Burlington free press. [volume] (Burlington, Vt.) 1827-1865, 1864-04-01

affections, for it is extremely difficult iu military
matters for interiors in rank and position 10
make their true opinions known. Words need
not express them.
| carry in my hand sword, purchased by
| the attendants and those connected with this
Hospital, many Of whom have already returned
to resume their duties m the field, but they have
! left an expression for you. or New England
manufacture, it bears the polish and refinement
Of New England Selected by one Of Vermont's
noblest sons-Gen. Stannard-it exhibits the
temper and frmnesS of Vermont, that 10 Liberty
has ever been true as STEEL
Enclosed In a beautiful casket donated by
him, you are reminded of the interest hero
ever takes in the men and affairs of his native
tate. Purchased and given by those who have
seen In your keeping, it represents the tenaeity
which exists in hearts made close, by proper
appreciation of the worth of man.-What testi-
monial could possibly have been selected by
them, the better to convey their earnest and
positive regards. Sir, we are satisfied II could
not be placed in better hands, believing, as we
do, when you draw this sword, 1t will ever be in
defence Of the right. in the cause Of virtue and
innocence which the donors have periled 50
much to defend. They would not have you es-
teen il 50 much for its intrinsic value, for 1t is
valueless when compared to the worth Of the
feelings and emotions of the hearts Of those that
gave IT, Aud now have the honor, in behalf Of
my comrades, OF presenting the sword, hoping
that it will be as eheerfuly received as given.
Surgeon Thayer replied rs follows
GentIemen: must confess that ! am no;
little surprised in meeting this assemblage and
listening to what has transpired SINCE | came IL
TO the room
know not what service Of mine merits such
IL, L.. / hav dana moth
ing more than my duties required me, which
have endeavored to discharge as a medical Off
Ger u this hospital in such manner as to pro-
mote tine best interests OF the service without do
ing injustice to the soldiers. Although | have
made some pecuniary sacrihce, and a sacrifice Of
time and comfort in the care Of those who have
been brought to me mutilatei by the missiles Of
war, and Frustrated by sickness, contracted from
exposure and privation in the line Of duty, the
beauty and sslubrity of this locality, these com
Portable buildings and the abundant supply Of
good food, good clothing, medicines-GH the
necessaries and many of the Injuries Of life, 50
literally supplied BY Government, and the kind
care and watchfulness you have always bestow-
ed upon each other "a service oftentimes Of more
value than any in my power TO bestoW,) have
wrought such changes in the condition Of the
sick and wounded soldiers that have been made
happy, and felt that my services were amply re-
warded You have selected beautiful article
as a present for me. Of tue material and work
manship, and handsomely ornamental.
knowing as you DO, that in the exercise Of my
duties am required to make every effort TO
save. rather than destroy life, you cannot expect
that will unsheath this sword and enter the
lists Of mortal combat No, you do not require
Of me such service; you ask me to accept it as
testimonial of your respect and regard for me.
do accept it as such with the greatest pleasure,
and thank you for it; and you may be assured
that Will always keep it IN remembrance Of you;
and wherever your duties may call you in the
service Of your country, or whatever may be
your future Gestinies in this life. my best wishes
will attend you.