With this conclusive evidence of General Lee’s faith in General Longstreet, how pitiful is the unearned slander that has made the reputation of so many babblers. Longstreet a traitor or imbecile! Out upon it!
One other equally conclusive refutation of this miserable story is: In 1866 General Lee, it seems, determined to write the story of his campaigns,—“his object to disseminate the truth” (would his example had been contagious),—at the close of an affectionate letter to General Longstreet uses these words—words which General Longstreet might have claimed as a charter of nobility, had he not already had his glorious war record to ennoble him:
“I had while in Richmond a great many inquiries after you, and learned you intended commencing business in New Orleans. If you make as good a merchant as you were a soldier, I shall be content. No one will excel you, and no one can wish you more success or more happiness than I. My interest and affection for you will never cease, and my prayers are always offered for your prosperity.
“I am most truly yours,
“R. E. Lee.”
*****
Does any sane man, or silly woman either, believe the noble heart that inspired these words could have asked its tongue to utter the things of General Longstreet that have been falsely attributed to it. Can argument be more cogent or conclusion more conclusive?
General Gordon is, I hope, with General Longstreet. Both are at rest, and I know the “Old War-Horse” of the Army of Northern Virginia, in the presence of his grand old chief, has forgiven his comrade the wrongs done him here. Peace to the ashes of both, the wronged and the wrong-doer.
W. H. Day,
Formerly of First N. C. Infantry.
*****
(Washington, D. C., Star.)
“Longstreet came out of the war with a record for courage and loyalty second to none.”