^ AL I llNK 1 RSITY I milAH'T 3 9002 07 1 1 6330 l&&k-*"i'^ Cn-r^ - .'^'' ~ s- lfeS,;&-/.f, Co /y ¦ /^/ A.^^ en.^6e(/^yC^j/y ^Qv>t~aji- (^^^^^JP^/f /CjP>66nx^-^ Ot .^. jm LETTERS OF Seorge E. Chamberlih, Who fell in the Service of his Country near Gharlestown, Va., August 21st, 1864. (LIEUTENANT-COLONEL 1ST AETILLEEY, llTH VERMONT VOLUNTEERS.) "We live in deeds, not years; in thoughts, not breaths; In feelings, not in figures on a dial. We should count time by heart throbs. He most lives Who thinks the most, feels the noblest, acts the best. Bailey's Festus. SPRINGFIELD, ILL.: • W. EOKKEK'S PUBLISHING HOUSE. 1883. Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1883, by Mrs. Caroline C. Lutz, in the ofiloe of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. iONTENTS. CHAPTER I. PAGE. Letters from August 7, 1854. to May 2, 1856, inclusive— Teaching school in Burke, Vermont— Attending school in Lyndon and St. Johnsbury— Removal of the Home from Lyndon to St. Johns- bury— Extracts from Diary and Journal 1 CHAPTER II. Letters from August 31, 1856, to July 18, 1857, inclusive— The long (winter) vacation spent in the counting room of Chamberlin & Fletcher— A temptation to abandon his college course— Narrow escape from drowning in an unsuccessful attempt to save a class mate from a watery grave 21 CHAPTER III. Letters from September 6, 1857, to July 18, 1858, inclusive- The winter spent in teaching at Concord, Vermont— Extract from a lecture on "Wealth of Mind," delivered to the church at Concord Corner, February 2d, and in the church at West Concord, February Hth— Edward at Hanover— Plans for spending the summer vacation at Calais, Maine .v. 36 CHPAPTER IV. Letters from August 9, 1858, to July 10, 1859, inclusive- An account of the summer's visit in Calais, Maine— The winter spent in Cham- Derlin & Fletcher's counting room— Trip to Boston— June 30, 1859, his twenty-flrst birthday 49 CHAPTER V. Letters from August 3, 1859, to July 19, 1860, inclusive— Trip Home for the Agricultural Fair in September— Mary at Abbott Female Sem inary, Andover, Massachusetts— Edward in Boston attending Mercantile School— The winter spent at Dartmouth in the study of French and German— An acceptance of Uncle and Aunt Edgell's Invitation to spend the coming Year with them— Gradu ation from College July 26, I860— Summer Vacation at Home 77 IV CONTENTS. CHAPTER VI. PAGE. Letters from September 24, 1860, to June 17, 1861, inclusive— Journey to St. Louis with Father, via Niagara Falls—First Impressions of the West— Mutterlngs of War— His Political Views- Second Visit of Father to the West— The taking of Camp Jackson— A trip into Iowa— Mary at Andover 108 CHAPTER VII. Ijettersfrom July 29, 1861, to June 30, 1862, inclusive— Return to St. Johnsbury— A Summer of Recreation— A Public Declaration " On the Side of God and Religion "—Death of Grandfather Chase- Goes to Cambridge August 29— Edward goes to California— Deter mination to Enter the Army— Return to St. Johnsbury 187 CHAPTER VIII. Letters from September 11, 1862, to September 24, 1863, inclusive- Raises a Company In St. Johnsbury, and is elected Captain, August 12— Promoted to Major, August 26— Regiment ordered to Fort Lincoln, in the Defences of Washington— Illness in Novem ber—Most kindly cared for at the Residence of Hon. John C. Rives— A Visit of Two Months from Mother— The Regiment con verted into Heavy Artillery— Removes to Fort Totten— Service in Military Courts In Washington— His Marriage Engagement and Arrangements for its Consummation 231 CHAPTER IX. I,otters! from October 11, 1863, to August 21, 1864, Inclusive — Marriage in New York, October 1— Four Days in St. Johns bury— Return to Fort Totten with his Wife— Mary in St. Louis- Carrie in WlUard Female Seminary, Troy, N. Y. — Moved to Fort Lincoln, March 29— Regiment ordered into active Service May 12— Assigned to the Second Brigade, Second Division, Sixth Corps of the Army of the Potomac— Down the Valley of the Potomac- Return to the Defences of Washington, July 12— Pursuit of Early in the Shenandoah Valley — Second Return to the Defences of Washington, July 25— Immediate Return to the Shenandoah Valley 294 CHAPTER X. Extracts from "The Vermont Brigade in the Shenandoah Valley"— Letter from Colonel Gardiner to Mrs. George E. Chamberlin- Let ter from Colonel Warner to Mrs. George E. Chamberlin— Contri bution by Rev. Arthur Little 309 Tribute to the Memory of Alexander Gardiner. EDICftTION. My Dear Mother: In accordance with your long cherished desire, these letters, so precious as records of the life and testimonies of the love of our George, are now placed in a form more enduring and accessible, both for ourselves and for our children, than they could ever be in manuscript. You will perhaps find some balm for your stiU sorrow ing heart if this self-written history tends to establish your grandchildren in those principles of truth and right which characterized your first-born son. It will comfort you to make them acqliainted with his virtues, and to receive from them a tribute of devotion to his memory and sympathy for his early death. It may be, too, that we shall find here such a view of his life, in the fullness of its development, as to realize some consolation for that loss which we have hitherto l6oked upon as unmitigated by any considerations ; for here we see him as a man among men, a master of him self and of circumstances, a servant of God, and a mar tyr to the cause of humanity. His qualities were of that sterling kind which take men to the fore-front^ — sound to the core, clear-headed, sincere, persevering, methodical and enthusiastic. Let it not add bitterness to our grief^ but rather soften it in tender pride, to feel that, had his life been spared, his name would have been beside those of some of his chosen friends, honored and respected throughout our country. ' VI DEDICATtOU. Occupying as he did, in those by-gone days, the position of elder brother, adviser and instructor, it is now indeed difficult to realize that he was cut off at the early age of twenty-six, his birthday being June 30, 1838. His neatly-preserved files of letters show a regular correspondence, from the year 1848, with many whose names have now become sacred, but of those written by himself we have none earlier than 1854, when he was sixteen years old. I have inserted these, notwithstanding their immaturity in composition, because they refer to events in his life of which we younger sisters remember little or nothing, and also because they show how firmly laid in his youth were the foundations of filial duty, the love of home, self-dependence and God-dependence. These simple letters to the home circle, then, are labeled a "Memorial." Only ourselves know how little is needed any outward memorial of that dear one whose love has never faded from our hearts, and is associated with every thought of earlier years; but the very ten derness of that love has made it difficult for us to acquaint our children with him whom we hope they will admire and emulate, and they will learn much of him here which we could not relate to them. It would have been easy to make up this memorial volume of eulogies written by those whose names would secure attention both in New England and the West ; it is difficult for me not to dwell upon my brother's almost ideal fulfillment of his relations as son, brother, friend, husband and patriot; to refrain from describing the manly form, dignified bearing, and genial disposition, which commended him to the choicest circles wherever he was,— but what can I say of these things that you do not know and feel even more deeply than I, or that these letters do not say far more impressively than my words could do ? DEDICATION. VII A phase of his character, however, which does not appear in these pages, is revealed in his letters to his wife. It is there, in words too sacred for repetition, that I have found a revelation of his ambitions, his religious faith and aspirations, the deptli and tenderness of his heart, — all these by contrast making his self-sacrifice appear so much the more heroic. There it is that the deep and strong foundation-stones of his character are seen under the tender lights of love and romance, and the christian scholar and soldier appears with the added graces of poet and knight. Let not the mother of such a son feel that she has lived and loved and suffered in vain. That you may find in this book, the offering of your grateful children on your seventy-fifth birth-day, all the comfort and happiness you have anticipated, is the ear nest wish of Your loving daughter, Carrie. Lincoln, III., April 29, 1883. Chapter I. EARLY LETTERS. (1857-1858.) "Your last rhythm will need your earliest key-note." Letters from August 7. 1854, to May 2, 1856, inclusive- Teaching School in Burke, Vermont— Attending School in Lyndim and St. Johnsbury— Removal of the Home from Lyndon to St. Johnsbury— Extracts from Diary and Journal. The reading of these Lyndon letters will recall a picture of the home of our early childhood, with its beloved river at the door, the meadow beyond, the bridge, the mills, the more distant hills and woods, the unbroken circle, the merry score of cousins. Here happiness grew apace on great bare rocks on high hills, and steep banks of yel low sand were fertile with delight. Truly "Happy places have grown holy; It ye wont where once ye went. Only tears would fall down slowly. As at solemn sacrament." TO MOSES CHASE,' ESQ., CALAIS, MAINE. Lyndon, August 7, 1854. Dear Grandfather : Mother said yesterday it had been a great while since she had written you, and that she felt really guilty for delaying so. long, and moreover, that she wanted me to write you the first time I had. I now embrace the oppor tunity, thinking that if I can write anything interesting, it will be pleasing to her, and you also, — I hope so, at least. 2 EARLY LETTERS. Aunt Louise Edgell, father's sister, from St. Louis, Mo., is here. She has had very bad health for the past two or three years, and has come East in hopes of recov ering. She has been at Saratogai three or four weeks. She thinks, however, she gains faster here. Mr. Edgell will, probably in September or October, be on here to accompany her back. Eeports from him at St. Louis say there has been no rain there for six weeks, and that it is the dryest time ever known in that city. The cholera has raged more fearfully than was ever known before. Aunt Louise has one son with her aged eleven, and one at home aged eight or nine. She was much concerned about him before the cholera abated. Her little boy had a very narrow escape from being drowned the other day. He was drawn out by a boy not much older than himself. He is now at Irasburgh, Vermont, with Uncle Cooper. Ellen Chamberlin, Myron Chamberlin's daughter, is going to St. Louis to stay with them a year. We had a very pleasant meeting in Boston last spring; but it would have been much pleasanter if you had been there, and certainly we expected to see you with the rest, when we went away. Hattie is very well contented, I think, and likes the school very well. Emily Chase came home from South Hadley last night. She will stay at home about six weeks. Ada is going back with her, to take a course of study there. I believe they intend to send for Charlotte when the others go away. Things have not altered much since you were here. I beheve all the buildings that have been erected are seven houses, one store, and a carriage shop. Do you remember the time you caught me out in the old shed, chopping an old granite stone with the axe? EARLY LETTERS. 3 I guess I do, very well ; and the time you lost your knife, and you said you'd give a quarter if I'd finci it; but I didn't find it. Since father has been engaged in business at St. Johns bury, I have been there over a year. I like the mercan tile business very well. We have finished haying. That is the most pleasur able work to me there is on a farm. I must say that I do love to go out in the morning and mow all the hot fore noon, and rake and get in the hay in the afternoon. I intend to go to school this fall. Shflll study, proba bly, Latin, Greek, algebra and geometry. Shall read Cicero for Latin with Hattie. I havn't told you anything about that baby of ours yet. I expect it is about the neat est thing you ever saw. She is now two and one-fourth years old, and a plaything for us all. She had her arm broken last week by accident, but it is now splintered and doing well. She has been on the bed by my side ever since I began to write, and has been just as stiU as a mouse ; she has been asleep a part of the time ; she can talk pretty well. I hope you will write soon, and tell me how uncle Munroe's little girl is, that is with you, and whether she misses her father and mother any or not. And I should really be very much pleased to receive a few lines from Aunt Minerva and Uncle Daniel ; please tell them. The folks are all well, and send love to all of you. Give my love to uncle, and aunt, and cousin, and reserve much for yourself from Your affectionate grandson. P. S. Mother sends her best love again, and when her company gets away she is going to write you. I know it has been almost impossible for her to write lately, having no one to help her but her own girls. A good girl can't be hired in this region. G. E. C. 4 EARLY LETTERS. Just here his diary bears witness to the value of "a word spoken in due season." Subseqent to this date, the subject of religion is mentioned almost daily in the diary of 1854, and I subjoin a few of the many reflections it contains : Monday, Adoust21,1854.— Carried Uncle and Aunt Edgelfto St. Johns bury to-day. Aunt Edgell talked beautifully concerning religion. I am resolved that from this day my conduct shall be changed. Read the Bible and prayed to God in my room at retiring. Tuesday, 22d.— Can't keep the subject of religion out of my mind. Can see how overloaded I am with sin, and am resolved more firmly that my heart must be changed. Read the Bible considerably to-day; Its truths are blessed. * "I am leaving off all my by- words, and trying to live more like a Chris tian. I read the Bible, and pray to God every night. That season Is a most holy one." "I find that the subject of religion afTords an excellent topic for thought while one is busy at work." "I have found much time to read the Bible to-day; its truths grow more precious continually." "I pray God that I may never give up again to the strivings of the devil, but adhere to God's truths forever." "Recited in Cicero for the (Irst time. May God help us in all our studies not to forget the study of His word and His truths." TO MOSES CHASE, ESQ. Lyndon, September 9, 1854. (Saturday.) Dear Grandfather: I feel constrained to say, in the first place, that I am very much obliged for that nice, long letter. It really did me good, it was so long and full of interest. I wish I could receive one like it every day. I received one from Aunt Mobley night before last. The fall term of the academy commenced last Tuesday ; there are now seventy scholars,— there will probably be more on Mon day. Mary, Edward, Caroline and myself attend. My studies are Latin, Greek and Algebra. Hattie attends EARLY LETTERS. O also. She and I are reading Cicero together. I never heard her recite before this term, and I should judge by what I have heard, that she is an excellent scholar. Ellen Chamberlin (Myron's daughter) has gone to St. Louis with Aunt Louise. She (Aunt Louise) was much better when she left, than when she came. Uncle Edgell came, two or three weeks ago, at about twelve o'clock Saturday night, and left at noon the next Mon day with Aunt Louise, making a stop of a day and a half with us. He was looking very poor and thin, as though he had been hard at work. He says that they shall be on again next summer. Ada Chase is going to South Hadley to school, in about two weeks, with Emily. The advice your letter contained, I never can have too much of, — it can never be too fully appreciated by me or any one else. I must confess my ignorance of the Holy Scriptures ; but dear Grandfather, I hope and trust that I have experienced a change of late for the better. I am trying to become more acquainted with God's word and the religion of Jesus Christ, and to live up to the princi ples taught there ; and the more I study, think and medi tate upon that subject, the sweeter and dearer it becomes to me. Mother calls me to supper, and I think I will close. Our family and friends.are all well. Give my love to all the friends, and may God bless you and take care of you, is the wish and prayer of Your affectionate grandson. Burke, December 22, 1854. Dear Cousin Ellen : I received your letter last Saturday night, and meant to answer before, but could not. I began to think you had forgotten me and most everybody else, because you put off writing so long, — but let that go, however. 6 early letters. I am now in the town of Burke, in the dining-room of Mr. L. W., with two of my scholars at the same table, — one a young lady of seventeen, who is reading the Lamp lighter, the other a young gentleman of eighteen, who is ciphering in Burnham's arithmetic. Pour more are in the room, and one who does not go to school. My school is situated about one mile west of Burke Hollow, where H. S. Carpenter teaches. * » * I have twenty-six scholars. Another one of my scholars has just come into the house ; his name is James Cheney ; his age is twenty. I havn't been home but once a week, and calculate to go to-morrow night. 1 have a warm school house, but not very handsome. Satwrday Morning. Carpenter came in, just as I was writing the last word, with one of his scholars, and spent the evening. When he got ready to go home, all hands went up above the school house and had a grand "slide down hiU," and called at the school house in the meantime. Wasn't that great ? Two schoolmasters with some of their scholars, out slid ing down hill after nine o'clock at night, — colder than Greenland, too. It is grand, good sleighing now. I have been up to the school house this morning and built a fire, (the second time I have built it since I came here). To night I expect Ed. up after me, and I am going over to the Hollow and get Carpenter and carry him home, and he is going to bring me up Monday morning. But it is school- time ; the children have all gone, and I must go. I may not get time to finish this 'tiU next week. It is now a quarter to nine. * * * EARLY LETTERS. 7 Tuesday Evening, December 26. 0, Ellen ! I wish you had been where I have, since I wrote this letter, or part of a letter. Well, I suppQse you ask, in the first place: "When? Where? What did you do? It must be something surprising." I will tell you. Ed. came up after me Saturday, and brought a note from Hattie, saying I must be in attendance at the "Christmas Tree," at Uncle Chase's, Monday night, and that I musn't keep school Monday ; but I told the scholars there would be school, after meditating a long time. Having agreed to carry Carpenter home, I drove over to the Hollow and then went home. Sunday I went to church twice. Mr Berry read. Monday morn ing I took the old mare, and got Mr. Bundy's sleigh, and started for Burke, with the intention of coming back after school. I went up by C.'s and took him in. I got there and put the horse in the barn, went up to the school house and did my day's work ; then went over and got C. again, and started tor home. We got as far as the Bugbee tavern, and stopped to water the horse, and while we were there we saw a hard fight. Two men came along drunk, and one insulted a man there, and before they got through,* one fell to the ground senseless. He looked ter rible ; his face was very much scarred ; his nose bled as though he was bleeding to death. Isn't it too bad to see men pound each other when under the influence of that enemy to all men, "rum." Well, when that was over, we started and got home a little after dark. Then I spent an hour or so in buying Christmas presents. Then for the Christmas tree at Uncle Chase's. It was after seven when I got there, but they had not opened the room where the tree was. Very soon the rooih was opened (the large dining-room) and lo ! 8 EARLY LETTERS. there was a fir tree about eight feet high, perfectly loaded with presents. We all stood and looked at it awhile, and then it was announced that the gifts were to be distributed. It might be weU now to tell you who was there. Well, there were all of our family except father ; Mrs. Brown, and Horace and Willie Ide, Abby Chase, Ed. Mattocks, Mary Ide and Emma. I believe that was all. Ann Gaboon took the presents off the tree and handed them to Henry, and he passed them to the owners. Perhaps you would like to know what some of the presents were, — mine were as follows : A copy of Henry Kirkwhite's Poems, very nicely bound, a hymn book, a nice little pin-case filled with pins, a bottle of cologne, and two little bags of con fectionery. Mary's were a small writing desk, one or two books, and I don't know what else. She vnU tell you. Hattie's were Fanny Fern's last work, a nice pin cushion, a pair of socks, a sewing bird, a gold pen with silver case, and other things too numerous to mention, and the pre sents of the others I can't remember, or can't stop to enu merate. The mothers of the other boys that were there, sent their presents down, and they were received from the tree. This morning I came up with Mr. C, and now I am on straight work again. I expect one of Mr. Watson's boys will go down to Lyndon and carry me, Friday night ; then we are going to St. Johnsbury Saturday, and back again Monday morning. * * * I think I shall come out and see you after school is done. Wouldn't it be grand if I could come out there ? I have not written Ada yet. We got more than half through Cicero last term. Hattie is reading Sallust this winter to Henry, although she goes to school. She said she was not going to read there alone, and Henry, too, is a little more thorough than Berry. EARLY LETTERS. 9 Mary is in fine health and spirits, and seems to be enjoy ing herself very well. Edward is not very well. Catty is perfectly well, and Lilly is the same. She is not the same child she was when you went away, — she can talk a great deal more, and is more cunning. I am sure you will not know her when you get back. I wish you were here to come up to Burke some Saturday to my school. Hattie and Mary have been up. I am to have an exercise in writing to-morrow evening, commencing at half-past six. * » * Your affectionate cousin, George. The following mention of the school is found in his diary : Sunday, December 3, 1854.— Came up to Burke with father to Mr. Goodell's, to teach school this winter. Commence to-morrow. Monday, 4th.— School commenced to-day under favorable auspices. Seventeen scholars. All appear well-behaved, good and kind. May God help me in every duty, and give me good success in the whole. Monday. January 1, 1855.— To-day commences the new year, and with it may God give me resolution and faith to pursue an upright and honorable course in life, and do all things in His foar and to His glory. May I continue to love Him more and more, and servo Him better each day I live, and will He give me a good degree of success in my under takings, and bless me and make me a true Christian; and In blessing me, will He bless all whom I love and for whom I should pray. Wednesday, January 31,1855.- « * * My .school has only three weeks to keep after this. It will close the 23d of February, and may God give me success that I may finish without trouble, and will He give me a greater faith in Him, from whom all blessings flow. * * * Thursday, February 22, 1855.— Closed my winter school to-night. I was glad I was enabled to go through with it without trouble, and I would not forget to be thankful to God for my success, for He is the source from which all blessings flow, and the author of all good ; and will He enable me to be more thankful to Him, and to love Him more and serve Him better as I grow older. The scholars all seemed to feel quite bad to have school close, and I must confess that I, as the teacher, felt a little bad to take leave of those who had been so long under my instruction. I gave them some cards as tokens of remembrance, and talked to them some. It has been a very pleasant day. 10 . EARLY LETTERS. Lyndon, March 21, 1855. De.\r Cousin Ellen : I wrote a half sheet to Aunt Louise a week ago, intend ing to write you the next day, and send the letters to gether ; but I have let it run along 'till now, and I am afraid auntie will think I don't want her to come so bad after all, if I let her letters lie a week. To tell the truth, Ellen, I'm considerably engaged just at present. I suppose, of course, you have heard of the removal of the family of Ephraim Chamberlin, from the goodly town of Lyndon to the so-called city of St. Johnsbury. Yes, my home is in St. Johnsbury, or at least the family are there. I can hardly call it my home. I say the family are at St. Johnsbury, but I mean a part or most of them. Mary is in Bradford ; she has gone there to take lessons in painting this spring ; She went last Monday. And I, where am I ? Why, Ellen, I am sitting before the old secretary, standing in the southwest corner of your mother's dining room, writing to you, and wishing you were here. E. A. Barker sits at the same secretary with me, writing a letter to his sister. Behind us sits your own dear mother mending something. I don't know what it is,— (I presume you would if you should see it.) And you ask what I am here for ? Why, I am boarding here and going to school. Yes, it is so. I got homesick (or sick of home) at St. Johnsbury, and influenced the folks to let me come off up here to school. I came up a week ago to-day. I wrote Aunt Louise's letter at St. Johnsbury, and shall put it with this and send it. I might have sent it, I suppose, as soon as I wrote it, but then I thought I would write you much sooner, but I have been full of business in getting started in school. This afternoon I read a composition, and it scared me almost to death. We are having a very good early letters. 11 school, — ^there are about seventy scholars. Mr. Berry has no assistant, and it makes it very hard for him, though he has Hattie hear a few of the classes, — the French class, geography, and some others. She makes a first-rate school ma'am. And, Ellen, to tell the truth, the girls, taken on an average, are the handsomest lot I ever knew to be in the academy, — there are but very few that I have to sit and look at and hate, as I used to. We boys are going to have grand times, I expect. Shouldn't you think, take Stone, Barker and George, there might be consider able done ? There are quite a number of young men this term, — more than common. We have got up a pretty good lyceum. Mr. Berry is very good this term. Stone, Barker, Peck and myself go in at eight o'clock to recite in Cicero. I recite two lessons, — one in review with them, and one alone, over in the back part of the book. I study, besides, Greek, algebra and geometry. I closed my school in good shape on the 23d of Febru ary, and I was quite glad to get through. I had one spel ling school. * ¦* * But I almost forgot to say some thing concerning my growing old so fast. You must be pretty homesick to regard your departure to be six years ago. I win keep my whiskers trimmed down close, alone for your sake. My eyes are much better, and I think I shall not have to wear my glasses. As for being a digni fied schoolmaster, I'm sure I don't feel much like it ; for since I commenced this letter, I have had from ten to fif teen scuffles with Stone and Barker, and one or two pretty hard laughs with your mother. I havn't grown a bit since you went away, and, of course, I remain (by hypothesis) the same little delicate fellow. But I tell you now, if I didn't put on the dignity up there in Burke ! But that's 12 EARLY LETTERS. all gone now, and my duty's done, and I'm glad of it, for I like nothing better than to be a boy among the boys, (and the girls, too). We had a great time here a week ago last Monday night. It was the last meeting of the knitting society. The girls of the society got it up. It was held in the hall. There were about seventy there. Eefreshments were provided for all, — they consisted of popped com, nuts, candy and raisins. The girls were the inviters, the boys the in vitees, a little contrary to the usual custom. I came up from St. Johnsbury on purpose. But have I got down to here ? Why, I havn't begun yet, hardly. * * * Thursday, March 22d.— Got mad with my Greek to-day, and threw my book down stairs. I don't know about studying It any more. I may com mence again, though. Friday. 23d.— * * * Mr. Berry feels quite bad about my dropping Greek, and urges mo quite hard to take it up again. Monday, 26th.— * * * Concluded to take up Greek 'again. Talked considerable about going to college, with father and mother, when I was down. I have not come to a very definite conclusion yet, though I am Inclined to favor the idea. St. Johnsbury, April 28, 1855. (Saturday night.) My Dear Cousin Ellen : Your good and long letter came to hand in due season, and I have put off answering it longer than I meant to have done, but existing circumstances have delayed me. Quite a change has taken place in my affairs since then. I was then what I always had been, viz : a Lyndonite ; EARLY LETTERS. 13 but, alas, now I am a St. Johnsburyite. I left Lyndon for good three or four days ago, for the reason that I was needed here. Father has to spend most of his time at the store, and it needs some one this spring to fix the garden, set out some trees, and various other little things, you know, incident to the place. We have been digging a well recently — finished it to-day — and in drawing water to-night, the chain came apart, and left "the old oaken bucket" down twenty feet in the ground; and upon that, father and I fixed a rope with a short stick on the end, and straddled master Ed. Carter onto it, and sent him down ; soon he came up again, bucket in hand, safe and sound. Our well curb is similar to the one on Wing's well. I wish I could give you some description of our house. WeU, let's see : I'm in the dining-room. Our old secretary (at which I am now sitting) stands at the south end of this. By the side of the secretary, on the left, is the door into mother's bedroom ; on the east side, near this, is down cellar ; next is door into the hall ; next opens into the sitting room, where father and mother are sitting now. Father is reading aloud. Twenty years ago to-day, or to-morrow, they were married. Next, on the north end, is door into the kitchen, also cupboard and clothes-press. The house fronts to the east, has a very pretty piazza, and on the whole is a nice place. All are contented. I had a letter from Mary the first of the week. She is well, and I think has enjoyed herself there finely this spring. I think she will come home next week. About my studying law, — that was fun. I have no notion of doing that. I meant to write that note so you would take it in fun, but I guess 'twas some blind. When you come home, you will find new neighbors all about you. * * * And I don't know as your home is 14 EARLY LETTERS. going to be there either, — but I can't judge as to that. I think the decision hangs suspended in your mother's mind, not knowing which way to turn. I almost hope it will not be so, still I have no doubt of her finding in him a good and faithful husband. She wants you here very much. We are just beginning to have some warm weather here now. We have planted a few potatoes and sowed a few peas in the garden.- The grass is not much green. I don't think I shall go to school this summer,— I've got a little tired of it. Father did talk a good deal of going out West the 1st of May, and did expect to, but has given it up for the present. He may go out the last of May or first of June. He was going on business. Father and mother have gone to bed, and it is now after ten, and I must say good-night. (Sunday afternoon.) It is not in accordance with my habits to write letters on the Sabbath, but I had a headache and a lame back, and on the whole, I thought I wouldn't attend church this afternoon, and under these circumstances I have been induced to wind off this letter, having but very little more to say. All have gone to church but myself. It is a very pleasant day, — no snow to be seen now. I am thinking what pleasant times we shall have when you come home, and come down to stay with us a good long while. I guess Aunt Louise will have to give you up, as your mother seems intent upon your coming. 0 ! how I wish she would come, too. Try and see if you can't influence her to come. All are well at Lyndon, I believe, except those of whom I have spoken. Hattie is as lively as ever. I suppose she will go to South Hadley next fall. I shall hate to have her go off. The bank at Lyndon will issue bills in about a week. Uncle Chase is president ; Ed. Gaboon, cashier. EARLY LETTERS. 15 Tell Charlie if he will come here this summer that we wUl have some good times, — such as riding about, going in swimming, etc., — as I am not going to school. Much love to uncle and aunt, and the boys. Be sure and have them come on this summer. Tell them I believe it is their duty to do so. Write very soon, if you please, and believe me, as ever, Your affectionate cousin. St. Johnsbury, September 18, 1855. Dear Cousin Ellen : This is the day, I believe, when you said the term of the Seminary commenced ; and I can picture you there, amongst a flood of strange faces and stern-looking teach ers, arranging your affairs for the coming year. I see your look is anxious, as you think you have left the home of friends and kin to pass a year in pouring over your books, making new acquaintances, and experiencing all the troubles and trials incident to a student's life ; and anon your eye brightens as you think you are near the home of those who love you, and that one short hour will bear any tidings, whatever they may be, from one to the other ; and now a feeling of gratitude occupies your heart and is expressed by your countenance, showing how well you estimate the privileges you are enjoying, and as you think how much good may result from this year, if rightly irnproved. And now I know you would like a picture of my own situation. I am in a sick room. By my side, upon the bed, lies my poor old grandfather, prostrate with disease. Anxiety pervades my whole countenance, for I have become very much attached to the old man since he has been with us. He came here in May last, and has been 16 early letters. unusually well for one so old — eigthy-three — until two or three days past he has not been very well, and this morn ing he was taken worse, and cannot leave his bed. We entertain great hopes for his recovery ; stUl, one so old as he is taken away with much less sickness than one with a stronger constitution. It is so cold and rainy out that I have made a fire in the room. But my story of sickness is not yet finished, for I have not told you that my mother is down stairs confined to her bed with typhoid fever. She has been unable to do anything for the past three weeks, and has been confined to her bed for two weeks, though we think she is about over it now, and will be up in two or three days. I think I shall not go to school this fall, as we have got a shed to build, and I am needed in the store a part of the time. I was there aU the last week. My journey to the North, that I wrote you of, was frustrated. The truth of it was, the day before I was to start I had a letter from Uncle Cooper, saying that M. Louise had been taken sick, and consequently would not be able to accompany us to Lake Magog, neither would any of the family, and of course I determined not to go, for company, generally, is not very acceptable when there is sickness in the family. I went to Burke, however — Mary with me. Went up there in the afternoon, staid at your mother's that night, went over where I taught school the next day, and came back to Burke East in the afternoon, and took Mary and came home. You have a good, kind step-father ; a good, convenient, well-finished house to live in ; some of the very best of brothers and sisters— but I don't know how you will like the place itself. I don't think I should like to live there. I might, though, after I had become acquainted. Your conclusion to go to school out there quite startled me. I supposed that you would be at home early letters. 17 before winter, anyway, and that then you would come down here to school ; and. Oh ! wouldn't we have some good times. The school here numbers one hundred and twenty. There are three teachers. But now I suppose I must think of you as being among the absent another year, though I don't like to do so. You ask me how Lyndon folks prosper. Well, there are not many there to prosper, anyway. Hattie is there. She is going to South Hadley in about a fortnight. Ada went to Auburndale, Mass., a week ago. She is really a fine girl. Mr. Berry has gone to Mt. Vernon, N. H. I can't teU you anything about my going to college, for I don't know. I had a good chance to go into a store here in the place the other day. We are going to have great times here next week at the Agricultural Fair. The company have hired a piece of ground, and fenced it with a high, tight fence, and built a trotting course in it. It's nice, I tell you. I wish you could be here. I almost forgot to tell you what a nice pair of kittens we have got. They are both pure white aU over, except a spot of black, about as big as a filbert, right on the top of their heads. They are priceless to Lilly. What are you reading now ? Since I wrote you, I have read "The Aiitobiography of an Actress," by Anna Cora Mowatt, and "The Days of Bruce," in two volumes. I am now reading "EoUins' History," which I have pur chased, together with" Macaulay's History of England.!' Well, Ellen, I believe this is all I have to write now ; so I will conclude by asking you to write again soon, and accept this from Your affectionate cousin, George. —2 18 EARLY LETTERS. St. Johnsbury, Monday Evening, AprU 21, 1856, 8 :30 p. m. Dear Cousin Ellen : Here I am, as usual, in the student's chamber, and a student yet. How my table and book-case look, and how I look myself, how I feel ? Sore eyes— but I won't com plain any more. I was glad to get your letter the other morning. The last one before was dated St. Louis, 1855. It seemed like a good old friend come yet again to assure me of his friendship. I hope that after this you will write a httle oftener, since we are so near together and can't see each other once in an age. Well, as for me, I am getting along pretty well, so far, this spring. I finished up at the town clerk's office soon after you were here, and have been attending regularly to school duties since. School has only one and a half weeks longer to keep now, one week from next Friday being the eventful last day. I expect to speak to the mul titude on that occasion. Don't know whether I shall go in the summer or not. Henry Newell, as I presume you know, has been gomg the latter part of the present term. He and myself are in the same classes, excepting geome try, which he does not study. We have had two or three good sugar times this spring. One, Fast Day, consisting entirely of boys ; the other, last Saturday, consisting of four boys and seyen girls. I have heard, by the way, how you and your sisters pushed the sleigh through the streets of Burke Hollow — how the horse tumbled down, etc. Brave girls, brave girls, I must say. Ada came home last week, also Charlotte. Hattie is coming in two or three weeks. * » * * EARLY LETTERS. 19 Father has bought Uncle Chase's and Mr. Keyes' inter est in the store. The trade was made the first of April, or thereabouts. Am much obliged for the beautiful engraving you enclosed in your letter. We all want you to come down and make us a good long visit as soon as you can. Give my kind regards to all the family, and write soon to Yours affectionately. St. Johnsbury, May 2, 1856, (Friday night.) Dear Cousin : I received your letter the other morning, and was very glad to get it. I sit down now to write you only a few lines, as time will not permit more. Examination is through, and I have addressed the mul titude. I came out as well as I expected, in all my studies. Didn't miss reading any passages given me, in Latin or Greek, and demonstrated all the propositions given me in geometry. We took the whole of the seventh book. Had to learn every proposition — they numbered twenty — so that we could demonstrate any one he called for. We had this afternoon nothing but declamation, composition and singing. Sang three times during the afternoon. And now I want to say one word about your com ing down here this summer. You write that you think you shall. Now, don't give up those thoughts. Come right along, and place yourself under the tuition of Mr. Colby, and I'll agree that you'll learn enough to pay, and I'll promise to make you acquainted with boys and girls enough here so you will be contented; and more than all that, I guess that we can have, once in a while, 20 early letters. a good time here at home. We'll try, anyway. The summer term commences Thursday, May 20. I want you to come, bad. So, pack up and come down, and make one in the family here this summer. We had a May walk yesterday morning. Started away at five and got back at eight. Went up on a high hill in the vicinity. Didn't find any May flowers, but had a first-rate time. There were fifty or seventy-five in the crowd. I said, in the first place, I could write but little, so I will say good-bye by asking you again to come down. Let me know soon, by letter, your determination. In haste. Your affectionate cousin. P. S. — Joel Fletcher has lately gone into co-partnership with father, and is to move down here as soon as he can get a house. Chapter II. FRESHMAN YEAR AT DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. (1856-1857.) "Tend the root. If careful of the branches; and expand The inner souls of men before you strive For civic heroes." Mrs. Browning— (7aso Gfuidi Windows. Letters from August 31. 1856, to July 18, 1857, Inclusive— The long (winter) vacation spent in the counting-room of Chamberlin & Fletcher— A temptation to abandon his college course— Narrow escape from drowning in an unsuccessful attempt to save a classmate from a watery grave. Hanover, August 31, 1856. Dear Father and Mother : Perhaps you would like to see me this afternoon, as I sit in my arm-chair, in our pleasant, cozy room, with my new dressing-gown and slippers on, and with that same old gold pen, which has done me so much service for the past five years, in my hand, and penning these lines to you. But I may be mistaken ; this may be only a boyish surmise of mine. Be this as it may, I certainly should love to cast my eye over the household at home just at this moment, without being observed. My presence would not remain long unknown, though, I'll warrant you. We enjoyed our ride to this place finely Thursday. After we arrived, we hired a team and drew our freight 22 FRESHMAN YEAR AT up from the depot ourselves, thus saving half a dollar or more. We put up our bedstead and made our bed before supper. The cover-lid you (mother) and Mrs. N. made, fits nicely, — we are quite proud of it. After supper we bought a wash bowl and pitcher, a lamp and some other things that we needed. We went to bed early and had a good rest, and rose the next morning at five o'clock. At eleven, the Freshman class assembled, and heard a lecture representing some of the proprieties and improprieties of college life, and imparting much good advice to us who are just commenciDg. Lessons in Greek and algebra were assigned for the next day. The class being so large it was divided into two divisions. * * * j read Hero dotus in Greek, and Ovid in Latin. Yesterday morning, at eight o'clock, I recited in algebra, and at eleven, in Greek. The regular order of exercises, daily, is as fol lows : Morning prayers at eight o'clock, Latin recitation at a quarter past eight, at eleven o'clock the recitation in Greek, dinner at half past twelve, algebra at half past four, evening prayers at half past five, and supper imme diately after. * * * Our class appeared very well, taken as a whole, in church to-day. We all sit in the east gallery, north division. Some of the other classes, sitting opposite, brought in novels and read them all day, others would lie down and go to sleep, — but I am glad to say, these instances were not common. We have four teen students at the table at Mr. H.'s, aU but three of whom are in our class. I want you to ask grandpa to excuse me for coming off without going up to bid him good-bye. It was an act of great carelessness on my part, and I have been sorry for it time and again since I left. I like our room very much, — it looks so much like home, that I can't help feel ing in a measure at home. I think I shall enjoy myself DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 28 finely through the term. I havn't been homesick, though there was an hour Friday when I would have liked to be with you. I don't intend to give myself up to such feelings, for I know that I have commenced a four years' course, and if I give up to homesickness, what of the many obstacles incident to college life, can I surmount. * * * Please write me very soon. Your affectionate son. Dartmouth College, October 5, 1856. Dear Mother : I guess you begin to think, by my not writing for so long, that I was killed on my way down here, or that I considered my visit with you as an equivalent for two or three weeks' letters. Well, I wasn't killed, for if I had been, I should have written you about it last week ; neither was I hurt in any way, shape or manner, but had a fine ride, and arrived here safe and sound on the same day I left my blessed home. I was a little lonesome (homesick, if you please) that afternoon and some of the next day, but the first of last week it all wore away, and since that time I have been as happy as a king, and, I presume, happier. It is now about one o'clock, intermission be tween forenoon and afternoon service, and I am sitting at our long table with H., — both writing. Our floor is is neat and clean, the fire is nearly out in our pretty stove, the linen on the bed was put on this morning and is clean and white, the sun's rays stream in at the south windows, and we look and feel as cheerful as you please. This may be owing in part to the fact that Dr. — did not preach this forenoon. I am feeling greatly encouraged in respect to my eyes. Since I came back from my visit at home, I 24 freshman year at have been able to study every evening. I do really hope they will recover entirely, and I have faith to believe they will, now they are so much better. I took a long walk yesterday afternoon, down through the "Valley of Tempe," as it is called. It winds beauti fully along the whole distance from the village to the river ; it is nearly level all the way, and its sides are of uniform height also. A clear little brook runs through the middle of it, and its banks are as green as grass can make them. It is about a mile and a half in length. I presume grandpa has wandered through it many a time. At the end of the valley we took a boat, and sailed up to a neighboring island, and got our fill of grapes, and then returned home pretty well tired out. * * * Hannover, Wednesday evening, October 8, 1856. Dear Brother Edward : I have been thinking, for some time past, I ought to write you, and as my duties for to-morrow are not very pressing, I will employ a few moments in writing. The plate above is a correct representation of the place where your brother is, and expects to remain for four years to come. The large building in the centre, with a steeple, is "Dartmouth Hall," as it is called. The middle door leads into the chapel, where we go twice each day fot prayers ; the two doors on the right and left of the middle one, lead to our recitation rooms. This building also contains a great many rooms for students. It is a wooden building, painted white, and having green blinds. The two build ings on either side of this are of brick, and are occupied wholly by students. The one on the right is called "Thornton Hall," and the one on the left, "Wentworth Hall." The large building on the right, next to "Thorn- DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. , 25 ton Hall," is "Eeed Hall," which is also of brick, and much the nicest building of the four. In the lower story are the museum, the picture gallery, and a lecture room ; the second story is occupied by the hbraries, and the third contains students' rooms. The building which you can just see on the left, is the "Medical College." This is of brick. Directly in front of the four prominent build ings, stretches out a large and beautiful common. It is , completely surrounded with large trees. By the picture and my description, you can imagine, in some degree, how "Old Dartmouth" looks. * * * George Chase is with you now, I suppose. You must entertain him for me to the best of your ability. Harness Old Grey, and take him all around the village, down to Fairbanks' shops and to aU the places of interest, if you have time. * * * Your affectionate brother. TO MARY. Dartmouth College, October 12, 1856. Dear Sister: The time has come for me to answer your last letter, and I cheerfully sit down to perform that duty. It is a very pleasant day, and in fact we have had splendid weather here for the week past, — -warm and summer like. I am getting along just about as usual. My health is first rate and my eyes are getting better. I can study nearly two hours, each evening, without realizing much inconve nience. You don't know how encouraged I am by this change for the better, and I doubt not you will rejoice with me in the effects. The two divisions of our class are to change to-morrow the studies which they have been pursuing thus far during the term, each taking the last part of the term, what the other had the first part. I have 26 freshman year at been reading Herodotus in Greek, and Ovid in Latin, but to-morrow I commence Homer in Greek and Livy in Latin. I anticipate an easier time during the remain der of the term. I have been to church to-day and heard . Oh, I wish you could only look in on the students when he gets fairly to going in Ms sermon. Some are lying stretched out upon the seats, some are reading, some are gaz ing inattentively about, and but very few are listening to the preacher. I myself was to-day one of those whom you would have seen, had you come in, stretched out upon a seat. I think he has a decidedly bad effect on the students, since they lose all interest in attending church, and only attend because required to, and while there, manifest no respect whatever for the place they are in. The faculty expelled one from our class last week, by name . We did not know the reasons of his expulsion, and thinking there had been some injustice in the matter, a meeting of the class was called to consider it. Two other fellows and myself were appointed a committee to investigate the subject. We went that evening and heard 's story, and after that, to the President, and respect fully requested him to state, if he was willing, his reasons for the expulsion of our class-mate. This he was very glad to do. He stated, at considerable length, his reasons, many of which we called in question. He was perfectly willing to reason it out to us, and after having argued with him some three-fourths of an hour, we bade him good eve ning. He said, during the conversation, he was glad we came in, and that the sympathy thus extended by his class mates to their removed brother, was commendable to the whole class. On giving our report the next day, the class voted that a petition, signed by all the members, should DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 27 be presented to the faculty, requesting that, if possible, he should again be received into the college. I don't think, however, we shall get him back. About twenty-five "Dartmouth boys" went to Concord two weeks since, to the reception of President Pierce, con cerning which you have probably heard. I came very near going, and now I almost wish I had, for the Presi dent conferred on our delegation quite a marked honor. He invited them into his private parlor, where each one was introduced to him, and had the pleasure of shaking hands with him, and then heard a speech from him. They stopped in his parlor some time. Mr. Laws, who Was at home with me, was one of the number. You may, if you please, read the above to grandpa. I have not heard anything about the schools at St. Johnsbury since I was there, and don't know whether I can get one there or not. Tell mother I wish she would write me if she has heard anjrthing about it. I would much prefer not to teach this winter, if I can't get a school at home, but I think I should like to go into the store if I could, because it would harden my constitution for the spring and sum mer terms, andJ think, moreover, if my eyes were allowed to rest through the winter, they would be perfectly well by spring. Your affectionate brother, George. Dartmouth College, October 19, 1856. Dear Mother : I haven't received an answer to my last to you, but probably you have been busy aU the time, and have not found a moment wherein to drop me a line. But I don't think, in your case and mine, we ought to be at all parti cular whether one or the other receives the most letters. 28 FRESHMAN YEAR AT but on the other hand, when either one of us has a spare half hour in. which we feel like writing, and are confident our letters wUl be acceptable, (which always is the case with your letters to me), we ought to write, not taking into consideration whether we owe a letter or not. This seems a cold and formal kind of correspondence. I like to sit down once a week and have a chat with pen and ink, if this may be called a chat, and I suppose it is the nearest to it we can get while we are separated. I am happy to write you that good fortune follows me as yet. My health continues first-rate, my eyes are so I use them every evening. I received Mary's letter yesterday, by which I learned that father was once more with you. I am glad he has got home safe. Give much love to him from me. Mary did not say where he had been, or how he succeeded in trading. Did he go to St. Louis ? She wrote, in the first part of her letter, that he wished me to come into his counting-room this winter, and I was feeling quite well about it until I came to the last page, where I foimd, by an after decision, it was very doubtful whether he should want me or not. The chief objection seemed to be that I should hardly get started before I should have to leave. I don't know but it would take me fourteen or fifteen weeks to get initiated into the business, but I surely can not think so. You know I have been there a year in aU, and I should take hold quicker from that experience. In teaching this winter, I should gain no physical strength ; probably, on the other hand, my physical constitution would degenerate, and my eyes would not be helped by it. As Prof. Noyes said the other day, (he called at our room) "a teacher reaps almost unlimited benefit from reviewing over the minor studies in a winter school for the first two or three winters, but after that it is not so much DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 29 advantage to him, since he becomes famihar with these studies to a considerable extent." Now, I have taught two or three winters, and as you know, it Is rather home sick business for me. I would like to familiarize myself with the forms of business, which, of course, would be of much use to me through aU my life. StiU, I am perfectly willing to teach, if you all think it is best for me ; and if I do, I shall labor to perform my whole duty to those placed under my charge. * * * Your affectionate son. Hanover, March 12, 1857. Messrs. Chamberlin & Fletcher : Dear Gentlemen — -WiU you please write me by to-mor row's mail whether you have a book-keeper as yet, and if you have not, whether you would like to have me come back at your offer. The longer I stay here the more I think I was never made to be housed here in this little room four years as a college student, and other circum stances, too, would influence me to leave if I could get my old situation. However, if you have employed a clerk, or do not want me, I shall in all probability remain here. Very respectfully yours, George E. Chamberlin. Hanover, April 21, 1857. Dear Ellen : I've been looking and looking at your miniature this afternoon, and have now set it up against a book full before me, and have determined to write you a letter. I have asked myself why I have not written you before, but no sufficient answer cometh. I might say that I have wanted time, but then when I think of the leisure moments I have had in which I could have written you, 30 freshman year at had I had the will, my heart condemns me for such an answer. But, dear EUen, in my old age I find I'm truly growing lazy, and the letters which go forth from my hand are far fewer than in youthful days. Isn't it so with you ? But now I am seated with a full determination of writing you one of my loving, good, old-fashioned letters. College life, you know, is rather barren of incident, there being the same routine of labor from day to day. Once in while, however, college boys do have a rousing good time. For instance, last Saturday after noon our whole class met together in one of the recitation rooms, and had a treat on peanuts and molasses candy. No one can describe our fun at such meetings, except a participator. * » * * * J (ji(jn't gee you all last winter, did I, Ellen ? Wasn't that ridiculous ? Well, I had no chance to go to Burke all the winter. I worked very hard there in the store. I tried to give them satisfaction by good behavior, promptness and accuracy, and I think I may flatter myself that I was successful in some degree. Perhaps you have heard mother or some of them say how near I came to giving up college. They made me a very tempting offer to stay, viz : f 600 for a year. But I saw fit to come back, so I left my home again, endeared to me on account of many things, and here I am and have been since, plodding along on the quiet, toilsome, yet pleasant journey of the student's life. The first half of the term I read Livy for Latin ; ^am now reading no Latin ; have finished for this term. We read in Horace a short time, though. Have been reading Homer all the term, also studying geometry. We commenced with the third book at the beginning of the term ; we are now in the ninth. We shall soon finish the ninth, and tenth, which will take us through the geometry, and then take DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 81 up trigonometry the last two weeks of the term. I spoke on the stage this morning for the first time since I have been here. I wasn't sea/red at all. While the class is declaiming we have pretty easy times, for the speaking exercise takes the place of a regular recitation, and only six speak at each exercise, so you see it will take some days to get through, during which time we have to pre pare no afternoon recitation. Ellen, I wish you could be here a day or two, and see a little what college life is — see three hundred and fifty young men going regularly up to the old college at the ringing of the bell, and all let loose again at the end of the hour. I teU you it fills one with pecuUar feelings to see so many pouring out of the chapel at once. I waited to-day until they had all got out, and went along behind where I could see them aU, and I thought there might be perhaps in that crowd the future strength and greatness of our nation; and perhaps there might be artists there, and poets and philosophers and statesmen ; and I thought I would like to know now the history of that crowd fifty years hence; and then I thought how uncertain were all their hopes, and how many troubles and trials were destined to come upon this multitude, and as I applied this thought to myself, I was sad. I must take my book now and prepare the morning recitation. Good night. 32 FRESHMAN YEAR AT TO MARY. Hanover, June 27, 1857. (Sunday p. m.) Dear Sister : Actually there has not been a time before, since I left home, that I have felt I could spare an hour for writing you. I think I have not studied as hard any three weeks since I have been in college, as during the past three. Our Latin and Greek are not very hard, but the mathematics has taken the study. We are in trigonometry. Soon after I came back we had three or four lessons in trigonometri cal examples, each consisting of five or six examples, and the smallest amount of time in which one of them could be worked out was an hour. So you see if we had six for a lesson, it must take us six hours to prepare the recita tion. The consequence was, none of us went in with more than half a lesson, and I never got them aU worked out untU some time last week, when I handed them in. I wiU bring up some of them and show you, if I think of it. Since then we have' been continually in the midst of trig onometrical formulae, which are harder than the examples by as much as one can imagine. So you see just how I have been situated. If it had been otherwise, I should have written you ere this. We expect a rich treat in hearing Edward Everett deliver his great oration on Washington, Tuesday next. I wish you could hear|[it. Can you not come down ? If not, win not father take mother and come ? It would do her very much good, no doubt, besides, it is no small thing to listen to Edward Everett, who is probably the greatest orator in our country at the present day. He speaks on Tuesday, at 3 o'clock p. m., so that in coming down DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 33 Tuesday and going back Wednesday, they would not lose much time. I think perhaps such a little trip would do mother more good than many bottles of London porter. I was greatly obliged for the little paper of maple sugar mother sent me yesterday, and don't know but I should be for another similar one. Suppose you try me the next time the valise comes, and see. By the way, I should like to get the "North Star" as often as you can conve niently send it. We shall finish advancing in study for Freshman Year this week. We must then commence reviewing for our horrid examination, which takes place about July 20th. I fear it a little. But that over, and we can with rapture say, " Sophomores spmus nunc." I went out yesterday, with two friends, hunting mineral specimens. Went some eight or ten miles over into Nor wich, and traversed the hills till we were pretty well tired out. We got some very good specimens, however, to pay for our trouble. I don't know that anything gives me more pleasure or satisfaction than to go out a day and converse, as it were, with Nature. I love very much to dig and examine the rocks which were formed by the eruption of the boiling chaos within the earth, or washed from different climes when the earth was flooded with water. You know the theory of geologists is that all New England was once an ocean, and where the Atlantic now is, was once a continent. This theory is probably true, it being based on facts such as that there are sea shells found in different parts of New England which could not have been there unless there had been salt water there at some time or other. It is a very interest ing subject, and one I mean to look into more deeply some time. —3 34 FRESHMAN YEAR AT I hope you will answer this soon. Give me all the news. The little things going on in the neighborhood are what one likes to hear of when he is away from home. I wonder why Edward and Carrie never write me. . Tell Lilly I expect she will when she is a little older. Give much love to them all, and to father and mother. I really hope mother will not be poorly all through the pleasant summer. Good-bye. Your brother. Hanover, July 9, 1857. My Dearest Mother : Thanks be to heaven that it is not your lot or part this day to receive intelligence from your son which would prostrate all your hopes, and fill your heart with heavi ness of grief. A classmate has, this afternoon, passed suddenly from life unto death, and Harriet Beecher Stowe laments a son, having ended his life by one of the worst of deaths — drowned in the dark waters of the Connecti cut. I was with him, and God knows I did all in my power to save him. When Stowe cried for help, a class mate and myself were swimming ashore with another friend, whom we had barely rescued from a watery grave. Three of us then placed ourselves along-side of a large boat (fifty feet long), and commenced swimming with it toward Stowe, since we had no oars. We were on the New Hampshire side, he nearer the Vermont side. In the meantime two classmates, who were on the other side with him, were exerting every muscle to save him, but soon, from their untiring efforts, strength failed them, and they were obliged to release their hold and save themselves, if possible. But they were sd far gone they ¦were unable to make scarcely the least exertion for them selves, and for a time we entertained fears that the whole DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 35 three would go under. We arrived just in time to save the two, but Stowe, alas ! sank. We found him in about fifteen or twenty minutes, and having taken him ashore, worked over him two hours, endeavoring to resuscitate him, but all to no purpose. He is dead. His remains will go home to-morrow morning, accompanied by a suita ble committee. This, indeed, was an awful sight, dear mother, an awful calamity. I was so exhausted when I reached them with the boat, I could hardly speak or stand when I was taken into another boat. For further partic ulars you must wait until I see you. In haste. Your affectionate son. Old Dartmouth, July 18, 1857. (Satunrday noon.) All Hail ! Dear Mother : For just now I have recited my last, even the last, reci tation of my Freshman year. And if, perchance, it will afford you any gratification, know that your George has not missed a single question in the mathematical depart ment during the term which has passed. I am' afraid you will call me a boaster when you read this, but I feel pretty high just now, and impulse leads me to pen it ; but it is intended for no other eye than yours, so I will let this half-sheet be disjoined from what I may write further on Monday, that you may burn it. Good-bye. George. 36 SOPHOMORE YEAR AT Chapter III. SOPHOMORE YEAR AT DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. (1857-1858.) "The spirit of youth. That means to be of note, begins betimes." Antony and Cleopatra. Letters from September 6. 1857, to July 18, 1858, inclusive— The winter spent in teaching at Concord, Vermont— Extract from a lecture on "Wealth of Mind," delivered to the church at Concord Corner, February 2d, and in the church at West Concord. February 11th— Edward at Hanover— Plans for spending the summer vacation at Calais, Maine. Hanover, September 6, 1857. Dear Mother : Forgive me that, before this late hour, I have not writ ten you a single word. Perhaps you can surmise the reason of my delay at once, as being the difficulty with my eyes. # * * j have been able, for the most part, to keep my studies along, though I have not been able to look into a book after dark, and sometimes in the day time I have been obliged to close my book and almost give up in despair. But no — my eyes must get well; they must, they must ! * * * Oh ! mother, you don't know what glory there is in being a Sophomore, and you don't know how I am enjoying myself, notwithstanding my affliction. We have a little palace for a room. 1 DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 37 would not be ashamed of it, at any rate, if a king should come in. It was newly papered and painted during vacation, and handsomely, too, and we got our new carpet down yesterday, and in my opinion we have the neatest, prettiest and coziest room in Dartmouth. Curtains are the only thing we want now, and we thought our mothers had better get them and make them at home. We want shades such as are in^jur sitting-room at home, with a dark painting in the centre. Don't get anything that's flourished off like those in the dining-room. I think the color of those in the sitting-room or parlor would be the most tasteful for this room. * * * I am into electioneering for secret societies all over. It's all excitement here — good deal going on among the poor Freshmen. We are going out surveying this week. I am leader of my division. I will tell you what this means next time. Affectionately yours. Dartmouth College, Oct. 19, 1857. Dear Mother : I received your good, long letter to-day, and was very much obliged for it. I want to write something about the subject of my winter's employment, and for this reason I answer so soon. I wanted to spend the winter in Massa chusetts very much, but owing to the great crisis in business affairs I suppose it is hardly possible to obtain a situation in Boston, and I see no other alternative now than that I must teach. * * * * i ought to get $80 per month this winter, and I dont wan't to teach for less than $25, and I can get that just as well as nothing at all. I want the bargain made so I shan't have to board around the neighborhood, but in one place. 38 sophomore year at I am afraid it is too late for a school. George Chase is trying to get me a place in Boston, but I presume he won't succeed. I wish father would write me before he closes any bargain. I will write immediately on the receipt of any such letter. * * * I wish I could step in and talk with you a little minute to-night, but if I go up there to teach this winter, it will not be long before I shall see you. Give a great deal of love to all the family, and take a large share for your self, from Your affectionate son. Concord, January, 12, 1868. Dear Ellen: I don't know as you are aware of the very important fact that I, George E. Chamberhn, have taken up my residence, henceforth and henceforward, in the town of Concord Corner, as resident pedagogue. In consideration of your ignorance of this great and important disso lution of copartnership and new arrangement, I hereby take opportunity to inform your ladyship that I have located permanently at Concord, and shall be happy to receive calls from you professionally or otherwise. All profes sional communications strictly confidential. Orders by mail promptly attended to. Well, Ellen, how do you do, and what are you doing ? I believe you told me you were going to have a class in French from among the youths of Burke. How do they flourish ? Does their progress exceed your expectations ? I have been here nearly four weeks. Miss A taught the school the first two weeks, and found she couldn't get along for some reason. I think it was no fault of hers, though. Well, the committee heard of such a per son as my inconsiderable self, and so, one Saturday, DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. . 39 came over to St. Johnsbury. I didn't want to go a bit, and told him so, and went with him to Mr. Colby to get somebody else, but no one else could be found, and I must go ; so go I did. I wanted to return to college this winter very much. The winter term com mences there the fifteenth ^of this month. I am getting $24 per month here, and board in one place, and a splen did boarding place I have, too. Have a good, warm room to myself when I please, and can sit with the family when I please. Play back gammon frequently. My host and hostess are both young, twenty-three or twenty-four, I should say. Have thirty scholars and a good school house — one scholar in Latin. I had a letter from Hattie last week. She is a little lonesome, I think. I went home New Year's, and had a splendid ride in the evening. Shall go home next Friday. I am writing a lecture, which I shall deliver here by invitation in two or three weeks. Isn't tha^ a great idea ? Won't you come and hear it ? Good-bye. Write to your ever affectionate cousin, George E. C. TO MARY. Concord, January 21, 1858. Miss M. A. Chamberlin: Dear Madam — It becomes my painful duty at this time to inform you that my lecture, at which I expected your attendance, has been delivered. It was unexpected, even to myself, that it would be given so soon, but unfor- seen circumstances rendered it quite necessary that the event should transpire as it did. It was delivered last (Wednesday) evening, in the school-house. My audience was small, but very appreciative. I was forced to read it 40 _ SOPHOMORE YEAR AT from the first copy, since I had no time whatever to transcribe it. Deeply regretting that you were not here, I remain yours truly, etc., George E. Chamberlin. From the manuscript of this lecture, entited Wealth of Mind, I copy the closing paragraphs : " Thus have we dwelt at length on the value of mental wealth, and the methods by which it may be obtained ; and if our reasoning be valid, I see no sufficient ground for adhering to the old and erroneous opinion that the road to intellectual attainment is attended ever with almost insurmountable obstructions, but rather we may conclude that all we have to do to obtain an extended practical knowledge is to study Nature and through Nature, God ; to improve our walks by the addition of some item of useful information to our increasing stock ; to think, read, examine, understand, remember, and before we are aware of it, we shall have actually laid up those stores of mental wealth which moth nor rust can corrupt, nor fire consume, nor any human contingencies depreciate. As for the time which must be devoted to these things, a worthy proverb says : ' The time which makes a wise man, is the time that makes a fool ; and the counters with which the untaught lose the game, are the same with which the skillful win it.' " Before closing, I would linger a moment more on the importance of literary culture in connection with the business part of the community, and labor more fully to eradicate the idea that members of the learned profes sions alone require or need liberal or even middling educations. In this prosperous land the people are the sovereigns, and as is the character of the sovereigns, so will be the character of their government. If they are DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 41 well-informed, and actuated by those pure princi ples which a liberal knowledge is ever wont to incul cate, then we may reasonably expect a sound and well regulated democracy. If not, we may expect, no less, that the contrary will be true. The souls of the people constitute the one grand soul of the republic. We have seen how Greece and Egypt, among the prosperous nations of old, have fallen. How far their misfortunes were due to the illiteracy of their common people, we know not. But God grant that for this, or any other reason, our dear America may not fall before that she has heaped up for herself trophies of her beauty and power surpassing those of all the nations of antiquity as the day surpasseth the night ; and were it not a foolish wish, I would say, would to God that she might never be among the nations of antiquity, that the evening of her years might never come ; but, ever freshening, hers might be a perpetual morning — an everlasting fullness of youth. " Fathers, the burdens now becoming heavy for your aged shoulders must soon roll off, and lean for support upon the youthful generation. Look well, then, to the responsibilities which now rest upon you. Train up these minds under your pilotage in the way they should go ; discharge your duties faithfully towards them, and rich shall be your reward. " Besides these public interests, dependent, in a certain degree, upon mental culture, the private consequences resulting from it avail the professional no more than the unprofessional man. "Among the cautious which some of our men of pre tended worldly wisdom and experience inculcate into the hearts of their sons, is that they have a care and not mix intellectual pursuits with other duties, so as to inter fere with their business. The father who thus persuades 42 sophomore year at his son, had far better leave him penniless and without a friend. And why? Because the young man of himself can acquire both riches and friends, but if he is taught to despise mental culture, his hopes of happiness cannot be realized. The young mind must have some relaxation, and unless that of a salutary kind be resorted to, that of a hurtful will. The natural tendencies of a business life without some mental diversion are selfish and degenerat ing, and there must be some counter-action or the whole life will become sordid and unpleasant — the man will be destitute of that refinement and exaltation of soul which are indispensable in his social and moral relations. It is not possible for a man of business to enjoy his wealth, unless he intersperses his life with literary pursuits. He must, of necessity, be brought much in contact with polite and refined society, and when he is addressed on any liter ary topic, he is sensible of the disgrace he has incurred upon himself by neglect of the cultivation of his mind ; and when he retires, satiated with wealth, to private life, what can he do with himself, provided he knows nothing of men, of Nature, or of God ? His old age will be cheerless and loathsome. He will seek in vain for some employ ment to abate the cares and biting regrets of his declining years ; whereas had he only knowledge to beguile the weary hours, they would glide smoothly away, and look ing back upon a pleasant life not wholly spent in vain, he could go down willingly to the grave. Cicero speaks beautifully, as well as comprehensively, when he says : ' These studies nourish the young man, they entertain the old man ; they adorn prosperity, and afford a refuge and solace for adversity ; they impart gratification at home, they embarass not abroad ; they are with us during the vigils of the night; they are our companions amid the retirement of rural scenes." The knowledge of Nature in DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 43 those respects even which have the least to 'do with men's business, is of itself a most delightful acquisition. Who can content himself to pass through this crowded world of wisdom, skill and beauty, and not bestow upon it a casual thought ? On the other hand, how sublime must it be to stand amid the mighty works of Jehovah, and, in the mind, possess a key to every one. Ay ! to look around, not with the dull, unconscious gaze of mere ani mal sensation, but to comprehend, in their qualifications and uses, the air, the sunshine and the storm, the cold and the heat, the wind and the lightning — to see all these things moving in order and harmony, even Planets, suns and adamantine spheres Wheeling unshaken through the void immense" is near to the perfection of worldly happiness. " Can we contrast, then, wealth of mind with wealth in gold ? No, they are too much at variance to admit of contrasts ; the gulf ^that [lies [between them ^is too wide to limit. Circumstances are favorable to us, if we have the will to learn, and it is time we were awake ; the best season for laying up treasures of knowledge is passing by. Flinch not, oh youth, at poverty's harsh threats, but breast every storm of adversity with manly valor. Make and persevere in your determination to acquire that intel lectual culture, which shall, in the end, insure your ha.p- piness. Sail out far upon the boundless sea of knowledge, and dive deeper into its uufathoma.ble depths, and wrestle with its mighty waves that lift high their crested heads from earth to heaven. Thus shall you bring up spoils richer than gold, treasures that never fade away." 44 SOPHOMORE YEAR AT Dartmouth College, March 28, 1858. My Dearest Mother : You don't know how glad I was to hear, by Mary's last, that you were, indeed, better. I recollect how despairingly you used to tell me that you were all the time losing your flesh, — weighing less and less each day, upon my return from my fortnight absence in Concord . But now I am glad that the scale has turned, and I hope that my mother may greet my next return with a healthy and vigorous countenance. Notwithstanding my desire to get back to Dartmouth as soon as possible, when I was home, there has been no term when I have thought of you all so much, as during the three weeks of the present. Although I have warm friends and good companions here, yet comparing them with those at home, they are but shadows. I have been studying extremely hard since the day after I left home. We are having the last part of Chase's algebra, which is "perfectly awful." Our Latin, too, has been quite difficult. We have just finished natu ral theology, which we have been reciting to Professor Noyes. This week, we have speaking under Professor Brown. You may think of me Tuesday about half-past two o'clock as on the stage and doing my best in a decla mation before my class. Oh ! you don't know how I like to get up before an audience and speak. It seems as though I was inimy element. I wish we had the exer cise a great deal oftener than we do here. This exercise takes the place of regular p. m. recitation, for two or three weeks, thus giving us an easier time than we have had. #***** j^ makes me feel solemn, sometimes, when I think I have really left home. But solemn though it be, I suppose it is, nevertheless, true, unless sickness prevents, that as soon as my college course is finished, I shall be off after a profession, and when that is learned. