To the colored troops of the Arny of the James:
In this army you have been treated not as laborers but as soldiers.
You have shown yourselves worthy of the uniform you wear.
The best officers of the
Union seek to command you.
Your bravery has won the admiration even of those who would be your masters.
Your patriotism, fidelity, and courage have illustrated the best qualities of manhood.
With the bayonet you have unlocked the iron-barred gates of prejudice, opening new fields of freedom, liberty, and equality of right to yourselves and your race forever.
Comrades of the Army of the James, I bid you farewell!
farewell!
