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diff --git a/28152.txt b/28152.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..50a24b8 --- /dev/null +++ b/28152.txt @@ -0,0 +1,19655 @@ +The Project Gutenberg eBook of Sword and Pen, by John Algernon Owens + + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + + + + +Title: Sword and Pen + Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier + + +Author: John Algernon Owens + + + +Release Date: February 21, 2009 [eBook #28152] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII) + + +***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SWORD AND PEN*** + + +E-text prepared by Juliet Sutherland, David Cortesi, and the Project +Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team (https://www.pgdp.net) + + + +Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this + file which includes the original illustrations. + See 28152-h.htm or 28152-h.zip: + (https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/2/8/1/5/28152/28152-h/28152-h.htm) + or + (https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/2/8/1/5/28152/28152-h.zip) + + +Transcriber's note: + + Several minor typographical errors have been corrected in + transcribing this work: contineu, secresy, bubling, + reconnoissance, cotemporary, delived (should be delivered), + eat (ate), Alleghany, amendmet, lage (large). Otherwise the + text is original and retains some inconsistent or outdated + spellings. + + The original contains two lengthy addenda supplied by the + publisher which were not named in the Table of Contents. + Entries for these have been added to the Contents for + the convenience of the reader. + + Despite the many testimonials in this book, as of 2008, the + source of the Mississippi is considered to be Lake Itasca. + Following a five-month investigation in 1891 it was decided + that the stream from Elk Lake (the body that Glazier would + have called Lake Glazier) into Itasca is too insignificant + to be deemed the river's source. Both lakes can be seen, + looking much as they do in the maps in this book, by directing + any online mapping service to 47 deg.11'N, 95 deg.14'W. + + + + + +SWORD AND PEN + + * * * * * + +POPULAR WORKS OF + +Captain Willard Glazier. + +THE SOLDIER-AUTHOR. + + I. Soldiers of the Saddle. + II. Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape. +III. Battles for the Union. + IV. Heroes of Three Wars. + V. Peculiarities of American Cities. + VI. Down the Great River. + +Captain Glazier's works are growing more and more popular +every day. Their delineations of military life, constantly +varying scenes, and deeply interesting stories, combine to +place their writer in the front rank of American authors. + +SOLD ONLY BY SUBSCRIPTION. + +PERSONS DESIRING AGENCIES FOR ANY OF CAPTAIN GLAZIER'S +BOOKS SHOULD ADDRESS + +THE PUBLISHERS + + * * * * * + +[Illustration: (signed) Willard Glazier] + +SWORD AND PEN; + +or, + +Ventures and Adventures + +of + +WILLARD GLAZIER, +(The Soldier-Author,) + +In +War and Literature: +Comprising +Incidents and Reminiscences of His Childhood; His +Chequered Life As a Student and Teacher; and His +Remarkable Career As a Soldier and Author; +Embracing Also the Story of His Unprecedented +Journey from Ocean to Ocean +on Horseback; and an Account of +His Discovery of the True Source +of the Mississippi River, and +Canoe Voyage Thence to +the Gulf of Mexico. + +by + +JOHN ALGERNON OWENS. + +Illustrated. + + + + + + + +Philadelphia: +P. W. Ziegler &. Company, Publishers, +720 Chestnut Street. +1890. + +Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1880, by +John Algernon Owens, +In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D.C. + + + + +PREFACE. + + +No apology will be required from the author for presenting to the public +some episodes in the useful career of a self-made man; and while the +spirit of patriotism continues to animate the sturdy sons of America, +the story of one of them who has exemplified this national trait in a +conspicuous measure, will be deemed not unworthy of record. The lessons +it teaches, more especially to the young, are those of uncompromising +_duty_ in every relation of life--self-denial, perseverance and "pluck;" +while the successive stages of a course which led ultimately to a +brilliant success, may be studied with some advantage by those just +entering upon the business of life. As a soldier, Willard Glazier was +"without fear and without reproach." As an author, it is sufficient to +say, he is appreciated by his _contemporaries_--than which, on a +literary man, no higher encomium can be passed. The sale of nearly half +a million copies of one of his productions is no slight testimony to its +value. + +Biography, to be interesting, must be a transcript of an eventful, as +well as a remarkable career; and to be instructive, its subject should +be exemplary in his aims, and in his mode of attaining them. The hero of +this story comes fully up to the standard thus indicated. His career has +been a romance. Born of parents of small means but of excellent +character and repute; and bred and nurtured in the midst of some of the +wildest and grandest scenery in the rugged county of St. Lawrence, +close by the "Thousand Isles," where New York best proves her right to +be called the Empire State through the stamp of royalty on her hills and +streams--under the shadow of such surroundings as these, my subject +attained maturity, with no opportunities for culture except those he +made for himself. Yet he became possessed of an education eminently +useful, essentially practical and calculated to establish just such +habits of self-reliance and decision as afterwards proved chiefly +instrumental in his success. Glazier had a fixed ambition to rise. He +felt that the task would be difficult of accomplishment--that he must be +not only the architect, but the builder of his own fortunes; and, as the +statue grows beneath the sculptor's hand to perfect contour from the +unshapely block of marble, so prosperity came to Captain Glazier only +after he had cut and chiseled away at the hard surface of inexorable +circumstance, and moulded therefrom the statue of his destiny. + + J. A. O. + Philadelphia, _June 14th_, 1880. + + + * * * * * + + + TO + THE MEMORY OF + + ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT, + + WHOSE SWORD, + + AND TO THAT OF + + HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW, + + WHOSE PEN, + + Have so Nobly Illustrated the Valor and Genius of their Country: + + THE AUTHOR, + + In a Spirit of Profound Admiration for + + THE RENOWNED SOLDIER, + + And of Measureless Gratitude to + + THE IMMORTAL WRITER, + + Dedicates This Book. + + * * * * * + + + + +CONTENTS. + + CHAPTER I. + + ORIGIN OF THE GLAZIER FAMILY. + + Lineage of Willard Glazier.--A good stock.--Oliver Glazier at the + Battle of Bunker Hill.--The home of honest industry.--The Coronet of + Pembroke.--The "Homestead Farm."--Mehitable Bolton.--Her New England + home.--Her marriage to Ward Glazier.--The wild "North Woods."--The + mother of the soldier-author 21 + + CHAPTER II. + + BIRTH AND CHILDHOOD OF WILLARD GLAZIER. + + The infant stranger.--A mother's prayers.--"Be just before you are + generous."--Careful training.--Willard Glazier's first battle.--A + narrow escape.--Facing the foe.--The "happy days of childhood."-- + "The boy is father to the man" 27 + + CHAPTER III. + + EARLY LIFE AND HABITS. + + Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism of twenty-five years ago.--The "little + deacon."--First days at school.--Choosing a wife.--A youthful + gallant.--A close scholar but a wild lad.--A mother's influence.-- + Ward Glazier a Grahamite.--Young Willard's practical jokes.-- + Anecdote of Crystal Spring.--"That is something like water" 34 + + CHAPTER IV. + + WILLARD GLAZIER AT SCHOOL. + + School-days continued.--Boys will be boys.--Cornelius Carter, the + teacher.--Young Willard's rebellion against injustice.-- + Gum-chewing.--Laughable race through the snow.--The tumble into a + snow-bank, and what came of it.--The runaway caught.--Explanation + and reconciliation.--The new master, James Nichols.--"Spare the rod + and spoil the child."--The age of chivalry not gone.--Magnanimity + of a school-boy.--Friendship between Willard and Henry + Abbott.--Good-bye to the "little deacon" 42 + + CHAPTER V. + + ECCENTRICITIES OF HENRY GLAZIER. + + Henry Glazier.--A singular character.--"Kaw-shaw-gan-ce" and + "Quaw-taw-pee-ab."--Tom Lolar and Henry Glazier.--Attractive + show-bills.--Billy Muldoon and his trombone.--Behind the + scenes.--"Sound your G!"--The mysterious musician.--What happened to + Billy.--"May the divil fly away wid ye!" 50 + + CHAPTER VI. + + VISIONS OF THE FUTURE. + + The big uncle and the little nephew.--Exchange of ideas between the + eccentric Henry Glazier and young Willard.--Inseparable + companions.---Willard's early reading.--Favorite authors.-- + Hero-worship of the first Napoleon and Charles XII. of Sweden.-- + The genius of good and of evil.--Allen Wight.--A born teacher.-- + Reverses of fortune.--The shadow on the home.--Willard's resolve + to seek his fortune and what came of it.--The sleep under the + trees.--The prodigal's return.--"All's well that ends well" 58 + + CHAPTER VII. + + WILLARD GLAZIER AT HOME. + + Out of boyhood.--Days of adolescence.--True family pride.--Schemes + for the future.--Willard as a temperance advocate.--Watering his + grandfather's whiskey.--The pump behind the hill.--The sleigh-ride + by night.--The "shakedown" at Edward's.--Intoxicated by tobacco + fumes.--The return ride.--Landed in a snow-bank.--Good-bye horses + and sleigh!--Plodding through the snow 68 + + CHAPTER VIII. + + ADVENTURES--EQUINE AND BOVINE. + + Ward Glazier moves to the Davis Place.--"Far in the lane a lonely + house he found."--Who was Davis?--Description of the place.--A wild + spot for a home.--Willard at work.--Adventure with an ox-team.--The + road, the bridge and the stream.--"As an ox thirsteth for the + water."--Dashed from a precipice!--Willard as a horse-tamer.-- + "Chestnut Bess," the blooded mare.--The start for home.--"Bess" on + the rampage.--A lightning dash.--The stooping arch.--Bruised and + unconscious 75 + + CHAPTER IX. + + THE YOUNG TRAPPER OF THE OSWEGATCHIE. + + A plan of life.--Determination to procure an education.--A + substitute at the plow.--His father acquiesces in his determination + to become a trapper.--Life in the wild woods along the + Oswegatchie.--The six "dead falls."--First success.--A fallacious + calculation.--The goal attained.--Seventy-five dollars in hard + cash!--Four terms of academic life.--The youthful rivals.--Lessons + in elocution.--A fight with hair-brushes and chairs!--"The walking + ghost of a kitchen fire."--Renewed friendship.--Teaching to obtain + means for an education 87 + + CHAPTER X. + + THE SOLDIER SCHOOL-MASTER. + + From boy to man.--The Lyceum debate.--Willard speaks for the + slave.--Entrance to the State Normal School.--Reverses.--Fighting + the world again.--Assistance from fair hands.--Willard meets Allen + Barringer.--John Brown, and what Willard thought of him.--Principles + above bribe.--Examination.--A sleepless night.--Haunted by the + "ghost of possible defeat."--"Here is your certificate."--The school + at Schodack Centre.--At the "Normal" again.--The Edwards + School.--Thirty pupils at two dollars each.--The "soldier + school-master."--Teachers at East Schodack.--The runaway + ride.--Good-by mittens, robes and whip!--Close of school at East + Schodack 102 + + CHAPTER XI. + + INTRODUCTION TO MILITARY LIFE. + + The mutterings of war.--Enlistment.--At Camp Howe.--First experience + as a soldier.--"One step to the front!"--Beyond Washington.--On + guard.--Promotion.--Recruiting service.--The deserted home on + Arlington Heights.--"How shall I behave in the coming battle?"--The + brave Bayard.--On the march.--The stratagem at Falmouth Heights.--A + brilliant charge.--After the battle 118 + + CHAPTER XII. + + FIRST BATTLE OF BRANDY STATION. + + The sentinel's lonely round.--General Pope in command of the + army.--Is gunboat service effective?--First cavalry battle of Brandy + Station.--Under a rain of bullets.--Flipper's orchard.--"Bring on + the brigade, boys!"--Capture of Confederate prisoners.--Story of a + revolver.--Cedar Mountain.--Burial of the dead rebel.--Retreat from + the Rapidan.--The riderless horse.--Death of Captain Walters 128 + + CHAPTER XIII. + + MANASSAS AND FREDERICKSBURG. + + Manassas.--The flying troops.--The unknown hero.--Desperate + attempt to stop the retreat.--Recruiting the decimated + ranks.--Fredericksburg.--Bravery of Meagher's brigade.--The + impregnable heights.--The cost of battles.--Death of + Bayard.--Outline of his life 135 + + CHAPTER XIV. + + UNWRITTEN HISTORY. + + "What boots a weapon in a withered hand?"--A thunderbolt + wasted.--War upon hen-roosts.--A bit of unpublished history.--A + fierce fight with Hampton's cavalry.--In one red burial blent.--From + camp to home.--Troubles never come singly.--The combat.--The + capture.--A superfluity of Confederate politeness.--Lights and + shadows 144 + + CHAPTER XV. + + THE CAPTURE. + + A situation to try the stoutest hearts.--Hail Columbia!--Every man a + hero.--Kilpatrick's ingenuity.--A pen-picture from "Soldiers of the + Saddle."--Glazier thanked by his general.--Cessation of + hostilities.--A black day.--Fitzhugh Lee proposes to crush + Kilpatrick.--Kil's audacity.--Capture of Lieutenant Glazier.--Petty + tyranny.--"Here, Yank, hand me that thar hat, and overcoat, and + boots" 155 + + CHAPTER XVI. + + LIBBY PRISON. + + "All ye who enter here abandon hope."--Auld lang syne.--Major + Turner.--Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.--Stoicism.--Glazier + enters the prison-hospital--A charnel-house.--Rebel surgeons.-- + Prison correspondence.--Specimen of a regulation letter.--The + tailor's joke.--A Roland for an Oliver.--News of death.--Schemes + for escape.--The freemasonry of misfortune.--Plot and + counter-plot.--The pursuit of pleasure under difficulties 166 + + CHAPTER XVII. + + PRISON LIFE. + + Mournful news.--How a brave man dies.--New Year's day.--Jolly under + unfavorable circumstances.--Major Turner pays his respects.-- + Punishment for singing "villainous Yankee songs."--Confederate + General John Morgan.--Plans for escape.--Digging their way to + freedom.--"Poet No. 1, All's well."--Yankee ingenuity.--The tunnel + ready.--Muscle the trump card.--No respect to rank.--_Sauve qui + peut!_--A strategic movement.--"Guards! guards!"--Absentees from + muster.--Disappointed hopes.--Savage treatment of prisoners.--Was + the prison mined? 179 + + CHAPTER XVIII. + + DANVILLE.--MACON.--SAVANNAH. + + Belle Boyd, the Confederate spy.--National characteristics.--Colonel + Mosby.--Richmond to Danville.--Sleeping spoon-fashion.--Glazier's + "corrective point" suffers.--Saltatory entrance to a railroad + car.--Colonel Joselyn.--Sympathy of North Carolinians.--Ingenious + efforts to escape.--Augusta.--Macon.--Turner again!--"Carelessness" + with firearms.--Tunneling.--Religious revival.--Order from + Confederate War Department.--Murder!--Fourth of July.--Macon to + Savannah.--Camp Davidson.--More tunneling 194 + + CHAPTER XIX. + + UNDER FIRE AT CHARLESTON. + + Under siege.--Charleston Jail.--The Stars and Stripes.--Federal + compliments.--Under the guns.--Roper Hospital.--Yellow + Jack.--Sisters of Charity.--Rebel Christianity.--A Byronic + stanza.--Charleston to Columbia.--"Camp Sorghum."--Nemesis.--Another + dash for liberty.--Murder of Lieutenants Young and Parker.--Studying + topography.--A vaticination.--Back to reality 206 + + CHAPTER XX. + + THE ESCAPE FROM COLUMBIA. + + Mysterious voices.--"I reckon dey's Yankees."---"Who comes + there?"--The Lady of the Manor.--A weird spectacle.--The struggle + through the swamp.--A reflection on Southern swamps in + general.--"Tired nature's sweet restorer" 221 + + CHAPTER XXI. + + LOYALTY OF THE NEGROES. + + Startled by hounds.--An unpleasant predicament.--A Christian + gentlewoman.--Appeal to Mrs. Colonel Taylor.--"She did all she + could."--A meal fit for the gods.--Aunt Katy.--"Lor' bress ye, + marsters!"--Uncle Zeb's prayer.--Hoe-cake and pinders.--Woodcraft + _versus_ astronomy.--Canine foes.--Characteristics of the slave.-- + Meeting escaped prisoners.--Danger.--Retreat and concealment 228 + + CHAPTER XXII. + + PROGRESS OF THE FUGITIVES. + + Parting company.--Thirst and no water.--Hoping for the end.--The boy + and the chicken.--Conversation of ladies overheard.--The fugitives + pursued.--The sleeping village.--Captain Bryant.--The _alba + sus_.--Justifiable murder, and a delicious meal.--Darkies and their + prayers.--Man proposes; God disposes.--An adventure.--A _ruse de + guerre_.--Across the Savannah 238 + + CHAPTER XXIII. + + THE PERILS OF AN ESCAPE. + + Alligators.--A detachment of Southern chivalry.--A scare.--Repairs + neatly executed.--Misery and despair.--Virtue its own + reward.--Hunger and desperation.--Audacity.--A Confederate + officer.--"A good Union man."--"Two sights and a jambye."--A narrow + escape 249 + + CHAPTER XXIV. + + RECAPTURED BY A CONFEDERATE OUTPOST. + + Fugitive slaves.--A rebel planter.--The big Ebenezer.--A sound of + oars.--A _ruse de guerre_.--Burial of a dead soldier.--A free + ride.--Groping in the dark.--"Who goes there!"--Recaptured.--_Nil + desperandum_.--James Brooks.--Contraband of war.--Confederate + murders.--In the saddle again.--A dash for freedom.--Again + captured.--Tried as a spy 261 + + CHAPTER XXV. + + FINAL ESCAPE FROM CAPTIVITY. + + In jail.--White trash.--Yankees.--Off to Waynesboro.--No + rations.--Calling the roll.--Sylvania.--Plan for escape.--Lieutenant + John W. Wright.--A desperate project.--Escaped!--Giving chase.--The + pursuers baffled.--Old Richard.--"Pooty hard case, massa."--Rebel + deserters.--The sound of cannon.--Personating a rebel officer.--Mrs. + Keyton.--Renewed hope.--A Confederate outpost.--Bloodhounds.--Uncle + Philip.--March Dasher.--Suspicion disarmed.--"Now I'ze ready, + gemmen."--Stars and stripes.--Glorious freedom.--Home 274 + + CHAPTER XXVI + + GLAZIER RE-ENTERS THE SERVICE. + + Glazier's determination to re-enter the army.--Letter to Colonel + Harhaus.--Testimonial from Colonel Clarence Buel.--Letter from Hon. + Martin I. Townsend to governor of New York.--Letter from General + Davies.--Letter from General Kilpatrick.--Application for new + commission successful.--Home.--The mother fails to recognize her + son.--Supposed to be dead.--Recognized by his sister + Marjorie.--Filial and fraternal love.--Reports himself to his + commanding officer for duty.--Close of the war and of Glazier's + military career.--Seeks a new object in life.--An idea occurs to + him.--Becomes an author, and finds a publisher 295 + + CHAPTER XXVII. + + CAREER AS AN AUTHOR. + + Glazier in search of a publisher for "Capture, Prison-Pen and + Escape."--Spends his last dollar.--Lieutenant Richardson a friend + in need.--Joel Munsell, of Albany, consents to publish.--The author + solicits subscriptions for his work before publication.-- + Succeeds.--Captain Hampton.--R. H. Ferguson.--Captain F. C. + Lord.--Publication and sale of first edition.--Great success.--Pays + his publisher in full.--Still greater successes.--Finally attains + an enormous sale.--Style of the work.--Extracts.--Opinions of the + press 304 + + CHAPTER XXVIII. + + "THREE YEARS IN THE FEDERAL CAVALRY." + + Another work by Captain Glazier.--"Three Years in the Federal + Cavalry."--Daring deeds of the Light Dragoons.--Extracts from the + work.--Night attack on Falmouth Heights.--Kilpatrick's + stratagem.--Flight of the enemy.--Capture of Falmouth.--Burial of + Lieutenant Decker.--Incidents at "Brandy Station."--"Harris Light" + and "Tenth New York."--"Men of Maine, you must save the + day!"--Position won.--Some press reviews of the work 313 + + CHAPTER XXIX. + + "BATTLES FOR THE UNION." + + "Battles for the Union."--Extracts.--Bull Run.--Brandy + Station.--Manassas.--Gettysburg.--Pittsburg Landing.--Surrender of + General Lee.--Opinions of the press.--Philadelphia "North + American."--Pittsburg "Commercial."--Chicago "Inter-Ocean."-- + Scranton "Republican."--Wilkes-Barre "Record of the + Times."--Reading "Eagle."--Albany "Evening Journal" 322 + + CHAPTER XXX. + + "HEROES OF THREE WARS." + + Literary zeal.--"Heroes of Three Wars."--Extract from preface.--Sale + of the work.--Extracts: Washington.--Winfield Scott.--Zachary + Taylor.--Grant.--Sheridan.--Kilpatrick.--Press reviews, a few out + of many: Boston "Transcript."--Chicago "Inter-Ocean."--Baltimore + "Sun."--Philadelphia "Times."--Cincinnati "Enquirer."--Worcester + "Spy."--Pittsburg "Gazette" 341 + + CHAPTER XXXI. + + OCEAN TO OCEAN ON HORSEBACK. + + From Boston to San Francisco.--An unparalleled ride.--Object of the + journey.--Novel lecture tour.--Captain Frank M. Clark.--"Echoes from + the Revolution."--Lecture at Tremont Temple.--Captain Theodore L. + Kelly.--A success.--Proceeds of lecture.--Edward F. + Rollins.--Extracts from first lecture.--Press notices 364 + + CHAPTER XXXII. + + BOSTON TO CHICAGO. + + In the saddle.--Bunker Hill.--Arrives in Albany.--Reminiscences.-- + The Soldiers' Home.--Contributions for erecting Soldiers' + Home.--Reception at Rochester.--Buffalo.--Dunkirk.--Swanville.-- + Cleveland.--Massacre of General Custer.--Monroe.--Lectures for + Custer Monument.--Father of General Custer.--Detroit.-- + Kalamazoo.--An adventure.--Gives "Paul Revere" a rest.--Decatur.-- + Niles.--Michigan City.--Chicago 376 + + CHAPTER XXXIII. + + CHICAGO TO OMAHA. + + Returns to Michigan City.--Joliet.--Thomas Babcock.--Herbert + Glazier.--Ottawa.--La Salle.--Colonel Stevens.--Press Notice.--Taken + for a highwayman.--Milan.--Davenport.--Press Notice.--Iowa + City.--Des Moines.--Press Notice.--Attacked by prairie + wolves.--Council Bluffs.--Omaha 401 + + CHAPTER XXXIV. + + CAPTAIN GLAZIER CAPTURED BY INDIANS. + + Captain Glazier as a horseman.--Cheyenne.--Two herders.--Captured + by Indians.--Torture and death of a herder.--Escape.--Ogden.-- + Letter to Major Hessler.--Kelton.--Terrace.--Wells.--Halleck.-- + Elko.--Palisade.--Argenta.--Battle Mountain.--Golconda.--Humboldt.-- + "The majesty of the law."--Lovelock's.--White Plains.--Desert.-- + Wadsworth.--Truckee.--Summit.--Sacramento.--Brighton.-- + Stockton.--SAN FRANCISCO 410 + + CHAPTER XXXV. + + RETURN FROM CALIFORNIA. + + Returns to the East by the "Iron Horse."--Boston _Transcript_ on the + journey on horseback.--Resumes literary work.--"Peculiarities of + American Cities."--Preface to book.--A domestic incident.--A worthy + son.--Claims of parents.--Purchases the Old Homestead, and presents + it to his father and mother.--Letter to his parents.--The end 431 + + CHAPTER XXXVI. + + THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER. + + An interval of literary work.--Conception of another expedition.-- + Reflections upon the Old Explorers.--Indian rumors.--Determined to + find the true source of the Great River.--Starting on the eventful + journey.--Joined by his brother George and Barrett Channing + Paine.--Collecting materials for the expedition.--Brainerd the + first point of departure.--Through the Chippewa country.--Seventy + miles of government road.--Curiosity its own reward.--Arrival at + Leech Lake 437 + + CHAPTER XXXVII + + HOME OF THE CHIPPEWAS. + + An aboriginal red man.--A primitive hotel.--A native of the + forest.--Leech Lake.--Major Ruffe's arrival.--White Cloud.--Paul + Beaulieu and his theory about the source of the + Mississippi.--Che-no-wa-ge-sic.--Studying Indian manners and + customs.--Dining with Indian royalty.--Chippewa hospitality.--How + the wife of an Indian Chief entertains.--Souvenir of Flat + Mouth.--Return of Che-no-wa-ge-sic.--A council held.--An Indian + speech.--"No White Man has yet seen the head of the Father of + Waters."--Voyage of exploration.--Launching the canoes 444 + + CHAPTER XXXVIII + + EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY. + + Launching the canoes.--Flat Mouth and White Cloud again.--An + inspiring scene.--Farewell to Leech Lake.--Up the Kabekanka + River.--Dinner at Lake Benedict.--Difficult navigation.--A peaceful + haven.--Supper and contentment.--Lake Garfield.--Preparations for + first portage.--Utter exhaustion.--Encampment for the night.--The + cavalry column.--Lake George and Lake Paine.--The Naiwa River.--Six + miles from Itasca.--Camping on the Mississippi watershed.--A + startling discovery.--Rations giving out.--Ammunition gone.--Arrival + at Lake Itasca 454 + + CHAPTER XXXIX. + + DISCOVERY OF THE SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI. + + Short rations.--Empty haversacks and depleted + cartridge-boxes.--Statement of Chenowagesic.--Captain Glazier's + diary.--Vivid description.--Coasting Itasca.--Chenowagesic + puzzled.--The barrier overcome.--Victory! the Infant + Mississippi.--Enthusiastic desire to see the source.--The goal + reached.--A beautiful lake.--The fountain-head.--An American the + first white man to stand by its side.--Schoolcraft.--How he came to + miss the lake.--Appropriate ceremonies.--Captain Glazier's + speech.--Naming the lake.--Chenowagesic.--Military honors.--"Three + cheers for the explorer" 465 + + CHAPTER XL. + + DOWN THE GREAT RIVER. + + Voyage from Source to Sea.--Three thousand miles in an open + canoe.--"Pioneers of the Mississippi."--A thrilling lecture.--The + long voyage begun.--Mosquitoes.--Hunger and exhaustion.--The Captain + kills an otter.--Lakes Bemidji and Winnibegoshish.--An Indian + missionary.--Wind-bound.--Chenowagesic bids farewell to the + Captain.--Pokegama Falls.--Grand Rapids.--Meeting the first + steamboat.--Aitkin.--Great enthusiasm.--The new canoes.--Leaving + Aitkin.--Arrival at Little Falls.--Escorted in triumph to the + town.--"Captain Glazier! A speech! A speech!"--Lake Pepin.--An + appalling storm.--St. Louis.--Southern hospitality.--New + Orleans.--Arrival at the Gulf of Mexico.--End of voyage 476 + + CHAPTER XLI. + + RECEPTION BY THE NEW ORLEANS ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. + + Captain Glazier returns to New Orleans.--A general ovation.-- + Flattering opinions of the press.--Introduction to the Mayor.-- + Freedom of the City tendered.--Special meeting of the New Orleans + Academy of Sciences.--Presentation of the "Alice" to the Academy.-- + Captain Glazier's address.--The President's Response.--Resolutions + of thanks and appreciation passed.--Visit to the Arsenal of the + Washington Artillery.--Welcome by the Old Guard of the Louisiana + Tigers.--Pleasant memories of the "Crescent City" 490 + + CHAPTER XLII. + + BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY. + + Return to St. Louis.--Lecture at Mercantile Library + Hall.--Brilliant audience.--The Missouri Historical Society + present.--Eloquent introduction by Judge Todd.--"Pioneers of the + Mississippi."--Presentation of the "Itasca" to the Historical + Society.--Remarks of Captain Silas Bent on accepting the + canoe.--Congratulations of the audience.--Closing scene 496 + + CHAPTER XLIII. + + GREETINGS OF THE VOYAGE. + + An interesting souvenir.--Greeting at Lake Glazier.--Petition to + Geographical Societies.--Voice from Aitkin, Gate City of the Upper + Mississippi.--Tributes from Brainerd.--Mississippi Pyramid.--An old + friend at La Crosse.--Greetings at St. Louis.--Senator Lamar.--Royal + welcome at Bayou Tunica.--Sentiment of Port Eads.--Congratulations + of the officers of the "Margaret."--Greetings from New + Orleans.--"Fame's triple wreath."--Closing remarks 502 + + "SWORD AND PEN" COMMENDATIONS. 517 + + APPENDIX BY THE PUBLISHERS Appx. i + + + +ILLUSTRATIONS. + + + Portrait of the Soldier-author _Frontispiece_ + + Birth-place of Willard Glazier 26 + + The First Battle 32 + + Race with the Schoolmaster 44 + + Tragic Experience with an Ox-Team 80 + + The Young Trapper of the Oswegatchie 90 + + Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary 102 + + Old State Normal School 110 + + A Cavalry Column on the March 118 + + Night Attack on Falmouth Heights 126 + + Federal Canteens for Confederate Tobacco 130 + + Burial of Captain Walters at Midnight, during Pope's retreat 134 + + Sergeant Glazier at Aldie 146 + + Lieutenant Glazier at Brandy Station 156 + + Cavalry Fight at New Baltimore--Lieutenant Glazier taken Prisoner 160 + + Libby Prison 166 + + The Hole in the Floor 192 + + Tunneling--the Narrow Path To Freedom 198 + + Charleston Jail--Charleston, South Carolina 206 + + The Escape From Columbia--Crossing the Dead-Line 216 + + The Escape--Fed by Negroes in a Swamp 220 + + The Pursuit of Knowledge under Difficulties 224 + + Uncle Zeb's Prayer 232 + + The Escape--Crossing the Savannah at Midnight 246 + + A Mutual Surprise 258 + + Recaptured by a Confederate Outpost 266 + + The Escape and Pursuit 270 + + The Escape From Sylvania, Georgia--Running the Guard 276 + + Interview With Joel Munsell 306 + + Cavalry Foraging-Party Returning To Camp 312 + + A Cavalry Bivouac 319 + + Battle of Gettysburg 332 + + Captain Glazier at Tremont Temple--Boston 364 + + Boston to Brighton--First Day of The Journey 376 + + A Night among Wolves 406 + + Captured by Indians, near Skull Rocks, Wyoming 412 + + Pursued by Arrapahoes 418 + + Riding into the Pacific, near the Cliff House--San Francisco 428 + + Map of the Headwaters of the Mississippi 437 + + Captain Glazier Embarking for the Headwaters of the Mississippi 454 + + Camp Among the Pines 458 + + Making a Portage 462 + + Map of Lake Glazier 464 + + Lake Glazier--Source of the Mississippi 468 + + Running Rapids on the Upper Mississippi 478 + + + SWORD AND PEN. + + + + +CHAPTER I. + + +ORIGIN OF THE GLAZIER FAMILY. + + + Lineage of Willard Glazier.--A good stock.--Oliver Glazier at the + Battle of Bunker Hill.--The home of honest industry.--The Coronet + of Pembroke.--The "Homestead Farm."--Mehitable Bolton.--Her New + England home.--Her marriage to Ward Glazier.--The wild "North + Woods."