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 45 * I must establish a home for myself. But let what will come, nothing can ever break those heart bonds which bind me now so closely to those I love so dearly. Don't indulge any fear about my playing cards, mother. I have played but one game this term. I have no time, neither a disposition, to indulge at aU. Don't fear, but rest assured that your son is leading an honorable and upright course, is found in no bad company, and will not tarnish the honored name which he has inherited. Is this boastful ? If you think you love honor, integity and purity better than I do, then tell me it is. But I am afraid, mother, you won't like this letter, it is so full of my moralizing, but, however, I want a long letter from you soon. Get a good pen and some good ink, and write me three pages. I send a paper to Edward. Eead criticism on poems written by a class-mate of mine. Love to all. Let me get a letter right off. Your affectionate son. Wednesday, June 9, 1858. Dear Mother : I write you to-day on a little matter of business. You know we had a little conversation about my studying law next winter. Now, I want you to talk it over with father to-night, and let me know to-morrow whether you think I had better take this course, or teach ; for if I am going to do the latter, I want to be engaging a school, and not wait untn they are all taken. If I study law this next winter, and the one succeeding, I shall be ready for prac- . tice when I am twenty-four ; if I do not, when I am twen ty-five. Besides the year's time, I should save consider. able expense, for if I graduate before I commence study ing, I don't think I should want to begin there at home, 46 sophomore year at but should be off somewhere else on expense. However, I can't stop to name all the advantages and disadvantages connected with the subject, and you know them, prob ably, as well as I ; therefore, will you and father consider it, and write to-morrow. You know well my preference. Edward sits by contentedly studying geometry. Love to all. Your affectionate son. Dartmouth College, July 14, 1858. Dear Mother : I welcome you home again, and congratulate you on your pleasant journey and safe return. I was almost sure you would come this way and give me another sight at you before I go on my journey. But your reason for com ing back as you did was a good one. You must have had a splendid time. I hope you will write me a long letter soon, giving me a full description of your whole tour, and giving me an idea, if you can, of the great natu ral wonder, Niagara Falls. I have no thought as to how they look, only that they must be grand and majestic, even beyond description. It is half-past three p. m. I have just finished my Greek lesson for half-past four. It is a cool, nice afternoon. I am learning those which are among my last recitations in Sophomore year, for we get all through studying Saturday noon next. Our examina tion occupies all next week, and Commencement comes the week after. Edward will be with you again in about two weeks, and I will start another way. If Mary goes . with me, she will want to come down here one week from next Tuesday, in order to see all the Commencement exer cises, and start with me for Maine probably the next Friday morning. I ought to know right off, this week, whether she is going to be here or not, as I shall have to DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 47 get her a place to stop while here. And then, in making my calculations for the journey, I ought to know whether she is to accompany me, as, perhaps, if she doesn't go, I shall want to go down and stop with some of the boys on the way, as I have had many invitations to that effect. I wish you would decide about this, and let me know this week. I think you'd better let her go. I don't believe it will cost more than twenty-five dollars. You wrote me you thought it would cost' fifty dollars. Edward sits by me performing his daily exercise in writing from a copy. He studies geometry in the forenoon, and devotes the afternoon to reading and writing. He has remembered your instructions, and been a first-rate boy all summer. Everyone that knows him, even by sight, calls him a weU behaved, good boy, — one that minds his own business, as our college phraseology would have it. He has studied hard enough, and I tl^ink made rapid advancement. In the water he has been cautious, never venturing where there was danger. He has been economical and steady. Indeed, I have known him to do hardly an improper thing since he came. He has made a good many acquaintances, yet has not found those with whom he could sport quite so much as I could wish. But it will not hurt him any to have dispensed with that for so short a time. His sum mer, in my opinion, has been a most profitable one I will have him write you a letter as soon as he gets the composition done, which he is now at work upon. Tell father I shall have to have some more money to square this term's bills. You know I came away with not quite fifty dollars. I have engaged a school in Washington, N. H., for the coming winter, to commence the last of November or the first of December. I am to have thirty-two dollars per month of twenty-two days, and my board. It is to be three months long. The fare down and back will be some 48 SOPHOMORE YEAR. four dollars. I don't know exactly where this Washing ton is, but think it somewhere near Claremont. Don't know, of course, just what kind of a place it is, though I don't think it is a very large or busy community, — perhaps as large as St. Johnsbury Center or East. Was elected to an office last night, in the United Fraternity, which will pay me twelve dollars for the coming year. Your affectionate son. TO MARY. Dartmouth College, July 18, 1858. Dear Sister : * * * Yesterday the class of 1860 finished their recitations for Sophomore Year. Yesterday we recited the last lesson in mathematics of the course. Thank fortune, we are through it, and thank her more when our examination in it is over. The examination will occupy all of the present week. Our mathematics, which is the most difficult examination of the college course, comes on Friday. If I survive the occasion I shall consider myself fortunate. The examining committee came into town yesterday. * * * Next week comes Commencement with all its noise and liveliness. I expected a letter yes terday informing me of the decision in regard to your coming. I shall get it to-morrow, no doubt. If you go, do you want to go with me and stop at the house of one of my friends for two or three days before we go to Bowdoin? I have told a fellow I would probably go home with him. He lives in Andover, N. H. * * * Edward is getting along nicely. He will send mother a letter on Wednesday, I think. He and I will probably go down to the Junction to-morrow, to see the place and people who may be on the trains. Shall find a good many familiar faces, no doubt. I always do. * * * Your affectionate brother. Chaptek IV. JUNIOR YEAR AT DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. (1858-1859.) "Character is higher than intellect. * * * a great soul will be strong to live, as well as to think." Emeeson— T/te Americin Scholar. Letters from August 9,1858, to July 10,1859, Inclusive— An account of the summer's visit in Calais, Maine— The winter spent in Chamberlin & Fletcher's counting room— Trip to Boston— June 30,1859, his twenty- first birthday. Calais, Maine, August 9, 1858. (Monday morning.) Dear Mother : We are here and safe, though we have been tremendous sick. If you had known the condition of your son and daughter last Thursday evening, you would have laughed, if not feared. We were nothing but sea-sick. But I must tell you all about our journey. We started from Boston Monday evening last, in a large, fine steamer, the Montreal. Neither of us were sick until we landed the next morning in Portland at four o'clock. We then felt a little badly. At nine o'clock we started for Bowdoin, where we arrived at half-past ten. Committees were in waiting at the depot for delegates to the convention, and I was immediately 50 JUNIOR YEAR AT furnished with good quarters. Our convention was very interesting, indeed. The Dartmouth delegation was recog nized with numerous honors. I had the honor of being appointed chairman of one of the important committees, and of making a lengthy written report, which was well received. We all wore long strips of red, blue and white ribbon under our gold badges, as insignia. We had a splendid time. Thursday noon we went to Portland, from which place we took the boat for Calais at five p. m. Had not been long on the water before we were both sea-sick. Of course, we thought we should never recover, and all that, but we did get over it. We ran aground opposite St. Andrews, Friday, and were detained three hours and a half. It was a tedious time, I assure you. We got here Friday evening at six o'clock, tired and glad. All are well here, and doing all they can to make it pleasant for us. Spent part of yesterday at Aunt Harriet Alward's. # * # Your affectionate son. Hanover, September 11, 1858. My Dear Mother : Not at all have I come to the conclusion to withhold my letters from you until the "old score" is fully paid up. The thought never entered my mmd, and you did me injustice in supposing such a thing. I did, in fact, feel a little neglected while in Mame, and, perhaps, was a little vexed when I penned the short note you referred to. You know I received but one letter from home while I was away, and that was the very short one of yours, and I assure you, I learned to appreciate the value of a hue of news. When one is far away he has an interest in every httle thing that transpires there. Day after day DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 51 witnessed my disappointment, and night after night my patience was sorely tried. This letter, which I now com mence, and know not when I shall finish, has been intended for you ever since my return, but from the pressure of duties I have not before been able to begin it. I have devoted all my spare time, 'till within two or three days, to the preparing of our college paper, which wiU, we expect, be issued next week. Now I am, comparatively speaking, at leisure, and I propose giving you an account, to some extent particular, and perhaps somewhat lengthy, of our most pleasant and beneficial trip to Maine. I am afraid the details may be uninteresting and wearisome to you, but I will try and be as concise and brief as possible, and to present our experience to you in as attractive manner as I am able, in an off-hand letter. I hope Mary will consider this not by any means as an insinuation on my part, that she is not capable of telling the story, — not at all ; I'll state my recollections partly for my own gratification, hoping that some of them may be new to you, and perhaps interesting. Well, then, here beginneth the account : On Friday, the 30th day of July, we left Hanover in the midst of a drenching rain, glad enough to be on our way. We arrived in Concord between three and four o'clock p. M., and took rooms at the American House. Before nine o'clock the next morning I had completed a trade with McFarland & Jenks to print our paper, (this was the object for which I stopped in that city), after which Mary and I were kindly shown about the city by a class-mate of mine, — a resident there. We bade adieu to Concord some time in the forenoon, and arrived in Bos ton at half-past one p. m. Walked up to Mr. Brickett's with Mary after dinner, from the Marlboro, where we 62 JUNIOR year at stopped. There I left her and went in pursuit of a class mate, whom I supposed to be in the city, but learned, after considerable perambulation, that he was absent at that time. Eeturned to Mr. Brickett's, and took Mary back to our hotel. In the evening I found Jim Stone, who appeared glad to see me, and anxious to do anything which might conduce to our pleasure while in the city. Sabbath morning he called and invited us to accompany him to church. Of course, we gladly consented. We went to Theodore Parker's church, intending, or rather expecting, to hear him, but found the door of the edifice closed, with a notice posted that there would be no ser vices there that day. We were not long, however, in find ing another place, and not disappointed in our expecta tion of finding fine churches, and hearing good preaching in Boston. The minister's name I did not learn. In the afternoon, it being rainy, I wrote letters, and in the even ing, took a long walk with Jim. In the morning, went into the police court with him, and saw the poor, degraded foreigners, and some not so, hustled off by scores at a fine of three dollars and costs, in default of which the poor wretches were committed. Old women were there, hag gard from the effect of late intoxication, and young girls with red and swollen eyes, insensible to shame, old men and boys, all confessing their crimes, and submitting, most of them, with apparent unconcern, to their doom. Spent the remainder of the day pleasantly about the city until five o'clock p. m., when we embarked on board the large and beautiful steamer "Montreal" for Portland. Here I found my fellow- delegate to Bowdoin, — B. G. Cilley, and also other D. K. E. boys, from different places, bound for the convention. We had a jolly time on deck singing college songs, etc., etc., etc., until 9 o'clock, when we "turned in." Having failed of securing a berth in DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 53 season, I was obliged to take a mattress on the floor of the cabin. This was my first experience on the water, you know, and you won't be surprised to learn that my rest was somewhat broken during the night. However, I believe none of us were sea-sick to any extent during that sail. At five o'clock on the morning of the 8d of August, we landed in Portland, a good deal fatigued and inclined to be a little sick. (A page is here missing.) ***** On Wednesday, the 11th day of August, aU hands went up to Lewey's Island, twenty miles from Calais, and cor responding somewhat to our Willoughby. Our party con sisted of Aunt Harriet's family. Uncle D. K. and wife, Uncle Alward and wife, Mr. King and wife, of Calais ; Mr. Boardman, and wife of Milltown (very pleasant folks) ; and Mr. Darling, — family and friends of Mill- town. I include Mary and myself in Aunt Harriet's family. It was rainy during most of the forenoon, during which time the ladies of the party were engaged in unpacking the good things they had brought with them for a dinner. This we took in a barn lately built by Uncle Daniel, who also owns a small house with which this is connected. The dinner was superb. Notwithstanding the rain, I spent the forenoon mostly in fishing and hunt ing. We returned in the evening, and all said we had had a pleasant time. Thursday, Hattie, Mina, George and myself went up to Aunt H. Alward's to make them a visit. With the exception of George, we all remained two or three days, eating large quantities of good things which our Aunt brought onto her table, drinking currant wine and raspberry shrub, and Hattie and I fighting a good part of the time. Mary will remember the weapons. On Saturday, with Mary and Aunt Harriet, I called upon two young ladies in Milltown — Miss Hitchings and Miss 54 JUNIOR YEAR AT Eaton. Aunt Harriet is quite pleasantly situated there in Milltown. Her house is small, you know, but very cozy. The front is well shaded by trees and a thrifty woodbine. Their garden, which grandpa, as they said, first planned and put in operation, is the best in the vil lage, containing all the luxuries of the cHmate, in their season. Their black raspberries, gooseberries, and white currants especially, were delicious. The Damson plum tree promised a rich abundance of fruit. Aunt Harriet keeps a little school i^ear her house, from which she realizes a good profit, and I think she enjoys it. They board the preceptor of the academy, who, from their account of him, I should judge to be a pleasant man, — his name is Harris. There is no man in town, in my judgment, who really enjoys more of the happiness of this life than Uncle Alward. He is engaged in no par ticular business at present, but contemplates, I believe, opening a small store there. Saturday, the last day of which I spoke, we visited at Mr. Dennings', in Calais. The next week passed off pleasantly, with no important occurrences that I remember which are worth noting. I might say, though, that Uncle Daniel went to Boston on Monday of that, and returned on Tuesday of the next, week. On Wednesday, the day after he came. Uncle D. K. C. drove up to the door with a coach and two, and invited us all to ride. We jumped aboard, of course, and started, uncle and I on the outside and the women in. Drove to Milltown and took Aunt Harriet aboard, then proceeded to visit the St. Stephen's cemetery. Uncle gave me the reins and changed seats himself with Hattie. The latter and myself monopolized the driver's seat dur ing most of the remainder of our ride, and I must say, I enjoyed it considerably better than the'previous arrange ment. From the ceinetery we rode down to St Stephen's, DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 55 back to MiUtown and home again. The afternoon was spent in a most decidedly pleasant manner. The next evening, Thursday, the 26th, we spent very pleasantly at Mr. Barnard's, in Calais. Friday was our longto-be- remembered sail boat excursion, of which, I presume, Mary has not omitted to teU you. Suffice it to say, that we left the wharf at half-past two p. m., in a sail boat, with the full intention of getting back to tea. Six girls and three boys made up the party. After having sailed down five miles or so, and determined to reverse our bearings and steer for home, we found that the wind had subsided. The tide was ebbing, and of course against us, and the consequence was, we had to lower our canvass and pull for home. We ran aground times without num ber, lost a man overboard once, and came near being cap sized, and all lost, by a large vessel, which none of us noticed until we were almost under her bow. We arrived at home, however, safe but "mighty tired" at about nine o'clock p. M. It is needless to say that hungrier chaps and lasses than we, you scarce ever saw. Saturday, my last week-day in Calais, was dull and rainy. In the forenoon Hattie had her ambrotype taken for me. In the afternoon we went up to Milltown and staid 'till Sunday noon. Uncle Alward and wife then came down to Calais, and the whole band of friends took dinner together at Aunt Harriet's. In the afternoon and evening we had our last social gathering. After the "old folks" had adjourned, we had quite a little train, notwith standing it was Sunday night. We wished, though, it had been another, for we were aU ripe for fun. And now, just two weeks ago this evening, (for it is now Sunday evening, — I" didn't write much yesterday), I felt as if the last sun for me in Calais had set, and I was sad. The attachments which I had always felt for my friends were 56 JUNIOR YEAR AT by that visit made far stronger, and when I thought that the darkness of a night only intervened between that and the time I must depart and return to my studies, I assure you I zvas sad. My attachments, which are not easily formed, but strong when they are once fixed, would have led me to tarry 'till now, if duty had not said "go." It seems to me that the last was the pleasantest vacation I have passed since my course began. The people down there are much more hospitable, I think, than Vermont or New Hampshire people. They are extremely attentive to strangers, willing to discommade themselves in any respect, if it shall conduce to the pleasure of their guests or the guests of their friends. I shall ever entertain a high idea of the hospitality of the inhabitants of the Pine Tree State. The old farm there is looking finely. George has had the house fixed up a little, the blinds painted and the yard cleaned up, so everything is quite cozy about it. He has the two rooms in the end of the house toward Milltown as his own special apartments. He enjoys his situation there finely, I should judge. I visited Uncle Munroe's grave while there — a thing I believe Mary neglected to do. I felt constrained to uncover my head as I approached the resting place of one whose memory I so much honor. A noble monument has been reared over his remains and those of his children. I went alone and meditated long there over the grave of that one whom I knew always held so large a share of your affec tion. I don't know as I can particularize on the personal appearance and condition of all our friends there. They are the same as ever. Hattie is a "jewel." Now, a word upon our' return. Monday morning, August 30th, we left Calais. Uncle Daniel, Uncle Alward and wife, George, Hattie and Mina accompanied us to DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 57 the wharf and saw us off. Oh, how earnestly did I seek to pierce the misty air for one more glance at them as we floated away, and when at last standing in the stern of the boat I saw the last wave of the handkerchief and then the dim outline of their forms fade away, I was sadder than ever before, and almost shed a tear. Sea sickness came on in the evening, but we braved it, and at five o'clock Tuesday morning landed in Portland. At nine we took the cars, arrived in Concord at one o'clock p. M., stayed there two hours, then took the cars for Lebanon, from which place we took stage for Han over, where we arrived at seven o'clock, p. m. — iny jour ney completed. For all the pleasure I experienced whUe away, to my kind parents be all thanks. I might mention that while gone I lost ten pounds of flesh. Since I returned, as I said in the beginning of my letter, I have been busily engaged in preparing our paper for the press. Also, I have been electioneering Freshmen some, and studying a little. And now, my dear mother, in closing, I have one favor to ask of you, and that is that you will write me. Was very glad to get your letter Friday, but there were a great many things you did not speak of in that, which I should like exceedingly well to hear about. For instance, father intended to grade the little hill there by the house, and put a wall between it and the road. Is he doing anything of the kind ? And I could ask you a thousand questions, if time and space would permit, but I've wearied'your patience now, I sup pose, almost beyond endurance, and I will only ask you to write — write about anything connected with the house and grounds or village, that will be new. Now I think of it, what kind of progress do you think your other son made last summer. I haven't learned whether you regarded his time as thrown away or the contrary. Tell 58 JUNIOR YEAR AT him he may send those things of which I gave him a list, by the valise, as many of them as he can get in. Wasn't that an awful fire the other night ? Give my regards to the family. They certainly have my sympathy. I am anxious to learn more of the particulars. You must take good care of Kate, if you've got her at our house. How is Lilly ? How does she look ? How I want to see her. By the way. Aunt Harriet asked me how often mother came down to see me when I was at Hanover. Of course I told her as it was, but I've asked myself a good many times since why you could'nt slip down here bye and bye, and give me a call. Won't you think of it ? This letter I would like to have grandpa see if he desires. Give my love to all, and to Ellen and Ada, if you see them. Adieu. Your most affectionate son. Hanover, October 10. 1858. Sunday evening. Dear Father : You must excuse me for not writing Saturday, for I took your letter from the post office at about five minute^ before one o'clock, and am obliged to be in the United Fraternity's Library from one to two p. m. each day, so that I was unable to go to my room to write you an answer before one, and after two it was too late. The reasons for my being connected with the library as I am, are these : The librarian elect left college this fall for the purpose of teaching and delegated his authority to one of his classmates (he was a senior) till he should return. I will say here, as perhaps you are not aware of it, that we have two parties in college, as distinct and as much opposed to each other as the Eepubhcan is to the DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 69 Democratic, that is, as far as college politics is concerned. Well, some of the opposite party to this librarian, in hunt ing over the constitution, found that there was no pro vision made for his being absent, and hence that he had, constitutionally, no right to be away, and they were loud in their clamors to the executive committee to depose him from office and order a new election. This executive committee, consisting of three, one from each of the three upper classes, has charge of all financial matters con nected with the society, and has power to depose the librarian, and are required to, by the constitution, if he neglects his duty. The Senior member of this commit tee is absent this term, and I, as the Junior member, have the whole charge of matters, with a little help only from the Sophomore member. Well, we deposed the librarian as we found we were obliged to by the constitu tion. But our party carried through a measure which probably will give him his office again when he returns. They voted to leave the library in the hands of the execu tive committee until Colby's (the librarian's) return, they to have complete charge of it, the same and even more completely than the librarian, for he is limited a good deal by the executives, they having a general supervision of it all the time. When Colby returns, which will be next month, we shall order a new election, when our party are confident of victory, and' that the officer whom we chose lost spring will be reinstated in his old place. I have to sit there from one to two each day, as I have mentioned before, for the charging and discharging of books. There are two assistants for taking down and putting up volumes, of which there are in the library, 8,000. So you see for three or four weeks to come, I shall have my hands full, as I have had for three past. But I like business, and the more important it is. 60 JUNIOR YEAR AT the more satisfaction I feel in doing it well. I didn't suppose I should write more than ten lines on this sub ject when I began, but when I found myself under way, I could not stop till I had told you the whole. I suppose it will not interest you much. I wish you and mother would come down and see me — come and view the comet through our large telescope. About the twenty-seven absences from church you spoke of — if you examine the bill you will find it says, "occasional absences from church and chapel — 27" Now church and chapel together we have to attend seventeen times a week. Truly, if I had been absent from the church as you supposed, twenty-seven times during the year, I should be ashamed of myself, but twenty-seven absences from church and chapel together during the year, does not bear so large a proportion to the whole number of exercises which we are obliged to attend there. These twenty-seven, too, were incurred mostly in not being back here promptly at the beginning of the terms, and by my visit home last summer. Won't you have Gage take your ambrotype and send it to me in the next valise ? Love to all. Good bye. Your affectionate son. Hanover, October 17, 1858. Dear Mother : I was somewhat at a loss one day the first of last week at receiving an old letter of mine addressed to you on the 4th of October, 1857. Will you please inform me for what purpose it was sent, or what you expected me to do with it. Accompanying it, however, was a very interest ing epistle from my youngest sister, her "maiden effort," I judge. May her love of letters never cease. Tell Lilly I am very proud of that letter, and that in after years DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 61 when she has learned to wield the pen with more grace than her brother can now, when she has learned, as I trust she will under your careful pilotage, to express her thoughts concisely and beautifully on paper, in words correctly spelled and constructed, and neatly written, then, perhaps, sometime when she has forgotten all about it, her eye may fall upon her "first letter to her brother." Your affectionate son. George. Hanover, November 16, 1858. Dear Father: If nothing happens, I can be at home this winter. Have engaged a man to take my place at Washington, who is to give me twelve dollars for the chance. I shall come up next week, probably. About Mary — although I should feel her absence from home this winter a great deal, yet I should say, for her greater good, let her go, if she can get suitable company out there, and if not, if she is confident of ability to travel independently. Affectionately yours, G. E. C. This engagement in Chamberlin and Fletcher's count ing room continued until March 4th, when the spring term opened at Dartmouth. There is no diary of the year 1858, but in the beginning of that of 1859, he men tions the evenings of the vacation varied by reading, weekly meetings of the "Literary and Social Club," "pleasant games of whist in my room with Mary Poland, grandfather and Carrie," drives to Concord, Lyndon Burke, etc. 62 JUNIOR YEAR AT Hanover, March 20, 1859. My Dear Mother: Of course you don't think I have forgotten or ceased to love my home, but wonder that loving it, I have long delayed what I know would gratify you so much. Almost everybody makes "want of time" the excuse for procrasti nation, whether they have really wanted it or not. But in my case this time the old worn out excuse is true. I went to work*on my studies the same day I left you, and have been studying and writing and reciting about every moment of daytime and evening since. I don't hesitate to say that I have not worked so busily for an equal time since I entered college. The studies we are now engaged in are not dry, nor very difficult, with the exception of Greek, but on the other hand quite interesting. At eight in the morning we have our Greek lesson, con sisting of two pages of Plato's writings — that part we are reading now being the last conversation of Socrates in prison, on the very same day he drank the poison, his subject, "The immortality of the soul." At eleven a. m. we recite natural philosophy, and at two p. m. have a lecture on the same by Professor Patterson, and then at four we recite in rhetoric. So you see we have to be in the recitation room four hours a day, which is pretty tedious, I assure you, in addition to what study we have to do in preparation. Besides these duties, I have had a composition to write which I read Friday afternoon last. If I got a leisure moment from my studies, I have been obliged to devote it to that. My subject was "Something about Men and Women." I must let you read it some time. It is hard on the now-a-day fashionable, nonsen sical, labor-despising ladies. Professor Patterson thinks everything of tlie horse I sent him. He wrote me to get him one that would sell DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 68 well in the spring, but you couldn't persuade him to sell this one. He has become as much attached to her as the man was of whom I bought her. I have the distinguished privilege of using her when I please. * * * I wish you would send me all the records of the Chase family you can find in the house. A young fellow by that name is preparing a valuable geneology. He has collected a good deal of information. Have Mary or Edward copy the records of the Chamberlins, and send, too. I want them put in to his book. Tell Cattie I have shaved off those whiskers she thought so much of, to-day. I am in good health and spirits. * * * Your affectionate son. Hanover, April 8, 1859. Dear Mother : Yours of last week was duly received, and I intended to have written you a word before this, but I have been prevented from so doing. I take your advice in good part, conyinced that it certainly applies to me as I have acted this term in reference to writing to my home, but there have been reasons for my conduct, and they are going to hold with me for two or three weeks to come, so that now I can't promise to be any more prompt for a time than I have been. I am troubled to death, almost, about my oration to be delivered before the college in two weeks from next Thursday. Don't say anything to anybody about it, and if you don't hear from me, con sider that your loss in that respect may be my gain. Tell Carrie that I am aware she has written one letter that I have not answered, and only one. I should be very much pleased to hear from her, but can't promise to write her this term. I will do it, however, if I can. I was very glad to get Lilly's miniature. . It's all I have 64 JUNIOR YEAR AT heard or had from her since I left. Has she got over the whooping cough ? Is Edward in the store, or what is he about ? Tell him he is inquired for often by students here. * * * Your very affectionate son. TO MARY. Hanover, April 10, 1859. My Dear Sister : What a lovely day is this ; how different from a week ago, and in fact anything connected with the two Sab baths seems to go by contraries with me. Then the weather was homesick, to-day it . is cheering ; then I heard a beautiful discourse- from President Lord, to-day I have listened to a most simple and nerveless one from of . Last Sabbath I was, like the day, gloomy, to-day my heart is light ; then I had my oration in prospectu and my idea of it was one of supreme dread, to-day it is finished and I look forward to the time of its delivery with not much fear ; then I remembered Charles as one of us, to-day I think of him as in another world. What glaring contraries are life and death. But what is life ? Is it not the soul ? If there can be no life without the soul, then that soul is the life. But what is the body ; is it anything ? Yes, it is a mere thing, sub serving the purposes of the soul, the life itself having no life in reality. But we are taught, and it would be diffi cult to convince us otherwise, that this life is never end ing ; that this soul shall exist forever. What, then, is death? What we call death, is not death, but life. 'Tis true, at a certain period of the soul's existence, it puts off, lays aside, that passive instrument with which, for a short time, it has been connected, the body, but when this takes place we do not die, but keep on living ; neither DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 66 does the body die for it never lived. It becomes inani mate, as they say, when the soul gets done with it. When I get done with this pen and lay it aside do I die ? When the soul gets done with the body and lays it aside, is there any necessity that it (the soul) should die ? That it should, seems to me to be contrary to reason. What we call death, then, is not death, and at the time when we say a man dies, he does not die, but lives right on. Then life and death are not "glaring contraries" as we hastily concluded, at first thought, but the same, that is, that part of us which was life continues to live ; in short, we who do live, though we lay aside the body after a short time, do not die, but live on forever. I suppose you wonder at my writing you such thoughts as these. It is a little strange, but I was led into this train of thought when I said that life and death were ' contraries. To be sure, if the soul, that which is life, should die, then life and death would be contraries. But it occurred to me very forcibly when I wrote the sentence, that in the general application of the word "death," it was not contrary to life; and so I told you my reasons for considering the assertion untrue, and in telling them. I have almost written, not a letter, but a couple of pages. I suppose you would like the letter now, and thank me for beginning it. * * * Our term is, as pehaps you are aware, now over half completed. It will close in four weeks from Thursday next. Then, methinks, I hear you cheerfully say, we shall see George home again. He would more cheerfully come, but probably will be prevented from so doing. I don't expect to see home again before the close of the summer term, just a year from the time we started for Maine. I am in good health and enjoying the term very —5 66 JUNIOR YEAR AT well. We have only two recitations per day at present, with three lectures per week. Kate is looking remark ably well, I think. She says Helen is not well. Tell her I am very sorry for her, indeed. Is Edward in the store, or what is he about ? How is Emma getting along ? Is she homesick? Is mother's health good? Write me soon all the news. Love to all the family. Your affectionate son. Hanover, April 12, 1859. My Dear Sister Carrie : I have set myself down to write you a few lines sooner than for some time past I have expected to be able. My studies have actually driven me since the term com menced, until now. And now I think the hardest is over and we may expect an easy time the remainder of the term. The class have a recitation in Latin and one in philosophy every other day. This afternoon I have nothing to do but read and write at my pleasure. Have written lately until I am pretty tired of it. A production which I have just finished is hanging over my shoulders waiting for delivery, which I suppose will take place April 21st, at about two o'clock, in the college chapel. My subject is "The Probable Expulsion of the Turks from Europe." One great obstacle to fetier writing here is that a fellow never has any news to tell, never has anything to say, which a girl of your good sense will immediately per ceive as a weighty reason why a person shouldn't under take to write too often. To be sure, if one hasn't anything to say, it is expected even then, that he will write once in a while just to keep his letters answered up and his friends in good himor, isn't it ? In reality, there is news DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 67 enough here, that is, we' college boys have plenty to chat about, but as a general thing it is not such as will be likely to amuse our friends abroad. Circumstances occcurred yesterday in our class which will afford material for laugh and talk through the col lege for a fortnight. A certain member of the class broke another's knife and gave him a new one which some thought was not so good as the one he broke. The class took the matter in hand and voted to have a trial on the case. Officers of the court were appointed, and at three p. m. the class assembled. The sheriff led the judge to the bench (who do you guess this judge was ? It wasn't anybody else,) and the assistant judge and clerk of the court took their seats. A jury was impanneled, the indictment read, witnesses examined, pleas were made, a charge was made to the jury, and by the latter a verdict was given, "that the defendant should treat the honorable court, the jury and counsel to pea nuts and beer." To-day a member of the class has issued twenty-one drawings, illustrating different scenes in the trial, and posted them on the chapel where they attract universal attention. It was a great occasion, and will be long remembered by the class of 1860. * * * Let me close by requesting you to remember me especially to Lady Macbeth and our friend Helen of chess memory, and to write me, all the news soon, and I sign myself Your affectionate brother. Thursday, April 28, 1859.— George Chase came to Hanover this noon. Have shown him all the "lions" this p. M., I believe. He goes to Boston to-morrow. He has persuaded me to accompany him. Friday, 29th.— In Boston. Hattie came on the Eastern boat. We gave her a fine surprise. Visited Howard Atheneum this p. m. and Boston Theatre, evening. 68 -JUNIOR YEAR AT Saturday, 30th.— Been to Boston Museum this p. m. Play acted was "Lord Timothy Dexter:" Funny thing. Spent evening at Bancroft's. Emily and Charlotte Chase came to-night, and were there. Sunday, May 1st.— Heard R. W. Emerson on Wealth this A. M. at Music Hall, and Starr King this evening at Hollls street church on doc trine of the Unity. It has been a lovely day. Monday, 2.— Left Boston at half-past seven this morning, and arrived in Hanover at half-past two p. m. Had a splendid time, and feel little like study, now I am back. This has been another pleasant day. Holi day In college. Hanover, June 5, 1869. Dear Father : Some of you, I'm thinking, will expect to hear from me to-morrow, it being two weeks or more since I have written. The vacatioii passed off pleasantly enough, although my work was pretty hard, and another term has commenced and is going on about after the old sort, only it does not seem much like summer, but more like "Winter dressed in green." I have received twenty-one dollars for what I worked in the library during the vaca tion, which, after paying my board for the time, leaves me seventeen dollars clear. This is more than my Boston trip cost me. * * * What do you think of my rooming alone next year, which will be my last here ? It will cost me, probably, twenty dollars, or about that, more than if I have a chum. I shall have a great deal of writing and speaking to do during the year, and should much rather be alone, and shall room alone if you will consent to it. I think it would be enough better for me, to pay.. You know I've had a chum ever since I've been in college, and in fact one can do so during any other year better than in the Senior. Then he wants to be alone, if it is possible. I suppose we shall draw for rooms this week. * * » DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 69 P. S. Mother's letter received. Tell her I'm not twenty- one yet, but have been wondering how I shall feel when that time comes. George. Hanover, June 12„ 1869. Dear Mother : If you could have seen me at a particular time during the last vacation, one evening after a hard day's work, when my mind sought pleasure and relaxation in, — I scarcely cared what — if your anxious spirit had been hovering over me in the latter part of that evening, as Mrs. Sullivan's did over her Willie, in the Lamplighter ; as hers did in his time of temptation, so would yours have gently taken me by the arm and led me off. I was invited to complete a quarto for a game of eucre in a neighboring room. This I cared not to deny, and did not. No sooner had I seated myself at the table than I discovered one of the four to be under the influence of strong drink. A fifth was in the room who was so drunk he could scarcely stand. Soon I noticed him staggering toward his closet from whence he brought out a gallon jug, from which he filled a tumbler with raw whiskey, and I was first invited to drink. 'And did you let that cup touch your lips,' I hear you ask. How could I resist ? It was pressed upon me. He said I must drink "just a little." All joined in pressing the invitation. But the cup passed to the next, and if you think these cir cumstances tempted me in the least, if you think that all their entreaties brought the faintest shadow of a resolu tion into my mind, to taste their fiery poison, you are mistaken in your son. I played with them a while, but left them at a seasonable hour to finish their revel with out me. There was more of this work going on during those two weeks than I have seen in my whole course 70 junior year at before. The term is slipping along pleasantly enough, though I don't feel as fresh for study as I like to. My work in vacation was rather too much for me. I'm thinking I shall enjoy my four weeks in August, more than usual. I want to get thoroughly rested in that time, and, too, I want it to be a pleasant rest, both to me and my friends. I smile when I think of the idea of my feel ings towards my parents being changed, and my becom ing a different being, as it were, when I pass the verge of one and twenty years, as though there were a parallel in the journey of life, at which when we have arrived and stepped over, the boy should depart from us, the love of friends and all the hallowed associations of home be enveloped in their winding sheet, and in their stead a solitary independence for a time, and then new loves, new friends, new interests take undivided possession of the human heart. If this be human nature, then I will boast that I am an exception. Some different sensations may affect one when he gains his majority, for instance he may have more lOve of country, more interest in pub lic affairs. But an increase of love of country need not be a detraction from love of friends, for the fount of love seems to me to be like a principle in gravitation, — if a hundred moons revolved around the earth there would be no less attraction for any one of them on account of there being a greater number. I've got a good many things to talk with you and father about when I see you. My college course is almost done, and I must soon choose a profession, and fit myself for the stern duties of life. Shall a happy life be my lot, or the contrary ? What a question. On one thing depends much as to its answer. That thing gives me too much trouble. But enough. Give jiiuch love to all the family, and write me soon. Your affectionate son. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 71 Hanover, June 20, 1869. (Before breakfast.) Dear Carrie : To be able to write a good letter is a rare accomplish ment. With so little authority as I should possess in such matters, it hardly becomes me to express an opinion, much less to give advice on the subject. But a moment or two of friendly suggestion, I'm sure, can hurt neither of us ; on the other hand if it be in accordance with common sense, it may profit us both — me in writing, you in reading. What, then, constitutes a good letter ? Originality and common sense must make up the idea, words well selected and sentences well turned must express it, and these must be written in a fair, legible hand, on a neat white sheet. Originality in a letter will always be admired. One's intellect, and even his char acter and tastes, wjU oftentimes be reflected from a letter he writes to a friend. To make one a good general writer, I think nothing is more conducive than seve:ce practice in letter writing. To write well is to express the thought of your own mind simply and handsomely on paper. In writing a letter the thought is more apt to be your own than in almost any other style of composition, and hence you are in your element, as it were. You are not strain ing away at ideas which are twenty years ahead of you, but you are engaged with those which are peculiar to your own mind at the time. If you can write a good letter now, if you can readily and symetrically express your common thoughts, as your , mind expands, as new thoughts and ideas are awakened, you will hold yourself in readiness to write them. I think careful study is more profitably applied to a familiar letter than to a long-drawn and would be high-flown academy composition, especially to those young in the art of writing. A silly girl can 72 JUNIOR YEAR AT never write a good letter, and although a silly letter is not proof positive of a silly writer, yet that is the general inference. Eepetition is a prominent fault among letter writers. It is tedious to the reader and should be care fully avoided. But science and rule, in letter writing, should not be carried so far as to give the production a stiff, formal tone. Of all other things a letter should be friendly, frank and open-hearted (where relations exist to make this proper, of course), it should have an easy con versational flow, with a thread of good nature running through the whole, and a little sharp wit interspersed, if the writer be at all inclined that way. But doubtless you think I have said enough on this subject. Perhaps it all seems trivial to you. No. I wrong you when I say that, for although what I have said may be ineffectual, yet the subject, itself, is one which yonr mind will have the sense to consider and not despise. From seemingly trivial circumstances we may get instruction and profit, and from anyone whose intentions are kind should we ever be willing to receive suggestion. I am getting along finely. To-morrow morning I shall recite in Latin the last time in college. Expect to have a fine time at home next vacation, reading and playing. It seems a good while since I left. Write me a good, long letter as soon as you can, containing all the news, etc. Much love to all the family. Adieu. Your affectionate brother. TO MARY. Hanover, July 3, 1869. Dear Sister: It strikes me that you were a little pert in your short letter of a week ago. You suppose I wish to stop the correspondence, do you ? Well, that remark did delay it DARTMOUTH COLLEGE.' 73 just one week. Two or three days previous to last Sun day, I had been blaming myself for not writing before, and had fixed upon that day, when I should write you a good, long letter, but Saturday your freezing note came, and not until to-day have I taken my pen to address you. I can hardly believe, after aU, that you meant what you said, for you know me too well to suspect that I should wish to stop correspondence with my sister, the nearest my own age. I am now twenty-one, you know. Last Saturday was the day when I passed from minority to majority, and now I am nominally my own ma«, although, virtually, I believe I am as much as ever, "my mother's boy." No change comes over me, either in looks or actions, and in about a month you may expect to see the same fellow at home, whom you have been accustomed to know by the name of G. E. C, etc. It seems an age since I have seen St. Johnsbury, and my friends, and I'm getting sick of staying away, and particularly of staying away and studying, this hot weather. I've had scarcely any recreation since our tour to Maine. You know I went into the store very soon after I got home, in the winter, and during the last two weeks' vacation, I was at work every hour. The next vacation is too short. It don't seem as if I could get one half enough jest in that time — four weeks. In two weeks we finish up studying for Junior year — then comes a week devoted to examination, and then the Commencement, after which I am a Senior, and one more year will com plete my college course. How the time goes. It is three full years since Ellen spent that summer at our house, when we used to have such tremendous trains. Three years ago to-morrow, it is, since we went to Burke and caught so many fish, up the little brook. In fact, it is three years to-night since we rode 74 JUNIOR YEAR AT up, for you remember we went the evening before the fourth. We had a celebration over the new Free Bridge, here on Friday, p. m. Professor Sanborn gave the address, and several gentlemen made speeches. Cannon were fired, and the occasion, on the whole, was made very pleasant. We have nothing here to-morrow. Have father and mother got home ? I have heard nothing at all from them. I shall write to father, thanking him for a splendid present of books he sent me from Boston, about a week since. It consisted of Irving's Life of Washington, five volumes ; Quincy's Life of John Q. Adams, and The Art of Extempore Speaking, beside five books, which I sent for, for immediate use, one of which is a very large and valuable Gazeteer of the World. It was the best present I ever had. * * » How is Lilly? I suppose she has grown so large that "Bub" can't play with her as a baby any more. * * * Write very soon to Your very affectionate brother. Hanover, July 3, 1859. My Dear Father : I know not whether you are in Boston, New York, or in our beautiful village of St. Johnsbury. I will write you a few lines and direct to the latter place, and doubt less they will come to you before long. If the books you sent, extra, were designed as a present to me, I want to acknowledge my gratitude for so splendid a gift. They were as unexpected to me as they are valuable. When I took the bundle from the express office, I thought it was very large for the number of books for which I sent, and when I opened it, and guessed that the books were all mine, through your generosity, my eyes doated on them as they can on nothing else. How much better are these DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 76 than the golden ornaments, or fine garments, or any of those superfluous things, which, not from bad intent, but poor judgment, parents sometimes give their chil dren. The books were well selected, all being standard works in American literature, and they will be ornaments to any library. I consider it by far the best present I ever got— something that will do me and others a per manent good, if rightly used. Again, I thank you for them, and assure you that I shall try and profit by their perusal. Would like to have you inform me of the price of the Webster's Dictionary, which was not for me, you remember, and I would like to know, too, the prices of all the books, if it will not be too much trouble to send me the bih. * * * i g^all be at home in less than four weeks. Good bye. Your affectionate son. The entry in his diary on Saturday, June 25, reads : "Pleasant. Received a splendid present of books from father, to-day. There were nine volumes, standard works, beside three text-books. Nobody has better parents than I. I will honor them as long as I live.,. TO Mary. Hanover, July 10, 1859. My Dear Sister: Your beautiful present * came to me safely on the day you sent it, for which you have my sincerest thanks. It was just as well that it came, when it did, as on my birth day, for I shall always consider it a birthday present, and the date will be easily remembered, because it was when I reached my twenty-first year — my majority. I have been wishing I had some such thing for some time. My presents all seem to be just what I want, and to come ? A watchguard. 76 JUNIOR YEAR. just when I want them. I think it argues well for the good judgment of my friends, the donors. * * * Write soon to yours very affectionately. Saturday, July 23d, 1859.— Came home to St. Johnsbury this p. M. Found grandma and George Edgell here. Family all well, and glad to see me, and I am glad to get home. It Is about five months since I left here before. Tuesday, 26th.— Been reading through the day. tinole and Aunt Edgell came this evening. Uncle Cooper and Scales, with their wives, are also here. A pretty jolly company. Thursday, 28th.— At Tinkerville, in Concord, with father. Uncle Edgell. and George. Arrived here about noon, on a pickerel fishing excursion. We have caught twenty pickerel and a few pouts. Friday, 29th.— Got home from Concord at about half-past seven o'clock. We got sixty pickerel. I caught twenty-four of them, having had the best luck of any in the company. We had a splendid time. Tuesday, August 2d.— Went into the store to keeping the books' In place of Charles Hallet, who is sick. Shall probably work more or less there through the vacation. Wednesday, 10th.— Came to Irasburgh to-night, by cars and stage Gave them quite a surprise. They are all glad to see me, and I antici pate a pleasant time. Thursday, 11th.— Been fishing with Uncle S. M. Edgell. Caught two good sized pickerel. In dressing one, a large hook was found in his belly. Am enjoying the visit. Rode out with Sarah. Saturday, ISth.— Started for home at six A. M., arrived at nine. As I was riding along on the engine, saw on the road, Hattie Chase, to my great joy. She has been at our house to-day. Her visit Is not less pleasant than unexpected. Father, mother, Lilly and Carrie gone to Irasburgh. Friday, 19th.— Henry Chase, grandpa, Hattie, Ada and Mary Chase, and Miss H. A. Hinsdale have been here to-day. Hattie will remain. Monday. 22d.— Carried Hattie to Lyndon this morning. Joe Chase took Mary. Dinner ai Uncle Chase's. Rode to Burke with Ada and Miss Hinsdale, and took tea. Called at Lyndon, coming back, bade Hattie good bye, and got home at half-past nine p. M. Tuesday, 23d.— Cooper girls came this p. m. Rode with Sarah this evening. Wednesday. 24th.— At Judge Poland's to a little party this evening. Was favorably Impressed with M. A.'s appearance. Thursday, 25th.— Social gathering at our house this evening. Most of the young folks of our acquaintance were present. Friday, 26th.— Lett home this morning, and got to Hanover at twelve o'clock. Been putting down carpet, etc. Chapter V. SENIOR YEAR AT DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. (1869-1860.) "There is work to be done, and I have made up my mind that only as I apply myself, only as I work, can I succeed." Letters from August 3,1859 to July 19,1860, Inclusive— Trip Home tor the Agricultural Fair in September— Mary at Abbott Female Seminary, Andover, Massachusetts— Edward in Boston attending Mercantile School— The Winter spent at Dartmouth in the Study of French and German— An Acceptance of Uncle and Aunt Edgell's Invitation to spend the coming Year with them— Graduation from College July 26, 1860— Summer Vacation at Home. St. Johnsbury, August 23, 1859, Dear Cousin Ellen : I've been feeling uneasy ever since I left your house about what I said to you in regard to our grip. I have reason to believe, that in a moment of exitement, I said that which must have wounded your naturally sensitive feelings. I beg your pardon for it, and hope that this circumstance will not mar in the least that affection which has so long existed between us. The Cooper girls came to-day. Why didn't you come this morning ? I expected you. Good-bye, if I don't see you again, and believe me, that for nothing in the world would I have you think me anything less than Your affectionate cousin and friend, George E. Chamberlin. 78 SENIOR YEAR AT Hanover, August 30, 1869. My Dear Father : As near as I can determine, the set (5 volumes) of Irving's Washington, which you got me in Boston, have ¦ been stolen from my room during the last vacation. I am certain I didn't carry them home ; however, there may be a bare possibility that I did, and I wish you would have the house searched, and drop me a line to-morrow morning as to the result, as I am quite uneasy about the matter. The books were in white pasteboard box, fitted to them just as they came from the publishers. Have just come from the depot, where I saw Mary. Hope you will find the books, but I don't expect it. Your affectionate son. September 5, 1859. Dear Father : I have been requested to-day by Doctor Crosby to take some part in the reception of an excursion party at this place, from St. Johnsbury, next Wednesday. Will you write me to-morrow what this excursion is to be, of how many to consist, from what denomination it is, if it be of any in particular, and all the particulars you can ascertain in relation to it, in order that we may know what to prepare and how to prepare. If this excursion is general, why can't some of you come down and make me a visit withal ? The children might come I should think. Write to-morrow without fail. In great haste. Yours truly, etc. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 79 Hanover, September 18, 1859. Dear Father : Our class are taking measures to procure their pictures' to exchange among themselves previous to graduation, and I want your opinion as to whether I shall be at that expense or not. It will be very pleasant for me to have the photographs of my class-mates, and probably every man in the class will have his picture taken. I should be called mean, doubtless, by a good many if I were not to get a picture, — but that will not affect me in the least if I conclude it is not best to have one. The expense will • not be less than twenty dollars. My expenses, you are no doubt aware, will be higher than those of any former year, and although I should highly prize the faces of my class-mates, nevertheless I shall cheerfully abide your judgment and opinion. I would like to say a word about my course this winter. You will recollect that none of my winters in college have been devoted to study. I have commenced the German language this fall as an extra study, and I would like very much to devote the winter to that and French, as I think I shall feel much better satisfied with myself at graduation, with a thorough knowledge of these languages, than otherwise. The French can be acquired much better and easier by going into a French family, and I think it is not very expensive studying in Canada ; or both lan guages may be studied here through the winter. Please give me your views on this subject also. I accompanied Edward to the Junction Thursday. TeU mother she needn't expect more than five up to the fair with me. I am anticipating a fine time. Please write me as soon as convenient. Your affectionate son. 80 SENIOR YEAR AT Hanover, September 25, 1859. Dear Ellen : Before another Sunday, I hope to see you face to face. I shall go to St. Johnsbury Wednesday p. m. next, and remain 'till Monday. Three or four of my class-mates will go home with me, to stay 'till Friday night. * * * Yoa will be down to witness the great "show," no doubt. If that is not your intention, I beg leave to expostulate with you a moment. It would be extremely foolish to remain at home when such an opportunity for innocent enjoyment presents itself. Why make a nun of yourself ? Then, again, you and I, in the future, probably, will have very limited opportunities of enjoying each other's society, and for this reason I hope we may meet at our house this week. But perhaps you say, "come to me, then, instead of expecting me down to see you." I simply say that, deo volente, I intend to see you before the week is up. Your letter was no less welcome than unexpected. Our cor respondence has been stagnant now for nearly two years, I think, and it seemed like shaking hands with an old friend to get your letter. Your chirography has changed, as I presume mine has, since we have corresponded. Not many years hence, perhaps I might say months, you will be married, and in a few more, so shall I. We may be thousands of miles apart, you performing the quiet duties of a loving wife, I battling with the rough world, working out my destiny, building for myself a reputation, plead ing at the bar for the rights of my fellow-men. Oh, what a prospect ! Dark and uncertain. But away, ye clouds of doubt ; duty bids proceed, labor, be honest, never fal ter, fix your purpose, concentrate your energies upon it, and pursue it with an undivided zeal. Ellen, there is work to be done, and I have made up my mind that only as I apply myself, only as I work, can I succeed. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 81 If there is any news to be told, I see I have not told it, and as I have filled up my sheet with stuff of another sort, I will defer all else until we meet. Love to you mother and the members of the family. Your affectionate cousin. Come down and stay over the Sabbath. TO MARY. Hanover, October 9, 1859. (Sunday night.) My Dear Sister : Your letter should'have been answered before, but my visit home, and the pressure of my studies since, on account of the absence, have prevented. I went up Wednesday, September 28th, and came back Monday, October 3d. You would know, of course, that I enjoyed the visit very much, though it seemed strange and lonesome at home, you and Edward being away. But I suppose we shall not be home all together much more in our lives. Very soon I must meet the stern duties of life alone, and probably far away from those who are now my dearest friends, and one by one we shall depart from home and settle down, perhaps each far separated from the others. The meetings we do enjoy must be most precious. The Fair passed off very pleasantly, as you have proba. bly learned from the Caledonian. Thursday and Friday were beautiful days. The balloon ascension was grand, but no better than the one three years ago. I had a strong notion to "go up." Was introduced to Professor Wise, and got the promise of going, if anybody went, but his arrangements wouldn't permit his taking anybody. —6 82 senior year at Four friends from here went home with me — Chandler, of Concord, Pierce, Brewster and Duncan, the Indian — all of whom seemed to enjoy their visit exceedingly well. Pierce only staid over with me till Monday. Sarah Cooper was down. I carried her to Lyndon Saturday. Ellen came down Thursday morning, and went back the same night. * * * The folks concluded, while I was at home, that it would be best for me to spend my winter here, so I shall go to St. Johnsbury again in a httle more than six weeks, and remain till our winter term com mences, which will be some seven weeks. Who will be there for me to associate with? It will be somewhat lonesome, though I sha'n't suffer much if I have books to read, as I shall. Carrie was flying about while I was there with her characteristic vigor. Tell me all about your school. My studies are hard, but interesting, and I am enjoying the term exceedingly. * * * Your affectionate brother. Dartmouth College, October 16, 1869. (Saturday evening.) Dear Sister Carrie : Perhaps you have again come to the conclusion that you are not to receive an answer to your last letter to your brother, but the missive has never been laid aside, and many times it has met my eye, and as many times seemed to demand my immediate attention. Sundry causes, however, have always interfered, until to-night I am actually seated at my table, fully_ determined that you shall wait no longer. Another week is closing — another week of toil ; a week I feel quite well satisfied with, because not much time has been lost. Do you think you realize how precious time — your time — is ? You are an exception to the general DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 83 rule if you do, and one of the most fortunate of human beings. There is so much to learn if one would know anything, and so little time to do it in. Therefore, if one learns, while young, to value properly and improve his time, he is fortunate indeed. You don't know what an incalculable benefit that Virgil you are reading may be to you if you master it. Carefully examine the shades of meaning for every word, and instead of translating hap- h^iZard, make your translation beautiful. Transform the noble Eoman tongue into elegant English. I wish you to study the Greek, sometime. It is a lovely language. Per haps you can recite to me this winter, while I am at home. I expect to be there seven weeks. You might recite to me during that time, and let it answer for your winter term. How did you endure the transition from the excitement of the Fair to the unaccustomed quiet of our home ? I always experience a sort of vacant sensation for awhile after such a time. Pierce and I arrived here safely at noon of the day we left, and commenced work with new vigor. All had a good time at St. Johnsbury. Chandler just in — sends regards. H. C. N. will be at home this winter. Ed. Eedington teaches near Bangor, Maine. I left a book at Howard's for you which I Suppose you got. Jane Eyre is a splendid book, both as regards style and story. Eead it for the sake of the style in which it is written, as well as for the story. When does school close? — some time before I come home ? I want you to think of that project of studying Greek. Eemember me in love, of course, to mother, father and the baby ( ? ) Write soon. Your affectionate brother. 84 SENIOR YEAR AT Hanover, October 20, 1859. My Dear Mother : I feel like writing you to-night, and guilty because I have not done it before. But if you have lost anything it has been my gain, and I am sure that you, who have ever been so willing to sacrifice for me, will cheerfully forgive me this time for withholding from you what little pleasure my letters might have afforded. As long as you know I'm well and in good habits, I suppose you are satisfied. Of these two things be assured. My health is good, I think I'm gaining flesh, and I'm sure I never loved any better, never admired any more, never was prouder of th&t which I possess myself ^a, good character, lifted above vice, meanness and dishonor. It's a prize, mother. And it's all owing to my parents, for who knows where or what I might be, without that watchful care which guided my younger days. Some would call this boasting, but I fear not that from you. The subject, and particu larly the friend I address, will warrant what I say. Do you want to know what I have been doing to-day ? Got up at 6f o'clock ; breakfast at 7 ; study till 8 ; prayers ; recitation in dramatic literature immediately after, under Professor Brown ; study from 9 to 11 ; reci tation from Edwa.rds on the Will to Professor Noyes from 11 to 12 ; reading from 12 to 12^ ; dinner ; reading from 1 to 2 p. M. ; public speaking in chapel half an hour ; after that go to post office ; from 3 to 3^ read news in Boston J ournal ; from 3^ to 5^, write ; prayers and supper ; after supper w.alk about a mile with J — C — ; came into my room at half past six ; hung my coats in the closet ; put on my gown ; changed boots for slippers ; started my fire, and sat down to this sheet. It is now 7, I shall finish the letter soon, and then write on my studies and an oration I am preparing, till 10, or after, as DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 85 my eyes will permit. Here is my day's work — a fair specimen of the employment of my time, excepting that I generally read more and write less than as above. Time was never so precious to me as now. Every minute has a value. If everybody would improve four years in study, I wish they could have it. * * * Your very affectionate son. Hanover, November 7, 1859. Dear Father: I have quite a desire to go up to Montpelier next Satur day, and see the new State House. You know I've never been into that part of the State. I can go for half-fare, which will be $2.50. Hotel bills there tiU Monday would be as much more, I suppose. I refer the matter to you. If you don't think it best, I can willingly wait till some future time. If I go there I shall have to have $45 to pay all my biUs — otherwise, $40. Please write me as soon as convenient about it. My health is pretty good ; am waiting anxiously for the term to close. Have studied enough for one term. Good night. Love to the family. Your affectionate, son. November 13, 1869. Dear Father : Yours of the 10th I did not receive till yesterday ; so, of course, should not go to Montpelier, not having heard from you before the time I had thought of going. I was not disappointed, but satisfied. I shall probably be at home Tuesday night of next week. * * * Your affectionate son. 86 SENIOR YEAR AT Hanover, November 13, 1859. My Dear Brother : Yours of November 3d was thankfully received. It gives me great pleasure to notice in each letter an improvement from the former one, in penmanship, com position and punctuation. From this I infer mach in regard to your habits and associations in the city. I infer, first, that you appreciate the privileges you are enjoying, and hence that you are improving them. I infer that you attend well to your studies, that you mingle with no degrading associates, that you are care fully observant of the manners and customs of the people you meet, and, in short, that while you stay in the city, you are continually learning, not only from the books you study, but from the very streets through which you walk, and from all the circumstances which so highly favor you. I am very glad that you have access to the Public Library, and still more glad that you appreciate the privilege. The books you have read are first-rate, and I hope you will read all the time you can spare from your studies and exercise. Exercise, you must not neglect. Health before everything else. * * * I anticipate a fine time for reading and study while I am at home. It will be strange to have you and Mary away, though I suppose you will be at home in the course of a few weeks, won't you? It will be the first Thanksgiving when we have been separated, and a pre cursor of many such festivals which will find us far, far apart. We can't expect to be together much more. Oi^e after another of us will drop off from the family trunk to seek a spot, where, solitary and unknown, we may plant ourselves. But the ties of kindred will still bind us, and although widely separated, yet in heart we will still be together. * * » Let me hear from you as soon as possible. Your affectionate brother. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 87 St. Johnsbury, December 26, 1859. Dear Sister Mary: If you feel as anxious to hear from me as we all are to hear from you once more, I am doubly sorry that I have delayed answering your last, so long. I feel guilty enough, but (and this is the worst of it) I have no good apology to offer. I am free to beg pardon for the offense, and to say that I will try and be a better boy in the future. Your letter was received very soon after I returned from Hanover. Since then, the course of my daily life might be expressed to you in a very few words. Beading has been my chief employment. Until Edward came. home, I was obliged to do the chores, which afforded a little variety to the habits of each day — a variety mihi non cupiendum, as you are probably aware. The first thing worthy of any notice after my arrival at home, was the Thanksgiving dinner, of which I presume you have heard. Mr. Sargent's family were in, and also Miss Sinclair. Nothing else breaks the dullness, which seems to be impending like a cloud over the village, till the session of court commences. This closed on Friday last. I spent hardly any time there. During the ses sion mother gave a six o'clock dinner. Had oysters, a turkey, etc., etc. Judge Poland and wife, Mr. Dana and wife, Benjamin Clark and wife, Mr. E. Hall ett» and wife and Mrs. Baxter were here. I took a notion not to be present, and so made a call on my friend Swasey that evening. The next thing 'that varied the even tenor of our way was a little party at Jennie's. I went late (nearly nine o'clock), found myself a stranger to a good many, and did not enjoy it as I used to my visits there last winter. Thursday, December 15th, Ellen came down with Mr. Goodwin. Jennie called twice, I believe, while she was here, and spent an afternoon and took tea. 88 SENIOR YEAR AT Ellen spent one afternoon with her. I went down in the evening to come home with Ellen — sat an hour, I should think. I like Jennie more and more. She is a smart, pleasant girl, and she will make Charlie an admirable wife. I took Ellen to Lyndon last Wednesday evening, starting at seven o'clock, and returning at ten. Made short calls at Uncle Scales' and Uncle Chase's. Uncle Scales is preaching again. Grandpa is very well, and as usual, reads politics most of his time. Uncle and Aunt Cooper, and Aunt Scales were here last week. We have had only one lecture during the winter, thus far, and that was last Friday evening, at the South Church, by Professor Brown, of Hanover. I was quite active, with others, in getting him here, and if you had been in the South Church that evening, you would have seen your brother in the pulpit, and heard him introduce the orator. To-day, as you know, is Christmas. Our presents came last evening. Mother gave Mrs. a calico dress, and Mrs. , the washerwoman, a pie and a cake. Lilly had trinkets without number. Carrie received a nice portfolio from father, a Balmoral ( ?) skirt from mother» and a sort of a scarf from her friend, Helen Hutchins. Edward got a volume of Bayard Taylor's Travels, from me; mother, "David Copperfield," from Carrie, and I, "Eeminiscenees of Eufus Choate," from Carrie, and "Life and Adventures of Alexander Von Humboldt," from mother. You must not feel slighted at this distribution, but wait patiently for the New Year's Express. I have read about eight volumes since I came home, and have enjoyed it better than training with the girls, I think. Of tjiis latter I hnve been entirely innocent, and expect to be all winter. I repair to the St. Johnsbury House (Swasey rooms there) about once a week, of an evening, and take a quiet game of whist with my friends DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 89 Eankin, Swasey and Ed. Fairbanks. With this exception, I am here in my room day and evening, almost all the time. I occupy the room in the northeast corner of the house. Ed. is in the parlor chamber for the present. there being only a single bed in my room. Carrie is studying Greek to me. She makes tolerable progress — yes, I will say good progress. Ed. has a lame foot, which prevents his walking only about the house and to the bam. Lilly does not go to school, but reads to mother. She says "Send sissy my love." Mother is very well. She was very much disappointed not to hear from you last night. Father is suffering a little from rheumatism. All of us above enumerated unite in sending much love, and our desires to hear from you immediately. I am, as ever. Your affectionate brother. There was a question in my last letter which you did not answer. Geo. Dartmouth, January 21,- 1860. My Dear Mother : I will write just a line, to accompany the valise, inform ing you of my good health, good spirits, etc. I am well and comfortably settled in my college rooms with George Pierce (who was at St. Johnsbury with me last fall) for a room-mate during the winter term. Am studying Ger man and French, and see nothing to hinder my making fine progress in both. The French pronunciation is extremely difficult for me, but I'm gaining upon it. What splendid weather we have had since I left home. I go skating every day for exercise, and fine exercise it is, too. A few of the village young ladies skate, though not many. They would all be glad enough to learn. Hope you will get Carrie some skates. 90 SENIOR YEAR AT About fifty students are here — enough to prevent its being lonely. I send some books to-day, which I hope wiUbe acceptable. Irving's "Sketch-book" is considered a splendid ornament to American literature. Carrie wiU like to read it, and you also, if you get time. The other two I thought would suit father and Ed. This (Saturday) afternoon we have no recitation, of course. Our regular hours are : German at 9 a. m., and French at 3 p. m. Have breakfast at eight o'clock. * * * Your affectionate son. Hanover, January 30, 1860. Dear Father and Mother : You will find herewith two letters which I received to day from St. Louis. These I want you to read and consider candidly, and write me this week, if possible, your opinions at length on the subject. I feel as though such letters ought to be acknowledged and answered without much delay. I forbear to express to you any inclinations of my own, but would desire you to weigh the matter uninfluenced ,by anything I shall say. I wrote Uncle E., as you will readily surmise by the letters, that I had entirely abandoned the idea of spending a year of my law course in St. Louis — thanked him for his intimation that, under certain circumstances, I might be admitted to his family, but told him I could never think of this, taking into account my aunt's feeble health, etc'. All this was by the advice and consent of my parents. In a short time came these letters which I hand you. I have never broached the subject to both of you concerning my support during the time of studying my profession. I shall feel much more at rest to know something about this before graduation, and therefore will request you to take this subject also into consideration, and write me DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 91 concernmg it, if you think fit. I shall through life entertain a deep gratitude for what you will have assisted me in my collegiate education, and should you see fit to withhold that assistance at my graduation, not a murmur of complaint could in reason escape my tongue. I could then thank you, and rest satisfied. But money must of course be had for the completion of my studies. This will probably be furnished in one of three ways, viz : by borrowing, by earning beforehand myself, or by your bounty. It is my desire to enter upon the study of law soon after I graduate, which if I do, these methods will be reduced to two. Now, you have four others to edu cate, from whom I entreat you to withhold nothing for my gain. You have the comforts of life to provide for, and no dollar would I take, which being taken would detract a single iota from your comfort and happiness cluring that period of life. If after taking all these things into account, you could willingly spare me of your sub stance, I need not tell you how gratefully it would be received. If not, be not slow to tell me so, and my own right arm shall be raised immediately for the contest. If I teach awhile, it is time to be seeking a good situation. I have spoken frankly, as I think the subject demands, and I hope you will write me in return a long letter, full of counsel relative to that change in my course of life which is soon to take place. I again express my grati tude for all you have done for me, and if your circum stances should ever require a return, doubt not but that I shall be always ready to strain every nerve until every thing be restored, and that many fold, if necessary. I am your ever affectionate and dutiful son. P. S. Please return the two letters. 92 SENIOR YEAR AT Hanover, N. H., February 4, 1860. My Dear Aunt : Such letters as I received from you and my uncle must not remain long unacknowledged, though they may be, for a time, unanswered. How can I express my grati tude to you both for such unexpected, unmerited kind ness? I did not deserve it at your hands, and words would fail to express the emotions of thankfulness which it called up from my heart, on the perusal of the letters. Your invitation is so cordial and generous, that I per suade myself with difficulty from an immediate accept ance, but my better judgment compels me to wait, to consider, and be careful not to place myself in circum stances to augment unduly the cares of those who would assume such cares willingly, and without a mur mur. You, my dear aunt, I have heard my mother say, in your zealous interest for friends, are inclined to be regardless of your own health and comfort, and know not how to cease in your endeavors, until complete exhaustion compels you to. On this account, partly, I hesitate. But the whole matter, as you requested, shall be "reconsidered," and after some further consultation with my parents, I will immediately acquaint you with our determination. The advantages of a year's residence in St. Louis, and that particularly in your family, would be to me of great value, and such residence might, as you suggest, save me a year of "experiment" after I am admitted to practice. I beg you not to impute this delay to any desire on my part to tamper with your generosity, or to induce you to urge your request any more strongly. Nothing could be more cordial, nothing more generous than your invitation, and I hesitate only on what appear to me to be good grounds. I expect soon DARTlVfOUTH COLLEGE. 93 to hear from father and mother at length on the subject, and I shall be able, I think, in the course of a very few weeks to answer your kind letters. I am enjoying the winter term exceedingly — its work and its play. Am drilling on the elements of German and French for study, and for sport and exercise we all skate. I suppose you have no skating at all in St. Louis. Ladies, in considerable numbers, are seen on the ice here almost every day. Give much love to all the family, and believe me Your affectionate and grateful nephew. TO MARY. Hanover, February 5, 1860. Dear Sister : Your welcome but long delayed letter was duly received, and I am going to answer promptly. When I wrote you last I was at our dear home, from which you have been absent so long. You and I are not to be there together much more, I fear. The days are now fast approaching when I, at any rate, must be looking out for a home for myself. Probably I shall not pursue my professional studies at St. Johnsbury, or any part of them. I may, however, — this is yet somewhat uncertain. I left home on the twelfth of last month, since which time I have been plodding along the well beaten track of college routine, varied a little on account of its being the winter term, at which I have never been present before. I am studying German and French, and enjoy both lan guages, though the French pronunciation seems to me to be almost unattainable. The German is quite difficult, but I get it easier than the ,French. We have com- 94 SENIOR YEAR AT menced reading in both. For exercise and sport, we all skate. I have a fine pair of skates, and use them nearly every day. The ladies of Hanover skate considerably, although there are no fine skaters among them. They are just beginning. Am glad you have learned the sport, it is so exhilirating. Such exercise, I should think, would actually put a new life into the confined, hot-house inmates of a female school. Why didn't you write me about your sickness ? I had heard not a word, about it. * * * You speak of meeting Messrs. C — and P — , "my friends." I am getting friends from unexpected quarters. Neither of them were my friends in college. C — was merely a "bowing" acquaintance. I hardly ever spoke to him, and consider myself fortunate that the acquaintance never extended further. He was known in college as a sort of bombastic simpleton. With P — my acquaintance was a little more extensive, and though I have some respect for his talents, yet I own I have no very pleasing recollections of the man. U — V — lacks both talent and sense. He is vulgar, weak and simple. Of cowrse you will keep these remarks inviolably secret. Perhaps I have spoken too freely. I agree with your opinion of W. X. I have no respect for him. My acquaintance with him is very limited. Well, really, these mutual acquaintances of ours, according to my story, bring us but little credit. You know I am very select in my associates. I want first-rate company or none. Perhaps I'm a little bit aristocratic. » * * I have a room-mate for the winter t erm— George Pierce, Jr., of my class. Please give me another letter as long and as good as your last, very soon. Good bye; Your very affectionate brother. