William W. Bennett, A narrative of the great revival which prevailed in the Southern armies during the late Civil War

[396] side, and his sufferings were intense and unremitted. Still his mind was fixed upon God. “Chaplain,” said he to me, “I am dying. I have done my duty. I wish I could be spared to see victory secured to my brave comrades, but it is the will of God, and I cheerfully submit. I am suffering a thousand deaths, but when I think upon the sufferings of my Saviour, that he endured ten thousands more than I for the salvation of my soul, my sufferings are nothing.” Then he would fervently pray, and besought me to pray with him, which I did. This comforted him greatly, so that he almost shouted for joy. “Chaplain,” said he, “I have three motherless children in Louisiana, and could I only gaze once more upon them, could I but fold them to my breast, could I but kiss them good-bye, I would die contented; but God's will be done. I commit them into the hands of my Heavenly Father. I want them instructed to know and serve God that they may meet me in heaven.”

One of his companions, who had brought him out of the trenches, was kneeling over him and weeping bitterly. “Chaplain,” said the dying soldier, “this is the best friend I have in the army; pray for him that he may meet me in heaven.”

When asked what word he desired to leave with his company, he said, “Tell them to be better boys. Some of them are reckless and wicked. Tell them to repent, serve God, be good soldiers, and meet me in heaven.”

When asked how he felt in view of death, he said, “I have no fears; all is clear. Jesus died for me; I know he will save me. Blessed be the Lord.” His Colonel passing by, came to his side and said, “Is this you, Dawson? I am sorry to find you so dreadfully wounded?”

“Yes, Colonel, I am dying, but I am going home to heaven. I have tried to do my duty. It is God's will, and I cheerfully give myself up a sacrifice on the altar of my country.”

He then committed himself to God and lingered for