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[57] consent to remain. But he is very much afraid you will not think that he did not promise to return in good faith, or, to use his own term, that he has “backed out;” so he made me promise, before I returned, that I would explain it to you.

This, then, “is to certify,” gentlemen, that the young Darling aforesaid has not abated his desire in the least degree to serve his country under your especial guidance, although he has consented to devote himself in the more humble capacity of staying at home and minding his mother. Having reached the advanced age of sixteen, he possesses the strength of Hercules, and sagacity of Tacinaque, Agulier's bravery, and the patriotism of Washington, whom you have probably heard mentioned before. Would that he could add to these a few of Methuselah's superfluous years, for youth, though no crime, is very inconvenient in his case. Of course, the advancement of the Black Horse Cavalry is materially retarded, and its glory dimmed for a season; but wherever you are at the end of two years, he is determined to join you. If thou wouldst take me in his place, I would be very happy to go. I believe not only in this war, but fighting in general, and think that if women were permitted to use “knock-down argument,” it would civilize not only their mutual relations, but also their treatment of your much-abused sex.

Meantime, awaiting thy orders, I am respectfully thine,

P. S.--If you are married, please hand this over to your Second Lieutenant.

J. D.

--Cincinnati Press, Dec. 2.

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