--The mother of the soldier-author. + +Willard Glazier comes of the mixed blood of Saxon and of Celt. We first +hear of his ancestors upon this side of the Atlantic at that period of +our nation's history which intervened between the speck of war at +Lexington and the cloud of war at Bunker Hill. + +Massachusetts and the town of Boston had become marked objects of the +displeasure of the British Parliament. Later, in 1775, Ethan Allen had +startled Captain Delaplace by presenting his lank figure at the +captain's bedside and demanding the surrender of Ticonderoga in the name +of the "Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress." In the language of +Daniel Webster, "A spirit pervaded all ranks, not transient, not +boisterous, but deep, solemn, determined." + +War on their own soil and at their own doors was indeed a strange work +to the yeomanry of New England; but their consciences were convinced of +its necessity, and when their country called them to her defense they +did not withhold themselves from the perilous responsibility. + +The statement of Quincy seemed to pervade all hearts. Said that +distinguished son of genius and patriotism, "Blandishments will not +fascinate us, nor will threats of a halter intimidate; for, under God, +we are determined that, wheresoever, whensoever, and howsoever we shall +be called to make our exit, we will die free men." + +At such a time, and among such men, we find enrolled in the ranks of the +patriot army Oliver Glazier, the great-grandfather of the subject of the +present biography. + +Oliver's father was John Glazier, a Massachusetts Lancastrian, born in +1739. John Glazier was the son of William Glazier, born about the year +1700, his ancestry being respectively of English and of Scotch +extraction. Oliver himself, however, was born in the town of Lancaster, +in the province or colony of Massachusetts, May twenty-third, 1763. + +Hence the blood of Norman, of Saxon and of Celt, that had forgotten the +animosities of race and mingled quietly in the veins of his ancestors, +had become purely American in Oliver, and though but little over +fourteen years of age, we find him doing yeoman service upon the +ramparts of Bunker Hill. + +That he performed well his part in the struggle for liberty, is evident +from the fact that he appears upon the rolls as a pensioner, from the +close of that memorable contest until the time of his death. + +Mr. Frank Renehan, in a sketch contributed by him to an elaborate work +which was published by the New York and Hartford Publishing Company in +1871, comments as follows upon the coincidence of Oliver Glazier in 1775 +and Willard Glazier in 1861--both being at the time of entering service +comparatively boys in age, enlisting for the defense of their country: +"The former, though then but fourteen years of age, participated with +the patriots in the battle of Bunker Hill, and to the last contributed +his young enthusiasm and willing services to the cause he had espoused; +thus giving early testimony of his devotion to the land of his adoption +and of fealty to the principles of popular government involved in the +struggle for American independence. So remarkable an instance of +ancestral fidelity to the interests of civil liberty could not but +exercise a marked influence upon those of the same blood to whom the +tradition was handed down, and here we find our subject, a scion of the +third generation, assisting in 1861 on the battlefields of the South, in +maintenance of the liberty his progenitor had contributed to achieve in +1775 on the battlefields of the North! This is not mentioned as a +singular fact--history is replete with just such coincidences,--but +merely for the purpose of suggesting the moral that, in matters of +patriotism, the son is only consistent when he imitates the example and +emulates the virtues of his sires." + +In this eloquent passage occurs an error of fact. Oliver Glazier while +in the patriot army was _not_ fighting for the "land of his adoption." +As we have seen, he was native here and "to the manor born." Indeed, in +the light of historic proof and with the example of men descended from +Washington and Light Horse Harry Lee before us, we are rather inclined +to admire the paragraph as a fine specimen of rhetorical composition +than to admit its accuracy as a deduction in philosophy. + +Subsequent to his term of military service--an experience through which +he had safely passed--Oliver Glazier became a resident of West Boylston, +Massachusetts, where he married a Miss Hastings. + +The name of Glazier, Lower tells us, is purely English, and is derived +from the title given to the trade. However that may be, those who have +borne it have always expressed a pride in having sprung from the great +mass--the people--and have held with the philosopher of Sunnyside, that +whether "hereditary rank be an illusion or not, hereditary virtue gives +a patent of nobility beyond all the blazonry of the herald's college." +The name of Hastings takes its rise from a nobler source; for Mrs. +Oliver Glazier brought into the family as blue blood as any in all +England. The great family which bears that name in Great Britain can +show quarterings of an earlier date than the battle which gave a kingdom +to William of Normandy. Macaulay says that one branch of their line, in +the fourteenth century, "wore the coronet of Pembroke; that from another +sprang the renowned Lord Chamberlain, the faithful adherent of the White +Rose, whose fate has furnished so striking a theme both to the poet and +historian," and while it is probable that this wife of an American +patriot was many degrees removed from the powerful leaders whose name +she bore, the same blood undoubtedly flowed in her veins that coursed +through theirs. + +Oliver, during the many years of a happy married life which terminated +in his death at the ripe age of ninety-seven, became the father of +eight children. His son Jabez left Boylston at an early age, and after +considerable "prospecting" finally married a Miss Sarah Tucker and +settled in the township of Fowler, St. Lawrence County, New York. Out of +their union sprang three sons, George, Ward, and Henry, and four +daughters, Elvira, Martha, Caroline and Lydia. During a visit he made to +his "down East" relations, Ward married a young lady by the name of +Mehitable Bolton, of West Boylston, Massachusetts. + +This young lady was a true representative of the New England woman, who +believes that work is the handmaid of religion. She entered a cotton +factory at Worcester when only seventeen years of age, and worked +perseveringly through long years of labor, often walking from her home +in West Boylston to the factory at Worcester, a distance of seven miles. +At the time of her marriage--which occurred when she was +twenty-five--she had accumulated the snug little sum of five hundred +dollars, besides possessing a handsome wardrobe, all of which was the +fruit of her own untiring industry. + +If it be true that the mothers of men of mark are always women of strong +and noble characters, then we are not surprised to find in the mother of +Willard Glazier those sterling qualities which made her young life +successful. + +The early married life of Ward Glazier was passed upon the farm first +cleared and cultivated by his father, and which has since become known +to the neighborhood as the "Old Glazier Homestead." This farm is +situated in the township of Fowler, midway between the small villages of +Little York and Fullersville. + +The township is a tract of rugged land, containing only the little +village of Hailesborough, besides those already named. Along its borders +rushes and tumbles a turbulent stream which still retains its original +Indian appellation--the Oswegatchie; a name no doubt conveying to the +ear of its aboriginal sponsors some poetical conceit, just as another +stream in far off Virginia is named the Shenandoah, or "Daughter of the +Stars." + +Those who are at all familiar with the scenery that prevails in what in +other sections of the country are called the great North Woods, and in +their own neighborhood the great South Woods, can readily imagine what +were the geological and scenic peculiarities of Fowler township. Bare, +sterile, famished-looking, as far as horticultural and herbaceous crops +are concerned, yet rich in pasture and abounding in herds--with vast +rocks crested and plumed with rich growths of black balsam, maple, and +spruce timber, and with huge boulders scattered carelessly over its +surface and margining its streams, St. Lawrence County presents to-day +features of savage grandeur as wild and imposing as it did ere the foot +of a trapper had profaned its primeval forests. + +Yet its farms and its dwellings are numerous, its villages and towns +possess all the accompaniments of modern civilization, the spires of its +churches indicate that the gentle influences of religion are not +forgotten, and there, as elsewhere, the indomitable will of man has won +from the wilderness a living and a home. + +[Illustration: Birth-place Of Willard Glazier.] + + + + +CHAPTER II. + + +BIRTH AND CHILDHOOD OF WILLARD GLAZIER. + + + The infant stranger.--A mother's prayers.--"Be just before you are + generous."--Careful training.--Willard Glazier's first battle.--A + narrow escape.--Facing the foe.--The happy days of + childhood.--"The boy is father to the man." + +The Glazier Homestead, as we have said, is upon the main road leading +from Little York to Fullerville. It is a substantial and comfortable +farm-house, with no pretension to architectural beauty, but, +nevertheless, is a sightly object in a pleasant landscape. Standing back +two hundred feet from the road, in a grove of gigantic elms, with a +limpid brook of spring water a short distance to the right, and rich +fields of herd grass stretching off rearwards towards the waters of the +Oswegatchie, which hurry along on their journey of forty miles to the +St. Lawrence River, the old house is sure to attract the attention of +the traveller, and to be long remembered as a picture of solid and +substantial comfort. + +In this old house, upon the morning of August twenty-second, 1841, to +Ward Glazier and Mehitable, his wife, a son was born who was +subsequently named Willard. The father and mother were by no means +sentimental people--they were certainly not given to seeing the poetical +side of life; they were plain, earnest people, rough hewn out of the +coarse fibre of Puritanism, but the advent of this little child brought +a joy to their hearts that had its softening influence upon the home in +which he was to be reared. + +The thoroughness of Ward Glazier's nature, that conscientiousness in +excess which made him radical in all things, was of the _heart_ as well +as of the head, and though not a demonstrative man, the intensity of his +paternal love cropped out in many ways. As to his wife, hers was truly +"mother's love." And what notes are there attuned to sacred music, in +all the broad vocabulary of the English tongue, which gives any idea of +the sentiment that links a woman to her babe, except the three simple +syllables, "mother's love!" Brooding over the tiny stranger, ready to +laugh or cry; exultant with hope and pride, despondent with fear, +quivering with anguish if the "wind of heaven doth visit its cheek too +roughly," and singing hosannas of joy when it lisps the simpler +syllables that she so patiently has taught, covering it with the broad +wing of her measureless affection, and lavishing upon it such "sighs as +perfect joy perplexed for utterance, steals from her sister sorrow," +there is nothing except God's own illimitable affection for his +creatures, that can rival in depth and strength and comprehensiveness, a +mother's love. + +The heart of Ward Glazier's wife, at this time, blossomed in absolutely +rank luxuriance with this feeling, and ran riot in the joy of its +possession; but she determined within herself that it should be no blind +or foolish worship. It grew, therefore, into a sober, careful, provident +affection. + +Quiet and unobtrusive in manner, her face always wore a look of gravity +befitting one who felt that God had entrusted to her charge a fresh +human soul to mould for good or evil. She fully realized the fact that +her son would grow up with honor or sink down into ignominy just as she +should guide or spoil him in his youth. She quite comprehended the +stubborn truth, that while the father to some extent may shape the +outward career of his son, the mother is responsible for the coloring of +his inner life: and that + + "All we learn of good is learned in youth, + When passion's heat is pure, when love is truth." + +Though of Puritan stock, though reared in the austere faith of John +Knox, there was nothing hard or harsh in this mother's character, and +still less was there anything of the materialist about her. She would +have utterly scouted the doctrine of Cabanis and his school, which held +that the physical was the whole structure of man; that all instincts, +passions, thoughts, emanated from the body; that sensibility is an +effect of the nervous system, that passion is an emanation of the +viscera, that intellect is nothing more than a cerebral secretion, and +"self-consciousness but a general faculty of living matter." She had +drunk inspiration of a different kind from her infancy. In her New +England home the very atmosphere was charged with religious influences. +She was taught, or rather she had learned without a teacher, not only to +see God in the flowers and in the stars, but to recognize his immediate +agency in all things terrestrial. + +Night after night, listening to the tremulous tones of her father as he +read a lesson from the sacred page, not only to those of his own blood, +but to his "man-servant, his maid-servant, and the stranger within his +gates," she had felt the presence of a tangible God, and when, at last, +she followed the fortunes of the chosen one of her heart far into the +great North Woods, nature spoke to her from the forest and the cataract, +deepening each early impression and intensifying each early belief, +until she realized as a living fact that the "Lord was ever in his holy +temple" and that his temple was the universe. + +To a woman like this every act of life became a matter of conscience, +and the training of her child of course became such to Mrs. Glazier. She +had watched the pitfalls which the "world, the flesh and the +devil"--that trinity of evil--provide for the feet of the unwary, and +she determined that young Willard's steps, if she could prevent it, +should never stray that way. + +Her husband took life and its duties much more easily. He was less rigid +in his sense of parental responsibility. While a man of great rectitude +of purpose, he was good-natured to a fault--somewhat improvident, +careless of money, ever ready to extend aid to the needy, and especially +disinclined to the exercise of harshness in his home, even when the +stern element of authority was needed. In short, he was one of those +big-hearted men who are so brimful of the "milk of human kindness" that +the greatest pain they ever feel is the pain they see others suffer. His +plan therefore was, spare the rod even if you _do_ spoil the child. + +But--perhaps fortunately for young Willard--Mrs. Glazier held different +views. From his very infancy she endeavored to instil into his nature +habits of truthfulness, industry and thrift. "Never waste and never lie" +was her pet injunction. Her aim was not to make her son a generous, but +a _just_ man. "One hour of justice is worth an eternity of prayer," +says the Arabian proverb, but Mrs. Glazier, while she exalted justice as +the greatest of the virtues, also believed that in order to make man's +heart its temple, prayer was an absolutely necessary pre-requisite. She +likewise endeavored from the first to habituate the boy's mind to +reflect upon the value of money and the uses of economy. She would have +"coined her blood for drachms" if that would have benefited her husband +or her son. Her savings were not spent upon herself, but in the hard +school of a bitter experience she had learned that money means much more +than dollars and cents--that its possession involves the ability to live +a life of honor, untempted by the sordid solicitations that clamor round +the poor man's door and wring the poor man's heart. + +The result was that as soon as he began to comprehend her words, young +Willard had impressed upon his memory maxims eulogizing all who practise +habits of sobriety, industry and frugality, and denunciatory of all who +fail to do so. + +His mother never wearied of teaching him such sayings of Dr. Franklin as +these: "Time is money," "Credit is money," "Money begets money," "The +good paymaster is lord of another man's purse," and "The sound of a +man's hammer heard by his creditor at six o'clock in the morning makes +him easy six months longer, while the sound of his voice heard in a +tavern, induces him to send for his money the next day;" "Trifling items +aggregate into large totals," while the text that ruled the house was +that of the Scripture, "If any would not work neither should he eat." + +The effect of the constant teaching of such lessons was not however +perceptible in the lad's habits in very early life. He was no model +little boy, no monster of perfection--he was like the boys that we see +around us every day--not one of the marvels we read about. But the seed +was sown in his soul which was destined to quicken into fruit in after +life. + +At the early age of four years his mother began to teach him to read and +write, and under her loving tuition he acquired a knowledge of these two +branches of culture quite rapidly. + +Just about this time an incident occurred which came near finishing +young Willard's career in a manner as sudden as it would have been +singular. + +The "Homestead Farm" was at that time pretty well stocked for a place +only containing one hundred and forty acres, and among the cattle was a +sturdy Alderney bull whose reputation for peace and quietness was +unusually good. + +On a certain morning, however, early in the spring of the year 1845, +young Master Willard happened to overhear a conversation between two of +the farm hands, in the course of which one of them declared that "old +Blackface was tarin' round mighty lively." This statement interested the +lad to such an extent that he concluded to go and see how this "tarin' +round" was done. + +Accordingly, taking advantage of a moment when his mother's attention +was occupied, he started for the barnyard, into which Mr. Bull had been +turned only a few moments before. Now as young Willard was somewhat +smaller than the visitors our bovine friend was in the habit of +receiving, such an unwarrantable intrusion was not to be tolerated for +a moment. Accordingly, no sooner had Willard set his little feet within +the enclosure of the barn-yard than the bull gave a roar of rage, and +catching the boy on the tips of his horns, which fortunately were +buttoned, sent him twenty feet up in the air, preparing to trample him +out of existence when he should come down. Luckily some of the men were +attracted to the scene, who secured his bullship and rescued the child. +Willard was not seriously hurt, and the instant he regained his feet, he +turned round, shook his tiny fist at the now retreating animal and +shouted out in a shrill treble, "When I get to be a big man I'll toss +you in the air!" + +Having thus taken the bull by the horns in a literal as well as +figurative sense, the lad began gradually to develop into that terrible +embodiment of unrest--a boy. He exhibited no very marked peculiarities +up to this time to distinguish him from other youths; but just grew into +the conglomerate mass of good, bad and indifferent qualities which go to +make up the ordinary flesh-and-blood boy--brimful of mischief and +impatient of restraint. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + + +EARLY LIFE AND HABITS. + + + Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism of twenty-five years ago.--The "little + deacon."--First days at school.--Choosing a wife.--A youthful + gallant.--A close scholar but a wild lad.--A mother's + influence.--Ward Glazier a Grahamite.--Young Willard's practical + jokes.--Anecdote of Crystal Spring.--"That is something like + water." + +It must not be supposed that young Willard's home was gloomy and +joyless, because it was presided over by a religious woman. The +Presbyterians of that day and that race were by no means a lugubrious +people. They did not necessarily view their lives as a mere vale of +tears, nor did they think the "night side of nature" the most sacred +one. The Rev. Mr. Morrison, one of their divines, tells us that "the +thoughtless, the grave, the old and the young, alike enjoyed every +species of wit," and though they were "thoughtful, serious men, yet they +never lost an occasion that might promise sport," and he very +pertinently asks, "what other race ever equaled them in getting up +corn-huskings, log-rollings and quiltings?--and what hosts of queer +stories are connected with them!" Fond of fun, there was a grotesque +humor about them, which in its way has, perhaps, never been equaled. + +"It was the sternness of the Scotch Covenanter softened by a century's +residence abroad, amid persecution and trial, united to the comic humor +and pathos of the Irish, and then grown wild in the woods among their +own New England mountains." + +[Illustration: The First Battle.] + +Such was the Scotch-Irish Presbyterianism of that period. + +Other cheerful influences were also at work in the two villages that +comprised the town of Fowler. The only house of worship in the town +proper was a Universalist church, and the people were compelled for the +most part, notwithstanding their various creeds, to worship in a common +temple where the asperities of sectarian difference had no existence. + +Ward Glazier, at that time, was an adherent of Universalism, while his +wife held evangelical views. But he was ever ready to ride with his wife +and son to the church of her choice at Gouverneur, a distance of six +miles, and returning, chat with them pleasantly of the sermon, the +crops, the markets and the gossip of the town. + +In truth, young Willard's early home was a good and pleasant one, and +having learned, under his mother's careful training, to read exceedingly +well, for a boy of his age, by the time he reached his fourth year he +became noted for his inquiring disposition, his quiet manner, and a +quaint habit of making some practical application of the "wise saws" +with which his mother had stored his juvenile mind. + +The result was that up to this period of his existence he was an +old-fashioned little fellow, and somehow had acquired the sobriquet of +the "little deacon." + +At about five years of age, however, a change took place in the boy. + +The bird that flutters and twitters in the parent nest is a very +different thing from the emancipated fledgeling, feeling its newly +acquired power of flight, and soaring far up and out into the woods and +over the fields; and the boy whose experience of life is confined to +the household of his parents, is not less different from the lad who has +gone beyond it into the bustle and turmoil of that epitomized world,--a +public school. + +Little Willard, like other youths, was thrown into this new sphere of +action suddenly, and without any adequate idea of what was there +expected of him. The first day passed as all first days at school pass, +not in study, but in looking on and becoming accustomed to the +surroundings, himself in turn being the subject of scrutiny by his +school-mates, as the "new boy." The day did not end, however, without +its incident. + +Young Willard as soon as he had made his bow to his new teacher, was +placed upon a bench in close proximity to a pretty little girl of about +his own age. Instead of wasting his time therefore, by studying the less +attractive lineaments of his male companions, he made a careful +comparison between this young lady and the other girls present, the +result of which was that the moment he was permitted to go out during +the customary recess, he bounded off home at the top of his speed, and +with all the exuberance natural to his years announced to his astonished +mother, "Mother! mother! I've picked out my wife!" + +Susceptibility to the influence of beauty seems, at this period of +Willard's life, to have been one of his prominent characteristics, for +in addition to exhibiting itself in the manner described, upon another +occasion not long afterwards it broke out as follows: + +Every school-boy is aware that there is nothing so humiliating to a male +pupil at a public school as to be called a "girl-boy." Hence, for +trivial offences a boy is often punished by being sandwiched between two +girls, and compelled to remain there until the offence committed has +been sufficiently atoned for. Now young Willard was frequently guilty of +talking during study hours, and his teacher determined to try this +species of punishment upon him with a view of correcting the offensive +habit. As soon, therefore, as he caught him indulging in the prohibited +practice, he was ordered to take his place between two very young ladies +of six and eight summers respectively. To the amazement of his teacher, +young Willard sustained the infliction smilingly, and believing that +this was an indication that the culprit recognized the justice of the +punishment and was practising a commendable patience, he very soon +called him up to his own desk, reasoned with him upon the necessity of +observing the rules of school, and released him with an admonition to be +careful for the future, as a repetition of his offence would certainly +be followed by a repetition of the punishment. + +Willard said nothing, but went to his desk, and for the space of five +minutes, perhaps, there was complete silence in the school-room. Then +Mr. ---- was startled to hear a distinct, clear, unmistakable whisper +break in upon his meditations, and became as suddenly struck with the +conviction that it was uttered by Master Willard Glazier. + +The countenance of the pedagogue grew dark and stern. Fire shot from his +usually calm eyes, and his expression betokened the fact that this +flagrant act of disobedience was more than he could bear. Indignation +however soon gave place to astonishment, for the little fellow, without +waiting for a single word from his teacher's lips, quietly arose to his +feet, and with the placid expression of an individual performing a +meritorious action, marched across the school-room and deliberately +seated himself in the place he had before occupied between the two +little girls. + +"Willard Glazier!" thundered the master, "come here, sir, immediately!" + +The boy of course instantly obeyed. + +"What do you mean, sir!" exclaimed the teacher, "how dare you conduct +yourself in this disgraceful manner, sir!" + +Young Willard looked astonished. + +"Why, Mr. ----," said he, "didn't you say that if I whispered to Myron +Sprague again, I should go back and sit between Lizzie and Annie?" + +"Yes, sir, I did, and how dare you disobey me in this way?" + +"Why, sir," said Willard, "I whispered again to him, because, +sir,--because--I like to sit there, sir." + +A light dawned upon the mind of the master, and thereafter he adopted a +less attractive mode of punishing Willard's offences. To some of my +readers such incidents may seem too trivial for record, and no doubt +such days as these _are_ foolish days, but are they not in our memories, +among our very happiest too? As David Copperfield said of such, so say +we, that "of all my time that Time has in his grip, there's none at +which I smile so much, or think of half so kindly." + +The usual surroundings of a public school made a great change in the +existence of Willard Glazier, and it is necessary to note its influence, +for in writing the life of a man in its private as well as its public +relations, the chief point to be considered is that which men call +_character_, and how it was formed and fashioned. + +If the truth must be told, the "little deacon" had not been a month in +attendance at school before he was up to every imaginable species of +mischief that the fertile brain of a school-boy could conceive--provided +its execution did not involve unequivocal untruth or palpable +dishonesty. + +No human being, save one, was exempt from his practical jokes. That one +was his mother. In his wildest moods, a glance of reproach from her +would check him. His father, however, enjoyed no such immunity, and in a +kindly way, he delighted in tormenting the good man whenever the +opportunity offered. + +For instance, that worthy gentleman, among other idiosyncracies, was a +follower of the so-called Dr. Sylvester Graham, an ex-Presbyterian +clergyman who, in 1832, inaugurated, by a familiar course of lectures, a +new system of dietetics. + +The Grahamites, as they were called, held that health is the necessary +result of obeying certain physical laws, and disease the equally certain +result of disobeying them; that all stimulants are pernicious to the +human body, and should be rejected, except in those rare cases where it +becomes necessary to administer one known poison as an antidote to +another equally deadly, in order to neutralize its effects or expel it +from the system. Dr. Graham condemned the use of tea, coffee and spices, +tobacco, opium, and not only alcoholic drinks but even beer and cider, +declaring that all were equally poisonous, and that they only differed +in the degree in which their evil qualities were concentrated or +expanded. + +Ward Glazier held this theory to be the result of a profound philosophy, +and considered the observance of the course of diet he prescribed to be +the only way in which a human being could secure for himself a sound +mind in a sound body. In medicine, Mr. Glazier was an equally rigid +hydropathist. He held that the system of water cure was the only +rational system of healing. One of his individual fancies was to drink +only water obtained from a particular spring. This spring was +beautifully clear and cold, and was situated at the distance of about +sixty rods from the house. It was Willard's allotted duty each day to +fill a large pitcher from its crystal treasures for use at meals. In +order to do this, the brooklet being extremely shallow, and running over +masses of pebbles, he was compelled to kneel and dip it up with a +cup,--an operation requiring both time and patience. Now within a few +yards of this place flowed a small stream or creek considerably deeper +and of larger volume, fed by a number of rills, and as the boy had +conceived the impression that his father only fancied a distinction +where there was really no difference, between the waters of the rival +streams, it occurred to him that he might just as well plunge his +pitcher in the latter, fill it by a single effort, and thus save himself +what he especially disliked,--useless labor. This he did with the +following result: + +Ward Glazier was just about sitting down to dinner as Willard entered, +and observing that his son came from the immediate vicinity of the +creek, poured out and tasted a little of the water with evident +dissatisfaction. + +"Willard," said he, "you didn't get this from the spring; this is creek +water. Now go right back and get a pitcherful from the spring." + +Off started Master Willard to do as he was bidden, but on his way, the +originator of all mischief suggested to his fertile brain the idea of +playing a trick upon his father; so instead of going to the spring, he +simply loitered for a few moments out of sight of such of the family as +might be at the windows, + + "Under an elm whose antique roots peep out + Upon the brook, that brawls along the wood." + +He then quietly sauntered back, with the identical pitcher of water with +which he had come forth. + +"There," said he, emphatically, as if he had fulfilled his mission, at +the same time placing the pitcher near his father's plate upon the +table. The good man took it up, examined the contents with a critical +eye, poured out a glassful of the sparkling liquid and drained it to the +last drop. + +"Ah," said he, with a sigh expressive of great satisfaction, "_that_ is +something like water! _that_ does a man good!" + +This evidence of parental fallibility Master Willard enjoyed hugely, but +it was many years before he ventured to give his father an opportunity +to join in the laugh at his own expense, by telling him of the +occurrence. