Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 31.djvu/266

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tals that our friend did make in social intercourses, and on more formal occasions, of his conversations with General Jackson of the vehement and impetuous outbursts of intense emotion that at times, though rarely, escaping from that strange man, opened to view the workings of his mighty soul, as a chasm in Etna's rugged side lays bare the awful fires within. But what infinite tenderness and ove was there displayed as in his last visit and interview with the dying Gregg and his impassioned grief indeed, his rage at the supposed neglect of that young soldier, who had been committed to his care, when the wounded boy lay dying on the field. We recall, too, the earnest and emphatic declaration he made to Dr. McGuire when, yielding to the advice of those he had called into council, he had abandoned Winchester to the uncontested occupation of Gen- eral Banks: "I will never hold another council of war;" and to this resolution he steadfastly adhered.

How modestly and how reverently our friend would recall those memories of deepest interest to all. How free from vulgar boasting and self-exploitation were all his references to that association which was his reasonable pride and his unfailing comfort. Well might he say: " The noblest heritage I shall hand down to my children is the fact that Stonewall Jackson condescended to hold me and treat me as his friend."

And what more priceless heritage can any man transmit to his posterity than that he was held in trustful friendship by one whom the whole world lauds.

His brethren of both opposing armies unite in according to Hunter McGuire the entire credit of the inauguration of many reforms in the interest of economy and humanity. One, his comrade on Jack- son's staff, who had opportunity for knowing whereof he spoke, has said of him:

"With his personal skill as an army surgeon and ability to advise and direct in the treatment and the operations of others, Dr. McGuire rapidly developed remarkable administrative abil- ity. There was an extensive and immediate work of organization devolved upon him appointments, instructions, supplies to be secured, medical and hospital trains to be arranged, hospitals to be established. All this work, of immense importance, was to be done in the midst of active campaigns, with the army in motion, and often in battle. And in this Dr. McGuire displayed such qualities of comprehension, of promptness, of energy, of command, and of winning confidence and support on every side, that the rising genius