorly rationed, we were an easy prey to fatigue. Many, even of the guard, gave out completely. If infantrymen, accustomed to that climate and to the hardships of the march, failed it may be seen how much cavalrymen sulTered. Before night both my feet were terribly w^oundcd with blisters under each heel, like the two sections of a halved hen's egg. 1 had perspired so much, and was so exhausted, that cold flashes from my hips shot up my back, indicating that I was in a most critical condition. That night we bivouacked COOKING UNDER DIFTICULTIES, 117 at the Washington springs, near Winchester, where we rested until the next Sunday afternoon. It was well for me, for I was hors d'^etat for the journey. Blisters broken under my heels, blood and water filling my stockings, limbs stifiened with the over- exertions of the march, reaction from over-heated blood, courage in my mental thermometer down to zero, 1 was never in my life so nearly unmanned. An antidote came on Saturday afternoon. Wo heard, through rebel sources, of the fall of Vicks- burg. Had it not been for rebel bayonets all around us Ave would have cheered lustily. As it was, like our Quaker friends, we endured our joy quietly. " Vicksburg! Gettysburg! Gettysburg! Vicks- burg! " passed and repassed from lip to lip, like a draught of sweet nectar to the Union prisoners, but like vinegar and gall to our enemies. Some may be curious to know what was allowed as for rations on our journey. Let mo tell them. Bacon was the principle staple, bacon often rusty and sometimes very lively. Had I laitl on the ground, live stock downwards, the piece given mo on one occasion, I am sure it would have tried to walk away. With a stick or a knife we removed the objectionable parasites and made the best use we could of the rest. To this was added a little salt and a handful of flour. It required some inge- nuity to prepare these rations for food. This, in brief, is the plan: Throw a rubber poncho over two sticks about a foot apart, make a dishing place by 118 KEMINISCENCES. pressing down the poncho between the sticks; this is the bowl or tray. Pour in Hour, salt, and water; stir the mixture with finger, stick, or spoon. Mean- while a comrade has made a fire; another has found a smooth stone and thrown it into the fire. When the stone is hot draw it out; spank your. dough on the stone and turn it up to the fire. The hot stone cooks one side, the fire the other. But, oh, what bread! Good for solid shot, or for paving material. But Yankee stomachs must convert it into food. Be thankful if you only have enough. Devouring hunger never stops for quality. Two hundred miles of travel bring us at length to Staunton, Va., a lovely town nestling among the hills. Here we strike the Virginia Central railway. On the morning of the 18th of July we take cars for the rebel capital. A sorry lot of Yankee sol- diers arc we. I must state that about 4,000 Union soldiers were captured in the campaign of Gettysburg. Of these, 200 were officers. The first dispatches published in Richmond gave the number of Ytuikee prisoners 40,000. The city was wild with joy, while our poor fellows in Libby were sadly dejected. The second day's news confessed that one zero too man}' had been given. Outside Libby prison the mer- cury fell to the bulb, inside it effervesced. Rich- mond was plunged into lamentations and gloom when it was ascertained that at least 17,000 con- federates had been captured; that Pickett's division GOOD AND BAD NEWS. 119 was no more; and that General Lee was hastily flying back with his broken legions across the Poto- mac. W R. C. HOSPITAL. The friends tbou bast and their adoption tried, Grapple them to thy soul with hooks of steel. Shakespeare, (cxxrr.) CHAPTER XV. HOSPITAL. The hospital during the days of conflict furnished an experience not found elsewhere. Much us men laugh and jest about it, none completed his arni}'^ life or really knew "suffering and sorrow" unless he spent at least one week in a northern hospital. Here you found angels by day (they did not ap- pear by night), sent out by the Christian commission, or some benevolent enterprise to wait on and minis- ter to our suffering boys, who, in the majority of cases, were mere l)oys, without experience or hard- ness, having entered the army under the pressure of the times ; hence when exposure came they knew not how to take care of themselves. Thousands died of homesickness, when one look from the face of wife, mother or sister would have saved them, but in most cases that could not bo, financial, family and other circumstances preventing. After the consoli- dation of our regirhent (first D. C. cavalry) with the Maine cavalry, I was assigned as orderly sergeant of company F, entered one engagement, and then was sent to the City Pomt hospital. 1 was comfortably sick, or at least thought I was. (123) 124 REMINISCENCES. But when the care and strain was removed, I found little ambition, energy or life left. Being assigned a cot and an attendant, I went to bed. At first the change from oat-sacks for a pillow, and boards, or oftener, the earth for a bed, was a delightful ex- perience. But before the first night had passed I longed for a place with the boys in the field. That bed made impressions that abide; and those attend- ants, profane, vulgar, triflors with human life. Oh, what serenes ! Angels all gone, sleep had taken its flight. " Sleep, gentle sleep, Nature's soft nurse, how have I frightened thee, That thou no more wilt weigh my eyelids down; And steep my sense in forgetfulness ? " But it would not, could not come. 1 prayed in the spirit of Shakespeare: "Sleep, downy sleep! come, close mine eyes, Tired with beholding vanities; Sweet slumbers, come and chase away The toils and follies of the day." But it came not ! Before the second night came round I had secured permission to read; antl during the six weeks' stay 1 read the Bible through and made a comment on every chapter. Then came a sad experience as the result of these days, and 1 heard it whispered, "he'll die." I saw comrade after comrade close his eyes in death to leave a poor emaciated body in the hands of reckless, thought- less, hardened boys, as a tool for sport and abuse; and wondered when my turn would come. A BED IN THE HOSPITAL. 125 One morning after a wakeful night, exhausted, hungry, disgusted, and about ready to die, I heard a female voice calling for Sergeant West, from Maine. I waved the hand as best I could, and said, "Not West, but Bolton.'' She came to the cot with a sweet, heavenly face, as I then thought. Her touch seemed like that of an angel and I said: "Could you get anything to cat, cooked as our folks cook down in Maine V She went and socm returned with a plate full of doughnuts. Well, dare I make such a change in my diet; will not this kill me outright ? But I soon made the test and in the afternoon was bolstered up, washed and had my hair combed, which was no small under- taking — uiasmuch as it had become somewhat un- used to such treatment — and started north for home that evening. Home, care and food soon placed me on my feet again. I moved out among the people; was called upon to speak in some of the school-houses, and on the morning of the 15th of April, 1865, had occasion to take up arms in my own village. Oh, what a morning that was! Our president dead — fallen by the hand of a wicked assassin. It was a mercy that Lee surrendered and had his army paroled before the deed was done, for such feelings never filled true hearts before. Believing as we did then, that it was the last stroke of the dying mon- ster we had been fightmg, wo wished the surrender had not been. We wished to fight longer; a feeling that few of the survivors have now. The most of n§ 126 REMINISCENCES. got enough. But wc soon learned who it Was thai did the deed, and were ghid it did not come from those men who had been treated so magnanimously by our heroic conunander, Gen. Grant. Walking down the streets of Newport, Maine, we were greet- ed with all kinds of salutations, such as "Too bad, that spods all; what shall we do?" "I wish I had done it, I'm glad of it !" shouted a burly, rough peddler, as he hauled up his lines in front of the depot. The words had scarcely left his lips before a soldier struck hnn, knocked him off his cart, and others rushin": to the aid of the soldier brought a rail se- lected with s])ec!al reference to sharpnes.-. and abund- ance of splinters, and soon the traitorous braggart found hunself ridmg through the streets borne by loyal men. Many others were made to take the oath of allegiance or share the same fate. The next day I started back, though far from be- ing well, and on reaching Philadelphia was ordei'ed to report for examination. I was sent to the hospi- tal again and there remained until July 12th, when I was discharged and mustered out of the service. Here I found a dificrent spirit. The hospital was a center of power for good, and the citizens took great interest in the welfare of those who tarried with them. The memory of those days brings noth- ing but kind words for the churches, homes and in- stitutions visited during the three months of my stay in that city. MUSTERED OUT. Buried the past, we will toil to adorn Freedom's domain for a nation unborn, And when we fall, this our solace shall be. Over us floats the dear flag of the free. — Unknown. (CXXVIII."' CHAPTER XVI. MUSTERED OUT. From the day of Lee's surrender there was joy in all the the land until Lincoln's assassination, which plunged millions into deep sorrow. Rallying fnmi this shock, the soldiers looked forward to the day \Yhen they should bo mustered out of the service, paid ofl", and return home. Then came the discussion of many important ques- tions, and a deep, impassable gulf between intimate and tried friends. The officers found receptions too large for any building in native village or city, while the private soldiers wended their way home un- noticed and unattended. A few" personal friends met them as they dropped off' one by one at stations along the road. The merry songs and hearty good-byes caused much merriment for the passengers w^ho watched the little squad of vets. "Good-bye, Jim, no more hard tack for you, old fellow." "Well, I don't know, I may have to do up the crumbs for dinner, unless I catch old Brown, and get a ride in from the depot. Mercy knows I am sick of (129) 130 REMINISCENCES. these here things, for I'll bet I've chewed up enough of 'cm to shingle the Avhole town, church and all." ''Well Bob, I wish I was as near home as you are; but this train don't go any farther than tonight, and I have got to loaf around toAvn all night." "Oh, no, go to the liotel, I would if it took the last penny." "Well , I have got just enough saved lo pay ofi the mortgage on the farm, and Maria has kept things running for four years now. No, I'll camp down in the station and save the two dollars." Thus thousands and hundreds of thousands wended their way back into the civil walks of life during the spring and sununer of 1805. Many of the citizens feared that these men, so long shut out from the society of home, school and church, would continue to practice the tricks, games and devices of their camp life. Warn- ings were sent out all over the country ; but our men were not in the army because they enjoyed that kind of life, but to put down the rebellion, and when it