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 96 Hanover, February 12, 1860. (Sunday evening.) Dear Mother : Your letter and father's were received in due time, and perhaps ought to have been acknowledged before, but I've had so many letters to write of late, that it has not been convenient for me so to do. For both your letters, their advice, their proposals, etc., I felt, and still feel, and ever shall, most truly grateful. From them I have the comfort of knowing that there are those in whose hearts my welfare holds a large place — who are ready and willing to put the shoulder to the beam, and to give me every reasonable assistance in their power in launch ing my ship out upon the Ocean of Life. May it after that have a smooth sail, and when the voyage is over, with the flag of honor at its masthead, may it joyfully put into that harbor where the Master waits to say "well done". May the career of each one of your offspring be such as to fill the days of your old age with peace. I wrote my acknowledgements for their kindness to Aunt and Uncle Edgell, a week since, and told them to expect my decision in the course of a very few weeks. Father expresses doubt as to the year I had better spend there. It is my opinion the first would be the one, but I'm going to ask the advice of some gentlemen of the profession before I decide upon it. I have almost had a cold for the past two or three days, but I think by a little care I shall escape it. I began to feel the symptoms on Friday, and yesterday I denied myself the pleasure of skating, and staid in the house all day, in order to drive it off. I feel better to-day, and expect to-morrow to be entirely well. Am getting along finely with my German and French. We are translating 96 SENIOR YEAR AT about a page per day in each. I shall not, of course, be able to converse in either, from studying them so short a time. The winter term will close in two weeks, and then there will be the whole of the spring term before I shall see you again. Well, I shall be contented. There's but little time now for me to spend here, and that little must be improved. I shall be content to work hard. How does Carrie like skating? Better than Greek ? If so, I think she will make a good skater sometime. If you get tired of Lilly you may send her down to me. I'll guarantee her a welcome, a kiss, good hving and good company. Was glad to receive Edward's letter. Love to all. Good night. Your affectionate son. St. Johnsbury, March 6, 1860. My Dear Uncle and Aunt: You will be surprised at my being here, but a few words will set you right. At the close of the winter term we were to have a short vacation of a week, which I expected to spend at Hanover, but in view of the great question which was to be decided, and some other things which could be better arranged at home, it was thought best for me to come to St. Johnsbury and spend the few days. I came Wednesday, February 22d. The next Saturday morning I was taken sick, and confined to my bed almost a week. I am now recovering as rapidly as could be expected, and hope to go back in a very few days. With regard to spending the next year in St. Louis, it has been agreed by all that I may accept your most kind and cordial invitation, and if when next summer comes- you are all well and feel that my stay will not be burden. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 97 some to you, I shall expect to go. Of course, if any cir cumstances should transpire rendering it inconvenient for you to receive me, you wiU not hesitate to inform me to that effect. I shall graduate the last of July, and shall need a vacation of a month or more, I suppose, before I leave home. The time, route, etc., I shall leave principally to your direction, as the season approaches for me to go. I suppose there is little necessity of reiterating here my thanks for your generosity. My heart is full of gratitude, and I hope you will not consider it to be from any lack of it, that I don't devote pages of paper in endeavoring to express that for which my words are not adequate. In regard to a law office where I may study, I hardly know whether any arrangement is necessary or not, before I get there. If there was an opportunity in any office which you entirely approved, and which would be likely to be taken between now and September, I would think best to have it spoken for. But I shall know better what to say about this after I hear from you. I would like to study in an office of considerable business, and of the best kind of business in the city. I would wish also to have my instructor an honest man, and one who would be willing to communicate his knowledge to a student. I would prefer to study with a college graduate, rather than one who is not. All are well at home, and unite in sending their love, as well as their heartiest thanks for your kindness to me. We expect Mary home from Andover in a fortnight. The weather has been beautiful of late — hardly any snow on the ground at present. In hope of hearing from you soon, I am Your affectionate and obliged nephew; 98 SENIOR YEAR AT. Hanover, AprU 1, 1860. My Dear Brother : You wrote me a letter in February last, which I pre- ' sume you think ought to be answered by this time. I do, certainly, but stiU I hardly know how I'm going to do it, as I haven't the slightest bit of news, I believe, to tell either you or any of the rest at home. I suppose you are aU enjoying Mary's vacation. I should like to be with you, but stiU I probably couldn't be persuaded to leave Hanover at present, except by reasons of necessity. Outside pleasures will have little attraction for me during the few months which remain of my college course. The work is almost done, and I want to finish it up thoroughly. One of my classmates left college last week to accept an offer of one thousand doUars a year. I hardly think one of five thousand dollars would be entertained in my mind ten minutes, if it must be accepted at the expense of leaving college at this stage of the course. I can hardly realize that the four years which looked so long in 1856, have now almost passed away. Four precious years they will have been. If I hadn't come to college, I know my life would have been full of the bitterest regret from the loss of so great'a privilege. An education is a patri mony I would choose rather than much of what the world holds most valuable. We expect the parts for Commencement will be drawn next week, when you shall immediately be informed whether or not I am to appear on the stage. I'm rather in hopes to escape the lot, and to be left more free and at my leisure during the summer. My health is very good. Am rolling ten pins an hour each day, at a cost of only ninepence per week. Have regained my usual weight. Please remind Carrie that she' owes me a letter. Give much love to all, and write as soon as convenient. I am as ever. Your very affectionate brother. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 99 Hanover, Arpil 22, 1860. Dear Mother : As a delay may render it uncertain about your get ting good accommodations at Commencement, I wish you would write me this week how many of you intend to be here, that I may secure rooms immediately. I sup pose you nor father wiU faU of hearing Everett, and I should Uke to have you come Tuesday noon and stay tUl Thursday night, or Friday, so as to see the "whole performance." We are feeling grandly about having engaged Everett as our orator, and are hoping and expecting that the Com mencement wUl be the fmest one that has been held here for many years. I suppose you will let Carrie come, won't you ? Perhaps Edward got so tired of the one he attended two years ago here, that he won't want to come down. I recollect keeping him here through Com mencement rather against his will. I shall commence reading to-morrow, in preparation for writing my piece. It is a wide subject, * and requires, in order to its proper handling, a knowledge of the circumstances under which ancient oratory flourished, and an inquiry into the causes which tend to develop oratory at the present day. To this end I shaU read histories of the times of the most eminent orators, ancient and modern, and also distinct lives of a few of them. How fast the time goes. The spring term is almost done, closing in a little more than two weeks. Then a short term of nine weeks wUl send us away from "Old Dartmouth, " and scatter us over the world. Our studies at present are geology and Eeid's InteUec- tual Powers, the latter of which is very difficult, indeed — I think the hardest book we have yet studied. We are also having lectures on, and recitations in, the French *"The Fields of Ancient and Modern Oratory Compared." 100 SENIOR YEAR AT language. It is optional with us whether we study this, or not. I thought it best not to let slip so good an oppor tunity of getting a little more French, even at the expense of increased labor on these pleasant spring afternoons. My health continues good. For exercise, since I quitted bowling, I have taken a five mile walk each evening after tea. I have eaten no bread but graham all the term, and like it now better than the white. Beef is my principal meat. Do you know if any of the friends north are coming down to Commencement ? If so, please inform me who— though I shall engage no rooms for any until I am requested. Mary is going to bring a friend from Andover, I believe. Write me all the news at home. Edward and Carrie both ought to have answered me before this. Love to father, Lilly and all, from Yours very affectionately. to mary on her return to andover after a trip home. Dartmouth College, AprU 22, 1860, Dear Sister: You did not know how near I came to not getting aboard the northern train the other day. It had started before we had got to the platform of your car, and it took a pretty dextrous jump to get across from one train to the other. I heard through mother that you arrived in good time, and found among other new ones, Mina Chase there. It must be pleasant for her and you too. You will have many things in common to speak about. Hattie, in her last letter, said she would stop at Andover on her return. I would like to be there then. Should expect to have a rich time with all three of you there. I I have been invited to spend a week of the coming vaca- DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 101 tion with a class-mate in the vicinity of Boston — visiting LoweU, Lawrence, Salem, Andover and other towns about there, besides spending a day or two in Boston. It would be very pleasant, but I hardly ought to think of doing it just now, when I am obliged to spend so much in college. Very likely you have noticed in the papers before this, that Edward Everett has accepted our invitation, and will deliver an oration here at Commencement. We are feeling grandly about it, and are expecting to have the best time here that has been known for many years. I shall engage rooms, shall I, for you and your friend through Commencement ? I have not begun on my piece yet, but shall commence reading to-morrow with a view to it. Our studies are pretty hard just at present, especiaUy Eeid's InteUectual Powers, which is the most difficult thing, I think, we have had in coUege. Am studying French a little. We have about three recita tions in, and two lectures on, the language each week. You remember the supper I told you we were going to have in the evening of the same day I saw you. It proved to be a most splendid affair. Almost every mem ber of the class was there, and the utmost harmony pre vailed throughout. The supper was fine and "The feast of reason and the fiow of soul" was especially attractive. On the whole, it was the joUiest, best time I have had in college. Do you read much, besides on your studies? You ought to devote an hour or two, I should think, to mis cellaneous reading — to storing your mind with knowledge a Uttle more general than your studies afford. This would give variety to your school life, and an acquaint ance with literature which would be very pleasant and useful in after life. You would like Irving's works— The 102 SENIOR YEAR AT Sketch Book— Goldsmith— Tales of a Traveler— Conquest of Grenada, or almost any of them. You must send me a good, long letter soon. Give my love to Mina, and tell her she must not get homesick. "Won't she go home with you this summer ? Good night. Your a^ectionate brother. Hanover, May 13, 1860. (Sunday evening.) Dear Mother : Your letter was received yesterday noon, and I should have both answered it and sent the vaUse, if circum stances had not intervened to hinder. The libraries were opened between one and half-past one, and wishing to consult some books, I spent the half hour there instead of writing to you. After the library was closed I carried the valise to the express office, but it was too late — the coach had gone. Now, as to the subject matter of your letter. I do not think it possible you want me to come home merely for the sake of seeing me, but rather because you fear I may injure myself by studying here in vacation. Is not that near the truth of the case ? Now let me explain. It seemed to me best in the first place, to get the principal part of the work of my piece done in the vacation, so that it might not oppress me during the hot weather of next term, as an addition to my regular studies. In the second place, I thought it better to be here, where access can be had to books of all sorts, where it is quiet and pleasant, where I can sit down to my writing just when I am in the right mood, and exercise, rest, or attend to business of other sorts, when I do not feel like working on my piece, where, better than any other place, I can study, than to go home and be off fishing one day, to Lyndon the next, to Burke the next, etc, etc, DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, 103 thus disturbing any regular hours I might aUot, and dis arranging what few ideas I might be so fortunate as to have, and very likely postponing the heft of my work till next term. In the third place, I will tell you the routine I have adopted, if I stay. In the forenoon, work the greater part of the time on oration. In the afternoon, exercise some (if the weather is not too oppressive), lie on the grass, visit, talk, laugh and have a good time, get the maU, etc., etc. After supper exercise two hours or more. Now, I should enjoy spending the vacation at my dear home more than anything else, but for the reasons men tioned, I have thought it best to stay. If you think these insufficient, and stiU insist on my going home, I will go as soon as I get word from you to that effect. I am very well, and hope yet to graduate not an invalid. Give much love to all, and write very soon. Your very affectionate son. TO MARY. Hanover, June 17, 1860. Dear Sister. You need not fear but that your letters are always welcome to me. I have been wondering for some time before yours of last week came, why you did not write, and had begun to think you were rather neglecting me. You must be more prompt. It seldom happens that I am too busy to answer a letter in a reasonable time after its receipt, and especially if the correspondent is one I prize. You had no reason to be dissatisfied with such a letter as you wrote me last. It was very interesting, and for the reason that you selected interesting items of news, and told them in a simple, natural way. You ask the secret of writing a sensible letter. I wish I could tell you. 104 SENIOR YEAR AT My only rules are, let the matter be not strained or labored, but the natural, spontaneous out-flow of the heart, avoid all repetition, let the style be easy and familiar, cultivate brevity and conciseness of expression, I know I do not adhere to these rules so closely as would be for my interest, but we cannot expect to be perfect in anything, and if we try to do weU a partial failure is no disgrace. * * * Is it certain that your friend from Manchester wUl be here with you ? I have engaged, now, three rooms — one for you two, one for mother and Carrie, and one for Emily and Ada Chase. Ellen wrote me a day or two since to engage one for her, which I shall try to do soon. Indeed, I should consider it good news to learn that Hattie was really coming to Commencement. * * * Everything is lively here now. The great event of the year is close at hand, and all is preparation. This is the most interesting time for the Seniors in their course. They are preparing their orations, exchanging pictures, getting their graduating suits, enjoying their last social gatherings, anticipating good times with their friends at Commencement, and preparing in general to bid adieu to those scenes which have been so fraught with interest for them during their four years sojourn in Dartmouth. My oration is not yet completed. Hope to get it done this week. Am glad to know that the Kittredges are to return to St. Johnsbury. We must have some of our old- fashioned good times after we all get home. Carrie writes me that EUen will probably be married this fall and go to Columbus, Ohio, with Mr. Goodwin. Do you expect to go to Andover another year ? You and I will probably be a good ways from each other next year. I am anticipating a very pleasant stay at St. Louis. I have several acquaintances in the city besides DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 105 at Uncle Edgell's. WhUe there, I want to go to Kansas City and Wyandotte, to see the country and friends who are there. In going out, I want to stop at the principal cities on the way, thus gaining all the knowledge of our country that I can, while away. * * * Your affectionate brother. Hanover, July 19, 1860. Dear Father: I have got to have fifty dollars more to graduate with. This is about twenty-five dollars more than I thought would be necessary, but there are a thousand little expenses coming up this summer which I never had thought of. I think any one who has been to college will tell you that they under-estimated for the last term. I have got along just as cheaply as I could and be respect able. If a class-mate asks me in to take an ice cream, I can neither refuse, nor with decency, omit to return the compliment at some other time. .This fifty dollars wUl bring my college expenses up to $1137. My examination passed off finely, and I am at leisure now until the time I speak, at Commencement. Your very affectionate son. I hope you will not fail to come down Wednesday. G. 106 SENIOR YEAR AT I subjoin a few extracts from his diary to recall that happy summer. Friday, July 20.— Sister Carrie came down to-day, to spend the few days before Commencement at Mr. Hazen's, In Hartford. I took tea with them. Called at Professor Sanborn's. Young Hazen, his sister and Carrie came over to witness the Sophomore supper. Sunday, 22.— A beautiful day. Pre^dent Lord preached our bacca laureate discourse this p. m. Text, I Cor. 2; 2. He set Paul before young men as an example. It was a powerful and impressive discourse. Sister Carrie was over. Monday. 23.— Sister Mary, her friend Miss Hunt, Aunt H. N. Chase. Hattie and Mina came to Hanover this afternoon to spend Commence ment. Took Hattie, Mary and Miss Hunt to ride this evening. I antici pate a splendid week with my friends. Tuesday, 24.— Father, mother, Carrie, Ada and Emily Chase came to town to-day. Class exercises passed off finely. Mr. Cuyler's address. this evening, was splendid. Gen. Pierce, Mr. Cuyler, etc., were sere naded. I was out with Hattie and Ada. Wednesday, 25.— Mr. Everett did not speak to us to-day, much to the disappointment of all. His health did not permit him to come. The other exercises have passed off well. Took Hattie and Ada to concert this evening. Fine time. Thursday,26.— Got the ladies good seats In the church this morning. Spoke my piece about two o'clock. The boys did finely as a whole. After speaking we took our degrees, and then proceeded to the Dart mouth Hotel and partook ot the Alumni dinner. Professor Sanborn made a good speech. Levee in libraries this evening. Took Hattie. Good time. * * * Tuesday, 14.— Social gathering at Town Hall this evening. None from our house attended. Had a good time at home playing cards, dancing, etc. Wednesday. 15.— State Teacher's Association commenced its session to-day. H.ittie, Ada and Emily came down. Managerie at depot. Attended with Lillie. Heard Mr. Rankin lecture at church this evening. Wednesday. 22.— Fishing excursion and pic-nic at East Haven. Pres ent: Hattie Chase, Ellen M. C, Miss Morse, Mary A. C, Elam Newell, Ed. Redington and myself. I very seldom enjoy a day as I have this. We got home at midnight. Here follow the records of several days, mentioning the daily exchange of visits between the large circle of relatives gathered at Lyndon and St. Johnsbury, then, Tuesday, Sept. 4.— Aunt Harriet Chase and Mina and Mary Chamber lin left this morning for Andover. Saw Arthur Little at depot. He has taken the Lyndon Academy for a while. DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. 107 * * * Tuesday, Uth.— Aunt H. Alward left tor home this morning. Rode to Lyndon this p. m. with father. Shall stay at Uncle Chase's to-night, and go home by oars in the morning. Wednesday, 12— Hattie left this morning for Calais. Rode from Lyn don to St. Johnsbury with her. * * * Monday, 17.— Rode to Lyndon this afternoon, partly on busi ness and partly to bid the friends good-bye. Arthur Little rode down with me and will return in the morning. Tuesday, 18.— Mr. Goodwin and Ellen were down to-day. They are to be married Thursday week. They have invited me to be groomsman, but my arrangements are made to leave for St. Louis next Friday morn ing. H. Chase and Ada called this evening. Friday, 21.— Left St. Johnsbury for St. Louis, with father. Had a very pleasant ride down the Connecticut to Sringfield. H. C. Welch met me at Hanover. Came from Springfield to Albany this evening. Am stopping at the Delevan House. Chapter VI. STUDYING LAW AT ST. LOUIS. (1860-1861.) "Thou, too, sail on, O ship of State! Sail on, O Union, strong and great! Humanity with all its fears. With all the hopes^for future years. Is hanging breathless on thy fate!" Longfellow— TTie Building. of the Ship. "May God avert the political trouble which the New Year witnesses, and help me to make this a profitable -yeax."— Diary January 1, 1861. Letters from September 24,1860, to June 17, 1861, Inclusive- Journey to St Louis with Father, via Niagara Falls— First Impressions ot the West— Mutterlngs of War— His Political Views— Second Visit of Father to the West— The taking of Camp Jackson— A Trip Into Iowa— Mary at Andover. Mont Eagle House, Suspension Bridge. Saturday night, September 24, 1860. Dear Mother : It is now ten o'clock. We arrived about an hour ago in the midst of a hard rain. The night is dark, and of course we havn't seen the bridge, or any of the wonders of Niagara. As I write, however, I can hear the old Falls roaring in the distance. Father and I are in the same room, — he in bed. No incidents worthy of remark have occurred during our ride. We have thus far had a quiet, comfortable and propitious journey. The weather has been beautiful for traveling ever since we started, with the exception of a few minutes rain to-night. We arrived in Albany last night about eleven o'clock, and staid over. Studying law IN st. louIs. 109 but didn't get much sleep. The country we have ridden over to-day is exceedingly fine, — the valley of the Mohawk and the country off Lake Ontario. We have not seen a familiar face since G. I. left us last night at Albany, but a host of unfamiliar ones. Sunday Evening. We have to-day seen the awful beauties of Niagara. You need none of my description. Suffice it to say, that in a quiet way we have visited most of the points of interest in the vicinity, and are pretty tired. Father has retired. I have felt through the day that Nature's Tem ple was as good, if not better, for God's worship than any man could build. We start to-morrow at half -past ten for the West, — stUl going farther and farther from home. It seems a little sad to think so. Hope you do not miss me much. * * * P. S. Ortonville is being sung in the parlor. It reminds me of home, of course.* Father has the door open listen ing. George. Briggs House, Chicago, Illinois, September 25, 1860. Dear Mother : Arrived here alone and all right about an hour since. Had a beautiful ride around the shore of Lake Michigan and by the prairies of Illinois. Father and I separated at Calumet, a few miles below here, he being bound directly for St. Louis to-night. He will arrive there between seven. and eight o'clock to-morrow morning. I leave here at six thirty-five in the morning, and arrive at * "How sweet the name ot Jesus sounds," sung to the tune of Orton ville, was our father's favorite hymn, and was never omitted in the Sunday night singing in our St. Johnsbury home. "Gently Lord, 0 gently lead us," and "Jesus lover of my soul," have the same precious associations. 110 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS, about eight in the evening. We spent last night in Detroit, Am surprised at the size of Chicago, from just my short ride to this hotel. It is a much more substan tial city than I had thought. For all particulars you must wait untU I have more time. I have many interest ing ones to teU you. You shaU soon hear again. Love to all. Your affectionate son. TO MARY. St. Louis, Missouri, September 29, 1860. (Saturday evening.) My Dear Sister : There has not a day passed since receipt of your last at St. Johnsbury, but I have thought of your disappoint ment in reference to the composition, and regretted much that you needed the information at just that particular juncture. Only one day intervened between the letter's arrival and my departure, and our start being so sudden, of course I was obliged to shoot time on the wing, so that it really seemed impossible to answer your letter then, I hope you failed in the exercise, and that you wUl refuse to write on every occasion when the subject is so palpa bly unsuitable. Your teacher ought to have known better than to give such. But you shall have my first letter from St. Louis, if that will afford you a shadow of relief from the disappointment. I have not taken up my pen before since our arrival in the city, and I hardly know where to begin. There is so much, that I cannot tell you aU, and it is difficult to select the best. You probably know that we started Friday of last week. If I had had my own way, I should have left Thursday morning, spend ing Thursday night at Andover, and met father at Spring field Friday evening. The reason why he thought it not best, I really cannot tell you. The expense would have STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. Ill been about the same. As it was, we went by Springfield to Albany Friday, arriving there at eleven o'clock p. m. Saturday we went on to Niagara Falls, where we spent the Sabbath. I need not tell you that I enjoyed the visit to this first of Nature's works. 0, it is a grand sight, and IJiope you may see it before many years. Sunday night a misfortune overtook me in the shape of a severe attack of cholera morbus. The cars left at«half-past ten Monday morning, and I summoned courage to proceed on the journey. I was almost helpless through the day, reclining on father's shoulder a good part of the time. At Detroit that night, I got a good rest, and was much better in the morning. Tuesday evening father and I separated at Calumet, lU. He took the train bound direct for St. Louis, and I went to Chicago and spent the night. Wednesday I had a delightful ride down over the prairies of lUinois, arriving here in the evening at eight o'clock. Found Uncle Edgell and father at the boat landing awaiting me, and the rest at home all glad to see me. The great State Fair has occupied the time and attention of all of us since our arrival. There has been a tremen dous crowd in attendance all the week. Thursday, the day the Prince of Wales visited the grounds, there could not have been less than seventy-five thousand present, and some of the papers say as high as one hundred thousand. I have seen the young Prince to my satis faction, and like him exceedingly. He looks good. He is smaU in stature, not handsome in face, dressing like other people, modest even to blushing when the awaiting thousands greeted him with their cheers. His dress was a dark, loose coat, light pants and vest, and black sUk hat. He carried a light cane, which served him as a sort of toy. His suite of English noblemen were con tinually with him. Friday I did not go to the grounds. il^ S-rUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. but have been to-day with Emma, A premium of fifteen hundred dollars was awarded this afternoon to the fastest trotting horse. It was an exiting race. Emma has improved very sensibly since she left Vermont. She is in the high school in the city, and has to work pretty hard. Sunday P. M. We have had a rainy, dull day. I have been to church and heard Dr. Post. The church is a magnificient build ing. This afternoon I went with Uncle Edgell to attend his Sabbath school — one near here, in a school house over which he is superintendent. I have made no arrangement as to a law office yet, — indeed, I have'nt been in the city much. The Fair has engrossed all my attention thus far. Presume I shall get a place to study this week. I feel as though I should have a good home during the year, as good as I could ask. We are in the city, but out of the crowded portions of it. Uncle Cooper's 'family and grandma wiU be here this week. The Cooper's make a very short visit, I believe. I hope I shall see Hattie and her mother when they go to Kansas. I am sorry it wasn't convenient for me to wait and go with them. Eemember me to Mina and Mary. Tell Mina that I have a few things to say to her, but have not the time to write them now. I want to receive frequent letters from you henceforth. Do not neglect me. Direct in care of S, M, Edgell, Esq, Good-bye, Your affectionate brother, St, Louis, Mo., October 7, 1860, Dear Mother : If I had thought you were suffering at all for want of letters, I should have written long ago ; but father has been sending them so often, that mine could have been STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 113 nothing but a repitition. I got my paper, pen and ink ready once or twice last week, but on finding he had a letter all ready to send, laid them aside. He may send one to-morrow, but that shall not stand in my way this time. Your letter reached me on Thursday last, and never was one more welcome. It was a good letter, and I hope to get a great many like it during the next year. Little items which you deem of poor consequence at home, possess oftentimes great interest to me so far away. You can never lack material for writing me. Tell me anything and everything. I will endeavor that my pen shall do as much or more work for you than yours does for me ; whether it be done as well, I have many and serious misgivings. You had a word from me at Niagara and Chicago. In an hour after I had folded the letter at Niagara, I was prostrated with a severe attack of cholera morbus. We thought it would not be worth while to open the letter just folded, as the news of my illness might cause you unnecessary anxiety. I was sick all night, and father nor I got much of any sleep. In the morning a physician was caUed to advise whether it would be safe to go on that day. He said I probably could endure the ride, but it would be safer and better to wait. But, although I was weak and sick, I determined to get aboard the cars, know ing I could stop if it was too hard for me. Father gave me his shoulder for a pUlow, and I made out to ride to Detroit, although it was the hardest day's work I have done for a good while. There I had a good night's rest, and endured the ride to Chicago very weU. I went there alone, as you know. The ride the next day (Wednesday) down over the prairies of Illinois, was very pleasant. There seems to be no end to the resources of —8 114 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. that State. I arrived in St. Louis at about half-past eight o'clock, and found father and Uncle EdgeU waiting at the ferry landing. I was soon set down at uncle's door, and warmly wel comed by Aunt Louise, Emma, George and Stephen. The rest of the week was occupied in attending the Fair, of which I presume father has given you sufficient account. I got a good view of the Prince of Wales, and looked at him to my satisfaction. He was plainly attired in blue coat, light pants and vest, and a black silk hat. He carried a little walking stick, which he used very much as other people do. There was a tremendous crowd present, probably seventy-five thousand, and the exhibi tion was grand. Last week I spent in running about the city, looking for a law office and visiting. I was intro duced to Hon. Edward Bates the other day, whose name was prominent as a candidate for the Presidency pre vious to and at the Chicago convention. He is an amia ble, pleasant man, and politely asked me to call on him. Have seen Professor Sanborn. He is very much at home in the city, and it really looks like old times to see him walking independently through the streets, just as he used to in Hanover. He is building a very fine house not far from us. There has been a good deal of warm weather since our arrival. It seems as warm to-day as any day we had at home during the summer. Thermometer stands between eighty and ninety degrees. My windows are aU open, and I am sitting without coat or vest. Monday morning. There has been a great change in weather since last night. When I retired, bed clothes were insupportable, but this morning there is a cold northwest wind blowing. Windows are closed, and I am sitting in thick coat and STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 115 vest. The leaves here are yet green, [and a few grapes remain, in the garden. Grapes are very abundant in market, and quite cheap, — only twenty cents per pound at retaU. Cannot say yet how I am going to like St. Louis. It will take some time to determine. It bears evident marks of being a new city. It is growing at present very rapidly. My home for the year will be a very pleasant one. Give a great deal of love to aU the famUy, and accept much from your absent but Most affectionate son. St. Louis, Mo., October 12, 1860. My Dear Brother : I want to correspond with you, and am not particular which of us writes first ; but as I have a little leisure this afternoon, I think it not worth while to wait longer for a letter from you. It is Friday afternoon. I am in Aunt Louise's siting- room ; Uncle Cooper lies on the sofa, asleep ; grandma sits near, knitting ; Aunt Cooper sewing ; Sarah at the same table with me, sewing; Mary sits in her little chair, holding her kitty; Aunt Louise has gone into the parlor to take a nap. Father and Uncle Edgell went off day before yesterday about a hundred miles into Illinois, on a hunting excursion. We expect them back to-night. A little cold weather is upon us just now so that a fire is comfortable. I've been devoting this week mostly to visiting, and have been having very pleasant times. The family have had a good many caUers, and of ourselves we make a pretty large company. Yesterday we visited the Blind Asy lum, and to-day we have been at the MercantUe Library, and several other places of interest. I have 116 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. engaged a place to study, but preferred not to commence whUe Uncle Cooper's famUy were here, as I want the time to visit. They will go the first of next week, when I shall immediately go to work. Am to study in the office of Knox, Smith & Sedgwick, 38 North Main street. I can't tell you yet how I am going to like the city. It is altogether a new place and not at all like Vermont. Climate and habits are very different. Sudden and great changes in weather are frequent. The city looks far different from Boston — worse to an Eastern man, but the Westerners are just as weU satisfied with it. In wet weather the streets are awful muddy, and in dry, awful dusty. There are many fine buUdings, but they are not so uniformly good as in Boston, as this is a newer city. There is a great deal of building here, and St. Louis seems to be advancing in every respect. There is a hotel nearly completed on Washington Avenue which will be equal to anything of the kind in the country. I anticipate a good deal of pleasure in hearing Douglas, who is to speak here next week. I am no politician, but always like to see distinguished men. To-morrow I presume we shaU dine on quaU, as that is what they are hunting. Aunt Louise says, tell your mother that I very often wish her here, and that I'm looking forward certainly to a visit next fall. How are you liking your school ? Don't think of quit ting study before you are twenty-one. The time till then is worth more for that than anything else. You can well afford to study till that time. I used to long to get into business, and I believe most boys of spirit do, in earlier years ; but parents know best in such cases, and are wise in keeping their chUdren in school. In after years such chUdren always are thankful that they were kept to their books. Father and mother are both very anxious you STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 117 should study a good deal yet. You want education enough so that you will not feel embarrassed in any posi tion to which you may attain. I want to hear from you soon. Tell me all the news. Of course you may give a great deal of love from me to all the family. I never thought more of you aU. Good-bye. Your affectionate brother. Saturday Morning. Father did not come last night ; will be here to-day- Mother's good long letter received. I took the liberty to open it, as I was anxious to hear from home. Was glad she sent Mary's, Eemember me to inquiring friends. George. St. Louis, Mo,, October 21, 1860, My Dear Sister Carrie : I didn't get ready for church this morning quite in season, so they all went off and left me. I concluded not to foUow after them (as they no doubt expected I would), but to sit down and write you a few lines. I find myself quite contented and satisfied with the arrangement. I can't seem to realize that it is almost November. The trees have just begun to tint and are about as much colored as Vermont trees were when I left. It is com fortable sitting without a fire. I suppose at home you are about settled down for winter. Well, I often yearn for your clear, pure atmosphere. It takes an Eastern man a good while to get used to things "out west." At one moment, when he recaUs the beauty of New England scenery, the freshness of her climate, the neatness of her towns, the superiority of her inhabitants, he turns his 118 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS . longing eyes homeward, and is only restrained from bend ing his footsteps thither by wild dreams of future wealth, popularity and power. I believe a person comfortably settled in a large New England village or small city, is more pleasantly located than he could be in any other portion of the country. But my ideas of the West are necessarily limited, having been here only a short time, and I presume my judgments are a little warped by a strong love of home. When I wrote last, I think I had not commenced studs^ing. Last Monday morning I took a seat in the office of Knox, Smith & Sedgwick, and have since been slowly reading Blackstone. It is quite difficult to fix my attention on a book after so long and pleasant a vacation. But it comes easier each day, and soon I shall be able to give my whole mind to my book. Am well pleased with the lawyers of the office. There are two students besides myself. One of them is Slade, a graduate of Brown Uni versity, and whose photograph I am quite sure is among those samples which are in the parlor at home. His face looked very familiar when I first saw him. Last Friday night Stephen A. Douglas was here. They gave him a most magnificent reception. The city was alive with excitement. I was fortunate enough to secure a position where I could see and hear him perfectly well, but I am free to confess I was never so awfully squeezed before, and hope never to be again. Uncle Cooper and family left for Wyandotte last Tues day afternoon. They went to Hannibal by boat, and thence by cars to St. Joseph. I was sorry to have them go, as I was having a very pleasant visit with them. I suppose father will be going before long, and I shall be left all alone. And yet I am not alone by any means, but rather in the midst of friends. I ought not to be STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 119 lonely, even after he is away. Emma is a good deal of company for me, and I think very highly of her. She is at school five days in the week, between the hours of eight and three. She is a faithful student, and a good gill about home, always pleasant and obliging, and is quite a miser with her time, uneasy if a moment is lost. How desirable is a well-balanced character. Talent may command respect, but not love. Where head and heart are properly united, there is the perfect man. The social qualities — the heart — may be cultivated, trained. How much we may add to our ovm and others' happiness by such cultivation. Stephen E. is boarding at Mr. Bonner's. He is a very pleasant young man. Grandma is very well and appears to be enjoying herself. Father and Uncle EdgeU were out in the country, west, three days last week, and are going over into Elinois this week, I believe. There is one of Cooper's novels about the house— "The Water- Witch" — which I wish you would accept from me, and appro priate as your own. I haven't heard a word from Hattie since I left, ^but George wrote that they were to start about October 18th. Emma sends a great deal of love, and thinks it about time for you to answer her last letter. How are you get ting on in your studies ? Write me all about yourself, and everybody else in whom I take an interest. Give much love to mother, Ed., LUy and Cousin Emily. Also remember me to the Lyndon friends, when you see them. Don't make me wait long for a letter. Your affectionate brother. 120 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. St. Louis, Mo., November 2, 1860. Dear Mother : It is half-past eight, evening. Aunt Louise, Emma and I are in the sitting-room before a cheerful coal fire. I am a little tired and sleepy, and do not expect to write much to-night, but thought I would commence so I might be sure of getting off a letter to-morrow. For two days past we have been having a cold rain, so that a fire in, and overcoats out of, doors, are comfortable. I suppose you wUl learn before this reaches you, of father's depart ure. He left with Uncle Edgell on Wednesday, &nd thought he would reach home the last of next week. How glad you will be to see him after an absence of seven weeks. Mr. Fletcher's letter came yesterday, and I have remailed it to Chicago. Uncle EdgeU is to be away a week or more. He will be with father a part of the time. It seems quite lonely here now that both of them are gone. I almost envy father the pleasure of stepping once more into our dear home. But after all, I am well contented here, and feel as though the year would be spent pleasantly as well as profitably. My health is first-rate, and I think I am gaining a little in flesh. I go into town at about nine in the morning, gen erally taking a lunch. Am in the office tiU about four p. M. It is two miles and a trifle over from Uncle's to the office, and in decent weather I walk in and out. If I come home to dinner, as I do now and then, I ride out and back, as walking in in the morning, and out at night, is enough for me in one day. I like the men with whom I am studying, and am as well pleased as I expected, with "the law." I cannot deny but that the stage of legal study in which I am now engaged, is a little tedious. It will be more interesting by and by. Charley Hallett, then, is gone. St. Johnsbury has lost one of her best STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 121 young men, his parents, the pride of their hearts and joy of their house— and Jennie's loss— she alone can realize it, and in solitude she must suffer. I wish I could take a part of her grief. How does she bear it ? You must assure her of my highest regards and deepest sym pathy. Satwrday Morning. Have just come to the office and will finish this letter so that it will be off next mail. I did the marketing this ¦ morning on my way in, and sent the articles back by George. It is cloudy and cold as yesterday, l?ut looks as though it might clear off during the day. I do not have much office work to do, therefore have most of the time for study, I received Edward's letter in due time, and was very glad to get it. Tell him I received the letter from George Chase, which he forwarded, soon after we left. Grandma seemed to be very well and very happy. She wants to hear everjrthing that is said, and enjoys fun as well as does a girl of eighteen. Before this reaches you the election wUl be over. Do you expect to hear the clash of arms from the distant South ? They certainly threaten as though they were in earnest. We hear a great deal more of it here in a slave State, than you do. I do not take any active part in politics, but in the event of a legal election I shall not certainly side with any party whose purpose is the asassin- ation of the President, or the dissolution of our Union. I wish that Bell and Everett might be elected, for the reason that all parties would be tolerably well satisfied, and we could have four years of quiet, in which the present national excitement might be allayed. I meet a good many New England people hei-e. AU the members of the firm with whom I am studying are 122 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. from Massachusetts. I want you to writQ me soon, and give me aU the news, both from St. Johnsbury and Lyndon. Has Emily gone south? Did LUly get the little book I sent her? I am thinking you wiU be very glad to see father when he gets home. Give much love to Edward, Carrie, LUly and EmUy, and accept much for yourself from Your affectionate son. St. Louis, Mo., November 9, 1860. My Dear Brother: Yours of October 21st was received, and gratified me exceedingly. When you spoke of the interest with which you regarded your school, I could but think of the Sab bath evening before I left home, and your unwiUingness to commence study again. I remember the hard struggle in your mind between your own desires and the counsels of friends. I saw the right prevail — noticed in the few days after your growing interest in study, and felt, when I left you, that all would be well, — I have no fears now. You are eighteen years old, and blessed with good sense and judgment, which, I am confident, will lead you ever in the paths of virtue, knowledge and happiness. I feel satisfied that your studies will not be given up untU it is best, on the whole, they should be, and when that time comes, that you will select your employment for life with great prudence, and once selected, that you will do honor to it as long as you live. I wish you, from the depths of a sincere heart, unqualified success and happiness. Let your mark be high. Although you cannot attain to per fection, yet if you make that your aim, you wiU get nearer to it, than if your aim be lower. Eeverses and sorrow must come sometime, but I trust not during your student life. Attend well to the discipline and cultivation of your STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 123 mind, that you may bear with more equanimity life's varied trials, when they do come ; and also, that you may realize a higher enjoyment from the many pleasures and happy experiences that await you. The history you are studying will be of great value to you. The object of a study of history is not merely to learn what has trans pired, but also to watch the action of the ages, and care fully to examine and study their motives, thus enabling a man of present time to avoid their errors and adopt their virtues. Satwrday Morning. Emma came down last evening and said I must go to Mr. Bonner's with her, which, rather against my wish, I did. To-night, I presume, you will see father, and you will all rejoice in his arrival after so long an absence. For his benefit I will write the result of Mr. Bonner's hunting trip. He reached home last evening after a three days' absence in St. Charles County, Illinois. For his share he brought home five wild geese and one monstrous turkey, which, after the entraUs were out, weighed from twenty to thirty pounds. Besides these, he got three chickens, one partridge, and one rabbit. He was highly elate with his success. Was glad to hear by Uncle Edgell that father shot four ducks before he left, but sorry he did not get them. We have had several days of rainy, ugly weather, but this morning the sun is shining bright and clear, and it wUl probably be quite warm by midday. Mr. Edgell went off hunting at about halt-past five this morning, with a Doctor Case. Will be back to-night. Uncle Edgell has bought me a pair of hunting boots, with legs nearly as long as mine. They are for wading about in the marshes hunting ducks, I heard the Hon, F, P, Blair speak Mon- 124 STUDYING LAW IN ST, LOUIS, day evening last. The election l)leases almost everybody in Vermont, of course. AU are very well here. I never saw grandma so lively and happy. George and Mary are out at play in the clear air. The schools do not hold ses sions on Saturday. Emma is at work in Aunt Louise's room close by, and sends you much love. Have not heard from home for some days. Are you all weU ? Give a great deal of love to all, and write me soon. Good bye, I enclose a letter for mother from Aunt Louise. Your affectionate brother. TO MOSES chase, ESQ. St. Louis, November 19, 1860. My Dear Grandfather : Thinking perhaps it may add a drop to your cup of pleasure to get a bit of news from this far country, and to learn of the welfare of one who is very grateful for the interest you have always appeared to take in him, I have determined to devote a little while this morning to filling out this sheet, as best I may. You may wonder that I sit down in the morning, and especially Monday morn ing, to write. It is not my usual custom, but having been unwell for two or three days, and not feeling quite able to go into town, I do not think I can occupy the morning better, than in what I have commenced. I have now been here about two months, and am beginning to be consider ably acquainted. Our journey out was very pleasant. We left St. Johnsbury, Friday morning, September 1st, and coming via Springfield, Albany, Niagara Falls, Detroit and Chicago, arrived here Wednesday, 26th. The first thing to engage attention was the great State STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 125 Fair, which occupied the rest of the week, and was a splendid success. You would form a new idea of the resources of the West by attending one of these fairs. In the middle of their spacious grounds, they have a beauti ful amphitheatre, capable of seating twenty-five thousand people. Within this the animals are drawn up for exhi bition, and here also is the place for trotting. In the centre of the enclosed space is a handsome stand for the judges. There were cattle brought in there, the backs of which presented an area which seemed to me commo dious enough for a small family to sit down to dinner upon. I witnessed the race in which "Ethen Allen" took a prize of fifteen hundred dollars. On Thursday, the 27th, the great day, there must have been at least seven ty-five thousand people on the grounds. The Prince of Wales favored the people with his presence for a few hours that day. I got a good view of the young man, and looked at him to my satisfaction. After the Fair I spent two weeks in looking about, and then commenced reading Blackstone in the office of Knox, Smith & Sedg wick, No. 38 north Main street, where I am now spend ing the greater part of my time. The firm I am with do a business of fifteen or twenty thousand dollars annually. The three are Massachusetts men, and as you might expect, hot republicans. The election passed off very quietly here, one great rea son for which was that the grog dealers consented to close their shops for the day. Missouri will probably cast her vote for Douglas, though Bell gives him a very close run. There are a few counties yet to hear from. Though the people here regret Lincoln's election, yet they are very patriotic, and strong against disunion. A great deal is said about the nullification of the Fugitiue Slave Law in Massachusetts and Vermont. Everybody says that under 126 STUDYING LAW IN ST.- LOUIS. the present agitated state of affairs, those States cannot. fail to perceive their wrong, and ought not to refuse for another day to repeal all such odious legislation. South Carolina money is not current in this city, and busi ness of all kinds is suffering. Uncle Edgell, who hap pened to be in Springfield the other day, paid Mr. Lin coln a visit, and was received in a very friendly manner. Uncle voted for Bell. Since I came, I have heard Doug las, Hon. J. J. Crittenden and F. P. Blair make political speeches. Have had the honor of an introduction to Edward Bates, who is highly esteemed here by all par ties. I suppose you have seen father before this, and that he has told you all which I have, and much more. He made a long visit here, and appeared to enjoy it. I certainly enjoyed his being here. Everything about this country is so different from New England, that I have not quite got to like it yet. St. Louis is a very dirty city. The stone with which the streets are paved is a soft limestone, which wears away very fast, and makes a fine, offensive powder, which ren ders the streets tremendous dusty in dry weather, and very muddy in wet. The coal is of such a nature that a dense, black smoke, of offensive odor, results from its burning, and overhangs the city almost continually. Iron pavements are now superseding the stone in some of the principal streets, and are liked so well, that in time I think they will be the only ones used. I do not know whether you wUl be able to answer this poor letter. Although I shaU not press you for a reply, if the writing would be too great a tax on your patience or your physical powers, yet you know I shall feel espe ciaUy favored to get a letter from you. Aunt Louise wishes to be remembered to you with much respect and STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 127 and affection. Grandma also sends her respects, and wishes to be remembered with much love to the whole family. Wishing you good health, and a comfortable happy winter, I am Your affectionate grandson. TO CARRIE. St. Louis, Mo., December 9, 1860. My Dear Sister : Yours of November 11th was received at a time when a much poorer letter would have received a hearty welcome. I was on the bed, sick, and when Emma brought it to me, it seemed a better tonic than the best physician could have administered, and a more effectual balm than the waters of the fabled spring, a draught from which bestowed perpetual peace. Thus a friend's letter gener ally affects me when I happen to be on the sick bed. It is then I long for silent communion with those I love. Your letter's brevity was all its fault, and yet I do not know but it was as long as I generally write you. But I am not satisfied, you see, to get as much as I give. I want a profit out of my correspondence. So you must take notice and see that your pen wearies not so soon. Edward's short but very acceptable letter has been received, also father's and mother's. The letter sent from home last Tuesday morning reached here Thursday morning — a quick passage. It is Sunday, p. m., and I am in Emma's room. She has just gone to Sabbath school. Went to church this A. M., and heard Dr. Post preach. The day is mUd. This morning we had a little rain. We have no traces of snow. The last three days of last week were beautiful — like September d3,ys. One hardly needed overcoat or 128 " studying law in st. louIS. gloves. Have I told you that my classmate, G. H. Tucker, has been out here ? He came on Monday, and left Thursday morning, following. He knew nothing of my being here untU Wednesday, when he found it out by accident, and sent for me. You may be sure the few hours I spent with him were enjoyed. Thomas Slade, whose photograph you found, is studying in the same office with me. If Charles Little comes to St. Johnsbury, I hope he wiU become acquainted in our family. Has Arthur left Lyndon, and if so, do you know where he is ? He owes me a letter. I suppose Ed. Eeddington is at home. Please remember me to him, as also to H. C. N,, Ed. Frost, and my other friends whom you may chance to meet. Mother writes a very flattering account of your examination, which, of course, I was very glad to hear. Do you go to school this winter ? It was too bad your Thanksgiving was so broken up. Write about th'at party you had in the evening. I have had letters lately from Uncle and Sarah Cooper, and Hattie Chase. They were all well and happy, and wished to be remembered to Vermont friends'. They spoke of WUliam Chamberlin as one of their circle, I suppose you will have as much skating as you wish this winter. It is grand sport, and the best of exercise. You need to exercise reason in it, however, as well as in everything else you engage in. In that, as in everything else, I expect you will exercise that ladylike modesty and unassuming deportment, which are absolutely essential to female lovliness. You are enjoy ing peculiar advantages. You do not know how soon you may be caUed upon to make a change of scene, and to mingle with the strange world. Then, and not tUl then, you will begin to appreciate the advantages of your early home, and to love more than ever those near friends whose reproofs have sometimes, I presume, appeared to STUDYING LikW IN ST. LOUIS. 129 you unreasonable. Then wUl their whole system of training, as you look back upon it, appear connected and adapted to its end. Then the gratitude of your whole heart will flow forth towards those who have devoted their lives to the advancement of their children's true interests. All are very well here ; Grandma, as smart as ever. She has nearly finished for me a pair of drab woolen mittens. They are for out-door work — driving in the rain, etc. Tell father all the banks have suspended except the Exchange, and that the latter is redeem ing no more circulation from week to week, than usual. Business is nearly dead. Men are afraid to trust each other. My studies progress moderately. Am reading, at present, Hitchcock's Eeligion of Geology. We have company almost every evening, which breaks up my reading seriously. Then Helen Kittredge is at home. Please remember me to her. Emma sends much love, and says you must write. Give my love to all the dear ones at home, and write me ere long. Your affectionate brother. St. Louis, December 16, 1860. My Dear Mother : * * » rpjjjg -g ^ beautiful Sunday. The sun is shin ing bright and warm through a clear atmosphere, and dispelling every thought of winter, the cold snows and damp, cutting winds, incidents of ,the climate during these months. While you are probably enjoying fine sleighing, and suffering some of the discomforts of a northern climate, we are having dry, dusty roads, and sitting under a sun whose beams are to-day almost suffi cient for our comfort without artificial aid. But we have days now and then which I am glad it has never been —9 130 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. your lot to experience — when the cold rain and snow drive in upon you, and the moist, piercing wind seems to concentrate its whole force upon your little body ; when men are cold and cannot get warm ; when no fire that burns seems to dispel the chills of the blast. Two or three such days have we had, and I hope they wUl be few in future. * * * Yesterday Mr. F. H. had the kind ness to present me with a couple of tickets for Emma and myself, to a concert given by Mrs. C. Varian James, at Mercantile Library Hall. Aunt Louise concluded to go, and invited a Miss T., who took tea here, to accom pany us, so all four of us went down in the carriage and enjoyed the greatest musical treat, by far, that I ever attended. The lady was beautiful, perfectly graceful, apparently possessed of a strong, positive character, and a sweet and most charming singer. In costume she sang "The Star Spangled Banner" as the closing piece, and as she added force to the patriotic lines of the final stanza, by swinging her starry cap high above her head, my sympathies were too strongly roused to repress my enthusiasm, and the only one in the house, I raised my hat as far as I could reach, and whirled it above my head with as much vigor as I could command, and only found it difficult to confine my enthusiasm within so narrow bounds.* Her sweet and powerful notes went clear to my center, and for once I confess myself con quered by the power of music — conquered, too, after I had already surrendered to her beauty. * * * * Patriotic expression of sentiments finds a ready echo in the breasts of St. Louis citizens, though there are some who have donned the blue cockade, and appear with it in our streets. What are we coming to? Must Aunt Louise relates that the lady bowed a most gracious acknowl edgement, STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 131 the blood of our citizens again flow? Must father be arrayed against son, brother against brother ? This is more probable than I wish it was. I believe secession is revolution, and I hope revolution for so shght a cause as the present, will be put down even at the expense of blood. I hope the North wUl step forward and honorably undo what they have done amiss, and wUlingly accede to terms honorable to the whole country. This precious legacy of our Father's would be too great a sacrifice to the Demon Strife. 0 ! that it may be prevented. But the clouds are dark, the blasts are fierce, and the storm is growing more terrible every day. Can the bark survive the war ing elements ? Pier sails are already torn, her masts are broken, and some of her planks are dropping off. This figure immediately suggested itself to me, as I read yes terday of the resignation of Gen. Cass. But stiU I dared to hope that the Ship of State would find an anchoring from whence, after a refitting, she might proudly set sail again, and become once more the pride and glory of the western continent, and the world. I still dare to hope. * * * Your very affectionate son. St. Louis, December 25,, 1860. Dear Father : I want a Christmas gift from you this year, — not only want but claim it, and my claim is just. I desire you to go into Gage's and let him take your ambrotype in his very best style, and put it into a good case. Then he will give you a square pasteboard box, just right to contain it, which I wish you to seal up and forward to me by mail. In this box the picture will come safe, and the postage 132 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. wUl not be any kiUing affair. This is aU I ask. I have asked it several times before. This time you ought not to refuse me, — ^you will not. Your several letters of late have come duly to hand, and I was very much obliged for them. Grandma/ was especially pleased when your last letter was read, * » * Christmas day is almost gone. It is eight o'clock eve ning, I am sitting in the parlor at a small table in the middle of the room. Aunt Louise is reading on the sofa. The day has passed very pleasantly. Presents were distri buted early this morning. Uncle E. received a handsome mounted, moveable mirror from his wife ; Aunt Louise a pair of toUet mats from Emma, and Holmes' poems from G. E. C. ; grandma had a pocket diary from G. E. C. ; Emma a set of sable fur (victorine and cuffs) from S. M. E., pair, of five dollar skates from S. M. E., collar from George Edgell, gold pen from G. E. C; George's and Mary's articles are too numerous to mention. I got a beautiful fruit knife from S. M. E., "Hitchcock's Eeligion of Geology" from Aunt Louise, "Tri-colored Sketches in Paris" from George, and a pair of handsome and com fortable wristlets from Emma. At one to-day we had a dinner of venison ; social time in the afternoon ; tea at five. After a frolic, Emma, Stephen, George and I went out skating, spent a pleasant hour, and now I close Christ mas by writing you a few hasty lines. How short the time since last Christmas. I weU remember all our presents, the box we fixed off for Mary, etc., etc. It was a happy day, and doubtless to-day has been pleasant at home. I take this opportunity to \^ish you all a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. The holidays are much more considered here than in Vermont. The schools have all suspended until January 2, 1861. Since I last wrote, we have had a snow storm. Three or four STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 133 inches of snow lie on the ground to-day, though the weather is moderate. Our coldest has been five degrees above zero. I hope Mr. Butler's skating park will be pat ronized. It must be a fine place, and besides,' Mr. B. is avery worthy man. Game of all kinds has been very abundant since you left. The market has been full. Mr. EdgeU has not had time to go out once, and consequently I have not yet had an opportunity to try my hunting boots. Think I wrote in my last of Elam Newell's having been here. Was a little surprised to hear you had changed horses. Wish you would get a horse like the one I bought for Professor Patterson. I don't like the color of your new one, — one reason is, it is so hard to keep clean. Do you get the high rate of exchange that is being paid here, for what drafts you send on ? Exchange on New York has been quick at ten per cent. Money h9,s been a trifle easier, however, for two or three days. You say you don't know what to tell those who ask you what I think of St, Louis, I don't like to express any very decided opinion now, but I imagine my opinion at present corresponds very nearly to yours. With a view solely to finding the comforts and pleasures of living, I should hardly select St, Louis for a home. As a business point, I believe it wUl be unexceUed after rents and real estate fall to their reasonable value. By letter from George Chase the other night, they were all well and happy. George, his mother and Hattie would probably leave for the East about AprU 1st. Shall want to get a f uU account of your Christmas and New Years from some of you. Carrie should write me soon, I wrote mother last week. She has undoubtedly received it before now. ShaU write Edward in a week or two. I suppose LUly got some beatiful Christmas pres ents. Give her a kiss from her absent brother. How is 134 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS, Mr. Fletcher and family ? Please remember me to them. How is grandpa ? What think you of politics ? Times look very dark. I am strong for compromise and union. The family are all well and send much love. Give love to mother, Edward, Carrie and Lilly, and remember me to inquiring friends. Please write me soon and do not forget the first part of my letter. Little items of news concerning any of my acquaintances wUl be interesting. Are Edward and Carrie in school again? Another happy new year. Good bye. Your affectionate son. St. Louis, Mo., January 2, 1861. My Dear Father : Your check on Bank Commerce, Boston, for |300, was received yesterday noon. I am very grateful for the confidence you repose in me by entrusting to me such amount, and for your kindness in giving me the profits I can make it yield between now and my return next sum mer. Yesterday no business was done, but this morning I sold the draft for five per cent, premium, after conside rable running about. Ten days ago it would have sold quicker at ten per cent, than it did to-day at five. Exchange has been going down, for a week past, on the jump. Mr. Edgell thought I did the best I could have done with it. I rather think banks wUl buy to-morrow at three and four per cent. I shall not give the money to Uncle E. to invest, but shall use it myself, with his advice. I want to try my hand. WiU try and come out whole. We have received cheering news from Washington to-day. The dispatches caused a considerable loosening in the money market this afternoon. STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 135 Yesterday was a hard day for Aunt Louise and Emma. They entertained about 75 gentlemen callers. Aunt Louise has been on her bed nearly all day. She is better and up this evening. Uncle E. and Emma have gone to prayer-meeting. We are having delightful weather— like May in Ver mont. All of us are first-rate except Aunt Louise. Wrote a long letter to Mary yesterday. Give much love to mother, Edward, Carrie and LUly, and believe me Your very affectionate son. St. Louis, Mo., January 11, 1861. Dear Father : Yours and mother's of the 2d January, were very gratefully received. I was much interested in your politi cal remarks, and am anxious, in reply, to give you my reasons for differing with you in some points. By discussion we can understand each other, at least. I think I stand now where I always hope to — on the side of the Right and the Truth. My platform is: "The Union, the Constitution, and the enforcement of the Laws." I see with sorrow the persistency with which the so-caUed Eepublicans of the North cUng to their dogmas — with surprise and wonder, the messages of the Governors of Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Michigan, etc., and the intro duction into the Senate of such memorials as Mr. Sumner presented there yesterday, during the present excited and dangerous state of public feeling. I think, with you, that the Eepublican party has the power of saving the Union, and that, too, without sacrificing their honor as a party, . A repeal of the odious Personal Liberty BUls, and a fair compromise of the territorial question, is all that is requisite. The former they probably would be wUling to 136 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. grant. As to a compromise, — good men are, and always will be, liable to difference of opinion. I doubt not that some, of those men who regard it as inconsistent with the Constitution to protect slaves in the territories, as mere private property, are just as sincere and good men as any of the best of the southern protectionists. Common char ity requires this admission. You and I know men in the North — strong Eepublicans — whose motives we dare not impugn. History tells us that these differences of opinion have always existed among men. And how have they been reconcUed? How have societies and governments been constituted out of such conflicting elements ? By com promise. Extreme opinions have not been accustomed to prevaU. The North and South now stand arrayed against each other, and threaten a disruption of this government. Hostile sentiments prevail in each section against the other. Each is well aware that if peace can be continued and differences reconciled, the country wiU be far better off entire than disjointed. God seems to have calculated the ground on which is built the governmental edifice of the United States of America as the field for one great and powerful nation. Under existing circumstances, then, what does it behoove the North to do? In the first place, to repeal, unconditionally, those Personal Liberty Bills. This, northern men will not, in my opinion, be so reckless as to refuse. Secondly, the North should agree to a line of division through the Territories, on the north side of which their opinions might be carried into effect, and, on the south side, permit southern ideas to prevail. What, now, ought the South to do ? for we cannot expect all the concession from one side. Evidently to stop her revolutionary movements, consent to a modification of the Fugitive Slave Law, interdict forever the African STUDYING LAW IN ST, LOtJlS, 137 slave trade, and adopt the line of division through the Territories. Here would be an amicable and an honorable adjustment. Now, vrith regard to secession, I deny the abstract right of secession, because were it admitted, our govern ment must be a shabby affair, indeed. Suppose we pur chase Cuba for $100,000,000, and she takes a notion to secede and go back to Spain in three weeks after ? Think you then there would be many to cry up the absolute right of secession ? Our government is stronger than all that. Shame on its founders, if it is not. Does the wrong-doing of one State convey any moral right to another to violate the Constitution? General Pierce (or Mr. Filmore) faithfully executed the Fugitive Slave Law in Massachusetts when that State undertook to resist. So ought every President to do in every such case. So, in case of South Carolina, it is the evident duty of the President to execute the Federal laws. Let any southern State demand, if she will, the execution of the laws in any other section of the country, but let her not . presume to nulUfy our Constitution, and make war on that power to which she is subordinate. As to coercing South Carolina in the present instance, this I think should only be tried as a last resort. But if she takes possession of government property, defies govern ment officers, fires upon government ships, what shall the Executive do ? WUl his oath of office permit him to be inactive ? I think not. After having tried every means of conciliation, it is his duty to say, "thus far shalt thou go and no further. " This Jackson said in 1832, and he has always been honored for it. The election of Lincoln is no cause for immediate secession. He was constitution ally elected, and it is not probable he can aggress upon the South during his term of office, as the opposition are 188 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. ahead now in Congress and the Supreme Court, and I have no doubt but that the Eepublican party reached the acme of its power on the fifth of last November, and is now on the decline, I believe, if the Crittenden resolu tions could be submitted to the people to-day, they would be adopted as the basis of compromise. It is these damn able politicians on both sides, who are brewing all this trouble. How strange and sad that men can become so debased as to be wiUing to sacrifice this glorious Eepub- lic to their own uncontrollable ambition. Does such corruption seem possible ? I sometimes think we deserve war, to punish the people for electing such men. But as a general thing they are not to blame. They are too con fident, and wily men deceive, and it does seem hard that innocent blood must be shed for the hellish designs of political tricksters. Will not men come to reason ? I hope the question will go back to the fountain-head of our political power, — ^the people. What a tremendous shout in favor of Union would rise from the honest- hearted masses in every State, county and town, from the Atlantic to the Pacific. How they would cling to the pillars of that government under whose benignant sup port they have lived in so much prosperity, happiness and security. And what a terrible calamity a dissolu- lution is going to be to our common people. The horrors of a long and bloody war will be enhanced to them by want of employment, destitution, and every kind of suffering. And it will not be confined to any one section. New Eng land perhaps thinks she will escape all the consequences of her folly. But she will receive her share of the uni versal calamity. In case of dissolution between the North and South, not much time wiU elapse before a union of the States, on either side of the Mississippi, wiU be consummated. STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 139 This great river will not run through two countries long. The interests of the whole line of States are too deeply concerned to admit of a separation, and I believe, if no where else in America, yet along the line of the Father of Waters there is destined to be a united North and South. Will New England then supply such new confederacy with manufactures? Let her not deceive herself with such an illusive hope. The tremendous and unequaled water-power of the northern Mississippi will not remain long unimproved, and the facilities of piore southern points on the river for manufacture by steam, will be rapidly improved, and ultimately this valley wUl supply the whole South and the whole great West with their manufactures, if New England be once separated from the confederacy. Then the South must suffer. Gaining no sympathy from foreign countries, and cut off from the boundless resources of such States as Pennsylvania and New York, and from the grain-growing States of the Northwest, and also from the strong moral influence which is always the concomitant of a northern climate, what can the southern States hope to do ? The misfortunes of disunion thicken around me with their gloomy shadows as I proceed, and there appears no bound to their pernicious consequences. It seems to me the North, the South, the East and the West will be involved in a common ruin. The extent of that ruin no one can foretell. The passage of Scripture, "What God hath joined together let no man put asunder," applies well to the union of these States, Withdraw, then, everyone, his sacreligious hand, who with foul intent hath laid hold of that delicate, magic cord* which for eighty-four years has bound the hearts of the greatest nation, the freest people, that has yet trod the earth. Where are the Fathers? Where are Washington, 140 STUDYING LAW W ST, LOUfS, Jefferson, Madison, Jay, Hamilton, Webster and Clay ? Are our legislators resolved to trample their memories and their glorious precepts in the dust ? WUl they refuse to take counsel of these eminent minds that have been the idols of our people ? WUl they forget their terrible depictions of the horrors of disunion ? WUl they forget their magnanimous compromises, which gave their chil dren the present mighty fabric of power ? But where can be the end of reasons for the perpetuation of this govern ment to one who, on his mother's knees, from his earliest recoUection, has been taught to reverence the names of Washington and his glorious compeers — that his country was bought at the price of much noble blood, and that it has been preserved in the midst of danger only by the magnanimity of the best and wisest of our citizens ? I have already wearied you, but my feelings have become warmed since I commenced writing, and I hope you will excuse me for writing so much. If the Eepubli can demagogues will not compromise, be theirs the eternal shame, and theirs the responsibility of civil war. What matters it to them if the Indian Territory and New Mexico be slave territory ? Mr. Webster said, and every body knows, that slavery can never flourish there. How little is asked of the Eepublican leaders. How quick the people would grant it, and I hope they wUl raUy round the Constitution, cast out their unworthy repre sentatives, and say for themselves, we will not be forever undone. But should the leaders continue obstinate, and the people not come to the rescue, all this even wiU not convey to any State the right of rebeUion. If a State rebel then,*8haU she be coerced? I said before, I beheve the Federal laws should be executed. ShaU Mr. Buchanan quit coUecting the revenue at the port of Charleston, because, forsooth. South Carolina in convention has STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 141 passed something which she calls an ordinance of seces sion ? I have great confidence in Mr. Buchanan's policy, and believe he ought to proceed with the greatest cau tion, treating South Carolina as nothing more or less than a State of this Union, which she really is. As a matter of course and duty, the Executive will collect the revenue, protect the public property, and continue the postal service as long as the State desires. When she wishes such postal service stopped, it wUl be no sacrifice on the part of the government to stop it. She is too selfish to desire such stoppage at present. As long as South Carolina permits the Federal government to attend to its own affairs, all is well — we will proceed as though nothing had happened. But when the State resists the Federal authorities in the performance of their duty, is this anything else than rebeUion? "Where is the boasted power and honor of our Federal government, if she silently permits one of her members to wage war upon and slaughter her citizens ? I say, let the honor of the flag be sustained/ whether in the port of Charleston, or anywhere else, either upon sea or land throughout the world. South Carolina has been altogether too hasty. The Constitution provides for its own amendment at any time. The Southern people should have insisted on an amendment which should give them their rights. With a spirit of candor they should have demanded a thorough investigation of the points wherein the North and South differ, and I believe they would have been met by the same spirit of candor by men of all persuasions. Instead of that, they are proclaimii^g themselves inde pendent States, led on by the corrupt and ambitious politicians who have gained ascendancy. I fail to find words to express my contempt for the rotten, mean, scheming, reckless, aspiring band of men, who seem at 142 STUDYING LAW IN ST, LOUIS, the present crisis to be willing to hurl down this fair fabric of empire for their own aggrandizement. They are men who have not much to lose, in case of dissolu tion, but hope to gain much, God grant they may be rebuked, their counsels brought to nought, and they be put to shame. The people can settle this matter some how, and in a way by which no dissolution shall, or need occur. As I was walking on Fourth street to-day, I noticed the glorious stars and stripes flung to the breeze on the summit of the Court House dome. There was a stiff breeze, and she waved as proudly as banner ever did, I had not seen our flag since election — ^the red stripes brought to mind the blood of the Eevolution, and the jcluster of stars, our Union blessed, and our prosperity since the gallant Thirteen bound themselves to repel the tyrant. All my patriotic blood boiled within me, my heart beat high, and for the first time in my life I felt really proud that I was an American citizen. I have had this feeling before, but never so strong. My heart seemed to flow forth, not only in gratitude for the past, but in strong, confident hope for the future. I find that I am a Union man all over — for Union unconditionally. If one State can not now get all her rights, let her stick to the Union, and battle manfully for them. She can get them. Eight must ultimately prevail. If a State demand privi leges that are wrongs, my moral principles will compel me calmly [and patiently to resist such demands. The great and difficult thing with us poor mortals is to dis tinguish accurately between right and wrong — that is, this is a great difficulty with honest men — those who always intend to do right. There is to be an Union meet ing irrespective of party to-morrow in front of the Court House, of which I will give you some account. STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 143 Sunday p. m., January 13. On Friday there was a good deal of excitement in the city on account of a guard of forty soldiers being stationed at the Sub-treasury, by order of General Scott. It remained there about twelve, hours. It is thought by some that some fellow, wishing merely to increase the public agitation, telegraphed to the War Department that there was danger of an attack. Other explanations are given. A crowd of people was standing about the Custom House all day, trying to get a look at the soldiers. Yesterday was a day for the people. Those who love the Union were to come together and lift up their voices that the whole country might hear. In the morning the city was alive with joy and hope. When I got down to Main street, I found the street for some distance lined with flags, and busts of Webster, Clay and Crittenden set in the second story windows. It was quite an excit ing scene, and one felt like swinging his hat, and venting his enthusiasm by a round of cheers for the Union. At two o'clock the people by thousands gathered on Fourth street before the court house. A set of resolutions were adopted, and several speeches were made. Some spoke glorious Union doctrine, while others were backed up, evidently, by a rankling spirit of disunion, though they tried to deceive the people by smooth words. I am sorry to say that I was much disappointed in the meeting. Some of the speakers, I believe, were dishonest, and had no other object than to cheat the listening masses into disunion. The meeting was called irrespective of party, yet members of the Eepublican party were hinted that their presence was not desirable. Frank Blair had sig nified a desire to speak, but there were hundreds of men there who signified their intention to stone him if he appeared on the stage. Offensive as the Eepublican 144 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. party is to me, yet I cannot bear to see in men professing love of country, such intolerance — such desire of stifling liberty of speech. I distrust such men, and find myself questioning the strength of their, cause. There is a question before our legislature for the caUing of a conven tion. Bids were made yesterday by some of our miser able demagogues who addressed the people, for an election to that convention, should one beheld. I pre sume, in case of a settled war between the Federal gov ernment and the South, Missouri will go with the latter, but I tell you her people will hate terribly to sunder that bond which has for years fastened them to a great and prosperous and honored nation. May the day of dis ruption be far distant. God grant that many generations yet unborn may see and enjoy the same great national blessings in which we and our fathers have participated. Should such an awful calamity as war come upon us, the City of St. Louis will become a bloody battle ground. I expect nothing else. "With a majority of Eepublican voters in a slave holding city, what else is it reasonable to expect ? But I will dwell no longer on these gloomy themes. Let us hope for better times soon. It looks this afternoon like rain. If there could be a rise in the river, it would give business a start which would dispel for a time the clouds which now hang over our city. There is no snow in this vicinity. * * * * I see the Post occasionally, and although I am much obliged to you for offering to send it, I hardly think it wiU pay. It wUl save a little, and every "little" is worth saving. I shall be fully satisfied if Carrie continues to send the Caledonian. I shall send this via. New York, Please do not forget that picture, I received a good, long letter from Mary last evening. Mother said something about taking her away from Andover. I hope she can STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 145 stay the year out. You know best though. Give a host of love to aU the f amUy. I shall answer their several letters as soon as I can get to it. We are all well here, and enjoying life. No news from Kansas since my last. Let me have a letter at your earliest convenience. Your very affectionate son. St. Louis, January 20, 1861, My Dear Mother : I suppose you in Vermont can have no conception of the splendor of this midwinter day. If you could be transferred here you would not believe it was January 20th, but rather that you had been taking a long sleep, and had awakened on May Day, I am in Emma's room, through the south windows of which the noonday sun pours in his cheering and luxuriant rays. It would be comfortable without a fire, but I perceive there is one faintly sporting with the few coals that are on the grate. We were astounded by learning from your good letter received last evening of temperature forty degrees below zero, I remember of such times, but yet they hardly seem possible now. The mercury has not got down to zero here yet. Last Sunday, the day you wrote, it was raining with us. St. Louis people, notwithstanding the fair present, do not congratulate themselves on winter past, but await a good many gloomy days before the spring. I wonder that your fingers did not freeze whUe you were writing me on_ that cold night about going to Canada to live. Did not they feel numb ? I am afraid you are a little too fearful in the present crisis, and are not inclined to let Faith do its perfect work. Indications are to me a Uttle brighter. No one can exactly foretell what is to come upon us, but I am stronger and stronger in hope and belief that we have —10 146 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. seen the darkest hour. Starvation and dictatorial rule will cure the reckless cotton States of secession, and the terrors of a crisis like the present, the northern body politic of their ultraism. A firm and dignified policy on the part of the general government, and a cautious mediation on the part of the border States, is in my opinion, going to bring an ultimate peace, and that, too, without blood. Mother, do not let us despond, but hope that there is yet patriotism enough left to beat back that band of political marauders who have seized, and seem determined to wrench asunder, our cord of Union, and that we may live a united people, happier a,nd prouder than ever of our stars and stripes — emblems of our liberty and Union. Our Legislature has caUed a conven tion of representatives to be elected by the people, for next month. I trust that temperate counsels may pre vail. I am getting along well in the office. Drew a petition for the Circuit Court the other day — my first trial. Think I shall like the law. I commenced reviewing my German, but newspaper reading takes up so much time, that I have given it up for the present (that is the German). Is it Mary's wish to return home at the close of this term ? I am rather sorry it is to be so. We are all weU here. Grandma stands all she is called upon to endure, as well as any of the rest of us. Uncle and George went out gunning yesterday, the first time since father left. Father wUl smUe when he learns that they got nothing, I have heard two lectures from John B. Gough this month which I enjoyed much — one on Temperance, and one "Lights and Shadows of London Life." TeU father I heard Dr. Nelson to-day at our church. Was glad to hear that Edward got a muffler at Christmas— mine is so comfortable. Carrie wiU like Charles Lamb. I was STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS, 147 especially gratified with LUly's presents, I had feared she was getting too old for dolls, but when I read that she had a "new dolly," I wanted to hug my little sis ter to my breast, and kiss her and have a good old- fashioned frolic with her. She doubtless remembers how I used to hide her dolls to plague her, "Bub" was naughty, wasn't he, Lilly ? Was glad to know she had some skates and was taking music lessons. Mr. Good win was having chills when we last heard. Ellen received a beautiful set of furs as a Christmas gift from numerous friends in Columbus. They are very happy together. Was much obliged for an account of that call. I saw a very sad sight last evening. A poor mechanic feU from the sixth story of the large new building on Third street, next the Post Office. I saw him just after hfe fell. He was literaUy all broken up. The blood was running from his mouth and had formed a pool on the ground near him. Poor feUow ! my sympathies have not been so strongly awakened for a long time. Probably he leaves a destitute and suffering famUy. There is a great deal of destitution in the city at present. By letter from Wyandotte we learn that all are well. Please write often. I presume you think I might have waited another week before writing again, after that long political document of last week. All send love, Eemember me to all with much affection, and beUeve me ever Your affectionate son, St, Louis, January 27, 1861. My Dear Brother : You and Carrie must not feel neglected, or conclude that your letters are not acceptable, for the reason that the time may seem rather long between their receipt and my answers ; but consider that every letter I send home is not alone for the one to whom it is directed, but for 148 studying law in st. louis. you all — a common sheet — partly in answer to each of your letters. You know I have four correspondents at home, and of course I can't write each of you every one or two' weeks. I try to distribute my letters about equally among you, but of late, business matters have necessi tated my writing father oftener than any of the rest. I can't see, however, that it makes a spark of dift'er^ nee. "Vou are all one family, and I comfort myself with the thought that each is equally gratified to hear of my health and happiness, never for once entertaining a jealous thought from the fact of any particular letters being indicted to any particular member of that beloved group. I received no letter from home last week, to my disap pointment — in fact, I didn't get a letter from anybody last week — something rather unusual. It is now more than four months since I saw you last ; four profitable months, I hope, to us both. I infer from your letter that they have been so at least for you. From whom was your application to teach ? I was a good deal surprised for the moment, but when I recollected how old you are getting to be, the wonder somewhat dimin ished. It was a compliment for you, certainly, but I think, on the whole, it was a piece of good judgment in you to wait till next winter, for the reasons you men tioned. How goes that barrel of cider ? I reckon with a rush. I wish, indeed, I might enjoy it with you. I get it here occasionaUy. I suppose you continue to luxuriate in temperature forty degrees below zero and five feet of snow. We have had it very cold here the last week — the mercury went down to ten degres above zero — also have had three inches of snow. It is mostly gone, however, and thawing to-day. Tell father we have a plank side-walk in front of the house, and running the whole length of our block either way. STUDYING LAW IN ST, LOUIS. 