Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 21.djvu/155

 and Character of Lt.- General D. H. Hill. 147

HEADQUARTERS FOLK'S BRIGADE,

October 16, 1863.

General, In behalf of myself and brigade, allow me to express to you our high appreciation of your uniform kindness in all of your official intercourse with us, and to say to you that although you have not been long with us, you have gained our love, confidence and respect. And that it was with great regret that we heard of your being taken away from us. And in being so taken away, our confi- dence in you as a soldier, gentleman and patriot has not been in the least diminished. We part with you, General, with the greatest regret, and hope some new field may be given you for the display of that generalship that led us to victory at Chickamauga.

Respectfully your friend, [Signed] L. E. POLK, Brigadier -General.

HEADQUARTERS LOWRY'S BRIGADE, MISSION RIDGE, October 16, 1863.

Dear General, Paragraph 2, Special Order No. 33, from Army Headquarters, relieving you from duty in this department, has just been received by me. I take this opportunity to express to you my deep regret at this change. So far as I have heard an expression from the officers and men of this corps, your service with us has been most satisfactory. In the camp and on the march your orders were received and obeyed with the most cordial approval and with the greatest pleasure. The warm devotion that has been created in so short a time will not die while memory lives. In behalf of my brigade, permit me to express our regret on account of your separa- tion from us, and the kindest wishes for your prosperity and happi- ness. For myself, the memories of our short acquaintance will be warmly cherished in a devoted heart of friendship, and the guidance and protection of the unseen hand invoked on you wherever your lot may be cast.

May the glory of victorious fields form a wreath around your name in all time to come, and the memory of your deeds of gallantry and patriotism be cherished in the hearts of a grateful and free people. Respectfully, General, your obedient servant,

[Signed,] M. P. LOWRY,

Brigadier General.

(Since Governor of Mississippi.)