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + + +WILLARD GLAZIER AT SCHOOL. + + + School-days continued.--Boys will be boys.--Cornelius Carter, the + teacher.--Young Willard's rebellion against + injustice.--Gum-chewing.--Laughable race through the snow.--The + tumble into a snow-bank, and what came of it.--The runaway + caught.--Explanation and reconciliation.--The new master, James + Nichols.--"Spare the rod and spoil the child."--The age of + chivalry not gone.--Magnanimity of a school-boy.--Friendship + between Willard and Henry Abbott.--Good-bye to the "little + deacon." + +Willard Glazier was, by no means, what is termed a bad boy, at school. + +It is true he was full of mischief; was the last in for study and the +first out for recreation, but he was neither disobedient nor inattentive +to his lessons. One scholarly element, however, he lacked. The bump +which phrenologists term reverence had small development in him at this +period of his existence. His record always stood high in the matter of +lessons, but low in the matter of conduct. Instances of insubordination +occurred whenever he thought he was treated unfairly, while no boy was +ever more ready to submit to authority when wisely and justly +administered. The following incident is an illustration in point: + +One of his teachers bore the name of Cornelius Carter. We have been +unable to ascertain this gentleman's nationality, nor would his history, +if known to us, be pertinent to this work, but we have reason to +believe that he was of Scottish descent, if not actually a native of +that + + "Land of brown heath and shaggy wood, + Land of the mountain and the flood." + +At all events he possessed all the sterling qualities of that +clear-headed people. + +A man of fine parts and scholarly attainments, earnestly bent upon doing +his whole duty, vigorous, energetic and thorough in everything, Carter +was just the man to conduct a school with mathematical precision, but at +the same time, his natural irritability was such that the whirlwind was +less fierce than his wrath, when the latter was aroused. About the time +of his advent among the pupils at the Little York public school, +gum-chewing had become an accomplishment among the boys, and though it +was a species of amusement positively forbidden, was carried on +surreptitiously throughout the school. + +One dark winter morning just after a heavy fall of snow, it happened +that our friend Willard, though placed upon a bench in the middle of a +row of these gum-chewing juveniles, was himself not chewing, for the +simple reason that he had no gum to chew, and his next neighbors were +niggardly enough to refuse to give him any. + +Suddenly the hawk eye of Carter swept down upon the offending group; and +quite assured that if mischief was in progress, young Glazier was in it, +came forward and stretching out his long arms, placed his palms upon the +outermost cheek of each "end boy," and brought the heads of the entire +line together with a shock that made them ring again. Then, without a +word, he caught each urchin in turn by the collar of his coat, and with +one vigorous jerk swung him into the middle of the floor and in his +sternest tones bade him stand there until further orders. + +Willard did not at the moment venture to say anything, but stood with +the rest, nursing his wrath. Had he really been at fault he would have +thought nothing of it, but first to have been deprived by circumstances +of the opportunity to break the rules, and then to be punished for a +breach of them, was too much. + +He waited, without a word, until the group of delinquents, after +listening to a scathing lecture, were dismissed to their seats. He then +deliberately proceeded to put his books under his arm, preparatory to +making a start for home. + +One of the monitors, a large boy, observing this movement, informed Mr. +Carter that Willard Glazier was going to "cut for home," in other words, +to leave school without permission. + +The master, upon receiving this intelligence, started down the aisle +towards young Willard; but that restive youth perceiving the movement, +made rapid time for the door, and dashed down-stairs closely pursued by +the now furious pedagogue. + +Having some rods the advantage at the start, the boy reached the +exterior of the building first, and struck out in a straight line for +home. + +[Illustration: Race With The Schoolmaster.] + +The storms which prevailed throughout the entire winter in St. Lawrence +County, had piled up their accumulated snows over the space of ground +that separated the school-house from Willard Glazier's home. Over this +single expanse of deep snow many feet had trodden a hard path, which +alternate melting and freezing had formed into a solid, slippery, +back-bone looking ridge, altogether unsafe for fast travel. Over this +ridge young Willard was now running at the top of his speed. In view of +the probable flogging behind, he took no heed of the perils of the path +before him. + + "So like an arrow, swift he flew + Shot by an archer strong, + So did he fly, which brings me to + The middle of my song." + +As for Carter, not a whit daunted by the icy path and the fact that he +was hatless, in slippers, and clad only in a long, loose summer coat +worn in the heated school-room, he gave chase in gallant style, and +while Willard possessed the advantage of an earlier start, the teacher's +long legs compensated for the time gained by his pupil, and made a +pretty even race of it. + +On he went therefore, his coat-tails standing out straight like the +forks of a boot-jack, and a red bandanna handkerchief streaming in the +wind from his pocket behind like some fierce piratic flag! On, too, went +Master Willard Glazier, until both--one now nearly upon the heels of the +other--reached a troublesome miniature glacier, when each missed his +footing. + +Down went the boy's head and up went the master's heels, and the pair +lay together, panting for breath, in the drifts of a contiguous +snow-bank. + +"Ah, ha!" said Carter, when he had recovered sufficiently to speak, "so +you were going home, were you?" + +"Yes," said young Willard, as his head emerged from the drift, looking +like an animated snow-ball, "and I would have reached there, too, if I +hadn't slipped." + +This was all that was said, at the time, but as Mr. Carter led his +prisoner back, an explanation took place, in which the lad so strongly +insisted that his escapade arose from a sense of the gross injustice +done him, that Carter's own sense of right was touched, and after +admonishing the boy to take a different mode of redressing his +grievances in the future, he agreed to forego the flogging and let +Master Willard finish the remainder of the session in the customary way. + +After this occurrence, Willard got along very well under the tuition of +Mr. Carter, and it was not until some years later, when a gentleman by +the name of Nichols took charge of the school, that anything transpired +worthy of note. + +James Nichols was a devout believer in Solomon's maxim that to spare the +rod is to spoil the child. The whip was his arbiter in all differences +which arose between his pupils and himself. He never paused, as Mr. +Montieth has lately done, to consider that at least two-thirds of the +offences for which children are flogged at school are "crimes for which +they are in nowise responsible," and "when stripped of the color given +to them by senseless and unmeaning rules, they are simply the crimes of +being a boy and being a girl," and are "incited by bad air, cold feet, +overwork and long confinement; crimes which the parents of these same +children are accustomed to excuse in themselves, when they sit in +church, by the dulness of the sermon, or other circumstances that offend +against nature and which they sometimes soothe with fennel or hartshorn, +or change of position, and not unseldom with sleep." In school +discipline Mr. Nichols was a pure materialist. He never realized +Cayley's profound lesson that "education is not the mere storing a +youthful memory with a bundle of facts which it neither digests nor +assimilates," but that it is the formation and training of a mind. Under +his _regime_ the rod ruled everything. Even the offence of whispering +was punished by the lash. + +Upon one occasion, when young Willard was seated between two +brothers--Henry and Brayton Abbott by name--engaged in solving Algebraic +problems, a whispered inquiry, regarding the lesson, passed from one to +the other. + +Mr. Nichols at the moment happened to glance towards them, and +conjectured, by the movement of Willard's lips, that he was violating +the rule against whispering. + +"Willard Glazier!" said he, angrily, "come out here, sir!" + +The boy obeyed. + +"Now then, Willard," said Mr. Nichols, "I presume you understand the +rules of this school?" + +"I think I do, sir." + +"Very well, then you know that whispering during the hours of study is a +breach of its discipline, and that I must punish you." + +Willard said nothing. + +"Have you a knife, sir?" pursued the teacher. + +"No, sir," replied the boy, not quite certain whether the knife was +wanted for the purpose of scalping him, or merely with a view of +amputating the unruly member which had been the instrument of offence. +"Well, take this one," said Nichols, handing him a five-bladed +pocket-knife, with the large blade open, "go out and cut me a good stout +stick." + +The boy by no means relished the prospect this mission suggested, but +seeing no means of escape, he went to a grove in the neighborhood and +cut a stick whose dimensions resembled a young tree--shrewdly suspecting +that Nichols would never venture to use a club of such size. + +With this stick he stalked majestically back to the school-room. As he +entered, he saw Henry Abbott standing up in front of the teacher's desk, +and heard him utter these words: + +"It is not fair, Mr. Nichols, to flog Willard alone. It was my fault, +sir. I beckoned to Brayton and whispered first. That is what started it. +You should whip me, too, sir." + +The master, as we have said, was stern and uncompromising, but his +nature was not entirely devoid of feeling, and as he heard the brave +admission, his eye lighted up with sudden softness. + +"Go back to your seats, boys," said he, "I will not flog either of you +to-day. Lads that are brave enough to face the punishment of one offence +as you have done, can, I hope, be trusted not to soon commit another." + +The incident was one that raised the tone of the whole school, and it +gave rise to a warm feeling of admiration in Willard Glazier's breast +for Henry Abbott which did Willard good, and made the two youths firm +friends. + +Thus the years sped on--dotted with little incidents that seem too +trivial to relate, and yet each one of which had _some_ effect upon the +future life and character of young Willard. He had become a pretty wild +boy by this time, and the cognomen of the "little deacon" was dropped +without ceremony. + +Although he was marked high for scholarly attainment, he received many a +bad mark for violating the rules of school. + +This state of affairs existed until the boy had reached the age of +eleven years, when he was brought into contact with two diametrically +opposite influences, one of which was calculated to _make_ and the other +to mar his future character and fortunes. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + + +ECCENTRICITIES OF HENRY GLAZIER. + + + Henry Glazier.--A singular character.--"Kaw-shaw-gan-ce" and + "Quaw-taw-pee-ah."--Tom Lolar and Henry Glazier.--Attractive + show-bills.--Billy Muldoon and his trombone.--Behind the + scenes.--"Sound your G!"--The mysterious musician.--What happened + to Billy.--"May the divil fly away wid ye!" + +At this time there resided in the paternal homestead a younger brother +of Ward Glazier named Henry, who was Willard's senior by about eleven +years, and, physically speaking, was a splendid specimen of masculine +development. Like his brothers Ward and George, he stood six feet in his +stockings, and literally looked down on his fellows. + +He had conceived a great liking for his nephew Willard, and on many a +hunting excursion in the Great North Woods, the boy was his only +companion. This affection, however, was not unmingled with some contempt +for the lad's diminutive stature. + +Upon one occasion, during a visit to West Boylston, he made it his +business to search out the relatives of Willard's mother, in order to +ascertain what sort of stock she came from. On returning home, this son +of Anak exclaimed, with a dejected air: + +"Mother, I'll be hanged if I ain't discouraged! Our Willard will always +be a little runt. His mother's folks ain't bigger'n a pinch of snuff!" + +How far the prediction has been verified any one who has seen the +compact, sinewy form of the young soldier will understand. + +Henry Glazier reveled in everything sensational. His ideal of heaven was +a succession of tableaux in which he was to play the principal part. + +At one time he joined another eccentric character named Tom Lolar, an +Indian of the Seneca tribe, whose lands in the long ago of Indian +history bordered the blue waters of Lake Seneca in central New York. +This peculiar pair proceeded to electrify certain rural communities in +their immediate neighborhood with huge posters, announcing that on a +given night: + + KAW-SHAW-GAN-CE, + + OR + + THE RED WILD CAT, + + THE + + _Great Chief of the Walaitipu Indians,_ + + Now traveling for the benefit of his tribe, proposes to exhibit + to an enlightened public the + + Trophies won by his Braves, + + In their battles with other Ferocious Tribes beyond the Rocky + Mountains, and the Great Chief will likewise give an + exhibition of the + + WAR DANCES OF HIS NATION. + +Accordingly upon the night in question Tom Lolar as "_Kaw-shaw-gan-ce_," +and Henry Glazier as ticket agent, reaped such an excellent harvest that +the latter concluded to start a "live Indian" upon his own account. + +This he accordingly did, dubbing the prodigy of his creation +"Quaw-taw-pee-ah," or the "Red Wild Cat." + +Whether this venture was successful or not we have failed to learn, but +there is one story connected with it which is too good to be lost, +though it lacks satisfactory evidence of authenticity. + +The legend runs that our enterprising manager went three miles away and +hunted up a genuine old native of Erin who had deserted from the British +army, where he held some position in one of the military bands attached +to a regiment stationed in Canada. With true Irish instinct this exile +of Erin had brought his trombone across the border, and "the +enterprising manager"--to use the language of the bills--"secured in him +the services of an eminent musician, late of Her Majesty's Royal Band," +to discourse sweet music during the entire performance. This and other +attractive announcements drew a goodly crowd of lads and lasses from far +and near to the place appointed, and when the doors--otherwise +tent-flaps--were open, the assemblage marched in to the entrancing +strains of the trombone, as played by "Professor Muldoonati" _alias_ +Billy Muldoon. + +Everything passed off well. "Quaw-taw-pee-ah" presented to the _elite_ +of the locality a type of the aboriginal American, which at least +possessed the merit of originality. If the audience expected to be +astonished they were not disappointed; for such an Indian as they then +beheld no living eye had ever looked upon before. + +Mr. Catlin would have admitted that this noble red man was alien to any +of his tribes, and even Cooper's Leather-Stocking would have conceded +that his was a new revelation of savage humanity. It is barely possible +that Buffalo Bill may have dreamed of something like him, and it is not +impossible that the late Edwin Forrest may have actually been on +speaking terms with his brother, but outside of these two gentlemen, we +do not believe that human imagination ever conceived a child of the +forest in any respect resembling "Quaw-taw-pee-ah" on his opening night. + +It did seem a little singular to combine the convivial music of "St. +Patrick's day in the morning" with such diabolical grimaces and gestures +as those which the Great Chief used in the pantomimic expression of his +sentiments. But the people were prepared for originality, and they had +it. At any rate the performance received their loud applause. At last, +however, it was over: the successive scenes of the programme had come +and gone--the war dances were finished, the curtain had fallen on the +last act, and Billy Muldoon's trombone had subsided into silence. But if +the performance within was wild, it was nothing to the wild night +without. It was the seventeenth of March, and the snow had been steadily +falling since morning, shrouding the hills and all the surrounding +country with a mantle as white and cold as a winding sheet. + +The wind had increased since nightfall, and by the time +"Quaw-taw-pee-ah" had washed his face of its red lead, and Mr. Muldoon +had been paid his share of the proceeds, it was blowing "great guns," as +the sailors say. Out into such a night as this the audience dispersed: +but the lights of home shone through the blinding storm near at hand, +and buffeting with the fierce gusts of whirling snow and wind was only +brave sport for them. Not so, however, with Mr. Billy Muldoon. _His_ +home was three miles away, and though the prospect without was anything +but pleasant, he prepared to face it like a man. His only precaution was +to see that an old army canteen was filled afresh with the best whiskey +the neighborhood afforded. Then he started on his homeward journey. + +At first it was pretty hard work. The snow had drifted into heaps in +some places, and rose almost to the little man's waist. Still he +struggled bravely on, only stopping now and then to celebrate the +anniversary of Ireland's Patron Saint by taking a long pull and a strong +pull at the canteen. + +For a half-hour or more he made but slow progress through the pitiless, +pelting storm, and he heartily cursed his folly in attempting the task +of coming home at all, on such a night as this. But a change came o'er +the spirit of his dream. As the contents of the canteen had diminished, +Billy's spirits had risen in exact proportion, his heart had grown +strong and he began to despise the difficulties in his way. In fact he +was as happy as a prince, and rather liked the idea of facing the snow +drifts and fighting the wind. So on he went. What seemed strange to +Billy was the fact that there seemed to be so much sameness in the +surrounding features of the landscape--or so much of it as he could +discover, during the momentary lulls of the storm. He therefore stopped +short, steadied himself for a moment, and took another drink; which +proceeding seemed to clear up his mind on the puzzled subject, for +muttering that it was "all roight," he once more started forward. + +Another half-hour passed and still another, and yet Billy found the road +open before him, with no sign of his own humble little home. He began to +grow very tired and considerably muddled, and paused at length to +consider the situation. + +In front of him he perceived something so like the lane that led to his +own shanty that he joyfully proceeded, and at length reached what he +believed to be a back door that he had directed his wife to leave "on +the latch" for his return. + +What surprised him was that he could see no light within. He was, +however, sufficiently aware of the fact that he had taken more of "the +crayther" than his good woman would approve of, so not caring to wake +her up, he stole to the door and tried to lift the latch. It was +fastened. Everything within was dark as Erebus, and not a sound could be +heard except the low breathing of what he supposed to be his sleeping +children. This rather excited Billy's wrath. He had been particular in +his injunction to leave the door unbolted, and it was hard to be kept +out in the storm on such a night as this. He called out--at first in a +whisper, then louder and louder--to Kathleen to let him in. There was no +response. Yet he certainly heard the movement of feet within. What could +it mean? The little man finally swore a big oath and fiercely demanded +admittance; but still there came no reply. He then essayed to force the +door, and to his utter amazement the upper part of it gave way, opening +out like a window-shutter, while the lower part remained firm. The +musician therefore climbed up, and seating himself on the edge of the +door, peered in. He could see nothing but a black void. To use his own +figure of speech, "yez might as well hunt for Gineral Washington's will +down a black dog's throat, as attimpt to see the nose on yer face in +there!" + +He was nearly paralyzed with astonishment. Suddenly a bright thought +struck him. He raised his trombone to his lips, and in spite of the +mingled emotions that agitated his breast, blew upon it a blast loud +enough to have waked the dead. + +Imagine therefore how his previous astonishment was deepened into almost +idiotic wonder when he heard a reply from what appeared to be a trombone +of more gigantic power than his own. "Bur-r-r!" went Mr. Muldoon's +instrument. + +"Boo-o-o!" replied the invisible respondent. + +Billy was amazed. Billy was awe-stricken. But the instinct of the +musician rose above all other emotions. + +"Sound your G!" said Billy. + +"Boo-o-o!" was the answer in a deeper base than before. + +"Yer out o' tune, ye domned old fool!" says Billy. + +"Boo-o-o!" came the response once more. + +"Sound yer G, and take that, ye murtherin spalpeen!" said the now +thoroughly exasperated musician, dashing his own instrument in the +direction of his invisible rival. + +Just then poor Billy saw a ferocious-looking pair of eyes glaring at +him, and before he had time to add another word, some huge object rushed +towards him, struck him a determined blow, and lifting him off his perch +sent him into the middle of the road. + +The fact is, Billy had wandered very much out of his way, and had +mistaken Ward Glazier's barn for his own dwelling. The supposed rival +musician was our old acquaintance, "Black-face," the Bull. + +Billy picked himself up from the snow, and, regardless of his bruised +body and aching bones, steadied himself for a last shot at the enemy. +The little man looked in the direction where he thought his adversary +ought to be, and though he could see nothing through the darkness and +storm, he shouted out, in accents of blended dignity and contempt: + +"May the divil fly away wid ye! Ye may be the sthronger of the two, but, +be jabers, yer no museecian!" + +How he eventually got home and what were his sentiments regarding the +adventure with which he had met, are facts that do not concern this +history; but it is quite probable that he wondered as we have often +done, that St. Patrick, while engaged in the laudable task of expelling +snakes from the soil of the Emerald Isle, did not also provide that such +reptiles should keep out of the boots of her sons. + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + + +VISIONS OF THE FUTURE. + + + The big uncle and the little nephew.--Exchange of ideas between the + eccentric Henry Glazier and young Willard.--Inseparable + companions.--Willard's early reading.--Favorite + authors.--Hero-worship of the first Napoleon and Charles XII. of + Sweden.--The genius of good and of evil.--Allen Wight.--A born + teacher.--Reverses of fortune.--The shadow on the + home.--Willard's resolve to seek his fortune and what came of + it.--The sleep under the trees.--The prodigal's return.--"All's + well that ends well." + +Between Henry Glazier and young Willard a singular friendship had sprung +up. The great, six-foot uncle and the quaint, old-fashioned boy were +much together. + +In the woods and fields, at junketings and corn-huskings, the pair were +often seen in grave converse, and while Willard was ever eager to hear +the stories of his uncle's mad adventures and queer scrapes, Henry +Glazier, in turn, would listen with a species of reverent wonder to the +boy's recital of striking passages of history or of fiction which he had +picked up in the course of a varied and desultory reading--a taste for +which was developed even at that early age. The volumes to which he had +access were few in number, but he had read their pages again and again, +and the subjects of which they treated were, for the most part, of just +such a character as were calculated to attract the attention of a youth +of action rather than of thought. + +Among them were "Rollin's Ancient History," "Robinson Crusoe," "The +Arabian Nights," "Life of Charles XII. of Sweden," "Kossuth and his +Generals," and "Napoleon and his Marshals,"--everything relating to the +career of the great Corsican being devoured with the greatest avidity. + +He began, of course, by reading the descriptions of battles. All boys do +so. But gradually his interest in such exciting events extended to the +actors in them, and again to the causes that led to them, and at length +the books were read from the preface to the end. + +The conversations between the uncle and nephew were far from exercising +a good influence over the boy. If Willard related some daring deed from +the life of Charles XII. or of the great Napoleon--his own especial +hero--his uncle Henry would match it with some equally striking, if less +civilized adventure in the forest or upon the river, in which he or some +of his whilom associates had played the principal part. All this was, to +a certain extent, calculated to unsettle the lad's mind for the common, +routine duties of a useful existence. Fortunately, however, at about the +time that it began to produce that effect, another opposite and more +powerful influence was brought to bear upon him which changed the +current of his ambition, and turned his attention to matters less +exciting in their character, but destined to exert a much greater +influence over his future life. I allude to his association with his +teacher, Allen Wight. + +The small, plain brick school-house at Little York stands there, we +believe, to-day as it did then in all its native and naked ugliness. +Such a structure, looking at it aesthetically, is not a cheerful sight +to the lover of learning, but at that period it was under the mastership +of a mind of no ordinary calibre. From all that we can learn of him, +Allen Wight was that remarkable character--a born educator. He did not +believe his duty was performed by merely drilling his pupils, +parrot-like, to repeat other men's sentiments. He knew that the minds of +mortals, particularly if young and fresh, are as diverse in their +springs of action as the laws of the universe, and he conceived it to be +his duty to study the individual characteristics of each scholar under +his charge, as he would have familiarized himself with the notes of a +piece of music before he attempted to play it. His method was that of +the Jesuit, carried out in a Protestant fashion. In young Glazier he +took especial interest. He liked the sturdy little fellow who, though +full of youthful vim, could yet sit down and discuss the difference +between a Macedonian phalanx as described by Rollin and a _corps +d'armee_ as manoeuvred by Soult, and he determined if possible--to use +his own phraseology--"to make a man of him." + +His first step was to lead the boy's mind up to a habit of reasoning +upon the present and the past, and upon the every day world of practical +realities with which he had to do. When this habit had become +sufficiently matured in him, the wise teacher told him the story of his +own life, with its struggles, its disappointments and its triumphs, +thinking thus to stimulate his favorite pupil to greater efforts and +better achievements in the path of knowledge. He talked to young Willard +as he would have talked to a man, yet with all the gentleness of manner +he would have used in addressing a woman. Every incentive which he could +place before the boy, every appeal to both heart and brain which he +could make, Allen Wight used--as the mechanic would use the lever--to +bring out all that was noblest and best in him--to develop all the +sleeping possibilities of his young nature. + +Ward Glazier had not been as prosperous in his worldly affairs as his +patriotism and honesty deserved, and things at the old "Homestead" +looked rather gloomy. Poverty is a fearful darkener of child-life, and +while its shadow rarely fell on Willard, who was always at school or +roving the woods and fields with his uncle Henry, to his sisters and +brothers it frequently presented its dark face and whispered unpleasant +prophesies of the future. + +Of course it was not that abject