ended their army life ended, and they en- tered at once into the circles of the civilian, to take up the work they left, with an experience of real value. They had seen life ui a broader and more sacred sense, had taken on a self-reliance and dash that soon made them leaders in their neighborhoods, villages and cities. But there came an experience few have any con- ception of, unless they are discharged soldiers. The GETTING HOME. ISJ world hiid taken a long stride, the boy of 21 was now 26, and he had been in school while the soldiers were in camp or on the march. He had established himself in business, and durin^o^ the days of unpar- alleled prosperity had made a fortune, while the sol- dier had barely held his own. So the soldier returned to find himself and his little family (or his sweetheart) distanced by the years and their gifts to others. The wages had passed from $.75, $1, $2.50, to $3 and $5 per day; but the soldier could not take the advance, for his absence liad made way for others to become experts in the mechanical arts. This was the trial of his life. He had been brave, suflered uncomplainingly. No army ever left such homes, comforts, lu.xuries, and advantages as did the army of the North. No army ever suflered more from exhaustion, exposure and inexperienced officers, and now to be snubbt d, passed by and left, by those for Avhom they had suffered, was often almost unendurable. It scat- tered the disbanded army throughout the length and breadth of our land, until the percentage of returned soldiers m the newly settled villages and cities of our far west was very large. This doubtless was a good result, though severe discipline. The perse- cution of the saints did more to carry the gospel of Jesus into all the world than any one thing in the first century. And I doubt not that the scattering of the Union army had done much towards developing the vast resources of wealth in this great western world. 132 REMINISCENCES. They could not with self-respect listen to the murmuring tax payers of the East, who accumulated their wealth, while the soldier made it possible for them to enjoy their prosperity. Oh how easy it is for men to forget their indebtedness to others for what they enjoy. Could they have seen their neigh- bors and classmates sleeping on the frozen earth, while the cold winds swept over their uncovered forms, or visited them while marching barefooted over thel.thorny ways, or lying l)ctwecn contending armies for days, with broken arms and legs, without food or drink to cool their burning and parched lips; while the hot sunl)urncd ther upturned and un- protected faces, no physician or chaplain allowed to visit them, no one to care for their festering wounds, they would have felt differently toward them. But the soldiers seldom refer to what they suffered. Nay, they suflfered uncomplainingly and stand out in honor when compared with that class of com- plaining men who revile the best government on God's green earth, because they are obliged to pay a paltry tax on the luxuries no other land ever gave. 'In patience, then, posess thy soul. Stand still, for while the thunders roll. Thy Saviour sees thee through the gloom, And will to thy assistance come; His love and mercy will be shown To those who trust in him alone." COL. HENRY CRIBBEN Friend! wilt thou give me shelter here?" The stranger meekly said. — Whittier. [ CXXXIV ) CHAPTER XVII. ESCAPE FROM PRISON, COLONEL HENRY CRIBBEN'S NARRATIVE. From a detailed account of Capture, Imprisonment and Escape, written by Colonel Henry Gribben, of Chicago, at the request of his old comrades, I am permitted to print what follows, which gives an idea of what was endured by many of our country's de- fenders who were so unfortunate as to fall into the enemy's hands, and yet so fortunate as to make their escape from the horrors of the Southern prison pens, and work their way back again to the Union lines. After his capture in June, 1864, in Virginia, Col- onel Cribbcn was taken first, to Libby Prison, then, in succession, to Macon, Savannah, Charleston, Columbia — "Sorghum prison" — and, finally, to a camp near Charlotte, S. C, from which, by bribing the guard, he, with several others, was permitted to escape. The extract from the Colonel's narrative begms with their imprisonment near Charlotte : When some miles south of Charlotte in the morn- ing of February 11th, we were unloaded and put into a field surrounded by woods on three sides. A "dead line" and a guard line were staked out, and a ration (135) 136 KEMINISUENCES. of large, hard biscuit was issued to us — the first and last we saw in Dixie. The guard was extended for wood that afternoon into the timber beyond the creek from which we secured our water. This creek ran through a deep cut with high, per- pendicular l)anks, for some distance covered with thick underbrush, and when the guards were drawn in, at least fifty or more were in hiding along the banks of the creek in the deep cut, and during the night got away. On reaching prison with my load of wood I started to the creek for water while my comrades built the fire. I there found my old friends at "Sor- ghum" on guard. They said they had left Columbia in such a hurry and without rations, that they were both hungry, and asked me if I could get them some- thing to cat. I told them 1 thought I could, and would bring it out to them. I got some corn bread and an onion, which they divided between them. They thanked me, and asked me if I still wanted to go home as bad as ever. I told them I did; and they told me to be on the lookout between 10 and 12 o'clock that night at that point with my partner, Captain Stevens, of the40thN. Y. At the appointed time we went to the creek for water and asked one of them if it was all right; he said he Avould ask his partner, who was then approaching. They met and talked a moment; they told me when they met again and turned their backs on each other, if there was no one there getting water, to move quietly across the creek into the woods. When they again met and THE START. 137 turned to leave each other, one of them said '\^o," and wo went for the woods and struck off in a north- westerly dh'ection by starlight. During the night we met quite a number of those who got away in the afternoon, and Captain Poole, of the 122d N. Y., Lieutenant J. C. Clark, of a Massachusetts regiment, and a Captain of a West Virginia cavalry regiment joined our party. We kept on through the woods in a northwesterly direc- tion during the night, following a line between the North and West star, and, on the appearance of day- light, filed into the woods and lay down; the weather being clear and cold. We were awakened by the sun shining in our faces, got up, moved still farther into the timber, and slept the most of the day. About 1(> that night we again started on our journey, anddur ing the night we struck the old deserted plank road running from Columbia to Knoxville. We had traveled only a few miles when our comrade from West Virginia began to show signs of weakness, and wc carried him along, one on each side of him, hop- inoj he would soon regain his strenojth. He had been in prison some fifteen or sixteen months, and, neg- lecting to exercise, was in no condition to travel, and, finally, gave out from exhaustion, and we were obliged to leave him at the gate of a plantation, al)out 2 o'clock in the morning. We traveled riip idl}' until daylight, when we turned into the woods and went into camp for the day. Our food was being rapidly diminished, some of the party being entirely 138 REMINISCENCES. destitute. I still had a small piece of corn bread and two onions; Poole being short, I divided with him ray corn bread, and he handed me his bone, of which, during the night before, he had promised to give me a bite in the morning. It was white as chalk, without a trace of meat thereon. 1 looked at him in astonishment, and asked him what he meant. He replied that I would find some very fine marrow in the shank. I returned him the bone and told him to keep it for his own use. So far we had a plentiful supply of water, but had no means of carrying any with us. We found no water in the vicinity of our camp during the day, and did not travel many miles the third night, when our thirst compelled us to look for water through the woods, but we failed to find an3^ We were compelled to drink the water out of the wagon tracks, l)y moonlight, they being well filled by the recent rains. We drank this water several times during the first two hours of our jour- ney, and it soon caused a feverish and weakening sensation, and I was soon exhausted, and sat down at the root of a tree to rest, and told the others to go on and I would overtake them when I felt better. They kept on their way. As I s;it there with my head agjiinst the tree in the beautiful moonlight I saw something glisten like a bright diamond among the trees on the opposite side of the road; this bright object would often disappear and then reappear as bright as ever. My curiosity was aroused, and when rested I went over, and as I approached the spot it FRIENDS IN NEED. 139 disappeared again. I was standing on the edge of a deep hole in the woods, the bottom of which was covered with black dirt and leaves. I stood there waiting the return of my phantom diamond which soon appeared, and proved to be a large body of snow beneath the dirt and leaves in the hole. I at once cleaned off the dirt and leaves and took out some nice clean snow and began to eat it with a rel- ish. It put new life into me. I made a large snow- ball and started on my journey to overtake my com- rades, whom 1 found lying in the corner of a rail fence at the roadside, two of them being asleep; and Stevens, on guard. I divided my snowball with him, and he agreed if I would find a house he would ask the people for something to eat. 1 moved up the road only a short distance from where they lay and found a trail crossing the road, which I followed, and soon came in sis:ht of a los: cabin in the hollow. As I approached the house a dog came out from under the house to greet me; at the same moment a head appeared at the door and asked : "Who's dar?" Recognizing the voice as that of a colored woman, I replied: "One of Massa Lincoln's soldiers, very hungry; can you give him something to eat?" She said: "Come in quick, honey, while I blow out the light." I advanced cautiously, and found two colored 140 REMINISCENCES. women, to whom I quickly told my story, and they said: "Go fetch 'cm quick, afore the men folks come home. " It proved to be a boarding house for colored men who worked in a foundry, running night and day, about two miles from the house. On my return I found all three asleep in the fence corner, and hurisied them to the house, where Ave found two large platters filled with hoe-cake and a plate of fried bacon awaiting us on the table. While we were engaged in devouring the hoc-cake and ba- con five of the hoarders appeared on the scene. They were stalwart slaves, and when told that we had eaten up all the cooked victuals in the house, said they could get along until breakfast; and one of them went with us to the settlement to get some food to take along with us. He got us a loaf of rye and Indian bread and some three pounds of raw pork. One old colored lady said she had no meat, but she had some right nice cracklins, and we could take them along. They proved to be a small bag full of pork tryings, which were to us quite a delicacy for the next three days. We got provisions enough to carry us to Marion, N. C, where we had our stores again replenished by the negro village blacksmith and his son-in-law. It was very near daylight as we approached the town, and the dogs in the village located in the neighborhootl came out into the road, upon our approach, and seemed determined to pre- IT WAS NOT APPLEJACK. 