Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 09.djvu/47

38 true, but whether true or false, it was that conviction that fired his heart and nerved his arm to the last.

He, sirs, was a specimen of our Southern soldiery. Like him were the men whose deeds of daring and patriotism have rendered immortal the name of this old battalion of artillery. Like him were Brown, Watson, McCarthy and the men who sank with them in a burial of blood. Like him were thousands who fell beneath our flag—

, April 13th, 1804.

Dear Sir,—Having a direct opportunity for the conveyance of a letter to Knoxville, I embrace it to address a few lines to you. The opportunity is extremely grateful to me, as I had not the pleasure of having that conversation that I wished yesterday when we met on the road. Acts of disinterested friendship always leave a lasting impression upon my mind, and always remembered with the liveliest emotions of gratitude by me. Your disinterested friendship towards me on a recent occasion merits and receives all those lively sensations that they ought to inspire in a susceptible breast; and should the chance fall upon me (of which I have not a sanguine hope), my endeavors shall be that the feelings of those of my friends that recommended me never shall be corroded, their minds filled with regret for the action, and, let the choice fall on whom it may, my gratitude towards my friends will be the same; and as long as my breast beats with life, it will beat high with lively sensations for your friendship upon this occasion. I write in haste and in a crowd. I shall write you from the city. Receive assurances of my warmest esteem and respect. . George W. Campbell, Esp.