Page:The McClure Family.djvu/90

70 But Congress soon ordered to the field all who had placed substitutes in the ranks and again home is lied and the soldier's armor girded on. Tie entered the 23id Va. Cavalry, where he continued till the time of his death, which was occasioned by an accidental wound terminating upon the lungs.

Owing to his bravery he was employed in scouting and detached service by his Generals.

At the battle of Piedmont his horse was shot, and near Staunton, as General Hunter in his memorable raid passed through the Valley, he was foremost in a charge and captured several prisoners. He afterwards entered the enemy's camp making discoveries of importance. He was one of a small party of scouts who gladdened the citizens of Timber Ridge and Lexington on the morning of the 14th of June, filling all hearts with joy as the Confederate war-horse and gallant soldiers wound their way along the gloomy waste, and charging into Lexington captured several prisoners while a Yankee regiment was yet in town. As the party rode up to our door we supposed they were 'Jessie Scouts,' and asked if he were a prisoner. He said he was not, and that they were Confederates. Such intelligence after such suspense filled us with emotion.

But there was something in this good citizen and soldier which exalts him above the praise of men. He was a Christian. In early youth he gave himself to Christ and united with the Prasbyterian Church at Bethel. He was cheerful even in war and hopeful under discouragements. He was affectionate and devoted to parents, who yet live to cherish his memory and recount his filial offices. As a husband, he was all that is embraced in that hallowed word. As a father, he was tender and loving, yet manly and dignified.

Death came upon him suddenly, though ready for his coming. He was first to discover that death was approaching, and being asked if he was afraid to die, said 'Oh no, I have long lincesince [sic] given myself to God; 'O God, thou art my Rock, in Thee will I put my trust.' Then bidding all