149 Are you in school this winter, and what are you study ing and reading ? How is Mr. Fletcher's business ? Is Henry keeping the books ? Has he given up college ? Is Charles still at Fairbanks' ? What room are you occupy ing*? I am in Emma's and grandma's room. Grand ma is on the bed, taking a nap. She sends much love to you all, and wants me to say that she enjoys very much all your letters to George. My health continues good, and if the swift flight of time argues contentment, I am certainly contented, as I can hardly see where the weeks go to. I want a longer letter next time than you wrote last, containing all the news. Give much love to each and every one of the famUy, and regards to inquiring friends. As ever, I am Your affectionate brother. TO MARY. St. Louis, Mo., January 27, 1861. My Dear Sister: I have just finished a letter to our brother, and though I haven't much time, yet I am tempted to commence one for you, hoping I may finish it by to-morrow's mail. Yours from Norton and Andover, enclosing two notes, one from our friend and one from yours, was duly received, read and re-read, and considered not one bit too long. Have no fear on that point ; you will never offend so. Kate's note was very acceptable, however uncompli mentary it might be. Hear the first sentence : " Mary is really in Norton, and we can find no better business than writing to you." You may give her my regards, if you think of it, when you next write. I remember Miss H. W. at Hanover, but never met her nor any of her sisters. When I first went there she was a little girl with short dresses, but during my course she 150 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS, gradually grew in stature, and assumed more dignified dress as the years passed on, until before I graduated she could lay good claim to the very lofty appellation of "young lady," and if I remember rightly, also was hon ored with that other title, with which no Hanoverian'can be unfamiliar, and with ' which many become far too familiar, I mean that of "nun," During our Freshman year and in her "little girlhood," I remember Charley fell in love with her, as he used to see her out sporting with her mates — rolling the hoop, may-hap — but I can't vouch for that, Charley was always falling in love. Many is the girl in Hanover that has conquered Charley without striking a blow. You know he was smitten with Miss W. Perhaps your friend A. was another victim of his affection. I am much obliged to Miss W. for her kind note. Please thank her for the "Happy New Year," and say that its "happiness" will be for me much enhanced if, during some one of its months, I may be permitted to share with you the pleasure of her acquain tance. You may post me occasionally, if you please, with regard to the whereabouts of Miss Wjk^*,;,,^,^, the little girl of the dark eye, and keen. I am glad you went to Norton, as it undoubtedly refreshed and prepared you the better to begin study again. I think you were decidedly popular that evening of the concert. Am glad Miss McKeen wouldn't let you, go. I don't believe in school-girls tramping about with the young men much. Your ovm sense of propriety wUl teach you that. You must have had a pleasant little visit in Boston. Was glad to learn you had been studying geology. Don't you like it ? It made me open my eyes pretty wide when I first read its theories. I am now reading Hitchcock's Eeligion of Geology. STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 151 Is Mr. Berry really at Andover? Don't let another week pass before you make yourself known to him. He wUl be very glad to see you. TeU him all about me, and give him my warmest regards. Tell him I don't cease to thank him for so earnestly advising me to take a course at college, and for his many other kindnesses to me at Lyndon. And now, since it is growing too dark to write, and the supper-bell will soon sound, I will bid you good night, my dear sister, wishing for you continually a healthy state of mind and soul and body, and a genuine growth in all the graces. Write quick to your loving brother , George. St. Louis, Mo., February 17, 1861. Dear Sister Carrie : Your letter of February 10th was received yesterday morning. I was much gratified and even fiattered with the confidence you seem willing to repose in me, and more gratified to see in you so much good sense in your pros and cons, relative to different schools. I am satis fied by that letter, that you have begun in earnest to study yourself, that you will henceforth be governed rather by reason, and the advice of parents and friends who have your progress and happiness deep at heart, than trust your bark to the pilotage of impulse and emotion. By the letter I discover elements of character which I always knew to be latent there, and which now have commenced a system of development which I trust will lead you on in the upward path, to the highest dignity of womanhood. You may ask our brother to carefully open the box in which are my books. The first thing you will see wUl be a catalogue which contains a list of aU or nearly aU the 152 STUDYING LAW IN ST, LOUIS, books in the box. Any book there which you or he or any other member of the famUy desires to look at, take and use. You know I like to keep my books in good order, and looking as neatly as possible. The Iliad, and Liddell's History of Eome are there. Also a Greek Lexi con which wUl have to accompany the Iliad. There is a book there called "The Federalist," which I know father would like to read. My papers and blank books of course I desire to remain undisturbed. In relation to the selec tion of a school, I want to advise well and faithfully, but I feel a great reluctance at present, knowing my incom petence to judge in the case. You say mother wants you to decide for yourself. Now I believe she wiU be wiUing and glad to counsel you, if you ask it in the right way. She never refused to advise me faithfully, and when I have followed her counsel, all has been well with me. No one better merits your confidence than she ; no one better merits your love. Look back upon your Ufe. Has there been one act of discipline when you believe she was actuated by other than the noblest motives ; by anything but strong motherly love for yourself ? Can you lay any injustice at her door ? You and I, my dear sister, have more than one act to atone for. Let us, by future kind ness, obedience, gratitude, trust, confidence and love, try to lift our misdoings from her recollections, and bury them with the dead past. To our parents we have great cause to be grateful. Who has better ? Whose children have better privileges, educational and moral ? Surely we have great cause to thank them, to honor theA, and to love them. I am willing and anxious to give you the benefit of my poor advice, as soon as I can feel any confidence in my ability to advise. If you will please send me catalogues of Abbott Female Seminary, Mt. Holyoke, and others toward which you have any inclination, after STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS, 153 examining the different courses, I shall feel better able to give an opinion. As there is no great hurry, I would like to have you think the subject all over, consult with mother and write me again, then after examining the catalogues, I will advise you to the very best of my abil ity. If you can find no catalogue of Mt. Holyoke, you might write to the Principal, requesting her to forward me one. You can consult with Mary in reference to the Abbott School. I was very glad to hear that Mary had so far recovered. Hope she will be able to return in the spring in perfect health. Look out for your health, Carrie. Be regular in your meals, eat simple food, and in reason able quantity. Take a good deal of exercise. To-morrow is our election for delegates to the State Convention ; we shall give a big' vote for the Union. Why does not father ¦ write me and send that picture ? Wish you would put yours in with his. Am glad to hear A. Little is to assist in St. Johnsbury academy. He is a fine man for any place. Almost all of you are now owing me letters, and I shall hope to "hear soon. Give a world of love to our parents, brother, and sisters, and accept much for your self from Your affectionate brother, George. St. Louis, Mo., February 24, 1861. My Dear Mother : I should do violence to my sense of gratitude, were I to delay at all in answering your kind letters lately received, informing me of Mary's indisposition, return and recovery, and of various other matters of interest. Good tidings from home — the return of one who has been long away, the restoration of a sick one to health, your prosperity, your comfort, your happiness, — aU these bits 154 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. of good news, whenever received lift a load of anxiety from my heart, which the interval between letters has suffered to gather there, and cause my blood to course swifter through its channels, invigorating my whole being and conveying a solid satisfaction through and through both soul and body. And I see no reason why this should not be so. All I love most is centered there. Home never was a more delightful topic for contemplation with me than now ;* and yet I am happy away off here so far from you, and shall be as long as I can hear often that all is well with you there. Knowing as I do that I shall soon be entrusted with the duties 'and responsibilities of a man, I am content in that place where my preparation for the great object may be the most rapid and thorough. Enjoy ing as I do a good home, and being satisfied that my field for preparation and my opportunities are good, how can I be otherwise than contented and happy. Would it not be very foolish to yield to homesickness, discouragement and discontent ? If father could have spent the winter in St. Louis, he would have a better idea of it than now. It has been a beautiful winter, — coldest morning six degrees above zero. For two weeks past it has been spring. Last Friday an overcoat was burdensome, and the streets of the city were sprinkled to lay the dust. Snow is an article we have not been cognizant of for some time. In making up an aggregate opinion on St. Louis climate, of course I must experience the hot months of summer. However, I will say that by forsaking the city for a more northern section for two months every summer, I think I could live very pleasantly in this city. Nevertheless, as far as mere climate is concerned, I have not a doubt that a home two or three hundred mUes north of this point would be pre ferable. If you think it advisable to leave St. Johnsbury, STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 155 I hope you wUl be guided to a selection of the right place for a new home. If you quit New England, you must expect to leave behind many blessings which cannot be found elsewhere ; many conveniences and pleasures and advantages must be sacrificed. I have wished sometimes that father might establish a business in Boston, and have a home just out of the city in the surroundings. Probably, however, he could start in business with much more facUity in the West. In case he comes West, I hope he will establish himself on the Missis sippi ;:iver, either here or at some more northern point. This is a matter in which, of course, I am deeply interested, and I want you to write me all your conver sations, views and intentions concerning it. I think it most probable that I shall decide to settle in the West. Whether it be in St. Louis or not, the summer will bet ter decide. If you should conclude to settle in some thriv ing New England town, and there was a reasonable pros pect for business in my line, I might after all conclude to join you. All is uncertainty. You wUl see at the head of my sheet my official seal as Notary Public for this county. I got the appointment last week from the Governor, through the kindness of Mr . F . B. Homes. My duties are to administer oaths, take acknowledgments of deeds, protest notes, take depositions of witnesses, etc., etc. These duties are right in my line of business, you see, and will furnish me some slight emoluments if I succeed in getting patronage. My commission, signs, seal, etc., have cost me about twelve dollars. I have given a bond of five hundred dollars to the State, to perform my duties well and faithfully. The unconditional Union ticket prevaUed in this county by a majority of about five thousand. Its supporters were Bell and Everett men, a part of the Douglas party. 156 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. and the Eepublicans. It is a good and patriotic ticket- It is thought the convention, which meets the 28th, will be overwhelmingly for the Union, if not further aggravated by the northern non-conciliationists. People in this sec tion have considerable confidence in Lincoln, Seward and Bates. Missouri loves the Union, — put that down for a fact, — and wUl aid in preserving it until she is actually trampled under foot. If Lincoln is a patriot, no matter what party he belongs to, Missouri will support him. If he prove unworthy his sacred trust, I fear the conse quences. The river is fast opening above, and trade is reviving here, — the city is much more lively than it has been. Good times, however, wiU not come again untU the times are settled. There is no immigration, — real estate and rents are falling. TeU father that new block on the north side of Olive, out here in Stoddard addition, consisting of some dozen tenements, has been completed three months, and is now empty, excepting two tene ments. The owner's price for rent per tenement when first completed, was seven hundred and fifty doUars ; it is now four hundred dollars. Tell LUly her dear little letter did me a heap of good, and that I shall answer it soon. I hope she wiU not grow very big before I get home, so we can't have an old- fashioned frolic. We had a tea party the other evening — Friday. Table in centre of dining room ; guests seated around the room at stands ; food and drink passed ; had a good time. Attended two lectures by Bayard Taylor last week. All are well but Emma, who is nearly well again. Uncle and I intend going duck hunting this week. Write me soon, and on an "old-fashioned" sheet. Love to all. Your affectionate son. STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 167 , St. Louis, Mo., March 8, 1861. My Dear Brother : You may be indebted for this reply to yours of the 24th ult. to my desire that you lose no time, or as little as possible, in waiting for the key to my box of instru ments. It was a mistake in me to bring it away. You will recollect that it turns twice before unlocking. There, my business is finished, and how to fill up this sheet in a way to interest you, I am at a loss to know. Two things suggest themselves at the outset, viz : the hot weather, and our hunting excursion of last week. Our spring has actually begun. Friday and Saturday last were oppressively warm ; thermometer stood at 80 degrees in the shade. The streets had to be sprinkled ; no fires were needed. Men went about town in their shirt-sleeves, office windows were throw^ open, and everything reminded one of approaching summer. The fields are beginning to look green and beautiful. The farmers are plowing and planting their fields, and you would see in the evening, just at sunset, scores of little children, bareheaded, out rolling their hoops and engaging in various other summer sports. It fairly makes me shiver to think of you in Ver mont, buried up in snow, and withering under the chill ing blasts of March. To-day we have had a good rain. As to our hunting trip ; last Tuesday evening George took uncle and myself down to Eobert E. Carr's, where we were to sleep, so as to be able to get an omnibus to take us to the depot early. I didn't get to sleep at all. The omnibus came at 12|^ o'clock, and we were dressed and on the North Missouri EaUroad train before 2 o'clock, five of us, viz : E. E. Carr, Mr, Burnham (of the firm of 'Greeley & Gale), Mr. Budd, Mr. E. and myself. We went thirty miles or more in all, some eight miles beyond St. Charles, to Dardenne's Prairie. We arrived at the 158 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. hotel, as they call it (a hard place), between four and five, fixed our traps, and had the boys harness up the mules into an old go-cart, with chairs set in for seats — and we were out on the prairie before sunrise. I hadn't slept a wink aU night, but didn't mind that. Not much more is required to tell the story. We worked all day as hard as men ought, but the water on the prairie was dried up, and the ducks had left, consequently we had no suc cess. Mr. E. shot one duck which was all the game kiUed through the day. We were disappointed and chagrined of course. You ought to have seen us at dinner that day, seated on rough benches without backs, drawn up beside the table, eating pork and bread and fried eggs, and for dessert bread and black molasses. It was a king's meal for us. At supper they passed us whiskey, which those who tasted said was the kind warranted to kill at forty rods. We took the cars at half-past eight o'clock, reaching home at eleven, and a sweeter night's rest than I had that night, mortal never enjoyed, I hope sometime to be able to give you an account of a success ful duck hunt, but this one must be put down a failure, though it gave me a good airing, and a little more knowl edge of the country and people, I saw the great Mis souri river for the first time, crossing it at St, Charles, Your affectionate brother. St, Louis, Mo,, March 24, 1861, Dear Sister Carrie : I find it a difficult matter to select a school for you, and am extremely unwiUing to assume the responsibility of deciding the question for you. However, as I never mean to be found wanting in humble effort to advance studying law in st, toUiS. 159 the interest of a sister or a brother, I will give you in brief the result of what consideration I have given to the three different schools to which you have referred. I con fess that I incline strongly, other things being equal, to the Elmira Female CoUege. The buUding itself, the regulations, the corps of teachers, and especially the course of study, I think are admirable. The institution seems to possess a dignity which other seminaries have not. The whole tone and management of the institution resemble that of a college more than female schools generally. But there are two objections to this institu tion, the validity of which father and mother and your self must decide. I refer to the distance from home, and the greater expense. If these objections outweigh the counterbalancing advantages, then a choice must be had from the other two. Andover is the more expensive, has less prestige, and not so good a course, in my opinion, as South Hadley. There seem to be two courses at Andover, the English, and the Latin and French. I don't exactly understand whether the two can be pursued by a student at one time or not, — the point is not clearly explained. I presume, however, some of the studies in both courses are elective, and a student may pursue, at the same time, part of each course. Such a system of study lacks method, but stiU I can conceive of instances when it would be pleasant and profitable to choose studies not included in a prescribed course, such as might be more congenial to a student's taste, for instances. In the course at Andover, Greek and German are omitted, so that the only- advantage it possesses over the South Hadley course, is in including French. In the Elmira College I see that Latin, German, Greek and French are studied. The teachers at Andover, in my opinion, are neither so capa ble nor so thorough as at South Hadley. Then I have 160 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. heard something of late which does not speak very weU for the character of the school, or the watchfulness of its teachers. You have doubtless heard the same thing. If I labor under any misapprehensions, or have made any misstatements in regard to the Andover school, Mary wUl correct them. You would have the advantage there of Mary's former acquaintance, and of having cousins there, which would be one not to be left out of consideration at all. But you know one soon gets plenty of acquaintances and good friends in a large company of students, wherever one happens to be. From what I have said you wUl gather that I prefer South Hadley to Andover. The for mer I have great confidence in, and should regard you in a safe place if you go there. Should you have good rea sons for preferring Andover, and should have the advice of parents and friends to the same effect, mind you I enter no objections, neither do I desire you to be influenced by my advice in such a case. I advise under unfavor able circumstances, being so far away, and unable to talk with you or anybody else on the subject. With what facilities I have for judging, however, my preferences are as I have told you, — first for the New York school, but as the long distance from home and the greater expense wUl probablyprove sufficient objections to this, 1 should advise you to enter the school of my second choice, — Mt. Holyoke. Be not in haste, however, to decide, or to decide finally, as a few months may make a change which would put these things in a somewhat different light. If our home is changed, we shall have to look at all these things from a different standpoint. Have you engaged a school? I should apprehend no difficulty in your teaching. Emma will probably go East in course of a fortnight. You wUl see her and learn from her a great many things about us STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 161 all, which it is impossible to write. We are all well and happy, and having fine weather. Let me hear again as soon as convenient. With much love to you and all the rest, I am as ever Your affectionate brother. St. Louis, Mo., March 24, 1861. My Dear Mother: Your letter came Thursday, and has kept me a little sober ever since. I have expected a change would be made, and have thought it advisable, but to know from good authority that the time is near at hand, when our pleasant New England home is to be abandoned, causes me to choke with emotion, even while I write. I find myself strongly attached to that home when the question of leaving it arises. If you are now to select a new resi dence, I want it to be in some considerably advanced town, as your age is such now as to render it, in my opinion, highly imprudent to commence a pioneer life, I want the change to be such as will carry with it just as little sacrifice of conveniences, privileges and pleasures as possible. Mr, Edgell thinks if he were to commence in the commission business now, he would go to Chicago, He thinks very highly of some of the Iowa towns, and so do I from what I can learn. If you select some place where there is a good prospect for a l9,wyer, I should be strongly tempted to settle in that same place, I hardly think I am going to be satisfied with St. Louis, — still I cannot tell yet. Edward's interests are to be consulted largely in this matter, as I suppose, of course, he wUl become connected in business with father ere long. He must stand ready to take it from father's shoulders when* —11 162 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. he begins to find business a burden. When I can be of any service in selecting a location, or in any other way, I stand ready to be called upon, and shall be glad to do aU in my power for those who have done so mach for me. Uncle, George and I went to wet prairie, about ten mUes over into Illinois, yesterday, for a snipe hunt. Uncle and I went in the buggy, and George on horseback. There was a terrible wind on the prairie, which was, as a general thing, wet — what you would call marshy — though there were some dry spots. It had been burnt partly over. Where the fire had not run, it was grown up with short grass and bushes. The grass on some of the prairies is higher than my head, — this would not reach higher than my middle. Very few trees were to be seen on the broad, level expanse. We rode and roamed over a good part of it, but did not see a snipe all day. Uncle and I killed about half a dozen plover each. I came near get ting a goose. I had crawled on the ground about two hundred yards, and was behind a tuft of grass, beyond which I dared not go from fear he would see me, when I fired. My gun was loaded for plover, and I was a little too far off, and so was disappointed. If I had had a heavier charge in, I think I should have got him. We reached home at half-past seven o'clock, and to-day feel refreshed for our airing. We are well, and talk a good deal about you all now-a-days, I assure you. Keep me acquainted with your plans and purposes. Very affectionately yours. St. Louis, Mo., AprU 7, 1861. My Dear Sister Mary: If to tell you of a very pleasant snipe l^unt, and of my continued good health and happiness, will make a letter, then you shall have one forthwith. Call my sheet and STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 163 its contents what you may, be it letter or scrawl, I will write familiarly what things suggest themselves as of interest, and sign myself at the end simply your affec tionate brother, comforting myself with the maxim, "He does well who means well." Friday evening Mr. Edgell, John Whittaker and myself went to Litchfield, Illinois, a town about sixty miles from here, on the Terre Haute and St. Louis EaUroad, for a snipe hunt. Our ride was through a delightful portion of the great State of Illinois. The whole distance seemed one broad, rich prairie, cov ered with alternate fields of grass, wheat and newly planted corn. The wheat fields especially attracted my eye. I had the pleasure of seeing Joel Hastings' resi dence in passing. It is a large square house, in the town of Dorchester, standing on a large, rolling prairie, and is only about a mile from the raUroad station. I wanted to stop, but of course could not. Should have enjoyed a visit with them. WeU, we arrived at Litchfield at about half-past seven o'clock, got supper and went to bed. Finding the feather bed that uncle and I were on rather uncomfortable, and not being able to get to sleep, I took a quilt and pillow and piled on to the floor, where I slept till five next morning. Breakfast eaten, we were off in a two-seated, covered carriage, with a driver, for the snipe ground. The day was very unfavorable, it being rainy nearly or quite half the time. We were not very successful, but had a good deal of fun. Uncle Edgell bagged seven teen snipe, one rabbit and a half dozen meadow larks, Whittaker five snipe, and I five snipe and three larks. I should like to meet you and shake hands sometime when I have on my long boots and one of Uncle Edgell's old hunting coats, shot pouch and powder flask swung over my shoulders, and my gun ready for its next unfortunate victim. We left Litchfield at ten p. m., and got to bed in 164 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. St. Louis at two o'clock this morning. We were both up promptly to breakfast at half-past seven, and I feel much refreshed to-day for my trip. We have been having a great deal of rain in this country of late ; as much or more than we need. Peach trees are in bloom, and the forest trees are beginning to show their foliage. I received father's letter Thursday, and should write him if I was not afraid he would be away before the letter reaches St. Johnsbury. I have thought that the present warlike appearances in the country might deter him for the present, perhaps. I shall be rejoiced to see him here,- I hope he will not faU to bring me that promised ambro type, I wish Edward and Carrie would send theirs by him. Uncle EdgeU says he wishes he would come here first, so as to go out snipe hunting with him once, as this is just the season. Emma will leave for home next Friday or Friday week. She goes to Columbus to spend a week or ivfo first. Grandma is in good health, and intended to go to church this afternoon, but rain prevented all the famUy going. Last Sunday Emma and I attended a fashionable Catholic church, the first time either of us had ever been inside a Catholic church. The only emotions awakened by the place and services were wonderment at the intricacy and number of the ceremonies, and admira tion at the beauty of the dress of the priests, etc, and of the pictures and other ornaments in the building. The service was disgusting in the highest degree. The Catho lics are very rich and influential in this city. We have heard from a Lyndon letter that Mary Chase was at home. Does she return to finish the year. I want you to take great care of your health. Exercise freely, and dress sensibly. You know what that word means as well as I, and I shall give no explanation. STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 165 Your example in dress, if it is good, will be worth a great deal to your two younger sisters. I am much interested in home matters now, and I hope to get letters from mother and Carrie this week. Write me as often as you can, and tell all the news smaU and great. Much love to all the dear ones at home. As ever. Your affectionate brother, George. St. Louis, Mo., AprU 14, 1861. My Dear Mother : Five years ago, and what a lunatic would he have been considered who dared predict the shedding of frater nal blood so soon, in this land of liberty. A single month ago there were few who actually believed that before another month the deadly batteries of Charleston harbor would open their devouring mouths, or that the sharp swords of countrymen would clash. First we were confident that no such dire calamity could ever over take our country. Then, when the clouds began to lower, and the suspense of danger hung around us like a thick mist, we could only hope, but that hope was yet strong. Our confidence in growing greatness and unin terrupted peace, unwilling, we are forced to abandon for a season, and our hopes are sadly unfulfilled. The tidings of war — have they come, or is it all a dream? The eager faces on our streets yesterday morning, the brief but earnest inquiries for the news, the trembling voices that discussed the opening war, the impatient crowds about the bulletins, the dispatches that shells were flying like rockets between the hostUe armies, and that it was a terrible sight to see — that the Fort was on fire, had sur rendered — that the gaUant Major was kiUed, and scores 166 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. of others — ^no! these are the pictured fancies of no dream, but all impress upon the unwUling mind the sad fact that war has begun. But I cannot dwell on this theme. By the time you receive this letter, some of the dispatches will be confirmed, and some doubtless pro nounced false. I faintly hope that by that time yau will have learned that affairs are not in so terrible condition as they appear to be. One party has control of the wires, and it is contrary ta experience to suppose that all our news is absolutely correct. Our community is highly excited, and it is difficult to say what turn affairs in Mis souri will take. Your letter was very gratefuUy received. If I had sup posed father would not leave tiU the 15th, I should have written him several things which I have learned by inquiry of late, in reference to the country which he proposes to visit. But I suppose it is too late now, as he wUl leave you to-morrow. Will the war news delay him ? I shall hope to hear from some of you this week, without faU. The picture you sent receives the praise of the whole family for its faithfulness. I received it Thursday p. m., and Friday had it put into a neat frame. My eyes have feasted themselves upon it a good portion of my leisure time since. The. only objection I raise to it is, that I fear the material on which it is taken is not very durable. Your account of the weather did really make me shiver. I wiU enable you to draw a contrast. The first thing which meets my eye, in looking from my window, is a sea of beautiful pink peach blossoms and white cherry blossoms. Over and beyond them are the rich green fields, and a wood just beginning to show its foliage. The lilac leaves are grown to full size, and the flowers will soon be in bloom. There are flowers in the yard now blos somed, whose names I do not know. The morning was STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 167 fresh and beautiful ; the forenoon warm and sunny. This afternoon the sky is clouded, and we are likely to have more rain. A great quantity of rain has fallen within the last two weeks — so much that it has prevented farmers from plowing and planting, and, in the northwestern States, is reported to have delayed planting so much that it will prevent the raising of a good crop this summer. The climate is colder north, and seed must be in early in order to insure a good harvest, I anticipate much pleasure in seeing father, and feel an aU-absorbing interest in the object of his mission, I hope he wUl not select a home for you in Kansas, I prefer Iowa by far, or Blinois, When I see him we can decide on the time for my return East. I am perfectly at home in St. Louis. The streets and buildings are as familiar and almost as well known as those of my native town. The temptations of the city I have found to be no stronger than they used to be in the quiet village of St. Johnsbury, and not so strong as they were at Hanover. By adhering to the maxim, "Beware of bad companions," I have as yet experienced no diffi culty. Occasionally I have drank a glass of lager beer, perhaps ten or twelve glasses, since I have been in the city. It is six months to-morrow since I commenced studying. I haven't gone over much ground, on account of considerable office and other business that I have to attend to. I like the study very much, and also the law yers with whom I am. We are going to move into a new office soon — one of the best and pleasantest offices in the city. You ask how I succeed in my notarial office. I have performed all the' duties it has devolved upon me faithfully, I trust, thus far. I have taken in fees now a little more than enough to pay up my outfit. 168 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. Emma will probably leave here for Columbus on Fri day next. She does not like St. Louis much., We have heard nothing from George Chase since I wrote last, but shall expect them this week or next. Write me all about Uncle D. K.'s visit and how his wife and Uncle and Aunt Alward are. I received a letter from my class-mate, Fred. Chase, the other day, in which he informs me he is a clerk in the Treasury Department at Washington, at $1200 per annum. He seems very highly pleased with his position. If Edward needs a rest, what better one could he have than stajdng at home this summer, and taking care of the house, yard, barn and land — having a general super- .vision of out-door matters, reading as he might desire, and not failing to exercise the pony as he might need. My health continues as usual, only I have felt a little lazy for a week past, and have not done much studying. Am reading Milton at my leisure, and have already become a warm admirer of his wonderful poetry. Grandma and all are well. Grandma went to church with us this morn ing. St. Louis is rejoicing in a prospective execution of her Sunday laws. The police issued a notice yesterday that beer houses, dancing houses, theatres, gambling houses, etc., etc., must be kept closed hereafter on the Sabbath. Gambling houses, in fact, will be suppressed altogether hereafter. All good citizens were glad to see the announcement, and will give the authorities their hearty support in carrying out these orders. Professor Sanborn, Mr. and Mrs. Pond, and a Mr. Stone, brother to my classmate, Dick Stone, called here last evening, and the evening was spent very pleasantly. It does me good to hear that I am occasionally mentioned when the f amUy, with some of their and my friends, meet STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 169 around the family hearth. " 'Tis sweet to be remem bered." You don't know how I want to see you all. Let me hear often and tell me all the news, for so you may keep me better contented. Love to each and all the family, and "a kiss for the baby." Your most affectionate son. St. Louis, AprU 18, 1861. Dear Father : Yours of the 15th is just received. I am not surprised to learn that you did not leave on Monday morning for the West, and at the same time I see no particular objection to your coming out at this time merely for an exploring tour. You would incur no danger in leaving the family there, so far from the seat of war, neither would you incur any in traveling over those sections of the country you wish to visit. Still I know one prefers being at home during any such troublous times as the present. This is undoubtedly a good time to buy prop erty in the West, if one is willing to take the risks. Eeal estate cotdd be bought very cheap in this city at present, but no one wants to buy. Even if you should make a selection of a new home in the West, I suppose you would not think of moving the family under the present state of affairs. I hope you will let them remain in your secure and quiet Vermont home until more peaceful times. St. Louis is suffering most terri bly from the present disturbances. Missouri bonds are down to fifty and three-fourth cents, and Illinois cur rency, which is based upon them to a considerable extent, can hardly be passed for anything. Common dealers will not take the best of it at less than eight or ten per cent, discount, and the discredited bank bills were 170 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS, bought by bankers last week at twenty-five per cent, dis count, but now they will have nothing to do with them. Missouri money, except in small matters, is at a discount. Exchange on New York is eight per cent., and very scarce. Gold and silver cannot be bought for Missouri paper at less than eight or nine per cent. premium. Our citizens will not be surprised any day to hear of a commencing struggle in the city. The Gover nor of the State is a hot-headed secessionist, and I believe, a black-hearted traitor, and he threatens, with his infernal posse, an attack on the arsenal. But the force at the arsenal is all ready to receive any such attack, and there are five thousand loyal citizens ready to assist. If any attempt is made to erect batteries on the high ground west of the arsenal, the guns will immediately open upon them and nip the thing in the bud, and if necessary, a force from the city will attack their rear. I have been strongly solicited to join this volunteer force for the defense of the public property, etc., and which is being drilled every day and evening so as to be ready for any emergency. I have thus far with held my consent, as I am not here, probably, for a great length of time, and remembering that you and mother have expressed an unwiUingness in late letters to have me become a soldier at all. However, if it should seem to be my duty to go forth to aid in the defense of the United States property in this city, or to quell the mad ness of a secession mob, I have no idea that you would object. I shall keep out of it if possible, but if the honor of my yet beloved country, my insulted country, demands my services, they shall be freely given. I think the secession rage is increasing ; many are growing desperate, but it is certain death for them if they undertake to get posession of the arsenal. They cannot do it. We have STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 171 glorious and encouraging news from Virginia to-day. It may allay the feeling here somewhat. But a rumor which has just come to my ears, if true, will more than counteract it. It is reported that orders have been received to-day from Washington to stop at this point all provisions destined for the South. I hardly credit this, but still such an order will come sooner or later if the war continues. The United States government will not feed the traitors if they continue in their rebellion, of course. Business had been first-rate at this port for the six weeks previous to the breaking out of this awful war. I want you to write me immediately and inform me of the state of feeling in the North. The dispatches report almost a perfect unanimity in favor of the government in all the free States. I hope the dispatches are correct. Active measures are, in my judgment, necessary. I hope the difficulty will be settled without much blood, but we ought to be ready for any emergency. I have seen enough of secession here to disgust me, and the willful firing on Sumpter last Friday only makes me stand firmer on the platform : "The Union, the Constitution and the enforce ment of the laws." Governor Sprague and B. F. Butler are deserving great praise, and they receive it from all the Union men in this vicinity. Governor Hicks is regarded with admiration. I must not omit to tell you, in justice to the Union volunteer force that is privately driUing in the city, that numerous companies of secessionists, styling themselves minute men have been drilling all winter, and are armed. They have a Southern flag waving over their headquar ters a good part of the time. Do any of my friends or acquaintances join the Vermont regiment? Write me full particulars. I shall still hope to see you here soon. I certainly think it a good time to come. Do you get 172 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS, St, Louis papers regularly ? I generaUy send one or two every week, I have not received a Caledonian for a month. My eyes are getting weak as warm weather commences. Am much obliged to mother, Mary and Lilly for their short notes, and hope to hear from them all again soon. As ever, Your affectionate son. St, Louis, Mo,, Sunday, April 28, 1861, Dear Mother : Imagine my surprise after having received letters from both father and yourself yesterday, in reading a dispatch in the latter part of the afternoon informing me that my father would arrive in the city on an evening train. Neither of your letters had breathed a word of such a thing, and nothing could have been farther from my thoughts, I was equally surprised and delighted, A short time after reading the dispatch, I received your second and short letter, advising me to leave St, Louis. I thought of jumping on to a boat and flying to Canada, but on consideration, decided to stay and have a talk with father. You will excuse and forgive me, wiU you not, for thus not implicitly obeying your mandates ? Well, I went out home, took tea, had a nap, arose at ten o'clock, started for the river, and after waiting three- quarters of an hour, the terry boat, which was to bring him, drew near the shore. I stepped on board, and soon was shaking hands with him heartily. He arrived safe and sound with bag and baggage. We drove toward home, where we arrived a quarter to midnight. Uncle and aunt were very glad to see him, but soon sent him off STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 173 to bed. We took breakfast at a little past eight o'clock. Father did not go to church, being rather fatigued. The rest of us did. This evening uncle and aunt have gone. Father aild I sit at my table writing. The Chases, after making us a very pleasant visit, left yesterday morning,— the very day father arrived. Was it not too bad ? They arrived here Wednesday evening last,— George, his mother and Hat tie. George found me Thursday morning, and took me to the hotel to see the ladies. I took them out imme diately to promenading the city, as they said they should remain but one day. We walked until noon, then dined at Barnum's hotel, and immediately took the horse cars for Uncle Edgell's. We got there all unexpectedly to Aunt Louise, as she did not know they were in town, but was, nevertheless, just as glad to see them. She put them at their ease very soon, and we had a delight ful afternoon and evening visit, and persuaded them to stay another day, changing quarters from Barnum's hotel to Stoddard's addition. We had a delightful ride in the country Friday A. m., — Aunt Chase, Hattie, Aunt Louise and myself. Afternoon and evening we visited, and Saturday morning at quarter past five, bade them a sorrowful farewell. George is in fine health. You will doubtless see him in Vermont soon. Uncle and aunt were much pleased with Aunt Chase and Hattie, and the visit seemed unusually pleasant on both sides. I was lamenting to George yesterday morning, that we should have no more company, probably, for a long time, but the dispatch in the afternoon happily dispelled all my appre hensions of loneliness. George expects to be in Ver mont some time next week. His mother and Hattie wiU not accompany him there. 174 stuDyii?G law W ST. LOUIS. The times in the city are rather more quiet than when I wrote last. The arsenal has now over three thousand men in it, and the secessionists have concluded that it will do no good to attack it at present. Nobody appre hends any trouble at present. J want you to quiet all apprehension of my getting into the war. I have not enlisted, and probably shall not. If our home were threatened, and the lives of our citizens put in jeopardy, I should not hesitate to take my position in the defense ; but as no such contingency is likely to happen, I think there is no probability of my getting into danger. I thought I would let those who desired, do the volunteer ing at present, and as long as there was nothing to be done. When my country seems to demand my services unmistakably, then I may think of enlisting, but I will try not to before. Do not fear,— never fear. Do not ever whisper the thought of fear to your sons when their country is in danger. What courage they have will prob ably never bring them to the grave the sooner. I did not like the timorous letter which my dear sister wrote Aunt Louise. It makes me want to fight the more. I think I appreciate a sister's love ; I am grateful for the tender affection which would draw me away from danger, but I would say to them, "in times of danger to country, whis per words of courage into your brothers' ears ; awake their heroism, by your hearty cooperation in their, desire to serve their country ; sustain what patriotism they have by smUes of approbation and support, when they propose to offer themselves on their country's altar." Have no fear for me, mother. Peace is my motto, when I can say peace honorably, and I promise you, for your sake, to keep out of strife, unless in self defense. Father has not told me of his plans yet, when he pro poses to leave, etc. He will write you, I presume. Let studying law In ST. LOUIS. 175 me hear often. I am still well and happy. Nature ought to make any one happy 'here now. This awful war, though, is enough to keep one gloomy. Good-bye. Your affectionate son. George. St. Louis, Mo., May 3, 1861. My Dear Brother : I find by reference to your last that I have not written you in a long time, but yoii have heard often through the others, so I presume you have not been impatient. We have been having a fine visit from father during the v/eek past. His coming was unexpected, but none the less grateful. Yesterday afternoon he decided rather sud denly to go to Kansas, and this morning I said good-bye to him at the North Missouri. EaUroad depot before five o'clock. He will be back in about ten days probably, when I expect to accompany him to Iowa. The weather is beautiful here at present ; flowers blooming etc., etc This is a glorious portion of our country. I wish you could ride over the majestic swells of land west of the city and view the agriculture of this section together with the beautiful suburban residences and grounds. It would be . a feast such as your eyes never witnessed before. The city, politically, is very quiet. No one can tell what is coming, but all hope for the best. The legisla ture convened yesterday, and the governor has sent in a secession message. A. mUitary bill will doubtless be passed, but if it is tinctured with secessionism, thou sands of citizens will refuse to be enrolled under it. Its enforcement in such a case, would be likely to be attended with a revolution. Our governor is a miserable traitor, and lies in his throat when he tells the people of the 1% STUD^MG LAW IN ST. LOUIS. great State of Missouri that her interests are with the South. Suppose she joins a Southern Confederacy; surrounded on three sides by free States, she would soon lose all her slaves, and then would have nothing in com mon left with the sister States. She would be the "tail end" of a cotton confederacy ; a field where the traitorous States instigating this rebeUion might transfer their battle gi ound, instead of bearing themselves the terrible compensation for their crimes. Missouri can never be anything in a cotton confederacy, in my opinion. How much higher a position could she take as a member of the whole Union ; central, abounding in resources, pos sessing a general and delightful climate, watered by the two noblest rivers in the world, what might she not become. New England and the North are doing nobly in this crisis. Eebellion, robbery, piracy, terror, treason have lifted their dire heads too high already. Although I would hope that the war might be short, and as little blood spilt as possible, yet I want the government ready for any emergency, and if necessary let us fight hard. The North — the government — has been assaUed and insulted. She has the right on her side, and is bound to triumph. How do you progress with your flute ? I have hardly played a game of cards since I came here. Do not you spend too much time at it. The family are all well. Aunt Louise has a new girl whom she thinks she shall like very much. Has mother a girl ? If not you must remember to lighten her cares and duties by any little assistance which your watchful eye can detect her in need of. Give much love to her, also to Mary, Carrie and Lilly. Tell all to write often, and keep up good courage. Eemember me to inquiring friends. Let me hear soon. Your affectionate brother. STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 177 St. Louis, Mo., May 8, 1861. _ Dear Mother : It is almost time for me to go out home, but presuming you will be anxious to hear often just now, I will write you a short note in time to send off by this evening's mail. I have heard nothing from father since, he left for Kansas. I presume he will be back the last of this week or the first of next. Our city is as yet very quiet, but we are to a certain extent in suspense, not knowing what is coming from day to day. The Union force is so strong, and so well armed in the city now, that we apprehend no attack, unless troops (secession) are sent in from the interior of the State, to aid those already here. About fifteen hundred State troops are encamped within a short dis tance of our house, so that I am awakened at five o'clock every morning by their drums, and can see their tents from my window. Most people suppose our traitorous Governor intends this force as a nucleus around which to gather the secession army with which he is to support southern rights in Missouri. If he strikes a blow, woe is his portion. He may feel a hemp rope around his neck, in a hurry. Unionism is strong here, and Iowa, lUinois and Kansas will give us all the aid we want. Notwith standing the undercurrent, our city is as quiet as one could desire. One can speak his sentiments with safety, be he Unionist or Eebel. We hope we shall escape conflict, but I am glad to see all loyal citizens preparing for any emergency. We are all well at uncle's, and talk of you often. Write what you hear from Gainesville. Give much love to all the dear ones at home, and accept much for yourself, and let me hear sooU; I may go to Iowa next week. Your ever affectionate son. —12 178 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. St. Louis, Mo., May 12, 1861. (Sunday morning.) My Beloved Mother: First let it be said that father arrived here this morn ing from Kansas, safe, and is now at church with the famUy. It caused me deep regret not to be able to write you yesterday, nor even send a newspaper. Aunt Louise wrote the enclosed note yesterday morning and I promised to forward it with a letter from myself, if I could possibly write. As soon as I got into town I pro cured a newspaper to send you, but my duties were so many through the day that I actually could not forward either letter or paper. In the evening (about half-past five o'clock), I was up town attending to necessary duties, and had decided as soon as they were performed, to go back to the office and write you and send the paper, no matter how late it kept me. It was then past our supper time. But on a sudden I heard an active firing of musketry a few squares to the southwest, and saw people running in crowds from the locality of the firing. I knew there was a fight, and concluded that it would not be safe for me to return to the office, so I bent my steps homeward as rapidly as was convenient. In this way, mother, you will have been kept in suspense one day longer concerning our troubles here, which you have gained some knowledge .of ere this by the telegraph, and which very likely have been much exaggerated by that unfaithful messenger, and I fear may have caused you some uneasiness in regard to us all. We are safe, but the two past days, Friday and Saturday, have been full of interest, incident, excitement and sorrow, too. On Monday last the State troops encamped in Lindell's grove in this city, only a short distance from our house, (I can look upon the whole scene from my window at this STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 179 moment), for what purpose was not known. They gave out that it was merely for drill and for perfecting the dis cipline of the State mUitia, and to be ready to protect the city, etc., etc. There were about fifteen hundred of them. They were receiving arms secretly by night from the South, and had in their possession several cannon which had been loaned the State by the United States last fall, for the protection of the border. At the same time the legislature at Jefferson City was holding secret sessions, so that the people could not know, of course, whether it was laboring for their interests, or plotting treason. The governor, the majority of the legislature, the brigadier general of the State, who was commanding the forces here at St. Louis, most of the officers and men, were known to be secessionists. Under the above cir cumstances the United States' forces were naturally apprehensive that something wrong was brewing, and they determined to act accordingly. On Friday after noon the town was wild with rumors that the United States troops here were moving in great numbers toward Camp Jackson (as this State encampment had been named in honor of the governor), and a fight was soon expected. Men closed their places of business, and were seen from all directions hurrying toward the scene of the anticipated engagement. I immediately started for home with Mr. Smith. Before we had gone far, we saw two thousand United States troops marching campwards, armed and ready for ser vice. Then we knew that what we had heard was a reality. The street by which I came was lined at every point with anxious women and children, some crying and others fiercely gesticulating, and denouncing the one side or the other. Men in carriages and on foot were hurry ing toward the camp. Anxiety, terror, rage and despair 180 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. were pictured severally upon different countenances which met my eye. As I neared home, I saw that every house top in the vicinity was covered with people gazing eagerly toward the camp. Soon a tremendous cheering met my ears, and going toward the sound, I found myself in close proximity with a regiment of troop with the stars and stripes as their standard, stationed very near our house. I then discovered that the whole camp was surrounded by a strong guard, and that the troops were a part of it, our house being enclosed within the line of guard. I began to think there might be some difficulty in getting home. As I passed along the line, I was stopped by each guard and questioned, but when they found I was loyal to their flag, they would shake hands with me and bid me Godspeed. When I came to the avenue which leads past our house, I discovered Aunt Louise, grandma, George, Mary and Jane on the house-top. Aunt soon saw me, and beckoned me to come. I approached the guard, the last one I should have to go by. He presented his bayonet at my breast and told me I could not pass, but after a little explanation and direc-, tion from the officer, I was 'permitted to go. I was soon on the housetop with the rest, and a very exciting scene was immediately presented to my eye. Soldiers in every direction — seven thousand of them — were on the ground. Aunt and grandma were calm but anxious, the former hoping every minute her husband would make his appear ance. Not satisfied with my position, I determined to go over nearer the camp. There I learned that the United States authorities had demanded the surrender of all guns, munitions of war, etc, and that the camp should be broken up as a treasonable gathering. Our troops were well prepared to enforce their demand. Cannon had been placed on eight different eminences around the STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 181 camp, so that they could have swept everything in a very few minutes. Gen. Frost knowing he could not success fully defend himself against so powerful a force, con cluded to surrender everything without a fight. Accord ingly, they laid down their arms, many officers breaking their swords instead of surrendering them. The officers and soldiers who would swear allegiance to the Constitu tion were permitted to depart, but all others were taken prisoners of war. About seven hundred were taken prisoners, including the brigadier-general and most of his staff. They were marched between long files of United States troops to the arsenal. The melancholy events connected with the affair are detailed in the paper I send you. Eight or ten of the dead and wounded were carried past our house. It was a sad sight, I assure you. Yesterday the town was boiling with excitement, which culminated in the sad event of last evening, to which I referred in the first part of my letter. The troops were taunted, insulted and fired upon by the bystanders, before they fired in return. It is a wonder that so few were killed in the affray. I think I heard a thousand guns at least, fired in quick succession. I will send you a paper containing an account also of this fight. Most of the prisoners taken to the arsenal Friday, yesterday took the oath of allegi ance, and were liberated.' I see Aunt Louise has told you I would perhaps write a letter to be published. I shall not do it. You may read to any friends those parts of this which you may think will be of interest, but in no event publish any part of it. I shall go into town this afternoon and mail this letter, so it may go out by to-nights train. I am as well as I ever was. Give much love to all, and believe me as ever Your affectionate son. 182 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. Keokuk, Iowa, May 16, 1861, Dear Mother: Father and I left St, Louis last evemng, by boat Han nibal City. St, Louis was quiet and peaceful, and the prospects were good there, I sent you a letter Sunday, In the afternoon of that same day, a terrible panic was created in the city by a report that our army officers had lost all control of the Germans, and that the latter were coming up that evening to sack the town. Hundreds fled the city in terror. The rumor proved entirely without foundation. I was exceedingly busy during the few days before I left, or I should have written you at length and sent you papers. We had a delightful ride up the river, though I did not sleep well last night on the boat. I hope some day to accompany you up or dovm the Great Eiver. You would be transported. We arrived here at one o'clock to-day, and are much pleased with the town, after looking it over this afternoon. I am in love with every new Western town I visit. This is the military rendezvous of Iowa, and the streets are full of soldiers. Flags are flying from almost every building, and altogether the city presents a very gay appearance. We leave for Des Moines to- morrow morning, going seventy-five miles by stage. On our return we shall "stage it" even further than that, as we intend to approach the river by another route. I will write you as soon as we get back to the Mississippi, which will be next week. All were well at St. Louis last evening, and father and I are feeling first-rate. We have a large, good room, with two beds. Father has just retired. Give much love to Mary, Edward, Carrie and little Lilly, and take much for yourself, from your affectionate son, George. STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 183 Davenport, Iowa, May 21, 1861. (Tuesday evening.) My Dear Brother : I wrote last at Keokuk. An account of our journey since then may not prove uninteresting. Friday morn ing last we left Keokuk by railroad for DesMoines. The ride by cars to EddyvUle, the terminus of the road, was not remarkably pleasant, as the road is located near the Des Moines river, and the valley of that river is rather low, and covered for the most part with timber. We saw some young buffaloes along the track, which attracted much attention from the passengers. We left EddyvUle by stage at three o'clock p. m., and as we rose to higher land, we found ourselves in as beautiful country as the eye could wish to rest upon. We rode all night in the stage, and arrived at Des Moines at nine o'clock in the morning, in the midst of a drenching rain. This town. Fort Des Moines, is the capital of Iowa, — new and not attractive ; the houses low and poor, as a general thing. I was quite homesick while there. Everything seemed to conspire against us. It rained nearly all day, and our hotel was so filled with members of the Legis lature, that we could get no room. We were very tired from our night's ride, and taking aU together, I thought we were in an uncomfortable fix. In the after noon we met a Mr. Baylies, a resident, who married a sister of E. A. Gaboon. He invited us to go home with him to supper and spend the night. We finally accepted, an^ rode with him to his farm, about five miles from town. He has a beautiful farm, comfortable house, seven stout, healthy boys, and one healthy, bright, pretty daugh ter. We spent the night with thein and had a fine visit. Mrs. Baylies is a capable Vermont woman, and her chil dren are proof that she is a good mother. We left there 184 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. in the forenoon, and at one p. m. left Fort Des Moines by . stage for the East. It was raining and the prospect looked gloomy, and our ride of one hundred miles was forlorn enough, I assure you. We rode aU night, and the heavy rain made the road dangerous as well as unpleasant. We arrived at Marengo at one o'clock yesterday, where we took the cars, much to our relief. After riding through a most beautiful section of country during the afternoon, we arrived at Muscatine at six o'clock last evening. This is a pretty and busy city of some five or six thousand inhabitants. We took dinner to-day at Fred. Stone's, in that city, and had a pleasant visit with him and his family. At 4 o'clock this afternoon we left there, and arrived here at seven this evening. Of Iowa cities, Davenport is the largest and handsomest I have thus far seen. We did not have much time after tea to look it over, but it is a beautiful place. I should like to see you settled here some time. I cannot convey to you in words anything of the beauty of the farms all through that portion of Iowa we have visited, nor of its river towns. You must see them some time. You would think you never could return to New England to live again. If we can hit boats to-mor row, I presume father wUl go north, and I south for St. Louis. Father goes to Wisconsin. Are you all well at home ? We are dying to hear from you. There are let ters for us at St. Louis now, I suppose. Continue to direct there. We are both perfectly weU, and I certainly have enjoyed the trip more than you can imagine. Stage riding in the rain is not very pleasant, but everytl^ing else has been all right. Much love to mother, Mary, Carrie and Lilly, and let me hear from all soon. Pre sume I shaU be in St, Louis Friday next. Do not have STUDYDJG LAW IN ST. LOUIS. 185 any fears, for me. It is all quiet there now. What do you think of the war? We are reaUy in it now. "God speed the right." Your very affectionate brother. St. Louis, Mo., June 17, 1861. Dear Brother: Father intends going this evening, and I will write a few lines in reply to your good letter of May 28. By to-morrow's Boston paper you wiU learn of another scene of bloodshed in St. Louis. I need not detail it to you, as father saw more of if than I did, and will give you an accurate account. Our office is within a very few steps of the scene, and we have heard all the firing, seen the dead and wounded carried past, and an excited populace rushing to behold the scene of the disaster. Our city is highly excited ; one party claiming that the firing of the Home Guards was in self defence, another that it was unprovoked. My belief is that the United States sol diers were first fired upon from the building which they attacked, but I am unable to assert this as a fact. Inves tigation will bring out the truth in a few days, and in my next letter I may be able to inform positively. These collisions and losses of life are very sad and much to be regretted, but still if rebels must learn at such a cost the danger of assaulting the loyal soldiery, their blood be upon their own heads. Hot weather is rapidly approaching here. It has been as high as ninety degrees several times. I wish you could walk into the garden with me this evening and get some cherries and black raspberries. We have a great abundance of them, and they are ripe and very nice now. Since writing the above I have been up to the locality of the occurrence of this morning, with father and Uncle 186 STUDYING LAW IN ST. LOUIS. EdgeU, who called in for me. We saw the blood of the victims in the gutter, and the uidentations in the brick walls caused by the terrible minnie balls. I counted about fifty of them. The locality is crowded with hun dreds of excited citizens. Since I wrote last, there has been considerable done of interest in our State. Governor Jackson and Major-Gen- eral Price came down here on Tuesday last, and pro posed dishonorable terms of settlement of difficulties in our State to General Lyon, which were, of course, quickly rejected. The traitor dignitaries returned to Jefferson City, burning the bridge on the Pacific railroad after them, and commenced preparing for war. Governor Jackson issued a proclamation calling out fifty thousand State troops, to drive the Federal soldiers from the State, — a virtual declaration of war. The United States force in large numbers left here as soon as they could get away, and they now have possession of the Capital, (Jefferson City) and many other places in the interior. Governor Jackson has fled, — nobody knows where. Our troops will catch him if it is possible. Missouri wiU I trust soon be in charge of the Federal forces, and we shaU then be quiet again. Jackson and his staff will undoubtedly flee to Arkansas if they can. I hope they wiU catch the traitor. Father will give you full particulars of all these things. I need not have written at all, I suppose, but I thought a word would not prove unacceptable. I used to have a sister, by name Mary. Is she stUl living and well ? I have not heard from her directly or indirectly for a long time. Was disappointed to get no letter last week from home. Hope you are all well. Give much love to all, and write me soon. Your affectionate brother. Chapteb VII. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. (1861-1862.) " You have shown me truths, O June^day friend, that help me now at night When June is over! Truths not yours, indeed. But set within my reach by means of you, Presented by your voice and verse the way To take them clearest." Mbs. Bkowning— ^Mrora Leigh. Letters from July 29, 1861, to June 30, 1862, inclusive— Return to St. Johns bury— A Summer of Recreation— A Public Declaration " On the Side of God and Religion "—Death of Grandfather Chase— Goes to Cam bridge August 29— Edward goes to California— Determination to Enter the Army— Return to St. Johnsbury. St. Johnsbury, Vermont, Monday, July 29, 1861. My Dear Aunt : After a short but solitary ride in the omnibus Thursday morning, I arrived at the railroad depot on Fourth street, to which, after the due amount of baggage-checking, newspaper buying, and busy waiting generaUy, we bade adieu, and soon after also to the soil of St. Louis and Missouri, crossed the great river, and with little delay, found ourselves "outward bound." The day was warm and the road rough, so that I had a hard day's work of it. 188 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. Arriving at Chicago, I felt so weak and tired that I deter mined to stop there and get a good night's rest. I went to the Tremont House, where I stopped till a quarter to five next morning, when I took the Michigan Central train and pursued my journey. I resorted to your bottle of mixture, which, I thought at the time, might appro priately be called throat-burner, stomach-fire, or some thing of that kind. During Friday I took two or three doses of it, but it seemed to do no good. The day, how ever, was cool (being somewhat rainy), and the cars were exceedingly easy, so I didn't get so tired as the day before. Arrived at Port Sarnia, I took a sleeping-car, and got a tolerable night's rest. Was awakened at Toronto at about five o'clock. Here we had an hour to wait, which gave me an opportunity to look about the city somewhat. After a long day's ride, during which I saw several specimens of Canadian girls, besides many other things too numerous to write about, I arrived at the Oltawa House, in Montreal, at ten o'clock Saturday evening, and after swallowing the final dose of camj'ire preparation, retired. Eose late Sabbath morning, break fasted, bathed, visited the barber, and then started for a walk. I looked about the city a little, visited the great cathedral and some other church edifices, and returned to dinner. In the afternoon I attended what I supposed to be the English church ; the forms were like the Episco pal. The edifice was new, and one of^the most beautiful I saw in the city. After service I again visited the great French cathedral and some of the other churches. In the evening I had a long discussion with an intelligent gentleman on matters and things in the United States. I went to bed tired and quite unwell. Monday morning I left Montreal, and at 11 o'clock a. m. reached Burlington, Vt. Standing in the telegraph office, which joins the office of IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 189 the American Hotel, where I stopped, my eye rested on a face intently watching the operator, who was reading the news to a crowd, as it came over the wires. This face, I knew in a moment, was that of uncle's brother ; so, after he was done listening to the news, I spoke to him, intro duced myself, and was soon engaged in a lively conversa tion. I soon learned the cause of his intense interest in the telegraphic news of the day. His oldest boy is in the Second Vermont Eegiment, which was in the thickest of the fight at Bull's Eun, and suffered a severe loss. You can judge of his anxiety. Mr. E. and his youngest son took me all about town, and were very polite. He has a fine horse and buggy. He invited me home to tea, but I was unable to go on account of an engagement to meet my classmate, Dick Stone, at about that time. I had a very pleasant visit with the latter. At eight in the morning I left Burlington, and in two hours arrived in Montpelier, where I spent the night. In the morning I saw our State House — a beautiful building. At about 9 A. m. I took the cars and arrived at White Eiver Junction just at noon, where I was obliged to wait two and a half hours. There I learned that mother and sister Mary had come down that day to attend the Com mencement and to meet me. Tuesday, at three o'clock, I found myself once more among the familiar scenes of "Old Dartmouth." I hastened to the church, as the exercises were about beginning. I had been in my seat but a few moments when I saw some ladies in the gallery beckoning to me, whom I was not long in discovering to be mother and Mary. I could not get to them conveni ently, so I had to sit there two hours or more before I could receive their greeting. The next day, after being bored almost to death with an abolition address and an abolition poem, we had the unalloyed pleasure of listening 190 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. to Edward Everett, who delivered so splendid an address on astronomy, that the two other speakers were most completely overshadowed, and will scaircely be remembered in the recollections of that day. On Thursday I heard the young men of the graduating class deliver their orations, and saw them take their honors, and also attended the Alumni dinner, where Mr. Everett was called up and made a splendid speech, and at which all had a splendid time. It is the reunion dinner of all the old graduates, and is always a most festive and delightful occasion. In the evening was the annual levee, where assembles the beauty and fashion and talent of Commencement. Mr. Everett was present, and several ladies were so fortunate as to have an introduction to him. Mother went to Bradford Thursday, and staid till Sat urday. Mary and I went home Friday, At Biadford I met little (?) Lilly, who had been there with some of mother's friends since ^he went to Commencement. You cannot imagine how glad I was to see her. I saw, during Commencement, over twenty of my classmates, and it was a most happy reunion, I assure you. I called at Dr. Sanborn's two or three times, and met them often outside. Mrs. S, and Kate called on mother and Mary, * * * Most affectionately yours. EXTRACTS PEOM DIARY. Monday, July 29, 1S61.