kind of poverty which stints the supply +of food and fire in a house. It did not still the prattle of the +children, or banish childish mirth from the dwelling. It was not the +wolf at the door, but the wolf in the dim possible distance when the +poor father, bent with age, would perhaps be unable to keep his little +flock together. But the boy had never thought of such a possible time. +_His_ visions of the future were of sights to be seen in the great +world--of a time when he would be large enough and free enough to +accompany his uncle Henry upon some of his wild adventures among +civilized or savage races, and of the delights of unlimited books to be +read upon subjects most congenial to his mind. He therefore made no +allowance for his father's gloomy face and short words, and often +thought him stern when he was only sad. + +A slight incident, however, changed all this and compelled him to face +life not as a dream but as a reality. One evening Willard's father came +home very tired and somewhat dispirited by some adverse circumstances, +such as occur in every man's business life at times, and of course he +was not in the most pleasant frame of mind to encounter the petty +annoyances of a household. Something that Willard said or did, capped +the climax of his irritability and he called the boy a fool. It was a +very unusual thing for Ward Glazier to speak with even apparent +harshness to his children, and the lad felt it, therefore, all the more +keenly. He became very thoughtful and silent, and crept off to bed +earlier than usual only to lie awake most of the night brooding over the +insult, and debating within himself what to do in order to vindicate his +outraged dignity. The conclusion at which he finally arrived was that +when the morning came, he would run away from home and seek his fortune +in the great world. The fact is he had been reading "Robinson Crusoe" +but a day or two previous, and that charming story had made a great +impression on his mind. Under its weird influence his vivid imagination +conjured up possible scenes of adventure in which he was to emulate the +courage and sagacity of that celebrated truant, and eventually come +home, as Robinson did, a man full of knowledge with which to astonish +the family, and with wealth to lavish on brothers and sisters, and make +comfortable the declining years of his parents. "_Then_ his father would +not think him a fool," said this youthful logician to himself. His +active little brain was too highly stimulated by his great resolve to +permit much sleep that night, and his bosom swelled proudly as he +thought how bravely he would encounter misfortune and face danger for +the sake of the glorious future he saw in the distance. His boyish heart +thrilled strangely within him as he pictured to himself how full of +amazement his brothers and sisters would be, when they found he had gone +forth all alone to seek his fortune. Even the little sleep, therefore, +that he obtained, was but a dreamy repetition of his waking thoughts, +and when the first gray streak of dawn told of the coming day, the boy +arose and quietly dressing himself for his journey, emerged from the +house, passed down the avenue under the broad elms and struck the +highway. He shivered a little as the chill air of morning touched his +cheek, and his ambitious dream did not look quite so glowing and +glorious as it had done when snugly ensconced in his comfortable bed, +but still he had a consciousness that he was doing something very manly, +and he walked on with a firm step and determined heart. + +It is true he had no very definite idea of _where_ he was going,--he +only thought of doing great things and seeing strange sights. His whole +plan of travel was comprehended in the one idea of _going out into the +world_. That was all. Accordingly the youth trudged on for miles without +weariness,--for his head was still thronged with thick coming fancies of +the possible future that lay before him, and for some time the exulting +sense of freedom that ever accompanies disenthralment of any kind, +thrilled his whole being with a firm resolution to accomplish great +things. + +At the expiration of a few hours, however, the fatigue involved in so +unusual a tramp before breakfast, began to tell upon him, and as he +mechanically slackened his pace, his reflections assumed a less jubilant +and less satisfactory character. He had walked nearly fourteen miles and +was already footsore. "Going out into the world," began to seem not +quite so enchanting a proceeding as it had appeared to be at starting. +For the first time since the idea of "seeking his fortune" had entered +his mind, he asked himself _where_ he was to seek it. + +The reply to this inquiry was not easy. Meanwhile the sun had mounted +high up in the heavens and was shining brightly, the birds were singing +their matin songs, and in the roadside pastures the cattle were quietly +grazing. It was a peaceful, pastoral scene, but its peace did not enter +the heart of the wanderer. Somehow the world did not appear half so +attractive in his eyes as it had looked when he stole forth from his +father's gate in the cold gray of the morning twilight. His step, +therefore, was less elastic and his bearing less assured now than then, +and at length he sat down under a large beech-tree by the roadside, to +reflect upon the situation. He began to feel very weary, and the sudden +transition from action to repose induced a drowsiness that in a few +minutes overcame his waking sense and launched him into the sea of +forgetfulness. The young head sank lower and lower on his breast, and +finally, sleep ... "that knits up the ravelled sleeve of care,"... +"sore labor's bath, balm of hurt minds, great Nature's second course," +came to him unawares, and for some hours he was totally oblivious of all +surroundings. + +It was a dreamless sleep, and noon had come when he awoke. For a few +moments he was unable to recall where he was or how he had come there, +but in a very short time the recollection of everything that had +happened to him since the evening before swept over his mind like a +flood. Every circumstance now, however, was viewed in a far different +light. Somehow, the provocation which had sent him into the wide world +to seek his fortune did not seem half so great as it had seemed only the +night before. The example of De Foe's hero was not so completely +alluring, and a portion of that history which the evening previous he +had not deemed worthy of a thought, now rose vividly before him. He +seemed to read again these words: + +"My father, a grave, wise man, gave me serious and excellent counsel +against what he saw was my design. He told me it was for men of +desperate fortunes on the one hand, or of aspiring superior fortunes on +the other, who went abroad upon adventures, to rise by enterprise and +make themselves famous in undertakings of a nature out of the common +road: that these things were all either too far above me, or too far +below me: that mine was the middle state or what might be called the +upper station of humble life, which he had found by long experience was +the best state in the world, the most suited to human happiness. The +wise man gave his testimony to this when he prayed to have 'neither +poverty nor riches.'" And then came the thought that all that Robinson +ever gained in fame or fortune, failed to still the quiet but terrible +whisper of his conscience whenever he thought of those he had abandoned +for a roving life. So intently did he think upon these things, he seemed +actually to behold the wanderer upon his sea-girt island with lawless +Will Atkins and the gentle French priest beside him, while the words of +the repentant mutineer seemed to be hissed into his ear:--"No, sir, I +did not cut his throat, but I cut the throat of all his comforts. I +shortened his days and I broke his heart by the most ungrateful, +unnatural return, for the most tender and affectionate treatment that +father ever gave or child could receive." Young Willard could not but +remember that _his_ parents had been most kind and tender, that _his_ +father had lavished upon him during all the years of his childhood a +most prodigal wealth of affection: and the one harsh epithet he had +received seemed as nothing among the multitude of kind and loving words +that had never been withheld from him. His heart told him that something +deeper than any ordinary woe would darken his mother's quiet face when +she beheld his empty chair and realized that he had gone, perhaps never +to return, without one farewell word to her. Such reflections as these, +that he wondered had not occurred to him before, now took possession of +his mind and, impelled by their influence, he arose and slowly started +back towards home. As he came within sight of the old place he saw his +father in the distance reaping, and the sight filled him with gladness. + + "From the top of the road, through the gap was seen + Down a zigzag road cut up by rills, + The velvet valley cradled between + Dark double ridges of 'elm' clad hills; + And just beyond, on the sunniest slope, + With its windows aglint in the sunset warm, + In the spot where he first knew life and hope, + Was the dear old house of the 'Homestead' farm." + +But he was not just then in a frame of mind to meet the parental eye, +and he therefore skirted round a piece of woods which concealed him from +his father's view and reaching the door unobserved, crept into the +house. + +Though his absence had been discovered, and its cause, if not known, at +least shrewdly suspected, his father and mother in their reception of +him very wisely ignored all knowledge of his truancy and treated the +young prodigal with such unusual marks of kindness and indulgence, that +he was completely melted, and felt, with keen remorse, that he had been +upon the eve of becoming a most wretched ingrate. The lesson of the +experiment was not lost upon him, and he never again tried the foolish +venture. + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + + +WILLARD GLAZIER AT HOME. + + + Out of boyhood.--Days of adolescence.--True family pride.--Schemes + for the future.--Willard as a temperance advocate.--Watering his + grandfather's whiskey.--The pump behind the hill. The sleigh-ride + by night.--The "shakedown" at Edwards.--Intoxicated by tobacco + fumes.--The return ride.--Landed in a snow-bank.--Good-bye horses + and sleigh!--Plodding through the snow. + +Ward Glazier--putting his theories to the test of practice--believed it +best to allow the error of his son to work out its own punishment, +without adding a word to indicate that he knew it had been committed. +The wisdom of such reticence is not often recognized by parents placed +in similar circumstances, but it would perhaps be better for the +children if it were. At the same time the father thought it expedient to +apprise Allen Wight of the matter. That gentleman readily acquiescing in +his plans, saw in the recoil which would probably succeed such an +escapade in the mind of a sensitive and generous boy, the opportunity he +sought to arouse him to a sense of the duties that lay before him in his +future career, in living a useful and worthy life. + +One afternoon, therefore, when they were enjoying a quiet chat after +school hours, he managed--without the slightest allusion to the runaway +freak--to turn the conversation to the subject of "self-made men." Not, +be it understood, that species of fungi who only love their maker, +because being + + "_Self_-made, _self_-trained, _self_-satisfied," + +they are + + "Themselves their only daily boast and pride." + +Not the Randall Leslies, or the Peter Firkins of the world or that other + + "Score of Peter Funks, + Of the mock-mining stamp, who deal in chunks + Of confidence, ores and metals as examples + And sell the bowels of the earth by samples;" + +but that higher race who have achieved noble things despite all the +drawbacks of poverty and friendlessness. + +He spoke of Clive, the Shropshire farmer's son, who, according to the +greatest of modern historians, equalled Lucullus in war and Tergot in +peace; that reformer who out of the discordant elements of an Indian +oligarchy consolidated and perfected an empire, one of the most splendid +the world contains. + +He spoke, too, of that other Indian ruler who as he lay dreaming a boy's +day-dream one holiday, upon the bank of a stream that flowed through +Daylesford Manor--the manor which one ancestor's sword had won and +another ancestor's folly had lost--who formed a scheme of life that +culminated in the extension of the same empire beyond all previous +expectation, and in linking his own name so inseparably with the story +of his country, that no man can write the history of England without +writing the life of Warren Hastings. + +Other examples of great ends achieved with little means, by men in our +own land, were talked over. + +Franklin the _boy_, walking up Market street, Philadelphia, a +penny-roll under each arm and munching a third, under the laughing +observation of Miss Read, his future wife--and Franklin the sage and +Minister, representing his government at the most elegant court in +Europe, were contrasted for his edification. Various modern instances +were added, Mr. Wight keeping in view Pope's axiom that + + "Men must be taught as if you taught them not, + And things unknown proposed as things forgot." + +When the boy's mind had been sufficiently awakened he followed the +advice of the old adage to "strike while the iron is hot," and impressed +upon him the fact that being the eldest son he was naturally the prop of +his house; nor did he ignore the truth, unpalatable as it might be, that +Willard could hope for no material aid from the hands of his parents. He +must carve his own way. He must build even the ladder up which he was to +climb. Others had done so--why not he? And then he told him that the way +to do it successfully was to acquire knowledge and cultivate wisdom; for + + "Knowledge and wisdom, far from being one, + Have, oft times, no connection. + Knowledge dwells in the thoughts of other men, + Wisdom in minds attentive to their own." + +Working upon what he rightly conjectured to be the boy's newly awakened +sense of the kindness of his father, he spoke of that good man's +pecuniary reverses, and professed his faith in Willard as the future +regenerator of the fallen fortunes of Ward Glazier's family. + +The boy's generous enthusiasm was awakened at once. His ordinary school +tasks and home duties no longer looked commonplace, and were no longer +distasteful to him. They were but incidents in a general plan of +usefulness, and he performed them with an air of cheerfulness that +pleased his teacher and delighted his parents. He volunteered to help +his father in the fields, and while but a boy in years, he yet performed +the work of a man. In fact, he had discovered that every duty of life +has its heroic side, and needs only the impulse of high and noble +motives to be invested with dignity and interest. + +Meanwhile, he did not neglect his studies. The idea of intellectual +culture was no longer a mere abstraction. Books were not only what they +always had been--reservoirs of knowledge, alluring to his imagination, +and fascinating to his mind--but they were now looked upon as levers, +with which he was to move the world. Knowledge _now_ meant the means +whereby, in the days to come, he was to acquire the power to make his +father and mother comfortable for the balance of their lives; and to +surround his sisters with those luxuries which go far towards making +existence a thing of grace and refinement. When, therefore, he worked +during the warm days of summer, aiding his father in the care of the +farm, the summer evenings found him poring earnestly over his +books--practical and useful ones now--and the harvest once gathered, he +was back again in his old place at school, where he studied steadily and +hard. His teacher, Allen Wight, looked on and was satisfied. And yet +Willard was a wild boy--as wild as any in the school. His relish for fun +and frolic was as keen as ever, but it was now subordinated to his +judgment. His practical jokes were fewer, and the peculiarities of his +father no longer furnished him with a subject for their perpetration. +Now and then, however, the old exuberance of mischief _would_ break out, +and upon one occasion his grandfather became its victim. + +As that mosaic styled "character" is nothing more than an aggregate of +just such trivial things, we trust our readers will pardon us if we +relate the incident in point. + +When Willard was over nine years of age, his father moved from the Old +Homestead and purchased a place named the Goodrich Farm, where he opened +a country store. The venture proved to be an unfortunate one, and, after +a series of pecuniary vicissitudes, he left it, and, at the period to +which we refer, was the occupant of a farm known in that section as the +Davis Place. + +This farm and the Glazier Homestead occupied positions upon opposite +sides of the same public road--the former being one mile nearer the town +of Fullersville. + +Meantime, the Homestead was occupied and cultivated by Jabez Glazier, +the grandfather of Willard, and upon certain occasions the boy was sent +over to stay for a few days at that place, to help the old gentleman in +many little ways connected with its cultivation. + +At that time and in that locality it was customary during the haying +season to deal out to the men employed stated rations of whiskey every +day. A bottle was filled for each one, and, being placed by the +recipient in a swathe of the newly-cut grass, frequent visits were made +to the spot and frequent libations indulged in. Ward Glazier and his +wife being determinedly opposed to the use of ardent spirits under any +circumstances whatever, the custom was dispensed with at the Davis +Place; but at the Old Homestead, under the rule of Jabez Glazier, the +time-honored usage was staunchly maintained. Young Willard had been so +deeply inoculated with his parents' opinions on this subject, that he +had delivered an address before the society of "Sons of Temperance" at +Fullerville even at that early age, and his disgust may be imagined when +he found himself selected by his grandfather to go to the village tavern +for the necessary quantity of "Old Rye." He asked that some other +messenger might be sent, but the old gentleman was inflexible. Nobody +but Willard would satisfy his whim--perhaps because he felt that, in the +custody of his grandson, the "fire-water" would not be tampered with on +its return to the farm. Willard did not openly rebel against his +grandfather's commands--since it was the fashion in those days for +children to be obedient--but turned his attention to gaining his object +by means of a little stratagem. Not far from the house on the road +leading to the store stood an old pump, concealed from view by an +intervening building and a rising hill. Here this youthful disciple of +Father Matthew made it a practice regularly to stop, and pouring out +half the contents of the jug he carried, refilled it with the crystal +liquid from the pump. + +At first this _improvement_ in their potations seemed hardly to attract +the attention of the individuals interested; but, as each day the +proportion of water increased, the dilution at last forced itself upon +their attention, and every one agreed that the tavern-keeper was +cheating Jabez in the "Rye" business. The result of it all was the +withdrawal of Jabez Glazier's custom from the establishment in +question, and the future purchase of "spiritual" goods by Mr. Jabez +himself in person. + +Thus Willard's object was attained, and the cold-water people were no +longer vexed by the inconsistent spectacle of a son of temperance +playing Ganymede to a set of drinking, though by no means drunken, +hay-makers. + +Not often, now, did young Willard figure as chief in any mad scrape or +wild boyish adventure. Those times were left behind. Once, indeed, his +uncle Henry, the patron of the great chief "_Kaw-shaw-gan-ce_," swooped +down upon the household, and, in an enormous four-horse sleigh of his +own construction, took him, together with a gay and festive party of +lads and lasses, off to Edwards, a village nine miles away. Here the +rustic party had a "shake-down," and young Willard got fearfully sick in +a dense atmosphere of tobacco smoke. The feast over, he was tightly +packed in the sleigh with the buxom country girls and their muscular +attendants, while Henry Glazier drove across country through a blinding +snow-storm and over measureless drifts. The party was stranded at last +on a rail fence under the snow, and the living freight flung bodily +forth and buried in the deep drifts. They emerged from their snowy +baptism with many a laugh and scream and shout, and tramped the +remainder of the distance home. The horses having made good their +escape, Willard was carried forward on his uncle Henry's back. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + + +ADVENTURES--EQUINE AND BOVINE. + + + Ward Glazier moves to the Davis Place.--"Far in the lane a lonely + house he found."--Who was Davis?--Description of the place.--A + wild spot for a home.--Willard at work.--Adventure with an + ox-team.--The road, the bridge and the stream.--"As an ox + thirsteth for the water."--Dashed from a precipice!--Willard as a + horse-tamer.--"Chestnut Bess," the blooded mare.--The start for + home.--"Bess" on the rampage.--A lightning dash.--The stooping + arch.--Bruised and unconscious. + +It will be remembered that when Ward Glazier left the Homestead, he +removed to a neighboring farm known as the Goodrich Place,--a fine, +comfortable, well-stocked and well-tilled farm, presenting an appearance +of prosperity to the eye of the observer and calculated to make the +impression that its owner must be well-to-do in the world. As we have +heretofore hinted, however, Ward Glazier failed to prosper there. Why +this was the case it is hard to tell. A late writer has suggested that +"not only the higher intellectual gifts but even the finer moral +emotions are an incumbrance to the fortune-hunter." That "a gentle +disposition and extreme frankness and generosity have been the ruin in a +worldly sense of many a noble spirit;" and he adds that "there is a +degree of cautiousness and distrust and a certain insensibility and +sternness that seem essential to a man who has to bustle through the +world and engineer his own affairs,"--and if he be right, the matter +may be easily understood. + +However that may be, he failed to prosper, and as business misfortunes +began to fall thick and fast upon his head, he gave up the farm to his +creditors, together with all his other effects, and took up his abode at +the Davis Place. + +Who the particular Davis was whose name clung to the place we have been +unable to ascertain, but when Ward Glazier moved there, the house seemed +fairly to scowl upon the passer-by--so utterly unprepossessing was its +appearance. A rude, capacious wooden structure, it stood fronting the +highway, and was a place where the beautiful had no existence. The very +soil looked black and rough--the vegetation rugged. Every inclosure was +of stone or knotted timber, and even a dove-cot which in its fresher +days some hand had placed upon the lawn, was now roofless and shattered, +and lay prone upon the ground, a shapeless mass of collapsed boards. The +lawn--if such it could be named--resembled a bleak shore, blackened with +stranded wrecks of ships whose passengers had long years before gone +down at sea. The broken windows in the dormitories were festooned with +cobwebs that had housed long lines of ancestral spiders, and where a +pane or two of glass remained among the many empty frames, one fancied a +gibbering spectre might look out from the gloomy depths behind. + +The back-ground against which this bleak and sombre place was thrown was +no less grim and stern. Huge rocks in tiers, like stone coffins, rose in +fierce ranges one above another up and up--back and farther back until +they reached a point from whence a miniature forest of dwarf beech and +maple, that appeared to crown the topmost bastion of them all, nodded in +the swaying wind like funeral plumes upon a Titan's hearse. + +In fact, the only gleam of light upon the place--and it was a crazy, +fitful gleam at that--came from a rushing stream that took its source +high up among the hills. This brook first seen off to the extreme left +of the house, came dashing down the rocks until it reached a level. +Then, swinging round with sudden swirl it engirdled the place, and after +many a curious twist and turn got straight again and went onward far off +among the neighboring fields and lost itself at last in the Oswegatchie. +The interior of the house was just as wild and dreary as the exterior. +The rooms, for the most part, were too large for comfort. When one +spoke, a dozen ghostly echoes answered, and at twilight the smaller +children huddled around the kitchen fire and seldom went beyond that +cheerful room until bed time. Often, in the dead of night, the creaking +of timber and the voices of the wind startled the little ones from +sleep, and a sense of something unreal and mysterious overshadowed their +young minds. + +It was, take it all in all, a grim, gaunt, strange place in which to fix +a home. It was there, however, in the midst of such sterile +surroundings, that the next five years of Willard's life were mainly +passed. There were no external influences brought to bear upon this +portion of his existence that were not harsh and wild and stern. His +father, honest even to the verge of fanaticism, was letting his heart +corrode to bitterness under the sense of hopeless indebtedness. The +churlish fields attached to the place offered but a grudging reward for +the hardest labor. There was no hope of his acquiring a profession or +even an education beyond the scant opportunity of Allen Wight's school, +unless he himself could earn the means to pay for it. Still he was +neither discouraged nor without hope. Instead of sinking under this +accumulation of difficulties, his moral fibre was rendered more robust, +and with it his physical strength and usefulness developed daily. + +Thus a year sped on, and at the end of that time his father, as one +means of adding something to his scanty resources, obtained the job of +hauling a quantity of iron ore from the ore beds near Little York to a +forge and furnace at Fullerville. Willard with an ox-team and his uncle +Henry with a span of fine horses, were employed for the most part to do +the actual hauling. + +By this time Willard was quite familiar with the management of horses, +and he had also learned to drive oxen, so that at the age of thirteen he +worked with his ox-team as regularly and almost as efficiently as any of +his grown-up uncles or even his father. The management of an ox-team, by +the way, is quite different from that of horses, and at times it becomes +very troublesome business, requiring for its successful accomplishment +the very nicest admixture of courage, coolness and discretion. Willard, +however, with the self-reliance that always characterizes a boy of his +age, never for a moment doubted that he was adequate to the task, and as +he had been placed in charge of a very fine yoke of oxen, took much +pride in driving them in the same manner as he would have driven a span +of horses, seated on the top of his load upon the wagon instead of being +on foot and close by their heads, as prudence would have taught an +older driver to do. The truth is, that if there was any human being +before whom the boy delighted to exhibit himself as doing a manly part +in his little circle of existence, that being was Henry Glazier. + +Consequently, when his uncle's team was on the road, Master Willard took +a position upon his own load with as important an air as if he were on +the box of a coach-and-four, and guided his cattle as if they were +animals of the most docile disposition, to halt at his whisper or +proceed at his word. As the principal part of the work was performed at +midsummer under the rays of a scorching sun, the cattle were, of course, +irritable and restive to a degree that in colder weather would have +seemed inconsistent with the phlegmatic characteristics of their race. + +The road from Little York to Fullerville is a winding, narrow road, +somewhat hilly in places, and neither very smooth nor level at any +point. Midway between the two villages a brawling stream crosses the +road, and making a turn empties itself, at the distance of about thirty +yards, into the waters of the Oswegatchie. This stream is spanned by a +rustic bridge at a very considerable elevation above the water. The +banks are high and abrupt, and, as the traveler approaches them, he +cannot fail to be attracted by the silvery sparkle of the waters far +below. The view from the bridge takes in the white farm-houses with +their emerald setting of rich grain-fields and meadowlands, the distant +forge with its belching smoke-stacks, the winding Oswegatchie, and the +distant blue hills. If the month happens to be August, the traveler may +hear the cheerful hum of busy industry, the swinging cradles of the +harvesters or the steady roll of the reaper. Upon a day, late in this +richest of summer months--August--in the year of our Lord 1854, Willard +and his uncle Henry were slowly wending their way towards +Fullerville--the former with his ox-team and the latter with a spanking +span of horses. The beasts of burden by their drooping heads and slow +pace evinced the fact that the loads of ore they were drawing were +unusually heavy, and this, combined with the sultry atmosphere, was +telling upon the strength of even such powerful beasts as they. + +Willard, as usual, was seated upon the top of his load, and, as they +neared the bridge, despite his familiarity with every detail of the +scene, a sense of its exquisite beauty took possession of him, and, for +a moment, he forgot that he was driving an ox-team. For a moment he was +oblivious to the fact that it takes all a driver's care and skill to +prevent mischief whenever a thirsty ox obtains a glimpse of water upon a +summer's day. As they neared the bridge, the fevered eyes of the cattle +caught sight of the limpid stream away down below, and, just as a cry of +warning from his uncle recalled