William Schouler, A history of Massachusetts in the Civil War: Volume 1

[649] of the Commonwealth (one of the earliest who accepted a regimental command under the appointment of the Governor of Massachusetts), and of this grand column of scarred and heroic veterans who guard them home, they are returned with honors becoming relics so venerable, soldiers so brave, and citizens so beloved.

Proud memories of many fields; sweet memories alike of valor and friendship; sad memories of fraternal strife; tender memories of our fallen brothers and sons, whose dying eyes looked last upon their flaming folds; grand memories of heroic virtues, sublime by grief; exultant memories of the great and final victories of our country, our Union, and the righteous cause; thankful memories of a deliverance wrought out for human nature itself, unexampled by any former achievement of arms; immortal memories with immortal honors blended,— twine around these splintered staves, weave themselves along the warp and woof of these familiar flags, war-worn, begrimed, and baptized with blood.

Let the “brave heart, the trusty heart, the deep, unfathomable heart,” in words of more than mortal eloquence uttered, though unexpressed, speak the emotions of grateful veneration for which these lips of mine are alike too feeble and unworthy.

General, I accept these relics in behalf of the people and the Commonwealth. They will be preserved and cherished, amid all the vicissitudes of the future, as mementos of brave men and noble actions.

The pageant then dissolved, and the colors were placed in the Doric Hall of the Capitol, where they will remain to testify to future generations of the courage and endurance manifested by the soldiers of Massachusetts during four of the most eventful years of its history.

After the services, the Governor was pleased to present to the Adjutant-General the original manuscript of the address; on which, in his own handwriting, was the following indorsement—