Part 40 (1/2)

12. Almost all the white men in North Carolina were in the ranks of the different regiments and battalions mustered into the Confederate service. Their families were largely dependent upon the pay they received as soldiers. When the Confederate money became worthless, want and suffering appeared in every section, and unhappy wives were clamorous for their husbands' return to avert starvation at home.

13. The suffering families were ever in the minds of the dauntless men who were away facing the enemy, for a direr foe was thinning the blood and blanching the cheeks of wife and child. Therefore, many a hero turned his back on the scenes of his glory and incurred personal ignominy, and sometimes the punishment of death, for desertion.

14. The case of Edward Cooper was in point. He was tried by court-martial for desertion. He declined the aid of a lawyer to defend him, and, as his only defence, handed the presiding judge of the court the following letter, which he had received from his wife:

”My Dear Edward: I have always been proud of you, and since your connection with the Confederate army I have been prouder of you than ever before. I would not have you do anything wrong for the world, but before G.o.d, Edward, unless you come home, we must die. Last night I was aroused by little Eddie's crying. I called and said, ”What is the matter, Eddie? ” And he said, ”O mamma, I am so hungry.” And Lucy, Edward, your darling Lucy, she never complains, but she is growing thinner and thinner every day. And before G.o.d, Edward, unless you come home, we must die. YOUR MARY.”

15. General Cullen Battle and his a.s.sociate members of the court were melted to tears. Although the prisoner had voluntarily returned to his command, they found him guilty, and sentenced him to death, but recommended mercy. General Lee, in reviewing the case, approved the finding but pardoned the unhappy artilleryman, who was afterwards seen by General Battle, standing, pale and b.l.o.o.d.y, as he fired his last round into the retreating Federals. He then fell dead at his post in battle.

QUESTIONS.

1. What year of the war have we now reached? What is said of North Carolina's hopes?

2. What tribute is paid to General Robert E. Lee?

3. What is said of ex-Governor Bragg? What changes were made in the Confederate States Senate?

4. What is said of educational matters at this period?

5. How were the ministers of the gospel faithfully performing their duties?

6. Can you describe the capture of Plymouth by General R. F. Hoke's command?

7. Where was the princ.i.p.al fighting in the spring of 1864?

What is said of Grant's campaign?

8. What losses had North Carolina sustained in this campaign.

9. Describe the battle of Reams' Station. What North Carolina troops captured General Hanc.o.c.k's position?

10. What is said of the depreciation of the Confederate currency?

How was it affecting the people?

11. What was the pay of Confederate soldiers? Mention the prices of some of the necessaries of life.

12. How were the soldiers' families suffering?

13. What is said of the terrible struggle of the women and children?

14. Can you mention the case of Edward Cooper?

15. What was the verdict of the court-martial? What was the ending of this sad case?

CHAPTER LXI.

NORTH CAROLINA AND PEACE-MAKING.

A. D. 1864 TO 1865.