the boy to a sense of the deadly peril +of his position, the cattle made an oblique plunge over the edge of the +bank with two tons of iron-ore in lumps varying from five pounds to +fifty, pouring a huge and deadly hail over their reckless heads. With +rare presence of mind for a boy of his age, the instant he heard his +uncle's warning cry, Willard realized the situation and jumped sideways +from the wagon. As he did so, his hat fell off and rolled a short +distance away. At the same moment a lump of ore, weighing not less than +one-hundred pounds, fell upon it and crushed it so deeply into the +ground that it was completely hidden from view. Many months afterwards, +some boys digging for fish-bait found the hat buried there, and returned +to the village with a tale of some possible and unknown murder, +committed when or by whom no one could tell. + +[Illustration: Tragic Experience With An Ox-team.] + +As for the boy himself, he escaped with only a scratch or two and a few +bruises, but that he escaped with his life or with sound limbs was +almost a miracle; and, as his big-hearted uncle picked him up, he hugged +the lad as one snatched from the very jaws of death. Willard was +somewhat awed by the narrowness of his escape, and it was observed that +his face wore an expression a shade graver than was its wont for several +days after the occurrence. + +The lesson, however, made no lasting impression. Scarce a week had gone +by ere his life was once more imperilled, and this time the danger +resulted from his own reckless over-confidence in himself. + +It is a singular fact in the boy's history that every danger to which at +this period of his life he was exposed, seems to have been twin-brother +to some other hazard equally great, and which tripped upon its very +heels. + +As already stated, Willard was a good horseman for a boy of his age. He +possessed considerable nerve, and, having been brought up among horses, +knew a good deal about their ways. But his real knowledge upon the +subject was nothing to that which he thought he possessed; and, though a +stout little fellow, of course he lacked the muscle of steel that is +required to master an enraged horse. But he had never hesitated to ride +any steed in all that neighborhood, with the single exception of one of +a pair of extremely beautiful but vicious mares, which on account of her +color was named "Chestnut Bess." + +This horse was as wild and untamed as the famous steed of Mazeppa, and +even Henry Glazier, master-horseman though he was, seldom attempted to +use this one, except in harness with her mate. The knowledge of this +fact excited an overweening desire in Willard's breast to show them what +_he_ could do in the way of taming the hitherto untamed creature, and +never having been unhorsed in his life, he determined, upon the first +favorable opportunity, to try his powers upon the vicious animal. That +opportunity was not long in coming. One summer morning it was arranged +that Willard should go over to his grandfather's and aid in the +cultivation of a large corn-field on the Homestead Farm. Willard made up +his mind that, if he went, he would go in style on the back of "Chestnut +Bess." He wanted to show his Uncle Henry and the others what the "little +runt" was capable of accomplishing as an equestrian. Accordingly, he +placed a good strong bridle upon the mare's head, gave an extra pull at +the saddle-girth to assure himself there was no possibility of _that_ +failing him, and, taking a hoe, which he wished to use in his work on +the farm, in his right hand, he led the mare quietly down the path, out +through the gate, and into the road. Gathering the reins in his left +hand, without giving her time to conjecture his object--for mounting her +was no easy task--he jumped lightly into the saddle, and screwed his +knees into her sides with all his might. + +Now, this mare was not one of those ordinary quadrupeds possessing a +single vice, which the rider may learn and master. She was an animal of +infinite resources. Her modes of attack were innumerable. It is true she +rather preferred to settle matters upon the very threshold of the +contest in a short, sharp way, by kicking her man before he could mount. +But, if baffled in this design, she would vary the proceedings by +dashing her head down between her knees, sending her heels up in the +air, and, if possible, plunge the rider over her head to the ground; or, +she would waltz round on her hind legs in such a way as to render the +best balanced brain somewhat dizzy and uncertain; in the event of the +failure of these coquettish pleasantries, she had not a single scruple +against playing Shylock, and taking her pound of flesh out of his leg +with her teeth. Thus, you see, it would not do to go to sleep upon her +back; and Master Willard Glazier no sooner found himself firmly seated +than he made up his mind that for the time, at least, he had his hands +full of business. As the mare had been deprived of an opportunity to +kick him, by the suddenness with which he sprang upon her back, she +concluded to try her next favorite line of strategy and shake him off. +So down went her head and up went her heels, and, had he been less on +the alert, he must have gone to earth; but, with his knees dug into her +sides as if they were the opposite jaws of a vice, for every jerk of her +head _down_ he gave one with the reins _up_, and at each jerk the +hoe-handle gave her a rap over the ears, so that she began to find the +fun less agreeable than usual. Changing her tactics, with a bound she +proceeded to execute a fine imitation of the "German," and spin round +like a Fifth Avenue belle or a humming-top. But the boy's young, clear, +temperate brain and well-disciplined nerves were proof even against this +style of attack, and still firm in his seat, he belabored the brute with +his hoe with such a perfect rain of blows that she gave up her prancing +and dashed down the road at a break-neck pace. For perhaps five hundred +yards the road led down hill, and then, crossing a stream, ascended +again, the ascent being quite steep and by no means smooth. + +While upon the descent, it was all Willard could do to hold on, for he +was encumbered with the hoe, which at every jump of the mare struck the +top of her head, until she absolutely flew. The few pedestrians upon the +road that morning stopped in amazement to stare after the mad flight of +horse and rider. + +As soon as the bridge was crossed and they commenced the abrupt rise, +"Chestnut Bess" began to slacken her pace, but the young gentleman, who +by this time considered himself her master, would not agree to this. He +proposed to give her a lesson, so he administered a good thrashing with +his novel style of whip and compelled her to keep her pace all the way +to the top of the hill, where horse and rider at length arrived in +safety. From that point to the Old Homestead the mare was perfectly +willing to jog along quietly, and when they reached the farm you may be +sure that the "spirit" of one "mortal" at least was "proud," as he +related to his wondering kinsman how he had taken the mischief out of +the chestnut mare. + +The boy rose immeasurably in his uncle Henry's estimation by this feat, +and all were delighted with his pluck, though Jabez Glazier, his +grandfather, with his greater experience, warned him not to trust the +beast too far, for, according to his belief, her eye had danger in it +yet. When the day of work was ended, Willard once more mounted upon +"Chestnut Bess" and rode towards home. For a short time the mare trotted +quietly along, and the boy was more than ever convinced that he had +broken her of her tricks. + +This agreeable belief however was of short duration. The thought had +hardly entered his head when she commenced her antics again. Her heels +went skyward and her nose went down, and a repetition of the morning's +performances succeeded. + +There was quite as much vigor and pertinacity in her movements as if she +were just starting out for the day. This time Willard had provided +himself with a stout beech switch, and used its stinging persuasion with +good effect. She danced, she pranced, she waltzed, she made sudden +dashes and full stops. She would have rolled in the gravel if the boy's +switch had ceased stinging her into motives for action, but she could +not shake him off. He clung to her back like a little leech, and it +began to look as if human will-power was going to conquer brute +stubbornness, when suddenly a new idea seemed to enter the animal's +head. Without a moment's warning, and utterly scorning the control of +the bit which she had taken in her teeth, she swung round and at full +gallop made straight for the Homestead farm from which she had so lately +come. The farm-yard gate was wide open and she dashed in, making +directly for the wagon-shed at the extreme end of the place, which was +now empty. This shed, the top of which was supported by a cross-beam, +was only just high enough to permit a wagon to be sheltered there, and +if the horse got in, Willard saw at a glance that she would be obliged +to lower her head to do so, and that in the course of her entry he must +inevitably strike the beam and perhaps be instantly killed or swept off +her back upon a pile of rocks that on either side walled the entrance to +the shed. + +His heart for once failed him, for there seemed no earthly hope of +escape. There was no time to spring off, even if the speed at which he +was going would have permitted him to do so, for in a shorter time than +it has taken to describe the scene, the shed was reached, bang went the +mare's head against the opposite end, and at the same instant Willard +felt a dull thud against his person, realized the fact that he was being +thrown into the air, and then came darkness and unconsciousness. He was +dashed violently upon the stones, and when picked up his body was found +to be much lacerated and bruised. + +Fortunately, however, no bones were broken, though he was obliged to +keep his bed for some days afterwards. No doubt while lying there during +slow convalescence he mused upon the vicissitudes attendant upon the +career of a horse-tamer. At all events from this time he became much +steadier and more prudent,--the wild adventures of his earlier boyhood +having entirely lost their attraction for him. + + + + +CHAPTER IX. + + +THE YOUNG TRAPPER OF THE OSWEGATCHIE. + + + A plan of life.--Determination to procure an education.--A + substitute at the plow.--His father acquiesces in his + determination to become a trapper.--Life in the wild woods along + the Oswegatchie.--The six "dead-falls."--First success.--A + fallacious calculation.--The goal attained.--Seventy-five dollars + in hard cash!--Four terms of academic life.--The youthful + rivals.--Lessons in elocution.--A fight with hair-brushes and + chairs!--"The walking ghost of a kitchen fire."--Renewed + friendship.--Teaching to obtain means for an education. + +At this period of Willard's life, he is described by Mr. Rennehan as +having acquired an appetite for the acquisition of knowledge which soon +became the controlling passion of his nature, and, "thoroughly absorbed +by this idea, he fixed upon the select school of his native town as the +institution best adapted to initiate him in the course suited to the +fulfilment of his laudable ambition." + +But his determination to procure an education met with obstacles from +the outset. How to defray the necessary expenses which such a course +involved was the question which continually presented itself for his +ingenuity to solve. His father's reverses placed it quite beyond the +possibilities to hire help upon the farm, and Willard's services had +therefore come to be looked upon as something of vital importance. + +In dragging from the hard soil of the Davis place the living which +necessity compelled, he performed the work of a man, and the perfect +trust which his father reposed in him gave his services additional +value. + +This fact increased the difficulty of his position; but though he made +it a point to husband all his spare time for self-instruction, he was +far from satisfied with the existing state of affairs, and pondered long +and earnestly over the best means of securing the advantages of regular +instruction. + +At that time the streams tributary to the St. Lawrence were supplied +with such fur-bearing animals as the mink, the musk-rat, the otter, and +the more humble rabbit, the skins of all of which were more or less +valuable and were sought by professional trappers. These men found the +business a reasonably lucrative one, and it commended itself especially +to Willard, as health and strength were the only capital required. The +grand difficulty was how to supply his place in the work of the farm. +His father was a man who always listened with patience and sympathy to +any scheme that promised to benefit his children. His son, therefore, +had no hesitation in laying the whole matter before him and seeking his +advice upon the subject. He felt, of course, that any proposal to +withdraw his personal labor from the common stock of exertion by which +the cultivation of the farm was rendered a possibility, was a direct +pecuniary tax upon his father's resources; but he believed he could to a +great extent neutralize the injury by supplying a substitute. + +He also felt assured that although the step he proposed to take might be +a present loss to the family it would prove an ultimate gain. He was +thoroughly determined to make _his_ life a success, and he was just as +thoroughly determined that any success which might crown his efforts +should be shared by his parents. It is true that the road looked long +and the path rough, but he had a "heart for any fate," and his courage +never failed. A substitute at the plow he knew he could obtain for a +small sum, and the board of such a person would take the place of his +own at the home table, and he never doubted that he could earn a +sufficient surplus to pay the wages of such an assistant. At all events +he made up his mind to try the experiment. + +With young Willard, to think was to act, and this project was no sooner +conceived than he proceeded to put it into execution. He laid his plans +frankly before his father, who, to his great gratification, assented to +his proposal. A man was hired for fifteen dollars a month to take +Willard's place on the farm, and the latter made his first venture as a +trapper. + +His initial experiment was to set six traps of the pattern called a +"dead-fall" or "figure of four," and this resulted in the capture of two +minks worth about eight dollars. With what an exultant heart he drew out +his first mink and realized that by his own unaided exertions he had +made some money, no boy or man need be told. He at once, however, +entered into some rather fallacious calculations and built some +extremely airy castles. It occurred to him that if out of six traps he +could obtain two skins, out of one hundred he could obtain thirty-three, +and so on, in proportion. + +This, however, proved to be a miscalculation, it not being so much the +number of traps set, as the quantity of game in a given locality which +regulates the amount of success for a trapper. Yet his efforts in this +new business succeeded to a gratifying degree, and the fact of having +exchanged the dull monotony of farm drudgery for the exhilarating +excitement of a hunter's life, was in itself a sufficient reward for any +amount of exertion. Indeed what mode of life could be happier or more +free, for a healthy, strong-limbed youth of fifteen, than to live as he +then did, almost entirely in the woods? Then too, his daily route lay in +the midst of some of the finest scenery to be found anywhere in New +York, even in that grand old county of St. Lawrence. + +To a lover of nature nothing could be more alluring than the locality +through which Willard, at that period of his life, trapped and hunted. +To follow the winding waters of the Oswegatchie is to enjoy a perpetual +feast. That river is one of a great family of rivers, among which may be +enumerated the Rackett, the Grasse, the Indian, and the Black, all of +which take their rise far up in the recesses of the great North Woods. +Though not to any extent navigable, it is yet nearly as broad as the +lovely and "blue Juniata" of "peaceful Pennsylvania." + +At times turbulent and brawling, it is often vexed in its passage to the +St. Lawrence by rapids and cataracts varying in height and volume, but +which in their infinite variety give a wild and romantic beauty to this +poetical stream. At times it glides smoothly along through low meadow +lands, and again it plunges into some dense thicket or brawls through +some briery dell where the foliage is so thick that one can only see +the glint and ripple of its waters at rare intervals, shining between +the lapping leaves and tangled vines. Then again it sweeps onward +through cleft rocks and jutting banks until, lost at last in the very +heart of the primeval forest, its twilight waters reflect the images of +giant trees which had their beginning on its banks a century ago. + +[Illustration: The Young Trapper Of The Oswegatchie.] + +Willard's life during that autumn passed in persevering work. Day by day +he traveled his accustomed routes, while the leaves turned from green to +red and from red to russet and brown, and at last fell from the naked +branches of the forest trees with a little farewell rustle, to be +trodden into the rich soil below. + +By the time the first snow came he found himself much more robust +physically, and with seventy-five dollars clear profit in his pocket. In +addition to these advantages he also acquired the inestimable habit of +self-reliance, so that when he entered upon a course of preparation for +his academic life, it was with full faith in himself. For four terms, +beginning August thirteenth, 1857, and ending the latter part of June, +1859, he remained at the excellent institution of learning which he had +selected, and while there gained considerable credit as a hard student. + +During the first of these terms a generous rivalry existed between +himself and a youth by the name of Albert Burt, as to which should lead +the class. As it turned out, however, they kept together and were both +marked "perfect." The academy was under the management of the Rev. E. C. +Bruce, M. A., Principal; and Andrew Roe, Professor of Mathematics. About +a month or six weeks after he entered the school, he arranged to take +lessons in elocution under a Professor Bronson, that gentleman having +organized a large class at the academy. + +In a brief diary kept by him at the time, we find the remark that he was +"greatly pleased with the Professor's method of teaching that important +branch of study." Willard had advanced to the higher grade of Algebra +and Grammar, had added Philosophy to the list of his studies, and having +cultivated a natural turn for public speaking, was elected on the +eighteenth of December, 1857, a member of the Oratorical Society--an +association connected with the institution. His boy experiences were +very similar to those which happen to all lads in academic life. He had +his chums, among whom were Brayton Abbott and Ozias Johnson; he had his +little flirtations with misses of his own age, and he had his fights, as +all boys have. + +Among the latter was one with Johnson, who was his room-mate, and who, +being four years older than himself, undertook, for fun, to rub his face +with a newly-purchased hair-brush. This kind of fun did not suit +Willard, however, and he resented it by giving Johnson a "dig" in the +ribs. Whereupon a fight ensued in earnest, and as Willard was too young +and light to keep up the contest at close quarters, he dodged his +adversary and covered his retreat by dropping chairs in front of +Johnson's legs, which brought that young gentleman to the floor more +than once, to his own intense disgust and Willard's great gratification. +At length Johnson managed to corner his opponent, and then rubbed his +face so thoroughly with the bristles that his comrades that morning +thought he had caught the scarlet-fever, or as Dickens says, that he +was the "walking ghost of a kitchen fire." + +As generally happens, however, between two manly fellows, their combat +inspired a feeling of mutual respect, and from being mere acquaintances +they grew to be fast friends. + +Study and sedentary habits at length so much impaired Willard's health +that, in the latter part of the month of August, 1858, he was compelled +to cease his attendance at school and go home. The thirtieth of +September following, however, found him at the Teachers' Institute of +St. Lawrence County, with the proceedings of which body he appears to +have been highly gratified, for in the diary to which we have already +referred, he speaks of it in these words:-- + +"I am now attending the Teachers' Institute of this county, which is in +session at Gouverneur, it having opened upon the twenty-seventh instant. +The School Commissioners are Mr. C. C. Church and Allen Wight. I am +highly pleased with the proceedings and the method of conducting the +exercises of this apparently indispensable part of a Teacher's +instruction,"--adding that it was his "intention to become a teacher the +coming winter." Indeed, to be a teacher seems to have been his favorite +scheme of life, and his highest ambition was ultimately to fill the +chair of Mathematics in one of the great institutions of learning. That +most exact of sciences was his favorite branch of study, and the +intellectual stimulus which it imparts had for him a peculiar +fascination. + +In pursuance of his object, and in order, by teaching during one part of +the year, to raise means to enable him to attend school during another +portion, he set about procuring for himself a school. Fortunately for +the accomplishment of his object, it was suggested to him to apply to +the School Commissioner of his own Assembly district, and he did so. The +examination which followed his application, owing to some local rivalry, +was extremely rigid; but he passed through it with great credit and +received the appointment he desired, being assigned forthwith to duty in +the town of Edwards, St. Lawrence County. He commenced teaching in the +bleak month of November, 1858, and was very earnest in fulfilling the +duties of his position, taking every opportunity not only of instilling +knowledge into the minds of his pupils, but also striving to imbue them +with a love of self-culture. He labored hard in his efforts to earn +means with which to support himself during the coming summer at the +Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary, and discovered while thus working that +teaching was as much of a discipline for himself as for his pupils. + +The time does not seem to have passed unpleasantly to him at this period +of his career, for in an entry made in his diary on the twenty-eighth of +November, 1858, he says: + +"I am spending the evening with Mr. Hiram Harris and family, having come +into the district this afternoon. My mission here is to teach school for +a term of three months in fulfilment of the contract existing between +the trustees and myself. In compliance with a custom that prevails, I am +expected to 'board around,' as it is styled, and Mr. Harris, being one +of the Trustees, has invited me to spend my first week at his house. + +"The School Commissioner of this Assembly district is Mr. C. C. Church, +of Potsdam, from whom I received a certificate based upon the +recommendation of Commissioner Allen Wight of the first district. The +School Trustees are E. L. Beardsley, Hiram Harris, and Jeptha Clark. The +present term will be my first experience in the profession I have +adopted. I do hope it will prove a useful one, for I am of opinion that +a teacher's first experience is apt to give color to his whole future +career." The day after this entry he adds that "only a small attendance +greeted me upon opening my school," and after consoling himself with the +reflection that this will leave him plenty of time for study, he adopted +a single rule--"Do right;" and an additional motto, "A time and place +for everything and everything in its time and place." + +It will thus be seen that he had already acquired a clear idea of the +importance of order in every pursuit, and knew that method gives to an +ordinary mortal Briaerean arms with which to accomplish whatever he may +desire to do. How few attain to this knowledge until it is too late! + +As a writer, whose words we think worthy of remembrance, has said: + +"This is an era of doing things scientifically. People make scientific +calculations of the weather, and the average number of murders for the +next year. They measure the stars and they measure the affections, both +scientifically. The only thing they fail to do scientifically is, to +manage themselves. As a rule, they _drift_, and then find fault with +fate and Providence because they don't drift into the right port. They +drift _into_ life with a multiplicity of vague dreams, which are +somehow to be realized; but they have a very dim idea of ways and means. +They drift _through_ it, carelessly, with an inadequate knowledge of +their own resources, and a still more inadequate notion of using them to +the best advantage; they drift _out_ of it with a melancholy sense of +failure, both absolutely as to themselves and relatively as to the +world. Of all their splendid possibilities, none are realized. Nothing +is completed. They start wrong or they make one fatal step, and +everything goes wrong all the way through. It seems as if most lives +were only experiments. Now and then one is turned out which fits in its +niche and is tolerably symmetrical. The rest are all awry, unfinished, +misplaced, and merely faint suggestions of what might have been. Much of +this is doubtless beyond mortal control, but a far greater portion is +due to the lack of a nice direction of forces. The human mechanism is +complicated, and a very slight flaw sets it all wrong. There may be too +much steam or too much friction, or too little power or too little +balance. But clearly the first step is to strengthen the weak points, to +gauge its capabilities, to set it running smoothly, and to give it a +definite aim. If existence were simply passive and the mission of man +was to _be_ instead of to _do_, he might perhaps be left to develop as +the trees do, according to his own will or fancy or according to certain +natural laws. But as it is the universal wish wherever one is, to be +somewhere else, a little higher in the scale, it seems to be a part of +wisdom, as well as humanity, to fit one for climbing. But many an +aspirant finds his wings clipped in the beginning of his career, through +the ignorance or carelessness of his friends, who never took the trouble +of measuring his capabilities. He is treated as a receptacle into which +a certain amount of ideas are to be poured, no matter whether they may +answer to anything within him or not. He is turned out of an educational +mill with five hundred others, and with plenty of loose knowledge, but +without the remotest idea of what to do with it, or what nature intended +him for, and with no especial fitness for any one thing. He can _think_, +probably, if he has the requisite amount of brains, but how to establish +a relation between thought and bread and butter is the problem. He has +the requisite motive power, but it is not attached to anything. _He_ +does not know how to attach it, so he revolves in a circle, or makes a +series of floundering experiments, that bear meagre fruit, perhaps when +the better part of his life is gone. He knows _books_, but he does _not_ +know men. He is a master of theories, but cannot apply them. If he has a +small amount of brains, his case is still more hopeless. To be sure, a +proper amount of knowledge has been poured in, but it has all slipped +through. He might have assimilated some other kind of knowledge, but +that particular kind has left him with mental dyspepsia, and a vague +feeling of hopelessness which is likely to prove fatal to all useful +effort. Or perhaps he has talent, but is destitute of the requisite tact +to make it tell upon the world. His success depends largely on his power +to move others, but he has no lever and is forced to rely upon main +strength, which involves a serious expenditure of vitality, with only +doubtful results. He works all his life against perpetual friction, +because no one had the foresight or insight to discern that this was the +flaw in his machinery. + +"Another fatal point is in the choice of a vocation. Having drifted +through an education, he next drifts into his business or profession. He +rarely stops to take an inventory of his capital, or, at best, he takes +a very partial one. Chance or circumstance decides him. His grandfather +sits on the judge's bench. He thinks the judge's bench a desirable +place, so he takes to the law. He puts on his grandfather's coat without +the slightest reference to whether it will fit or not. Perhaps he +intends to grow to _it_, but a willow sapling cannot grow into an oak. +It may grow into a very respectable willow, but if it aspires to the +higher dignity, it will most likely get crushed or blown over. It may be +that he has a grand vision of commercial splendor, and plunges into +business life with a very good idea of Sophocles and Horace and no idea +whatever of trade; with a very good talent for theories, but none +whatever for facts; with some insight into metaphysics, but none at all +into people. Instead of trying his strength in shallow waters, he starts +to cross the Atlantic in a very small skiff. By the time he has reached +mid-ocean he discovers his error, but it is too late to turn back; so he +is buffeted about by winds and waves until he, too, goes down and counts +among the failures. + +"Another of the few points upon which life hinges is marriage, and +people drift into that as they do into everything else. It is one of the +things to be done in order to complete the circle of human experience. A +man is caught by a pretty face and a winning smile. He takes no thought +of the new element he is adding to his life, either with reference to +his outward career or his inward needs. Caprice governs his choice, or +perhaps a hard form of self-interest. Having committed one or two of +the grand errors of life, he settles down to its serious business, and +speedily discovers that he has a dead weight to carry. He has mistaken +his vocation, whatever it may be. + +"He is conscious now that it is too late to change; that he might have +attained supreme excellence in some other calling. He toils with heavy +heart and sinking spirit at the plodding pace of dull mediocrity. His +work is drudgery and wearies him body and soul. Those who once smiled +upon him pass him by. Men of far inferior capabilities distance him in +the race. Perhaps too he has made another misstep, and has a wife who +sympathizes neither with his tastes nor his trials: who has no +comprehension of him whatever, save that he is a being whose business it +is to love her and furnish her with spending money. The beauty which +fascinated him has grown faded and insipid. The pretty coquetries that +won him pall upon him; he is absolutely alone with the burden of life +pressing heavily upon him. Is it strange that he is mastered in the +battle and finally falls beneath the world's pitiless tread? This is a +sad little picture, but it is an every-day one, and the world goes on +its way as before. + +"What matters it that a lonely, dissipated man has lain down in sorrow +to rise no more! The world cannot stop to weep over the remains of the +departed one it has trampled upon. Those whose business it is can take +them on one side, lay them away under the green sod out of sight, shed a +tear perhaps, and pass on until their turn comes to lay down wearily, go +to sleep, and be laid away. The world chides, the world laughs, but it +takes no cognizance of the grief-- + + "'That inward breaks and shows no cause without, + _Why_ the man dies.' + +"Yet there is but the difference of a point in the game between the +victim and the hero. The cards are the same, or the victim, perhaps, +_may_ hold the best trumps, but he plays recklessly, loses his point, +loses his game, loses all! On such slight things does human destiny +hinge. The hero has all his resources at command--his game dimly +outlined. He knows his winning cards, and he plays them skilfully. + +"Every point tells. Nothing is left to chance that can be accomplished +by foresight. He wins the game. He wins the prizes. He has the mastery +of life. The world takes off its hat to him. Fortune and people smile +upon him. Not that he is better than others--very likely he is not so +good. But the world counts results. Becky Sharp is not a model, but +Becky Sharp is a power. The world does not like her in the abstract, but +it likes her dinners, it courts her smiles, it fawns upon her, it +showers its good things upon her, all because _she has mastered it_. +Becky Sharp is not a model. Her aims are unworthy, and her means +unscrupulous; but she reads us a lesson in fact, in foresight, in +energy, in the subtle art of making the most of limited resources. So +long as life is a game, it is worth studying. The difference between +playing it well and playing it ill is the difference between light and +darkness, between joy and desolation, between life and death." + +Even at that early and immature time of his life, Willard Glazier had +thought much upon this subject--examples of the disjointed successes of +all unplanned and unmethodical careers having been brought too +frequently into close proximity to his own door, not to have made an +impression upon his inquiring mind. + +Hence, at the very threshold of his life as a teacher, he resolved to +have plan and purpose clearly defined in everything he did. + + + + +CHAPTER X. + + +THE SOLDIER SCHOOL-MASTER. + + + From boy to man.