--As the impression has been made upon the minds of some that no person in the military service can be a member of the Confederate Congress, I deem it proper, in justice to myself, to state that I hold no commission in the army, and that there is nothing in the
Constitution to prevent me from acting as your Representative, if you shall think proper to elect me. When this unholy war was commenced against us, I volunteered as a private in the ranks to defend our soil from invasion, and I have sought no commission, because I had no military qualifications or pretensions.
Since my announcement as a candidate to represent you, I have understood that my competitors are engaged in canvassing the
District, and many of my friends have advised me to adopt a similar policy, but, while it would afford me pleasure under other circumstances.
to visit the people of the
District and interchange opinions with them, I cannot quit the service for electioneering purposes, when an advance of the enemy may be made at any moment.
With this brief explanation, I am content to submit my claims to the voters of the
District, feeling well-assured that, in a crisis like the present.
they will not be disposed to require public harangues or personal solicitations as a condition of their support.
It may perhaps, be proper to state for the information of those who are unacquainted with my past political opinions, that I was an early and zealous advocate of the separation of
Virginia from the
Northern States.
In the Virginia Convention, before the 4th day of March last, I submitted the first resolutions which were offered in favor of immediate, absolute, unconditional separation.
I was unwilling that
Virginia should remain for one moment under the dominion of
Mr. Lincoln, or hold political fellowship with those who had elected him upon the principles of the
Chicago platform.
And I was, moreover, convinced that nothing could prevent the iniquitous war which is now upon us, but a firm united front on the part of the entire
South.
Other counsels however prevailed, and the day of separation was postponed.
I refer to this subject now in order that it may be known what my own position has been heretofore, and not for the purpose of raising issues with those who differed with me. On the contrary, it is my most earnest and anxious desire that all past differences of opinion among us shall be forever buried and forgotten.
It is absolutely essential to the success of our cause and the safety of our homes and firesides, that we shall all be united now, and to the honor of the opponents of Secession in
Virginia, it should be remembered that they constitute a large proportion of those who have exchanged the comforts and pleasures of home for the privations and hardships of the tented field.
If I am elected as your representative, I will advocate and vote for a bold and vigorous prosecution of the war, until every inch of our soil is free from the polluting tread of the invader and an honorable peace is secured to us. And I flatter myself that my experience and observation in the camp will enable me to render some service, especially in providing for the comfort and welfare of our volunteers in the field.
Respectfully &c.
Jno. Goode, Jr.
Fairfax, Va. Oct. 21, 1861. oc 23--it