— At home. Working on my scrap book prin cipally. Thursday, August 1,— Came with father to Miles' Pond, in Concord, to fish. Have been out a little while this p. M. Called on Jennie Hastings who is living near. We .stop at Mr. Dodge's. Friday, 2.— We caught about seventy-five pickerel, perch and pumkin- seeds to-day. Returned home this evening. Found DeWitte Duncan here. Am pretty tired this evening. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL, 191 Saturday, 3.— Joe Chase came this evening. Doctor Cohoon and wife were down from Lyndon. Thursday, 8.— Came to Miles' Pond with J. V. Chase for a fishing excursion. Jennie H. out on pond with us. Friday, 9.— Returned from fishing this evening. M. Helen Brickeit here. Called at Mr. Kittredge's with Joe Chase. Monday, 12.— Came to Lyndon this evening by cars. Called at Uncle Chase's. Am at Aunt Scales' where I shall remain till to-morrow. Tuesday, 13.— Drove to Burke to-day with Mary Scales. Pleasant visit. Goodwin and Elam not at home. Stop at Uncle Chase's to-night. Wednesday, 15.— Returned from Lyndon this morning. Hear the terri ble news that General Lyon, ot Missouri, has been killed near Spring field. Spoke in evening meeting, declaring myself on the side ot God and religion, asking the sympathies and prayers ot friends. Had prayers at home. God help me to persevere. Friday, 16,— Came to Miles' Pond this morning with E. P. Goodwin. Saturday, 17.— Caught a tew trout this morning, and got a good haul otperch this afternoon. Had good sport. Returned home this evening. Goodwin and Ellen went to Lyndon. Sunday, 25.— Heard Brastow at South Church. Mary Poland here to-night, to be ready to start fishing early to-morrow morning.* Monday, 26.— Left home this morning at half-past five o'clock with Mary Poland and sister Carrie, and sot to Tinkerville at eight o'clock. We have been on the pond fishing all day; pretty good luck; have had a fine time anyhow. Credit the girls with having got up ahead of me this morning. Tuesday, 27.— Out on pond this morning at four o'clock, with the girls and Hamilton Kittredge. Returned middle forenoon and got home atone o'clock after a splendid time. Heard with surprise and sorrow of Grandfather Chase's death at Lyndon. He was eighty- eight years old, and died very suddenly. , Wednesday, 28.— Attended Grandfather Moses Chase's funeral this afternoon at Lyndon. Doctor Cahoon thinks he died ot paralysis ot the brain. He had colic during Sunday night; morphine given. He went to sleep and never woke, dying Tuesday morning without struggle or apparent suffering. Musical convention this evening. Several ot the cousins at our house. Thursday, 29.— Came to Boston. Stop at Qulncy House. Came with Goodwin and Ellen as far as Junction. Met Charles Wheeler at Oxford bound for law school at Cambridge. Saw G. H. Chandler at Concord, and H. C. Welch at Lowell. *0n this evening they sang together "0 eome, angel band, come and around me stand, O, bear me away on your snowy wings. To my immortal home," and Mary's pure, sweet voice so impressed Itself upon me, that never since her death have I been able to near this song without yielding to the flood ot memories which it recalls. But little more than a year after George's death, this much beloved and rarely gifted girl was laid to rest in the beautiful cemetery. 192 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. TO CARRIE. Cambridge, Mass., September 2, 1861. My Dear Sister : Your interests have only been second to my necessities, since my arrival here last Friday. As soon as I got a place to lay my head, and even before, I commenced getting the requisite information in regard to Agassiz's school. Saturday he was not in town, or I should have called on him. Have seen him to-day, however. The instruction and society of the school is what I think you would in every way enjoy and profit by. I have called on two very pleasant widow ladies to-day, at either of whose residences you would find a pleasant home. Their prices are high — from $6 to $8 per week for board, room, fuel and lights. To-morrow evening I have an appointment to call at Mr. Baldwin's, where I expect to learn more about places, etc. There is another female school in the city well recom mended, which I shall inquire about to-morrow. I will let this letter remain unfinished till after my call to-mor row evening, when I will communicate any further infor mation, *and also a plan which I have been considering. Till then adieu to this subject. I arrived in Boston all right on the evening of the day I left you, and took lodgings at the Quincy House. Next morning went to Cambridgeport and presented my letter of introduction to D. U. Chamberlin, who took me up to his mother's, in Old Cambridge, where I very soon engaged room and board at $4 per week. Have a good room, but not furnished very nicely —no carpet — could have had it furnished to my taste by paying for it, but I shall econo mize as far as possible here, in such times as these. Saturday and to-day I visited Boston, making some purchases and looking about. To-day we met at the law IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 193 school and received our directions, and are ready to go to work to-morrow. My classmate, Charles Wheeler, is in the same class at the law school with me ; also a friend from the class of 1859, at Dartmouth; also a young friend from St. Louis, a graduate of Harvard. I find a classmate also — Bickmore — one of Agassiz's private students in natural history. Cambridge is a lovely place — too lovely to enjoy alone. I hope you will soon be able to enjoy it too. What more I have to write shall be written to-morrow evening or Wednesday noon. Good night. G, E. C, Tuesday Evening. Have just returned from Mr. Baldwin's. Have learned nothing new there of the school or a boarding place. Now for the plan I spoke of last night. How would it suit you to come here to Mrs. Chamberlin's and live ? I will tell you something about the place and circumstances, and you can think them over. I occupy a large and pleas antly situated room. Out of this opens a small bed-room, which I could have had at the same price (the two rooms at the same, I mean), but being alone, I thought it would be more pleasant for me to have only one. Now there might be a narrower bed put in there, and you might sleep there, and have it for your private room when you want to be alone. At other times you could occupy mine — we would have it together — both would be warmed by a stove in my room. The little room is large enough for bed, toilet table, chairs, etc., and might be made quite cozy. You could receive your calls in the parlor below. I have not suggested a word of the above to Mrs. C, but I think I could effect the arrangement if you and the —13 194 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. rest think best. Mrs. C. is a plain, good, old-fashioned old lady, as neat and nice as a pin. In this way you could get along for about half what it would cost you at the fashionable places, and at the same time enjoy all the advantages of the school. Think it over and consult, and let me know immediately. Will write a little more to-morrow. In haste to get to bed, GeoUge. Saturday Morning. I called this morning to inquire of Miss Lyman's school, but do not think it just the one for you. It is on the same plan as Agassiz's, but with inferior teachers, in my opinion. Her tuition would be $100 for such branches as you would desire to take. Think over the plan I suggested last evening, and let me know as soon as possible, so that I may be in season with Mrs. Chamberlin. Much love to aU the family from your and their affectionate George. to carrie. Cambridge, September 7, 1861. My Dear Sister: Yours of yesterday, directed to Cambridgeport, reached me to-day some five or six hours later than if it had been directed simply to Cambridge. My address is Box 330, Cambridge, Mass., which will also be yours if you come here. I have suggested the plan to Mrs. Chamberlin, and she has assented to the arrangement, provided you wish it. Board will be $3 per week for each of us, and the two rooms will be $1 per week — fifty cents each. This is on condi tion that you take care of the rooms, which will not be much for you. Thus we shall get our board and rooms for f3.50 per week, each — very cheap for Cambridge. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 195 Mrs. C. would let her lower parlor at $1.50, but I think you would find the small room comfortable and conve nient as a private room, and my room is amply large as a study room for both. There are two large closets opening out of my room, one of which can be connected by the small room by throwing open the closet and small room doors and letting them meet, thus forming a covered passage from small room to closet. Thus the closet can be made almost as convenient as if it opened directly out of the small room. There are two doors opening out of the small room — one into mine, and the other into the front hall — so that you can leave or enter your room with out passing through mine. With a single bed in the room, there is plenty of space left for a toilet table, wash- stand, and a couple of chairs. There is only one window in it. In my opinion it could be made cozy and pleasant, and would satisfy you. There is now a straw carpet on, and if there is a carpet at home of light color and neat pattern, that can be spared, I would bring it, as it would add much to the comfort of the room. If you decide to come, I will let you know the dimensions of the room, so you can make carpet to fit. My room is too large to car pet with anything you have at home, I think. Will try and get along without. I meant to go to Boston to-day, to make inquiries about a situation for Edward, but have been too unwell. Have been confined to the house for two days. Mrs. Chamber lin was very kind to me, and I am now recovering rapidly. I hope, on receipt of this, father and mother will decide to let you come to Cambridge and try it, anyhow. You can change your boarding place at any time if you do not like it, but I think you will. I give you below a rough sketch of the two rooms. Much love to all. Affectionately, George. 196 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. Cambridge, Mass., September 8, 1861. My Dear Grandma : To you, always so worthy in example, so faithful in Christian counsel, and so solicitous for the spiritual wel fare of the whole human family, I desire to communicate something whicb I hope and doubt not will prove wel come intelligence. For many years I have been con vinced that my first and highest obligations were to God, that His glory ought to be my chief concern, and that my whole hope of a happy eternity must be through repent ance, and the mercy of God for the sake of Christ, who has so dearly atoned for us all. Although for a long time intending to make these con victions public, I have always lost courage, until whUe at home this summer the duty seemed so imperative, and withal so reasonable, that I could no longer resist. At one of our Wednesday evening meetings I told the world of my interest in religion, my desire to be a Christian, and my determination thereafter to try to lead a better life, and asked their prayers for the forgiveness of my sins, and for strength to persevere in well doing. I know this step imposes new obligations on me, but it will bring, . too, its comforts and rewards, and I humbly pray that I may be divinely aided to follow it up with diligence and faith. I know I shall have your sympathy and prayers without the asking, and also those of my dear Uncle and Aunt Edgell, but you may all be assured that they are especially desired. I came to Cambridge Friday, August 30, and presented a letter of introduction from father to D. U. Chamberlin, who took me to his mother's, where I have obtained room and board. It is a quiet, nice place. The advan tages of the law school are very superior, greater than I supposed before I came. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 197 All were well at home when I left. We carried Grandpa Chase to his last resting place the day before. I came as far as W. E, Junction with Mr. Goodwin and Ellen who were on their way to Ohio. Affairs in Missouri seem to be getting worse and worse. What a terrible deed was the letting the railroad train down into the chasm from the bridge, the other day. I hope judgment will overtake the perpetrators. Am very glad to learn that you have endured the summer so well, and I hope that your life and health may long be spared. If it is difficult for you to write, you must not feel obliged to answer this, but be assured that a letter from you at any time will be most welcome. Your affectionate grandson, Cambridge, September 11, 1861, My Dear Brother : On learning your sudden decision through Carrie's letter this morning, I was overwhelmed not only with surprise, but with grief, at the thought of your separating yourself so soon and so far from all those that love you best. It hardly seems as though we could let you hazard the perils of a rough and an infested ocean to seek a home among strangers in that far off Pacific State, But if your inclinations and judgment say go, let me not write a word to dampen that ardor and courage so necessary in the starting, the journey, and the manifold trials you must expect to meet before you are settled, I had hoped, if you concluded to leave New England, you would seek a home in the Mississippi Valley ; perhaps in some of those beautiful bluff towns of Iowa. When I was in the West I used to think these things over again and again. I was not certain but that on visit ing St. Louis you might like that thriving city, and adopt it as your home. Then I thought we might be neighbors 198 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. — a blessing I hardly dared hope for. If you should choose some up-river town, then I used to think how pleasant it would be for your family to visit mine and enjoy somewhat of city life in the autumn season (so beautiful in St. Louis), and for mine to visit yours when the hot months compelled us to seek a cooler latitude. Then how delightful to join families and seek the more northern regions still, and for a while in summer, recruit, recreate and luxuriate among the brooks and lakes, and beside the Minnehahas of Minnesota. And not less delightful was the thought of together seeking the home of our childhood, and visiting for a season with those we love. Perhaps everybody has these dreams ; more, I will warrant, than see them fulfilled. These were mine, cer tainly, and this first apparent blow upon them, fills me fuU of sadness. But it is not strange that my wishes and dreams do not coincide with your views and purposes. Every one must be his own judge in such things to a great extent, but it does seem to me, as I look at it now, that you are a little too hasty in leaving a good home in the midst of the present distractions. But I will not advise ; I can only hope that you will be guided in the right path by counsel higher than human, preserved and sustained by Him who is aU-powerful, prospered by Him who is ever good, and saved by Him who is full of mercy. My sympathy, affection and prayers shall ever go with you. If you still think best to go, wiU not Boston be in your way ? I hope so, and shaU feel very badly not to see you again. Spend a day or two with me if you can. I had set Saturday again as the time to go into Boston and inquire after a place for you, but sickness prevented. Was intending to do it next Saturday. Do you wish it ? Let me hear from you. Your most affectionate brother. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 199 Cambridge, September 15, 1861. Dear Brother : Yours of the 12th was received yesterday morning. I can understand your restlessness and discontent at home, with nothing in particular to do. I have experienced it to some extent, and think it is natural to nearly all young men ; it often leads them to make hasty and unfor tunate moves. After the world begins to knock them around, they look back with an intense longing, some times, for the days of quiet leisure at home. You will, when some hour of sorrow or misfortune shall come, wonder you could have been uneasy in the peace and retirement of home. But still it is not best for a young man to remain at home too long, idle. And while it may seem to me that you are rather young to take the great step you contemplate, while my love for you feeds my fears for your safety, yet I would not have you think I am opposed to your going. If your mind is set on making a launch for yourself, I would not say a word to hinder, I admire your courage in starting off on so long and peril ous a j ourney, and I pray that you may safely see the end of it, and that the most abundant success may attend your every effort after your arrival at your destination. California is, no doubt, a beautiful State — a State that must progress, too. The nation will insist on a railroad to San Francisco sometime. That city is, in my opinion, destined to be one of the largest in the United States. Thousands have got wealth there, and thousands more will, in time to come. I understand there is a good deal of emigration there this fall. I hope you will come via Boston, but if that should be deemed inexpedient, and this be the last time I should write before you start, I want to enjoin upon you to write us at every point on the voyage where you 200 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. can mail a letter, and after you get there, not to let a steamer come east without a letter for some of us. Our anxiety for you will be incessant. The book I sent you — "Two Years Before the Mast" — you will like. It is a very interesting narrative of a voyage round the Gape and up the coast of the two Americas, and back. Father got you a beautiful trunk and valise, did he not ? No matter into what far-off corner of the earth we go, we can but remember our parents, with the utmost love and gratitude, I met my classmate, Wilson Palmer, in Boston yesterday. He inquired very kindly for that brother of mine who was in Hanover awhile. He was much surprised to learn of your present intentions. I was rather disappointed not to find father at the Ameri can yesterday, but I had a fine time while I could be with him. Hoping to see you soon, I remain, as ever. Your affectionate brother. Cambridge, October 9, 1861. My Dear Brother : Although I have little to write, yet I suppose to you the bare receipt of a letter, and the mere sight of a familiar chirography, will be of some comfort. To-day I presume you reach Panama, and will soon commence your Pacific voyage. I have traced your proba ble progress every day, and have had you most frequently in my thoughts. How did you get along with seasick ness ? I was very glad to hear that Page concluded to go by the same boat with you. I was never much acquainted with him, but had quite a talk with him in Boston the Monday after you left, and liked him very much, I hope ^our other companions are as pleasant as he. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 201 I can say but little to interest you in reference to Carrie and myself since you left. After bidding you good-bye we went up to Mr. Brickett's, took tea, and then went to Gilmore's Promenade Concert at the Music Hall — a very pleasant entertainment. Monday, Sept. 30, we received a carpet from home, the one which was in the northeast corner room up-stairs. Our room looks much more com fortable since we got it down, and is much more comfort able. Tuesday, October 1, the day you sailed, we had a call from Jennie H. and Miss Anderson. Wednes day night we heard Edwin Forrest in Damon and Pythias, at Boston Academy of Music. This was Carrie's first visit to a theatre; and she was, of course, much delighted- Forrest is a great tragedian, and I wish you were here to go occasionally to hear him. We are going Friday night next, to hear him in Shakspeare's King Lear. Monday night, September 7, I went in alone, and heard him in Bulwer's play of Eichelieu. yesterday was rainy, but to-day opens fair and fresh. Carrie is at school ; she likes it very much, and I think will make good progress. I am pretty hard at woi:k now-a-days, as I have a Moot Court case for October 31, which requires considerable study. We have heard nothing of importance from home except the ever-welcome intelligence that they were all well. Mother and all feel great anxiety for you. You wiU, of course, write at the earliest possible moment, to relieve it. In national affairs there is nothing new. Our armies stand stock still, as when you left. It does not seem as though they were ever going to do anything. Sumner made an abolition speech at Worcester the other day, which has brought down a flood of indignation on his head from all parties. I think the state of public sen timent is improving in New England, and that now the 202 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. minority is very small who would make this a war of emancipation. In Missouri, Gen. Fremont is trying to retrieve his fortunes by following Price, etc., southward; hope he may catch him, and not get caught himself. There, has been an exciting rumor of the capture of New Orleans by the Federals, but it was unfounded. I think, however, we shall soon hear of effective blows struck by our naval force on some of those southern seaports. You must write soon and often, and give me lots of par ticulars and general news. I most fervently hope to hear of your safe arrival and good prospects. Be careful of your health — both of body and soul, Carrie, if here, would write, but I think this letter ought to be in immediately, to go by boat of 11th, Farewell. Your affectionate brother. Cambridge, October 19, 1861. My Dear Aunt : I am sorry not to have been able to write you before. I have had many things to tell you, and have much wanted another of your good letters from St. Louis, but my duties for the past month have been very pressing, so that I could attend to little else. I am one of the counsel in a Moot Court case to be tried October 31, which, added to my other duties, keeps me very busy. There is every inducement and facility here for study. We have two lectures daUy which I always abstract. Then there is a great^deal of collateral reading to do, both from text books and reports of cases referred to in the lectures. The law students generally are a very faithful, hard working class of men. We have the best and most accommodating instructors, and I count it a yery great privilege that I am permitted- to be here. Sister Carrie is here (as you probably learned from George Chase) at IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 208 Professor Agassiz' school for young ladies. She has been here about three weeks. We both room and board at Mrs. Chamberlin's. The front parlor chamber serves for our study and sitting-room and my sleeping room, and Carrie has a neat, cozy, little bed-room opening out of it, as her private room, so you see we live in a home fashion. You probably learned also from George, of my brother's departure for California. He came down here at the same time Carrie did, spent two or three days with us, and sailed from New York the 1st day of October, expecting to reach San Francisco about the 25th. It was a sad day for us all when he left. He is only nineteen, and has no friends in California excepting some of father's acquaintances who knew Edward only as a little boy. I hope he will find some body to take an interest in, and befriend him. One or two young men, who were acquaintances, went by the same boat. His decision to go was very sudden, as it was not made when I left home, though I knew he was desirous of going somewhere to get into business. He was tired of school, and had become restless staying at home with nothing to do but chores. How lonely he must be to-night, if it lightens and thunders and rait^s off there on the Pacific as hard as it does here. It is a moat dreary night. I hope that he is safe and that God will preserve and comfort him. You see the family is being scattered — only two children are at home now — Mary and Lilly. They write us that it seems a little lonely there. Father has been in Boston once since I came here. He walked into my room unheralded one day, giving me a most grateful surprise. He has been engaged for the State in business connected with the regiments. 204 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. Carrie and I go into Boston often, lion-seeing, shop ping, making caUs, attending lectures, etc. We heard Edward Everett at the Music Hall on The State of the Country last Wednesday evening. He delivered a most splendid oration in that way in which he only can, to one of the most magnificent audiences that Boston, has ever furnished. I sent you a paper containing a meagre abstract of the oration. When he had concluded a detail of the calamities and miseries which a few dema gogues had brought on us and quoted the lines from Addison : "Is there not some chosen curse. Some hidden thunder in the stores of heaven Red with uncommon wrath, to blast the man. Who owes his greatness to his country's ruin." The effect was tremendous. I believe I never saw an audience so thoroughly aroused. The applause was terrific, extending to loud cheers. It was one of those occasions which one is privileged to enjoy only now and then during a lifetime. What is the news in St. Louis ? I want to hear everything. My thanks for the papers you have sent. Life here is devoid of much of that excite ment I used to get there. For the sake of old times and variety, I almost feel as though I would like to hear an occasional "Hurrah for Jeff." Such things are not so common in St. Louis now as last summer, I suppose. What do you and uncle think of Fremont ? How sad has been the issue of almost everything done in Mis souri thus far. How are grandma. Uncle Edgell, George, Mary, Stephen ? Tell me all about them, and give much love to them all. Please remember me to the Sanboms if convenient. Is Miss Mary with them, or was she left in New Hampshire ? I saw a day or two since an IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 205 announcement of the death of Professor Long, of Dart mouth. He was one of my most beloved and respected instructors in college. How are Fox, the dogs, the cats, the peaches, the pears, the tomatoes, grapes, etc., etc.? How I wish I could step in this evening and spend the night and coming Sabbath. It is about ten o'clock by our time— nine by yours — just about the hour I used to say good night. So say I now, and humbly ask God's blessing on us all. Your affectionate nephew. Cambridge, November 6, 1861. Dear Mother : I have at last got hold of my quill, to commence a letter for you. Our first term is nearly half gone, while it seems hardly commenced. I believe I well deserve to be dubbed a "slow mortal," as although I keep at something all the time, yet I do not seem to accomplish much of anything. Since coming to Cambridge I have been on the move con tinually, but don't see the corresponding progress. Our Moot Court case was tried on Thursday last, and we get our decision to-morrow. I intended to write you immediately after the trial, but several long delayed calls had to be made, and many things attended to which I had deferred till I was more at leisure. Monday night I spent with Palmer, a college classmate, at West Cam bridge, four miles from here. Last evening Miss Eankin called. Perhaps I ought to tell you something about the law school, and my duties in connection with it. Its library is one of its most important features. It contains all the books that a lawyer ever wants to refer to, and is kept warmed day and evening, so that we have access to it it at all hours between eight a. m. and nine p, m. There are desks, stationery, etc, for our convenience, and it is 206 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. there that we prepare our Moot Court cases. We have two lectures per day five days in the week. The first is between eleven a. m. and twelve m. ; the second from quarter past twelve to one p. m. We are very soon to have a third lecture in the afternoon. It is my custom to take notes on each lecture, and write out an abstract of it afterwards. In this way I have thus far written about one hundred and seventy-five pages. Then, much of my time is occupied in reading on the subject of the lectures, to get a more comprehensive idea of the topics treated of. A very important feature of the school is the Moot Court's, of which there is one each week. One of the faculty gives out some difficult question of law, and assigns four students as counsel to prepare and argue it before him, as an imaginary Judge of the Supreme Court. The next week he gives an elaborate decision. It is said that these Moot Court cases are, as a general thing, better prepared and tried than the average of the cases tried in the Supreme Court of Massachusetts. On the whole, I regard the school as a most excellent place to study law, and feel that I can hardly be thankful enough for my advantages. The collateral privileges are also very great. The use of the college library, access to the college lee-' tures and our proximity to Boston all help along the faith ful student in the laborious work of fitting himself for his part in the "drama of life." Carrie and I have been so fortunate as to secure tickets to the Dowse lectures at Cambridgeport — a course paid for principally by a fund for the purpose. This afternoon I go to hear Agassiz lecture on geology, and it is time now to start. I must not delay this letter till to-morrow. Carrie is doing well, I think. We go into Boston about once a week for recreation, sometimes shopping, sometimes IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 207 making a call, and sometimes visiting places and things of interest. My health is pretty good ; am taking con siderable exercise — am at the gymnasium an hour each day, between five and six p. m. When I go to Boston I gen erally walk one way— distance three and a half miles. I wish you could step in and see how comfortably we are settled here, and I hope you may before the year is out. You must excuse this rambling sort of a letter. It is so long since I have written, that I hardly know where to begin or what to say. I was most thankful to hear from Edward. Send your first letter from San Francisco without delay. Much love to father, Mary and Lilly. Good-bye. Affectionately, etc. Cambridge, November 23, 1861. (Saturday Evening.) My Dear Brother : We received your interesting and excellent letter this morning with thankful hearts. It was forwarded to us as soon as it was read at home. This evening I have read it to Mrs. Chamberlin, who takes much interest in you, and wishes to be remembered. She complimented the letter very highly, and thinks it wonderful that you can keep so good spirits away off there. Your letter from Aspin- wall we also read with great interest. It is surprising that you should have had so pleasant a voyage, and have arrived at your distant destination in such perfect good courage. I wrote you about a fortnight after you left, which letter I presume you have received, and I ought to have written you again ere this, but a thousand things have ocurred to prevent. I never was more busy than I am this autumn and have written very few letters indeed. 208 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. Since you left, Carrie and I have been quietly pursuing our student-life here in this classic city, getting enough of amusement and variety to make the time pass swiftly and pleasantly. Our rooms are much more cozy and home-like than when you saw them. Our board and rela tions with the family are very agreeable and satisfactory. On the 15th of October we heard Everett at the Music HaU on "The State of the Country," and a most splendid treat we had, I assure you. We had excellent seats, where we could see and hear perfectly well. * * * We had been to hear Forrest twice, but his performances gave no such satisfaction as this. There is a course of lectures here in Cambridge, each winter, called the Dowse lectures, supported principally by a fund. As many as desire to attend them record their names, then from the whole are drawn out by lot a sufficient number to fill the hall. Those drawn can have tickets for the whole course for fifty cents. The whole number applying this year was over three thousand, and the hall holds only seven hundred. Carrie and I were both so fortunate as to get tickets. The first lecture was by Curtis, of New York, the second by Bayard Taylor, and the one on next Tuesday evening is by Chapin. We occasionally go out to spend an evening soci'ally, and occasionally have caUs ourselves. We go into Boston frequently, and are in every way situated to our liking. The week just closing has been a vacation in the law school. Carrie has had a vacation since Wednesday. Thursday was Thanksgiving Day in Massachusetts. We had the customary New England dinner, and enjoyed the day as well as could be expected in our separation from friends. The evening we spent at Mr. Hyde's, a relative of Mrs. Chamberlin, who lives near. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 209 Tuesday evening last I received, unexpectedly, a note from Cousin Hattie, informing me that she had arrived in Boston with Uncle Daniel, to spend a few days. Mina came down on Wednesday, and we had quite a family visit. They all came out and called on us Thanksgiving forenoon. Yesterday morning Mina returned, and in the evening I went to the Morris Brothers with uncle and Hattie. They remain in Boston till the middle of next week. I have had calls lately from my classmates Geo. Chandler, Ferg. Haines and Dan. Sanborn ; also a very pleasant one from my old chum, H. C. Welch, He wished to be remembered to you, November 23, Monday morning. Having been unable to finish Saturday evening, I will endeavor to do so this morning. Yesterday morning I walked into Boston and went to church with Hattie at Dr. Kirk's ; in the afternoon with Uncle E. B. Chase at Father Taylor's. Thanksgiving week is now past and we have to go to work again to-day. We get no particular news from home. You doubtless hear more than we do. What a magnificent result is the completion of that Pacific Telegraph. It seems to me one of the greatest triumphs of this age. We had news of the arrival of the Sonora the next day after she arrived. I supposed at the time that she was the ship you sailed in. You must have some splendid ships on the western coast, if they are any like the "Constitution," buUt for the Pacific Mail Steam ship Co., and chartered by government for transporting Butler's Brigade to southern ports. She was in port here for three or four days, and took on some three thousand of Butler's men, besides an enormous quantity of stores. She was three hundred and fifty feet long and forty-five wide — a most beautiful ship. She was the largest ever —14 210 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL, in this harbor, and attracted great crowds to see her. I believe the government is paying three thousand dollars per day for her. Of war news I suppose you keep as well informed as if you were on this side of the continent. The battle at Ball's Bluff, Virginia, caused deep gloom in this vicinity, as the Fifteenth and Twentieth Massachu setts regiments, which' suffered most, went from right about here. The Twentieth contained many graduates of Harvard and citizens of Cambridge, Boston and the several towns about. California and the Northwest, and in fact the whole country suffered a great loss when Colonel Baker fell. The resignation of General Scott, which occured October 2d, was not unlocked for. He was get ting too infirm for his position, and it was wise in him to resign, and no doubt a good" thing for the country. He will always be held in grateful remembrance. There is much confidence reposed in McClellan. The tripartite expedition fitting out for Mexico is the occasion of much speculation by our newspapers. The success of our great naval expedition at Port Eoyal, South Carolina, has filled the whole North with confidence and hope and rejoicing. The news of the arrest of Mason and Slidell coming soon after, gave us another substantial cause for rejoicing. They are now safe in Fort Warren, Boston Harbor. The papers are vigorously discussing the legality of their arrest, and most of them seem to think it perfectly right. On the whole this section of the country feels much encouraged in reference to the war. We will trust in the Supreme Euler, knowing that He doeth all things well. Did you find the books we got for you satisfactory ? I hope you will cultivate your taste for reading, by work ing at the best books, and also let me hope that your Sunday reading wiU be of a serious character. Do not indulge in novel reading on that holy day. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 211 This will be quite a lecture-going week with us. We shaU probably hear Sumner to-night, Chapin to-morrow night, and Phillips Wednesday night. Wish you could go with us. Let me hear from you often. Tell me any incidents of your voyage and all about California. Do not be discouraged at not finding a situation. Always keep up good spirits. I hope you will get into some first- class, substantial, established house. With much love and anxiety for your welfare, I am Your affectionate brother. Carrie sends love, and says she will write in two or three weeks. G. Cambridge, December 10, 1861. Dear Aunt : It is past ten, and I ought not to write a word to-night, but if I begin, it will be one additional motive to hurry me on to finish a letter to you. I could not believe that so long a time would pass before I should answer your last kind letter accompanying grandma's, but I do think I was never so busy anywhere in my life as here. Your last but one remained a good while unanswered, and I resolved the next one should be attended to right away, but here it is six weeks, or about that, since it was writ ten. A hundred pardons for my delay. My intentions for the future remain good. I have heard with deep concern, through a letter from home lately, of grandma's ill-health. Do make her keep very quiet, and not overdo. I hope we may be blessed with her society here on earth for many years to come. It hardly seems as though we could let her go yet, although we know to what a far happier country than this she is going. I hardly expected a letter from her, but was 212 in harvard law school. delighted to receive one, and shall keep and try to prize it as it deserves. I often think of how she liked to have me (or anybody) read aloud to her, and how perhaps I might have increased her happiness last year by reading more to her. I am quite glad she is not in Vermont to suffer this long, cold winter. How terrible it must be in those sections where, to the inclemency of the winter, must be added the sadder winter of war. Poor Missouri ! how unfortunate she has been for the six months past. I should think you would begin to be discouraged. While this war is raging in many States, Massachusetts reposes in comparative quiet and prosperity. But still there is great sympathy here for those who are bearing the brunt. Our men are giving, and women are working, to relieve the noble sufferers on the Potomac and elsewhere. Carrie and I are getting on finely. Time passes very swiftly — we have so much to do and enjoy. For lectures, since I wrote last, we have heard Agassiz, James Russelj Lowell, George William Curtis, E. H. Chapin, Wendell Phillips, Kalph Waldo Emerson, Daniel S. Dickinson, and Everett a second time. We occasionally attend one of the places of amusement in Boston. Cousin Hattie Chase has been stopping here in Boston for two or three weeks ; we have enjoyed her society much, of course. She leaves for home to-morrow morn ing. Her sister Mina has been in Boston with a friend for a vacation, so we have seen a good deal of her. Mother talks of coming down to see us about Christmas time. She will stay two or three weeks. I had a letter from brother Edward a few days ago. He arrived safely in San Francisco the 26th of October, after a monotonous voyage, not even varied by a single squall. He had no situation when he wrote, but was in excel lent spirits. He had met several to whom he took letters m HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 213 of introduction. Heis in love with California, and thinks he shall make San Francisco his home for the present at least. Did you have a thanksgiving ? Ours came a week before theirs at home. Mother wrote that the Scales were at our house, and that they all had a good time. Do you not wish you were a Bostonian just now, so as to enjoy the privilege of having as neighbors Confederate Commissioners, men of high renown ? Mr. Mason who expected one day to be able to call the roll of his slaves beneath the shadow of Bunker Hill, now reposes in his grim majesty in our Fort Warren in the harbor, and he is only one of our many distinguished guests. I had the pleas- uie of shaking Captain Wilkes by the hand at his recep tion the other day at Faneuil Hall. How are matters getting on in St. Louis ? How did you relish Fremont's removal ? Everybody in this section is satisfied. You must remember to write all the little items of news in the neighborhood, especially all about the dear ones of your own family. How are uncle, George and Mary ? Give much love to them all and tell them how much I should like to drop in upon them of an evening. It seemed almost too bad that uncle should be as near as New York, and I not able to see him. But I hope to see you all again sometime. I should not wonder if I made for St. Louis again next year if peace and quiet return. I am much pleased with my boarding place, and am per fectly at home here. Hoping to hear from you very soon I remain Your affectionate and grateful nephew. 214 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. Cambridge, December 11, 1861. Dear Father : I am sitting in the law library in attendance on a Moot Court, and while one of the counsel is making his argu ment, I propose to write you a very short letter. Carrie had a letter ready to send yesterday, bat did not forward it, because I had no time to write the very few words I wished to put in with it. One thing I wish to write is, that I heartily unite my desire with Carrie's, that mother should take a little vacation and give us a visit. It is a short, safe journey down here, and would afford mother a time of pleasant recreation, benefit her health, enliven her spirits, and give us more pleasure than we can express. She asks whether it would not be better to come in April than now. April would not be so pleasant as a month or two later. Doubtless, the month of May or June are the pleasantest of the year here, as in most other places in this northern climate ; but I hope she will not defer her visit until spring. It will then be almost time for us to go home, and I am afraid Carrie may get home sick of she does not come until then. Carrie has a vacation, too, at Christmas, and will be better able to enjoy a visit than when she is at work in school. I really hope she wiU decide to come, and will drop in upon us about Christmas. I think she can board at Mrs. Cham berlin's without the slightest difficulty. Carrie will write about that. I was much gratified to find Edward in so good spirits as his letter to me indicated. I cannot agree with mother in fearing that the position he was expecting was far too high a beginning for him. He will be fi:ank with them, and teU them he is willing to work for low wages, on con dition that they will make due allowance for his want of experience. I think he has the theory of book-keeping IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 215 pretty well, and I have no fear, if he has got the situa tion, but that he wiU very soon be able to perform the duties with entire satisfaction. Indeed, I am strongly in hope that he has succeeded in getting the place, — that is, if the firm and their surroundings are good. Hoping to hear soon, I remain, as ever. Your affectionate and grateful son. Cambridge, January 18, 1862. Dear Mother : It is now more than a week since you left us. I am sitting here in my accustomed place, between the table and "what-not," where you have seen me so often. It is pleasant to think that you can imagine where I am. I have just finished up the heft of my day's, — my week's — work, and I give myself credit for having been pretty industrious during the past six days. I am alone and wish you were here to talk with me. Carrie has been below all the evening, — at cards, I presume. I should judge they were quite merry, from the laughing. You might have felt a little flattered if you could have seen the result of your departure on me the afternoon of the day you left. I was really lonesome. You had gone, the term closed at noon, and a long vacation was just opening upon me. Myloneliness would certainly have grown into homesick ness, except that luckily I had been invited to spend the evening at the room of a fellow student, where with jolly companions, crackers and ale, and cards, the hours until midnight were relieved of their tediousness, and then sleep, in whose refreshing cup all cares and sorrow may be drowned, kindly prevented a relapse into my afternoon despondency. * * * ^his week I have 216 IN harvard law school. been too busy for the blues. I have been into Boston only once, when I had the bad luck to lose a dollar bill, which must be set down to the account of "loss." Carrie and I went to hear John Lord lecture on "Great Eebellions, ' ' in the evening. The lecture last Tuesday eve ning, at the City Hall, by Agassiz, was a splendid one. It was on the history and relations of different classes of animals, and the impossibility of their- creation without the agency of an Intelligent Being. Have been skating twice during the week ; once with Carrie and once alone. * * * Tell father that on receipt of my St. Louis paper last week, which told me that exchange was faUing and likely to go down to par, I wrote to Mr. Edgell imme diately. By paper received to-day, I see it had faUen to one per cent, last Monday. I am of the opinion that I shall not go into an office in Boston, but think I shall prefer to study here, and go in there to courts when I please. How does Lilly like the kaleidoscope I sent her ? I see by your letter you gave her the stereoscope also. I think she must have enjoyed the latter minus the pictures. I got a photograph of General Lyon in town the other day for your album, which I enclose. The general outline of the picture is good, but it is poorly executed as a piece of art. His keen eye and restless enetgy cannot be seen to advantage in the picture. It is, however, as good a pic ture as I have seen of the brave and patriotic man. Give a great deal of love to all at home. Tell father his letters are as welcome as they are rare ; and Mary, that I do not intend hers shall remain long unanswered ; and Lilly, that I think she might favor me with a line IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 217 occasionally, as well as Carrie. I enclose Edward's last letter which I intended you to take. Good-night. All asleep at home, are you not ? Write soon. Your affectionate son. Cambridge, January 28, 1862. Dear Father : Enclosed is a letter from Edward, received yesterday. * * * The vacation is passing away comfortably, — not quite as glibly as term time, however. I go into Bos ton two or three times a week to court and the Legisla ture, — sometimes in the morning and stay all day, some times not until after dinner. My health is not what I could wish. Last week I really got disheartened and discouraged, and began to feel that perhaps I must be a miserable invalid for life ; but this week I am brighter. Called at a doctor's office Friday, and waited for him nearly an hour. Think I shall try him again soon. I do not think I have weighed so little for four or five years past as now. My hair is dropping out, and I cannot seem to detect in myself at present any of those indications which mark a strong and vigorous system. These causes, together with some others, are not without their effect on my spirits and nerves. My sleep has lately been dreamy and broken. Still, I hope for the best. Perhaps when I call on the doctor, he will find my case an easy one. Carrie and I go to hear John B. Gough, on Temper ance, to-night, at Tremont Temple. It is good sleighing here. I wish I could get at your horse and cutter occa sionally. Give much love to all, and write as often as you can. Ever your affectionate son. 218 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. Cambridge, February 14, 1862. My Dear Brother : I shall not blame you if you accuse me of not quite hav ing done my duty in regard to writing you. I was about to write when mother was here some weeks ago, but on her saying that a long letter had just gone from home, I thought I would wait a little, thinking you might prefer to have our letters somewhat distributed, to having them come "all in a heap." Then about three weeks ago I was again going to write, but found Carrie was getting a let ter ready, and again I concluded to wait. Now I have commenced and will try to have this sheet on its way to California in the course of a day or two. I received a good letter from you some two or three weeks since, for which I return thanks. I am yery much pleased to know you like California and are so well. If I thought I could gain flesh as you did, and be as well as you, it would be quite a temptation for me to go there. * * * Take the best care of your health, for I regard it the very first of earthly blessings. Was rejoiced to hear that you were so decidedly interested in the temperance cause. I do not wonder you were impressed with its importance after seeing such sights as you described. This is one of the many opportunities you will have of doing something for the good of humanity in that new and rather immoral country, and I doubt not that you will be always ready, both by example and precept, to do your utmost in so good a work. Our term in the law school closed Janu ary 10th for a vacation of seven weeks, which I have been spending here. I have attended courts in Boston consid erably, in order to get some familiarity with practice. To-day I heard a case argued by Caleb Gushing and B. E, Curtis (ex- Judge U. S. Supreme Court). The Massa chusetts Legislature is now in session, and I like occa- IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 219 sionally to go in there and sit an hour. Have been in with several lady friends. * * * Took to hear Fred. Douglas lecture the other evening. Last evening Carrie and I went to hear Horace Greeley at Tremont Temple. His lecture was on "The Nation," We walked home by moonlight after the lecture. A week ago Tues day evening we heard J. S. G. Abbott, at Cambridge City Hall. I am hearing more lectures this winter than I expect to hear again in the next six. We had a most excellent visit of three weeks from mother about Christmas time. You have probably heard all about it both from her and Carrie. I wish she could drop in on you as easily as she can on us. She thinks and talks of you a great deal. * * * y^Q have had good sleighing here for a month or more, but to-day it looks like a thaw, and the breaking up of winter. George got Daniel's team Tuesday evening and gave us a fine sleigh-ride. We went first to Lexington (of revolu tionary fame), where we stopped a few moments at the hotel, then to Waltham, and then home via Water- town. The ride was something over twenty miles in all. We traveled the same road over which the British retreated April 19, 1775, so gallantly pursued by the brave Lexington farmers, also saw the monument erected by the State in memory of the eight who fell in that engagement. It was a most pleasant and instruc tive ride. Skating has been very rare this winter. Carrie and I have been out but four or five times. Besides my law I am now reading Hume's History of England, together with a little poetry and fiction for variety and relaxation. I hope you keep alive your taste for reading. I cannot imagine how men can spend their time in frivolity and indo lence when there is so much real and sensible pleasure 220 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. always at hand in books. And the pleasures of reading grow sweeter the more you indulge in them. Then the substantial advantages of reading are almost incal culable. It helps one to converse intelligently, write with more fluency, and to appreciate better the great political movements of the age ; it trains the mind, sharpens the intellect, and tends to lift us above that low sphere in which the whirl of business and the pursuit of gain tends to confine us. * * * Be assured that you continually have my best wishes and prayers^for|your success and happiness. ? Your affectionate brother. Cambridge, February 21, 1862, (Friday evening.) Dear Uncle and Aunt : Your late letters were duly received, and not only afforded me great pleasure in the reading, but the greater gratification of an opportunity for doing you a favor, slight though it was. I have to-day purchased a $4.25 pair of skates, and left them at the place directed. Your mention of a duck hunt, uncle, made me heartUy wish myself with''you again. I have been studying so long now, that I really yearn for some such recreation. My health has been rather below par ever since I came to Cambridge. Then, aunt, how your mention of peaches, cherries and tomatoes made my lips smack, as in my imagination I sat in my accustomed seat at your table, viewing the tempting dishes.* I suppo'se grandma occu pies one end of the table alone now, does she not ? * * * What is the news in St. Louis, little or great — especially the little ? Write me everything you can think of. What news from our army ! Praised be God tor it all ! To-night we hear of the occupation of Glarksville ; rumored offer tN HARVARD' LAW SCHOOL, 22l to surrender NashviUe; defeat of Price* in Arkansas; strong Union feeling in Virginia, My heart runs over with gratitude and joyful hope. What times these are to live in ! Boston and vicinity have been wUd with joy for the past week. You can hardly stand anywhere but a flag is floating overhead. Cannon and bells speak the people's joy and gratitude. * * * Saturday morning, 22d, (before breakfast.) Cannon are booming and bells are ringing with joyous peals this almost consecrated day. I wish I could join with you this morning in praise and thanksgiving to God ; the God of nations and the author of our every blessing. Adieu. ^George. Cambridge, March 24, 1862. Dear Mother : Yours with Edward's enclosed was thankfully received this morning. * * * Our term commenced last Mon day week, and is now well under way, and bids fair to be prosperous, although we have not so large a number as usual. Thus far there are about seventy-five, I think. I have already been assigned to a Moot Court case as senior counsel for the plaintiff, with Col. J, H. W., forty-five years old, a Colonel in the Mexican war, formerly naval agent of Boston, and formerly also at the head of the Springfield armory, as senior counsel for the defendant. Of couse I shall be at some disadvantage contending with a man of so many years and so much experience. But I shall try to do the best I can. The case is not to be heard for four or five weeks. You ask me what I think about your coming to Cam bridge to live. I should rejoice, if you could make it seem best, to see you located in Cambridge, or some other 222 IN harvard IlAW SCHOOL. of the beautiful towns in this vicinity. I must confess, I have for some time had a lurking fear that you would never be quite happy, never perfectly contented with a home in the lonely West, unless perchance you should go to St. Louis, where you have friends, and which seems more like an Eastern city. It would certainly be with many doubts and many anxious fears that at your time of life I should see you leave New England, even for one of those splendid river towns in Iowa. But in a comfort able home near Boston, it seems to me you would be happy, and I certainly could wish nothing better, unless you will go to St. Louis, where my home is likely to be, if I ever have one. The sleighing here is finished and the snow is fast dis appearing, and everything betokens spring again. This has been an unusually long winter, they say, for Massa chusetts. There have been two months of good sleighing. Yet the thermometer has not indicated lower than six degrees above zero. I suppose you begin to feel the spring sun, too. I trust it will not escape your memory, (excuse me for mentioning it) that my Christmas present was deferred until the maple sugar season. You were misinformed about Carrie's gymnastics. The gymnasium where she takes her lesson is not over fifty rods from our room. I have no doubt that the young lady with whom she goes is a perfectly suitable com panion, though I have no acquaintance with her. I have taken medical advice lately, and have hope that Doctor Wyman wiU cure me up. Yesterday and to-day certainly I have felt better than for months before. I do not want you to mind writing me oftener than you hear from me this term, as this is my last, and I want to get as much law as possible, and in doing this, very likely I shall neg- IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 223 lect correspondents. * * * Give much love to father, Mary and LiUy, and may the rich blessings of Heaven remain with you all. Most affectionately your son. Cambridge, April 8, 1862. Dear Mother : The generous can of maple syrup reached us on Friday evening last. I am very much obliged for it. You can not imagine how good it tastes after being without it so long. Mr. P., of 1859, Dartmouth, now a law student in Boston, was over Saturday evening and we had a nice time boiling down some of the syrup and eating it in the various stages, hot in saucers, on snow, grained, and stirred dry sugar. We went through all the processes of manufacture. There was a snow storm Saturday eve ning which furnished snow very opportunely for our purposes. Saturday afternoon I took a bottle of it over to Miss A., of Eoxbury, a friend who has been very polite to us. Last Thursday evening I went to an opera for the first time in my life, and was, I confess, a good deal fascinated. I never heard any music to compare with it before. I went again last night and do not know but I may indulge once more. The seats are one dollar and a half, one dollar, fifty cents and twenty-five cents. I have taken a twenty-five cent seat each time, and I really think a quarter is well spent occasionally in hearing such delight ful music. It does me good from head to foot. My health is rather better than worse, though I can hardly mark any improvement. Have been under good medical advice for six weeks, and the doctor has con cluded that I am a hard case. His last prescription was 224 IN harvard law school. an orange every morning before breakfast. My food is very simple and I take a good deal of exercise, and I can not for my life conceive what keeps me under the weather so. I keep about aU the time and generally feel pretty vigorous. You need not give yourselves any trouble about me. Am as well here as I would be anywhere, and hope soon to be entirely restored. * * « Was at Mr. B.'s to tea a week ago. Took H. to Father * Kemp's Old Folks' Concert, and I do wish you could have been there too. It would have suited you. * * * Snow is nearly gone here. It is beautiful walking between here and Boston. Grass is beginning to look green. Give much love to my dear father and sisters, and do write oftener all of you. LUly's letter was very interesting. When is her birthday ? Ever your affectionate son. Cambridge, May 20, 1862. My Dear Uncle and Aunt : Your letters of the 23d ult. were duly received, and read with great interest, every "bit and slip" of them. I find myself ^Imost as much interested in hearing from you, and in St. Louis matters generally, as in letters from my own father's family. I still think I shall go to St. Louis next fall, and bide my time for success. I shall not entertain any high expectations of remunerative busi ness, but shall be quite content if through my Notary's commission, and odd jobs of copying, etc., I can make my bread and board for the first year. If Mr. Smith holds out the same encouragement as when I left, I think I can do this. If I do not go to St. Louis, whither shall I turn my steps ? In no other important place am I acquainted, and although affairs there are a little dark IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 225 now, yet I do not know any other place that at present offers much more encouragement. It is an impor tant step, but I think with uncle, that under the cir cumstances I should give St. Louis the preference. I feel that the next year of my life is to be a hard one. In fact, it is hard for alrhost any young man to get his start in business. He is subject to many pretty severe trials. He is without experience, unknown, poor, often times sneered at by men who know no sympathy with youth, and can seem to make no allowance for the errors of inexperience. But the difficulties must be met, and I am ready to go forward in the fear of God, and try to surmount them. Our term is now half done. It wUl close by the middle of July. The year has gone very quickly. I should like another six months here, but am very thankful for what I have had. * * * Affectionately, George E. C. Cambridge, June 4, 1862. Dear Sister Mary : Yours of the 18th ult. was thankfully received, and I take an early opportunity to answer, . It has seemed a httle lonely since father's departure day before yesterday, just as it did last winter after mother left us. I cannot tell which of their visits was most pleasant, so much did I enjoy them both. One great inducement for me to get a home, would be to have the privilege of entertaining my relatives and friends. I seldom faU to enjoy the visit of a friend, though I often do faU, through a perverse dis position, to make it pleasant for them. I presume father has told you all about the incidents of his visit, so it wiU be needless for me to repeat them. —15 226 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 1 I wish you could have been with us codfishing, but I suppose that would not have possessed so many attrac tions for you as all the shopping which had to be done. Tell mother the maple cakes were dehcious ; I never tasted any better. Perhaps this was partly owing to the fact that they were made by her hands. I am afraid the new contents of the tin can will not prove so palata ble to you and her as its former were to Carrie and I, though doubtless more in-spirit-ing. * * * How do you like your books? Winthrop, you wUl recollect, was kiUed in the battle of Big Bethel. I have not had time to read either of the books, but they are highly commended by all who do read them. The books were both published within a year after his death. Has father told you about my war fever? What does mother think of it ? I should have written her about it before if I had had time. I sijppose she would hate to have me go, but stUl I should not anticipate any very decided objections from her. I wonder I did not go long ago. There is every reason for my going, and no sound ones why I should not. I have been thinking all the spring that if opportunity offered, I should try for a com mission. It is a, hard time to commence in business, and probably I should not be able to support myself at law for some time to come. My health, now not very good, a campaign would probably confirm. No friends are dependent on me. Our suffering country calls for defenders. Why should not I be one of them ? * * * Your affectionate brother. IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. 227 Cambridge, June 4, 1862. Dear Father : I hope before this reaches you my recommendations will be on their way. If they do not come promptly, I shall push for Brattleboro. I wish you would get Mr. Dana or some other good man to write a private letter to the Governor. * * * Your affectionate son. Cambridge, June 6, 1862. Dear Father : I was sorry to receive so little encouragement by yours received this morning. I hope you will hurry up the matter, and let me know immediately what has been done.. I ought not to be considered as absolutely a green hand in mUitary matters. Am learning the tactics very fast, and could now drUl a squad in the manual of arms and the simple marchings quite well. I received a letter from the Executive Department yesterday, saying that my application had been received and would be duly con sidered. The recommendations are what is now needed. Affectionately yours. Cambridge, June 6, 1862, Dear Mother : Yours of the 3d inst. was received yesterday morning. To read a letter prompted by so much love was enough to bring tears to my eyes, if I were one who approved of tears, or could easily weep. To feel that there are even two or three in the world whose love we possess, is indeed a great blessing. My inclination for war is of some months standing. I have wondered time and again why I did not enlist long 228 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. ago. There seems to be every reason why I should go, — the sacred call of country, a physical constitution which would be strengthened by hardship, no friends dependant upon me, no flattering prospects of success in civil life, the glory of the brave before me. There is a chance of death, to be sure, but is there not also at home ? And I often think now-a-days that death is not the worst fate that can overtake a man. The vanity, selfishness and meanness of the world, the perplexities and troubles of life often weary me, and turn my thoughts to a better state. And then, death for one's country is so much more preferable to a thousand others to which we are. liable every day. Think from what circles of friends thou sands, far better than 1, have torn themselves to go and fight in this struggle. I should have but few, very few, to mourn my loss if I should fall. The only objection to my going is a mother's love which overcomes her patriot ism. Much as I love my mother, I doubt the virtue of yielding to such an objection when duty speaks so loud. Perhaps if I had seen such a letter ten days ago, as yours of the 3d inst., I might have delayed, but now my appli cation has been made, and if accepted, I should of course go. In my determination to try to get a place in the regiment, I want to tell you that I have been uninfiuenced by old or young. It has been entirely of my own motion. The few whom I have consulted, have rather discour aged me. Of course I shall not think of giving to Mr. the message from you. We met him on a corner in Boston, I said nothing to him of my inclinations, but father asked him what he thought of the matter. He answered that he did not feel like advising others, but that if he was young, he should be pretty sure to go. He was very polite to me, inviting me to go to Andover and spend the IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL, 229 Sabbath at his house. Further than this I know nothing about the man. That he treated me with great courtesy, is enough to make me treat him so, till some good reason shall change my mind. My letter of application was sent to the governor some days before seeing Mr. , and was, as I have said, the result of my own unaided convictions. Indeed, as far back as the 23d of May, I wrote a letter to a gentleman for recommendation and instruction as to the steps necessary to be taken to get a commission, but did not send it, preferring to wait a few days for further developments. Father writes me (by letter received this morning) that my application is not very likely to meet with success. If it does not, you, I suppose, will be thankful ; if it does, I shall be ready to go. Ever your affectionate son. Cambridge, June 30, 1862. My Dear Sister : I am in some haste to thank you for the elegant album you so silently left for me. It was just what I wanted, but of course, entirely unexpected. It was all the more acceptable on that account. I sat below stairs reading Harper an hour after breakfast this morning, during which time not a word was said to me, though Louisa was doubtless anxious to have me make a certain dis covery in my room. When I went up, the first thing that caught my eye was the square box, and Miss 's envelope on the top of^it. I did not mistrust at all what was in the box, but presumed both packages were from Ijgj.. * * * No gift could have been more acceptable to me, and I thank you most heartily for it and for the love which prompted it. Your method of getting that 230 IN HARVARD LAW SCHOOL. picture of yourself for me, which I did not understand the other day, I now comprehend. It seems odd and lonely without you. * * * My trunk, valise and hat- box will probably be in St. Johnsbury Saturday evening, and I shall arrive as I told you, probably Tuesday night. Hope to get a letter from you to-morrow. We have news from Eichmond to-day which puts everybody in a fever of expectation and excitement, hoping for the best, but fearing all is not weU. * ? * Won't LiUy come to the depot and escort me home ? Your affectionate brother. Chapter YIII.- IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. (1862-1863.) "I tell you, rather, that whoever may Discern true ends here, shall grow pure enough To love them, brave enough to strive for them. And strong enough to reach them, though the roads be rough." Mrs. Browning- Oosn Ghiidi Windows. Letters troin September 11, 1862, to September 24, 1863, Inclusive— Raises a Company in St. Johnsbury, and is elected Captain, August 12— Pro moted to Major, August 26— Regiment ordered to Port Lincoln, in the Defences of Washington— Illness in November— Most kindly oared for at the Residence ot Hon. John C. Rives— A Visit of Two Months from Mother— The Regiment converted into Heavy Artillery— Re- mo ves to Fort Totten— Service in Military Courts in Washington— His Marriage Engagement, and Arrangements for its Consummation. Fort Lincoln, D. C, Two MILES FROM WASHINGTON, THURSDAY,^3September 11, 1862. Dear Father, Mother and Sisters : So far, all is well. We left Brattleboro Sunday fore noon — arrived in New Haven in the evening — took a steamer, and landed at Jersey City on Monday morning, and there took cars and went to Philadelphia, where all hands got dinner at the famous Soldiers' Belief. We left in the evening, and arrived in Baltimore early Tuesday morning. After considerable delay there, we started again, and arrived in Washington, Tuesday p. m. Tues day night our men slept in barracks. I, with a few others. 232 IN the defences op Washington. staid at the National Hotel. Wednesday morning we were ordered to encamp on Capitol Hill. We moved there, and received a counter order, to the effect that we proceed to Fort Lincoln. A roundabout three mile march brought us here at nine o'clock last evening. Our boys were terribly tired. Many had fallen out by the way, unable to walk. Owing to the delay of our baggage train, we were able to pitch but very few tents, and most of the regiment slept in the open air. It was a warm night and nobody suffered. To-day we have pitched our tents and have a very pretty encampment on the side of a low hill. My work has been very severe ever since we left Vermont. Last night the Lieutenant-Colonel tried to rouse me fifteen minutes after I turned in, but I was not wakened. I don't think I was ever known to sleep so before. . This fort is one of the northern defences of Washing ton, and if Stonewall Jackson concludes to attack Wash ington from this side (and he is now up in Maryland, some twenty miles to our northwest), we have got to help stop him. The forces here are now engaged in digging rifle-pits along our whole line of defence — about seven or eight miles. Our boys will probably go to work at it this afternoon. It will take a week to finish them. If McClel lan whips Jackson, I suppose we are not now in a place where we shall see active service. There is no certainty how long we stay here — may move in a week — may stay a month. I am a little lonely when I get a minute to stop and think where I am, and how uncertain is the future, but hard work generally keeps me in good spirits. I would give almost anything to see you all, but I may be denied that blessed privilege for a long time to come. What horse was bought for me ? I suppose he was sent to Brattleboro. The Adjutant's servant was to bring him IN THE defences OF WASHINGTON. 233 to Washington. It wUl hardly be worth while to send me a servant from Vermont now. I had better get one here. Please write immediately. I will apprise you if we move. Eemember me to aU my friends inquiring. * * Good bye aU. God be with you. Ever your affectionate son. Fort Lincoln, September 12, 1862. Dear Father : I was made glad to-night by the receipt of four letters, among which was yours. It seems good to look upon something that has so lately come from home. I have been away but a short time myself, but it is a peculiar absence, and one that causes me to appreciate the value of my dear home. I was glad to know my horse has been sent, and not sorry to hear you had bought the blacker of the two. I think it will be the best horse in the regiment. I hope he will come through safe. I have lost my new overcoat and small carpet-bag containing all my little conveni ences, since arriving in Washington. I feel a little badly about it, but suppose it can't be helped. * * * I have been to Washington to-day, on the Colonel's horse. After living two days on hard crackers and very salt beef, a good dinner in town was relished. The Capitol and White House are fine, but I have seen nothing else of much account. The hotels, the architecture of buildings in general, the stores, etc., don't come up to Boston, or even St. Louis. Our regiment has been digging rifle-pits to-day off on our front, and has accomplished a good deal of work. They are in fine spirits to-night. This is said to be the weakest point in the defences of Washing ton, but we expect McClellan will whip the enemy before lie gets here. * * * I want to hear from you, from 234 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. mother, Mary, Carrie, LiUy, all, and that often. TeU me all the news. If there is none, a few words that you are all well, will do me a great deal of good, and it will cost you but little. I sleep on the ground again to-night.. To-morrow I expect to have a cot. Good night. Your affectionate son. Fort Lincoln, September 14, 1862. My Very Dear Brother : I feel condemned and even sad when I think how long it is since I have written you, but since my return home from Cambridge, early in July, my time has been very closely occupied. My mind was then made up to enter the army, and all my time has since been devoted to military affairs. As soon as I got home from Cambridge, I commenced drilling E. F.'s company. During the latter part of July I got recruiting papers for raising a company in our county, which I did very quickly, and went into camp at Brattleboro with it on the 16th of August. I was elected captain on the 12th. On the 26th I was promoted to be major of the regiment, an event quite unexpected by myself. We left Brattleboro August Tth, one week ago to-day, and coming by New Haven, Jersey City, Philadelphia and Baltimore, we reached Washington last Tuesday evening. The next day we were ordered to Fort Lincoln, about three and one-half mUes north of Washington, where we are now encamped very pleasantly. Our regiment has been working on breastworks for two days. The brigade to which we are attached is throwing up a line of them some seven or eight miles long. * There is probably fighting going on off to our northwest to-day, as we have heard cannonading in that direction, more or less through the day. The colonel of our regiment is J. M. Warner, of Middlebury, who graduated at West IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 235 Point, in 1860. He has been serving two years in the regular army. Our lieutenant-colonel is E. C. Benton, of Hyde Park. He has been captain in the Vermont Fifth, nearly a year, and was wounded in the battle of Savage's Station. He and I have united our tents and are now living together, which I find quite pleasant. I hate to advise any young man to stay away from this war, but I hope you wiU find it consistent with duty to stay at home, on mother's and father's account. Mother felt it very much to have me go, but I hope to return to her. If I should not, you must fill both our places. Many of your acquaintances in Vermont have enlisted, ' and I reckon you would have had hard work to keep out of the war had you been at home. * * * j have a very fine black horse on the way from Vermont. Father paid $200 for him. My saddle cost $50. Please write me immediately. Direct to father and let him forward, as I may be far from here in two months hence. God preserve us both to meet again on earth if it is His will. If not, may we find each other in His upper kingdom. Your affectionate brother. Fort Lincoln, September 15, 1862. Dear Mother : I suppose you wUl consider almost anything in the shape of a line from your soldier son worth the stamp that carries it. We are encamped at the same place as at the last writing, and our boys are engaged at the breast works, or rifle-pits, more properly. It is simply a trench of five feet wide and four feet eight inches from the bot tom of the trench to the top of the embankment. The trench will be seven or eight mUes in length when finished, running along the whole front of country, under charge of 236 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. our brigade commander. Colonel A. Gibson, of Penn sylvania, is in command of this brigade at present. Saturday I was in charge of the trenching work. Yester day our men were sent into the trenches in the morning, but were soon recalled by Colonel Gibson, and permitted to enjoy a more quiet Sabbath. * * * * There is not so much apprehension at this point since the news of the enemy falling back from Frederick. Yesterday we heard heavy firing through the day in the direction of Harper's Ferry. Undoubtedly there was a battle. Our Colonels judged it was about twenty miles distant. We hope it was a Federal success. There is a heavy firing to-day within a few miles, but it is probably artiUery practice. It is too regular for a battle — and too near us also. My duties for the present aire not so severe as they have been. I have charge of the company driUs at half- past five o'clock in the morning, extending to half-past six, and drill our sergeants about four hours per day. The field officers relieve each other in superintending the trenching. We are encamped on rising ground in a very healthy position. The air is fresh, and nothing danger ous is apprehended from this climate. We came in just the right time, and are getting regulated finely. We do our cooking on the ground, and have good fare — fresh and salt beef, salt pork, good coffee twice a day, rice, etc The Colonel, Lieutenant-Colonel, Adjutant and myself, mess together and fare sumptuously. To-day we have a roast pig for dinner. The Lieutenant-Colonel and myself have joined our tents and are living together. This makes us a large double tent. One-half we use for dining-room for the mess, the other for parlor and sleeping-room. Saturday evening the colonel's horse threw me, giving me a pretty severe shock and making me a little lame, but not preventing me from riding to IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 23'? Washington and back immediately after. The sadolle was loose and as it turned on the horse I threw my right foot against his side to right myself, and unfortunately got my spur against him. It is a harsh thing and I don't blame the pony for throwing me with its prongs rowelling into his side. * * * j ^rote Edward yesterday. Have you heard from him? The St. Johnsbury boys are all well and in good spirits. A heap of love to aU the family. Your affectionate son. Headquarters First Brigade, Defences North of the Potomac, Fort Lincoln, D. C, September 26, 1862. Dear Sister Carrie : Since last writing there has not been much of anything new. I have wondered several times why you have not written me at all. I expected to hear from you as soon as from anyone at home, but not a word yet. Father, who has never before written me much, has, since I came here, favored me with several very acceptable letters. Mother has written once or twice, but my sisters, who should write me every day, are silent. If you knew the value of letters to a soldier, you would not deny me. I have had an uncertain intimation that you are in school, at St. Johnsbury. Please let me know about it — your studies, your school-mates, etc. My horse came the other day, all safe. He is a beautiful animal, by far the finest in the regiment. I rode him to Washington day before yesterday, and to-day had him out on battalion drill. He jumps and thrashes some at different move ments in the manual of arms, and the maneuvers of the battalion, but any young horse would do it. I got him 2S8 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. to-day so I could pat his head with my sword. * * * Day before yesterday I went into Washington and visited the Capitol. It is filled with wounded soldiers from one end to the other, the rotunda, senate chamber, repre sentatives hali, galleries and all. It was a sad tour. What a contrast between present and past scenes. in that magnificent structure. The room where Webster, Clay and a score of others achieved their triumphs, is now occupied by the unfortunate victims of a struggle which they tried in vain to avert. It shows magnanimity, how ever, in the authorities to give up the Capitol to the poor fellows. * * * We have received orders this evening to move to-morrow. Our regiment is to be distribu ted through the several forts in this region. We are sorry to leave our present delightful encampment, but we must obey the powers that be. It is rather hard to have our regiment broken up and scattered. We had just finished our Spade work, and to-day had begun driU in earnest. * * * The new station which I shall take will probably not be over two or three miles from here. Will write again soon. Am not troubled with my cough just now, and my health is very good. All write — LiUy included, of course. A kiss for her. Your affectionate brother, George, . Fort Lincoln, D, C, October 3, 1862. Dear Mother : Imagine my feelings last night on retiring amid the luxury of a pair of white sheets. It was a great event. Since leaving home I have been sleeping on and under the coarse army blankets, but yesterday in Washington, I determined to commence a more civUized life, and my first purchase was five and one-half yards of nice bleached IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 23^ cotton, one and one-fourth yards wide, at thirty-one cents. On arriving at camp I cut it into halves, and adorned my bed as aforesaid. Our comforts are very differently prized under changed circumstances. My unpainted cot with its new white sheets, is a greater luxury here, than the king's best would be in civU life. My next purchase was a remnant of about five yards of carpeting — green, red and black. Drown, my attendant, has hemmed the sheets and sewed the carpet. As soon as I get a board floor, which will be in a day or two, the carpet will be put down. * * * Am detailed for the present on a general court-martial, convened yesterday at Fort Lincoln. Colonel Warner is president, Lieutenant-Colonel Benton is also a member. It is time for to-day's session to begin, and I must put on my trappings and go. Afternoon. Court-martials are tedious beyond measure. We go up at nine, and sit till three on our camp-stools, around a table made of boards laid on two flour barrels, hearing, for the most part, the testimony of Dutch witnesses, questioned by a lieutenant who knows no law. We are now trying a Pennsylvania Dutch Captain for embezzle ment of public property, and conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman. At three I come home "as hun gry as a bear," and to-day, just now, I have eaten roast pig enough to kill me under usual circumstances. Instead of being sent to Fort Saratoga, as I expected to be at last writing, the Colonel chose to retain me at headquarters. The regiment has been distributed through the forts. There is a probability of our wintering here, as a part of the garrison of these defences. We have already commenced on artillery drill, and the talk now is 240 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. that at \he end of a month, our regiment will occupy four of the above forts exclusively, and the One Hundred and Twelfth Pennsylvania, with whom we are now associated in the whole line, will occupy the other four. This wiU be done as soon as we are instructed sufficiently in artillery to be able to manage the guns alone. Our brigade com mander has suggested to the department that we be transformed into an artillery regiment, and I think it quite probable it may be done, but it is all uncertain. Before this reaches you we may be ordered across the Potomac, though I think not. The change I spoke of would be quite a compliment to the regiment, as the artUlery is a higher corps than infantry. The regiment is doing finely. Its inspections are very creditable of late. Company A is here at headquarters. .Yesterday they procured white gloves, every man. This will add greatly to their appear ance at inspections. They come out now with blackened boots and guns beautifully polished. I wish you might see them. They are model soldiers. Our camp looks diminutive in comparison with what if was before the reg iment was broken up, but it is extremely pleasant. We have a charming location. The grounds are neatly laid out, and are thoroughly policed every morning, so that the camp has constantly a tidy appearance. I will make a sketch of it and enclose for you. I have two large tents all to myself now, giving me an abund ance of room. If I had a wife that I liked pretty weU, I would certainly have her here. I should not ask you to come and live in camp, because it would be too hard for you, but for a young woman of the present day, it would be the best thing that could happen as far as health is concerned. I often think that I must have one of my sisters come down, but still there are some objections to such an arrangement, I should like a visit from some IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, 241 of you best of aU things. Perhaps if I am in the vicinity after the session of Congress begins, you will give me a call, Carrie's most exceUeJnt letter was received this after noon, and did me a heap of good. If I could have such a one every day it would do something towards satisfy ing me. Please send me letters from Ed. Where is that letter from Aunt Louise to me ? I have stood for a photograph in full attire, and I wUl send you one of the sober, raw-boned results, if I ever get them. I do not seem to be gaining any flesh yet, but my health is pretty good. My duties are not nearly so hard as when recruit ing, or as at Brattleboro, though the court just now is very wearisome. Eeveille is not sounded tiU sunrise, which is now a little past six, so I do not have to rise very early. October 5th. The sacred Sabbath — and it has been much the quietest Sabbath I have seen since leaving St. Johnsbury. It is a beautiful day, sunny but cool, with a delightful breeze — one of those days when every breath of air seems a draught of nectar. There was a rain last night and strong wind, which has given such a purity and clearness of atmosphere as I have scarcely ever seen. This morning I made the tour of the forts, seven miles, and how I wished you could enjoy the ride with me. It was delight ful galloping along from fort to fort. My horse took new grace and vigor from the morning, and he several times neighed his appreciation of it heartily. I generally make these trips with Colonel Warner, but this morning was alone. How I wished one of my sisters could be on a horse by my side. Our regiment is behaving splendidly, and is highly complimented by aU who see it. Secretary —16 242 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. Seward was here at dress parade one evening vrith an English military officer, and they could hardly beUeve it was a new regiment. They were astonished at its ap pearance. The discipline is excellent. Colonel Warner is highly thought of through the regiment. He will reprove an officer as quick as a private, for neglect of duty, but they like him none the less for that. We have been made sad by three deaths since arriving here. * * Am going to have a sing from the/ 'Songs of Zion"this evening. Good-night. Write soon and often. Love to father, Mary, Carrie and Lillie. Affectionately your son. to carrie. Fort Lincoln, D. C, Sabbath, October 12, 1862. My Very Dear Sister : There ! When I commenced this I owed you one let ter ; now I owe you two. Just as I had written the date above, many anxious inquiries about the chaplain's tent apprised me that the mail had come. I was quick to go there, and my joy was aU the greater at seeing a letter from you, because it was so unexpected. Magna nimity which prompts the writing two letters without an answer is rare in my epistolary experience. My debt be fore was heavier than I could pay, and now I am sorely exercised as to how I shall balance the account. I hope you will be a lenient creditor. If you could have seen, Carrie, how glad my heart has been made by each of your letters, you would have felt repaid. I thank you for them. How I wish I might see you ; but as long as I cannot, I want your letters. ****** IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 243 To-day is gloomy. I wonder if it is so in Vermont, at our good home, where you now are. Here, it is drizzling a little, and is almost cold enough to snow. UntU yes terday, the weather has been delightful. A tent, with the bare earth for its floor, although quite pleasant in the warm months, is not the best winter home in the world. Thursday evening last, between eight and nine o'clock, we heard a troop train pass along the railroad, just in front of our camp, which we soon learned brought the Twelfth Vermont. Next morning, at reveille, I was in my saddle, galloping towards Washington, with the Ad jutant, bound not to lose the opportunity of seeing them. I saw my old friends * * * at the barracks, and found at the National Hotel * * * and Seargeant-Major Eedington. Took breakfast with them, and was with Eedington a good part of the day. He had a bad cold, and was looking miserably. Colonel Blunt had given him leave to stay in town two or three days. They are encamped on East Capitol Hill, about three-quarters of a mUe behind the capitol, and only about two and one-half miles from us. This is very pleasant. I have received a half dozen of those curiosities re ferred to in my last, in the shape of photographs of my lengthy self, standing up and in fuU uniform. Are you not proud of them ? I got them for your especial benefit. My beard had just received permission to grow, you will notice. As soon as it shall have arrived at a creditable degree of luxuriance, I will try my luck again, * * ' "Sour affectionate brother. 