--The Lyceum debate.--Willard speaks for the + slave.--Entrance to the State Normal School.--Reverses.--Fighting + the world again.--Assistance from fair hands.--Willard meets + Allen Barringer.--John Brown, and what Willard thought of + him.--Principles above bribe.--Examination.--A sleepless + night.--Haunted by the "ghost of possible defeat."--"Here is your + certificate."--The school at Schodack Centre.--At the "Normal" + again.--The Edwards School.--Thirty pupils at two dollars + each.--The "soldier school-master."--Teaches at East + Schodack.--The runaway ride.--Good-by mittens, robes and + whip!--Close of school at East Schodack. + +Although a very boy in years, young Glazier felt himself already +stepping upon the boundary line of manhood and, luckily for his future +welfare, comprehended the manifold dangers and mentally realized the +responsibilities which attend that phase of human existence. + +Upon the fifth of February, 1857, the dull routine of a teacher's duty +was varied by a visit made to Edwards by Willard's uncle Joseph, and his +sisters; and, after closing his school, the former went home with his +visitors, and thence to a Lyceum which had been established in the +Herrick School District, where a debate was in progress as to the +relative importance, in a humanitarian point of view, of the bondage of +the African race in the Southern States, or the decadence of the +Indian tribes under the encroachments of the Whites. The "question" +assumed that the Aborigines were most worthy of sympathy; and young +Glazier, being invited to participate in the discussion, accepted, and +spoke upon the negative side of the question. + +[Illustration: Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary.] + +He little dreamed upon that winter's night, when, in the small arena of +a village debating-club, he stood up as the champion of the slave, that +the day was not far distant when he would ride rowel-deep in carnage +upon battle-fields which war's sad havoc had made sickening, fighting +for the same cause in whose behalf he now so eloquently spoke. + +No prophetic vision of what fate held in store for him appeared to the +ardent boy, speaking for those who could not rise from the darkness of +their bondage to speak for themselves. No glimpse of weary months +dragged out in Confederate prisons--of hair-breadth escapes from dangers +dread and manifold--of hiding in newly-dug graves made to assist the +flight of the living, not to entomb the dead--of lying in jungles and +cypress-swamps while fierce men and baffled hounds were panting for his +blood--of vicissitudes and perils more like the wild creations of some +fevered dream than the plain and unvarnished reality: nothing of all +this came before him to trouble his young hopes or cloud his bright +anticipations of the future. + +He spoke of freedom, and had never seen a slave. He pictured the cruelty +of the lash used in a Christian land on Christian woman, be she black or +white. He spoke of the deeper wrong of tearing the new-born babe from +its mother's breast to sell it by the pound--of dragging the woman +herself from the father of her child and compelling her to mate with +other men--of the fact that such wrongs were not alone the offspring of +cruel hearts, nor of brutal owners, but arose from the mere operation of +barbarous laws where masters, if left to themselves, would have been +most kind. He spoke of such things as these, and yet he never dreamed +that his words were but the precursors of deeds that would make mere +words seem spiritless and tame. + +Young Glazier spoke well. The little magnates of the place,--the older +men, after this, talked of him as of one likely to rise, to become a man +of note, and their manner grew more respectful towards the young +school-master. His occupations and amusements at this period of his +existence, though simple in their character, were considerably varied. + +Among other entries in his journal about this date, is one that so +commends itself by its brevity and comprehensiveness that I quote it +_verbatim_. + +"Having," he says, "received an invitation upon the twenty-fourth of +December, I attended a party at the residence of Jeptha Clark, whose +excellent wife received me very kindly; upon Christmas day I visited T. +L. Turnbull's school at Fullerville; upon Monday last called at Mr. +Austin's school in the Herrick District; Tuesday, dropped down for a +moment upon the students at Gouverneur; on Wednesday, returned home; and +on Thursday, for the greater part of the day, assisted uncle Joseph in +hauling wood from the swamps on the Davis Place." + +Thus the time slipped rapidly by and his first term of teaching drew to +a close. In the spring of 1859 he again became a member of the +Gouverneur Wesleyan Seminary, and in May of that year, made the +following characteristic entry in his diary: + +"'Order is Heaven's first law.' A time and place for everything, and +everything in its time and place, was the rule of conduct I adopted some +time ago. In accordance with this determination I have laid out the +following routine of occupation for each day. I intend to abide by it +during the present term. I will retire at ten o'clock P. M., rise each +morning at five o'clock, walk and exercise until six, then return to my +room, breakfast and read history until eight, then repeat what the +English call a 'constitutional,' viz.: another walk until prayers, +devoting the time intervening between prayers and recitation, to +Algebra. After recitation, I will study Geometry for three-quarters of +an hour, Latin for half an hour, and be ready for recitation again at +two o'clock. This will complete my regular course of study, and, by +carrying out this routine, I can dine at noon, and also have a +considerable amount of time for miscellaneous reading and writing, to +say nothing of my Saturdays, upon which I can review the studies of the +week." + +To this plan young Glazier adhered conscientiously, and hence made rapid +progress and very soon found himself in a condition to take another +forward step in the pathway of learning. That step was the entrance to +the State Normal School at Albany. To go to West Point and receive the +military training which our government benevolently bestows upon her +sons at that institution, had been his pet ambition for years--the +scheme towards which all his energies were bent. But failing in this, +his next choice was the Normal School. Accordingly, on a certain +September afternoon in 1859, he found himself in the capital city of the +Empire State, knocking for admission at the doors of the Normal School. +He was alone and among strangers in a great city, with a purse +containing the sum of eight dollars! For a course of seven or eight +months instruction this was certainly a modest estimate of expenses! In +fact, young Glazier had based his financial arrangements on a +miscalculation of the amount furnished by the State. He did not then +know that the only provision made by the body politic was for mileage, +tuition and text-books. But on Monday morning, September seventeenth, +1859, he signed his name to the Normal pledge, and at the conclusion of +the examination--which continued until September twenty-third--was +assigned to the Junior Class--there being at that time four classes: the +Senior and sub-Senior, Junior and sub-Junior. + +The next step was to find lodgings at a weekly or monthly price more +suited to his means than those which he had temporarily taken at the +Adams House on his arrival there the previous evening. Always frugal in +regard to his personal expenditures, he knew that, in order to eke out +the full term with his scanty resources, he must carry his habitual +thrift to its fullest extent. He therefore scoured the town for +apartments, aided by references from Professor Cochran, principal of the +Normal, and finally obtained a room on Lydius street, almost within +shadow of the Cathedral, and at the certainly reasonable rate of "six +shillings per week." This room he shared with Alexander S. Hunter, from +Schoharie County, and a member of the sub-Senior Class. For several +weeks the young students boarded at this place, buying what food they +required, which the landlady cooked for them free of charge. +Seventy-five cents a week paid for their cooking and rent! + +But even this small outlay soon exhausted the meagre resources of young +Glazier and, at the end of the time mentioned, he went over into +Rensselaer County, to look up a school, in order to replenish his +well-nigh empty purse, and to enable him to continue in his efforts to +acquire an education. It was a bright clear morning in November when he +left his boarding-place on Lydius street in quest of his self-appointed +work, and, crossing the Hudson on a ferry-boat, walked all the way to +Nassau by the Bloomingdale Road--a distance of sixteen miles. His object +was to find Allen Barringer, School Commissioner for Rensselaer County, +who, as he had been told, lived somewhere near Nassau. On the way to +that village he passed two or three schools, concerning which he made +inquiries, with a view to engaging some one of them on his return to +Albany should he be so successful as to obtain a certificate from Mr. +Barringer. At about two o'clock in the afternoon of this, to him, +eventful day, young Glazier had arrived at the residence of Harmon +Payne, near East Schodack, or "Scott's Corners," as it was sometimes +called. He had been referred to this gentleman as one likely to assist +him in his endeavors to obtain a school. He had eaten nothing since +morning, and, having walked a distance of nearly sixteen miles, as may +be imagined, was somewhat faint and hungry. But the good wife of Mr. +Payne showed herself not lacking in the kindly courtesy belonging to a +gentlewoman, and, with true hospitality, placed before the young Normal +student a delicious repast of bread and honey. + +To this youthful wayfarer, with a purse reduced to a cypher, and +struggling over the first rough places in the pathway of life, the +simple meal was like manna in the wilderness. After chatting pleasantly +with the family for an hour or more, he started again on his journey. +But this time not alone; for Mr. Payne very kindly sent his niece with +the boy teacher, in whom he had become so much interested, to show him a +shorter route "across lots" to East Schodack. This village, two miles +farther on, by the traveled highway, was only three-quarters of a mile +distant by a pathway leading across the pasture lands of some adjoining +farms. In the fading November afternoon the young lady and her _protege_ +walked together to East Schodack--a walk which young Willard never +forgot, and out of which afterwards grew a fairy fabric of romantic +regard glittering with all the rainbow hues of boyish sentiment, and +falling collapsed in the after-crash of life, like many another +soap-bubble experience of first young days. + +But he did not succeed, at that time, in securing the East Schodack +School, as he had hoped to do. Nothing daunted, however, he trod +reverses under foot and pushed on towards the residence of the School +Commissioner whose _ipse dixit_ was to award him success or failure. + +Allen Barringer lived one mile from the village of Nassau, in Rensselaer +County, and it was nearly nightfall when, with an anxious heart and +weary with the day's journey, he knocked at the door of the comfortable +country residence which had been pointed out to him as the one +belonging to the School Commissioner. That gentleman himself came to the +door in answer to his knock, and upon Willard's inquiry for Mr. +Barringer replied: + +"I am Mr. Barringer, sir; what can I do for you?" + +His manner was so pleasant and his face so genial that young Glazier, at +once reassured, had no difficulty in making known his business. + +"I have come out here from Albany," said he, "to see if I could pass +examination for a certificate, to teach in your district." + +"Well, come in, come in," said Mr. Barringer, cordially, "and I will see +what I can do for you. You are not going back to Albany to-night?" he +asked. + +"No, I shall not be able to do so," replied Willard. + +"Have you friends or relatives here with whom you intend to stay?" + +"No, sir." + +"Then I shall be glad to have you stop with us to-night. I am a young +man like yourself, living at home here with my parents, as you see; I am +fond of company, and will be happy to place my room at your disposal. +And as there will be no hurry about the examination, we will talk more +about it after supper." + +Young Glazier thanked his host for the kind proffer of entertainment, +and of course acquiesced in the arrangement. + +Accordingly, after the physical man had been refreshed at a well-spread +supper-table, Mr. Barringer conducted his young guest to his own +apartments, where they drew their easy-chairs before a comfortable fire, +and entered into conversation. + +"I am considerably interested in politics just now," said Mr. Barringer, +and then he asked abruptly, "what is your opinion of John Brown?" + +At this time the first red flash of the war that swiftly followed, had +glowered athwart the political horizon, in the John Brown raid at +Harper's Ferry, and against this lurid background the figure of the +stern old man stood out in strong relief. It was at the period when, +shut up in prison, he was writing those heroic words to his wife, those +loving words of farewell to his children; when petitions poured in +pleading for his life--though they were petitions all in vain--and when, +naturally, partisan feeling on the subject was at its height. Willard +felt that in expressing his candid convictions he might be treading on +dangerous ground, and perhaps endangering his chances for success, yet +he held principle so high, and honest sentiment so far above bribe, that +if his certificate had depended on it he would not have hesitated to +express his admiration for the brave old man who laid down his life for +the slave, and whose name has since been crowned with the immortelles of +fame. Therefore Willard replied with a frankness worthy of emulation +that he looked upon John Brown as a conscientious, earnest, devoted +man--a man whose face was firmly set in the path of duty though that +path led to imprisonment and the gallows; a man much in advance of his +time--one of the pioneers of free thought, suffering for the sacred +cause, as pioneers in all great movements always suffer. He spoke with a +modest fearlessness known sometimes to youth and to few men. Mr. +Barringer replied that, though he held different views, he could not but +admire Willard's frankness in avowing his own political convictions, +and that this independence in principle would in nowise detract from his +previously formed good opinion of him. Afterwards, Mr. Barringer +examined him in the common English branches of study, besides astronomy, +philosophy and algebra--studies usually taught in the public schools of +Rensselaer County. In this way, with much pleasant talk dropped at +intervals through the official business of examination, interspersed +with politics and concluded with social chat, an agreeable evening +passed. + +[Illustration: Old State Normal School. Albany, New York.] + +Mr. Barringer at last said good-night to the young Normal student, with +the remark that he would see what could be done for him in the morning. + +Not much sleep visited Willard's eyes that night, with the ghost of +possible defeat haunting his wakeful senses, stretched to their utmost +tension of anxiety. + +Would he, or would he not, receive in the morning the certificate he +sought? This was the thought tossed continually up on the topmost wave +of his consciousness all the night long. Morning dawned at last, much to +his relief. When Mr. Barringer came to his door to announce breakfast, +he handed Willard the coveted piece of paper. + +"Now then," said he, cheerily, "here is your certificate, and as I am +going to drive over to Albany after breakfast, if you have no particular +school in view, I shall be glad to have you ride with me as far as +Schodack Centre, where I have some very good friends, and will introduce +you to the trustees of the district, Messrs. Brockway, Hover and +Knickerbocker." + +Accordingly they drove over to the residence of Milton Knickerbocker, +school trustee of District No. 7, of the town of Schodack. + +That gentleman thanked the School Commissioner for bringing the young +teacher over, said that he would be pleased to engage him, and that it +was only necessary to see another trustee, George Brockway, to make the +engagement final. Mr. Knickerbocker then accompanied young Glazier to +the residence of Mr. Brockway, where arrangements were made for him to +teach the school at Schodack Centre. He then walked back to Albany. + +Willard had said nothing to his landlady, on Lydius street, concerning +his intended absence, fearing he might have to report the failure of his +project, and on the evening of his return to Albany--having been away +for thirty-six hours--was surprised to find that the family were just +about to advertise him in the city papers, thinking some strange fate +had befallen him,--that he had perhaps committed suicide. + +In just one week from the time Glazier engaged his school at Schodack +Centre, he returned to that place, and taught the young Schodackers +successfully through the specified term, after which he went to Albany +and passed the next Normal School term. On the twelfth of July +following, he left Albany for the home farm, where he worked until the +first of September. He then went on a prospecting tour out to Edwards, +near the field of his former efforts, and canvassed for scholars at two +dollars each, for a term of eight weeks. His object was to teach during +the fall and winter months and return to Albany in the spring. This +energetic youth of eighteen succeeded in obtaining about thirty pupils, +among whom were six teachers--one of them having taught four terms. + +Among the incidents of his school experience at this time may be +mentioned the fact of a series of drill tactics, originated by himself, +with which he practised his pupils so thoroughly that they were enabled +to go through all the regular evolutions set down in Hardee. Yet he had +never seen the drill-book. + +It may be regarded as one of those outcroppings of his natural bent +towards the military art which he displayed from his very infancy; for +true military genius, like true poetical genius, is born, not made. Of +course our young tactician soon made himself known, and throughout the +district he was distinguished by the title of the "Soldier-Schoolmaster." + +It was an involuntary tribute yielded by public sentiment to the boy who +afterwards became the "Soldier-Author." + +This boy-teacher, young as he was, marshaled all his pupils into +disciplined order, like the rank and file of the army, and somehow held +natural words of command at his disposal whereby he wielded the human +material given into his charge, as a general might wield the forces +under his command. The school was his miniature world and he was its +master--his diminutive kingdom wherein he was king; and within the +boundary of this chosen realm his sway was absolute. + +First the "Soldier-Schoolmaster," drilling his boy-pupils; then the +Soldier of the Saddle, riding through shot and shell and war's fierce +din on Virginia's historic fields; and last, but perhaps not least, the +"Soldier-Author," winning golden opinions from press and people; through +all these changes of his life, from boy to man, one characteristic shows +plain and clear--his military bent. It is like the one bright stripe +through a neutral ground, the one vein of ore deposit through the +various stratifications of its native rock. + +The Edwards Select School was continued until the first of November, +when Glazier left home once more, this time in company with his sister +Marjorie, bound for Troy. On arriving at that city he left his sister at +the house of an old friend, Alexander McCoy, and went down into +Rensselaer County a second time in search of a school, or rather two +schools--one for his sister as well as one for himself. He succeeded in +obtaining both of them on the same day, and went back to Troy that +night. His own district was East Schodack, near Schodack Centre, where +he had previously taught, and his sister secured the school two miles +north of the village of Castleton and six miles distant from Albany. + +The little school-house near Castleton, where his sister taught, was +located in a lovely spot on a height overlooking the Hudson and +commanding a fine view of the river and the surrounding scenery. + +During the school term in their respective districts, it was Willard +Glazier's habit to visit his sister once a week, on Saturday or Sunday, +and on several occasions a gentleman living at East Schodack, William +Westfall by name, who owned a fine horse and sleigh, loaned him the use +of his conveyance to drive to Castleton and return. The sleigh was +provided with warm robes of fur and the horse was beyond doubt spirited, +and a handsome specimen of the genus horse. But as we cannot look for +absolute perfection in anything pertaining to earth, it may be stated +that this animal was no exception to the universal rule. He had his +fault, as young Glazier discovered--a disagreeable habit of running +away every time he saw a train of cars. Perhaps the horse couldn't help +it; it was no doubt an inherited disposition, descended to him through +long lines of fractious ancestors, and therefore it need not be set down +against him in the catalogue of wilful sins. But whether so or +otherwise, this little unpleasantness in his disposition was an +established fact, and unfortunately there were two railroads to cross +between East Schodack and Castleton. On Glazier's first ride to +Castleton with the Westfall horse and sleigh, he had just crossed the +Boston and Albany Railroad when a freight-train rolled heavily by, which +put the horse under excellent headway, and on reaching the Hudson River +Railroad--the two tracks running very near each other--a passenger train +came up behind him. This completed the aggregation of causes, and away +flew the horse down the road to Castleton at break-neck speed. Fences +disappeared like gray streaks in the distance; roadside cottages came in +view and were swiftly left behind in the track of the foam-flecked +animal. All that Glazier could do was to keep him in the road, until at +length an old shed by the roadside served his purpose, and running him +into it, the horse, puffing and snorting, was obliged to stop. On his +return to East Schodack, Mr. Westfall asked him how he liked the horse. +He replied that he thought the animal a splendid traveler. He _did_ +think so, beyond question. + +The next Sunday young Glazier was driving again to Castleton with the +same stylish turn-out; this time with his sister Marjorie in the sleigh. +She had come up to East Schodack the evening before, and he was taking +her back to her school. The sleighing was excellent, the day fine, and +all went merry as a marriage bell until they reached the railroad. There +the inevitable train of cars loomed in view, and the puff, puff of the +engine, sending out great volumes of steam and its wild screech at the +crossing, completely upset what few ideas of propriety and steady travel +this horse may have had in his poor, bewildered head, and, with a leap +and a jerk, he was once more running away on the Castleton Road as if +the entire host of the nether regions were let loose after him. + +For a little while he made things around them as lively as a pot of +yeast. Away went whip, robes, mittens and everything else lying loose in +the bottom of the sleigh at all calculated to yield to the velocity of a +whirlwind or a runaway. But Glazier proved himself master of the +situation in this as in many another event of his life, and with one +hand holding his frightened sister from jumping out of the sleigh, with +the other he twisted the lines firmly around his wrist and kept the +horse in the road, until, at the distance of three-quarters of a mile +beyond Castleton, he brought the infuriated animal to a stand-still by +running him against the side of a barn. Afterwards he drove leisurely +back and picked up the robes, and whip and articles spilled during the +wild runaway ride. + +A broken shaft was the only result of this last adventure, which Glazier +of course, put in repair before his return to East Schodack. Mr. +Westfall never knew until after the close of the school term that his +horse had afforded the young teacher an opportunity to tell what he knew +about runaways. + +The school at East Schodack closed with an exhibition exceedingly +creditable to the efforts of the teacher, at which Mr. Allen Barringer +was present, and in a speech before the school complimented young +Glazier in the highest terms. The programme of exercises was an +excellent one, and was made up of original addresses, declamations, +recitations and music. After the close of the school, Mr. Barringer +presented Glazier with a certificate which entitled him to teach for +three years, and also gave him in addition the following letter of +recommendation--a tribute of which any young teacher might be justly +proud, and which he carefully preserved: + + "To Whom it May Concern: + + "This is to certify, that I am well acquainted with Willard + Glazier, he having taught school during the winters of 1859 and '60 + in my Commission District. I consider him one of the most promising + young teachers of my acquaintance. The school that has the good + fortune to secure his services will find him one of the most + capable and efficient teachers of the day. + + "Allen Barringer, + + "School Commissioner, Rensselaer County. + + "Schodack, New York, 1860." + +Early in the year 1860 he resumed his studies at the State Normal +School, and remained at that institution until the guns of Sumter +sounded their war-cry through the land. + +This period was the great turning-point in Willard Glazier's life, and +hereafter we encounter him in a far different _role_. + + + + +CHAPTER XI + + +INTRODUCTION TO MILITARY LIFE. + + + The mutterings of war.--Enlistment.--At Camp Howe.--First + experience as a soldier.--"One step to the front!"--Beyond + Washington.--On guard.--Promotion.--Recruiting service.--The + deserted home on Arlington Heights.--"How shall I behave in the + coming battle?"--The brave Bayard.--On the march.--The stratagem + at Falmouth Heights.--A brilliant charge.