Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 37.djvu/320

312 "In conclusion, let me urge upon you to remain quiet and keep your armor burnished. You, who struck the first blow in Baltimore and the last in Virginia, have done all that could be asked of you. Had the rest of our officers and men adhered to our cause with the same devotion to-day we would have been free from the Yankees.

"May the God of battles bless you. With many thanks for your generous support and a hearty God bless you. I bid you farewell.

"Brig.-Gen'l, Commanding Division.

"Cloverdale, Botetourt county, Va., April 29, 1865."

The flag, by a vote of the officers and men, was given to Colonel Dorsey. He took each man by the hand, bidding each an affectionate farewell. I was paroled at Harrisonburg, Va., May 7, 1865.

I am not one of those who half-apologize by saying "we fought for what we believed to be right." I think we fought for what was right, and I have never had a regret for the part I took in the strife.

Baltimore, Md., January 29, 1910.