244 in the defences of washington. Fort Lincoln, Monday, November 3, 1862. Dear Mother : How cheering it would be to see you here at this mo ment ; and although I could not offer you a carpet of grass on the ground which constitutes my floor, yet me thinks it would not be very unpleasant to you to be sitting here with me now, I have often said that in war my chief dread would be sickness in camp or hospital, with out a kind friend to attend me, I cannot say that I have been really sick, but no more can I say that I have been well, for a few days past. I first felt unweU on Wednes day last, in' Washington, on a court-martial. Thursday was about the same. Friday I did a hard day's work in helping to muster the regiment. I left the fort early, and did not return until eight o'clock in the evening, and rode, probably, twenty miles, besides performing the labor of inspecting at the different forts. This was while I should have been quiet in my tent. Since that I have been on my bed most of the time, having no appetite, and feehng a general lassitude, but I think I shall be all right again in three or four days. There is a good deal of sickness in the regiment — one hundred and thirty- six on the list to-day, I am told. This morning there was a death — a very inteUigent sergeant. He had typhoid fever, and has had a sister with him for three weeks. She came from Vermont, and found him better than when the letter was written which brought her, and has been watching his slow recovery, until a few days since he was taken with a relapse, and now he has passed away. It is a sad case, and how sad the sister's return to her home. Carrie's letter was received Saturday ; the one from Wyandotte to-day. You need not hasten about sending IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 245 the bundle, I may think of other things that wiU be needed this winter. Would like a pair of knit woolen gloves, and a pair of ditto mittens. We expect to hear of fighting every day, and I believe we are going to get a victory. I saw the Fifth Vermont Eegiment of nine-months men all together on Capitol Hill, last Tuesday evening at sunset, and it was a jolly visit I had with them. None of us had a thought of their moving for some time, but the next morning at eight o'clock not a vestige of them remained. ***** Your affectionate son. This letter was followed, oh November 7th, by a tele gram announcing illness, and requesting "mother or sis ter" to come to Washington. Father and mother went to him immediately, and found him very ill at the resi dence of Honorable John C. Eives, who, having learned of the young officer's condition, took him to his own home, and for a month every attention that a son of the house could have received, was bestowed upon him. Mr. Eives had been long unaccustomed to going up stairs, but not a day passed that his interest and anxiety for George did not lead him to visit his room. His kindness and that of his family will never be forgotten. The residence of Mr. Eives was in the possession of the enemy on the 12th of July foUowing, when Early threat ened Washington. 246 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. TO MARY. Fort Totten, D. C, December 20, 1862, Dear Sister: Long ago I remember to have received a welcome letter from you. Sickness foUowed, and to sickness has suc ceeded one of those periods of business and work when one is so engrossed that social duties are entirely neg lected, and even the commonest duties of one's toilet are almost forgotten. But I begin to see clear again, and live in hope that I shaU be relieved from the pressure in a few days. In addition to taking the control of a large fort, and superintending the erection of barracks for our garrison, I have been called on to look after a work ing party of two hundred men at another fort, the mounting of a very large gun at our own fort, (requiring the labor of about thirty men for. four weeks), and since December 11th, to attend a court martial at Fort Lincoln (four miles away) every day. The court martial wiU probably adjourn Monday, and then I am detailed to sit as president of a court of inquiry at Fort Bunker Hill — a mile awav — but this will be but a brief affair, and then I hope to be somewhat more at leisure. Mother and I are sitting to-night (Saturday) in that room of my mansion used for kitchen, dining-room, sit ting room and parlor. Our walls are hewed logs, standing upright, with mortar in the crevices ; our ceUing is the inside of a rough board roof ; the rafters are smaU logs, with the bark on. It seems funny to think of mother living in such a place, so rough and unlike her home, but it is very comfortable here, and I think, cozy. I have a very nice little cook stove, on which a part of a ham is now boiling as vigorously as fire can make it. The room is perfectly warm and comfortable, and a kerosene lamp and a sperm candle give us a cheerful light. Our living, IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 247 thus far, has been satisfactory. We have now on hand flour, Indian meal, sweet and Irish potatoes, apples, mutton, ham, codfish, tea, coffee, sugar, milk, etc., etc. I am enjoying myself grandly at any rate, and mother is, to all appearances, quite contented and happy. She is busy hemming napkins to-night. I wish I had my napkin ring here ; it would correspond so weU. Tell father Fort Totten does not look much as when he was here. There are no tents ; two large and substantial buUdings have gone up for the two companies, and five huts are nearly completed for the officers. We are splen didly settled for the winter, and I must say I should regret being ordered away before we get any good from all our- labor. * *. * Perhaps you already know that our regiment has been converted into Heavy Artillery. It is a popular move with all of us, as artiUery is a higher corps than infantry, and there is so much infantry that a regiment has no identity, but being the only Vermont artiUery regiment, we may be better remembered. And then our men all like the service of the guns, and, I trust, will do the old Green Mountain State honor when the day of trial comes. Governor Holbrook and staff are expected to visit us to-morrow. * * * As ever. Your affectionate brother. Fort Totten, D. C, January 4, 1863. Dear Father : This wUl inform you that mother and I are stUl well. There is an Episcopal meeting house only about five hundred yards from the fort, where we have attended ser vices to-day. * * * Fort Totten has really got to be a fine location. There is nothing so good in our brigade. Colonel Warner acknowledges it to be the finest location and the best kept post of the three which we occupy. 248 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. Our buUdings are all up now, and we have cleared a large parade ground in front which is kept constantly swept and looks very handsome. My hut is whitewashed, also the fronts of the barracks. These will be completely whitewashed before long. Our settlement is on the summit of the hill. The wind can hardly be heard through our solid stockades. Can you not afford another trip down here ? I want to see you, and to have you see our quarters, prodigiously. And too, it would be very pleasant for mother to have your company home. She has not been in to Washington at all yet. The day after she came to Fort Totten, I was ordered on a court martial and am not through with the business yet, but I expect to finish to-morrow, and shall try to go to the city with her Wednesday. The holidays have passed quietly here. On Christmas day the boys had an oyster dinner furnished by the offi cers, and some apples. New Years they worked half the day, and had a half holiday. Our regiment is still on fatigue, building forts and digging rifle pits. We expect to finish soon and go to drilling. We shaU hail that day. I shall be very sorry to have mother leave, but suppose she will not remain much longer than the neces sary time for visiting the city to her satisfaction. We have a new flag for the fort, and she has been making two smaller ones for the barracks out of the old one. F. has been helping her. I have had him do most of the little things I wanted done about my house, such as put ting up shelves, etc. We continue to live weU. Had oysters to-day, and have on hand more oysters and a very nice chicken. If you will come down, I will guar antee good living and lodging. I wish aU of you could come ; what a glorious thing it would be. IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. 249 Company A is doing finely. The privates yesterday presented Captain Morrill with a hat and trimmings costing thirteen dollars. There are none sick in hospital. Twelve are in quarters to-day, with colds, rheumatism, etc. One of their number is under arrest for a pretty serious offense. In visiting the guard a little after midnight, the second, I found him, perhaps not sleeping on his post, but nodding, and so drowsy that he was- perfectly useless as a sentinel. I could easily have taken away his mus ket. He was so far gone as not to know of my approach. I stood within a foot of him for five minutes, and finally had to punch him to arouse . him. He was a frightened boy, if I ever saw one. He has borne an excellent char acter in the company, and I hardly have the heart to prefer charges against him, though strictly, I suppose I ought to. I shall keep him in arrest, at anyrate, till I can decide what to do. I have lately got a colored servant, who suits me almost perfectly. His name is William, and he is from Hampton, Virginia, is twenty-five years old, smaU, quiet, faithful ; says he has a wife and some children. Mother likes him, and is teaching him to read. Our officers are looking and feeling quite gay with their red artillery straps and other trimmings. AU are pleased with the change. What are the particulars of Edward's business ? You were very indefinite in your letter. * » * Affectionately your son. The following characteristic letter, written by our dear mother, and supplemented by a postscript from George, chanced to be included among those sent me by Edward, and I thought it too interesting to be omitted. 250 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. MOTHER TO EDWARD. Fort Totten, January 19, 1863. My Dear Edward : Your good letter of November 30 was not received untU last week. We were very happy to hear again from you, but I felt a little sorry you had changed your business. I hope you are not going to be in a great hurry to be rich. If you can see you are saving a little every month, you ought not to think your business had better be changed. You tell us so little about your matters, perhaps we cannot be suitable judges of them, and leave them all to your own discretion, hoping you may succeed in business ; but still more, that you may cling very close to that strict integrity of character and patient industry which always characterized your home life. How I wish I could be with you a little while, now I am about to leave George, but that I must not think of.' You are for a while shut away from us in person, but not from our thoughts. Your happiness and success are what we all most warmly desire. I am very glad you have found a good boarding-place. I know it is hard not to have more society, but it is better not to have it, than to have any but good — remembering, my dear son, you cannot be too careful in selecting your associates. If you live to be fifty years old, you will not wonder that I give you this caution. When I think of the many vicious and artful persons whose business and pleasure it is to lead young men astray, I can only pray God to strengthen all they may beset, especially my own precious children, who are now just starting this life-journey. George has built a comfortable log hut with two rooms, in which we have lived for almost two months, but I believe I am a little homesick at last. I have decided to go home next week, and the days now seem pretty long. IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, 251 I have been to the city several times, and have seen its public buildings and other sights to my satisfaction, and now I think of nothing, or care for nothing, but to get home once more. It seems as though I shall have no desire to leave it again. * * * I have enjoyed this stay with George much, and often think it will be a precious little period in my monotonous life, if he should not live to see the end of this awful war. I suppose you would like to know what kind of an officer he is. You will make all due allowance for a mother's opinion. When I first came I really thought him unduly strict and severe, but the longer I stay the more I see the necessity of discipline. Every order must be obeyed, is his rule, and the reputation of his men and Post speak loudly that the rule is good. He has been engaged more than half the winter in courts-martial. Last night he had an order from General Heintzelman, at Washing ton, to sit with two colonels there on the conduct and efficiency of officers in and around the fortifications of Washington. This, considering his age and experience, is complimentary. I am often surprised at the fearlessness with which he executes his orders. I was going to relate some instances, but I do not know as it is best. The short of it is, he makes it his law to obey every command of his superiors, and insists that others must also do this or receive the penalties. * » * Good-bye, my dear son, and may God ever bless you, is the constant prayer of your loving mother, M, A. C, 252 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, Fort Totten, January 25, 1863, Dear Aunt Louise : When I last wrote, I believe I was at Lincoln, Was taken sick November 1st, and was kindly taken in by the family of John C, Eives, who live near our camp. The day after going there father and mother came. Father staid only a few days, but mother took care of me through a month's sickness, and after that came into camp and has been with me ever since. On my recovery, I was ordered to the command of this fort, and given to under stand that I should probably stay here through the winter, I immediately threw up a stockade hut, twelve feet by twenty, and made it tight and warm, and here mother and I have been living these last six or seven weeks, far ing well, and enjoying life astonishingly. Last evening the young ladies from Mr. E.'s rode over and took mother home with them. She wUl return to-morrow ; says she is going home this week ; thinks the other members of the family have claims that should not be slighted. I have been greatly blessed having her here so long, and wish she might stay all winter, but I know they must miss her greatly at home. * * * * I am miich pleased with the military service, and never sorry that 1 entered the ranks of the Union Army. It is discouraging to see how affairs are managed, and to think of the causeless butchery and repeated failures which political interference has brought upon our army. Almost every general has been thwarted in his plans by some who were afraid he might become too popular. What a varied record will appear when the annals of this war are written. How the heroism and patriotism of the brave men who risked their lives for their country will put to shame the low ambition of paltry politicians, who, not daring to IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 253 enlist, hovered around the Capital, gathering up spoUs for themselves, and endeavoring to cheat our officers and soldiers out of their hard-earned honors. How I wish you and uncle would come on and pay me a visit. Cannot you do it ? It would be a pleasant and profitable trip for you, I think. You can now visit Con gress and all the objects of interest in Washington, and, what is better, see something of the war. I believe I should go to St. Louis and see you if I could get away. * * * Hope to see you all again some time, and to hear from you very soon. Your very affectionate nephew. Fort Totten, January 31, 1883. Dear Carrie : We were corresponding quite briskly before my sick ness, and I wish we might commence again in the same way. Then I had a good deal of leisure^ now my time is nearly all devoted to business and study. Artillery is much more scientific than infantry, and requires much hard study. Such topics as velocities, resistances, strength of materials, trajectories, ranges, distances, log arithms, tangets, etc., etc., supposed to have been laid aside long ago with college philosophy and mathematics, are now revived. I find myself considerably rusty. Am having officers' recitations three times per week. Mother sits in the other room during these, and is becoming quite learned in artillery. After each, she always has a good many questions to ask on the points in the lesson. She is soon to leave me. Y"ou cannot be more glad to see her than I am sorry to lose her. * * * I believe I am destined to spend the most of my term of service on military courts and boards of some kind. 254 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. Have to-day been ordered on a board for the examination of officers in the defences of Washington, as to efficiency, knowledge, character, etc., to meet in the city. Very likely it will be a month's job. I have serious intentions of taking quarters in the city. How often I tliink of Cambridge. Would like to drop in there with you. * * * Affectionately. Corner 18th St. and Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, D. C, Feb. 25, 1863. Dear Mother : During a recess of the Board I wUl commence a letter for you. I have had to come to Washington, through the mud, nearly every day since you left ; and in the evening, after getting home, the proceedings must be transcribed (generally from eight to twenty pages of foolscap), so that if my labor has not been quite incessant, the little leisure I have enjoyed I have felt very little disposed to devote to writing, although I knew you would be expect ing a letter. Sickness in the regiment has increased to an alarming extent. Two hundred and fifty- seven were off duty yes terday. The measles have got in among us and are making bad work. If a man takes cold during this disease, his chances are small. One S , of Company K, died of congestion of the lungs, the result of measles, on Sunday last, at the Post. Five or six have died within ten days at the hospital, and there are more who are not expected to live. We were thrown into quite a flutter last Sunday week by the announcement that a case of small-pox had ap peared in Company A's barracks, and, strange to say, the announcement proved true. The individual was Mr. Crane, the old fifer, who was in at my quarters on Sun- IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, 255 day evening to sing. I immediately had WiUiam's tent taken off and stockaded down among the stumps, about a half mile east of the fort, and the old man moved down there. We had the buUding and bedding as thoroughly cleansed as circumstances would allow, and the garrison vaccinated. It will be surprising if no more cases ap pear. Mr. Crane's case is a light one, and he is getting along finely under care of a man who has had the disease. Lieutenant E has th§ measles the second time, and is in my quarters. His hut was so breezy and damp that I was afraid he would die if he staid at home. I have got William another tent, and he and Jim are living together as usual; Since you left, we have had two heavy snow storms. To-day we have a hot sun, which is fast melting the snow away. At the last one, which was only a few days ago, about six inches fell, making things appear quite Vermont like. I saw one sleigh out. The guard quarters were finished soon after you left, and the guard have now quite a different place from the old bomb-proof. We had no stove for it for some time, and I sent them out my little tunnel until a new one came. Perhaps if your dresses could speak, they would say, "pity it had not been moved out long ago." We have the barracks and officers' quarters all whitewashed. Company A has a very pretty device on the front of their barracks, consisting of a shield as a base for a flag-staff, cross-cannon (letter of company), and number of regiment. I enclose you a rough sketch of it. All is nicely painted and gilded. We are clearing off the stumps in front of the fort, beyond the ordnance sergeants, and I think, eventually, I shall have the ordnance sergeants' house moved, for the benefit of our drill ground. 2S6 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. We have three women here now, and L. (Company A's cook) expects his wife soon. His quarters and those of the other families are beyond Mr. T.'s. Mrs. T. is as smart as ever. We exchange hospitalities occasionaUy ; I have sent her corn cakes, tomatoes, apples, etc., and she has sent me doughnuts and an apple pie. WiUiam makes an exceUent cook. He has made hardly any fail ure since you left, and withal he is economical. He is always highly delighted to hear from you, and wishes to be remembered in return. He reads and spells every night under one of Company A's men, and is making wonderful progress. I have established an evening school for all at the Post who cannot read and write. There are a dozen in all — ^mostly from Company K. * * Fort Totten, Evening. Have just finished my recitation. For dinner, had beaf steak, potatoes, apple sauce and corn bread. Din ner tastes good at four or five o'clock p. m. I have some new photographs, and I want the opinion of the family as to which is the better. I have no pho tograph of my dear little sister Lilly, and am very anxious to have ohe. Is father going West? If so, he wiU go or come via Washington, of course, and will perhaps bring one of the girls along. Trains run through on the Baltimore and Ohio EaUroad now. Many here inquire for you, and desire to be kindly remembered. Have you nothing from Edward lately? I am in good health and spirits, and Very affectionately your son. in the defences OF WASHINGTON. 267 Fort Totten, D. C, March 8, 1863. (Sabbath afternoon.) My Dear Father: I am disappointed again to-day in receiving no a let ter from home. There is not one in the family but owes me one. I hoped for one to-day, thinking perhaps it might dispel the gloom that has settled on me this afternoon. Our little garrison is afflicted. I wrote mother of a case of small-pox in Company A. The dreadful disease is spreading, and there are now four or five cases in the Company, and Lieutenant F. of Company K has strong symptoms of it. It is very mysterious how it crept in among us. Our barracks are kept thoroughly ventilated and cleansed, and the utmost cleanliness on the part of the men is insisted upon. Somebody from outside must have brought seeds of the disease here. I have no fears about myseU, but it troubles me sorely to see our brave boys prostrated one by one with so foul a disease. I pray God that he wUl arrest its further progress. I have been vaccinated, and Dr. M. said "it worked." Our two worst cases have been taken to a general hos pital, and the others are in tents down among the stumps. I am still engaged on the Board of Examination in Washington, and find it not a very agreeable service in riding out every day through the mud, and sitting there through a tedious session of four hours. I take break fast about half-past eight or nine o'clock A. M., and dinner when I get home, generally about half-past four o'clock P. M. Lieutenant E. has been in my quarters, sick with the measles, for two weeks, but has gone back to his own to-day, almost entirely weU. —17 258 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. We are having very unpleasant weather — rain, haU, snow, sunshine, strangely commingled — mud all the time. Immediately around the fort, however, there is no mud, as we are on the top of a gravel hiU, but the roads generally are terrible. Communication between ours and the other forts occu pied by our regiment is prohibited on account of this miserable small-pox. We hear to-day, however, that a case has appeared at Fort Massachusetts. I was in Congress during the evening of March 3d, the closing night of the session, and stayed until I was tired of it. The Senate is a body of considerable dig nity, but the House is in a perpetual row. If disorder and noise would have defeated action on the various bills passed during the last hours of the session, the opposition would have carried their point, for they neglected no opportunity to cry out, or to make dila tory motions, or trivial points of order. This was done by men of the Vallandigham school. It seems to me the Congress just closed has done better than Congresses generaUy of late years. The Conscription bil} and the bill authorizing Letters of Marque suit the army first rate, but I cannot say as much of the bill for the negro regiments. I would like to see colored regiments formed for fatigue purposes, but am afraid the attempt to make them fight' might prove a failure. I hope it will be a success, however, as I want to see this cursed rebellion closed up soon, and I am glad to see the President in possession of any constitutional means of closing it. We are still confident and hopeful of a complete tri umph of our cause in God's time. I cannot believe that He will permit treason to usurp the throne of Liberty on the American continent. IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 259 Mr. Chase's finance bill I suppose you do not like. I noticed the Vermont Senators and Eepresentatives voted against it. I hope it will work well, I am sure. Is it going to wholly break up New England banks ? I I am not thoroughly posted as to its probable workings. The decline of gold is cheering. We are feeling a little sore that Governor Holbrook does not let us fill up our regiment. We have been artillery now three months, and not a recruit yet, while some other regiments that were transferred at about the same time, are filling up rapidly. What are the prospects for raising men in our part of the State? About nine hundred are necessary to fill our regiment to its maximum. » * * Tell mother the letter she wrote was received by Wil liam's mother, and that he has received an answer from her. He sent another letter to her to-day. * » » Much love to mother and sisters. Your ever affectionate son. Washington, D. C, March 25, 1863. Dear Sister Carrie: Owing to the sickness of my horse, I have been stay ing at Willard's in the city since Monday morning. At that time, when I left the fort, my William had just broken out with smaU-pox, and was being moved into one of the pest tents down among the stumps. He will have good care, and I hope, get well. So you see I am left destitute — minus horse and servant. If I escape the dis ease myself, however, I may consider myself fortunate. On Monday morning the health of the regiment was, I think, slightly improved from the week before. We hope that with the opening of spring we shall see the 260 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. dark veil of disease that hangs over the regiment, lifted. The Board of Examination still continues its tedious sessions, but there is a prospect of adjourning this week. Last evening I met three classmates — F. C, C. L., and 0. H. ; the latter has lately been promoted to Lieutenant- Colonel, and is the highest commissioned officer from our class — a position which I have had the honor of holding until now. Adjutant-General Washburn and Judge Aldis, of Ver mont, have just called, and desire to visit our regimient this afternoon. We shall go out in a carriage at three o'clock. I have some news to tell you, if you have not already heard it. Arthur Little is chaplain of our regiment. He has not come yet, but has his commission, and is expected soon. * * * My dear sister, you and all must write me oftener. My love for you was never stronger. In the midst of hard and tiresome duty, of sickness, sorrow and death, how often, and with what a yearning, my heart turns toward that beautiful quiet home, and its beloved in mates. May God keep you safe. 1 have heard nothing from father nor brother Ed. Much love to mother, Mary and LiUy. Your ever affectionate brother. ' Fort Totten, D. C, March 28, 1863. (Saturday evening.) Dear Mother: I must not longer delay writing you. The ride to and from Washington, my work there, and my duties at the Post in the evening, leave me very weary every night, and I am ready to drop asleep as soon as necessary IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON, 261 work is over. This is the reason I have not written for some days. I have been almost sick since writing last. On Sunday last was taken in the morning with aching bones and distracting pain in my head, which lasted all day, with high fever. In the evening felt better, rested well, and went to Washington the following day. On arriving home Monday evening, the same aching of bones and head came on again, and a chill instead of fever. Fever succeeded the chill, and I got very little rest that night, and the next morning found me in not so much distress, but considerably used up, I however managed to get to Washington, and have been every, day since until to-day. There was no session to-day. How I escaped a fever it is difficult to see, but it is certain I did, for which I try to be thankful to the Great Giver of aU our good things. The unhealthiness about our Post seems almost gen eral. The weU are exceptions, William and my horse are both sick. The former has not been up for two days, and is pretty seriously ill. Since last writing C. H, S,, of Company A, has died of smaU-pox, and A,, of Company K, of typhoid-pneu monia, D, is at Kalorama Hospital, with four or five others of Company A, with smaU-pox, D., the boy who used to sit in our pew at church, is reported very sick to-night. B., of Company K, who is on my cot, will, I am afraid, die on it. He is in Lieutenant H.'s hut. His sister came to-day, I understand. Both companies have deserted their barracks, and are encamped in tents pitched on the slope between here and the ordnance sergeant's. The ordnance sergeant has lately lost his oldest daughter. The barracks are to be cleansed, fum igated and whitewashed inside before the companies re- occupy them. Captain S. is feeble but convalescing. 262 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. Lieutenant Fleury is to-day again threatened with fever. Lieutenant E. is almost down sick with sore throat. Lieutenant L. is the only officer of the garrison "present and for duty." A gloomy picture this, but we keep as cheerful as we can, and hope the worst is over. Spring sun beams out upon us occasionally, and is 'better than medicine, and we are confident that the advance of genial weather is going to restore our afflicted garrison to health and vigor. I am having to make out quarterly returns, like those which you will remember I sent in January 1st. H. is terribly enraged at his discharge. Lieutenant Fleury will probably be promoted. Give a deal of love to sisters, and regards to the young ladies who were so kind as to remember me. Your ever affectionate son. Fort Totten, Friday, April 10, 1863. Dear Mother. This is a sad, sad night. Since I last wrote the death angel has visited our little garrison twice — first taking away Private K., of Co. K, the little fellow who used to be orderly so much for me — and this evening he has summoned Lieutenant Fleury to his last, long home. Yesterday the Lieutenant was thought to be in a favor able condition; but during last night had an attack of hemorrhage, which it was impossible to allay. He died this evening at five o'clock. This is a great blow to us, and is severely felt. He was a favorite, young, bright, genial, affectionate. I do not know that he had an enemy. My personal and official relations with him for the past six months have been intimate and highly satisfactory. His death I regard as a great loss to the service as well as to his friends. He was an officer of IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. - 263 extraordinary ability and fitness. His father and mother arrived at about eight o'clock this morning, and were at his side when he died. Their grief was indescriba ble. I never saw anything like it before. The scene of that mother beside her dying boy is one which can never be effaced from my mind. The Lieutenant had his consciousness until the last, and spoke to me not more than ten minutes before his death. He would not believe that he was going to die. Several told him that he was soon going, and he answered, even after his eyes were fixed : "No, no. I am not. I am not going to die. I am going to get well," and entreated the doctor and his father and mother not to give him up. He had been recommended to the Governor for promo tion {o a first lieutenancy, and his commission was ex pected soon. He told his father of this, and said: "No, I must not die — do not give me up, father," and more to this effect. Of course it has made us all sad. The ways of God are mysterious; but we submit, and say. His wiU be done. Our sick list is decreasing slowly, and we sincerely hope the worst is over. We have had to-day a grand regimental inspection and muster at Fort Slocum. It was very cheering to see the regiment together — something we have not enjoyed before for six or seven months. I expect to see Arthur Littld to-morrow. Am sorry to hear dear sister Mary is so ill. Would not a trip to Washington do her good? Father writes that he wUl return this way if possible. The officers of the regiment are soon to present a beautiful sword to Colonel Warner. Much love to the girls. Write oftener. My health is pretty good. No more smaU-pox since last writing. Your affectionate son. 264 • IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. Fort Totten, D. C, AprU 12, 1873. Dear Mother. I must seize a moment in the midst of the hurry into which I am thrown to inform you of the important fact that we are getting ready to leave Fort Totten. The regiment is under marching orders. We expect to report to Brigadier General Martindale, Military Governor of Washington, to-morrow. May not quite so soon, how ever, but we are ordered to have a day's cooked ra tions on hand, ready for a march at a moment's notice. What this means, or in what it will result, I cannot tell you. I will write you of facts as they occur, whenever I can get leisure. We are all busy here to-night. I am making invoices preparatory to turning over the public property in my charge. Arthur Little reached here yesterday, and to-day has conducted the funeral of Lieutenant Fleury, and did it well. There was a large attendance. Lieutenant F. is deeply mourned by the whole regiment. It leaves a great vacancy here at the post. I feel his loss very deeply. But it is terrible for those parents. It does not seem as though they could bear up under it. I have now seen what it is to be shaken and bowed down with grief. Arthur's first duty with us was a very sad one. He has this afternoon visited the hospital. Our men moved back into barracks yesterday, and the health of the garrison is improving. I shall write again soon. Wherever I go I shall continue to love you all, and shall ever be Your affectionate George. IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 265. Fort Totten, D. C, April 15, 1863. Dear Carrie: Your letter received to-day; thanks. We are still at the old place, and the probabilities of moving are thought to be not great. Still, we keep ready for instant move ment, with one day's cooked rations. We are having a hard rain to-day. Arthur Little is here, and we are messing together; the regiment is very favorably im pressed with him. Yesterday we had some firing with the heavy guns. Tell mother it made the mortar inside my hut tumble. Another interesting event, yesterday; was the adjournment sine die of our board of examma- tion. * * * Last Monday evening we had a sword- presentation, "at Fort Massachusetts ; the officers gave Colonel Warner a most beautiful sabre. The officers' wives were present, also three ladies from Postmaster- General Blair's family. * * * After the presenta tion, came a supper — cake, doughnuts, oranges, apples, nuts and champagne. Everything went off elegantly and in good taste, and aU called it a happy occasion. Arthur wishes to be kindly remembered to the whole family. I was glad to hear from father, in St. Louis. Strange we didn't hear from Ed. I do not forget that I owe Lilly a letter. In haste, your affectionate brother, George. Fort Totten, D. C, May 4, 1863, Dear Father: Yours of the 16th ult, was received day before yes terday, I wiU attend to the deed at first opportunity. Am very sorry you will not come via Washington, Will you not reconsider your decision, and come? Two or 266 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, three days can make no difference with you, and there is probability that there may not be another so good opportunity to meet for some time. Active operations are now begun, and our regiment may be ordered to participate any day. We were ordered to Washington a fortnight ago, but were back in two days. The weather is fine here, and the regiment healthier. Have received a liberal can of maple syrup, for which many thanks, * * * Your affectionate son. Fort Totten, D. C, June 14, 1863. My Darling Sister: A peculiar frame is necessary for writing a letter. For the last month I have been trying to think of something to write you, but my hand has refused to take the pen which should inflict on you an epistle purely dull. Even the other day, writing a business note to father, I had scarcely wit enough to teU him how my health was. To-day, however, in looking back on the month I can see a multitude of incidents which, properly writ ten, would interest you. It has been a pleasant month — a month of roses, with few thorns. Father's visit was very delightful to me. He came unexpectedly, and stopped nearly a week; I wanted him to stay longer, but appreciated his desire to get home, after so long an absence, and also your's to see him. He was here long enough to gain quite a thorough acquaintance with our regiment, and can tell you all about us, as he doubtless has before this. He will tell you that we know very little about war, here, and per haps that we are living and enjoying ourselves about as well as most people do in time of peace. However, IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. 267 we did have a little of the excitement of war just at the time when he was here. We were ordered to be on the alert for a surprise ; to have the guard doubled ; to have one gun loaded for alarm; to have the bridge up and gates barred at night, and — worst of all — to call up the garrison every night at midnight and march them to their places at the guns, and drill ten minutes. One night we had a genuine alarm, caused by the explosion of some cartridges in Captain S — 's quarters. We all thought it was one of the sentinels firing. I threw out a party of skirmishers, under Lieutenant L — , and scouts on the principal roads ; marched the men to the guns ; had the ditch explored, and made dispositions as for a fight. It was quite a good piece of experience for us. Now things are comparatively quiet again, though, in my opinion, we are yet considerably exposed to raids, as the force up along the Potomac to prevent crossing is quite insignificent. There is one pleasant duty devolving on me occasionally, which I must not omit to tell you about. It is "visiting the picket." , The picket is stationed quite near Mr. 's, where B. lives. The chaplain and I called on her Thurs. day evening last. She is one of those ladies such as it is a man's fortune to meet but seldom. She is beautiful, graceful, and charmingly entertaining. She is, in fact, sublime, and I count it a high privilege to enjoy her acquaintance. Do you wonder at its being a pleasant duty "to visit the picket ?" There is a family near the fort, whose acquaintance I have recently made. The name is W., an old family, well to do in the world, and very interesting. They have two young ladies, daughters, blondes. One, nineteen I should judge, lively, industri ous, critical and good natured — ^withal pretty ; the other sixteen or seventeen, innocent, happy, wUd, pretty enough 268 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. to be really charming. She has the most beautiful teeth I ever saw. She is always on the frolic, and there can be no long faces where she is. The whole family is ex ceedingly jolly and hospitable. I have been there once to tea, and once to dinner. They have visited the fort three times. Once was Tuesday last, at artillery practice. They stayed through the firing, and then Chaplain and I went home with them and took dinner. I have a fine bouquet on my table from them. Perhaps you think I am wasting much ink on the subject of ladies. It is ac counted for by the fact that I have seen more of them in the past three weeks, than during all my previous term of service. There are some here almost always at our artillery firing, which occurs twice a week, Tuesdays and Fridays. We have hit a target at four hundred and twenty-five yards, another at one mile, and another at nearly two miles, three thousand two hundred yards. I must tell you about a court-martial which I held last month. A regimental court-martial is held by one field officer. I was detailed for that purpose, and tried ten privates, one who was too sick to come to my quarters, at the hospital. It is a peculiar court, as one man is judge and jury, and the court swears itself and conducts the whole thing solitary and alone. He cannot imprison for more than a month, nor take away more than a month's pay. The ten who came before me were tried in two days. Our little Colonel has gone home on an errand which most young men have to go on once or more times in their lives. We expect him back this week with his bride. Two to one of the field are now married men. The Chap lain expects to be married soon. I think I will inclose you a letter which came to me a few days ago, the first anonymous communication I ever received. There is a class in the north who, jealous of IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 369 those who go from home to do their duty, employ their time in coining and circulating falsehoods about them. There is hardly a soldier in the army who escapes their traducing, lying tongues. They love to believe the first whisper of slander, and love to tell it at every corner, while they as assiduously hide every word in one's favor, for the reason, I suppose, that every such word is a com mentary on their own cowardice. Lieutenant E., a man whose morality would almost satisfy Cicero de officiis, was basely slandered, and they report Dr. F. a drunkard. In reference to my own case, I have not used a profane word since I entered the service, and never have com pelled my command on the Sabbath to do any duty not military or necessary. I confess to manifold sins ; I con fess to a frequent dampness of religious ardor, but he or she who says that I have profaned the name of God, should remember there is a commandment "Thou shalt not lie." The army is a hard place to be religious. I do not forget God by any means, for I pray to him every day, but I come far short of doing my whole duty. One ex pression of a low character, I am sorry to say, I have been tempted to use occasionally under the excitement of bat talion drill, and that is "What in the devU are you about." This is not profanity, but it is beneath a man to resort to such expressions. The writer of this letter probably resides on St. Johnsbury Plain. Little as I care about the thing, I should rather like to know her name. It is one of the worst features of the service that those for whom we are fighting are loth to give us any praise or credit, and eager to circulate all the scandal that jealous and malicious hearts can invent. 270 IK THE DEPENCES of WASHINGTON. My health is good, though I am getting thin, as always in summer. Mrs. Libby is cooking for us now. Hoadley is doing the chores. WiUiam is gone. We shall proba bly get another darkey soon. * * * Your ever affectionate brother. Following is a copy of the letter, written with the palest ink, in the small, cramped style of the anony mous letter-writer. In a postscript of a letter written a year later, not included here, he wrote: "Who could have written that awful letter?" "The Cottage on the Hill," Maj. Chamberlain: God's eye is upon you, as well as the eyes of a whole regiment. Many of them know that while here you professed to be a follower of Jesus, and often now when reproved for their profanity, they answer, "The Major swears and he is a church member." Do you think God will hold you guiltless, when you are daily and hourly profaning his name and uttering blasphemies? Are you not guilty of breaking His Sabbath: breaking His holy law, and the laws of our land ? Will not an offended God call on you to render an account of your stewardship. Do not the men break the Sabbath by your command, so bringing guilt, double guilt on your own soul ? Jehovah may in wrath cut you off in a moment, and are you preparing to meet an offended God? He is long suffering and slow to wrath, but His judgments are sure. What are the pleasures of sin, compared with spending an eternity in hell? "He that being often reproved, hard- eneth his heart, shall suddenly be cut off, and that without remedy." In kindness, I am a soldier's friend and sister. In the defences Of Washington. 271 Fort Totten, June 24, 1863. Dear Mother: I was just going to bed, but thought you would like to hear, if only a word. Am well, but working very hard. We are getting ready for emergencies here. I am in charge of the completion of Fort Slocum. Take breakfast at half-past five each morning, and am over there by six. We work until six in the evening. The work goes on finely, and we hope to finish soon. The fort is in fair fighting order now even. Yesterday my work was nineteen hours with five hour's sleep. Had a good deal of business at my fort after getting home from Slocum. It does not seem possible they will attack the defences, but we do not know what a day may bring forth. We are all in good trim and spirits, and would not object to firing a few guns in earnest, instead of so many at target practice. Love to all. Affectionately, George. Fort Totten, D. C, June 28, 1863. (Half-past ten o'clock, evening.) Dear Father: Before going to bed I will write you a word. We are now in the midst of exciting times here. The enemy's cavalry, to the number of two thousand, are within a few miles of us. A party has burnt one of our wagon trains within eight miles of the city to-day. The men at Fort Stevens are ^standing at their guns constantly. Work on our forts and batteries is going on day and night, the guards are doubled, pickets are thrown out, half of our garrison sleep inside the fort, and everything is put in readiness for a surprise or an attack. I have been out stationing pickets all the ^72 in the defences op WASHINGTON. evening and have had a hard tramp. We feel ¦ quite secure under the precautions we have taken. I sup pose a great battle will be fought in Maryland between Hooker and Lee in a few days. God grant us success. Write me. Your affectionate son, George. After dinner, Monday. We have just received a dispatch which does us good. It is as follows: ' 'To Colonel of Eleventh Vermont Regiment : ' "For the Information of yourself and men, I will state that on yes terday the enemy was badly whipped by Gen. McClellan. The flght commenced early in the morning, and continued until four o'clock. The rebels then commenced their retreat towards the Potomac. Their loss is very severe, and it is confidently believed that the whole army will be captured. Our army is following them up closely ." This accounts for the distant firing we heard yester day. We are anxious for particulars. Father's letter of the 12th received this evening. Am glad to learn that all are well. With much love, your son, George. Fort Totten, D. C, July 14, 1863. Dear Mother: It has been rain, rain, rain, for a while — before, it was as dry. Then everything was parched and almost lifeless, now vegetation is splendid. We have got the fort beautifully turfed, and it is looking as handsome as a garden. So much of this rainy weather makes me melancholy. It always did. Yesterday it did shower down terribly. I never before saw it rain so much in a day. I wonder if it wiU help or hurt the good cause for which we are fighting. I pray God that He wiU soon IN THE DEPENCES OF' WASHINGTON. 273 give us decided victory and complete triumph. I firmly believe He wiU do it some time, but I have a sort of wicked feeling of impatience to see it now. We must bide His time, however. My mind is set on fighting till the end, if it be twenty years. What little strength I have, physical or mental, my country is welcome to. Mother, you don't know how I ached to be at Gettys burg. To have shared in the glories of the Second Ver mont Brigade that day, would have been enough. How splendidly the Green Mountain Boys fight. The achieve ments of both the old and nine months brigade made me almost envious. Our regiment, I am afraid, will be nowhere when the stories of the war come to be told. I am convinced it would distinguish itself if called on to fight, for I regard the material as good as anything from the State. How gloriously the seige of Vicksburg terminated. That is destined to occupy an important page in history. How awfully disgraceful the affair in New York City yesterday, though I cannot think any of the decent portion of the population were engaged in it. Whoever they were, nothing would afford me more com plete satisfaction than to wheel my battery of field pieces onto their front, and pour grape and cannister into them. What a glorious dawning the Gettysburg and Vicks burg news opened upon us, after the almost impene trable darkness that preceded. You have no idea how it thrilled the army with joy. I had the pleasure of meeting Brigadier-General Stannard after Gettysburg, where he was wounded, and got from him much of inter est in relation to the battle. Both our men and the rebels fought with the most terrific desperation. Oh, what an account have the rebel oligarchy to settle, for drawing our misguided brothers into this rebelhon. —18 274 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. Fort Totten is much pleasanter than when you were here. We are in the midst of blu6 and blackberries — they grow all around us. William got homesick, and is back again. Mrs. L. cooks for us. Several convenineces have been added to the house. The shelves are gone, and a good cupboard substituted. I have a new and very fine desk. Alas, the old roof remains as of old, only it leaks worse. Times are not so exciting at the fort as they have been, nor work so hard. Am now busy, however, with my quarterly returns. My health is remarkably good. It seems as though I never slept so soundly and sweetly. I called on Colonel W.'s new wife the other evening, and liked her very much. Lieut enant-Colonel B. has an interesting wife and children. This afternoon Misses E. and E. W. were here. They are pleasant girls. I have spent several jolly evenings with them. The family is very hospitable and enter taining. I have a little garden in the rear of my quar ters where I shall have a fine crop of tomatoes and cucumbers. Love to all. Your affectionate son. Fort Totton, D. C, July 22, 1863. Dear Mother: It was a funny idea for you to imagine me on the cars bound for home on Sunday night. Did you hear anything about my coming? I had had some hope of going, and the party which I expected to go in charge of, went on Sunday, the very day you imagined me coming. A detail was ordered to go to Vermont to receive and bring on the drafted men for the regiment. Colonel Warner recommended me strongly for the duty, but Colonel Gibson disapproved, saying he could not spare me and that lieutenants had better be sent. Lieutenant IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. 275 L. has gone from this Post. I would be delighted to visit home this summer, but it is hardly probable that I can. I can give no reason but "visiting friends," and that is not a very good or available one here. Our officers, who go home to get wives, word their applications "for the purpose of fulfilling a marriage engagement." I asked Colonel Warner the other day if he thought I could get one through, based on a reason similar to the above, substituting the word "contracting" for "fulfill ing." He said he should be delighted to assist me. My hurry seems to be all over for the present in the matter of work, and I am having quite a season of leisure. It is getting to be very warm. My health continues excel lent. I met, the other evening, for the second time a very pretty young lady from New York, Miss Gardiner, sister of the Adjutant of the Fourteenth New Hampshire, a neigh boring regiment." I had a pleasant horseback ride with her. You approve of association with young ladies of the right kind. It is well. I have several such acquaintances here, and you must think of me as rather more social than is my general custom at home. Do not write blue letters ever, but send along the lively ones thick. I expect to lose my chum Arthur, soon, and shall miss him severely. We have cucumbers from our garden to-day. Ask father to write me immediately how I had better invest $300. Love to all. Hoping you wUl write soon, Affectionately your son, George. 276 IN THE DEPENCES OF WASHINGTON. Fort Totten, D.C, July25, 1863. Dear Father: Yours of the 22d is just received, and I was glad to get it. You have a right to inquire into my habits and conduct ; and if you had not, I hope I should at all times be wUling to explain them to you. One of my highest desires is to stand before my father and family without reproach — one of my firmest resolves is, that I will stand bef9re them without reproach. Of the writer of the letter you saw, I shall say nothing. It was doubt less purely malicious in its origin, and was certainly false in some of its statements. Of the affair referred to, I will give you a complete explanation. In every regi ment you will find, now and then, a man who tries to get his discharge from the service by "playing off" as we call it — that is, feigning sickness. They are often the most perplexing cases a surgeon or a commanding officer has to deal with. The man referred to in Battery K, Private B, has, in the judgment of Surgeon Kidder, Asst. Surgeon "Porter (who has charge of Battery K), the company officers and myself, been feigning lame ness for a period of about eight months. The captain, as long ago as while mother was here, several times tied him up by his hands to an upper beam in his barrack, thus compelling him to stand. A few days before the occurrence referred to in the letter, he was sent to the hospital by Dr. Porter, in order that a thorough examination might be given him, and justice done him if he had been abused before. Dr. Kidder made the examination, and sent him back to camp the same day, and soon called on me about the matter. He said there was no appearance of lameness whatever in B.'s leg— that he complained of soreness and pain, not in any joint, but in the calf of the leg— a thing in IN THE DEPENCES OP WASHINGTON. 277 itself very unreasonable ; that he stUl believed he was "playing off," and that he could not mark him off duty. He advised me to put him at scouring muskets — work he could do sitting — and make him work. I told him I was reluctant to do it, but he said I ought to, as if B. was permitted to go on, it would be but an encourage ment to other sluggards, cowards and sneaks, to pursue the same .course. Accordingly, the next morning I ordered Sergeant Fisk to take B. to the fort, give him a rusty musket and tools, and set him to work. He got along about opposite my quarters, lay down on the ground, and said he could not and would not go any further. I ordered him ridden into the fort on a rail, if he would not walk. Eather than this, he got a couple of the boys to help him, and walked in. He was soon reported to me as lying down, refusing to do anything. I immediately sent Sergeant Fisk to ask Dr. Kidder if it would be safe to shower him. He answered that it would be perfectly safe. I then ordered him showered with some water which had stood in the fort during a day or two's sun, and was quite warm ; and if this did not have the desired effect, to take him over to the brook and administer the same thing to him with colder water. The first showering had the desired effect, although he is not cured of his pretended lameness. He is working every day on the rusty guns. This is the whole story. The "great excitement" in camp after the affair was entirely a creation of the writer's imagina tion. Naturally it would be talked about, but no ex citement prevailed, and no disturbance whatever was threatened, B. is a great, fat sluggard — eats his full rations every day, and is not, in my opinion, worthy of any sympathy. The cold shower bath, by means of a forcing pump, is the punishment administered by 278 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. General Martindale, Military Governor of Washington, in almost all cases of offending soldiers picked up by the patrols in the city, and it is used with good effect. G. was picked up down there the other day, and got three severe showerings. In B.'s case, my conscience does not reproach me in any way. If the writer of the letter ever should see fit to try a course similar to B.'s, and I am his commander, let him think himself fortunate if he escape with no harsher treatment ; but as long as he or any other man behaves himself like a man and a soldier, he shall always be sure of receiving at my hands the treatment which every true soldier de serves, and I do not believe any officer in the army has a higher appreciation of a good soldier than my self. My course of discipline, you may imagine is not good, but in this I cannot be guided by your opinion. I do not propose to change it unless by command of my superior military officers. My men are as faithful and as soldierly as any in the brigade. We have fewer arrests at Fort Totten than at any other Post in the brigade. What ! is that little room your prison-room ? the inspectors almost always ask. I can always answer, yes, and that we hardly ever have it fuU. As to the assertion that I am detested by the two companies here— I wiU not descend to notice it. It is enough that I am contented and happy here, doing my duty — that is, as contented as I could be anywhere doing garrison duty. I am always ready and willing to submit any act of mine to the closest scrutiny of my superior officers. The anonymous growlings of a mal-content do not disturb me in the least. I move in a higher sphere. I neither have, nor ever did have, the slightest fear of assassination or violence of any kind IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 279 from my soldiers. Please tell the kind friend that we have not just yet at Fort Totten any need of assistance against mob violence. Any soldier thinking himself wronged by an officer, may make complaint to the next higher authority, and obtain redress. Anyone making complaint in other ways, may be regarded as having an insufficient cause, and to be acting on spite rather than reason. As to my intercourse with the soldiers, I pray God I may never treat them inconsiderately or unkindly, but whUe an officer, I can never be on terms of personal inti macy with them. The good of the service will not allow it. Officers who are so, very seldom succeed. I never can cater to the passions, freaks and prejudices of a body of soldiers. Once commenced, and I am ruined. Attempt to please, to favor them, to be popular, and you will find yourself pleasing but a part, and that part will not have a genuine respect for you, although they call you a good fellow. They wUl not depend on you when the trying hour comes. When the war closes and we are citizens again, I will be glad to meet them as equals, but not tiU then. Don't take this letter as an attempt to assert perfec tion, I know and confess my faults and sins every day, but as a military officer, I do stoutly maintain that my course has been neither severe nor unjust. Soldiers know that transgression here meets its punishment imme diately — hence they are slow to transgress. The appro bation of my superior officers and of my own conscience is what I have aimed at, and God helping me, I will continue to seek regardless of consequences. I cannot consult with Colonel Warner, or anybody else in this matter. If you wish to correspond with him, I haven't the slightest objection. This letter is for the family, and 280 IN THE DEPENCES OF WASHINGTON. you are at liberty to read it to any of my real friends — but not to the news-mongers or mischief makers. Let them scatter their rumors — I care no more for them than for a puppy's barking, or the hissing of a goose. Let me hear from you soon and often. • Your ever affectionate son. Fort Totten, D. C, July 27, 1863. Dear Uncle and Aunt : I have been thinking that when George finishes his visit in Vermont, it would be pleasant and profitable for him to return this way and stop for a few days with me. I have such accommodations that a visit here would give him no more exposure than one to Vermont. I have a good room for him, a good bed, and good food. There can be not the slightest danger in his coming here, unless the enemy should again cross the river and threaten our railroads. The visit would show him the National Capi tal, and give him quite an insight into the war, besides giving me much pleasure. It would be pleasanter still for me to have you come on, and meet him here. I should be delighted to see you. My duties are not very pressing just now, less so than I would like. So it is with us ; sometimes we must work day and night, and at others, suffer from inactivity. * * * There are several good famUies in our vicinity with whom we spend many social hours. Among them are the Blairs, and John C. Eives, editor of the Congressional Globe. In conversation with the Postmaster-General about St, Louis, he spoke of you as knowing you very well. The victories east and west are inspiring. I am hope ful and confident that the war wUl be over in a year, IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, 281 but if such is not God's will, we are willing to fight longer, I feel like giving myself to the country till the rebellion is thoroughly conquered. It wUl gratify me if you can write oftener. If any in St. Louis remember me enough to inquire for me, give them my regards. I am always glad to hear the neighborhood news there. Love to the Marys. Your affectionate nephew. Fort Totten, D. C, April 29, 1863. My, VERY Dear Brother. I will write you still again. All my letters since the beginning of this year, I think, remain unanswered. But it is a great comfort for me to know, from letters lately received at home, that you are well and pros perous. We were all very anxious during the long interval of your silence. Mother, I think, feels heavily the continued absence of both her sons. It is our duty to write her often. And I do not know as the others of the family love us less than she. I suppose neither of us fully appreciates the solicitous affection which each one of them has for us. We are blessed with a father, mother, and sisters who are everything to us we could expect or desire. * * * Father was telling me that Uncle EdgeU would like to have you go into his store in St. Louis. I do not know, of course, what induce ments your business offers, or what attractions Cali fornia has for you. Doubtless the latter are great — greater probably than St, Louis could have, but certainly a place in uncle's store would be one of the richest opportunities for advancement you could possi bly obtain. His house is now one of the oldest, most respectable, and most influential in the city. If I were to be a mercantile man, I would get in with him if I 282 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. possibly could. I believe honestly it is the place for you. If I get out of the war safe, very likely I shall settle in that city; this is not certain, however, only probable. In case both of us were there we might be of mutual assistance to each other. Besides, I trust it would always be pleasant for us to be living in the same city. This thing demands your most careful con sideration. * * * My whole heart is in this war. I shall stick to it untU rebellion is conquered. Our regi ment is being recruited to full strength. We expect soon to number eighteen hundred strong. Write me, Ed, a long letter. Do not delay again, Your ever affectionate brother. Fort Totten, August 6, 1863, My very Dear Mother. I sit down to write you this afternoon with peculiar emotions. This will announce to you and the family one of the most important events in my life, and one which I hope will not fail to awaken in you all a lively interest— my engagement. It has been a very sudden and unexpected thing to both of us. It was consum mated on the evening of Saturday, August 1st, after the very brief acquaintance of ten days, I first saw her on the 9th of July, but scarcely more than to show her the ordinary civilities extended to strangers visiting the fort. On the evening of the 20th I met her again, and became acquainted. The time between that and the 1st may seem to you altogether too short to warrant so important a step ; but, mother, it is all, right. I have found what I never expected to find, a woman in whose loVe, and in whose ability to make pie happy, I have the most perfect confidence, and I am not excited when IN THE DEPENCES OP WASHINGTON. 283 I say this, but calm. I cannot be mistaken in her. Her love for me is simply wonderful, I can hardly believe I possess it when I am absent from her, I hope all my friends will be her friends. How do you like the name of Adelia Gardiner ? In personal appear ance she is above medium height in woman, has dark, rich hair, dark beaming eyes, rather a small face, and is very intelligent and lively. She has a delicious voice, and her words are always expressive and well chosen. Her bearing is dignified, graceful and ladylike. She is in clined to be a little slender, and I am afraid has not a strong constitution. She needs to rusticate among the Green Mountains, and if war were not such a tyrant, she should, this very summer. Her home is in New York City, and she is now on a visit to her brother, adjutant of the Fourteenth New Hampshire Volunteers, stationed about three miles from us. Her age is twenty- three, mine twenty-five. I have told you imperfectly of her person, something I have supposed you would be curious to know; but, mother, to me her chief beauty is one I cannot attempt to describe, that of heart and soul. I can not be with her and fail to be happy, and to be constantly improved. Now, mother, let me tell you that I commenced writing you this news two days ago, but have been so busy as not to be able to finish ; so to-day I commenced anew. I have wanted to tell you from the first moment, and I want you to write me now a good long letter, that will do me good. I want to hear from all of you. God bless you— father, mother, brother and sisters. I shall never love you less because I love another. more. Will you not love us. We ask your blessing. As ever affectionately, George, 284 IN THE DEPENCES OP WASHINGTON. i Fort Totten, D. C, Aug, 9, 1863, Dear Carrie : It is so strange I don't hear from some of you that I begin to fear I'm given up. There's not one of you now but owes me a letter. If you knew the anxiety with which I've watched the mail the last ten days, you would be sorry you had so neglected me. I can't understand why it is, and I hope you will soon relieve me of the dis comfort of never receiving a letter. To-morrow evening wiU doubtless teU you, through mother, surprising, but, I hope, agreeable news. You have heard me talk a great deal, Carrie, and you may laugh at me for inconsistency. Well, laugh — and I will laugh with you. I have said some strange things, but still I have always secretly hoped that some time I might find the right one. I have now providentially found her, and am satisfied and happy. I am sure you wUl like her, and I hope you wUl write her. You may caU her Delie. I see her every evening, but she will leave for New York next week, probably, I don't know tvhat I shall do without her. We were out horse back-riding last evening. In fact, our acquaintance may be said to have been formed and established during horse back rides. ****#» Now, Carrie, just have a little mercy on me, and write, and make the others. Did father get a long letter from me a while ago ? Much love to each and all, from your and their affectionate George. Fort Totten, D, C, Aug, 11, 1863, My Dear Brother : I shall not write you much to-day— just enough to communicate a piece of news which I hope wUl please you. To use a common phrase — they say I'm engaged, IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. 285 and it's true. I've found a girl who just suits me, who was made for me. It is scarcely a month since I first saw her, and I have been intimately acquainted with her only since the 20th of July. It was a very short acquaint ance, you vriU perhaps say, on which to found an engage ment. It was short — commencing July 20, and the engagement consummated August 1 — but long enough. * * * The best I can wish for you, Ed, is that you may, in good time, be as happy as I, and find a girl who will love you as well. We do not propose to defer our marriage to any late day. We think it may, perhaps, occur in October. This I have not told any of the family but you. I have told Delie aU about you, and she already manifests in you a sister's interest. I hope, Ed., to hear from you some time. Your affectionate brother. Fort Totten, D. C, Aug. 13, 1863. My Darling Sister : You are dearer to me than ever. I am blessed far beyond my deserts. Your letter this afternoon is one of the noblest, dearest, that it has ever been my lot to receive. To know that one has such friends gives one a purer ambi tion, loftier purposes, a nobler life. How I can ever live to reward those who have loved me so long and well, and to merit that new affection which has so lately made me happy, is now the greatest question of my life. The first thing I did after reading your letter was to draw a copy, which to-night I shall give to Delie Gardiner to preserve as a memento of the first gush of love that went out towards her from your warm true heart. I want to hear from you all, and I have not much doubt but every letter will breathe the same kind thoughts as yours — the first. I have seen Delie every day since our engagement. I 286 IN tSe defences of* Washington. like to have her ride every evening, as she is located quite near the city, and where the air is none of the purest. Then, for two weeks the weather has been so terribly hot that one could not stir till evening, so that, unless she can ride then, she would get no exercise at all. Carrie, she is more than I ever expected in a woman. She is all I want. Will it surprise you if I say we don't intend our marriage shall be deferred to any very late day ? ' We now talk of the early part of October. Our plan is to be married in New York, and pay a hasty visit (as long as my furlough would allow) to our Vermont home, then return together to the theatre of war. The operations and uncertainties of war render such plans considerably uncertain, but we hope they may be fulfilled. How delightful will be that visit home. This morning I attended the funeral of .Lieutenant-Colonel Benton's two youngest children. A Uttle girl died the day before yesterday, and a little boy yesterday ; both were buried in one grave. It was a sad occasion. Arthur has gone into the city to-day to meet his Lizzie. He expects to be married to-morrow. Delie will probably go to New York Monday. I Hope I shall have strength given me to get along without her, but I don't see how I'm going to. Much love to father, mother, Mary, and Lilly. From your affectionate George, Fort Totten, D, C, August 16, 1863, Dear Aunt Louise : Yours of the 10th was received day before yesterday, for which many, many thanks. I have been on the point of writing you several times in the past few days. IN THE DEFENOES OP WASHINGTON. 287 After communicating any interesting piece of news to the friends at home, I find myself prompted next to write to you. I hope you will not think I've delayed too long, as my news is only sixteen days old. The burden of it is a "gem," — 1 quote your word — but my "gem" I have already found and seen. I saw her first on the 9th of July, but then only had the pleasure of showing her through my fort as I do other strangers every day. On July 20th I met her again. Our acquaintance dates from then. On the 1st of August we were engaged. The time seems short, but there has appeared to me no haste. After our ten days' acquaintance I felt sure she was the one you used to tell me about,— who was created, destined for me, — and the longer I know her the surer and safer I feel. Her name is Adelia Gardiner. She is familiarly called Delie. * * * She is full of heart and soul, and is a Christian. In personal appearance, tall, dignified, graceful and ladylike; has very dark hair, a dark and bright-beaming eye, and a very intelligent, expressive countenance. I wish you could see her, and, God wil ling, you shall some time. Perhaps if you could indulge in a journey east about October 1st, you would see us in Vermont, married. Our plans can not be absolutely certain as long as I am in the army, but if I can get a ten or fifteen days' leave, we intend to be married early in October in New York, and visit our home in Vermont. How I wish you could come to New York and go on home with us. She expects to go home early this week. I talk to you and uncle as freely as I would to mother and father. I would like to have the secret kept for awhUe, though I would Uke grandma to know it. I hope it will be arranged so I shall get that visit from George. I shall feel disappointed not to see 288 m THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. him. Send him this way if you can. Yesterday Mr. Little, our chaplain and my college classmate, was mar ried in the city. Delie and I were bridesmaid and groomsman. Love to all the family. As ever affectionately, George. Fort Totten, D. C, August 18, 1863. My Very Dear Mother: Your anxiously expected letter reached me Saturday. I am glad to have your so hearty approval, notwith standing your cautious suggestion about haste. I am not at all surprised that it should occur to you in such a light. Time must prove to you whether we were rash. We think not, but feel surer and safer every day. We are both very grateful to you for your' many kind wishes, and for the heartiness with which you welcome your new daughter to your hearts. I hope to have the pleasure of introducing you early in October. What a pleasant visit that will be for us all, if it can occur. It would be rather more agreeable to me if this thing could be kept a secret within the family for awhile. However, I am, willing to leave that part of it to your own judgment. I merely tell you my preference. What does my darling little Lilly think about it? Can't she write me a letter of congratulation? Affectionately, George, to carrie, Fort Totten, D, C, August 28, 1863, My Dear Sister: I was glad of your vigorous description of the White Mountain tour, as I had been hoping you would write me about it. I trust your escort of young gents was very IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, 289 gaUant and knightly. To pass over that for the pres ent, let me talk about the "subject matter" of your last two pages. Nothing is certain in war, but if all is quiet in the Department of Washington, I shall apply for a leave to date September 29th. If granted, shall go to New York on that day, be married Octobei^ 1st, and reach my dear home at St. Johnsbury Saturday even ing, October 3d. This is our plan. Its execution is contingent, but we hope not to be disappointed. Now, see you we must, and I should be greatly disappointed not to have you at home, but perhaps it is not best. By waiting for us you would lose the first four weeks of your term. If you can make father and mother and yourself believe that it is not too great a sacrifice, wait. If not, you must meet me in New York, September 30th, and be present at the wedding. Do you smile? By the way, the wedding is to be ¦ in church. But in New York all will be hurry and excitement, and I shall not get one good look at you. My desire is very strong that we may enjoy a few quiet days with you at home, I wish Ed. could be there, so the family should be un broken, I want to tell you that love story you think is so good, instead of trying to write anything about it. It is de cidedly romantic, and if to you, certainly to me, it puts in the shade all the novels in creation, * » * To day a year ago my commission as major was handed me, I've had a great deal to be thankful for since then. The year has seemed very short. Write immediately. Good night. Affectionately, George, —19 290 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. TO CARRIE. Fort Totten, D. C, September 10, 1863. Dear Sister: The reason for my desiring the special answer which you are inclined to treat with so much uncalled-for levity, was prompted by a regard for your own interest and pleasure. I was anxious to know at the earliest possible moment whether you decided to wait or go, so that in the latter case the trip to New York might be arranged before you left home. Delie invites you cordially to come and spend as much time as you can with her, previous to October 1st. * * * Mother writes that father says that you may go to New York if we cannot go to Troy. This we cannot do, and I shaU therefore of course expect you. I shaU not hope to obtain more than an eleven days' leave of absence. I trust you will write Delie immediately. Am going away this evening, and can write no more. Hereafter I shaU refrain from asking you to write immediately or soon, but shall feel safer to let you suit your own time and con venience. As ever your affectionate brother, , George. Fort Totten, D. C, Sept. 11, 1863. Dear Mother: Your's and Lilly's letters came yesterday, and were, as always, welcome. My application will be for an eleven days'»leave. I should be delighted to spend two weeks with you, or even one, but either wUl be impossible. About the time of my marriage being known — you say do not be worried. I am not worried, because I am confident that you wiU not disregard my urgent request that it should not be pubUshed. If I get my leave I IN THE DEPENCES OP WASHINGTON. 