141 vent us from going into the village. We took to the woods and the dogs after us for some distance, when they gave up the chase. It was the Sabbath day, and our camp in the woods lay near a path loading across the country, and a number of white people and negroes passed during the day going to and coming from church. Captain Stevens was on picket, and seeing a lone negro coming across the country, hailed him; but, being suspicious, he could not be induced to enter the woods. So Stevens went out and made himself known to him, and he agreed to bring us some provisions that night, and also bring his father-in-law. They appeared shortly after dark with a basket of eatables. One of the first arti- cles they took out of the basket was a black bottle well filled, as we supposed, with apple-jack. Poole seized the bottle, drew the cork and put it to his mouth to take a drink, when he began to spit it out on the ground. We asked him in a whisper what it was (we dare not speak in a loud tone of voice for fear of discovery); he replied, "sorghum molasses." They brought us food enough for supper and suffi- cient for the folloAving day, and after we ate our sup- per the young man escorted us around the town and put us on the road. We thanked him, and told him he would soon be free, as President Lincoln had so declared in his Emancipation proclamation. The night was cold and clear, the roads fairly good. We got over the ground rapidly, and when we went into camp in the morning, felt we had made about 25 142 REMINISCENCES. miles. Wc postponed our l)reakfast to as late an hour as possible so our provisions would tide us over until the following night. When night came wc started out early and traveled steadily all nigiit without accident, and turned into the woods on the first appearance of daylight, weary and wet, as we had traveled in water running in the road for an hour or more. It was a clear, cold morning. The soles were worn ofT my shoes, which were wrapped in rags to prevent the sand and gravel from working into my feet, Avhich were becoming soro from travel- ing over the wet road. We lay down and were soon asleep; when wc w^cre awakened by the heat of the sun 1 found the rags on my feet a mass of ice and the feet inside badly frozen. During the day we fasted, having eaten the last morsel of food the night before, which was anything but a satisfactory por- tion to a hungry man destined to travel all night over a very rough and rugged road. As we were now approaching the mountains, we decided to find food before starting on our journey that night, let the consequences be what they would. The negroes of the South have a peculiar signal for advertising or notifying their friends of their movements, or time for starting for any special gathering, such as sorghum bailings, dances, or meetings of any kind. When going through the woods they would sing "Kahay, Kahaya.-' Hear- ing the signal very close l)y, we started in search of the negro, hoping to reach him before he met his UNWELCOME GUESTS 143 friends, and induce him to get us something to eat. We were gaining on him in the woods, but on leav- ing the timber he started across a Held filled with In-ush-heaps and was fast reaching the house in the clearing, the light of which we saw ahead of us, I)iit before we could overtake our supposed negro friend, the door opened and two ladies came walking towards us saying, "Good evening" to the party in our front. When they met us they seemed very much terrified, and ran back to the house. Wc followed quickly, Chirk acting as guard at the front door and Poole at the back door, Stevens and myself going into the house to negotiate for something to eat. Each of our party carried a stafT seven feet long and about two inches in diameter at the butt end. We found tlie occupants to be an old gen- tleman, his wife and iT-y ear-old son, whom we had been following through the woods and brush, and the two young ladies who had run at our approach. We asked if they would kindly furnish us supper, offering to pay them lil)orally for it. He asked us who we were; we told him. He replied that he was very sorry for us, but could not or would not feed the enemies of his country. We tried to reason with him, but all to no purpose. Wc then told him if he did not furnish it for us wc should be compelled to take it, if it was in the house. His wife, who had not spoken since our arrival, called him to the cor- ner in which she was sitting and induced him to furnish us something to eat. He asked the number 14i REMINISCENCES. of our party. We increased the number to eight. He looiied very anxiously at a squirrel rifle hanging over my head and then looked at the stafl" in my hand. He was told not to think of securing the rifle or the cfibrt might cost him his life. When supper was prepared Clark and Poole went to sup- per while Stevens and myself remained on guard over the old gentleman, his son and the two young ladies. After supper they gave us food for the imaginary four, who were supposed to be in the woods near the creek across the road, and we re- quested him to go with us to that point, which was the i)lacc where we left the road that morning, and sec our friends, which he willingly agreed to. When wc reached the creek our friends could not be found, and vvc went up the road in search of them. On taking leave of our host he said he should inform the authorities of our presence in the neighborhood on the following day. Wo asked how far he would have to travel for that purpose, and he replied ten miles in the direction we had come. We told him not to make the attempt until after daylight, as a large number of our men, some of whom were armed, were following us to the mountain, and if he should fall into their hands they would take liim through to our lines, if he did not lose his life. He said he would not start until after breakfast. We thanked him for his kindness and gave him $350.00 in Confederate money for the food he furnished, and started on our journey. FORAGING PARTIES. 145 We soon reached the l):ise of a low range of mountains. On reaching the top we found the ground covered with at least 10 or 12 inches of snow; but not frozen hard enough to bear our weight, antl we broke through at every step. We found here quite a settlement. The noise started the dogs to barking and they made a terrible fuss about our presence in the neighborhood. We got behind trees and remained there until the dogs retired. When quiet was again restored we began a Hanking move- ment to the right, traveling raid-way of the hill that surrounded the farming land which was free from snow. The country at this point seemed to be alive with foraging parties gathering supplies for the rebel government. Having had a full meal for supper and enough food for breakfast, we had decided to make the extra meal secured carry us through to the next night. We went for quite a while at about a five mile pace, when suddenly we heard voices in our front coming towards us; we stampeded into the woods, each one getting behind a tree to let them })ass. They proved to be white and black teamsters with their mules, and their loud talk and the noise of their trace chains prevented them from hearing us running through the dry leaves in the woods. The second morning after leaving our host at the creek we filed into the woods with empty havre-sacks and lay down to sleep. When night came hunger compelled us to seek food again before starting on our journey. Our camp in the woods overlooked a 146 REMIMSCENCES. number of farm houses in the valley below which had been watched closely during the day, and we selected a house where only women were seen mov- ing about. As we approached the house, which was set up on short pieces of saw-logs, a large hound came out from underneath to dispute our passage and we prepared to give him a Avarni reception with our poles, when the door opened and a female voice asked, who was there, and what wo wanted. Capt. Stevens replied that we ^vere hungry and wanted something to eat. She told us to come in, ordered the dog off, and, when the candles were lighted, four ragged, hungry officers of the Union army were looking into the eyes of the first white friends of the (Jnion we had met on the journey. They were mother and daughter, whose names 1 have forgotten, my diary kept on the road being lost after I had returned home. We were soon seated at the table spread with cold ham, warm potatoes, good bread and butter, pre serves, and coffee made of rye. While eating supper the rain began to fall in torrents, and they insisted upon our sleeping in the house over night, or until the rain ceased. We refused to do so, knowing if we were discovered it would bring them into trouble, their neighbors being arch-rebels, but tt)ld them we would sleep in the barn until the rain subsided, and for fear of being detected on their premises we would go into the woods in the morning, and they could send out something for us to eat. We started FRIENDS OF THE UNION. 147 for the woods at daylight. It wus still raining. Our breakfast Avas sent in a basket, and wc sat tlown at the root of a large tree and ate it with a relish. Some three miles distant lived an uncle of the younger lady who had brought our breakfast into the woods, and seeing our condition she said she was going after her uncle, John Williams, who, she thought, could do something to help us. We pro- tested against her going in the rain, but she would not listen to our advice, and started at once through the woods. Being on picket, I was on the lookout for their return. I saw them coming at a distance. They left the path before reaching me and stai'ted for the spot where she had left us some four hours before. My companions were sleeping in the rain, and not wanting to wake them I tried to head vhem off, but failed. They reached the spot before \i did; and seeing my companions sleeping in a knitting posture at the base of a large tree the man £,/.opped short, joined his hands together in the attirade of prayer, and looking up into the heavens sai<:^; "O Lord, my God, look with mercy u/zon these, my countrymen, who, for doing their J.aty in de- fense of their country, are hunted through the woods like wild beasts." And the tears ran down his cheeks like rain. It was agreed to go to his house after dark and he would have supper ready for us on our arrival. He agreed to have his lantern burning on the porch of his house. To reach the house we were to cross a 148 REMINISCENCES. mill-race on a foot-bridge with a single hand rail; and when I crossed I looked in the dark for the rail, lost my balance and fell mto the water. They fished me out quickly and we were soon inside the house before a cheerful tire, where 1 remained imtil my clothing was thoroughly dry. After supper, the rain having ceased, we decided to continue our journey, and Mr. John Williams saddled his horse to take us around the town of Morgantown. We got fairly started when the rain poured down in sheets, and he turned around, halted at the door of his house and told us to enter quick, as he would not turn a dog out in such a night as that. He had beds made up for us, but we refused to sleep in his house, but told him we could make ourselves very comfortable in his hay-mow until the storm was over. He went out and pitched up the hay from the center of the mow, making a snug place for us to rest, where we remained four nights, during which time it rained incessantly. He brought us a basket of food every morning and evening during our stay, and visited with us daily. The fifth night we started again, accompanied by Mr. Williams. The rain had softened the ground so as to make it unsafe for him to ride his horse in the darkness, and we insisted upon his returning home, Avhich he did very reluct- antly. We soon came to a school house where a meeting of some kind was being held; we left it in our rear and struck out for the road. About the time we reached the road the meeting adjourned and A CONFEDERATE CAPTAIN. 