[47]
The allusion in the columns of the Times to the ‘Grapevine’ and ‘Fresh Fish’ will be recognized by old soldiers, the former being applied to the rumors of events occurring outside the prison that were supposed to be communicated through the ‘grapevine,’ or ‘underground telegraph’ line.
‘Fresh Fish’ was the term applied to new arrivals, captured on recent battle-fields.
Upon their entrance to the fort they were greeted with the cry of ‘Fresh Fish’ by all the old residents, and immediately interviewed to learn the latest from the outside world, and if ‘Lee had whipped 'em again.’
The Times is dated April 8th--the day before Lee surrendered the remnants of the Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox—and it is presumed that no later number of the Times was issued, but that the occupants of the different ‘divisions’ were soon released and wended their way to their homes in Dixie land.
William Miller Owen. Springfield Republican.
