[451]
It is a matter, also, of legitimate pride, I think, that the Nineteenth Massachusetts regiment can claim to have captured the colors of no less than seven rebel regiments during their term of service, and which fact might offset the loss of one of their own under whatever circumstances.
As the senior officer here of the Nineteenth regiment association (composed of the surviving members) I desire very much to be afforded an opportunity to express the obligation that every member feels to the gentleman through whose instrumentality the flag has been returned.
I venture to beg that His Excellency will transmit to Mr. Edward H. Bissell the sincere thanks of a regiment of brave men for having saved from disgrace the color they had borne through many a conflict.
If anything is needed beyond his own consciousness of a noble action, he can rely upon the warm gratitude of every man and officer of my regiment.
Very sincerely and respectfully,
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Salem Press. Co., Salem, Ma., 1906.
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