149 a number of those who were in attendance started home on the road in our rear. We went quickly into a yard close to a house and lay down in the corner of a tight board fence until they passed. This was a very windy night and I began to feel sick from the exposure of the last twenty days in the month of February and March. The mud being very deep, I felt it working in at the bottom of my shoes and working out over the top, which was any- thing but pleasant to a sick person. With my teeth set in my head, I was fully determined to follow my comrades or die in the attempt. We started early that night and had not got far from the village when we came to a house situated some distance back from the road with the door open, a fire burning on the hearth and a man seated at the table eating his sup- per. We moved by with as little noise as possible, and when we cleared the house by some 100 yards we began to run in the mud very nearly ankle deep. W^e kept it up until exhausted. In passing we saw the man at the table turn his head to look at us. He finished his supper and followed and caught up with us where the road ran through a heavy wood. Not being able to keep pace with my comrades I was bringing up the rear, and hearing tramp, tramp, in the mud behind 1 called the attention of the others to the fact that some one was coming. We con- cluded to face the music and see who it was. It proved to be Capt. John Fletcher of the 39th North Carolina going home to Ashville, N. C, on a leave 150 REMINISCENCES. of absence from Gen. Lee's army. He asked me where we were going and I replied to Kutlierforton. He said we were not on the road to that phicc, and he did not beheve we wanted to go there; he also said he knew who we were, and as far as he was concerned he was disposed to help us on oiu" way over the mountains, and said he had met three of our comrades who had been recaptured that night going back to prison under guard. When we were satisfied that we could trust him, we told him the route we mtended to take over the mountains, and he told us we would certainly be captured, as all the gaps m that neighborhood were guarded. He ad- vised us to Gfo farther to the rio-ht and cross over Indian Grove or Swinge Cat Gaps, and said we had a straight road after crossing Muddy river, which lay about six miles to our right from the four corners which we would soon reach on the road. When we reached the corners he said he would go with us to Muddj' river, as it was badly swollen and hard to cross, and he knew of a bridge which it would be difficult for us to find in the dark. As we traveled along the road the dogs came out to meet us, and the rebel captain would drive them off and often go into the houses and ask for information while we kept moving along the road. Being a good traveler, he would socn overtake us, and we finally reached the river. It was full to overflowing and could not be forded. Ho led us down the left bank somethinc: like a mile or more and found the bridsre THROUGH THE MUD. 151 with the approach from oar side washed away. He forded into the stream up to his arm-pits and found strips of board nailed to the trestle, which was used as a hidder for getting to the top of the bridge. He climl)ed to the top and we soon followed. After crossing to the other side he bade us good-bye, took the address of each of our party and told us he would be obliged to go to the point where the roads crossed to get on the one leading to his home at Ashville. We returned to him our sincere thanks for his kindness. He asked us if we intended to rejoin our commands on our return home. We told him we did, and he then said he would feel fully compensated for his trouble if, in case he was captured by any of us as a prisoner of war, if we would treat him as a man; saying our treatment by the Confederate government was inhuman and a dis- grace to civilization. Each of us assured him of humane treatment in case of capture by any of us, and he bade us good-bye, going back over Muddy river and the very muddy road over which we had come. CHAPTER XVIII. COL. cribben's narrative continued. Shortly after starting we found the commissary agents with their wagons in camp near the roadside in a field. We flanked them to the right, and when we had traveled a few miles further, went into camp in the woods, being well supplied with food by Mr, Williams the night before. My com- rades fjircd sumptuously on the following day and started out early on the following night. About midnight of March 6th we reached the Cahawba river, which we were to cross near the entrance of Buck creek. The stream being badly swollen and the water very cold, the ice running in the stream, we forded the river with our underclothing on our persons and carrying our outside clothing on our heads. On reaching the opposite side we wrung out our under garments and put them on again Avith the dry clothing on the outside, found the road leading from the ford and started on. About a mile from where we crossed, the road forked to the right and left, the left road leading across a large and turbu- lent stream, the right running at the base of one of the Buck mountains, and we decided to take the (153) 154 llEMINIf^CENCES. rojid leading to the right. In less than two miles distant \vc came to a river, deep and wide, and could find no fording place. After repeated failures to cross we went into camp in the woods near the stream so as to locate the ford should anyone cross during the next day. It began rainmg very hard, and our inside clothing being wet from fording: the stream, our outside clothing, which we had taken pains to keep dry, was fast becoming soaked. We selected a spot, spread our blanket and were parturc the colored man came into my room to look after my comfort and replenish the fire. I asked where my comrades were. He said they were gone, and I was to follow when 1 was able. I told him I was very thankful to his master, his family and himself for their kindness to mc, but I was determined to follow m}' comrades. Seizing my stafl', which was standing against the wall, I started, the negro accompanying mo until we came in sight of my compruiions, who were climbing up the mountain. With my jaws firmly set I began the ascent of th;! hill. Wiien my friends reached the top, one lo!)ked down and saw me struggling about half Wiiy up and s:it down and waited for me. I sat down with them. It was a bright morning, and the sun, which had been hidden for days, camo out in all its glory. They tried to prevail on mo to re- turn, telling mo Avhat our host agreed to do for me; but I insisted I was well enough to travel, and would try hard to keep up and not retard tluMr progress. If I. was unal>lo to continue they could go on and TRAVELING UNDER DIFFICULTIES. 159 leave me, but I could not think of stopping with our friend in a Rebel neis^hljorhood, he himself beinsr cjmpclled to hide in the mountains to prevent his capture, and not daring to show his face at home during daylight. When they saw I was determined to go we started down the side of the mountain. The first step 1 took downward I fell on my face in the bushes. I got up and made two more attempts and found it was im- possible for me to walk down hill, as my bowels seemed to want to leave my body every time my foot touched the earth. I concluded to try and roll down the mountain side. Placing both hands across my bowels to pre- vent them from getting away, I started to roll, and reached the bottom before my more fortunate com- panions. The guide pointed to the next hill we had to climb, and I started up slowly. Reaching the top, I sat down to rest for a few moments, and be- gan to roll again to the valley below, keeping ahead of my companions. 1 did this five consecutive times, when we reached the bridle path leading up Buck creek. At this place our guide left us and returned home. We then started for Mr. Elliott's home, some three miles up the ci'cek. The path was ascending for quite a distance, and I got along very comfort- ably. On reaching the top of the ascent, we were halted at the muzzle of a Sharp's rifle by a man coming from the opposite direction, who ordered one uf us to advance, Captain Stevens, still wearing his 1 60 REMINISCENCES. shoulder-straps, i^oing forward,told him who wc were, lie then lowered his rilie and said wc eoiild all ad- vance. On taking my tirst step doAvn tlic incline I fell on my face. Captain Poole and Clark picked mc up, and taking nic by each arm helped me to the spot where the paity was standing. He proved to be a Union man going to mill with a grist, accom- panied l)y his wife and boy; the latter with the grist on the back of an ox. This man was armed with a Sharp's rifle, two Colt's revolvers in a belt, one on each hip, and a large knife in the center of his back. S(mic of the grists sent to this mill l)y Union men had been confiscated by the Kebels, and he was going to take a position in the woods within rifle range of the mill, and should they undertake to confiscate his grist they would pay the penalty. He told us of a path leading to Mr. Elliott's house through the field where we could travel on a level, and bo less liable to meet any person who Avould give the Rebels infor- mation of our presence in the valley. Wc reached Elliott's al)out 4: o'clock in the afternoon. He gave us a Avarm welcome. When he took my hand he looked at mc in amazement, I l)eing covered with mud, my eyes sunken in my head, and my Avcight 116 pounds avoirdupois. Ho remarked that I looked like death on legs; that I must be a very sick man. 1 told him of my suflfering during the past week, and how 1 had rolled down the mountain. He said we were in a safe place and had better remain Avitli him for a few days. I was agreed, provided he could induce A WARM WELCOME. 