I never for a moment lose sight of the mothers and sisters and white-haired fathers, and children moving quietly about, and dropping the unseen, silent tear in those far-away saddened homes.
Clara Barton.
THANK YOU FROM MY VERY HEART, HIS POOR HEART-BROKEN MOTHER
“Miss Barton:
“Dear Angel of Love and Mercy:—I address these few lines to you hoping to get some information in regard to my son’s remains. He died in August in the dreadful prison pen at Andersonville. I think it was about the ninth day of the month. Did you find when you were there on the list the name of Edward H. Walton, Co. H, 57th Regt. Massachusetts Volunteers? If so, you will confer a great kindness on me, his poor heartbroken Mother, by giving me what information you can. He went from Worcester, Mass.
“Please let me know if you think I could obtain his remains if I should send for them, as I am very anxious to get them. I shall ever remember your great kindness and labor in thus giving me the comfort that you have seen the remains of the poor murdered ones decently buried. I thank you from my very heart and may heaven bless you while you live and when you have done on earth may the richest of heaven’s blessings be yours through that never ending eternity for which thousands of mothers will pray.
“Very respectfully,
“Your humble servant,
(Signed) “Mrs. Dolly Walton,
“Worcester, Mass.