"On the field of Fredericksburg one hundred and nine of my brave men were lost to my command. Afterwards, when pestilence stalked through the camp, and amid hardship and privation, one hundred and twenty more were swept away in three short weeks; not all indeed to the silent grave, since a few still linger in hospitals.
"But through the constant efforts of my officers to preserve cleanliness and discipline in the camp, we are happy in bringing back to our friends to-day over seven hundred of those who marched with me from Washington to the banks of the Rappahannock.
"Our duties have been of the most varied kind. But through them all the uniform kindness of the State has at all times watched over us. While we were in camp where pestilence assailed us and want made us suffer, your good ship Elizabeth and Helen brought us much needed supplies; and if your bounty burdened our backs, it certainly lightened our hearts and cheered us on the weary march.
"Let me in conclusion congratulate you, the officers who surround you, and all our citizens, that we arrive at home at a time when every thing is so cheering and prosperous. Gentlemen, nine short months more, and you will see this country a re-united country—a mighty nation, whose arms will be more a shield for every citizen than was ever Rome in her proudest days."
At the conclusion of the collation, the military were dismissed. The Twelfth Regiment were ordered to re-assemble in this city on Wednesday next, at ten o'clock, A. M.
Head-Quarters, Department of the Ohio,
Cincinnati, Ohio, July 17, 1863.
General Orders, No. 115.
On the departure of the Twelfth Regiment Rhode Island Volunteers, at the expiration of their term of enlistment, the Commanding General wishes to express his regret at taking leave of soldiers who, in their brief service, have become veterans. After passing through experiences of great hardship and danger, they will return with the proud satisfaction that, in the ranks of their country's defenders, the reputation of their State has not suffered in their hands.
By command of Maj. Gen. Burnside.