Columbus Ga. July 22/64.

 

My Dear General.

                                    In the interview which I had the honor to have with you this morning, I was so fully occupied in receiving your communications for Gen^l Hood (which I desired to comprehend so clearly, as to be able to deliver them accurately) that I did not say to you all that it was in my mind and heart to say.

 

                                    Gen^l we may have met for the last time on earth—and if I should fall in the coming battle, I desire to leave some record of my full participation in the noble sentiment which you uttered this morning, when you said that it was "our duty to stand by the government in this trying crisis, under any and all circumstances". And I beg now to assure you of my affection for yourself, and my unqualified confidence in the wisdom & patriotism of our beloved President, whose place, in my humble judgment, could not be supplied by any / living man.

 

                                    It is only at such a moment as this, that I would ask you to find in the inscription upon the sword presented to you by Bate's & my own Brigade, my heartfelt appreciation of your worth, your patriotism and your character.

 

                                    Looking to the future with great hope mingled with anxiety, and joining with you in your prayer to the Lord of Hosts for the success of our cause, and wishing for you the largest measure of happiness and prosperity, I remain, dear Genl, your friend & obt

 

Servt.

J. J. Finley

 

[overwritten]

 

Columbus, Geo.

July 22.64

—————

Judge. J. J. Finley

Brig Genl

—————

His views of our

duty & his appre-

ciation of this cause

& myself.

SOURCES