291 will inform you immediately, and then you can announce the thing to our friends. I am sorry not to have been able to send you a photograph of my DeUe, but she has tried in vain two or three times to get one to her mind. I expect one every day for you, and when re ceived it shall be immediately sent, if I am at all satisfied with it. If not, you will have to wait a little longer, and meet the original without introduction by the pho tographer. She is a good girl, mother, and when you know her, you will say she is just the one for me. You have inquired about her family. At the time of our engagement I knew nothing about it, or her cir cumstances. My mind was made up very quick that she was the one for whom I have long had a silent hope, that she would be to me all I desired, and with out delay, or fear, or reserve, I told her my whole heart. This is the way I have always hoped to love, so that no sinister motive could by any possibUity influence me. Not a moment has seen me doubt that we have been given to each other by the blessing of Heaven— not a moment but I have been satisfied and happy. * * * September 14. Dear Carrie : Yours from Troy came yesterday, and was very wel come. I am sorry about those tears. It looks a little as though you were homesick, but you seem to be con fident you are not. I have not much to write you this morning, but have plenty of time— what I had not the last letter, I remember. I can show my good wiU by telling you that I am weU, and how much pleasure I anticipate in seeing you soon. I am quite sanguine of success in obtaming my leave, though it is of course un- 292 IN THE DEPENCES OP WASHINGTON. certain. To fail would disappoint me terribly. The wedding is to be in full dress, and according to the Episcopal form. * * * September 16. My Darling Sister: Yours of the 12th came to-day. This wUl be the fourth I have sent you at Troy. It will always be a rich pleasure to me to write you, as long as my letters afford you pleasure, and whenever I write anything that is not kind and loving, you must forgive and forget. I do not intend it shaU ever happen, but I sin as well as others. It is very pleasant to think I shall see you so soon, and that under such pleasant circumstances — with your new sister. We have never been so long separated as at this time. I bade you fareweU on the 16th of Sep tember, 1862, and 1 feared it might be a longer fareweU than one year or two. God has been very kind to me since I entered the army — always, in fact. His bless ings have been constant and rich. * * * It is long after taps, and I must bid you good night. You cannot write too soon nor too often to Your affectionate and loving brother. September 22. Dear Carrie : Delie says she has received an affectionate, sisterly letter from you, and loves you dearly for it. I am glad your acquaintance has been initiated. May it be strengthened more and more the longer it continues. I know you will love each other. I hope you wUl go to New York, accepting her invitation, as soon as you think it practicable, not delaying beyond Monday, the IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. 293 28th. I shall telegraph you if my leave is granted. I have learned to-day that it has gone by General Heint zelman safely. One week from now and perhaps we^ shall be together. Only think of it; it is a happy an ticipation. * * * September 24. Dear Mother: Your welcome letter came to-day, for which, thanks. I am made happy this evening by the receipt of my "leave." We shaU be married on Thursday, October 1st, at one o'clock p. m. ; spend Friday in Boston, and go to Vermont on Saturday, the 3d. Please notify our relatives in Lyndon and Burke, I know you wiU rejoice with me, and be ever so glad. to see again your George. Chapter IX. IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. (1863-1864.) "The heart is like an Instrument whose strings Steal nobler music from Life's many frets ; The golden threads are spun through suffering's fire. Wherewith the marriage-robes for heaven are worn ; And all the rarest hues of human life Take radiance, and are ralnbow'd out In tears." GEBAI/D Mabeey. Letters from October 11, 1863, to August 21. 1864, inclusive — Marriage in New York, October 1— Four Days in St. Johns bury— Return to Fort Totten with his Wife— Mary in St. Louis- Carrie in Willard Female Seminary, Troy, N. Y. — Moved to Port Lincoln, March 29— Regiment ordered into active Service May 12— Assigned to the Second Brigade, Second Division, Sixth Corps of the Army of the Potomac— Down the Valley of the Potomac- Return to the Defences of Washington, July 12— Pursuit of Early in the Shenandoah Valley — Second Return to the Defences of Washington, July 25— Immediate Return to the Shenandoah Valley. Fort Totten, D, C, October 11, 1863, Dear Mother: After leaving our dear home nothing occurred out of the usual routine of railroad travel until we got below Brattleboro, where we were detained about two hours by a train which had been thrown off the track. By this accident we lost the evening train for New York, We lay down at the Massasoit until eleven o'clock, when we took the midnight express which brought us to New York at half-past five in the morning. We left IN THE DEPENCES OF WASHINGTON, 295 at ten a, m,, after a pleasant little visit at Delie's home, and arriving in Washington at half-past ten in the even ing, I reported at the Adjutant's office before midnight. The unexpected night-riding tired Delie a good deal, but she has now had two days of rest and is herself again. Everything at the fort has gone on splendidly. Yesterday brother Alex. caUed ; also Mr. and Mrs. Little, and last evening we had a serenade from our brass band. I have inspected the regiment and commanded a dress parade this afternoon. Our boarding place is not all we could desire, though we intend to be content until we can have quarters buUt. Mother, we had a splendid time in Vermont. We talk about it a great deal. Delie was delighted with everything.. . The kindness of all will never be for gotten, and the cordiality of all the people we met was extremely pleasant to us. I have been quite busy since returning, and shall be for some days to come, but shall try and not neglect writing you. We shall hope to hear from all of you — father, mother and sis ters — whom we love so much. Your affectionate George. Fort Totten, D. C, October 20, 1S63. My Dear Mother : I believe I have written you once, though I have been so busy I can scarcely remember anything. Active operations south of the Potomac always put us on the qui vive, and ever since our return I have had my hands full. Fort Slemner, the next on our right, a small work, has been put under my command, which of course in creases my duties. It is about three-fourths of a mile. 296 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. by the road, from here. I visit it each day. A field officer of the day is one of the new "institutions" which the excitement has brought. My turn comes once in three or four days. The duties are, to visit and instruct aU the guards and pickets of the brigade. On Saturday last, Delie made half the tour (about ten miles) with me, in the afternoon. The other half I made alone, after eight in the evening, and it was quite a night ride. Delie has been asking me for several days to write you, and this morning said you must have a letter to day, if she had to write it. My happiness with her is complete. She is aU to me that I could ask — more than I expected. I seem like a new being. Her pres ence makes everything cheerful, and times seem very different from former days. We are not quite pleas antly situated at our boarding place, and are both very anxious to get into camp, but I am not certain when we shall be able to do it. * * * This morning Delie walked up to the fort with me, and, during the forenoon, over to Slemner and back. This has given her three miles a day for these two days. She is per fectly well, and I have no reason to doubt that she is very happy. I am more and more thankful for her every day. The old quarters where you and I lived so cheerfully are torn away, and new ones for line officers built in stead. I was sorry to see it go. There is many a pleasant reminiscence connected with that little hut. Mother, I think every day what a magnificent visit we had at home — the pleasantest, in fact, I ever en joyed. I shall always remember that home with in- tensest affection ; and that father and mother, whose tender watchfulness and solicitous care have been my IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 297 constant attendants, can never lose the high respect and earnest love which their untiring kindness has im planted in the heart of a grateful son. I have been signally blest all my life: God gave me the best of parents, a loving brother and sisters, and now has crowned all His favors by giving me a wife whose like is not known, and who loves me, I believe, with all the devotion of which human heart is capable. The days are delightful — the sweetest of the year. You cannot tell how we enjoy our rides and walks. To-morrow evening a grand ball is given at Slocum — a sort of dedication of the new barracks. Delie and I propose to go, because we do not like to be strange, but do not expect to enjoy it. * * * Your affectionate George. Fort Totten, D. C, November 26, 1863, My Dear Aunt : I was inexpressibly pained to-day to learn of the sad> sad accident which has occurred to George, It is sin gular the news has not reached us before. The battle field is not the only place for ghastly wounds. I hope for the best in George's case, but it will seem a miracle if his hand is saved. Poor boy — so young, so buoyant, so joyfully active — how suddenly and severely has he been afflicted. May some great comfort arise for him which wUl blunt the edge of his sorrow. How little do we know what a day may bring forth. Our home now, my dear aunt, is all joy. May God continue it. I have not yet acknowledged your kind letter of Octo ber 1st. You knew just what to saw and when to say it. I want to see you and talk. Writing is unsatis factory. I could tell you a good story, not unmingled 298 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. with romance. I was married, as you know, on the 1st of October. We went directly to St. Johnsbury, stopping one day in Boston. Fmur days was all we had at home. You may imagine how crowded they must have been. They gave us a reception, which was quite a grand and successful affair for St. Johnsbury, Our wedding was according to the Episcopal form, and was a very nice affair, at least so said to be by many who saw it, Delie was dressed in a beautiful pearl silk, very light, trimmed 'm'Cn point applique lace and bead trim mings, a coronet of rosebuds, and the veU, She looked •magnificent. I was dressed in my uniform, Ann Ca hoon, Ada Chase, Mary Francis Ladd and Mrs, Dick inson were there. * « * Give much love from us both to uncle and cousins. We hope to hear George is improving. Your affectionate nephew. Fort Totten, D, C, November 27, 1863, My Dear Mother : The box full of good things came to-night, and I don't know but we were just as glad to get it as if it had come before Thanksgiving, though to be sure we were disap pointed yesterday not to receive it. We had been out for a horseback ride this afternoon, and returned about half-past three, when my clerk stepped out and said "the box has come," before we had dis mounted. "Oh! has it," said Delie, and jumped from her saddle so hastily that she came near being caught, and tearing her dress. We soon had it open and were feasting our gaze on its contents as they appeared, piece by piece. Everything reached us in a good state of preservation, and every article was very acceptable. IN THE DEPENCES OF WASHINGTON. 299 The most acceptable thing of all, however, is to be made to feel by such a thing that we are remembered and loved at home. We are getting on grandly, though not yet in our new quarters. Our present quarters are quite comfortable, but cannot compare with the new ones. We have two rooms. The front one we use for office, and both sit in it the greater part of the time. The other one is the sleeping-room. We have a good bedstead, mattress, sheets, etc. One of the pillows we use is the little one you gave me ; the other is borrowed from the Littles, We expect a pair soon. We have a pretty wash-stand made by a soldier, with a white bowl and pitcher on it, and shall soon have a bureau, home-made bureau, and a new table, which wUl be spread with a white cloth, and all the necessary crockery for a cozy meal. We are now eating on the same table you and I used, with the oil cloth, you know. Our food is always good and clean. We have just what we want, and have it hot, a luxury we never enjoyed at our boarding place. Delie makes nice biscuit, cake, pies, omelette, puddings, etc. Would'nt you like to open the kitchen door on her some morning, in her caUco dress ? You would find her there, as every where else, the same efficient, cheerful, loving girl. In borrowed language I can say of her "she touches noth ing that she does not adorn." I have a treasure in her, and am completely satisfied and happy. * * * '^We are digging a well in the fort. Are now down one hundred and forty feet, and have just struck water. Our barracks are about completed. Fort Totten has changed vastly since you saw it. A year ago now you were at Mr. Eives', and I here. How quick the time has sped, and what an event for me the year has brought. 800 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. How unexpected then, but I remember once you said, in view of leaving me, that you hoped I would find the right one soon. Delie's brother, Alexander, the adjutant, has lately been promoted to be major. He calls frequently — ^is a fine man — one of the noble few of this world. What about going west ? Who goes, and wUl we see any of you ? Why does not Mary write us ? Ask her to, and all write often. Very affectionately your son, George. Fort Totten, D. C. December 3, 1863. My Dear Carrie : Perhaps you and I had better begin oiar correspond ence over again. Have I been neglectful of one I love — has she looked at that neglect in a stronger light than it would bear, and failed to make sufficient allowance for circumstances ? Let such questions go unanswered, and let you and I talk to each other as we used to. Shall we? It is now two months since we met so pleasantly in New York, The pleasure of meeting you there was second only to the great joy. How I wish you could have gone to Vermont with us. The day in Boston was rather unpleasant, but the four days at home were delightful, and were crowded with pleasant incidents. Our life since we returned here has probably been as pleasant as any two people ever enjoyed in the same length of time. * * * ^fJQ are housekeep ing in earnest, and to-day, thus early in our experi ence, find ourselves "without a girl," a trial to be sure, but we are doing bravely. With the help of a hardy soldier, Delie brings everything around right, William became somewhat restless, and was yesterday dismissed. IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, 301 We are living first rate ; have everything we want, and Delie sees that it comes on in good style. You ought to see her in her neat white apron superintending culi nary operations of a morning. She is charming there, as everywhere else. Our Thanksgiving box arrived the day after Thanksgiving. We were of course disappointed, but enjoyed it hugely nevertheless. It was very kind in mother. I have sent to father to get me a tub of good butter, and forward it. We expect soon to be feast ing on it. We have been to Washington to-day, making purchases — marketing — carpet — stove furniture, etc. Had for dinner, mutton chops, white potatoes, toma toes, bread and butter, and a cup of tea. * * I am Field Officer of the Day to-morrow, and DeUe will accompany me on a tour of the pickets if it is pleasant. I wish you could go, too. Our rides are mag nificent. Now, Carrie, after this poor scratch, I have hardly the face to ask you to write soon, but we want to hear from you soon, and a good, long letter. Delie sends much love. As it goes through me, you must not expect it quite all, as I am always tempted to re tain every bit of it. Nevertheless, a liberal measure is forwarded to you. I wiU not take much toU in your case. Accept much from Your affectionate brother, George. Fort Totten, D. C, December 11, 1863. Dear Father and Mother: Carrie has two or three times expressed to me a strong desire to spend the holidays in New York, and Mrs. Gardiner and famUy, when I was there, said to me they hoped she would be able to come, and have writ- 302 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. ten me since urgently requesting me to get your con sent to her visiting them at that time. I write to make the request of you to-night, that she be permitted to accept the kind invitation. She enjoys and appreciates such a trip, and she needs it. Nothing could benefit her more than to be with, even for a short time, the friends who desire to see her, and I certainly hope it wUl not be denied her. The expense cannot be much more than to remain at Troy,_ I think she will be thrice repaid by better spirits and health, and a more cheer ful application to study on her return, I have some times thought of asking your consent to her coming here during the holidays. We should like to have her immensely, I hope and trust she can have the recreation of a visit to New York at least, where they are so anxious to see her. Are we not going to see some of you this winter ? Does Mary go to St. Louis ? I hope so, and that we shaU see her on the way, * * Affectionately, your son, George, Fort Totten, D, C, December 27, 1863. Dear Carrie : We are very much surprised not to have heard from you in New York yet, supposing you to have arrived there some three or four days ago. Probably you are having so fine a time that the thought that you have a brother and sister away down here on Totten Hill never occurs to you. We are nevertheless glad that you are there, and wish you the merriest holidays that the great city can afford. Of course you would enjoy it, even if there were no city, with so pleasant friends. Although we are contented and very happy, we yet wish we were IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON, 303 with you, with all your holiday diversion, I do not know but you would envy us, could you look in on our cozy, cheerful little home. In fact I am quite sure you would, I promised you a description of our house after its completion. It must be brief. Will send you a drawing of it, the kitchen, etc. By that you will see • the size, number and arrangement of rooms. We have neat straw matting on the fioor, and buff shades for the curtains, "Our room" is handsomely grained, and looks as nice as the rooms of country cottages gener ally. The rooms are both plastered, Delie sits with me in the office when I have writing on hand, and when I have not, I with her in the other room. The soldiers have made us a good bureau, washstand and center-table, all neatly grained. A coal stove stands in the office, with pipe running through to warm the large room. When that is not sufficient, the door is left open. The outside of the house is light straw color, the cor ners and casings of a darker shade. It is a gem of a house. The kitchen, you will notice, is located conve niently in the rear. A nice cellar has been made under the house. The chaplain's establishment is nearly like ours, and stands only twelve feet from it, to the east. They expect to move in next week early. We have for a servant a colored girl. Our housekeeping goes bravely. Brother Alex, was up Christmas. Had for dinner, tur key, potatoes, tomatoes, currant jeUy, boiled pudding and pumpkin pie. Delie has made me the two nicest shirts I ever had, of handsome flannel. She takes splendid care of me, and I try to of her. We have our horseback rides as frequently as ever. Yesterday I had to go to town on busi ness, and she went with me. Besides the business, I got two loaves of brown bread, one corn, and one rye, and 304 IN THE DEPENCES OP WASHINGTON. brought them out in my overcoat pockets. To-day has been rainy and we have kept the house. Sometimes of a pleasant evening we walk to a store in the neighbor hood and buy oysters for tea or breakfast, or go to Soldiers' Home Bakery for our loaf of bread. We had a visit from the Eussians about three weeks ago. This fort was selected from among all north o the river as being the one for them to see. We fired a salute of thirteen guns, had the band here, and quite a crowd to see the strangers. Quite a day for Totten. Our regiment is filling up rapidly. We have now over sixteen hundred men. Promotions are numerous. Faith ful sergeants are now exchanging chevrons for shoulder straps, and unfaithful ones are overslaughed. * * * I wrote home immediately on receipt of your last, and learn that its effect was good, for which I was very glad. Accept much love from us both, and convey much to the dear friends at ?9. AU write us soon. As ever affectionately, George. to carrie. Fort Totten, D. C, Feb. 16, 1864. My Dear Sister: After the awful thunderbolts of wrath which for the past three months you have been hurling dovm upon me from your high Olympus, can you expect me to retain sufficient consciousness to address you intelligi bly? 0 Muse, relate the sufferings I have endured on account of the wrath of the cruel Juno, (I don't remem ber the Latin.) But I am truly thankful to be able to say that "I still live." I have heard of your conclu sion that the same man can not be both a good husband in the DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 305 and brother. I have no disposition to claim anything like perfection in any capacity; but I confess that until enlightened by your dictum, it had not occurred to me that I was a positively bad man in either capacity referred to. I am glad you did not hide your conclusion, for now I shall have no reason to think that you will require much from me. Of course, if I can be but one, I must try to be the good husband rather than brother. A letter came from Mary day before yesterday, includ ing one from Edward, which I forward to you with this. This is the first we have heard from Mary direct since our marriage. When I think of only one of us out of five being at home, it seems too bad that father and mother should be so deserted ; but you will be at home certainly in the summer, and Mary also, but I suppose there is no probability of her staying long. You write to Delie about meeting you in Vermont next summer. That is not at all probable, I am sorry to say, as we do not at all anticipate a visit there. When the hot weather comes Delie will go to New York, and in September I shall try to obtain a short leave to go for her. This is on the supposition that our regiment remains here, which is, I think, extremely doubtful. She may have to go long before the hot weather. If we should go where she could not conveniently come to me, it would be my desire that she go to Vermont and make a long vitit, but she seems to think she would want to stay in New York, as she could get news from me so much quicker. * * * The number of marriages actual and in prospect, in our circle of relatives now-a-days, is somewhat alarming. * * * fpjjg ijggt I can hope for them is that they may be as happy as I, though I doubt if they can. My Delie is a jewel. She sits beside me now reading Little 20— 306 IN THE DEPENCES OF WASHINGTON. Dorritt, looking as happy and sweet as an angel, all unconscious of these good things I am saying about her. Won't you come down and see us ? I shall hope to hear from you very soon. Your ever affectionate brother, George. Fort Totten, D. C, Feb. 17, 1864. Dear Mother: We were glad to hear from you, to-day, as we are always. We are just now having the coldest weather I have ever known here, and it keeps us indoors almost ex clusively. The winter, for the most part, has been de lightful, and we consider this extreme cold far prefer able to the mud we were having this time a year ago. The cold happens in a very convenient time for Delie, as her Dick has a sore back, and could not be ridden now, if it were ever so pleasant. Her indisposition at the time she wrote Lilly passed off very soon, and she is now perfectly well, with the exception of something which appears like an approaching cold. I hope the dear girl may keep well. She has been making a hand kerchief for you, which I enclose. I am engaged now-a- days on a general court-martial sitting at this fort, which occupies three or four hours per day of my time. It is much pleasanter, I assure you, than riding in and out of Washington through the mud, as I did last winter. We have now five officers to each of our batteries, and it is now one of the best-officered batteries in the regi ment. * * * Let me say something in confidence : It is with considerable difficulty that I can keep my system in good working order, with the active habits of my present occupation. I am becoming more and more convinced that the sedentary manner of a lawyer's life IN THE DEPENCES OF WASHINGTON. 307 will very much compromise my health, and I have been debating seriously, of late, if it is not my duty to adopt an occupation more conducive to the physical man. I want to hear from you and father on the matter, soon ; Talk to me freely. Do not say anything of it, as it is matter that pertains to nobody but ourselves. The ham would be very acceptable, and I am very much obliged to you for thinking of it, and all the other things you are going to send us. We will hold ourselves in readiness for the box at any moment. How I wish Delie and I might pay you a visit, in that cozy, pleasant home ! We think and talk of you frequently, and wonder how you get along, with only one of us children at home. It would be very pleasant to have either of our mothers visit us, as you suggest. We have very good accommodations, namely : that little cot on which I used to sleep, with its nice, hair mat tress. Will either come ? — that's the question. Will not father give us a call, on his way to or from the west ? I would like to talk over that matter of business with him, as well as to show him our home. My Delie has fallen asleep on the little cot, and I am reminded that the hour of retiring is at hand. Please send my photograph album, with all the card photo graphs that belong to me. I am as ever, your affectionate son, George. Fort Totten, D. C, March 14, 1864. My Dear Father : It struck me that you were inclined, in your last, to use a little ridicule in reference to my suggestion about a change of occupation. That seems hardly fair. I hope IN THE DEPENCES OP WASHINGTON. you have sufficient confidence in me to believe that I do not entertain ideas of so serious a step without the very strongest reasons, and that I shall not decide' on taking it without giving it the most thorough consideration. If any change is made, I shall choose the mercantile pro fession. I have had a little experience, which, with my general education and knowledge of the world, will, I think, enable me to take hold of the profession handily. If I cannot be well physically, I cannot be happy, and I certainly fear that, with the sedentary habits of a lawyer, I cannot be a healthy man. Added to fears of dyspepsia are those for my eyes, which are by no means strong. I shall be in the army a year and a half more. Before the time comes to enter civil life again, I shall be able to decide what is best. I shall always be most grateful for your advice and counsel. It would be very pleasant if we could all settle in the same city by and by. I still retain a preference for St. Louis, and should like to live there, either as a lawyer or merchant. This whole matter I should want, of course, kept in the limits of our own family. Things here at Totten are going on about as usual. An incident occurred the other day which gave us a little excitement. Three men deserted from Battery K, and were caught, only two days after they left, by our patrols. Getting a hint of the place where they obtained citizens' clothes, I stajrted one morning, accompanied by Capt. M., Lieut. S., and eight or ten armed men, for Maryland. We soon reached the sus pected locality, which is only four miles out, posted sen tinels all around the place, and made search. In the servants' quarters we found nearly all the clothing we were after. All the suspected then at home were arrested, and the guard was left to arrest others when they came in. The place is a very fine one, and belongs to a Mr. IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 309 C. — the house large, of brick, with spacious grounds in front. Two of the parties whom we arrested are to be turned over to the civil court of Maryland for trial. The sickness which has been prevailing among our recruits is now rapidly diminishing. Mr. and Mrs. Little are in New England. They have been gone now ten days, and are expected back soon. Our household affairs are going on swimmingly, except we can't get help in the kitchen. I find that about the only trial thus far is housekeeping. My wife is more precious to me every day — always thoughtful, kind, cheerful, and perfectly contented. She makes my life a new and different thing from what it used to be. She has been perfectly well since she came here, with one or two slight exceptions. She is in Washington to-day, visiting a lady friend from N. Y. I shall ride in for her this evening. The house always seems very lonely in her absence. The box we got from home the other day was truly splendid. Every article in it was of the best. It seems to me the ham is the best I ever saw — much better for me than the western cured. Mother must miss so many of her jars, and I should like to send them back if oppor-. tunity offers. The coffee we both like, and hope we shall get some more of it some time. I wish we might have a visit from you and mother this spring, and Lilly, too, of course. You know May and June are the pleasantest months here. Grass is already growing green. The court-martial I have been on for upwards of a month has adjourned. We tried about fifteen cases of desertion, principally from the 2d Pa. ArtUlery. There are very few cases in our regiment. The three spoken of above are father, son and son-in- law — all French. The wife of the old man is here. She started from Vermont as soon as she heard of her bus- 310 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. band's crime. I see her now, standing out in the grounds talking with her friends, who are grubbing stumps under a bayonet. When caught they had nineteen watches on their persons, which they had bought of their fellows on credit. The crime had evidently been intended for some time, and was for the purpose of making money. * * The box of doughnuts received by Mr. Eedington was greatly relished. We were exceedingly obliged, as we always are for every act of kindness. We think our friends are a little better than anybody's else. Tell Lilly she must answer Delie's letter, as, if she does not, Delie will not think she was glad to get it. Please write us soon and often. We get very little news from Mary and Ed. Would like you to send their letters. With much love from us both, 1 am your affectionate son, George. Fort Lincoln, D. C, April 16, 1864. My Dear Mother : Yours to Delie, enclosing Mary's, came to-day, and was, as usual, very welcome. It will give me the greatest pleasure to answer "soon," both as a matter of kindness and duty, for whenever I can do you a kindness, it is to me a duty. I trust I shall never lose the gratitude I owe to my devoted mother, nor ever forget to contribute to her happiness when I have opportunity. It seems to me that your loneliness must be trying. How we wish we were there this very night, and could make you a good long visit. Did father expect to stay so long when he left ? I hope he wUl be home soon, stopping a day or two to see us. Delie wrote you, I think, just after we got our orders to move. We left Totten two or three days after, bag and in the defences OF WASHINGTON. 311 baggage — a parting not without sadness, for there we had first met, there had been our first home, a pleasant little home, full of happiness and joy. The thought that my successor (being a profane and intemperate man) would soon be holding his revels in our dear little room, conse crated before to love and prayer, added another pang. But the ties binding us to a camp residence of six months are not like those binding us to a real home, and so we broke them, and are now, in three weeks, domiciliated quite pleasantly and happily in a new abode. You remember Fort Lincoln, where I was stationed in the faU of 1862, when I was taken sick. Do you remem ber the large house ? It is Post Headquarters, and we live in it. It is nearly as large as your house, was a nice residence once, but is now old and somewhat used up and dirty, by having been occupied by officers since the war commenced. Still we have a very pleasant room, and should be unwilling to exchange it for the little house at Totten for a summer residence. It will be much cooler than that, having a large piazza, and an abundance of shade trees around it. The view is fine from here. We see the Capitol dome, a portion of the city, navy yard, east branch of the Potomac, many of the fortications, and a large tract of country. Our camp and fort were found in a very filthy and dis orderly condition, but are now improving very rapidly. Fort Lincoln has considerably the largest armament of any fort in the brigade. We have been somewhat unset tled by the thousand rumors of late, about our regiment joining the Army of the Potomac. I consider the matter entirely uncertain. I should not be surprised at any time to move, and am preparing my things, so that in case it does come, I may be ready to start on short notice. 312 IN THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. I have Batteries B and L as a garrison. The compa nies are not so good as my two at Totten, but can be made much better than at present. Major Eedington called and took dinner day before yesterday. * * * We are well to-night, and hope our dear mother and little sister are. We have so large a house that it does seem as though we ought to see some of our friends here. Chaplain Little had a meeting in one of the barracks this evening. He is still at Totten. With much love we are, as ever. Yours very affectionately, George and Delie. Fort Lincoln, D. C, April 18, 1864. Dear Sister Mary. Yours of March 28th was gladly received. * * * On the night of the 25th ult. we suddenly got news that the regiment with which we had been associated was ordered to move early the next morning, and that we were to garrison the whole line of eight forts. This was about midnight, and the time when important military orders generally come. I was assigned to Fort Lincoln, the extreme right of the brigade, and must be at my new Post by eight o'clock next morning. I was there accord ingly, and in three or four days moved Delie and our effects over. We were sorry to leave our dear little home at Totten on many accounts, but now think the change has been for our advantage. We have a large house, with a piazza in front of both stories, surrounded by plenty of shade trees. The view is pleasant, compris ing the Capitol dome, a part of the city, Fairfax Sem inary, many of the forts in Virginia, the east branch of the Potomac, find other objects of interest. This is IN THE DEPENCES OF WASHINGTON. 313 the same fort near which our regiment first encamped, and where I was stationed when taken sick. The fort is a very important one, commanding the Bladensburg turnpike, and the Baltimore and Ohio Eailroad. The house we occupy was the residence of a wealthy family before the war, and is larger than we care for, but better so than smaller. My chief object in writing to night is to ask you to come and help us occupy it. We very much want you and father to come this way and make us a visit. We have plenty of room, it is a pleasant season of the year. Congress is in session, and you may never have another opportunity to see any thing of the army. Besides, I want to see father on business and talk with him. I certainly hope you can come and see us. Major Eedington is in the city. We had a pleasant call from him two or three days ago, and we invited him to come out as often as possible. It is uncertain where he will be stationed— perhaps in Washington. Tell Aunt Louise I have not forgotten my long stand ing debt to her. She hears from me through you, however, and I presume she will make allowances, as I do not and cannot write much. I think of her and all the rest none the less, and wish every day I could step in and receive the hearty welcome that all their friends are sure of. Many rumors have prevailed about our regiment going down to the army of the Potomac. All is uncer tain, of course, but it does not look as though we should go immediately, at any rate. Delie sends much love, and wants to see you. We should be delighted to have you bring on the whole family. Write soon. Love to all. Your affectionate brother, George. 314 IN THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. May 9. (A postscript.) No, I can add nothing to what my Delie has said. I have just came in from a tedious drill, and need a little time for breath. Do you see how unsteady my hand is ? We are sad at the thought of parting. Nothing but a solemn duty to my country could compel me to do it. But I must go, and share the dangers of the thousands of brave men who are bleeding for the great cause. I will try to do my duty, and may God help me, and bless my darling wife whom I leave behind, and all the others so dear to me. Mother, adopt her into the warmest corner of your heart, and be always her unflinching friend. You love me — love her as much and more, for the love she has borne me, and for the tenderness and devotion she has never for a moment ceased to show me. We may not move for two or three weeks, and may be off before this reaches you. Good-bye. Write us often. Ever yours, George. From the letters to his wife I have taken little more than the mere record of the days. "You must select," she says, "but how you will be able to, I know not. The reading will nearly break your heart." The outpourings of his love to her are too tender for these pages, but the extracts which I have made afford a continuous journal of the last three months of his Ufe. WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. 315 TO HIS WIFE. Belle Plains Landing, Va., May 12, 1864. * * I have just turned in for the night under a shelter tent, and it is raining hard. Oh ! how lonely — how cheer less. * * * The trip was successful, and the wounded are pouring in here by hundreds. Good news from the front — Eichmond is confidently reported captured. We expect to march to-morrow morning to report to General Meade. I do not suppose I shall be able to take my valise. Have lived on what you so kindly provided for me this morning. * * * Fredericksburg, Va., Friday Evening, May 13. * * * We struck camp this morning, and have marched to Fredericksburg. We lie to-night just north of the Eappahanock, in a very good location, with Burn- side's battlefield in view. To have seen the battle must have been grand. The country must have been delightful before the war. The only incident of note on the march was meeting nine thousand rebel prisoners, of whom we of course had a complete view. They were divided off into regiments of about eight hundred, I should judge, each coinmanded by a Federal officer of rank, and the column flanked by a strong guard. An ambulance led the column, containing two brigadiers, one colonel and other officers of rank. The brigadiers were General E. Johnson and G. Stuart. Then followed four hundred other officers, and the thousands of enlisted men. They all wore the butternut cloth, and the contrast between our blue clad columns and theirs, as the two met, was marked. The band, which was with my battalion (for we march by battalions), struck up "Yankee Doodle" just as the rebels began to pass us, and it called out their 316 WITH the ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. indignation in various speeches, such as, "play us Bum- side at Fredericksburg," "Hooker at Chancellorville" and "Seymour in Florida." They were resolute looking men, and seemed defiant. We arrived at our present position at about six this evening. My first care was for the horses, and I went with C, to get them a good place. After they were cared for, I took the piece of soap you wrapped up for me, and a towel, and finding a Uttle brook near by, had a bath, for the first time since leaving Fort Lincoln. Then I took out the package of coffee which your kind hand had put in for me, and made a splendid cup of that fine beverage. My supper was of corn bread, (the same you provided), "hard-tack," one doughnut and a little dried beef. I shall soon have eaten all you gave me, and perhaps it is better, as it chokes me and takes away my appetite to see things you have pre pared. * * * I am in a shelter tent again to-night, and expect to be every night, as there is not another style in the regiment. Officers occupy the same sort with the humblest "private. We had only one wagon for the whole regiment, and officers brought no valises. They were left under guard at Belle Plains Landing. I brought in my saddle-bags a shirt, two pairs of socks, handker chiefs, two towels, and one or two other little neces saries. A funny incident occurred this evening in con nection with my writing. In looking for paper, I could find nothing of it, and concluded I had mislaid it or left it in the valise, so I tore off what scraps I could from the documents I had about me, and was going to write on a dozen or less of slips, numbering them, when I joyfully found the desired paper in one of my pockets. I carry it folded in envelopes. * * * ;^y fable is my diary, and my chair, the ground. How glad I was to learn that Arthur would stay, though I want to see him WitH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. 3l7 as soon as possible. Mr. Eedington and Chase were very kind in offering to assist you in any way in their power. I asked Edward to go out and remain during the night, if possible. * * I could not bring my Testament, but my soul wiU be in almost constant com munion with our God. * * * Sabbath Morning, May 15. No opportunity has yet presented itself to send this. We marched clear up to the front yesterday, and en camped. A fight was raging as we came up, which ceased at dark. We are going into the Second Brigade, Second Division, Sixth Corps — the old Vermont Brigade. We may be in an engagement to-day. We shall maneuver by battalion. * * * Monday Morning, May 16. We are still in the same place as when I closed last evening. We are the extreme left regiment of the Army of the Potomac. There is a pause, and we do not know how soon a movement will be made. Our manner of life is, to use an army expression, very rough. We do not take off our clothes at night, and lie on the ground with only shelter-tents between us and the sky ; we generally prepare our own food, toasting our jneat in small pieces on sticks, and boiling our coffee in cups over the out-door fires. If we could live as well as the privates used to at Fort Totten and Fort Lincoln, we should be in luxury, compared with our present condition. * * * Our food is hard bread, salt pork, fresh pork, coffee and sugar. Thus far I am perfectly well. I told you, I believe, that we are organized into battalions, and shall maneuver as such, so that B., H., and myself are acting colonels. Colonel Warner supervises the three battalions, under General Grant. Captain Buxton is my acting field officer. 318 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. Lieutenant Glazier, my adjutant. The latter quarters with me, and is exceedingly pleasant and efficient. With us are brigaded the Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Vermont. The brigade is commanded by Brigadier- General L. A. Grant, of Vermont, the division by General Neill, and the corps by Major-General Wright. Spottsylvania County, Va., Thursday afternoon. May 19. * * * jjq^ a, word from you yet, but I trust in God you are well. Tuesday evening at nine o'clock we received orders for an immediate movement. We were off in fifteen minutes, and marched fast all night from the extreme left to the extreme right of the army, and at a little past four yesterday morning were formed in line of battle in a dense woods. No sooner formed, than rebel shell began to burst all around and among us. We advanced a short distance into a rifle pit, where we were protected. Here the First and Second Battalions were moved to the right, and we did not see them again. Very soon we were advanced into another line of rifle pits, where one man of the Second Vermont was killed, and two or three of our men were wounded. Very soon the order forward was again given, and we charged over in excellent order, in the very front line of pits. You must remember that the rebels were not in sight all this time ; they were firing from a masked battery, and their sharpshooters were behind trees. We were now out of the woods, on the same ground which was fought over last week, and two lines of the pits spoken of were thrown up by the rebels themselves, so that we were on the wrong side of them; but we were mighty glad to get even a wrong side of a rifle pit. The WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. 319 shells were now playing aroundus very fast. The men were well disposed, and I was just preparing to get into a safe place myself, when my noble adjutant. Glazier, who stood near me, was hit by a cruel shell, and his left arm torn almost completely off. It was a horrible wound. With my own hands I put a tour niquet on above it, and detailed a corporal and four men to take him off the field. He turned to the colonel just as he was leaving, and said, "Colonel, I hope you will get the victory." In less than half an hour the colonel himself, while standing near me with drawn sword, and just preparing to advance the battalion over the rifle pit into the open field beyond, was wounded by a sharpshooter, the ball passing in behind the ear and coming out in the middle of the back of the neck. The vital parts escaped, and it proved only a flesh wound. He was taken off the field, but in three or four hours came back with his wound dressed. At about one p. m., after experiencing a second smart shelling, we were ordered to withdraw from the rifle- pit over an eminence to the left. Here we saw that the whole forces engaged were being withdrawn. We were massed with many thousands, and all made coffee and took some hard-tack. If it was a battle, nothing could have been gained; if it was intended merely as a reconnoissance, it may have been successful. I do not know. I did not come out satisfied with the day's woi-k. About fifteen of our men were wounded, but none killed. They behaved like veterans, and earned much credit. We were under fire, more or less severe at times, for about eight hours. After dinner we marched back to the left and took an advanced position from our old one, and this morning at three o'clock we advanced still further into the woods, and have been all day en- S20 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAO. trenching. On the march to the left yesterday I stopped at the hospital and saw Glazier. His arm had been nicely amputated, and he was on an ambulance for Fredericksburg, in good spirits. Dr. Park said my tourniquet saved his Ufe. Colonel Warner's wound be gan to be more troublesome, and he left this morning for Washington. The chaplain came Tuesday evening, and I was rejoiced to see him. Warren's corps is on our right, Burnside's qn the left. On the right, artil lery firing has just commenced quite vigorously. An attack has been expected somewhat on our line. It may come, and may not. I have told you all the war news. * * * On the North Santa Anna Eiver, Tuesday Morning, May 24. * * * Almost incessant marching has prevented my writing before. The labor and hardships this army has undergone for the past week, have been very, very severe. We have marched all night two of the nights, and there is not much rest in the day. When we come to a halt we lie right down, spreading our tents on the ground for a bed and throwing our blankets over us. After breathing a prayer for you and myself too, I go into a sound sleep, and so remain until awakened, which is generally as early as four in the morning. We generaUy move early. The last time I wrote we were entrenching. After that we threw up another line of works, and fell back into them, leaving a picket in the old line. This was Saturday, and was preparatory to the flank movement the army has been making. Major Hunsden, Captain Walker and some other offi cers were out with a large picket from our regiment, and about twilight they were attacked. A battery on WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOl^AC. 321 the ground where the regiment lay, in the rear Une of works I spoke of, supported them. The rebels were re pulsed handsomely, with the estimated loss of five hundred kiUed and wounded and twenty prisoners. Our loss was very light. Two were kiUed from Battery D, of our regiment, and a few slightly wounded from other batteries. * * * WeU, after the picket fight, our corps started Sunday evening on the road to Eichmond, bringing up the rear. We marched aU night, arriving at Guiney's Station Monday morning. Hancock had started the day before us, and the plan was to get by the rebels and out- flank them, but they marched as fast as we, and have turned up on our frOnt on the south side of the North Anna. Much has been accom plished, however, by the movement. We are now only thirty miles from Eichmond. Yesterday we made a forced march, and reached the river at evening, just as a severe engagement was closing up, in which our ene mies were repulsed. We formed line of battle and bivouaced, crossed the North Anna at three and a half this morning, and now lie in line of battle in front of the enemy, expecting an engagement at any time. * * * Some cannonading has sprung up on the left. This corps has just received assurance that it will be allowed to rest to-day, if it is a possible thing. Squads of rebel prisoners are passing us from the front every few minutes ; I think I have seen seventy-five pass this morning. It is said they are giving themselves up in considerable numbers. * * * We hear that Butler is going to join us here. If so, I hope to see dear Grahame and Colonel Duncan. It will be so good to see anybody who knows my darling. I hunted all over the Ninth Corps the other day to find Dr. Cooper, but did not succeed. —21 322 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. In each of your letters, besides the envelope, I think you had better send me a half sheet of this sort of paper. I have seen nothing of my valise yet, and pre sume I shall not. You have no idea how dirty and rough the officers and men all look. 0, what sacrifices this army is making for the country; what hardships it is enduring. If our regiment were back it would never say "front" again. As a matter of stern duty only they are willing to be here, but for no other consideration. I wish you would preserve the good, intelligent news paper accounts of this campaign, as it will be very in teresting for me to look them over in future. How I was hurried off — no time to talk about any thing. But we had time to commend each other earnestly to God, did we not, darling? He will be with us, Tuesday Afternoon. * * * rjijjg regiment still lies quiet, the firing on the left continues, Hancock is reported driving the enemy. After dinner (hard-tack and chicken) I went down to the river and took a rousing bath, and did my washing — underflannels, stockings, towel, and a linen collar. After my shirt, drawers and socks were washed and nicely hung on the bushes to dry, I happened to think that I had washed them only on one side, so down I pulled them, turned them wrong side out and improved their appear ance considerably. They are all now hanging on my tent drying, except the collar, which is on. It is. the only one I have, but they are not of much account here. Hatch just passed by with a couple of canteens on his shoulders, and I called him up and asked him how he stood the march. He has endured it well. It seemed good to talk with him — so like old times. May he be restored to his wife again, and I to mine. 0, how deep WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC 323 and fervent is my love for you this afternoon, and I feel peaceful, trustful, fuU of faith in Christ, that he wUl mer cifully take care of us both. Are you cheerful and trust ful, dearest ? You must be, I am bearing everything in the shape of hardship and deprivation, but am stUl happy in the thought that it will some day be over, and I shall be restored to my own darling, I never shall attempt to paint to you on paper the suft'erings and horrors of this war. It will be enough for me to try to recount them after it. is over. May our country soon be delivered from the awful ordeal. What do you hear from my dear home, from Carrie, from Alex ? How I pity him, poor fellow ! I can thor oughly sympathize with him. What from Grahame? Since I spoke of him I have heard that Butler is not expected to join us, so I may not see him. What from Mr. McNamee? You will write him. Eemember me kindly. How are mother, Alice and Gegie ? Much love to them. God bless all our dear friends. They will all be kind to you, Delie, wUl they not ? Wednesday, May 26. We are in the same place as yesterday, but expect to move at any moment. Lieutenant-Colonel Benton was taken sick last evening and I am in command. * * * Arthur, also, is not well. We are now near Oxford, and not far from Hanover Junction. Eeports are all favora ble. A great many rebels are giving themselves up. They say their men are starved, wearied and discour aged. We are hopeful of marching to Eichmond before long. How much news you will have to tell me, darling, and what would I not give to get a letter from you this minute. I hope for one in a day or two. * * * 324 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC I shaU try to write mother very soon, and she will be glad to hear from me direct. I hope you will see her this summer. Prince and Dick are pretty well. I have bought a second-hand saddle for Dick. We have to pack our second horses with oats and mess supplies, and have them led. Where are all our rides? How delightful they used to be. Three weeks ago this evening, we rode to Bladensburg, and searched for the miU, you remem ber. We will have some more of them by and by, wUl we not? Sergeant Gavegan has just given mg three roses. Any such thing makes me think of her who is sweeter than a million roses. * * * God has been very good to us. In Him is our trust. Let it be firm. All will be well. * * * Thursday, May 26. * * * Yesterday, about eleven a. m., we advanced across the Virginia Central Eailroad at Noel's, and formed into line of battle on Warren's right flank. He was advancing, but our corps was not brought into the engage ment. At evening we pitched tents and entrenched. A hard rain fell towards morning. The report is that the enemy is in strong force in front, and strongly entrenched from Hanover Junction to Hanover Court House. We are destroying a considerable section of the Virginia Cen tral Eailroad. Another flank movement is anticipated, as we are warned to be ready for an all night's march, and perhaps all day to-morrow. We may march to the left, down on to the Pamunkey. I think it is better to turn their strongholds than to try to carry them with great sacrifice of life. Do you not think the army has made quite substantial progress since the fifteenth ? It was a great thing to turn their works at Spottsylvania Court House, before which we fought yesterday week. WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. 325 It is two weeks this morning, darling, since we parted — a long, dreary two weeks. But let us look on the sunny side as much as possible. I am safe and well thus far, and hope you may be kept the same. God is good ; in Him we will trust. * * » j hope for an opportunity of sending this soon. Shall try to write mother a part of a letter this afternoon. Pray God for me, dearest, earnestly. * * * Saturday evening, 7 o'clock. May 28. * * * No opportunity to send this yet. We struck camp night before last; re-crossed the North Anna; marched all night in mud ; marched all day yesterday, and encamped north of the Pamunky. This morning we crossed the Pamunky on a pontoon, and encamped about noon on the heights south of the river, about three or four miles northwest of Hanover Town and fifteen or eighteen miles from Eichmond. We count it a great thing to get so near Eichmond with so little fighting. This is the second flank movement Grant has executed since we came. He is outmaneuvering them. It is the opinion here that Lee will not fight this side of Eichmond. We had a terrible march. I never knew anything of fatigue before — and our poor men ! My heart has bled for them all through their hardships. We have a delight ful camping ground, and are entrenched. The chaplain is better. There is prospect of a good night's rest. * * * God bless you ! I wish, 0, how earnestly ! to get a letter from you. Several are on the way, of course. Sabbath afternnon. May 29. * * * In the same place as yesterday, and enjoy ing a delightful day of rest. This is one of the most beautiful days I ever saw ; bright and sunny, but cool. It is doing our men a world of good. I was up at half- 326 WITH THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. past three, and had my battalion under arms, as the enemy was reported in force in our front, but no dem onstration has been made. Day before yesterday I picked up a colored servant. * * * How grateful your letters will be ! It is reported that a mail is near at hand. It wUl bring me several from you, will it not ? 0, how wel come they will be ! I am sorely tried here, every day ; (names four men) are gambling near my tent, on this holy afternoon. * * * Monday, May 30th. We marched at three this morning, and are now two miles from Hanover Court House. An opportunity has just presented itself for sending this. * * * to the dear ones at home. South op North Anna Eiver, near Hanover Junc, Va., Thursday p. m.. May 26, 1864. Father, Mother, and Sisters : I have been very sorry not to write you before ; but since leaving Washington the campaign has been so very active and fatiguing that I have only found time to write my darling wife occasionally. We left Washington two weeks ago to-day, on a three-hours' warning. My part ing with Delie was very sad. 0, mother, pray for her and for me, and always be just as good to her as you have been to me. We arrived at Belle Plains land ing that day and encamped. We have had nothing but little shelter tents, and have to transport them our selves, the same as the men. The regiment has not a wagon, and this is right. Trains are terrible burden to an army, — and we have so many of them now that I wonder we can do anything. Valises we were obliged to leave at Belle Plains, and consequently we have no thing except what we carry on our persons, in saddle- WITil THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 327 bags, and in a haversack, AU our provisions we have to carry, also, but these are very simple— hard bread, salt pork, coffee, sugar, and sometimes a ham. Fresh beef is driven along with the army, and we have enough of that ; the trouble is, it has to be eaten so soon after it is kiUed. We left Belle Plains the 13th and marched to Fredericksburg, and on the 14th joined the Army of the Potomac. On the 15th we were assigned to the old Vermont Brigade— Second Brigade, Second Division, Sixth Corps ; brigade commander, Brigadier-General L, A. Grant ; division commander, Brigadier-General Neill ; corps commander, Major-General Wright, Our regiment is divided into three battalions, each of which acts as a separate regiment, I command the Third Battalion, consisting of Batteries A, B, I, G, — about 500 aggregate. We were in our first battle Wednesday, May 18. The regiment behaved nobly, and got much credit. We were under a severe shelling and sharpshooting fire. My bat talion was under much the heaviest fire of the three, and lost more in wounded than the other two together ; none killed in the regiment. Colonel Warner, while standing near me, was wounded in the neck by a sharp shooter, and has gone to Washington, leaving the lieu tenant-colonel in command. My adjutant. Lieutenant N. N. Glazier, of Battery A — a noble fellow — while stand ing very near me, had his left arm blown nearly off, by a shell. It was a horrid wound. I immediately put a tourniquet on, which, the surgeon says, saved his life. It is a great satisfaction to know that I could be of so much service to him. We went into this action at about five o'clock in the morning, and were under fire until noon. About twelve men were wounded in my battalion. The secret of our not losing more was, that we were in rifle-pits the greater portion of the time. 328 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. The next fight we saw was Saturday evening, the 21st, a sort of picket fight, in which we lost two killed and a few wounded, and probably kiUed and wounded from three to five hundred of the enemy. This was the last night in the region of Spottsylvania Court House, as that evening commenced the forced march which has brought us to the North Anna, within thirty miles of Eichmond. In the engagement attending the crossing we did not participate, as we brought up the rear. Another flank movement is in immediate contempla tion, and we expect to march all this night, I think to the left, down on to the Pamunkey. If Grant can beat Lee by maneuvering, and thus save slaughter, it wiU suit the army and country much better. The slaughter and suffering in this campaign have been awful. The marching has been very severe, especially on our men, who are in a measure raw. Our manner of life is very rough, and anything but agreeable. Nothing but the most solemn sense of duty could keep me here. When we stop at night we are generally too tired to put up even the poor shelter of our little tents, and so we lie down under the open sky — sometimes in the rain. I have my two horses along. Dick I use as a pack-horse • for carrying oats for both, mess things, etc. We have no hay. Chaplain Little is here, and is company for me. He and my adjutant, Lieut. Lewis, tent with me. You don't know how much I think and pray for all my dear friends, and I hope they do for me, that I may be an accepted child of God, and may be preserved through all these dangers, privations and hardships, and returned to those I love so well. Mother, write to me often. All of you write to me — and write to my precious wife, 0 comfort her as best you may. Perhaps you know how dear she is to me. 0, mother, always love her — always WITH THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 329 be kind to her — assure me that you will always be her never-failing friend. She has loved me more than I deserve. Never has she spoken a word, or done an act, or looked a look, that was not all love. My wants were all anticipated. I should very much like her to visit you this summer, and she would also be much pleased to do so, if it did not take her so much further from me. It would take a day longer for news, and a day longer for her to come to me. Perhaps, however, she will conclude to go after all. God bless and com fort her wherever she is. I hope she will look on the hopeful side, and keep cheerful and healthy, and trust in God. Sabbath ajternoon. May 29. Dear Mother: Thursday night we marched all night and all Friday. Yesterday morning we crossed the Pamunkey on a pontoon bridge, and at noon encamped on the heights, about two miles from the river. We are about four miles northwest of Hanover Town, and about fifteen from Eichmond. This second great flank movement has been very successfully accomplished, and we are satisfied that we are under a skillful leader. The march was very severe, and through it all I was near dropping down with fatigue. We have a delightful camp now, and this beautiful Sabbath is indeed prov ing a day of rest to us. The country in this region is very fine, but thinly settled and poorly improved. Churches are very few, and I have not seen a school- house. The male population are generally absent from their homes, and the females bitter against us, though one gave me a glass of milk the other day, at the house where Stonewall -Jackson died. The houses are homely and rudely buUt, the agricultural implements 330 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. clumsy, and civilization generaUy is at least a quarter of a century behind New England, I have not received a particle of mail since leaving Fort Lincoln, and am very anxious to hear from my darling wife and from you all. Do you hear yet from Ed,? I shall try to write to Carrie to-day. Do you write to my Delie? Tell me, mother, how often, 0, if you love me now, do everything in your power to comfort her and make her happy. Shall send this by the first mail that leaves. Your affectionate, loving son and brother, George. to his wife. Tuesday morning. May 31. Seven delightful letters from you came last evening. Oh ! what a treat ! I wish I could stop to write you half my joy at receiving them, but a mail goes this minute. Be cheerful, and trust in God. I sent a long letter yesterday. We are in line of battle, twelve miles from Eichmond, and well. I slept soundly under an apple tree last night. Oh ! what a blessing the letters were ! My battalion goes on a reconnoissance this morn ing. * * Cold Harbor, Sundag June 5, 1864. * * I have experienced a bitter disappointment this morning. The second mail for the regiment, and quite a large one, came, and not a solitary word from you. * * What a feast your seven dear letters, received last Monday night, was ! I read them all over yesterday afternoon, and shall do so again to-day. * * But, darling, your anxiety must be buoyed up by a lively hope and a calm trust. I expect you to labor with God without ceasing, for me, and then trust His WITH THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 331 promises. Pray to Him that my sins may all be for given, and that I may be thought worthy, through His Son, to be granted the blessing of a return to her whom He has kindly given to be my life companion. * * But pray, too, dearest, that we may both be prepared for whatever His holy will has in store for us. For nearly a week my duties have been so arduous' and active that I have only been able to write you a hasty word when the mails have gone, Tuesday morning. May 31, we went out on a reconnoissance, and were ex posed to a fire of sharpshooters during the day. At evening we made an advance, and established a skir mish line very near the enemy — only two hundred or three hundred yards from them. Here we had a lively time till nine or ten o'clock. One was killed and twelve wounded. In the night we withdrew, and formed a new skirmish line further from the enemy, but where we could cover a movement of the corps which was going on. At early morning, Wednesday, the 1st, we marched, bringing up the rear, and at evening reached the vicin ity where we have since remained, in the very teeth of the enemy, having for the most part had the protection of earthworks. The First Battalion participated in a charge on the evening of the first, when they suffered severely — over one hundred killed and wounded. * * The two brightest officers of A are now disabled. My God ! is it necessary that this generation suffer more, or this enlightened age be disgraced by such continued butch ery of men ! May the end come quickly. Tell Gra hame not to feel that it is his absolute duty to enter the army or navy. His reasons for remaining at home are strong, and he knows nothing of the hardships of an active campaign, neither need he wish to. * * 332 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. I have read the ninety-first psalm, and trust its com forting promises. I have this afternoon copied it into my diary. My thoughts are with you almost every mo ment. I dream almost every night of seeing those beaming eyes, and oft in the midst of those happy dreams I am awakened by the rattling of a thousand muskets, or the roar of the murderous cannon. What an awful leap, from sweet thoughts of home and of her who is home's chief ornament and attraction, to the murder of the battle-field! * * A letter has just come. I knew it must have got astray. It makes me so joyous, I thought I must' tell you, even before I opened the treasure. * * Let us never forget the Giver of our great happiness. Our first duty is unto Him. He will comfort us in our separation, preserve us from danger, and in His good time restore us to each other. Let us trust Him, and be His faithful children. * * How different your position and mine, this Holy Sabbath. My battalion is in one of the rear lines of battle, directly in front of our wicked enemy. We are behind a breastwork, and comparatively safe, though the random bullets fall among us quite fre quently. One of my men has been shot thorough the head to-day, and his agony and groans were awful in dying. The skirmishing between the front lines has been quite sharp all day, but no general engagement has taken place. Occasionally a cannon thunders. I am in my little tent, sitting on the ground. My meals have been, breakfast, fried pork, hard bread and tea; dinner, a sort of beef stew, seasoned with salt pork. It is now six o'clock. We shall have hard bread, fried pork and tea for supper. We expect to move on the front line to-night. with the army of the potomac. 333 Cold Harbor, Va., Monday evening, June 6. I am literally in a hole in the ground. Last evening we were moved forward into the very front line of trenches, only two hundred yards from the enemy. Being so close, we have to be down deep. The hole I occupy, togeth ^ with Captain M. and Lieutenant L., is about eight feet long and five feet deep. There has been a constant pop ping between our line and the enemy's all day, but with little effect on either side, though three of our men have been wounded. The bullets generaUy pass harmlessly above our heads, though their sound is anything but pleasant. These pits are on the identical ground of the fighting of last Wednesday and Thursday, and it is so close to the enemy that our dead have not yet been buried. There are numbers of them on my front — a horrid sight. I am going to send out a party after dark to try to bury them. Your loving letter of May 31 reached me this after noon. * * Eemember, . . . . , how nothing but the sternest duty could keep me from you a day. If I felt that I could leave the army to-night honor ably, it would be the happiest moment of my life. * * God grant our country a speedy relief from her awful agony, and an abiding peace after her terrible suffer ings. Write me constantly. The mails will be regular now, I think. * * Cold Harbor, Va., Wednesday evening, June 8, 1864. It is now twilight. I have been resting all day, as also have our boys. We were relieved from the front trenches last evening, after forty-eight hours occupation. I wrote you No. ten from there. The greatest features 334 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. of yesterday was a truce, from six to eight o'clock last evening. All firing had ceased, and the flag went out on the front of my battalion. Two officers from each side, at six o'clock, were seen to start from their re spective line of works. Our flag consisted of a white handkerchief fixed flag-like to a little staff — theirs, a white handkerchief simply held up in the hand. They approached, touched caps, talked five minutes, and sep arated. Parties were out immediately on our front to complete the burial of our dead, and the troops from both sides rose up from the works, skook out their blankets, stretched themselves, looked, talked, and rested from strife. I could not help wishing, as the two flags approached each other, that the good men of both sec tions might come together and, by reason, put an end to this fraternal slaughter. At eight o'clock aU retired behind the works, to watch and wait the opportunity of destroying each other's lives. We had no casualties yesterday, and we are back now in the same pit where we lay three days ago. * * Our work for a week has not been so wearing as before, and I am feeling very well. I wrote Carrie yesterday. Send me any let ters of interest you get from friends. Arthur is well. He was with Captain Frost when he died. Friday, June 10. The afternoon is yours. Last evening we marched up into the front lines again and are lying to-day quietly in a shaded pit. Our dinner of hard tack, ham, coffee and a pickle is over, and I have just washed, brushed my clothes a little, and l^in down on my blankets. Things are comparatively quiet between the contending lines, and we expect no disturbance, though here it is hard to tell what an hour may bring forth. I wish you had a photograph of me and my surroundings as I lie WITH THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 335 here in my underground fort. You can't know or imagine my circumstances or appearance. * * * Delie, God has been too kind to us in the past, to warrant us in doubting him now. From the first how he has blessed us. Not a plan was frustrated. * * * Now the same kind Father sees fit to try us. He has torn us asunder, but it is for some good and wise purpose. He expects me to do my share of the great work which His chosen people are now prose- outing. We must not fail to trust him for a moment, but watch and pray — ^pray that he will soon put our enemies to shame and confusion, and restore our nation to its glory, and our suffering, bleeding soldiers once more to peaceful homes and loving friends. * * * Another moon has come. I am cautiously feeling my way through a Virginia woods with Sword and pistol on, posting my men, or picking my way from point to point where my presence is necessary. Last night I came near getting lost. How much longer we are to lie here front to front with the enemy is uncertain. Many think the enemy will move soon and perhaps try another flank movement to turn the works here. I think Grant is sick of charging the rifle pits. * * * On the James, Below Charles City Court House, Wednesday Afternoon, June 15. Five long days since I wrote you, four of them hard days, with -two consecutive sleepless nights. * * * Sunday evening at dark we withdrew from our entrenched position near Cold Harbor, marched aU night and all day Monday, crossed the Chickahominy at sunset, and bivouaced in line of battle about a mile from its right bank. Here I was detailed as division officer of the day, and was employed all night on the picket line, which 336 WITH THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. was through a dense wood filled with underbrush. Of course I spent a very disagreeable night, having had no sleep the night before. The moon was shining, but she is dismal to me now. * * * Yesterday morning we made a march of about six miles and went into camp in a very pleasant place, and were looking for a good rest, but early in the afternoon an order came for me to report with my battalion at division headquarters for fatigue duty. At headquarters I found nine hundred men who were put under my command. We marched through a section of country, by far the finest we have seen, and encamped on a wide plain on the left bank of the James Eiver. It is half a mile wide here, and filled with boats of all descriptions, and it was very cheering to come in sight of a scene so lively and home like. This is the most accessible point at which we have been for many weeks. I would like to step on to the Keyport or Webster, which lay in sight from my tent, and sail for New York as fast as steam could carry me. There is a pontoon bridge just below our camp, and another to be laid below that. We are buUding a corduroy road along the shore between the two bridges. Evening, 7 :45. An opportunity to send this offers just now. Have no time to finish it. Will write to-morrow if possible. Near Petersburg, Va., Saturday morning, June 18. In closing my last so abruptly I hoped to write you the next day, but it was impossible. In the afternoon of the next day, the 16th, orders came to march. Soon after we started, Lieutenant-Colonel Benton was taken sick and turned over the command to me. We crossed the James on a pontoon of a hundred boats, nearly a half WITH THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. 337 mile in length, at dusk, marched aU night and most of yesterday, and arrived here last evening. We went into line of battle here about five o'clock on the crest of a bluff, overlooking a large plain in front; beyond is the city, which is about two miles from us. We are inside two Unes of rebel works which were taken yester day morning by the Eighteenth Corps. Colonel Duncan was prominent in the charge at which they were taken, with his colored regiment. All gained much credit. While marching up last evening an officer met me and asked if Major Chamberlin's command was near. I informed him that I was Major Chamberlin, when he extended his hand and introduced himself as Captain Carter of the Fourteenth. * * j learned the colonel was only a mile from us last evening. I ached to get away long enough to call on him, but it is no use try ing to leave your command at such times as these, as it might be five miles away before you would see it again. Then with the responsibility of so large a regi ment (more than half the brigade) on my shoulders, I had no disposition to leave. * ? A good many of our officers do not come up to the mark out here. I was so used up with fatigue the first ten days, that I found it difficult to do my whole duty, but now that I have become somewhat hardened to it, I get along nicely. I am weU, but the loss of sleep is trying. * * South op Petersburg, Va., July 5. You have not heard from me except through Grahame since the 1st. On the morning of the 2d we had a short but terribly hot and dusty march back to a position near the one we left on the 29th. Here we went into camp and have remained since, all as busy as bees making out roUs and returns, How I wish you —22 338 WITH the army of the POTOMAC, might help me finish up my ordnance returns. The men are cleaning up their muskets, and we are gener ally endeavoring to repair, to some extent, the wear and tear of the past fifty days of terrible labor. My wall tent is up, and I have a little table and seat extem porized, and am quite comfortable, * * * For two evenings we have had dress parade, and this morning had guard mount, * # * I don't have as many veg etables as I could desire, but am thus far very well. We have not suffered from want of water as yet. Just now we have some lemons from the Christian Commis sion, which are a great luxury. The medical director of this corps (a Catholic) has prohibited the Christian Commission from coming about the hospitals or into the corps, henceforth. It is a glaring shame, and the igno rant, bigoted tyrant ought to be sent home in disgrace. * * » -y^g have had no rain to amount to anything for a week. The heat and dust are terrible. * * * Headquarters 1st Art'y, 11th Vt. Vols., June 27, 1864. My Dear Father: How often, in the midst of all these dangers and privations, my mind turns back to that delightful home where I once lived so joyfully, so peacefully with my father, my mother, and brother and sisters. What blessed days, when the country was at peace ; what awful days these, of blood, and carnage, and hate. The realities of war, you who have never been on the bat tlefield can never know or even imagine. To me, who have seen it, it seems more like a horrid, hellish dream, rather than a fact. There will be a fearful reckoning with those who are responsible for all this. Ours is WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC 339 the right side, but we have hard work before us. God will give us the victory sometime, and will surely put our wicked enemies to shame and confusion. I wish I could write you oftener, but it has been impossible. To Delie I have written very frequently, but beyond this have done no writing, except what was required in my official capacity. I think I have writ ten you only once before since leaving Washington. The campaign has been intensely active and laborious. The night work has been particularly severe, the greater part of the marching having been done by night. At dark, on the evening of June 12th, we left Cold Har bor, and marched all night and all the next day. At evening we rested on the right bank of the Chicka hominy, and I was laying my blankets preparing for a good night's sleep, when an order came, detailing me as division officer of the day, and I was on picket line all night without sleep, and marched the greater part of next day. Fatigues, that at home would be thought terrible, entirely too much for flesh and blood to endure, are an every week's occurrence here, and we learn to bear them very naturally. Delie has written you often, and through her you have been made acquainted with the items of news from time to time. I have been in command of the regiment for about two weeks/ Lieutenant-Colonel Ben ton has resigned and gone home. Colonel Warner is at his home still. On the 23d, the regiment met with a very great mis fortune. We were in line of battle, facing the Garton Branch and Petersburg railroad. A report came in that a party of sharpshooters had pushed forward and taken the road, and wanted support. Two hundred men from our regiment were called for, and immediately sent 340 WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. under charge of Captain M., to be reported to Lieuten ant-Colonel P., corps officer of the day. Soon after, I was called on for more men, and sent out Major F. with his battalion. Pour hundred of our men were now out. In the afternoon the enemy moved two brig ades rapidly down the railroad, formed as a skirmish line, and advanced on our skirmish line, which, not being properly supported, was finally driven back, and a portion of it captured. In that part of the line were our noble boys, and we have lost the greater part of them. Our total loss on that day was twenty-four killed and wounded, and two hundred and seventy-five prisoners. Of these, one officer was killed (Second- Lieutenant Sherman, a fine man and officer) and eighteen captured. My old company. A, is among the unfortunate. Captain M. and Lieutenant E. will know the beauties of a Southern prison. The batteries cap tured are P, L, K, H and A. A and K were my Tot ten companies, and L was with me at Lincoln. The greater part of the Fourth Vermont was taken at the same time. The fault was with the corps commander in not ordering proper supports. Our officers and men did their whole duty. We have had a good deal of trench life during the campaign at Cold Harbor and at Petersburg. We dig up into the very teeth of the enemy, and then watch him. It is not safe to expose one's head above the embankment, as a few sharpshooters keep up their murderous work through little loopholes in the para pet; otherwise there is not much firing. Living under ground is very dirty work, as you can imagine. One night, I remember to have been awakened by some thing on my neck, which I discovered to be a medium sized toad. Bugs and worms crawl over us promiscuously. WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC 841 What a sad sight, in this enlightened age, to see the sec tions of this civUized nation fighting each other with such insatiable fury. How much more congenial to our tastes, and how much more consonant with all our christian feel ings and impulses, is peace, harmony, brotherly love. God deliver the nation soon from the chastisement of fire and blood which He has seen fit to send upon us. How soon Carrie will graduate — day after to-morrow. It is probably an occasion of as much interest to her as mine was to me, nearly four years ago. Do any of you go to Troy? Delie wrote that mother would not go. I hope some of you will be there to see her take her honors. I well remember my gratification at seeing you all at Hanover. Delie, I think, has decided to go to Vermont. This I am very glad of, and have advised it all the time. How she vrill enjoy a visit there ! You must drive away her sadness. She is very anxious for me, and I fear it is wearing upon her severely. I hope the Green Mountain air, and the many dear friends she wUl find there, will cause her to rally, and be as cheerful and healthy as ever. A husband and wife who love each other as we do, have no business to be separated as we are. You wUl all take good, tender care of her, won't you? Cheer her up and comfort her by every means in your power. If you knew how kind, attentive and devoted she has always been to me, you could not help loving her for my sake. And you do know all about it, and you do love her for my sake, and for herself too. You have seen her, and you know that nobody has a better wife than I. How I wish I might be there with you. All will be there but the "boys." You will miss us. How happy we should be together around that home circle again. I should be happier than ever to be there with my new companion, and you would be happier to see me with her than alone. 