|
Okolona, Miss. Sept. 26 1872
Mrs. Anderson,
I saw the announcement of Gen. Anderson's death a few days ago and have felt
ever since that I wanted to write to you. But what can I say, which would mitigate your
grief for the loss of such a husband? I can only give you assurance of my heartfelt
sympathy for your irreparable loss, and mingle my tears with yours. A true patriot, a
gallant soldier, and a great man has fallen. The world must say this, for his merits
demand such a tribute. To you and me, he was more. We would have loved him if the
whole world had denounced him. He was my friend, tried and true, and to you, a
husband around whom all your woman's affections were turned. Why could not the blow
have fallen on someone who could have been better spared? God knows best. Let us
bow in humble submission to His will, and trust His grace for strength to support you in
your afflictions.
Your friend,
W.F. Tucker
A Col. & then Brig Genl. who followed him from Shiloh to the close of the war & has
now joined him on the other shore. He was wounded first in his right arm, after in his
left, & returned to the Army when he held his bridal [bridle] in his mouth. We had no
truer or more gallant soldier.
Transcribed by Christopher A. Baker, University of Florida, 2008.
|
RSS
