The name of ‘"Old Stonewall"’ seems likely to become as famous as that of ‘ "Old Hickory."’ His last victory appears to have been a crusher.
We know not what may have been the site of
Banks column; but it must have been a very large one if it can stand the loss of 4,000 prisoners, to say nothing of the killed and wounded, which, although not mentioned, must have been considerable since the victorious party lost 100.
In all the transactions of this year,
Jackson has proved himself to be a man of high military genius.
He is very daring, but always upon calculation.
The acts of his which appear rashest, are sure to be found the safes that could have been done.
When he marched for instance, upon
Shields and attacked unnumbering four or five to his one, he found that he was in a difficult position, and the daring was the best way to extricate himself.
He calculated justly.
The suddenness and severity of the blow paralyzed the assailed party, and he could not follow him effectually, whereas had he evaded him, he would but have encouraged him to follow with increased activity.
Besides, this attack, so blamed for rashness at the time, was made, it was said, to prevent
Shields from falling on the flank of
Johnston in his retreat from
Manassas.
Jackson's march against
Milroy, evading
Banks, who was in his front, was a daring enterprise, and a beautiful exhibition of the importance of interior lines.
He struck
Milroy first--crushed him — and then returned to annihilate
Banks.
The whole was boldly conceived, and admirably executed.
It places his name among those of the first military men of the age.
Above all,
Jackson has shown what a bold heart and ready wit can do with the most inadequate means.
Men will follow such a leader anywhere, and never think of turning their backs on any enterprise he may suggest.
He is the man for revolutionary times.
He takes no step backward.
He does not believe in splendid retreats, and seldom makes any at all. He has fought three pitched battles in two months; more than any General ever did except Bonaparts in the first campaign of
Italy.
