The Portland daily press., 1862-10-23
COMMUNICATIONS.
Rebel Letter.
BowpoIN COLLEGE, Oct. 2.

BowDoIN COLLEGE, Oct. %, 1862.
To the Editors of the Daily Press The
following letter, written by grandfather to
an officer in the rebel army, may be of interest
as showing the feelings of some of the South
ern people who are very evidently sincere. The
letter is written in the style of the latter part
oflast century, but very legible and neat. 1t
was taken from the portmanteau of rebel of
ficer after the evacuation Of Harpers Ferry,
and there can be no doubt of its genuineness.
The advice given, and the high Christian
and patriotic sentiment which is breathed
through the whole of it seems worthy of bet
cause; and the ideas are such that some ofth
worshippers of wars, who are about to go
forth to war from our own State, might with
advantage apply to themselves. The punctua-
tion and spelling is same as the original
BATON ROUGE, IT, June 1851.
DEAR JOHN AS you are about to enter
in, ito yourI a new profession a few words of
advice may be acceptable to you, and l hope
beneficial.
The Office you hold is an important one.
Your country placing confidence in your in
tegrity, patriotism and capability have granted
you commission TO defend her interests and
her honor.
trust that you will by your conduct show
that you are not unworthy of her confidence
but calmly bravey, and nobly perform your
duty to your country, to your fellow officers,
and the men under your command.
Be firm and decided, but kind and humane to
Ill Al 4
as much as possible keep them from quarreling
and bitter feelings among themselves.
The efficiency of soldier depends very
much upon being in good health and condi-
ton. Therefore take every means To preserve
their health and keep their spirits up. Never
overtax their strength unless some important
act is to he performed. II in good health and
spirits they viii perform great and noble acts
when the occasion demands it. Kind atten-
ton paid to them when sick, or depressed,wil
secure their affection and their services Your
knowledge Of medicine will enable you to do
much for the health and comfort of the men
under your command.
If they have to suffer, as soldiers often do,
endeavor to alleviate them or share with them
Do all in your power to preserve their NOR
ais. A company of demoralized men is unfit
for any great and noble act
If called into action do not foolishly expose
the lives of the men. Endeavor by your con-
duct and counsel to inspire them with bold
determined bravery, that no men can resist.
Be cool and take advantage of every misstep
of the enemy.
But above all seek the aid and protection of
the God of the armies. He alone is able to
give you wisdom, inspire you with courage and
shield you in the day of battle.
Yield cheerful obedience to the laws of
God, and your country, and serve them hon
estly, and faithfully against all their enemies
and opposers whomsoever.
Follow the example of the immortal Wash
ington, who daily prayed that the great God
would bless and protect him and his country.
Bejust, be calm, put your trust in God and
fear not. believe our cause is just, and hope
we shall triumph.
Write to me as often as you can. May God
be your friend and portion.
Your atiectionate grandfather
"P. A. WALKER"
ITO DR.. j. S. GARDNER" MAoUoIT.