Caroline E. Whitcomb, History of the Second Massachusetts Battery of Light Artillery (Nims' Battery): 1861-1865, compiled from records of the Rebellion, official reports, diaries and rosters

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‘ [73] command, and we hope that hereafter, in what position soever you may be placed-whether in command of the 2d Massachusetts Battery or in a higher station — the same good feeling may exist between you and those under your command that has ever existed between yourself and the members of this battery.’

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Reply

‘Fellow Soldiers of the 2d Massachusetts Battery—I cannot express to you the feelings of surprise and astonishment with which the present occasion had filled me. I need not remind you that I am no speech maker, for you are well aware that I am a man of but few words. I fear, however, that you have overrated the little it has laid in my power to do for your comfort, welfare and efficiency. But of one thing, I feel conscious, gentlemen, and that is, that I have endeavored to do my duty by you, by my country, and by myself. Rest assured that I shall ever look upon the present as one of the happiest moments of my life, and that your highly prized gift shall never be drawn but in the cause of freedom and of our common country. Accept, gentlemen, my sincere and heartfelt thanks.’

The boys dispersed to their quarters with six rousing cheers for Captain Nims, who, truth to say, was almost overpowered by his feelings, so completely was he taken by surprise.

We also quote the Special Order No 1 issued April 28, as still further indicating the honor given to the battery by commander and other officers.