342 WITH THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. for I know you joy in my joy. God has blessed me with the kindest of friends always, and I pray for a life long enough to show them that I am grateful. We were very sorry you did not return via Washington with Mary. I have had an intimation that you would remove West this fall. Is it so ? I want to hear all about it. By the way, why haven't I heard from any of you ? I think I have not had a single letter since the campaign commenced. That isn't right. My address is 1st ArtiUery, 11th Vt. Vols., 2d Brig., 2d Division, 6th Corps, Washington. The weather is very hot. The army is comparatively quiet, and will remain so, probably, until after muster day, the 30th. Much love to my dear mother and sisters, and also to Edward, when you write. How dear is each and every one to me ! Let me hear soon. Your affectionate son. Headquarters 1st Art'y, 11th Vt, Vols,, Wednesday, July 6. 1864. My Darling Mother: If you could know how welcome your letter was yester day — what feelings of gratitude those kind words and evidences of tender anxiety inspired — you would write me oftener. You ask me to write you once in a whUe, but you have before this, probably, received a letter from me written a few days since, and I hope now to be able to write you occasionally, as the campaign cannot be so active during the remainder of the summer as it has been. It would kill us all. UntU now, we have hardly had a day of rest since leaving Washington. How grateful to my sad, longing heart were your assur ances of love for her whom I love so tenderly. I like to WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. 343 have you talk to me about her, mother. My heart seems to feel a new love for you, and my eyes moisten with grateful tears when you say you will be kind to her under all circumstances. And yet I knew it all the time, but it does me so much good to hear you say it. You "are loving her more and more every day." So have I loved her more and more every day since I knew her, and so I always shall. She is more than worthy of me, mother. What a kind providence it was that gave her to me. I think the dear girl will soon be with you. She has been delaying, to go with Mr. and Mrs. McNamee the last of the month, but I wrote her yesterday I thought she would better go immediately. I do not like to have her in the city during the hot July. I fear she is already reduced a great deal by loneliness and anxiety, as she speaks of weakness of eyes — I fear from excessive weeping. Mother, I know you will take the best care of her. Cheer her up — give her a plenty of the pure Green Mountain air, and as many social privileges as our vUlage will allow. She was always as cheerful and as happy as a bird with me — lively, even gay. She has a most tender heart, appre ciating quickly every kind word and act, but an unkind one cuts her to the heart. How I wish I might be with • you all. 0, what a luxury to sit down there with wife, father, mother, sisters. I enjoyed it for three brief days last summer, I hardly appreciated the blessing then as I should now. We should then still miss one — the brother so dear to us all, and so far away. Watch my Delie closely, and let me know of her exae state of health and spirits. TeU me if you think it my duty to make an early effort to leave the service. I have an abiding faith in our Heavenly Father that we shaU be restored, and permitted to spend many happy years together. I am sorry none of you could be with Carrie 344 WITH THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC. on the twenty-ninth. You know I agree with you about her being a "rare girl." I purposed writing her on that day, but it was the day we moved to Beam's. My headquarters to-day are in an old building — one of the out-houses on the place. Perhaps it was negro quar ters of old. We have our field-desk and a rough table, and are hard at work on our rolls and returns. The country through which we operate is almost deserted, and is desolated by the sweep of both armies. Everything here is far behind New England. The people who stay behind dress poorly and live poorly, and they say that is the way the whole South is doing. It would have been far better had the North commenced economy long ago. The most deplorable feature I see about this great con test, is the wickedness of our officers and soldiers. The great majority seem to have lost all respect for that God on whom they pretend to rely for assistance and for victory. They blaspheme His name most shame fully, and put all His commandments under their feet. I sometimes fear that in some moment of wrath he will cut us off entirely ; but I remember that he is long-suffer ing and slow to anger, waiting to be merciful, and that he can forgive a thousand sins as easily as one. Write me all the St. Johnsbury news. Eemember me particularly to Mr. Dana and family. Judge Poland and famUy, Mr. Blodgett, Mr. Merrill and family. Governor and Horace Fairbanks and families. Thank Mr. Merrill for a paper received from him a few days since. How is my little sister Lillie ?. Does not she want to see me and have a "frolic"? Does she go to school? How glad she will be to see Delie. She must ask her to frolic with her. I hope Mary's Ulness is not to be of long dura tion. Much love to her and dear Carrie. All must write me. WITH THE ARMY OP THE POTOMAC. 345 The Third Division of our corps has gone to Harper's Ferry, to see to EweU. How is the new EnroUment Bill i-elished ? Our army must be filled up at some rate. Let me have another letter very soon, my dear mother. We expect Colonel Warner back soon. I have been in command since June 17th. All goes well, I believe. God bless you all. Your ever affectionate George. Late in the month of June, General Lee, perceiving the Shenandoah Valley to be unprotected, despatched Early and Breckinridge into Maryland, assuming that by threatening Washington, troops would be diverted from the Army of the Potomac for its protection. The invading army numbered about seventeen thousand officers and men. The suddenness of this incursion led President Lincoln to call on the Governors of Pennsyl vania, New York and Massachusets for hundred day volunteers, and General Hunter was instructed again to occupy the valley. But so stealthy and rapid were Early's movements that it was not until the 5th of July that Grant was convinced of his presence in the Mary land border, and little could be done to avert the ap proach on the capitol, although it was delayed until the 11th, when Early marched on the Seventh street road to the front of Fort Stevens. In this crisis, the arrival of the Sixth Corps from Petersburg was, accord ing to Pond's history of this campaign, "the chief source of safety," 346 return to the defences op washington, to his wife. On Board Steamer S. E. Spalding, Washington, D. C, July 12, 1864. * * * * What can this mean, I hear you exclaim, Saturday night at 11 o'clock we got sudden orders to move. We marched to City Point and embarked Sun day, sailed down the James, up the Chesapeake and Potomac, and are just coming up to the City of Wash ington. If you had been with me the ride would have been delightful. * * * i have had good quarters and fare on the boat. I do not know as we shall land here, and if we do, cannot tell where we shall go. Have seen the Soldiers' Home in the distance, and all the familiar points. May God bring us together soon. If I get oppor tunity, I will add another word before maUing this. * * * Just up to the wharf. Learn of a guerrilla fight at Fort Stevens, and that our brigade is ordered there. * * * Am on Prince, bound for. Fort Stevens with regiment. Extract from "The Vermont Brigade in the Shenandoah Valley," by Aldace P. Walker, Lieutenant-Colonel ot the Eleventh Vermont, (the successor of Lieutenant-Colonel Chamberlin): "The Sixth Corps, for the first time detached from the Army of the Potomac, took ship at City Point on the 10th of July, 1864, and reached Washington in the evening of the following day. It disembarked to the music of Early's artillery on the morning of the 12th, and promptly marched up Seventh street through the city, and out the pike to the front. We found the citi zens in a state of great and not surprising consterna tion. The cannon of the enemy, whose camp was only RETURN TO THE DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 347 five mUes north of the Capitol, had been heard contin ually for two days, and it was known that the works were insufficiently manned; a few green hundred-day regiments, the scrapings of the convalescent camps, and some civilian government clerks and employees hastily armed in the emergency, comprised the entire garrison of the sixteen mUes of forts and works that encircled the city on the north of the Potomac. And the lines ¦ on the south of the river of equal extent had likewise to be occupied with the slender force at hand, although the rebels were not in force in that direction. Therefore the sight of the veterans of the Sixth Corps was an intense relief to the constitutionally timid Washingtonians. We passed through crowded streets; cheers, good wishes and fervent God-speeds were heard on every side. Citizens ran through the lines with buckets of ice-water, for the morning was sultry ; news papers and eatables were handed into the column, and our welcome had a heartiness that showed how intense had been the fear. We pushed on rapidly through the dust, and were soon at the threatened point, Fort Stevens, on the Eock- vUle Pike, a little west of the centre of the northern defences. This fort, with two or three others in the vicinity, was in a great measure constructed by the Eleventh Vermont, and just here that regiment had spent a year and a half of its military existence. Long practice had made its officers and men entirely famUiar with the range and capacity of every gun, howitzer and mortar, but they had the mortification of seeing the artiUery entrusted to troops who could hardly load heavy ordnance with safety; when, by the lucky chance of its return to what seemed to it like home, great good might have been secured as the fruit of its early labors. 348 RETURN TO THE DEPENCES OP WASHINGTON. unfortunately no use was made of the skill its members longed to exercise. The corps was kept concealed in a forest behind the lines, while a grand council of war decided how the so timely reinforcements should be employed. President Lincoln, Secretary Stanton, Gen eral Halleck, General McCook, General Meigs, General Wright, and others had carefully discussed the situa tion, and had differed materially as to whether a vig orous attack should be made by the entire corps, or whether the enemy's position should be first developed by a strong skirmish line. The latter plan prevailed, and rather, late in the afternoon the attacking party filed down the pike in front of the fort and rapidly de ployed. Minute details of this affair cannot here be given, as the Vermont brigade was not involved. The sally was made by General Bidwell's Third Brigade of our division, and a company of about seventy-five, who were selected from the various regiments of the division, and attached to General Getty's headquarters as sharp shooters, under command of Captain Alexander M. Beattie, of the Third Vermont. The pseudo-soldiers who filled the trenches around the fort were astounded at the temerity displayed by these war-worn veterans in going out before the breast works, and benevolently volunteered most earnest words of caution. The enemy's skirmishers were at this time within six hundred yards of the fort, in strong force, and their bullets, which were plenty, were assisted by shell from artiUery -planted behind them. In a few minutes all was over. Our brave men charged handsomely, for they meant business, and knew how it was done; the enemy, after a bitter little con test, fell back out of sight, leaving us to establish our pickets for the night where we would. The Vermont RETURN TO THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. 349 Brigade relieved the charging party for this purpose, and the dignitaries in the fort returned to their homes, having witnessed as pretty and well conducted a little fight as was seen during the whole war. President Lincoln was present on General Wright's invitation, which he says he bitterly repented having given, when to his surprise it was accepted. The President per sisted in standing on the parapet, though an officer was wounded by his side, and his danger was a source of great anxiety to the General, who at last suggested that he should have to remove him by force ; an idea which seemed greatly to amuse Lincoln. He at last con sented to stand on the banquette, looking over the par apet, but was under fire to the end of the action. The object proposed in this affair was to make such a display of force as would convince Early that Wash ington did not propose to submit to be tamely cap tured, and to relieve our line from the annoyance of the enemy's sharpshooters. It succeeded even better than was hoped, since as its results the rebels aban doned the vicinity at once. That night Early rapidly retreated, and there can be no doubt that the arrival of the Sixth Corps, with its prompt offensive movement, was the immediate cause of his withdrawal from before the city he had bombastically threatened to destroy. There can also be little doubt that he might have taken it on either of the two days he spent in its neighbor hood before our arrival from Petersburg. * * * rpjjg total loss was about two hundred and fifty killed and wounded on each side. * * * Our dead were afterwards carefully collected, and interred in a lot just in front of the fort, purchased for a cem etery by the government. The battle field is now one of the objects of interest to Washington sight-seers. 350 RETURN TO THE DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. All this was in the District of Columbia, and it served to give the semi-rebels in that vicinity a practical taste of the horrors of war. Perhaps a dozen dwellings of well-to-do citizens were destroyed, because they ob structed the range of our guns ; one situated directly across the pike from the fort, and the residence of a widow of strong southern proclivities, at whose table many officers of the Eleventh had boarded for months, was saved until the last moment, and finally neces sarily burned on the day of the fight ; the poor woman being allowed but twenty minutes in which to remove her household goods before the application of the torch. Other dwellings not entirely destroyed were ruined in the fight ; all the crops in the neighborhood were trod den down, and the bomb-proof in the fort was filled for days with terrified women and children. The most notable injury done by the enemy was the burning of the elegant mansion of Hon. Montgomery Blair, then postmaster-general, whose subsequent career shows him to be of a most forgiving disposition. The residence of his father, Hon. Francis P. Blair, Sr., called "Silver Spring," was the headquarters of Gen erals Early and Breckenridge, and was thoroughly over hauled ; it was left in the utmost confusion, the always hospitable table bearing all the marks of a famous carousal. TO HIS WIFE. Fort Stevens, D. C, July 13, 1864. How strange all these things are ! We marched here yesterday morning and rested. Batteries A, K and E were sent to Totten soon after our arrival. In the afternoon I went over to visit them. * * * xt return to THE DEPENCES OF WASHINGTON. 351 is now the rough officers' quarters, and not a home. Mrs. M. C. spied me walking my horse by the corner, and ran out delighted, and made me stop and shake hands. I rode down to Mr. WUtberger's and met the jvarmest welcome, then called a moment at the Walker's. They all inquired immediately and most particularly for Mrs. Chamberlin. # * * There was skirmishing all day in front of Stevens, and in the evening quite a battle was fought, which I saw. Many were killed and wounded. Little did we think as we used to ride so delightfully and joyously up Seventh street and across the picket line, that it would be now in the rebel possession, and I back here under the present circumstances. That whole line through the woods that we used to ride through in front of Stevens and Slocum is possessed by the enemy, and many of the dwellings in front are burned. Stevens, Slocum and Totten are firing at slow intervals at living targets, and I understand there was firing from Lincoln last night. Colonel Warner commands from Eock Creek to the Potomac. Last night the greater part of the regi ment was sent out on picket, but I remained to complete our rolls. Dare we hope that our regiment will be assigned to the defences again. * * * His diary here records as follows: Wednesday 13— Got marching orders this morning. Rode to Teu- allytown at noon and spent part of the afternoon with Colonel Warner. Pound him looking well. Going back, I met the regiment near DeRussy. The corps passed Tenallytown. Band played tor the Colonel as we passed, and we cheered him. A good part of the regiment are marching as flankers, and guarding the trains and the rear. Batteries A, K and E have not reported. Thuesdat, 14— Marched all last night. The straggling was awful— never so bad. To-day hot. Skirmishing going on when we came. Went into line ot battle, and to all appearance shall stay to night. The men are straggling in. 352 THE PURSUIT AFTER EARLY. The history of the Vermont Brigade, mentioned a few pages back, gives the following account of the chase after Early: "After their demonstration against the Capitol, the enemy made their way to the northwest, preparing to cross the Potomac near Poolesville, forty miles or so above Washington. We lost some time in order to be satisfied that Early had not gone to Baltimore, and then the Sixth Corps were ordered out in pursuit, of course too late to overtake more than the rear guard which Early left on the north side of the Potomac. Our exertions for the next forty days were tremendous, and we accomplished apparently nothing. Marching almost constantly, frequently by night as well as by day, we nearly exhausted all our energies, while gaining no credit whatever for our wearisome struggles. The army knew no better than the country at large what it was doing so vigorously, and we have never yet been able to entirely comprehend our mysterious manoeuvres. "The first night's march from Washington, July 13, 1864, was one of the most fatiguing we ever performed. The Vermont Brigade was selected as rear guard to bring up the stragglers and the trains. * * * Exhausted already with picket-duty for a night and a day, we got off about three o'clock, p. m. ; at nine we reached Fort Eeno, having made in six hours less than -three miles. Here we found Colonel Warner in command, and after a look at his headquarters and a hasty greeting, plunged ''forward through the Maryland woods and gullies into the darkness. The wagons soon be came entangled, mixed, and frequently upset. The mules and drivers were green, our old teams having been left at Petersburg. The road was narrow and of itself difficult. The men presently began to steal out THE PURSUIT AFTER EARLY. 353 of the columns and Ue down to rest. Many were actually lost in the forests as we hurried on, and this horrid confusion continued aU the night long. When we halted for breakfast we had marked twenty-one mUes. The balance of the division was then just ready to commence its next days march, having rested for hours, and after barely time for a cup of coffee we struggled forward under the July sun, our system of rotation then placing us in advance of all. That after noon we reached Poolesville, the last few miles of our journey being enlivened by the cannonading of a section of artillery, which, with a little cavalry as our advance guard, was driving the rear of the enemy toward the river. Having thus marched forty miles in twenty-four hours, we lay still the next day (the fifteenth) near Poolesville, grumbling because our haste had been so profitless. On the sixteenth of July we crossed the Potomac The scene at the ford was new and exhila rating; the river is quite wide at this point and about thigh deep; the horses were loaded double or treble, and most of the footmen, not having the fear of women before iheii eyes, carried their clothing upon their shoulders ; brigades were crossing in several places for a mile up and down the river; every one greeted the unusual sensation of the slippery rocks and the gurgling water with shouts and laughter ; the burdened men were here and there overthrown by the swift cur rent, and occasionally one would slip from a stagger ing horse and be buried for an instant in the stream, to the intense amusement of all but the unfortunate; in such a gleeful humor we re-entered Virginia and laid ourselves out to dry upon the sacred soil." —23 354 second return to defences op washington. to his wife. Three Miles West op Leesburg, Md. Sunday Evening, July 17, 1864. * * * -^g igft PoolesviUe yesterday morning, forded the Potomac at White's Ford, and rested at this point, — a very pleasant location, — at dusk last evening. I was detailed as a division officer of the day and spent most of the night on the picket line. The crossing of the Potomac was a fine sight ; the thousands waded across gaUy in two feet of water. An incident that created a good deal of merriment was the tum bling down of a horse which carried a little negro boy on its back, and the poor little fellow was dowsed under water and kept there, for a moment. The whole crowd shouted, of course. You will doubtless see the scene of the crossing represented in the illustrated papers. It was exciting and grand. * * * j have heard nothing from you for several days. We have had no mail since we commenced the chase, and we have not much of a train along. Our army forages on the country. * * * 22d, Morning — No maUs, nor opportunity to send. We crossed the Shenandoah day before yesterday (the 20th), lay still a few hours about a mile from its left bank, and recrossed in the evening under orders to go to Washington. 10 A. M., 22d — On march for Alexandria. Mail just going. George. SECOND RETURN TO DEFENCES OF WASHINGTON. 355 Entries in diary: July 23— Marched at seven o'clock this morning ; crossed Chain Bridge ; went into camp near Tenallytown this evening,; went to Totten and ordered the three batteries there to join regiment, then o Washington where I made necessary purchases. A rumor exists that our regiment will remain in the defences. How thankful I shall be for Delie's sake, and tor my own, too. Sunday, 24.— Came to Washington this morning, and went back to camp at noon ; there got an prder that the heavy artillery regi ments in the Sixth Corps would remain in the defences, and that their commanders would report at once to General Augur. Colonel Warner and I then came in and reported. Brigadier-General Augur was ordered to General Hardin, commanding defences north. I shall stay in to-night and report to him in the morning. Stop at Ebbitt. I have received a lieutenant-colonel's commission. Ebbitt House, Washington, D. C, Monday Morning, July 25, 1864. Dare I tell you that this is to ask you to join me in the defences of Washington? Dare I hope or think that God's time has come for us to be re-united ? * * * The regiment is ordered to remain in the defences of Washington. Last evening I reported for duty to General Augur, and by him was ordered to report to General Hardiuj commanding defences north. I have not yet found him. I hope and expect that he will assign the regiment to the old line, and shall be able to tell you before sending this. I hope you will be able to join me this week, or at furthest this day week, August 1st. * * * We are assigned to the old line. I shall go to Stevens, to command Stevens and Slocum. Write me immediately when to expect you at the depot. * * * My commission as lieutenant-colonel also came, and I have on my shoulders the silver leaf. * * * 356 SECOND RETURN TO DEFENCES OP WASHINGTON. Fort Stevens, D. C, July 25, 1864, My Darling Mother : I have just time to say that our regiment is again in the defences of Washington, I am assigned to the com mand of Forts Stevens and Slocum. Delie will join me immediately, and you must miss her visit this time. I shall be so happy to have her with me again. We had a hard tramp up the Shenandoah, and had no mail for ten days, nor had an opportunity to send out any. I am commissioned as lieutenant-colonel of our regi ment. I received your and Carrie's short notes. Let me hear right away. Love to all. Your most affectionate George. ENTRIES IN DIARY. July, 25.— Assigned to our old line. I command Stevens and Slocum Regiment marched over and occupied this afternoon. Have sent to my darling wife to prepare to join me soon. Colonel Warner took command ot regiment. July' 26.— Went to Washington this morning to be mustered. Got sword at arsenal. On returning this afternoon, found the regiment gone, assigned for temporary duty to Sixth Corps. Left telegram and letter for Delie, with Mr. Poole, and started on with Major Walker and Chaplain, via Tenallytown. Caught regiment at midnight. We go after the raiders into Maryland. the valley of the shenandoah. 357 to his wife. Near Frederick, Md., Sunday eveniug, July 31, 1864. * * * This Sabbath I had fondly hoped to spend in your presence ; I had hoped that to-day we might lift our hearts again in united prayer and thanksgiving to the Great Author of all our blessings, but it was not His wUl, and we must say — "aU is well." Yesterday and to-day have been the hottest days I remember to have experienced, and our poor troops have been obliged to march under the torrid sun. Yesterday, at three o'clock p. m., we left camp near Harper's Ferry, and commenced a march back over the same road we came, and marched till three o'clock this morning ; then rested and started again this forenoon at nine, and arrived here at six this evening. The march to-day has been awful. The corps is being abused shamefully. It is marched and countermarched, made to ford rivers and climb mountains — and all to no purpose. The enemy is too much for us at every point, and our leaders seem to be lamentably weak. I don't like to feel discouraged, but sometimes can't avoid it. Hundreds in the corps have been sun-struck to-day ; some have died where they fell ; one sergeant, from battery M, died so to-day. When we halted? to-night the regiment did not number two hundred men. Poor fellows, how my heart has bled for them all day. The march was very trying to me as well as to the rest, but I am thus far weU, by the blessing of God. For dinner and supper to-day I have been fortun ate enough to get bread and milk. Captain Walker is the new Major — by far 'the best man. I have to write you with a pencil again, and any time I can catch an opportunity — and sitting on the ground. Our work here chasing the enemy, is very active and hard. We expect 358 THE VALLEY OF THE SHENANDOAH, to go into the defences again, but cannot tell how soon. We expect to march in the morning, I have received no letters since leaving Washington, Is Alexander in the Army of the Potomac ? One division of his corps is here, * * * Near Frederick, Md., Tuesday evening, August 2, 10:30 o'clock. * * * Two letters from you to-day — one of joy at my first telegram, the other of disappointment at the second, I was rejoiced to hear again. Am glad you look on the hopeful side. How prompt you were in getting ready. It would have delighted me to find you coming so much sooner than I supposed you could prepare. I was planning to board at Mr. Poole's, at Fort Stevens, and I left several little articles there. We are in the same place as yesterday, and under orders to march at four and a half o'clock to-morrow morning, I think we shall go towards Washington, and that our regiment will soon be in its proper place in the defences. If by any fortune, however, we are des tined to stay with the corps, I want to see you if we pass through Washington. To this end I may telegraph you to come on some uncertainty. I received a line from Alex, to-day which I will inclose. I hope and pray that we are soon to be reunited, never again to be separated. * * * On the Monocacy, Near Buckeyestown, Md., Wednesday evening, August 3. We made a short march to-day, but it was toward Washington. I know little of the future, but hope all is to be well for you and me. Captain Morrill is dead from a wound received in trying to escape. Captain THE VALLEY OF THE SHENANDOAH. 359 Safford and Lieutenant Fleury have escaped, and are at home on leave of absence. Lieutenant Griswold left with Safford, but got separated from him, and has not yet come in. We are rejoiced, of course, to hear of these pieces of good fortune to our comrades. * * * The army is camped to-night in an amphitheater. The camp fires are beautiful. I wish you could look on the scene. We can see the whole army at a glance. Near Harper's Ferry, Va., Sunday morning, August 7. * * * We got sudden orders Friday night at Mon ocacy, and in pursuance came up here yesterday. I wrote a word to you while walking across the pontoon yesterday morning, and mailed the letter in the village. I have seen dear Alex. The Fourteenth is encamped within three-fourths of a mile of us, and we shall probably see each other often. Is not this good, if we must be in the war at all, that we can be together? We were both delighted to meet. He is looking well, better than I ever saw him before. Love to all the dear ones at home — father, mother and sisters. * * * Harper's Ferry, Va., Monday, August 8. * * * Our regiment is still where it was at last writing. I am in the village this forenoon, purchasing a few articles of clothing. Saw Alex, twice yesterday, and had a splendid talk with him. You do not know how much good it does me to see him. It is the next thing to going home. He is glad enough to get into this army. Only four companies of the Fourteenth are vrith him. » * * I hope you will be happy with my dear friends at St. Johnsbm-y. You must keep up a 360 THE VALLEY OF THE SHENANDOAH. good and brave heart, and take new courage in that I have got so near Alex. We can take care of each other. The poor fellow has not heard from his wife or any of you for more than seven weeks. We know nothing of the future here. You probably get the news sooner than we. * * * Near Harper's Ferry, Tuesday evening, August 9. We are stiU in the same place. Our camp is rather a pretty one, on a wooded ridge; the oaks are large and tall, and the moon is shining down through them. * * Here I sit ; my chair a box, and my table a morning- report book. It is a warm evening, and all are outside tents, except Colonel, who lies smoking at ease in his, near by. The music of a hundred drums and fifes is sounding "tattoo" throughout the corps. Ten thousand camp fires seem to blaze, as one looks about. The sight is really a picturesque and exciting one. There are rumors of a move to-morrow morning. A large army is collected here. What its destination is. can only be conjectured. If we go up the valley, I fear communication will be cut off again. * * * You can not tell what a blessed thing it is, to have Alex near. Last evening he was over, and to-day we have been to Harper's Ferry together. We talk over everything ; say ing a great deal about the dear friends we love, and of our desire to be with them again — never to leave them ! We bought numerous necessaries, to-day, and I am now quite well equipped for a campaign, if I am called on to participate in one. To-day I bought a pair of sol dier's pants, a woolen blanket and a rubber poncho. Major Walker and I have had our small shelter tents made into a sort of wall tent — smaller than the common THE VALLEY OF THE SHENANDOAH. 361 waU tent, but quite comfortable for two, so you may consider me now as rather better prepared for exposure and hard work than before. * * * Tell me aU about father, mother, and sisters, and if anything has been heard from brother Ed, of late. When will Carrie's letter come, giving me an account of her graduation? I shaU lie down, now, to pray for you, and then sleep. * * * to mr. and mrs. edgell. In Camp, in the Field, on the Monocacy Eiver, NEAR BUCKEYETOWN, Md., AugUst, 3, 1864, My Dear Uncle and Aunt : A word from me, I know, wUl be acceptable. It would have been written many times, during the last three months, had not sterner duties engrossed nearly all my time. I have written my dear wife very often, of course ; further than that, very few letters, even to St, Johns bury, I have been through an active, laborious, bloody cam paign, with Grant from Spottsylvania to Petersburg; then back to Washington, and into Maryland, and into the Valley with Wright, after the raiders. You doubt less read of the affair at Fort Stevens, near Washing ton, It was one of the forts we garrisoned so long. We were back to see the battle in front of it. Our colonel was wounded, and was absent with his wound about two months, during most of which time the command of the regiment devolved on me, the lieutenant-colonel having resigned. On June 1st, at Cold Harbor, that part of the regiment which was in the bloody battle of that day lost heavily. On the 23d of June, south of Petersburg, 362 THE VALLEY OP THE SHENANDOAH. we lost heavily in prisoners —about three hundred in officers and men, including one of our majors and three captains. Two of the latter, however, have escaped, and the other one was killed in the attempt. Our life during such a campaign is necessarily very rough. With exception of three nights, I haven't had my clothes off to go to bed since May 12. These were two nights on boat from City Point, and one night in hotel in Washington. We have generally slept in the open air, my bedding a rubber and a wool blanket, with saddle for pillow. All this, and all the long marches by day and night, I have endured splendidly, and kept my health good. Sometimes I have had no sleep for two consecutive nights, marching, for instance, all one night, and on picket the next. My great trial is the separation from her whom I love so much better than all else of earth. It is cruel and very hard to bear, I assure you, and I long for its close and pray for our re-union soon. It is expected that some of the heavy artillery regiments (ours among them) will be ordered back into the fortifications about Washington. In that case she will be with me again. She has been intending a visit to Vermont, but has postponed it in the hope of joining me soon. Perhaps you would like my ideas of war, and the war in particular. I can't give them on paper, but I could talk to you about it, and hope to, some time, in full. You can know nothing of what a horrible thing war is — who have never been on a battle-field or in a field hospital —and I cannot write it. This war is a stupendous work. I believe we shall succeed, and pray God it may be soon, but am not so very sanguine of its speedy termination. Circumstances give them incalcu lable advantages in almost every battle. I think the THE VALLEY OP THE SHENANDOAH. 363 capture of Eichmond should not be thought of untU we can show before its waUs three men to their one. What a daring and successful raid this last one has been ! It has been wonderful. We were unprepared for it. God can give us victory, and perhaps will do so sooner than we anticipate, but I sometimes fear he will withhold it till the men composing our army, the instruments in his hands, have more respect for Him. The officers and men of the army are fearfully wicked. God's holy name is profaned shamefully, and even decent respect is many times every day denied to sacred things. Often have I trembled lest the thunderbolts of His wrath should fall visibly on some exhibition of wickedness which has come to my notice. But He is long suffering and kind, and out of evil will bring glory to His name. Never forget the army in your prayers. Pray that its sins may be forgiven, that every man in it may repent, and that its efforts may soon be crowned by final success ; that the cause of our enemies may soon be put to shame, and we be returned to our homes, to live in peace and harmony again. I suppose you hear from Vermont as often as I, and know as much about them. Are you not going on this summer? I am very anxious you should become acquainted with my darling wife. I shall be proud to introduce her to you. She is all to me, and more, than I ever dared hope for. Are George and Mary well ? Much love to them. I wish I could have seen George at Ft. Totten last year. I must not forget to tell you that I have been promoted to be lieutenant-colonel of my regi ment. Please write me soon. You would better direct to my wife, as it is uncertain where I shaU be. * * I 364 THE VALLEY OP THE SHENANDOAH. wish you would write her, by the way. She would ap preciate a letter very highly. Eemember me kindly to Mr. Smith and other friends in St. Louis. I have by no means forgotten the good city. As ever, your affectionate, etc. On the 7th of August, General Sheridan assumed command of the Army of the Shenandoah, inaugurating that campaign of which the first great battle was the bloody but brilliant victory at Winchester, on the 19th of September, and the last that of Cedar Creek, on the 19th of October, by which the Shenandoah Valley was fairly and finally cleared of the enemy. to his wipe. Near Middletown, Va., Sunday morning, August 14., * * Since last writing we have again got into a country of no mails, further and further from you. Nothing has Occurred to vary the monotony of the march save one skirmish, night before last. I shall send this by some one of the wagons which go back by the supply trains — an unreliable method, but I hope it may reach you ; it is the only means of communication we have. I have received no letter from you dated after you left New York. I hope you are safe at my dear old home now, and that you will keep up grand spirits. » * I ijad hoped so strongly to see you soon, that the disappointment ' has made me feel THE VALLEY OP THE SHENANDOAH. 365 my great loneliness more than ever. I have a great deal to be thankful for, however. My health is good. * * I shall write just as often as I can send. I have not seen Alex, since the 9th. Give my love to the dear ones at home, and to all in New York, when you write. Near Middletown, Va., Friday morning, August, 19. "The mail goes out in an hour." This notice just reached my ear. This is the first mail since the 15th. We have made another long and weary march north ward, but every step was lightened by the thought that it brought me nearer you. Before night I expect to leave the cursed soil of Virginia, and pitch my tent again in Maryland. We shall probably cross at Har per's Ferry this afternoon. I am not surprised that you do not understand all this marching and counter marching. I hope it is for some purpose. On the afternoon of the 15th, Alex, called on me, and I went to see him on the 16th, but that corps moved early on the morning of the 16th, and I suppose it has preceded us. In the evening of the 16th we got marching orders, and moved at midnight. We passed Middletown and Kemstown, arriving at Winchester in the forenoon (the 17th). Here a large force of cavalry, and the Jersey Brigade of infantry, were left to take care of our rear. In the evening they had a fight, and the brigade of infantry lost half its numbers in kiUed, wounded and missing. Winchester is an old and large town, with paved streets, and looks quite like a city, though much run down. We camped that night on Opequan creek. Our men were out of rations, and none were up. They had to live on the country. Yesterday morning we 366 the valley of the shenandoah. marched early, in the midst of a drenching rain which continued two or three hours, via BerryvUle, arrived at this point between eight and nine in the evening, and camped in a very pleasant place in the woods, and here drew rations. I walked nearly all the afternoon, giving my horse to a sick corporal. My health continues good, and God does not fail to bless me. I know He is taking good care of you. I long for a letter, as I have not heard, you know, since you arrived at St. Johnsbury. What a pleasant time you must be having. How fat and ruddy you must be growing. * * Perhaps God will bring us together soon. Let us hope and pray. Much love to the dear ones at home. I think of every one many times a day, and always in my prayers. They must write more. Carrie promised me a full account of her graduation. WiU it not come soon. God bless you, my "Best, my perpetual joy." Your loving George. And here is that letter, which though folded, addressed and stamped, was not signed, but awaited continuance. It was the last "good-bye," and the message it brought seemed to have come from the Beyond. Through weary years the words "But, darling, we are in God's hands, and His will is better and wiser than our will; we will love and trust Him, and be satisfied," were as a straw to which clung the broken-hearted wife, struggling against despair, praying for the light of faith, longing for death: the valley op the shenandoah. 367 Near Charlestown, Va., Sunday,. August 21, 1864. My Dear, Precious Wife : Your cheerful letter of the 17th, from New York, was handed me this morning before I Kad risen from my lowly bed. It made me happy. I was glad to know my darling had a safe journey. I had hoped that you would remain in Vermont long enough to thoroughly recruit your health, but perhaps that can as well be done in New York, where your anxiety will, I hope, be tempered by later intelligence from the army. I had said nothing about your remaining longer than two weeks, because it did not occur to me that you would think of returning with Alice, until you suggested it in one of your letters. I then immediately wrote advising you strongly to stay longer. The letter you wiU have received before this one, I presume. But, darling, we are in God's hands, and His will is better and wiser than our wiU; we will love and trust him, and be sat isfied — orders to strike tents and pack up immediately— picket firing in front is quite sharp — increasing for the last half hour — and it seems nearer — as though our pick ets were falling back. Good-bye. On Monday, the 2,2d of August, trunks stood packed for a western journey. The father and mother were to accompany their much loved sister, Aunt Louise, to St. Louis. Father and Auntie had chosen the after noon for a drive to Lyndon. The door-bell rang. That door has always seemed to me a floodgate, beyond which stood'a messenger whose few short words let in upon that home an overwhelm ing tide of darkness and sorrow, which might never ebb. 368 THE VALLEY OF THE SHENANDOAH. "Colonel Chamberlin fatally wounded," the message said. It was for me to teU the mother, to hear the wail, to see the fall ; for me to speak the words which crushed the sisters' hearts. The father and aunt re turned gaily, as was their wont, to heaj that their pride and their joy was smitten. The father made haste to the scene of action. The wife had outsped all, and alone had found her dead. The mother almost gave up living. There was no day for light, there was no night for rest. In a week the father came to his wife's bedside. He had brought their boy to bury him. His Delie came, in the arms of kindred. The black bier stood under the evergreens in the edge of the garden. We followed it to the church. Dr. Goodwin, who loved him too, spoke the last words. Forest trees bend over his grave, the birds sing there ; kindest hands administer to make it beautiful, but when all is done, it is stUl George's grave, the grave of happiness and hope in untold measure, "but — we are in God's hands, and His will is better and wiser than our will; we will love and trust Him, and be satisfied." Chapter X. God keeps a niche In Heaven to hold our idols; and albeit He brake them to our faces and denied That our close kisses should impair their white, — I know we shall behold them raised complete. The dust swept from their beauty,— glorified New Memuons singing in the great God-light. Mbs. Bnoyrsisa— Futurity. Extract from "The Vermont Brigade in the Shenandoah Valley"— Let ter from Colonel Gardiner to Mrs. George E. Chamberlin— Letter from Colonel Warner to Mrs. George E. Chamberlin— Contribution by Rev. Arthur Little. [Extract from "The Vermont Brigade in the Shenandoah Valley."} CHARLESTOWN. "On the morning of August 21st, the brigade was sta tioned at the edge of a wood two miles southwest from Charlestown. It happened to be quite near the picket line, which described a grand curve around our left flank as it covered the army front, perhaps a half mile from our camp. The ground the pickets occupied was undu lating, and there being no high hills or prominent posi tions, they were posted on a crest of one of a series of rolling ridges in no way superior to others in its front. "The constant reeonnoissances which our leader in dulged in for the last two weeks, were a new sensation to both armies. Early now attempted the same method of getting information, but discovered nothing at all, scarcely —24 370 CHARLESTOWN. any troops excepting our own brigade being displayed on our side, though for a short time a general engagement seemed emminent. " The commencement of the skirmish was startling enough. While the army was making preparations for the usual Sunday morning inspection, the pickets sud denly broke out into a hasty fusUlade, and then falling back in confusion, were seen making rapidly for camp across the fields. Horses were hastUy saddled, tents struck, knapsacks packed, and lines formed. General Getty and his staff rode through our camp, and directed General Grant to move out at once and re-establish the picket line. The order was simple, but its execution seemed likely to be difficult, for the line had been drawn in for nearly or quite a mile in extent along the semi- / circle of which our position was the centre, and whether by a line of battle or a skirmish line was entirely unknown, as weU as in what direction we were to expect the strongest hostile force. Whatever was done, must be done as an experiment ; fortunately the disposition first directed by General Grant, led to a successful result. " Without a moment's delay after receiving these orders, the brigade filed out of the woods and into the fields in front of our left, in the direction of the heaviest fire — the Third, Fourth and part of the Sixth deployed as skirmishers — and dashed forward rapidly, while the other regiments followed in line of battle more deliber ately, on various radii of the curve assumed by the skirmishers. Directly beyond the field in which we formed, there was a hill sloping towards us, and covered by a large cornfield of so high a growth that a man pass ing through it could not be seen. It soon appeared that it concealed a uniform line of rebel skirmishers extending over our entire front, and which had almost reached our CHARLESTOWN. 371 camp itself. Our advance exchanged volleys with them, plunged recklessly into the waving corn, and disappeared. Presently the grey coats of the enemy were seen as they, retreating, clambered over the fence at the further side of the field, and vanished beyond the hill. The rest of the brigade, excited by the success of the charge, followed rapidly. * * * " When the night had fallen — and a very dark night it was^we began to count our files and compute our losses. The brigade suffered as follows ; * * * Total, 123. "Lieutenant-Colonel George E. Chamberlin, of the Eleventh, was shot through the abdomen, almost before the regiment was under fire, and while preparations were making for the first advance against the corn-field. He fell from his horse into the arms of Lieutenant Dodge, his adjutant, and survived but a few hours. "Born in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, or its vicinity, a graduate of Dartmouth College and of Harvard Law School, he was at the commencement of the war in the successful practice of his profession at St. Louis. He entered the army under the most genuine moral com pulsion—impelled by the force of principle, and the feeling that he must do what he believed to be his duty, though very much against the wishes of his friends. His career as a soldier was what might have been ex pected from such antecedents. He was truly sans peur et sans reproche. Exaggeration is impossible in speaking of one who offered such remarkable talent upon his coun try's altar. Vermont should and will always cherish his memory as that of one of her noblest and bravest sons. "While in command of Fort Totten, near Washington, he had married the sister of Adjutant, subsequently Colonel Gardiner, of the Fourteenth New Hampshire regiment. Colonel Gardiner was killed a few days after 372 CHARLESTOWN. Colonel Chamberlin, at the battle of Opequan, and the bride, a widow and bereaved of her brother, an orphan before, was left in circumstances where sympathy alone remained to cheer her life." letter prom colonel alex. gardiner to mrs. george e. chamberlin. Headquarters 14th N. H. Volunteers, In the Field, near Charlestown, Va,, Tuesday Afternoon, Aug. 30, 1£64. My Dear Sister: I wrote mother a scrap of a note yesterday evening* just to say that I was well. We then expected to be on the march to-day, or else fighting the enemy upon this ground ; but the day is dravring to a close, and we are still lying quietly in the woods, where the Sixth Corps lay one week ago last Sunday. * * Everything indicated hot work to-day, but very hap pily we have had a day of pleasant rest. I looked up the Eleventh Vermont yesterday to find Mr. Little, and get him to ride with me to the scene of the contest of the previous Sunday, On my way there, just back of where we are now lying, on a little knoll, I passed the grave of the colored sergeant, and two others of the Eleventh Vermont, kiUed on the 21st. Mr. Little was glad to go with me. (Later in the day I rode there again with Dr. Parks and the adjutant of the First Battalion.) The camp of the Eleventh on the morning of the 21st was in front of the spot where I am now writing, perhaps two hundred paces, and about one hun dred paces from the further end of the woods. There is an open field, beyond which it is somewhat ascend ing to a ridge, about one thousand yards to the woods. CHARLESTOWN. 373 In this field are numerous ledges of rocks and clumps of trees, and a fence runs partly across it, about half way up the ascent. The camp was at rest on Sunday morning; the pickets, unfortunately, were posted near by, and all seemed to feel a sense of security, which was hardly warranted by the little inteUigence that could be gathered of the enemy. George did not rise until late; their breakfast was late, and eaten in perfect quiet. I stood upon the ground where they ate, and Mr. Little pointed out where their tent was pitched. Just before eleven o'clock, the enemy advanced their picket line, and commenced a fire, which grew so heavy and near that the whole regiment was turned out, and formed in line just within the edge of the woods. They then advanced in line of battle. Colonel ChamberUn's battalion moved straight up the field which I have described, with George riding coolly and quietly upon its right, a little in advance of the line, a most conspicuous mark for the sharpshooters concealed behind the rocks and trees, and in the corn fields upon the left, where the Second Battalion was advancing. The men had just pushed off the top raUs of the fence across the field, and climbed over. George had ridden through, and advanced perhaps twenty feet to a little rising ground, where he was hit. He was about to deploy his battalion as skirmishers. The firing was not at the time considered heavy, and the enemy, I think, was not visible. He rode a httle way, and then let himseU down from his horse, and was assisted back to the fence. He immediately sent an urgent mes sage to Colonel Warner to come to him. The Colonel was deploying his men, and did not come until a sec ond messenger reached him. One of George's men told 374 CHARLESTOWN. me to-day that he told Colonel Warner that he could die willingly if it were not for his wife. He told me One evening, not a dozen miles from here, that when he entered the army he did so with a full understand ing of the danger attending it; that he did not expect to escape, and was prepared to m^et whatever fate be fell him, but since his marriage he had felt differently ; that he wanted to live ; that he felt it his duty to take care of himself for his wife's sake. He was thinking of you constantly, and always troubled lest your anxiety for him should seriously affect your health. * * » I had a very pleasant ride to Harper's Ferry, in his company, on Tuesday, August 9th. Wednesday morning, before eight, we started up the valley, and on Friday after noon went into camp at Cedar creek, just north of Stras- burg. I was ordered on picket with my detachment, and did not get back to camp until the day following, just at dark. The next day — Sunday — towards night, I learned that the Second Division of the Sixth Corps was lying on the road towards Strasburg ; and obtaining leave from my brigade commander, I rode out to find Colonel Chamber lin. A.fter a half hour's gallop through different camps, I found the Eleventh Vermont, rode straight to his tent, and jumped off as I caught sight of the Colonel lying on his blankets. He was looking quite poorly, and I learned that he had been suffering several days with diarrhoea, but was then improving. I remember that I felt gratified at his evident pleasure at seeing me, as he said, "I am glad you have come, Aleck, for I have been blue all day." He promised to visit me, at my camp, the next day, if he felt strong enough, and cau tioned me not to mention his illness in my letters home, for fear that you would be unnecessarily alarmed. As he did not come over the next day (Monday), I rode CHARLESTOWN. 375 again to his camp, arriving there just at dusk, and remaining untU after tattoo. It was to me a very pleasant visit. Part of the time his friends Major Walker and Mr. Little were present. Ho seemed much better in health and spirts. I started to go two or three times, but his "Don't go yet, Aleck," kept me until I became alarmed at the late ness of the hour, and mounted quickly, saying, "Well, I shall not come back this time," galloped all the way back to camp. I never saw him again. I got to my camp just in time to get my command ready to march, and at eleven o'clock we moved out upon the Winchester road. The Sixth Corps foUowed towards morning. Mr. Little says, that on the next Friday evening, (August 19th,) he, George, received letters from you, and one from Mary to me, in his care ; that on the next morn ing (Saturday) he rode out to find me, and was informed that our corps was five miles distant, and that it would be imprudent to try to visit us unless a train was going. He was misinformed. Our corps lay to the left, less than a mile distant, and our camp the nearest in the corps. On Sunday, had I known that he was wounded, and where he was, I could have been with him in twenty min utes, I went on as field officer of the day at 1 p, m. My picket line was close to those of the Sixth Corps, I was with the officer who commanded their skirmishers at five in the afternoon, and extended my picket behind his line. Standing upon the spot where he fell yesterday, I could see plainly to the left the ground where I rode and sat during that afternoon, I cannot forget, and cannot cease to regret that I was unnecessarily kept in ignorance of his wound, until I learned it by -accident, and then too late to see him. It was very hard to think that I was so near and could not see him, * * * Your affectionate brother, Aleck, 376 CHARLESTOWN, LETTER FROM COL. WARNER TO MRS. GEORGE E. CHAMBERLIN. Camp Clifton, Va., September 11, 1864. Mrs, G, E. Chamberlin: My Dear Madam — The painful task of communicating to you the sad intelligence of your husband's death de volved upon Chaplain Little, who was his most intimate friend in life, and was with him in his last moments, I have purposely delayed addressing you until time could abate the first intensity of your grief. To us. Colonel Chamberlin is associated with all that is chiv alrous and manly. His wound was received while lead ing his battalion with the utmost gallantry. His high sense of honor and nice perception of right, and his rigid discharge of duty, render him an irreparable loss to the regiment and the service. At the time the wound was received, the regiment was advancing "in line of battle." Colonel Chamber hn sent for me at once, and I joined him as quickly as possible. Even then it was apparent that the wound was mortal, and he seemed conscious of it. I had him conveyed out of fire as rapidly as his condition would admit of, and held his hand until he was out of dan ger's way. During the whole time not a groan nor a complaint escaped him. His chief anxiety seemed to be for you. He told me to tell you "how much he loved you." This was often repeated, and seemed to be the burden of his thoughts. When I parted with him, he said that we should not meet again. I then left Lieu tenant J. A, Lewis, who was acting on my staff, in charge of him. He reported a few moments later that he was in the hands of the chaplain and surgeon. All this occurred in less time than I can write it. On a battle-field everything is indelibly impressed upon one's CHARLESTOWN, 377 mind, but minutes correspond to hours, I shall always regret not having- been permitted to be with him longer, but my anxiety was in a great measure removed when I learned that Chaplain Little was with him. I enclose a,, communication just received from Adju tant-General Washburn, which may be of interest to you as evidence of the high appreciation in which he was held by all who became acquainted with him offi cially. My dear madam, need I assure you that you have my warmest sympathy in your affiiction. I am madam, with high sentiments of regard. Very truly, J. M. Warner. Col. James M. Warner, Eleventh Eegiment, Vermont Volunteers : Sir — I have the pleasure of acknowledging yours of the 27th ult., with report of the engagement of the 21st, etc. The loss of Lieutenant-Colonel Chamberlin has been felt in the State most severely. He was a noble young man, active and energetic, beloved and respected at home, and had earned for himself the reputation of a gallant and accomplished officer. His name is added to the roll of honor of Vermont. His place cannot be made good. Peter T. Washburn. 378 CHARLESTOWN, CONTRIBUTION FROM REV, ARTHUR LITTLE, We are indebted to Eeverend Arthur Little for the fol lowing account of the 21st of August : On Saturday night, August 20th, the Vermont Brigade went into camp in a beautiful forest, near Charlestown, with the hope of spending a restful Sabbath day. The night was peaceful and brought refreshing sleep to a weary band of soldiers. The morning dawned with its hallowed light, bringing benediction to all hearts and giving promise of a day of sacred rest. Leisurely, Colonel Chamberlin and his tent mate rose, breakfasted, prepared for inspection, and arranged their tent so that it might be as homelike and inviting as possible. They were fondly hoping to devote the peace ful hours to reading, thoughts of home, sweet conversa tion and needed rest. But the stillness of the morning hour was soon broken by the noise of rapid musketry firing in our front. Nearer and nearer it came — more distinct and menacing it grew — until it was evident that an engagement was at hand. Orders were hurriedly given to strike tents and fall in line of battle. Swiftly were they obeyed. Mounted upon his splendid gray horse, with characteristic promptness and bravery, at the head of his battalion, thinking of nothing else but duty. Colonel Chamberlin hastened to the scene of action. Almost immediately, in the first heroic onset, while urging his valorous command to deeds of soldierly daring, with face to the foe, he received a mortal wound. He was taken by a comrade from his horse, assisted to the rear, conveyed to a dwelling in the village of Char lestown and placed on a comfortable bed. The best of medical skill was summoned. His friend, the chaplain of the regiment, remained by his bedside during the day. CHARLESTOWN, 379 So intense was his pain that it was with great difficuUy that he could talk, and yet his mind was supreme over his body even in the midst of his sufferings. He spoke of his desire to live that he might realize the high aims which he had distinctly set before himself as pos sible. He spoke tenderly and chivalrously of his young wife, of his family in the far off Vermont home, of the future, and of his readiness, if it were God's wUl, to die. The weary, painful day lengthencl to evening, and with it came an order for the army to fall back to Harper's Ferry. And such are the stern necessities of war that the wounded must be carried with the army or left to their fate in the hands of the enemy. Though he had been sinking rapidly during the day. Colonel Chamber lin must be moved. As tenderly and gently as loving hands and hearts could do it, he was carried upon the bed where he had been lying, and made as comforta ble as possible in the ambulance. It was a long night's ride, and would have been wearisome to one in health. But with a patience and courage that were sublime, without a murmur, he acquiesced in what seemed to be best. When the hospital was reached at Sandy Hook, in the early morning, he was too feeble to speak — was almost gone. In the arms of one who loved him like a brother — the life-work ended — the imperishable record made — the sacrifice complete — the chivalrous husband, dutiful son, loving brother, gallant officer, peacefully fell asleep at break of day, and the radiant light of Heaven greeted his enraptured vision. "They said he died;— It seems to me That, after hours of pain and strife. He slept, one morning, peacefully. And woke to everlasting life." EPHRAIM CHAMBERLIN, Born in Wheelock, Vermont, May 4, 1808. Died in Lincoln, Illinois, April, 12, 1866. MARY CHAMBERLIN REDINGTON, Born in Lyndon, Vermont, September 23, 1840. Died in Chicago, Illinois, April 23, 1880. A TRIBUTE MEMORY OF ILEXAIDER aiRDIMR. Colonel of the Fourteenth Regiment New Hampshire Volunteers, who Fell Mortally Wounded at the Sanguinary Battle near Winches ter, Virginia, September 19, 1864, and Died in the Hospital in Win chester, on the 7th day ot October, A. D. 1864. It seems natural and fitting to inscribe and enshrine here the name of this brave and noble man— brother to our brother, not only by the tie of one idolized both as wife and sister, but by real congeniality of mind and spirit. But a few days elapsed after the tender young wife had drank her overflowing cup of sorrow, until it was poured into it yet again; and she went again to the bloody battlefield to say farewell to a brother, whose love for her had been a leading element in her life. He was all in his family circle that a son and brother could be, in the home of a widowed mother. His hopes were high ; his talents unusual ; his life bound in with that of wife, son and daughter. But all was laid upon his country's altar. 384 COLONEL ALEXANDER GARDINER. The following sketch of his life is taken from his funeral sermon, delivered at Claremont, N. H., by the chaplain of the Fourteenth Eegiment: "Colonel Gardiner was a native of New York, born in the year 1833, and was admitted to the bar, in the city of New York, at the age of twenty-two. After having there practiced law one year, he went to Kansas, with the intention of practicing in his profession, and also of assisting Col. Dayton in the publishing of a paper. Their business connected with the paper was soon broken up by the border ruffians, and, with the same devotion to freedom and justice which has ever characterized him — which led him to enlist in his country's service in the dark hour of her peril, he offered his services in the Kansas war, to aid in defending that country from the cruelty and barbarism of the Missourians. He was therefore no stranger to the hardships, exposures and deprivations incident to the lives of the Free- States men ; and then and there those ties that had previously bound him to the party which was forcing slavery into Kansas by fraud and by the bayonet, were snapt asunder. In changing his political views, we have an index of his whole character, — no prejudice blinded his eyes to truth, and no pary-ties could prevent him from doing justice, though the act might involve the m'ost terrible consequences. He returned from Kansas with his health very much impaired, and having lost many things of great value, especially those left him by his father. From that time he became a bold and earnest advocate of liberty and equal rights, and held in utter abhorrence that system of slavery which then crimsoned the soil of Kansas. COLONEL ALEXANDER GARDINER. 385 In the Spring of 1859 Colonel Gardiner \\^nt to Clare mont, N. H., and when his country called him to its ser vice, no young man in the county of Sullivan had a more brilliant promise of success in his profession. He entered the Fourteenth Eegiment of New Hamp shire Volunteers as adjutant, was afterward promoted to the majority, and received a colonel's commission just before the sanguinary conflict at Winchester, Sep tember 19th, where he received his death wound. He was in the hands of the enemy five hours after he re ceived his wound. They robbed him of his sword, and even drew the boots from his mangled limbs. Such has been the life of Colonel Gardiner — short, but full of meaning, varied and full of interesting incidents. There are three distinct periods in his life, to which I will particularly allude — presenting his char acter in three distinct spheres, — in each of which it was my privilege to be intimately acquainted with him : as a scholar in K. U. Academy, a lawyer in Claremont, a soldier and officer in the army. As a student he was diligent, earnest in the pursuit of knowledge, with a mind open to conviction, ever making inquiries, but with the greatest modesty ; obedient to all rules, prompt in the discharge of every duty. He was remarkable for his gentlemanly bearing towards his teachers, show ing them the greatest respect, highly appreciating their instruction, and commanding in turn their respect and admiration. By his genial spirit, and cheerful disposi tion, and social qualities, he secured the friendship and won the hearts of all his associates. Coming among us a stranger, we knew him only to love him. As a lawyer he was thoroughly versed in the great principles of his profession, constantly studying and investigating authorities, so that he gained the confi —25 386 COLONEL ALEXANDER GARDINER. dence of th*e community as a safe counselor and a successful pleader at the bar. He not only possessed a strong love, but the highest respect for his profession ; hence, he was modest and cautious in giving legal ad vice, refusing to manage cases of a doubtful character, and manifested the highest sense of honor, not only in the management of his professional business, but in all his intercourse with those of the legal profession. Probably no young man ever acquired a reputation for ability, for honor and integrity more rapidly than did he. That his knowledge and ability in the profession of arms were highly appreciated, there can be no better proof than this fact — that he entered the army a lieu tenant, and fell upon the battle-field a colonel, leading his men into the deadly fight. His exceedingly keen sense of propriety led him to be very rigid in his re quirements of soldiers. He spared no pains in inform ing himself of his duties, and avoided no hardships in their performance. In acquiring a knowledge of mili tary tactics, he manifested the same zeal in his inves tigations of authors and authorities, as he had when a student and a lawyer; he never considered his work done, as k student, until the theory learned had been put into practice. Combing theory with practice he became an accomplished officer, graceful and exact in all his movements. His bravery was proved and fully illustrated in the battle in which he received his death wounds. He was not unmindful of the moral and re- Ugious wants of the soldiers. Though not a professor of religion, he encouraged the chaplain, and often com mended him for his efforts to check vice in the camp and improve the morals of the regiment. But the phase of character that I should love to dwell upon, on this occasion, is that which was particularly COLONEL ALEXANDER GARDINER. 387 developed in his last days. The testimony of friends that watched around him, during the painful closing scenes of his life, and of the chaplain that administered to his spiritual comfort, in those last trying hours, is, that he had a Christian's hope to sustain him under his extreme sufferings, and died in the full triumphs of faith. He was unwUling to leave the world until he had publicly professed his faith and interest in the Saviour, and had left on record his confidence in His atoning blood. Hence, two weeks ago to-day, in an upper chamber, far away in the enemy's country, together with his companion, he united with the church of Christ, — consecrating what of life remained to the service of his Master, sincerely regretting that he had not before enlisted in Christ's service, and stating his determination — if God should spare his life — to consecrate it wholly to Him. Much of his time, in those days of his suffering, was spent in con versation upon religious topics, and listening to the read ing of God's word, and in prayer ; and he found in his own experience the truth of the text verified — that though aU earthly things fail "The word of the Lord endures." Many victories have been achieved upon the field since the commencement of this war, but none greater or more glorious in its results than that achieved by Colonel Gardiner in his last days. By the grace of God he over came the fear of death, and death itself— so that he could exclaim, "0, death, where is thy sting? 0, grave, where is thy victory? Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." We would on this occasion tender our sympathies, and address a word of consolation to the widow of our deceased friend. This 'fiery ordeal, I am aware, did not com mence when the message came flying over the wires, informing you of the mortal wound of your husband,— 388 COLONEL ALEXANDER GARDINER. but when, at the call of his country, stern duty said "go,' and he tore himself away from his dear home — that little world of affections. That separation was like snapping the heartstrings that bound you to the dearest object of your love — such a separation as has sent desolation and sorrow into once happy families all over our land. The deep solicitude for your little ones at home, the painful anxiety for your loved one abroad, the terrible uncer tainty respecting his fate, — fearing that he might be marching to the deadly conflict ; that he might be suffer ing from want of food and clothing ; that he might be sick in hospital, or pining away in a rebel prison ; these and other things which your imagination could summon before you, have, through many a weary day and lonely night, filled your eyes with tears, and your heart with pain to which most are strangers but the soldier's wife and mother. * * * I close with one word to the neighbors and townsmen of our friend. Many brave men have gone from your midst, leaving kind friends and pleasant homes, to fight for the stars and stripes — the banner of civilization, of liberty, of justice. They have followed those colors amid bursting shells and flying balls, even into the strongholds of the enemy ; and when they have been surrounded, the men you have sent forth have never deserted the old flag, but have shed their blood for its defense — keeping hold, even in the death-struggle, of its precious folds. Loyal men were they, loving their coun try and its institutions, hating rebellion, secession and slavery ; sacrificing their lives in order to preserve, for you and your children, the precious interests purchased and bequeathed to you by your fathers. Gardiner and Chaffin and Paul, and many others, you can never orget as precious sacrifices offered upon the altar of your COLONEL ALEXANDER GARDINER. 389 country. These men I have seen on the march, in the field, in camp, and some of them in the hospital. True patriots, brave and faithful soldiers, I knew them to be. Let their memories be precious ; and, as you shed the tear over their graves, remember kindly the wives and chUdren of the heroes who have fallen in this terrible conflict. Let the lifeless remains and the mangled bodies of these martyrs for their country, as they are brought back to you, teach you lessons of patriotism, of self-sac rifice, and urge you on to still greater efforts for your country's good ; and, above all, beware how, by word or deed, you give encouragement to those cruel traitors who are shedding the noblest blood of our nation, and robbing her of her best citizens." The memorial pamphlet alsfe contained the following contribution from the pen of Eev. Arthur Little : "I speak of Colonel Gardiner as I last saw him, and attempted to minister somewhat to his wants, during those last terrible days and hours, where, the battle all fought, his armor off, covered with honorable wounds, away from home, in weakness and pain, he had laid down to die. There was 'an eloquence in every glance of the eye, in every tone of voice, in every gesture of the hand, and in every movement, more touching and pathetic than words merely can be. Heaven, in mercy, gave him, except at brief intervals, the possession of consciousness untU the last hour of his life. While this rendered him keenly sensitive to pain, it afforded him the precious privilege and comfort of communing with those he loved; and there in that chamber of death— Ughted up by the visible presence and gentle ministers of those dearer to himself than his own life, and I doubt not, by the unseen presence of those min istering spirits sent by a kind Father on errands of 390 COLONEL ALEXANDER GARDINER. mercy to those in distress — it was our privilege to see an exhibition of those pleasing traits of character which so much endeared us to him when in health and strength. That affectionate, genial and confiding nature, which drew one irresistibly towards him ; that sacred regard for friendship and attachment to friends, which prompted him 'to grapple them to his soul with hooks of steel;' that nice sense of honor which caused him to despise every kind of meanness and hypocrisy; that careful regard for propriety in conduct, in speech, and in his intercourse with others ; that sensitiveness of feelings in respect to his treatment by others, his good name, and the esteem in which he was held by his associates ; that sense of gratitude for any little attention ; all these elements in his character, familiar to those who knew him, shone out with peculiar luster during the last weeks of his life, nor did his intense pain crush out that earnest, enthusiastic spirit, which we remember with so much pleasure. Whenever he referred to the terrific charge in which he fell, and to the brave boys whom he led, his soul seemed to be on fire, and his countenance to glow with a singular fervor, as he entered into the details of the engagement ; there was a charm in his eloquence truly natural — it was the eloquence of expiring manhood, kindling up with an unsual luster, Uke the sun just before the setting. But what is most worthy of record, is the spirit with which he endured those tedious, protracted days and weeks of the keenest sufferings of which the body is susceptible — not a word of complaint, not a murmur escaped his lips ; and it is with much satisfaction that we can record the calm, familiar and considerate man ner in which he spoke of dying, —of his fitness for the COLONEL ALEXANDER GARDINER. 391 event, and of his hopes and fears, — of the unseen world, of the society he should there meet, making special reference to a dear and noble brother-in-law who had gone only a few weeks before him in the same way, — of the loved ones whom he was to leave behind, — of his business relations, — of his endeavors to serve the Saviour, — of the good men of God, — of his personal unworthiness, his wont of fidelity in the service of God in the past, and of the unbounded mercy of Christ. Sometimes he expressed a fear — to use his words — "that the pearly gates might be closed against him," but these doubts seemed soon to vanish. At his own request, devotional exercises were frequently conducted at his bedside. And I wish it were in my power to make others un derstand what a sacred and hallowed place that dying room at such times became, — how, when we read the sustaining and comforting words of Jesus, knelt in prayer, and sung the familiar and beautiful songs of Zion, — he himself mingling his failing voice with the plaintive tones of a devoted wife, an anxious mother, and loving sisters, — all our hearts seemed to be lifted up Heavenward, and Heaven to be brought down to earth ; we all felt — he more than all — that these were precious seasons. "I cannot forbear relating with what a beautiful sim plicity he spoke of his habit of prayer while with his regiment. I use his own words: "It was my habit almost always, before retiring for the night, to repeat those little prayers taught me, years ago, by my dea'r mother — 'Now I lay me down to sleep,' and 'Jesus, gentle Shepherd,' etc. At first it seemed to me they were intended only for little chUdren, and then I thought that I, after all, was but a little child.' ' Here, truly, is exhibited a christian spirit." 392 OoNOLUsioN. Thus were the souls of strong men melted in the cru cible of those trying events — nay, rather should I say, thus were men with hearts of flesh nerved to do bold deeds, endure suffering, and even to meet death itself, by the demands of the situation. We call him brave who yields without flinching to the approaches of inevitable death, but what shall we say of those who voluntarily went out to meet it, that we might live and enjoy the blessings of living? We must ' not forget that men's lives were as dear to them in that day as in this. They loved comfort and luxury, home and wife and children, as men do to-day. Those years may be near to us in some respects, but considered as days when our country called for the blood of her citi zens, they seem far away and almost inconceivable. It is due to the hundreds of thousands who perished in that awful past, that it should not become a vague and dis tant picture, the sharpness of its outlines lost in falla cious generalities through the waning perspective of time. To appreciate the sacrifices of such as these to whose memory the pages of this book are devoted, let each one put himself in their place, and estimate the cost of separation from those dearer than self, of the renunciation of life-long hopes and ambitions, of the steady endurance of hardship and danger, and of that sort of courage required to take life in the hand and march up to the mouth of the guns. Then and only then can we appreciate such heroism as it deserves, and fully recognize the value of our blood- bought prin ciples and institutions. Surely if they cost so much they should be guarded and upheld with most zealous loyalty, protected in inviolate purity, and defended with generous abnegations. CONCLUSION, 393 Mrs. Browning says : " How scant the gardens, if the graves were fewer." Let not our gardens, which were sown in travail of spirit and mortal agony, be reaped by selfish or polluted hands, in worthless tares or in degraded and noxious harvests. ' 'Soon shall we Die also! and, that then our periods Of life may round themselves to memory. As smoothly as on our graves the burial- sods. We now must look to it to excel as ye. And bear our age as tar, unlimited By the last mind-mark, so, to be Invoked By future generations, as their dead." *^^i;