Re-Enlistments.
We learn that a considerable proportion of the First Regiment Virginia Volunteers, from
Richmond, have already re-enlisted for the war, or signified an intention of doing so. We should expect no loss from the gallant First.
As an indication of the spirit which animates the volunteers of the
South, we append an extract from a private letter written by a member of the Fourth Georgia, to a friend in this city:
‘
"I suppose most of our regiment will re-enlist before the first of May.
The fact is, it will not do for us to go home at this time.--The object for which we came here is no nearer attained than it was a year ago. If we came here to gain public applause and nothing else, why, it will do for us to go home.
But if we came here to fight and defend our county, we ought to stay.
We, every one of us, have as much to fight for as the
Government has. We have our all to fight for; and if we desert our cause at this time, we will deserve public condemnation."
’
Another private letter from a soldier on the
Peninsula, to a relative, says:
‘
"I intend to re-enlist. ** We will need every rain we can muster, more particularly those
now in the field. If, under such circumstances, any prefer to remain in comfort (I) at home, let them do so. I, at least, do not every them.
It would be no comfort to me; every battle lost, every Southerner slain, would bring the flush of shame to my brow, and the sting of guilt to my conscience.
Has not God blessed me with health and strength beyond my expectation?
and shall I return to indulge in slothful ease, while others, weaker, but with more patriotism, take my place, perhaps, to die from exposure?
Is it for such an use I have received the blessing from God?
I believe not. I desire to thank God and do my duty."
’