The Virginians in the War.
--The Grenads (
Miss)
Appeal contains a letter, from which we take the following extract:
‘
Dearly as I am imbued with the love of my State, I always did say that a Virginia Secessionist could be trusted further than one from the
Gulf States I mean those who manifested that sentiment on the first secession of the States.
The Virginian had everything to lose and nothing to gain, in case a war should grow out of the act. But deeply tied to principle, such principles as those given forth by
Jefferson, they held that above all else, and were willing to sacrifice proparty, life, and all else, to insure that dear prize to posterity.
They did not do this in an enthusiastic, impulsive moment, but and dispassionately, as men who weigh well the consequences.
Their earnestness has been tested in many ways, and in near all exces they have proven themselves consistent patricts, baring their breasts to receive the brunt of the battle, emptying their purses to meat the wants of the country.
The citizens of the
Gulf States who manifested their patrictism are Fronchman does, all in a hurry, while they did right, it did not require half such an effort to become rampant Secessionists; they could easily have professed said creed, because, at that time, none ever thought the war would be brought to their own doors.
In volunteering for the defence of principle they did well, but the bare consent to fight does not exhibit the true patriot.
No, for the assistance most needed in times of war appertain to those noble characteristice of devotion and self sacrifice that distinguished the Spartans of old. Like the grain of corns that was planted among the rocks, it sprang up quickly, because it had not much earth, but when the sun was up it was scorched, for it had no roof; so is the patriotism of some of our people — aye, with shame though I confess it, of some Mississipplans, who are at home.
’
