[for the Richmond Dispatch.]
in memory of the gallant dead.
Culpeper C. H. Aug. 12.
The survivors of a glorious victory should study how to honor the memory of those who contributed by their deaths so much to its achievement.
Words of praise cost little, and though they afford but small consolation to the bereaved friends of the gallant dead, their absence is painfully observed.
Of those who laid their lives down for the good of their country on the bloody field of Manassas, none deserve more honorable mention than do Holmes and Tucker Conrad, and Peyton Harrison, of Martinsburg.
Though educated strictly in the school of Federalism, and conscientiously opposed to Secession, they did not hesitate to take up arms at the first call of their native State.
They loved their Virginia with an intensity and ardor almost romantic; and their patriotism was purified and exalted by the deep religious feeling with which it was ever associated.
They would have died a thousand deaths to have saved their old mother from one pang of woe, or one blemish of dishonor.--They exhibited as soldiers the gallantry and bravery of knights adorned with the gentler qualities of Christians.
The two Comrade were shot side by side, almost at the same instant.
‘"There they are,"’ said Lieut. Harrison, ‘"together in death as they were in life; let us revenge them;"’ and seizing a musket, he shot the Zouave that had killed Holmes.
A moment afterwards, he, too, fell, and the three noble hearts lay lifeless in sad, but beautiful companionship.
On that terrible field of carnage, the travelers over it turned with sickly horror from the ghastly countenances of the dead that everywhere were presented; but friends and strangers alike stopped to contemplate the placid faces of this group of dead brothers.
They looked like they were sleeping, dreaming sweet, dreams, such was their beauty in death!
A Member of the Second Reg't, Va. 