--After the battle. + +The inevitable results of the discord so long pending between North and +South accumulated day by day; and when, at length, Abraham Lincoln was +elected by a large popular majority, that election was, as everybody +knows, immediately followed by the calling of a Southern States +Convention, the secession, one after another, of each of those States, +the capture of Fort Sumter, the killing of Ellsworth, and the defeat of +the Federal troops at Bull Run. All of these occurrences contributed to +inflame the passions, intensify the opinions, and arouse the enthusiasm +of the people of both sections to fever-heat. + +It was in the whirl and torrent of this popular storm that Willard +Glazier was caught up and swept into the ranks of the Union army. + +His regiment, the Harris Light Cavalry, was originally intended for the +regular service--to rank as the Seventh Regular Cavalry. The general +government, however, concluded to limit the number of their regiments of +horse to six--the reasons for which are given by Captain Glazier in +his "Soldiers of the Saddle," as follows: + +"Under the military _regime_ of General Scott, the cavalry arm of the +service had been almost entirely overlooked. His previous campaigns in +Mexico, which consisted chiefly of the investment of walled towns and of +assaults on fortresses, had not been favorable to extensive cavalry +operations, and he was not disposed, at so advanced an age in life, +materially to change his tactics of war." + +[Illustration: A Cavalry Column On The March.] + +Hence, this regiment was mustered into service as the "Second Regiment +of New York Cavalry," and, as Senator Ira Harris had extended to the +organization the influence of his name and purse, it soon came to be +called the "Harris Light Cavalry," and retained that title throughout +the whole of its eventful career. The natural tastes of young Glazier +led him into this branch of the service in preference to the infantry, +and we find him writing to his sister Marjorie as follows: + + + Camp Howe, near Scarsdale, New York, + _August 16th, 1861_. + + My Dear Sister: From the post-mark of this letter you will at once + conjecture the truth ere I tell it to you, and I can fancy you + saying to yourself when you glance at it: "Willard is no longer + talking about enlisting but has really entered the army." You are + right, I now wear the Union Blue. + + Many of our home friends will doubtless wonder why I have + sacrificed my professional prospects at a time when they first + began to look cheering, in order to share the hardships and perils + of a soldier's life. But I need not explain, to _you_, my reasons + for doing so. When our country is threatened with destruction by + base and designing men, in order to gratify personal ambition and + love of sway, it becomes her sons to go to her rescue and avert the + impending ruin. The rebelling South has yet to learn the difference + between the _true principles_ of the Constitution and the + _delusion_ of "State rights." It is as easy to die a volunteer as a + drafted soldier, and in my opinion, is infinitely more honorable. + I shall return to my studies as soon as the Rebellion is put down + and the authority of our Government fully restored, and not _until_ + then. + + Let me give you a sketch of our movements thus far. Having reached + Troy at 3 o'clock on the afternoon of the day you and I parted, I + spent the remainder of the evening until 8 o'clock in the city. At + that hour we embarked for New York, and the boys had a very + exciting and enthusiastic time on board the steamer Vanderbilt. + Wednesday was spent at 648 Broadway, Regimental Headquarters of the + "Harris Light Cavalry;" and on that night we came by train to our + present camp: or, rather, as near it as we could, for it is two + miles from the nearest station. The spot is picturesque enough to + be described. An old farm, surrounded by stone fences that look + like ramparts, constitutes the camp. The Hudson and Harlem rivers + are in full view, and the country around is full of beauty. On the + first night we _bivouacked_ upon the bare sod, with no covering for + our bodies but the broad canopy of heaven. It was not until a late + hour on the following afternoon that our white tents began to dot + the ground and gleam through the dark foliage of the trees. + + Crowds of visitors from the neighboring village come out every day + to see us. My health was never better, and this sort of life + affords me keen enjoyment. The very roughness of it is + invigorating. My present writing-desk is the top of the stone wall + I have alluded to, so you must criticise neither my penmanship nor + my style. I received a letter from father on Tuesday afternoon, + and, thank God! I enter the service with his full approbation. The + discipline enforced here is strict, our rations are good, fruit is + very abundant, and to be had for the asking; so that if you will + only write soon and often, there will be little else required to + fill the wants of + + Your affectionate brother, Willard. + + +Fortunately for their future comfort, the Harris Light Cavalry, at the +very outset of its military career, was placed under the charge of a +rigid and skilful disciplinarian--one Captain A. N. Duffie--who, having +graduated honorably at the celebrated French military school, St. Cyr, +possessed all the martial enthusiasm as well as personal peculiarities +of his excitable countrymen. + +The captain either was, or believed himself to be, an eloquent speaker, +and his efforts at rhetorical display, added to his French pronunciation +of English words, became a source of great amusement to the men. He was +wont to harangue them, as if they were about to enter upon a sanguinary +battle. The old stone walls of the peaceful farm were pictured as +bristling with the enemy's bayonets, and the boys were called on to +"charge" at the hidden foe and capture him. + +"One morning," says Captain Glazier, "after a week spent in drill, we +were all surprised by receiving an order to 'fall into line,' and +discovered that the object of this movement was to listen to a +Napoleonic harangue from Captain Duffie. So loud had been our protests, +so manifest our rebellious spirit on the subject of fortifying a +peaceful farm on the banks of the Hudson, that the captain undoubtedly +feared he might not be very zealously supported by us in his future +movements, and, like Napoleon on assuming command of the Army of Italy, +sought to test the devotion of his men. After amusing us a-while in +broken English, appealing to our patriotism and honor, he at length +shouted: + +"'Now, as many of you as are ready to follow me to the cannon's mouth, +take one step to the front!' + +"This _ruse_ was perfectly successful, and the whole line took the +desired step." + +The time passed pleasantly enough in this camp of instruction, despite +the monotony of drill and guard duty, and, by the time the order to +break camp reached the men, they were well advanced in the duties of the +soldier. + +The regiment left Camp Howe about the end of August, and, passing +through New York, entered that most beautiful and patriotic of cities, +Philadelphia, where they were royally entertained by the managers of the +"Volunteer Refreshment Saloon." They at length reached Washington and +encamped a half mile beyond the Capitol. + +From this point Glazier writes to his mother as follows: + + + Camp Oregon, + Near Washington, D.C., + _August 25th, 1861_. + + Dear Mother: I am at present seated under the branches of a large + peach tree that marks the spot where two sentinels of our army, + while on duty last night, were shot by the rebels. I was one of the + same guard, having been assigned to such duty for the first time + since entering the service. Like all other sentinels, I was obliged + to walk my lonely beat with drawn sabre. + + It may interest you to know where I performed my first guard duty. + It was in front of the residence of a rabid secessionist, who is + now an officer in the famous Black-Horse Cavalry. You may remember + that this regiment was reported to have been utterly destroyed at + Bull Run, and yet I am informed by Washingtonians that it had but + two companies in the fight. So much for newspaper gossip. + + During the day I was very kindly treated by the family of this + gentleman, but in the evening our camp commander came to me and + said: "Take this revolver, and if you value your life, be vigilant. + _Remember, you are not at Scarsdale now!_" He, of course, referred + to our old camp near Scarsdale, twenty-four miles from New York. + Our present one is a little over half a mile from the Capitol, and + from my tent I can see the dome of that building, glittering, like + a ball of gold, in the sunlight. + + Yesterday I paid a visit to the city. The streets were crowded with + infantry, artillery and cavalry soldiers, all actively engaged in + preparing for the coming conflict. An engagement seems to be close + at hand. Entrenchments are being dug and batteries erected in every + direction. The citizens do not apprehend any danger from an attack + by the enemy. + + My regiment has been attached to Brigadier-General Baker's + Brigade. It will be three weeks to-morrow since I enlisted. I have + been in this camp one week, and one week was spent at Camp Howe, + Scarsdale, New York. + + We are being rapidly prepared for field service. Our drill is very + rigid, yet I submit to the discipline willingly, and I find that + hard study is as essential to the composition of a good soldier as + to a good teacher. I have purchased a copy of the "Cavalry + Tactics," and devote every leisure hour to its mastery. There is + but one thing which gives me any serious annoyance now, and that is + the question of the ways and means for the education of my brothers + and sisters. I think Elvira and Marjorie had better teach this + winter, and then, if the war should be concluded before next + spring, I will make arrangements for their attendance at school + again. With kindest love to all, I am + + Your loving and dutiful son, + + Willard. + + +About two months more were occupied by the Harris Light in camp-duty, +scouting and foraging, but almost immediately after their arrival in +Virginia, young Glazier was promoted to the rank of Corporal. Shortly +after his promotion he was detailed for recruiting service and sent to +the city of New York for that purpose. The great city was in a turmoil +of excitement. + +The "Tammany" organization carried things with a high hand, and was +opposed by the equally powerful Union League. Between these two centres +the current of public opinion ran in strong tides. But, in the midst of +it all, the young corporal was successful in his recruiting service, and +on the second day of December rejoined his comrades, who were then at +Camp Palmer, Arlington Heights. + +This spot was one of peculiar beauty. Its associations were hallowed. +There stood the ancestral home of the Lees, whose deserted rooms seemed +haunted with memories of a noble race. Its floors had echoed to the +tread of youth and beauty. Its walls had witnessed gatherings of renown. +From its portals rode General Lee to take command of the Richmond +troops--a man who must be revered for his qualities of heart and +remembered especially by the North as one who, amid all the fury of +passion which the war engendered, was never betrayed into an intemperate +expression towards the enemy. _Now_, the halls and porches of the quaint +old building rang with the tread of armed men. Its rooms were despoiled, +and that atmosphere of desolation which ever clings about a deserted +home, enveloped the place. A winding roadway under thick foliaged trees, +led down the Heights to the "Long Bridge," crossing the Potomac. Near +the house stood an old-fashioned "well sweep" which carried a +moss-covered bucket on its trips down the well, to bring up the most +sparkling of water. Instinctively a feeling of sadness took possession +of the heart at the mournful contrast between the past and present of +this beautiful spot. + + "Ah, crueler than fire or flood + Come steps of men of alien blood, + And silently the treacherous air + Closes--and keeps no token, where + Its dead are buried." + +The day of trial--the baptism of battle--seemed rapidly approaching. +General McClellan, having drilled and manoeuvred and viewed and reviewed +the Army of the Potomac, until what had been little better than an armed +and uniformed mob began to assume the aspect of a body of regulars, +determined upon an advance movement. Accordingly on the third of March, +1862, the army marched upon Centreville, captured the "Quaker" guns +and, much to the disgust of his followers, fell back upon his original +position, instead of continuing the advance. + +As the Harris Light enjoyed throughout this campaign of magnificent +possibilities, the honor of being "Little Mac's" body guard, they were +of course during the forward movement in high spirits. They believed it +to be the initial step to a vigorous campaign in which they might hold +the post of honor. But when the order to fall back came, their +disappointment was great indeed. At first they were mystified, but it +soon leaked out that a council of war had been held and that McClellan's +plan of the Peninsular Campaign had been adopted. + +It had also been determined that a section of the army should be left +behind, under the command of General Irvin McDowell, to guard the +approaches to Washington. + +The First Pennsylvania Cavalry, under the command of General (then +Colonel) George Dashiel Bayard, and the Harris Light, remained with the +latter force. Under such a leader as Bayard, the men could have no fear +of rusting in inactivity. He was the soul of honor, the bravest of the +brave. No more gallant spirit ever took up the sword, no kinder heart +ever tempered valor, no life was more stainless, no death could be more +sad; for the day that was appointed for his nuptials closed over his +grave. + +Judson Kilpatrick, one of those restless, nervous, energetic and +self-reliant spirits who believe in themselves thoroughly, and make up +in activity what they lack in method, was Colonel of the Harris Light, +and the dawning glory of young Bayard's fame excited a spirit of +emulation, if not of envy in his heart, which found vent in a very +creditable desire to equal or excel that leader in the field. The +brilliant night attack on Falmouth Heights was one of the first results +of this rivalry, and as it was also the initial battle in Corporal +Glazier's experience, we give his own vivid description of it as it is +found in "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry." + +"Our instructions," he says, "were conveyed to us in a whisper. A +beautiful moonlight fell upon the scene, which was as still as death; +and with proud determination the two young cavalry chieftains moved +forward to the night's fray. Bayard was to attack on the main road in +front, but not until Kilpatrick had commenced operations on their right +flank, by a detour through a narrow and neglected wood-path. As the +Heights were considered well-nigh impregnable, it was necessary to +resort to some stratagem, for which Kilpatrick showed a becoming +aptness. + +"Having approached to within hearing distance of the rebel pickets, but +before we were challenged, Kilpatrick shouted with his clear voice, +which sounded like a trumpet on the still night air: + +"'Bring up your artillery in the centre, and infantry on the left!' + +"'Well, but, Colonel,' said an honest though rather obtuse Captain, 'we +haven't got any inf--' + +"'Silence in the ranks!' commanded the leader. 'Artillery in the centre, +infantry on the left!' + +"The pickets caught and spread the alarm and thus greatly facilitated +our hazardous enterprise. + +"'Charge!' was the order which then thrilled the ranks, and echoed +through the dark, dismal woods; and the column swept up the rugged +heights in the midst of blazing cannon and rattling musketry. + +[Illustration: Night Attack On Falmouth Heights.] + +"So steep was the ascent that not a few saddles slipped off the horses, +precipitating their riders into a creek which flowed lazily at the base +of a hill; while others fell dead and dying, struck by the missiles of +destruction which filled the air. But the field was won, and the enemy, +driven at the point of the sabre, fled unceremoniously down the heights, +through Falmouth and over the bridge which spanned the Rappahannock, +burning that beautiful structure behind them, to prevent pursuit." + +This engagement, while otherwise of but little importance, was valuable +because it taught the enemy that the Federals could use the cavalry arm +of the service as effectively as their infantry. + +All accounts agree that Corporal Glazier acquitted himself very +creditably in his first battle. After the action was over he accompanied +his comrades to the field and contributed his best aid towards the care +of the wounded and the unburied dead. Such an experience was full of +painful contrast to the quiet scenes of home and school life to which he +had hitherto been accustomed. In his history, as with thousands of other +brave boys who missed death through many battles, this period was the +sharp prelude to a long experience of successive conflicts, of weary +marches seasoned with hunger, of prison starvation and the many +privations which fall to the lot of the soldier, all glorified when +given freely in the defence of liberty and country. + + + + +CHAPTER XII. + + +FIRST BATTLE OF BRANDY STATION. + + + The sentinel's lonely round.--General Pope in command of the + army.--Is gunboat service effective?--First cavalry battle of + Brandy Station.--Under a rain of bullets.--Flipper's + orchard.--"Bring up the brigade, boys!"--Capture of Confederate + prisoners.--Story of a revolver.--Cedar Mountain.--Burial of the + dead rebel.--Retreat from the Rapidan.--The riderless + horse.--Death of Captain Walters. + +The Harris Light now entered upon exciting times, and Corporal Glazier, +ever at the post of duty, had little leisure for anything unconnected +with the exigencies of camp and field. At that period the men of both +armies were guilty of the barbarous practice of shooting solitary +sentinels at their posts, and no man went on guard at night without +feeling that an inglorious death might await him in the darkness, while +deprived of the power to strike a defensive blow, or to breathe a +prayer. + +On the twenty-second of July, 1862, a new commander was assigned the +Army of Virginia in the person of General John Pope. General McClellan +had lost the confidence of the Northern people by his continued +disasters, and was at length succeeded by General Pope, who was placed +at the head of the united commands of Fremont, Banks, McDowell (and +later in August), Burnside and Fitz-John Porter. General Pope commenced +his duties with a ringing address to the army under his command. Among +other things, he declared: "That he had heard much of 'lines of +communication and retreat,' but the only _line_ in his opinion, that a +general should know anything about, _was the line of the enemy's +retreat_." The _dash_ of such a theory of war was extremely +invigorating, and once more the hearts of the Northern people cherished +and exulted in the hope that they had found the "right man for the right +place." Popular enthusiasm reacted upon the army; their idol of +yesterday was dethroned, and they girded their loins for a renewal of +the struggle, in the full belief that, with Pope to lead them, they +would write a very different chapter upon the page of History, from that +which recorded their Peninsular campaign. + +Here we desire to correct a statement, then current, regarding the value +of the gunboat service, viz., that McClellan's army was indebted for its +safety during the retreat from Malvern Hill to the gunboats stationed in +James River. That this was not the case is proven by the testimony of L. +L. Dabney, chief-of-staff to General T. J. Jackson. He says: "It is a +fact worthy of note, that the fire of the gunboats, so much valued by +the Federals, and, at one time, so much dreaded by the Confederates, had +no actual influence whatever in the battle. The noise and fury doubtless +produced a certain effect upon the emotions of the assailants, but this +was dependent upon their novelty. The loss effected by them was trivial +when compared with the ravages of the field artillery; and it was found +chiefly among their own friends. Far more of their ponderous missiles +fell within their own lines than within those of the Confederates. +Indeed, a fire directed at an invisible foe across two or three miles +of intervening hills and woods can never reach its aim, save by +accident. Nor is the havoc wrought by the larger projectiles in +proportion to their magnitude. Where one of them explodes against a +human body it does, indeed, crush it into a frightful mass, but it is +not likely to strike more men, in the open order of field operations, +than a shot of less weight; and the wretch blown to atoms by it is not +put _hors du combat_ more effectually than he whose brain is penetrated +by half an ounce of lead or iron. The broadside of a modern gunboat may +consist of three hundred pounds of iron projected by forty pounds of +powder, but it is fired from only _two_ guns. The effect upon a line of +men, therefore, is but one-fifteenth of that which the same metal might +have had, fired from ten-pounder rifled guns." + +The truth of the matter is, that so far as offensive operations in +conjunction with that army were concerned, the gunboats were more +ornamental than useful; and it is not just that the modicum of glory +(mingled with so much of disaster), won fairly upon that occasion by the +land forces, should be awarded to another branch of the service. + +General Pope was not permitted to remain long before an opportunity +offered for practically testing his war theories. McClellan's troops had +scarcely recovered breath after their retreat from before Richmond when +Lee, leaving his entrenchments, boldly threw himself forward and met +Pope and the Union forces, face to face on the old battle-ground of +Manassas. The Harris Light, prior to the second battle of Bull Run, had +been offered, and eagerly accepted, an opportunity to cross swords +with the "Southern chivalry," and the result now was a desperate +encounter at Brandy Station. The first action which baptized in blood +this historic ground took place August twentieth, 1862. About six +o'clock in the morning a heavy column of Stuart's cavalry was discovered +approaching from the direction of Culpepper, and Kilpatrick received +orders to check their advance. The Harris Light, acting as rear guard of +Bayard's brigade, kept the enemy in check until Bayard could form his +command at a more favorable point two miles north of the station. +Corporal Glazier was in the front rank of the first squadron that led +the charge, and repulsed the enemy. His horse was wounded in the neck, +and his saddle and canteen perforated with bullets. + +[Illustration: Federal Canteens For Confederate Tobacco] + +The fight at Flipper's Orchard preceded that at Brandy Station by more +than a month, having occurred on the Fourth of July. The Troy company of +the Harris Light had been ordered, about eight o'clock in the morning of +that day, to reconnoitre the Telegraph Road, south of Fredericksburg. +Leaving camp, they soon came in sight of a detachment of Bath cavalry on +patrol duty, escorting the Richmond mail. They learned the strength of +the enemy from some colored people along the route, and also the +probability that they would halt at Flipper's Orchard for refreshments. +This place was on the south bank of the Po River, some twenty miles from +Fredericksburg, in an angle formed by the roads leading to Bull Church +and the Rappahannock. After following them for several hours, the +company halted for consultation, "and," says Glazier, "our lieutenant +put the question to vote, whether we should go on and capture the foe, +about one hundred strong, or return to camp. The vote was unanimous for +battle. I was in charge of the advance guard, having a squad of four +men, and received orders to strike a gallop. Just as we came within +sight of the Orchard, we saw the Confederates dismounting and making +leisurely arrangements for their repast. Dashing spurs into our horses' +flanks, we wheeled round the corner and along the Bull Church Road, +sweeping down upon them with tremendous clatter. 'Here they are, boys!' +I shouted; 'bring up the brigade!' We were about forty in number, but +surprised them completely, and they fled panic-stricken. Twelve men and +nine horses were captured. On reaching Dr. Flipper's house, I noticed a +dismounted Confederate officer who, with others, was running across a +wheat-field. I started in hot pursuit, jumping my horse over a six-rail +fence to reach him. He fired upon me with both carbine and revolver, but +missed his mark, and by this time I stood over him with my +navy-revolver, demanding his surrender. He gave up his arms and +equipments, which were speedily transferred to my own person. We made +quick work of the fight, the whole affair lasting not longer than +fifteen minutes. The Confederate reserves were only a short distance off +at Bull Church, and we hurried back with our spoils towards the +Rappahannock, fearful that we might be overtaken. My prisoner, as I +afterward learned, was Lieutenant Powell, in command of the patrol. His +revolver has a story of its own. It was a beautiful silver-mounted +weapon, and I resolved to keep possession of it as my especial trophy, +instead of turning it over to the Quartermaster's Department. This was +not an easy matter, as vigilant eyes were on the look-out for all +'munitions of war captured from the enemy,' which were consigned to a +common receptacle. I therefore dug a hole in the ground of our tent and +buried my treasure, where it remained until we changed our encampment. +One day, some time after, I carelessly left it lying on a log, a short +distance from camp, and on returning found it gone. While I stood there +deploring my ill luck, I heard a succession of clear, snapping shots +just beyond a rise of ground directly in front of me, and recognized the +familiar report of my revolver. Going in the direction of the shots, I +rescued it from the hands of a sergeant by whom it had been temporarily +confiscated. After this adventure I concluded to incur no further risks +with the weapon, and so packed it in a cigar-box and sent it to my +sister Elvira." + +The battle of Cedar Mountain, fought on the afternoon of August ninth, +1862, needs only a passing notice in connection with this record. The +battalion in which Corporal Glazier served acted as body-guard to +General McDowell, and arrived on the field just as the wave of battle +was receding. The following morning, on passing over the slopes of Cedar +Mountain, where the guns of General Banks had made sad havoc on the +previous day, a dead Confederate soldier, partially unburied, attracted +the attention of the troopers. At that period of the war a sentiment of +extreme bitterness toward the adversary pervaded the ranks on both +sides, and as the squadron swept by the men showered on the poor dead +body remarks expressive of their contempt. Corporal Glazier was an +exception. Moved by an impulse born of our common humanity, he returned +and buried the cold, stark corpse, covering it with mother Earth; and +when questioned why he gave such consideration to a miserable dead +rebel, replied, that he thought any man brave enough to die for a +principle, should be respected for that bravery, whether his cause were +right or wrong. + +On the eighteenth of the month our cavalry relieved the infantry on the +line of the Rapidan, and on the nineteenth, in a sharp skirmish between +Stuart's and Bayard's forces, Captain Charles Walters, of the Harris +Light Cavalry, was killed. This officer was very popular in the +regiment, and his death cast a gloom over all. Wrapped in a soldier's +blanket his body was consigned to a soldier's grave at the solemn hour +of midnight. And while the sad obsequies were being performed, orders +came for the retreat to Culpepper. + + "We buried him darkly at dead of night, + The sod with our bayonets turning, + By the struggling moonbeam's misty light, + And our lanterns dimly burning. + + * * * * * + + "Slowly and sadly we laid him down, + On the field of his fame fresh and gory; + We carved not a line, we raised not a stone, + But left him alone with his glory." + +[Illustration: Burial Of Captain Walters At Midnight, +During Pope's Retreat.] + + + + +CHAPTER XIII. + + +MANASSAS AND FREDERICKSBURG. + + + Manassas.--The flying troops.--The unknown hero.--Desperate attempt + to stop the retreat.--Recruiting the decimated + ranks.--Fredericksburg.--Bravery of Meagher's brigade.--The + impregnable heights.--The cost of battles.--Death of + Bayard.