Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 17.djvu/270

 262 Southern Historical Society Papers,

E. Lee tribute on the field of battle, while shot and shell awoke the echoing hills. With as much fervor and patriotism they paid equally as loyal tribute on this occasion ; and the 7th of May, 1890, will go down through many ages as the day when, inspired by enthusiasm, they, with tender hands, hauled the bronze image of their leader to the ground of its permanent resting place.

The Unveiling of the Statue of General Robert E. Lee, at Richmond, Va., May 29th, 1890.

This demonstration in its spontaneity was unique in the history of our country. All hearts were in accord, and there was harmony and entire decorum, notwithstanding that pre- arrangement of organ- izations was precluded, through the absence of knowledge of intend- ing participants in the procession. Many organizations without previous intimation to the directors in Richmond, arrived but a little while before the line was forming, and many joined it whilst it was in motion. Yet there was no confusion, only a little delay as bodies were marched through divided lines resting in the shade. The wants of the waiting were well amended with refreshments from the gracious hands of gentle women.

Memory was turned back to days of anxiety, of peril, of suffering, and of sacrifice. Veneration for a great-hearted and devoted leader — sublime in dutiful performance, was paramount in the breast ol every participant. Bitterness had not lodgment. Amidst crowding images and incidents, patriotism and charity were brightly present The fiat of the sword was unreservedly accepted at Appomattox. The South holds the common interest of our reunited country in its due regard. It earnestly invokes respectful consideration and fraternity.

It was a cloudless day. The atmosphere was balmy and all nature was in its gayest garb.

It was an inspiriting expression of a generous people. No serious accident occurred. Almighty God seemingly gave His countenance. Who should cavil ? The day will never be forgotten by the partici- pants and future generations will have its incidents recounted to them by successive treasurers of its memories.

Never before were so many troops gathered here on peaceful in- tent ; never were decorations of business houses, dwellings, and public buildings so tastefully elaborate, and never before was there such a display of patriotic enthusiasm in this city.