161 the others to remain, which he succeeded in doing, and we were to rest for four or five days. When I got the mud scraped off my clothing and my face washed I felt refreshed. Mrs. Elliott got supper ready and we were about to go in the house when we saw the storm clouds gathering in the west, and, while watching them, we saw four horsemen ap- proaching. On reaching the stile on the west side of the house one of them dismounted, one of the others leadmg his horse around the base of the hill. The party proved to be Colonel Silvers, of the Rebel army, on his way to Marion to take the train. He had been home on a leave of absence from Hood's army, and the three men with him were his Rebel neighbors who were acting as his escort. When he approached the house with saber dragging at his heels and pistol at his belt we were staudmg in line in front of the house, and gave him a military salute, which he returned. Captain Stevens asked hun what regiment, and, as near as 1 can recollect, he replied, 34th N. C, of General Hood's army. In return he asked Stevens what regiment we belonged to. Stevens replied, IGth Tenn., of General Lee's army; were prisoners at Johnson's Island, had made our escape, and were going home to Greenvdle. The color seemed to come and go in the Colonel's face, and not caring to question us farther, he asked if Mr. Elliott was about. Elliott was then caring: for his stock, and had not seen the Colonel. He came up smiling, extended his hand to the Colonel, who 162 REMrNISCENCES. uskcd him if be could keep him and his friends over night. He said he was very sorry to say he could not; but his brother, Avho lived less than a mile down the creek, had ample accommodations, and Avould gladly entertain him and his friends. He started for the east gate and "\ve went to supper. Before Mr. Elliott joined us at the table, the Colonel called for him to come to him in the bushes midway between the house and gate. 1 could see them from my seat at the table. The Colonel seemed very much excited about something, and Mr. Elliott kept very cool. They soon parted, Mr. EHiott going to the rear of the pork house, where he began cutting wood. Not being able to cat anything, I sipped some coffee made of rye, left the table and went to see what the trouble was. He said we must get out of the valley that niirht. He related what the Colonel had said, viz: That we were not Confederates, but were the officers commanding a foraging party from General Gillam's command who were running horses and cattle into the Union lines, and who he supposed, were oper- ating on the main road Avhich he had left, and had come down Buck creek bridle path to avoid them. He said no doubt our men were then in camp close by in the Buck mountains. When Elliott found the Colonel took that view of the case he began to show great fear for his horses and cattle, and asked the Colonel to advise him what to do. It was decided by the two that instead of remaining with his brother they would get supper there and secure a guide and CIRCUMVENTING THE ENEMY 1G3 go to Carson's mills, where a battalion of cavalry was stationed; then they would return by the main road and capture us. If we gave any signal or showed any resistance we were to be shot down like dogs. Mr. Elliott sent word to his brother to secure a reliable guide for the Colonel, one who would see to it that the Colonel and his party were well soaked in swimming the swollen waters of Buck creek, as they had to cross it three different times before reaching the mill at the ford. The wood he was cutting proved to be pitch pine for torches to be used on our journey that night over the Blue Ridge mountains. Mr. Elliott went into the house, put some hard boiled eggs and biscuit in his pocket, and when the Colonel was out of sight we started up the Blue Ridge mountain. On reaching the top we halted near a house or cabin, the rain pouring down in tor- rents. Elliott told us to remain there until he whistled. In a short time the whistle sounded, and two torches appeared in the darkness. As we ap- proached the rear corner of the cabin, out filed sev- enteen Rebel soldiers with their carbines in their hands. To say that we were surprised does not be- gin to express our feelings. We were astounded, and thought we bad been led into a trap. Tor a moment silence reigned supreme; neither party spoke a word, the two men holding the torches grin- ning with delight at our mutual surprise. One of the Rebels asked if wc were going home. Stevens 1G4 REMINISCENCES. replied we were if we could get there, and asked where they Averc going. They replied : "We are going home to Georgia." They were all deserters from Vaughn's cavalry in East Tennessee, fourteen from one company and three from another, and were making their way home along the top of tlie Blue liidge. These deserters were in jeopardy in case the Colonel carried out his threat, as promised. This being the point where the bridle path leaves the main road on the top of Iho mountain, it became necessary for them to move to a safer place. Mr. Elliott took thorn in charge to lead them to an old deserted cabin higher up the mountain, while the man who lived in the cabin took us by torch light to the South Toe river. My sufferings durhig that journey would be diffi- cult for me to relate. Suffice it to say that I went through water, from knees to my waist, fourteen different times; and finally forded the South Toe river, a very rapid stream, with the water encircling my neck, and fine shore ice running in the stream; all of us being obliged to take a set with our fording poles before taking each stej) across the ford. 1 gave up to die on three different occasions on our way to the river, my comrades going on and leaving mo; but when they came to the crossing of a mountain stream they missed me and came back after rac. After crossing the river we traveled about half a mile to Mrs. Holt's house, her husband being a scout in our army operating in East Tennessee. When she FORDING THE RIVER. 165 ascertained who we were she opened the door, bade us Avelcomc to her home,— wet and shaking with the cold, the water still runnmg from our clothing, — she threw light tuider wood on the large fire logs in the fireplace, and we were soon standing before a hot, blazing tire. We kept turning before that fire until we steamed dry. When dry, Mrs. Holt spread her feather bed before the fire for us to sleep on, and we immediately lay down and were soon asleep. About daylight I was awakened by a man shaking me, who said he wanted me to get up. I looked at him a mo- ment, and told hnn he was the ugliest looking man I ever beheld. He said he was as ugly as he looked, which we would find out in due time. I sat up and found Mrs. Holt gone, her children being still in bed. I also found our guide had gone. This man had a coonskin cap, using the head for a peak, and a shaggy beard that grew close to his eyes. In his hand he grasped a squirrel rifle, over his shoulder hung a powder horn, in his belt he carried two large revolvers and a huge knife in a leather case. I told him I was sick almost unto death, and if he would hand me my stafl' which stood in the corner I would get up. He was about to do as requested when Mrs. Holt appeared in the doorway with an armful of kindling wood. She called him by name, and bade him good morning, and I told him he was not quite as bad as he tried to make me l)elieve. He said our guide had gone to his house before daylight, and went direct to his father's house up the river and 1G6 REMINISCENCES. sent him after us. We ate breakfast with Mrs. Holt, and started for his fatlier's house, our former guide notifying them of our coming. When we reached there breakfast was ready, and they insisted on our eating again. Here we met two brothers of the shaggy guide, one a Lieutenant in General Lee's army, the other a Sergeant in Colonel Silver's regi- ment. The Sergeant had deserted, and the Lieuten- ant was home on leave, and intended to stay. The brothers went with us to a Mr. Cox's on Crab Tree creek, a small settlement near North Toe river. We found the river very high and running wild. The boats in the neighborhood had been carried down the stream, and it was not safe for man or beast to cross at that time, so we decided to wait for the river to subside. Three days afterward we crossed it on horseback, swimming the animals through the rapid mountain torrent, and reached Dr. Ward's house that night for supper. After supper the Doc- tor secured a guide for us, and we traveled toward Greasy Cove, reaching that point about daylight. Wc slept during the day, and at 3 p. m. started on our journey, reaching Ward's Stand about 5 r. M., taking supper at the house of a miller near Shcrar's Cove, which was quite a large settlement of guer- rilhis. The majorit}^ of the male inhabitants were members of a guerrilla band of freebooters who jjlundered, rol)bed and often murdered their former friends and ncigh])ors who had the courage of their convictions and remained true to the Old Flag. A GUERILLA SETTLEMENT. 167 From the miller's we went to a Mr, Holfs, a brother-in law of the lady we stopped with at the South Toe river. He was absent from home, being compelled to hide in the woods. We remained in his house over night and went into the woods the next morning at daylight. During the day Mrs. Holt sent word to her husband, and he piloted us that night within five miles of the French Broad river, where wc expected to strike our forces, who were up the valley securing supplies for the army operating in the vicinity of Knoxvillc. About noon of the following day we started under cover of the woods for Vcdder's Mills, where our troops were encamped, and where we arrived in the afternoon about 3 o'clock. Having reached the Union lines, it was not long before the Colonel was on his Avay home. The ac- count of his first meeting with his friends is interest- ing. He had thought to surprise them, and had not telegraphed that he was coming. He succeeded in surprising them somewhat more than he anticipated. He says : I reached Rochester, N. Y., a))out G a. m., March 23, 1865. On my way home from the depot I met a man with whom I had been associated for fifteen years. I hailed him and bade him good morning; he returned the salutation. I asked after the health of a number of our former associates and others. I then asked after his father's, mother's and brothers' health, calling the brothers by name. He replied 1*38 REMINISCENCES. they wore well. I asked him if he knew how my own fiimily was, he bein^^ quite well acquainted with them. He said: "Well now, my friend, if I knew who yon were 1 might be able to tell you. You seem to know mc and my family, and a number of my associates, but I do not recollect you. Will you kindly tell me your name?" 1 thought, "Can it be possible that I have so changed that this man does not know me," and re- mtirkcd : "1 am a soldier, and, like many others who, when out of sight, are soon forgotten by their former friends and associates," and throwing open my cav- alry overcoat — the collar being up behind and above my ears, the weather being quite cold — I said to him: "Do you know me now V He replied, "No, sir, I do not; and as far as for- getting the soldier is concerne(^, I certainly do not, for I had some warm friends who went into the army, one of whom was hung by the Rebel guerrillas near our lines in Tennessee while making his escape? from a Rebel prison, and his only crime was asking for something to eat. His Sero;eant was huno^ with him on the same tree." I remarked that that was a brutal murder, and asked him to give me the names of the parties, thinking I might know them, as I was acquainted with all the Rochester officers that were in our prison, and he mentioned my own name and that of Ser- NOT RECOGNIZED, 