A Praiseworthy act.
The following correspondence has been handed us for publication.
It shows that our soldiers in the field have their hearts in the right place, and acts a noble example for those to follow who remain at home enjoying an abundance:
--The officers and men of the 26th Mississippi regiment,
Davis's brigade, hearing that there is some suffering among the poor women and children of
Richmond, have unanimously agreed that one half of their rations for the next two days he distributed among these poor sufferers.
You will confer a favor by receiving the provisions and causing the distribution to be made as indicated.
I am, sir, very respectfully,
Your obedient servant,
H Hets, Major General.
City Hall,
General: I received your communication informing me that the officers and men of the 26th Mississippi regiment,
Davis's brigade, had unanimously agreed that "one half of their rations for the next two days shall be distributed among the poor women and children of
Richmond"
Whilst every effort of public care and private charity has been directed to the benevolent object of your communication, there may be, in a city under the pressure of such a war as we are now engaged in, instances of privation and distress.
I accept, therefore, General, in behalf of those for whom it is intended, the generous assistance which you have offered.
I shall make known to them the benefactors, who have not only periled their lives in the defence of our homes, but divided their sustenance with the poor and afflicted.
Their prayers will be offered up for your welfare and that of all who are dear to you. I will cause your communication to he transcribed upon the records of the city, that the heroism and humanity which inspired it may never be forgotten.
Under
Providence, our cause must be safe in the hands of men whose valor is thus hallowed by charity, and whose stern devotion to liberty is intertwined with the gentlest and most attractive virtues which adorn our humanity.
Please make known this expression of my regard to the soldiers of the 26th regiment, and assure them of the still deeper gratitude of those who are the recipients of their generous contribution, and accept, for yourself, General, my thanks and highest admiration.
