Southern Historical Society Papers, Volume 37.
Reverend J. William Jones, Ed.

[311]

Heroism of Marylanders.

As they grew in number their reputation and friends increased. They were soon too numerous to remain with me, and able to take care of themselves. It was here I learned to admire, respect and love them for all the qualities which endear soldiers to their officers. I tell you now, when I see you standing high above all other soldiers and alone, that my heart swells with pride to think that your career, so bright and glorious, was linked in a small degree with my old regiment. Would that I could see the mothers and sisters of every man of this proud old command, and tell them how well you have represented your State and our cause. But the people of Virginia will not forget you. The fame you have won in after years will be guarded by old Virginia with the pride she feels in her own true sons. You have fought the good fight, and the few remaining members of this old command and of Company K, might well say:

When I remember all
     The friends, so linked together,
I've seen around me fall
     Like leaves in wintry weather,
I feel like one who treads alone
     Some banquet hall deserted,
Whose lights are fled and garlands dead
     And all but me departed.

It becomes us now to separate, but the ties which have so long bound us together will not be forgotten. They will live in memory, and in after years will revive amidst our joys and dangers, and whenever we meet we may say, “This is my old and familiar friend.”

The cause is not dead. I feel sure the great battle is yet to be fought. I have ordered the “Old Brigade” to remain at home and be ready, and whenever and wherever we are called, I know the gallant Colonel Dorsey and his braves will rally again, and though Maryland and Virginia are now overpowered, we will yet join hands and fling our glorious battle flags to the breeze as the emblem of their majesty and strength. [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.