169 geant James Benedict, of my regiment, "svho was captured with me at Cold Harbor, but whom I had not seen since I entered Libhy Prison, Avhen he was taken to Castle Thunder and from there to Ander- sonville. This was a surprise for me, surely, and I replied, calling him by name: "Your friend Cribben was not hung, as you say; but he was on the Tennessee line, was often hungry, and often asked for something to cat; but, for- tunately for him, never fell into the hands of the guerrillas," and rolling down my cavalry overcoat collar, I said: "You see before you all that is left of your friend Cribben." With eyes distended, he stared at me and said he had listened to my funeral sermon, preached by Dr. Raines at Alexander Street M. E. Church, only two weeks before; and, seeing some acquaintances com- ing toward us, he began to yell: "Say! hold on there! The dead is alive! Shake hands with my friend Harry." I shook his friends by the hand and excusing my- self, told them I must hurry home to my wife and children to inform them of my presence in the body. I called on my brother-in-law at his store, who went home with me. My wife was getting break- fast for my little boy and girl, preparatory to send- ing them to school. When we opened the kitchen door she had gone down cellar through a trap-door leading from the kitchen, and we waited for her 170 REMINISCENCES. return. She soon appeared with a plate of bnttei in her hand. When she reached the lioor, my brother-in-law, standing in the door, said: "I told you I would bring Henry; I have got him this morning," and 1 stepped in and said good morn- ing, calling her by name; and the butter-plate went into the cellar, and she went into a heap on the floor, fainting awiiy. Lifting her up I laid her on a couch in the kitchen. She soon recovered, and the usual family greeting took phice, and the young widow of some four weeks had recovered her hus- band who was reported as being hung on the Ten- nessee line by the guerrillas, and I had the pleasure of reading my own obituaries published by the press of the city. G. A. R. CHAPTER XIX. ORGANIZATIONS AFTER THE WAR. A million of men with kindred experiences, stories and })urposes were not to remain in the midst of those who, for want of knowledge and experience, could not sympathize with them, without an organi- zation of their own. At first they met in conven- tions and campfires, where the old enthusiasm was rekindled with unique volumes of stories, recita- tions, reminiscences and prophecies. These meet- ings at once brought to light this fact — that these men had formed friendships as lasting as life, welded in the fire of battle and the furnace ofsuffering. The discussions of thinking men called attention to the responsibility of caring for the 350,000 graves then occupied by dead comrades. How should this be done ? Who should visit the lone graves so soon forgotten? Then came the discussion of political organization, which soon developed the fact that soldiers had political preferences that must be toler- ated, yea, respected. These discussions in some instances brought tem- porary feelinfjs of anger and malice among men who bad stood side by side in line of battle, for there (173) 174 REMINISCENCES. were men whose political ambitions were so strong as to demand the patronage of companies, regi- ments, divisions, corps and armies. These things gave the veterans great trouble until in ISGG, April 6th, the Grand Army of the Republic was organized at Si)ringfield, Illinois, and the first post mustered in at Decatur, Illinois. The Rev. Wm. G. Rut- ledge, late chaplain of the 14th Illinois infantry, had formed a strong attachment to Major Stephenson, of the same regiment, and often talked to him of the demand for such an organization, so that these sacred friendships could be perpetuated, memories cherished, and graves visited, orphans and widows of the deceased comrades cared for without the po- litical strife and bitterness incident. to party politics in a republic like ours. This has been, is, and Avill doubtless remain a non-partisan organization. Polit- ical questions are always ruled out of order in all our post gatherings or encampments. This is as it should be; for while a very large per cent, of the men now in the G. A. R. are Republicans, still there are many of our best members who affili- ate with other political parties. They were true to the union, fought bravely for the suppression of the rebellion, are true to our order, and therefore ought to have their feelings respected while in the post and encampment, state and national. Tiie declaration of principles as originally adopted gives a very concise idea of what the G. A. R. pur- posed to accomplish. THE G. A. R 175 "The preservation of those kind and fraternal feel- ings which have bound together with the strong cords of love and aflfection the comrades in arms, of many battles, sieges and marches; to make these ties available in works by helping those who were in need of assistance; to make provision for the sup- port, care and education of soldiers' orphans and the maintenance of the widows of deceased soldiers; to protect and assist disabled soldiers, whether disabled by wounds, sickness, age or misfortune; for the establishment and defense of the late soldiers of the United States, morally, socially and politically; with a view to inculcate a proper appreciation of their services to the country, and to a recognition of such services and claims by the American people." In 1868 the word "sailors" was added, and a new section looking toward the preservation of loyalty to the constitution of the United States, and obedience to the laws of the land. For years this organization had a struggle, and accomplished very little that was of permanent value. But during the last decade it has accomplished much by way of securing ' 'help for the unfortunate," "homes for the helpless," "asylums for the orphans," "pensions for the needy" and is to-day at its best, numerically, financially and socially. The men who have not given their attention to it are largely numbered among those who, having formed other relations and assumed other responsi- bilities, arc likely to end their days without renew- 176 REMINISCENCES. ing the old time association. It is too late to enter, tain hope of recruiting them or mustering them into attendance. Another class were independent at first. They looked on the G. A. R. as a benevolent so- ciety and would have nothing to do with it; but age, infirmity and misfortune are driving them back to old friendships. But, alas ! they bring nothing but want with them. So 1 venture to say that the G. A. R. is at its best, and from this hour must wane from year to year, until the last form that stood between death and our nation's honor is housed in the narrow tomb. More and more this tie is appre- ciated ])y the survivors. Oh, that Ave might all learn to sing, Blest be the tie that binds Our hearts in Christian love; The fellowship of kindred minds Is like to that above. From sorrow, toil and, pain, And sin we may be free; And perfect love and friendship reign Through all eternity. ORGANIZATIONS, We share our mutual woes, Our mutual burdens bear, And often for each other flows The sympathizing tear. — Hymn. (CLXXVIIT.) CHAPTER XX. ORGANIZATIONS — CONTINUED. The first organization of ladies for active co-opera tion witli the Grand Army of the Repubhc was founded in the city of Portland, Maine, in 1869, and was known as Bosworth Relief Corps, It started forth full of hope, and after twenty-three j^ears of good work is now among the strongest corps in the land. Ten years later the first state organization was perfected in Fitchburg, Mass. This body of ladies found the same opposition shown others, and for years knocked at the doors of the national en campment for recognition. In 1881 the chaplain- in-chief presented a resolution to the national encampment which was adopted, and the ladies were allowed to add to their title, "Auxiliary to the Grand Army of the Republic." Many of the angelic spirits who visited and min- istered unto our sick soldiers in field and hospital had withheld their support; they now joined the or- ganization and brought to it strength and counsel such as made it a power in all parts of the land. In 1883 the Commander-in-Chief of the G. A. R. invited all the organizations at work in the interest of sol- (179) 180 REMINISCENCES. diers to send their reports to the national encamp- ment. This met with general favor and a national organization was perfected with this statement of their objects: "To specially aid and assist the Grand Army of the Republic to perpetuate the memory of their heroic deeds; to assist such Union veterans as need our help and protection, and to extend needful aid to their widows and orphans; to find them homes and employment, to assure them of sympathy and friendship; to cherish and emulate the deeds of all loyal nurses and all women who rendered loving ser- vice to their country in its hour of peril; to inculcate lessons of patriotism and love of country among our children; to discountenance whatever tends to weaken loyalty or retard the spread of universal liberty and equal rights to all men." This object is truly a noble one and ought to com- mand the encouragement and support of all true Americans. Their expenditures now reach up into the hundreds of thousands, and are still growing in favor and usefulness throughout the states. The ladies of the G. A. R. have also a very strong organ- ization and have done and are doing a good work. THE UNION veteran's LEAGUE. This league, composed of men who are members of the G. A. R., is very strong in some of the large cities. This is not so democratic as the other organ- izations. Membership is restricted to those who A NOBLE OBJECT. 181 were commissioned in the army and navy. Its objects are chiefly social and fraternal. THE UNION veteran's UNION. This is a smaller society, and declares its object to be general helpfulness to all soldiers and sailors of the Union army. THE veteran's RIGHTS UNION. A league organized in New York in 1882, has for its object the helping of Union soldiers into positions under the government for which they fought. There are other minor organizations that undertake the same work. THE SONS OF VETERANS. This society of the sons of the soldiers has a unique service, and their organization is destined to have a very large and permanent growth. More and more the veterans are to command the respect of the citizens of America. And in age and feeble- ness the sons will have occasion to minister unto, bury and care for the graves of their fathers. These several organizations have gathered into their posts, camps and departments many of the strongest men in the nation. William T. Sherman, Phil. Sheridan, Howard, Thomas, Schotield, John A. Logan, and a long list of prominent men have served in different ofiices, while ex- Presidents U. S. Grant, R. B. Hayes, James A. Garfield and Presi- dent Benj. Harrison have honored theG. A. R. with their presence and counsel. 182 REMINISCENCES. May the Sons of Veterans find hearty support and faithfully serve in their work of love until the last child who ever saw a Union soldier is gathered with his fathers. The rituals used in these different organizations call attention to the great goodness of God, under whose fostering care they perform their deeds of patriotism and benevc^lence. The halls ring with the songs found in the church hymnals and prayer books, and religious service is sought and listened to with the reverence of true men. "How should all men live?" "With trust in God, and in love with one an- other." "How should comrades of the Grand Army live?" "Having on the whole armor of God, that they may be able to withstand in the evil day." "For the last enemy that is to be destroyed is death." "We thank God who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." Friend, — "Ne'er think the victory won Nor lay thine armor down; The work of faith will not be done Till thou obtain the crown. Fight on, my soul, till death Shall bring thee to thy God; He'll take thee at thy parting breath To his divine abode." GENERALS. GENERAL SHERMAN. CHAPTER XXI. SOME OF THE GENERALS WHEN WITH THE BOYS. George B. McClellan was one of the handsomest men in all the army. He sat in the saddle with a grace and case coveted by all, always rode a full- blooded animal, wore a neatly-fitting, dark blue uniform, with highly polished boots that came nearly to his hips. He was among the first to appear m the morning, and when on a march he would dash through the Virginia mud until literally covered with the stickiest stuff' in existence; but when the next morning dawned he appeared in a clean suit just out of the pressing room of his tailor. No Union gen- eral was more popular among his men. Bonaparte was no more beloved by the French troops than was McClellan by the Potomac army. Notwithstanding the criticism of later days, the boys still cherish his memory. He has been culled a coward, a traitor, but those who knew him best know that he was neither. His failure can be accounted for without any such unkind criticism. , First, the great men in Washington did not give him the support he called for; they were afraid of him, and he knew it. That often paralyzed his movements. (185) 186 REMINISCENCES. Secondly, it took two years for the nation to see what they were fighting for, and not until the eman- cipation proclamation was issued did any general have noteworthy victories. Thirdly, we must admit that McClellan lacked that confidence in his own plans essential to success. Still we think of him most kindly. Wm. T. Sherman was a l)lunt, rough-and-ready boy in authority. While on a march or in camp with his men he was one of the boys. He rode a good horse, and took excellent care of him whde in camp, but was the most careless rider among the leadmg generals of the Union army. His eyes were on all things save those under his horse's feet. He held the reins with a careless grasp, trusting every- thing to his steed. When at the head of the army giving orders for their distribution he was a magnifi- cent figure, and commanded the attention and confidence of his officers and men. No man ever had the entire confidence of an army at all times more perfectly than did Wm. T. Sherman during his southern campaign and his march to the sea, and we shall look in vain for a series of battles in which more of genius, skill and valor were displayed than by Gen. Joe Johnson in his retreat, and Sherman in his advance and attacks. The civil life of W. T. Sherman added constantly to his popularity until the hour of his death, for he knew enough to keep out of politics, and to identify himself with the soldier boys in both the political parties. He will always be GEN. SHERIDAN. 187 referred to as "Uncle Billy.'' He was equal to the best intellectually and socially. Gen. Sheridan did not appear to advantage on foot. In the saddle he was a centaur. When astride of his horse the Shenandoah Valley hero gained in inches, for he was now no longer in stature above his sword belt than below it. Sheridan always sat well back, unconsciously leaning against the rear pommel of his military saddle. This attitude brought his feet a little in advance of the correct line, but it did not detract much from his appearance as a horseman. The fierce bundle of nerves that were encased in his small body would not permit Gen. Sheridan to long sit still, and he was always on a gallop, even when his army was lying idle and the pickets were silent. Maj. Gen. Custer was the beau ideal of a perfect horseman. He sat in his saddle as if born in it, for his seat was so very easy and graceful that he and his steed seemed one. At West Point he was at the head of all the classes in horsemanship, and delighted in being: on the tanbark. It is related of him that he could cut down more wooden heads on the gallop than any other one of the cadets. Unlike most ardent raiders during the war, Gen. Custer seldom punished his horses. It was only when the moment for charging arrived that he lessened rein for a headlong dash. Maj. Gen. Logan made a conspicuous figure in the saddle. His coal-black hair and tremendous mus- tache gave him a ferocious appearance, though in reality his disposition was a genial one. But he 188 REMINISCENCES. often had fits of passion and then his eyes blazed; but these ebullitions of temper were evanescent and they usually occurred on the battle-field. Logan was an exceedingly good horseman, his seat being firm, 3'et easy. When galloping he used to lean backward, his feet well to the front. At critical moments in an engagement he was wont to go at tremendous speed toward the threatened part of the line of battle. His hat jammed down over his eyes, his eyes bright and his mustache waving in the air gave him an odd look, while the terrific pace of his steed was appalling. He overcame every obstacle with ease, and it was a beautiful sight to see his horse go flying over fences, ditches or fallen trees, while the rider sat in the saddle with ease and ap- parently reckless indifference. The bridal garland falls upon the bier, The shadow of a crown that o'er him hung Has vanished in the shadow cast by death. So princely, tender, truthful, reverent, pure. Mourn ! That a worldwide empire mourns with you, That all the thrones are clouded by your loss. Were slender solace. Yet be comforted; For if this earth be ruled by perfect love. Then, after his brief range of blameless days, The toll of funeral in an angel ear Sounds happier than the merriest marriage bell. The face of Death is toward the Sun of Life, His shadow darkens earth; his truer name Is "Onward," no discordance in the roll. And march of that eternal harmony Whereto the world beats time, though faintly heard — Until the great hereafter mourn in hope. — Tennyson PEN PICTURES, GENERAL HANCOCK. CHAPTER XXII. PEN PICTURES. U. S. Grunt, the General, was at home in the sad- dle. From boyhood he had been a great admirer of good horses, and in the service he had a number of the best animals to be found. He was always kind in his treatment of them unless he felt that the occa- sion demanded sacrifice, then he looked upon the cause as first in importance and man and beast were secondary. Victory at all cost, was his motto. He sat in the saddle carelessly, sometimes awkwardly, yet firmly. He never seemed to care anything about his uniform or the insignia of his rank. When on the march he wore a flat, broad-brimmed hat, pulled down over his eyes, a rusty, seedy old coat he had worn since the fight of Vicksburg, gallopping along with an unlighted cigar firmly fixed in his teeth. It is said that in pursuing Lee after the evacuation of Richmond, he wore out six of his best horses m three days. He knew nothing among men but the con- quering of a persistent foe. Rev. D. Inglehart in a recent sermon said: "It requires only a casual glance to see that the department of his mind which was most largely de- (191) 192 REMINISCENCES. veloped and actively engaged was his will. His force of will was simply sublime. Mr. Lmcoln said of him, 'The great thing about him is cool persistence of purpose. He is not easily excited, and he has the grip of a bulldog. When he once gets his teeth ni, nothing can shake him off.' Gordon said to Lee, 'I think there is no doubt but that Grant is retreat- ing.' 'You are mistaken,' replied the Confederate chief; 'Grant is not retreating; he is not a retreat- ing man.' The great conqueror willed the capture of Donelson ; he willed the fall of Vicksburg, one of the greatest captures of modern times, and at the last he willed a million men across the field, and with them crushed the Confederacy. Napoleon m his palmiest days never had a greater sweep of wdl. For months he held death at arm's lens^th from him. He caught him and threw him to the earth, and put his feet upon him, and held him until he could finish his book, his labor of love. ' 'But the last enemy grew too strong for him, and he gave way and surrendered to the Supreme Will, avIio called him from the battlefields of earth to the plains of immortality. His sensibilities were large and intense. His love of country was a consuming aflfection. He inherited a patriotic spirit. His great-grandfather, Noah Grant, of Connecticut, was killed in the French war, and his grandfather Grant was a Lieutenant in the Revolutionaiy war. It is not surprising that this man should give himself at the first call to his coun- try. When Sherman had finished his march to the grant's magnanimity. 193 sea there was a proposition to elevate him to the same rank with Grant. Sherman wrote to Grant: 'I have written John Sherman to stop it. I would rather have you in command than any one else.' Grant replied: 'No one would be more pleased at yonr advancement than I, and if you should be placed in my position and 1 put in subordinate it would not change our relations in the least. I would n ake the same exertion to support you that you have done to support me, and would do all in my power to make your cause wan.' Great men, both of them, loving then' country supremely." He lived long enough to convince the South, whom he conquered, that he had no animosity in his heart, and no better tribute has ever been recorded of him than that of Hon. John S. Wise, of Virginia, when he said: "The victorious German, after twenty years of peace, may plead in vain for forgetfulness of Sedan, while the conquered Frenchman still hisses the word 'Revanche' beneath his breath. Twenty years of peace with us left no such bitterness behind. Pa- tience was Grant's greatest attribute. Four years of patient fighting scfiiced to conquer the arms of his adversary at Appomattox. Twenty years of patient charity, without any word of bitterness, brought also the surrender of their hearts at Mount Mc- Gregor. "Then it was the old Confederate veteran on his crutch stepped up to Grant's tomb. Then it was 194 REMINISCENCES. that he, for the last time, saluting the old flag that was dabbled with his blood, surrendered his heart to Grant without one feclinc" of re2:ret or sio;n of men- tal reservation. He was old and poor, travel-stained and battle worn. Yet all rrien uncovered in his presence, for Grant himself had certified that he was brave, long-suffering and honest in his faith. "His style was a rusty, broken bayonet, which in its day had served mayhap to dig the breastworks in the Wilderness and Spottsylvania. With trembling hands he traced in cramped characters the Imes, and the world drew near, in curiosity, to see what he had written: "'Here lies Grant, the only conqueror of Lee, and the greatest of Federal commanders. "'Grant, who never ceased to fight or spoke of peace on any terms save unconditional surrender. " 'Grant, who, when surrender came at last, left his own sword behind, and refused the sword of Lee. " 'Grant, whose first order at Appomattox was to feed his oft-tried foes from the short rations of his own troops. " 'Grant, whose tender heart gave us our old war horses to plant the first crops of peace. " 'Grant, who refused a triumphal review in our conquered capital. " 'Grant, who paroled us, and who, when we were indicted as traitors, demanded the dismissal of the prosecution or the acceptance of his resignation. HON. JOHN A. wise's TRIBUTE, 19o " 'Grant, who first cried: "The war is over," and ever afterward proclaimed it. " 'Grant, whose first words as President, were: "Let us have peace." " 'Grant, who for two terms sought to win us back to our allegiance by love and kindness. "'Grant, who, as firm as the firmest for the tri- umph of the Union, scorned bitterness and recrim- ination for the past. " 'Grant, from whose lips never issued a con- temptuous utterance against his old antagonists. " 'Grant, whose patient suflering in disease, whose fortitude in the hour of death conquered the last trace of our animosity, and gathered to him friend and foe alike, as even nobler than the world has known him. " 'Grant, who even in the hour of death, beckoned his old adversaries to his dying bedside that he might bless them. " 'Grant, whose name shall stand for all time, to all Americans, as a model of simplicity, bravery and magnanimity. " 'Grant, whose example shall prove;]an inspira- tion forever of love, fraternity and union.' "This is the tribute which Lee would have written, placed here by the hands of soldiers who followed Lee and fought Grant until they yielded to the power of overwhelming numbers and resources. "This is the tribute of those who felt the power of Grant's mailed hand in war, and survived to know 196 REMINISCENCES. the womanlike gentleness of his loving touch in peace. " AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, who succeeded General McClellan, was a modest, unassuming man pressed into the command of the army contrary to his judgment, and said after the defeat at Fredericksburg: "I am responsible for this failure." He was a great success with a corps, but a failure when given an army. We remember him as a dignified, gentlemanly' officer, JOSEPH HOOKER was a dashing, brave and brilliant commanding offi- cer, with a limit to his ability for handling men. He seemed at home with his corps, and always ready to move; but when given the Army of the Potomac he was bewildered at once, and at Chancellorsville made such mistakes as caused many to think of him as under the influence of liquor, which was not true — although it was so stated by temperance advocates of all parties at home and abroad. Let not this brave man's name be tarnished by any such slander. WINFIELD S. HANCOCK, always clean cut, neatly clad, soldierly in bearing, and commanding in person. His troops always ready to fight. His corps believed that W. S. Han- cock could whip any man in the field with a fan- chance. They knew nothing else but to conquer or die. He was a typical commander of men. AFFECTING INCIDENT. 197 OLIVER O. HOWAKD was the first General we ever saw, and the impres- sion made by him in a speech before the State House in Augusta, Maine, had much to do with our course in the army. He could pray or tight, as the case de- manded. Rev. T. Gerrish tells of an incident just before Chancellorsville, when two boys, brothers, were bunking together: "Jimmie was very sick, and his brother sat by his side for a few moments taking down his farewell for home and friends, when Jimmie seemed very rest- less. " 'AVhat is it, Jim?' said his brother. " 'I wonder if I am all right for the general's in- spection over there? I wish I had some one to pray for and with me.' "At this time I hastened to the headquarters, and inquired for General Hosvard. "I told him my errand. He caught his hat and followed me through the dark and mud for more than half a mile. Poor Jim was very low, yet he knew his brother and the General, who fell on his knees, and oh! how lie prayed. Jim died. The General attended and officiated as Chaplain at his funeral." Time and space forbid our speaking of Thomas, Meade, and others, whom we came to know, love and respect. How sleep the brave, who sink to rest By all their country's wishes blest ! When Spring, with dewy fingers cold Returns to deck their hallowed mould She there shall dress a sweeter sod Than fancy's feet have ever trod. By fairy hands their knell is rung, By forms unseen their dirge is sung. There Honor comes, a pilgrim gray, To bless the turf that wraps their clay. And freedom shall a while repair To dwell a weeping hermit there ! — Colli ns. (cxcviii.) CHAPTER XXIII. MEMORIAL DAY. One of the beautiful customs that has grown out of the war is that of decorating the graves of the dead soldiers with flowers — nature's most appropriate oflering to valor — and with the stars and stripes — the flag for whose honor, and beneath whose folds, they laid down their lives. It is a national holiday, and in its pious observ- ance, multitudes of citizens, among whom are the best and the fairest, repair to the cemeteries where sleeps the dust of the nation's heroes. Surviving comrades fail not each recurring year to add this new tribute to the memory of their former companions in arms. Only the number of these is constantly decreas- ing, as one by one, weary with the march of life, they halt and join the host that, after the din and strife of battle, are now so quietly reposing " In the low, green tenti Whose curtain never outward swings." It is a fitting tribute to departed valor, and an ap- propriate recognition of the service done for the nation, that the graves of the soldiers should be thus distinguished, and that in eloquent speech their deeds (199) 200 REMINISCENCES. of heroism and self-sacrifice should be recounted. In harmony with this purpose I take pleasure in presenting to my readers the following: MEMORIAL DAY ADDRESS DELIVERED BY COL. JAMES A. SEXTON. Once a year we join in the beautiful and solemn ceremony of decorating the earthly homes of our dead. We strew the choicest flowers and evergreens upon the grave of the Union soldier, not simply be- cause he was brave and met fate unflinchingly, but because of his devotion to an ennobling principle, and the exalted ideas of right and justice; for he fought to maintain our national existence, threatened by the most wanton and monstrous rebellion in the history of the world. We love and revere the memory of "our dead," because they fought in the cause of their country and in behalf of a higher liberty than any people, ancient or modern, ever before enjoyed. England erects towering monuments to her Marl- boroughs, her Wellingtons and her Nelsons; France builds triumphal arches to celebrate her victories, and to perpetuate the fame of her Napoleons. But America alone divides her post-mortem honors im- partially among those who gave their lives for the Republic. I rejoice to see the stalwart private soldier hon- ored as he is, and his virtues extolled, by the statues HONORS TO THE BRAVE. 201 erected in so many of our public squares and cem- eteries. It is a noble tribute to this ideal orovern- o ment "of the people, for the people, by the people," that prompts the decoration of the graves of the common soldiers and the erection of statues and monuments to them, as well as to the Grants, Logans, Shcridans and Farraguts, "vvho won the higher rank and bore the increased responsibilities. To love our country, to sing her praises, to defend her rights and institutions against enemies from within, or foes from without, and to endeavor to per- petuate the blessings vouchsafed to us by the organic law of the land, would seem to be but a natural im- pulse, a sincere desire, as easy to explain as the law of self-preservation. For none more than you, fellow soldiers, can keenly appreciate the fact that the blessings of peace are largely dopendent on our readiness for war; that the safety of the law-abiding citizen is the natural sequence of our ability to promptly repress the wanton and lawless. For nothing tends more directly to keep the passions of the turbulent and reckless in proper subjection than the conviction that the government has the power to suppress crime, and will use it intelligently, fear- lessly and energetically to that end. It is one of the great aims of the Grand Army of the Republic, as it is its cherished privilege, to in- struct the rising generation in the patriotic lessons of war, so that posterity may not forget what they owe to the deeds of valor and devotion that pre- 202 REMINISCENCES. served the Union from dismemberment and inevita- ble dissolution. Were it otherwise, our beloved coimtry and its cherished institutions would soon fall victims to the insidious treason of the conspirator, the vile stratagem of the political mercenary, and the corrupting influences of the spoils-hunter. Thus, while old soldiers live and meet around theu' campfires, the kindling and keeping alive of pure patriotism will be of comparatively easy ac- complishment, for there are now, and will be for many y(>ars to come, too many battle-scarred soldiers, too many maimed ones, too many with shattered con- stitutions and enfeebled health, who can still tell the thrilling story of the part they took in the w.-ir, to permit this generation to forget the price })aid for our restored Union. But how will it be when once this nol)le band is called home to the long rest, the last tattoo and taps sounded, when our youth will bo deprived of the impressive object lesson which the lives of patriots and defenders of the right so abundantly furnish? Is it not therefore eminently fitting that the recol- lections of those memorable days be kept alive in the popular mind and conscience by some appropri- ate, unfailing means, such as the devotion of one day annually to the decoration of the graves of our heroic dead ? Do not look upon this assertion as unnecessary and uncalled for; man's mind is apt to fail, his memory APPROPRIATE ^xEMORIALS. 203 is prone to give out under certain contingencies, and a gentle remnidcr is not always amiss. This fact was clearly illustrated in the early days of 1861-G2, when the patriotic people were encour- aging the young and strong to enlist in the army of the Union You remember how we Averc over- whelmed with flattering promises. The father was told that should misfortune or death overtake him, his wife and children would not sufi'er, but bo kindly cared for. The son of the widowed mother was promised that she would be looked after during his absence. The rich man approached the poor and said: "Go, save the Union, and on your return you shall meet a hero's welcome and ample reward." We were told that we would be honored with civil offices, and promised that losses sustained while away from home fighting for flag and country, would be made good, and lastly, the dear young women, no less patriotic than their devoted lovers, said: "Go forth in defense of Union and liberty, and we will be faithful and constant in our love, and when you return will transform you into happy and worthy husbands. " And comrades, do you remember when their dear arms were aroun