--Outline of his life. + +The plains of Manassas still speak to us. The smoke of battle that once +hung over them has long since rolled away, but the blood of over forty +thousand brave men of both North and South who here met, and fighting +fell to rise no more, consecrates the soil. Between them and us the +grass has grown green for many and many a summer, but it cannot hide the +memory of their glorious deeds. From this altar of sacrifice the incense +yet sweeps heavenward. The waters of Bull Run Creek swirl against their +banks as of old, and, to the heedless passer-by, utter nothing of the +despairing time when red carnage held awful sway, and counted its +victims by the thousand; yet, if one strays thitherward who can listen +to the mystic language of the waves, they will reword their burden of +death and of dark disaster which "followed fast and followed faster," +and at last overtook the devoted Northern army, and made wild confusion +and wilder flight. + +No general description of the battle need be given here. That portion +only which concerns the subject of this biography, now promoted to the +rank of Sergeant, will be set in the framework of these pages. +Concerning the part which he took in the action, and which occurred +under his own observation, he says: + +"On the eventful thirtieth--it was August, 1862--our artillery occupied +the crest of a hill a short distance beyond Bull Run Creek, the cavalry +regiments under Bayard being stationed next, and the infantry drawn up +in line behind the cavalry. + +"A short time before the battle opened, I was sent to a distant part of +the field to deliver an order. An ominous stillness pervaded the ranks. +The pickets as I passed them were silent, with faces firmly set towards +the front, and the shadow of coming battle hovered portentously, like a +cloud with veiled lightnings, over the Union lines. + +"It was the calm which precedes a storm, and the thunderbolts of war +fell fast and heavy when the storm at length broke over our heads. I had +just taken my place in the cavalry ranks when a shell from the enemy's +guns whizzed over our heads with a long and spiteful shriek. One of the +horses attached to a caisson was in the path of the fiery missile, and +the next instant the animal's head was severed entirely from his neck. +The deathly silence was now broken, and more shot and shell followed in +quick succession, plowing through the startled air and falling with +destructive force among the Union troops. This iron hail from the guns +of the enemy was composed in part of old pieces of chain and broken iron +rails, as well as the shot and shell ordinarily used. Our artillery soon +replied, but from some unexplained cause the Union troops in this +portion of our line broke and fled in panic before a shot had been fired +from the muskets of the enemy. This battle, like the first Bull Run, +had been well planned, and every effort which good generalship and good +judgment could dictate in order to insure success, had been made by +Generals Pope and McDowell. + +"At this crisis of affairs, the cavalry under Bayard and Kilpatrick were +ordered to the rear, to stem, if possible, the tide of retreat, but the +effort was well nigh fruitless. Regiment after regiment surged by in one +continuous and almost resistless wave. A cheer was heard to go up from +the Confederate ranks as Stuart's cavalry charged us, and though we +returned the charge it did not stop the panic which had taken possession +of our troops. + +"One of its causes was undoubtedly the supposition that the enemy was +executing a flank movement on our left. In forty-five minutes from the +beginning of the battle, this part of the army was in full retreat; but +the determined stand made by Heintzelman, and also one or two heroic +attempts to stop the backward-surging wave, saved our forces from utter +rout and possible capture. + +"As soon as the Union batteries were taken by the enemy, they were +turned upon us, in addition to their own guns, and afterwards, on came +Stuart in a head-long charge with one of those hideous yells peculiar to +the Southern 'chivalry.' With thousands of others who were rapidly +retiring, I had recrossed Bull Run Creek when my attention was arrested +by a mounted officer who sprang out from the mass of flying men, and +waving his sword above his head, called on every one, irrespective of +regiment, to rally around him and face the foe. He wore no golden +leaf--no silver star. He was appealing to officers higher in command +than himself, who, mixed with the crowd, were hurrying by. His manner, +tense with excitement, was strung up to the pitch of heroism, and his +presence was like an inspiration, as he stood outside the mass, a mark +for the bullets of the enemy. + +"I halted, filled with admiration for so noble an example of valor, and +then rode rapidly towards him. Seeing me, he galloped forward to meet me +and asked my aid in making a stand against the enemy. + +"'Sergeant,' said he, 'you are just in time. As you are mounted, you can +be of great service in rallying these men for a stand on this ground.' + +"'Lieutenant,' I replied, 'they will not listen to the wearer of these +chevrons.' + +"'Tear off your chevrons,' said this unknown hero,--'the infantry will +not know you from a field officer--and get as many men to turn their +muskets to the front as you can.' + +"Lieutenant,' I responded, 'I will do all I can to help you,' and the +insignia of non-commissioned rank was immediately stripped from my +sleeves. + +"I put myself under his command and fought with him until he gave the +order to retire. While he was talking with me he was at the same time +calling on the men to make a stand, telling them they could easily hold +the position. He seemed to take in the situation at a glance. + +"The enemy having advanced to the first crest of hills, were throwing +their infantry forward with full force, and with the three thousand or +more of men who rallied around this heroic officer, a stand was made on +the rising ground north of Bull Run from which the advance of the enemy +was opposed. We held this position for half an hour, which gave +considerable time for reorganization. + +"While riding along the line, helping my unknown superior as best I +could, my horse was shot--the first experience of this kind which had +befallen me. + +"Just as the disaster was occurring which culminated in retreat, General +McDowell, on his white horse, galloped up to the guns behind which +Heintzelman was blazing destruction on the Confederates. Alighting from +his horse he sighted the guns and gave a personal superintendence to +this part of the action. An artillery captain, standing by his battery +while his horses were shot down, his pieces in part disabled, and the +infantry deserting him, shed tears in consequence. + +"'You need not feel badly over this affair,' said the general, 'General +McDowell is responsible for this misfortune. Stand by your guns as long +as you can. If the general is blamed, _your_ bravery will be praised.' + +"Was there a touch of irony in this remark which met in advance the +grumblings and questionings of the future? Was it the sarcasm of a man +who, having done his utmost, could not yet prevent disaster, and who +knew that an unthinking public sometimes measured loyalty by success? + +"Later in the day our regiment--the 'Harris Light Cavalry'--lost a +squadron. Most of them were killed. + +"In the deepening twilight we charged the enemy just as they were +forming for a similar attack on us. They were compelled to halt, and +Pope was thus enabled to discover their position and arrange for the +next day's defence. + +"On the night of the thirtieth, the enemy occupied the battle-field and +buried the dead of both armies. And thus it was that Bull Run again ran +red with patriot blood and witnessed the retreat of the Union +battalions. + +"By what strange fatality General Pope was allowed to struggle on alone +against an army twice the size of the Federal force, has not been +satisfactorily explained. One is almost tempted to believe, with +astrologists, that baleful stars sometimes preside with malign influence +over the destinies of battles, as they are said to do over individuals +and nations." + +After the battle of Manassas, the Harris Light Cavalry was so reduced in +numbers that it was ordered into camp at Hall's Hill, near Washington, +with a view of recruiting its wasted strength and equipment. They +remained at that point until November, when they were again moved +forward to form the principal picket line along the front, prior to the +Federal disaster at Fredericksburg. + +Burnside, having strongly secured the mountain passes in the +neighborhood, in order to conceal from Lee his real object, made a +_feint_ in the direction of Gordonsville; but the keen eye of the +Confederate generalissimo penetrated his true design and took measures +to defeat its accomplishment. Upon the eighth of this month, a lively +encounter between the Harris Light and a detachment of Confederate +cavalry resulted in the defeat of the latter, and soon after, the +regiment joined the main army. + +As all know, the battle of Fredericksburg was fought and lost during the +three days intervening between the thirteenth and sixteenth of December. +Burnside's gallant army, in the midst of darkness, rain and tempestuous +wind, came reeling back from a conflict of terrible ferocity and +fatality. Six times in one day Meagher's gallant Irishmen were literally +hurled against Marye's Heights, a point of almost impregnable strength, +and which, even if carried, would still have exposed them to the +commanding fire of other and stronger Confederate positions. + +Twenty times had charge and counter-charge swept the tide of battle to +and fro--at what terrible cost, the killed and wounded, strewing the +ground like leaves in the forest, made answer. Twelve thousand men lay +dead on the field when the battle ended, and one thousand prisoners were +taken, besides nine thousand stand of arms. + +Although this battle seems to have been well planned by General +Burnside, a want of capacity to meet unforeseen emergencies doubtless +contributed to his defeat. He committed a fatal error at a critical +moment, by sending General Franklin an equivocal _recommendation_, +instead of an _order_ to attack the enemy in force. The enemy, however, +though having nobly held their ground, could not boast of having +advanced their lines by so much as a foot. There were, indeed, but few +even of the Confederate officers, who knew they had been victorious, and +the amazement of their army was beyond description when the gray dawn of +the fourteenth of December revealed the deserted camps of the Federals, +who had withdrawn their entire command during the night to the north +side of the river. + +Had General Franklin brought his men into action, as he should have +done, at the critical moment when the issue of the fight was trembling +in the balance, the fortunes of this day would have terminated +differently. Had the splendid divisions of brave Phil. Kearney or +"Fighting Joe Hooker" been ordered into the arena, and lent the +inspiration of their presence to this hour of need, the scales of +victory would have turned in an opposite direction. + +The "might have beens" always grow thickly on the soil of defeat. + +Among the lamented dead of this day's havoc, no loss was more keenly +felt than that of Major-General George Dashiel Bayard. He was standing +among a group of officers around the trunk of an old tree, near the +headquarters of Generals Franklin and Smith, when the enemy suddenly +began to shell a battery near by, and one of the deadly missiles struck +this gallant leader. He was carried to the field-hospital, mortally +wounded. + +Quietly turning to the surgeon who examined his ghastly wounds, he asked +"if there was any hope." On being informed that there was none, he +proceeded with undisturbed composure, and without a murmur of pain, to +dictate three letters. One of these was to his affianced bride. This +day, it was said, had been appointed for his wedding. The time-hands +marked the hour of eight when this letter was finished, and, as he +uttered its closing words, his spirit fled from the shattered body and +left it only cold and tenantless clay. He was but twenty-eight years of +age, of prepossessing appearance and manners, with as brave a soul as +ever defended the flag of the Union, and a capacity for military +usefulness equal to any man in the service. Gradually he had arisen +from one position of honor and responsibility to another, proving +himself tried and true in each promotion, while his cavalry comrades +especially were watching the developments of his growing power with +unabating enthusiasm. + +Briefly, the outlines of his history are as follows: + +He was born December eighteenth, 1835, at Seneca Falls, New York, from +whence, in 1842, he removed with his parents to Fairfield, Iowa. From +this place he went to the Dorris Military Institute at St. Louis, +Missouri, where he remained eighteen months. + +The family then removed to the East, and settled at Morristown, New +Jersey. From Morristown, he entered West Point Academy. When twenty +years of age, he graduated with the highest honors, and, strange to say, +it was through the offices of Jefferson Davis, then Secretary of War, +that he was at once assigned to a cavalry regiment as second lieutenant. +His subsequent career, so full of brilliance and the true spirit of +heroism, is better known to the country. + +Watered by the dews of hallowed remembrance, his fame, as a sweet +flower, still exhales its fragrance, and finds rich soil in the hearts +of the people. + + "How sleep the brave who sink to rest, + By all their country's wishes blest? + When Spring, with dewy fingers cold, + Returns to deck their hallowed mould, + She there shall dress a sweeter sod + Than Fancy's feet have ever trod. + + * * * * * + + "By fairy hands their knell is rung, + By forms unseen their dirge is sung, + There Honor comes, a pilgrim gray, + To bless the turf that wraps their clay. + And Freedom shall awhile repair, + To dwell a weeping hermit there." + + + + +CHAPTER XIV. + + +UNWRITTEN HISTORY. + + + "What boots a weapon in a withered hand?"--A thunderbolt + wasted.--War upon hen-roosts.--A bit of unpublished history.--A + fierce fight with Hampton's cavalry.--"In one red burial + blent."--From camp to home.--Troubles never come singly.--The + combat.--The capture.--A superfluity of Confederate + politeness.--Lights and shadows. + +While the events we have narrated were occurring, the "Harris Light" was +not idle. Under the command of their favorite Kilpatrick, they made a +dashing raid, and completely encircled the rebels under Lee, penetrating +to within seven miles of Richmond. Such duties as were assigned them +were effectively performed, and yet, General Hooker's object in +detaching his cavalry from the main army remained unaccomplished, either +by reason of General Stoneman's want of comprehension, or want of +energy. This general, instead of hurling his thirteen thousand troopers +like a thunderbolt upon the body of the Confederates, divided and +frittered away the strength under his command by detaching and +scattering it into mere scouting parties, to "raid on smoke-houses and +capture hen-roosts." General Hooker was very naturally exasperated by +this conduct. The detachment from the main army of such a splendid body +of horse, was a measure he had taken after mature deliberation, and with +the view of cutting off Lee's communications with Richmond; thus +precluding the possibility of his being reinforced during the grand +attack which Hooker contemplated upon that leader at Chancelorsville. + +The Federal general attributed the loss of that battle in a great degree +to Stoneman's failure to carry out the spirit of his orders. In a letter +to the author, long after that field of carnage had bloomed and +blossomed with the flowers and fruits of Peace, when the heart-burning +and fever engendered by the contest had subsided, and it was possible to +obtain access to men's judgments, General Hooker wrote: "Soon after +Stonewall Jackson started to turn my right (a project of which I was +informed by a prisoner), I despatched a courier to my right corps +commander informing him of the intended movement, and instructing him to +put himself in readiness to receive the attack. This dispatch was dated +at nine o'clock A. M., and yet, when 'Stonewall' did attack, the men of +this corps had their arms stacked some distance from them, and were +busily engaged in cooking their supper. When the attack came these men +ran like a flock of sheep. _This_, in a wooded country, where a _corps_ +ought to be able to check the advance of a large army. To make this more +clear, I must tell you that the corps commander, General Howard, +received the dispatch while on his bed, and, after reading it, put it in +his pocket, where it remained until after the battle of Gettysburg, +without communicating its contents to his division commander, or to any +one!!! My opinion is that not a gun of ours was fired upon Stonewall +Jackson's force until he had passed nearly into the centre of my army. +Judge, if you can, of the consternation throughout that army caused by +this exhibition of negligence and cowardice. One word more, in regard to +the cavalry. I had to have, under the seniority rule of the service, a +wooden man for its commander. If you will turn to the first volume of +the Report of the Committee on the Conduct of the War, you will find my +instructions to General Stoneman, and then you will see the mistake that +I made in informing him of the strength and position of the enemy he +would be likely to encounter on his raid, as that officer only made use +of the information to avoid the foe. He traveled at night, made +extensive detours, and did not interrupt the traffic on the railroads +between Lee's army and Richmond for a single day. As he was charged to +make this duty his especial object of accomplishment over all others, he +had twelve thousand sabres, double the force the enemy could collect +from all quarters. I had men enough with me to have won Chancelorsville +without the cavalry and other corps, but of what use could a field of +battle have been to me when the enemy could fall back a few miles and +post himself on a field possessing still greater advantages to him? +General Grant did this, and is entitled to all the merit of his +soldiership from a grateful country. I believe if he had sacrificed +every officer and soldier of his command in the attainment of this +object, the country would have applauded him. When I crossed the +Rappahannock I aimed to capture General Lee's whole army and thus end +the war, by manoeuvring, and not by butchery." + +While his superior in command did little that was practically useful +with the cavalry, Kilpatrick covered his little band with glory, and +gave the people of Richmond, a scare as great as Stuart administered to +our Quaker friends in Pennsylvania during his famous foray into the +border counties of the Keystone State. + +Their return was almost immediately followed by the second grand cavalry +battle of Brandy Station, June ninth, 1863, a struggle as hotly +contested as any that occurred during the war. In this encounter +Sergeant Willard Glazier took part, leading the first platoon of the +first battalion that crossed the Rappahannock. Matters were now assuming +a warlike aspect. The Valley of the Shenandoah groaned beneath the tramp +of the main army of the Confederacy, under Lee. The Federal general, +Pleasanton, and the Confederate general, Stuart, were in fierce conflict +among the Blue Ridge mountains. + +[Illustration: Sergeant Glazier At Aldie. "Come On Boys! One +Charge, And The Day Is Ours."] + +At Aldie, on the seventeenth of June, 1863, the "Harris Light" led the +division under Kilpatrick, Glazier's squadron again being the advance +guard--his place at the head of the long column which wound down the +road. As they came upon Aldie, the enemy's advance, under W. H. F. Lee, +was unexpectedly encountered. But Kilpatrick was equal to the occasion. +Dashing to the front, his voice rang out, "Form platoons! trot! march!" +Down through the streets they charged, and along the Middleburg Road, +leading over the low hill beyond. This position was gained so quickly +and gallantly that Fitzhugh Lee, taken by surprise, made no opposition +to the brilliant advance, though immediately afterward he fought for two +hours to regain the lost position, while the guns of his batteries +blazed destruction upon the Federal cavalry. The latter, however, +handsomely repelled the attack. + +On the crest of the hill there was a field of haystacks, inclosed in a +barricade of rails. Behind these the enemy occupied a strong position, +and their sharp-shooters had annoyed Kilpatrick's lines to such an +extent as to prevent their advance on the left. It was well known to +the officers of the "Harris Light" that their regiment had not met +Kilpatrick's expectations on the field of Brandy Station, and on the +morning of this battle they had asked their general for "an opportunity +to retrieve their reputation." This chance came soon enough. Kilpatrick, +ordering forward a battalion of the "Harris Light," and giving the men a +few words of encouragement, turned to Major McIrvin and pointing to the +field of haystacks, said: "Major, there is the opportunity you ask for! +Go take that position!" Away dashed the "Harris Light," and in a moment +the enemy was reached and the struggle began. The horses could not leap +the barricade, the men dismounted, scaled the barriers, and with drawn +sabres rushed furiously upon the hidden foe, who quickly called for +quarter. Aldie was by far the most bloody cavalry battle of the war. The +rebel "chivalry" was beaten; Kilpatrick from this moment took a proud +stand among the most famous of the Union cavalry generals, and the fame +of the regiment was greatly enhanced. To quote our young soldier in +"Battles for the Union:" "Many a brave soul suffered death's sad eclipse +at Aldie, and many escaped the storm of bullets when to escape was +miraculous. In looking back upon that desperate day, I have often +wondered by what strange fatality I passed through its rain of fire +unhurt; but the field which brought a harvest of death to so many others +marked an era in my own humble, military history, which I recall with +pride and pleasure, for from the Battle of Aldie I date my first +commission. The mantle of rank which fell from one whom death had +garnered on that ground dropped upon my shoulders, and I was proud and +grateful to wear it in my country's service. I feel proud also of having +been a participant in the 'Battle of the Haystacks,' where the glorious +squadrons of the 'Harris Light' swept into the mad conflict with the +same invincible bravery that distinguished them on the field of Brandy +Station. Every soldier of the saddle who there fought under Kilpatrick +may justly glory in the laurels won at Aldie." + +In the same month followed the engagements of Middleburg and Upperville, +in each of which the "Harris Light" participated with great eclat, +charging in face of the enemy's guns, forming in platoon under fire, and +routing him in splendid style. At Upperville, Kilpatrick received orders +to charge the town. With drawn sabres and shouts which made the +mountains and plains resound, they rushed upon the foe. The encounter +was terrific. The enemy's horse were driven through the village of +Paris, and finally through Ashby's Gap upon their own infantry columns +in the Shenandoah Valley. At Rector's Cross-Roads, where Kilpatrick +ordered the "Harris Light" to charge the enemy's battery, as they were +forming, a fatal bullet pierced Glazier's horse, and it fell dead under +him. Fortunately he was not dragged down in the fall, and as he struck +the ground a riderless horse belonging to an Indiana company came up. +Its owner, a sergeant, had been shot dead, and, rapidly mounting, +Lieutenant Glazier rode forward with his regiment as they valiantly +charged the enemy's position. + +These actions were succeeded by the battle of Gettysburg (July first, +second and third), in which the disasters of Chancelorsville and +Fredericksburg were fully retrieved, and the rebel army, under Lee, +received a blow so staggering in its effects as to result in a loss of +prestige, and all hope in the ultimate success of their cause. Prior to +this battle the Confederates had warred upon the North aggressively; +thenceforward they were compelled to act upon the defensive. During the +progress of this great and (so far as the ultimate fate of the +Confederacy was concerned) decisive battle, the cavalry, including the +brigade to which our subject was attached, performed brilliant service. +They held Stuart's force effectually at bay, and while the retreat of +the rebel army was in progress their services were in constant +requisition. On the first day of the battle, General John Buford, +commanding the Third Cavalry Division, was in position on the +Chambersburg Pike, about two miles west of the village. Early in the +forenoon the vanguard of the rebel army appeared in front of them, and +our dauntless troopers charged the enemy vigorously, and drove them back +upon their reserves. + +The second day of the battle was spent by the cavalry in hard, bold and +bloody work, in collision with their old antagonists, Stuart, Lee and +Hampton. Charge succeeded charge; the carbine, pistol and sabre were +used by turns; the artillery thundering long after the infantry around +Gettysburg had sunk to rest exhausted with the carnage of the weary day. +Stuart, however, was driven back on his supports, and badly beaten. + +Upon the third day the sun rose bright and warm upon the bleached forms +of the dead strewn over the sanguinary field; upon the wounded, and upon +long, glistening lines of armed men ready to renew the conflict. Each +antagonist, rousing every element of power, seemed resolved upon victory +or death. Finally victory saluted the Union banners, and with great loss +the rebel army sounded the retreat. "Thus," says Glazier in his "Battles +for the Union"--"the Battle of Gettysburg ended--the bloody +turning-point of the rebellion--the bloody baptism of the redeemed +republic. Nearly twenty thousand men from the Union ranks had been +killed and wounded, and a larger number of the rebels, making the +enormous aggregate of at least forty thousand, whose blood was shed to +fertilize the Tree of Liberty." + +During this sanguinary battle; the cavalry were in daily and hourly +conflict with the enemy's well-trained horse under their respective +dashing leaders. The sabre was no "useless ornament," but a deadly +weapon, and "dead cavalrymen" and their dead chargers, were sufficiently +numerous to have drawn forth an exclamation of approval from even so +exacting a commander as "Fighting Joe Hooker." Haggerstown, Boonsboro', +Williamsport and Falling Waters, all attested the great efficiency of +the cavalry arm, and at the end of the month it was an assured, +confident and capable body of dragoons, that, according to Captain +Glazier, "crossed the Rapidan for, as they believed, the purpose of a +continued advance movement against the enemy." + +And here, parenthetically, we may observe, that he, and other recent +writers (Mr. Lossing being an exception), are scarcely accurate in so +designating the river crossed by them as the Rapidan. It was the _chief +tributary of the Rappahannock_, while two sister streams, which together +form the Pamunkey, are known to local topography as the North and South +Rapid Anna rivers. + +It was a pleasant locality, and the "Harris Light" encamped there for +several weeks, having no occupation more exciting or belligerent than +picket duty. Duties of a more stirring character, were, however, +awaiting them, and as these are intimately associated with the career of +the subject of this biography, the delineation of whose life is the +purpose of the writer, we will give them something more than a cursory +notice. + +We will first, however, take the opportunity of introducing a letter +from our young cavalryman to his parents, illustrative in some measure +of his intelligence and soldierly qualities, while it is no less so of +his sense of filial duty: + + + Headquarters Harris Lgt. Cavalry, + Near Hartwood Church, Virginia, + _August 22d, 1863_. + + Dear Father and Mother: + + Another birthday has rolled around, and finds me still in the army. + Two years have passed since we were lying quietly in camp near + Washington. Little did I think at that time that the insurrection, + which was then in process of organization, was of such mighty + magnitude as to be able to continue in its treacherous designs + until now. Newspaper quacks and mercenary correspondents kept facts + from the public, and published falsehoods in their stead. + Experience has at last taught us the true state of things, and we + now feel that the great work of putting down the rebellion is to be + accomplished only by energy, perseverance and unity. Our cause + never looked more favorable than to-day. It is no longer a rumor + that Vicksburg and Port Hudson have fallen, but a stern reality, an + actual and glorious victory to our arms, and a sure exposure of the + waning strength of the ill-fated Confederacy. Charleston and Mobile + must soon follow the example of the West, and then the Army of the + Potomac will strike the final blow in Virginia. + + Kilpatrick's cavalry is now watching the movements of the enemy on + the Rappahannock--his head-quarters being near Hartwood Church. I + have seen nothing that would interest you much, save a few + expeditions among the bushwhackers of Stafford County. + + It may not be uninteresting to you to learn that I have just been + promoted to a lieutenancy, my commission to date from the + seventeenth of June. I have received four successive promotions + since my enlistment. Your son can boast that his Colonel says he + has earned his commission. Political or moneyed influence has had + nothing to do with it. I have been in command of a platoon or + company ever since the thirteenth of last April, and have very + frequently been in charge of a squadron. I conclude by asking you + to remember me kindly to all my friends, + + And believe me, as ever, your dutiful son, + Willard. + + +It will be remembered that the greater part of the spring of this year +(1863), that is, from the time the Federal army moved from its +winter-quarters in Stafford and King George counties, and all the early +summer, were passed by the belligerent forces in efforts to compel their +adversaries to fall back on their respective capitals. The people and +the press on both sides were clamoring for the accomplishment of +_something definite_, and when Vicksburg fell, and on the stricken field +of Gettysburg, victory perched upon the Union banners, our hopes seemed +on the point of realization, but the fall of the leaf found the hostile +armies still confronting each other. Lee's force, though fearfully +shattered, maintained its organization, and to all appearance had lost +little of its former self-confidence. General Meade, perhaps the most +scientific strategist of all the generals who had held the chief command +of the Army of the Potomac, was severely criticised, simply because he +declined by "raw Haste, half-sister to Delay," to hazard the ultimate +fruition of his well-laid plans; and Captain Glazier, it must be +admitted, was one of his adverse critics. We think the censure was +uncalled for. Wellington had but one Waterloo, and although to him was +due the victory, it was the fresh army of Blucher that pursued the +retreating French, and made defeat irretrievable. But whenever Lee, or +McClellan, Jackson, or Meade obtained a hard-earned victory, the people, +on either side, were dissatisfied because their triumph was not followed +up by, at once and forever, annihilating the foe! + + + + +CHAPTER XV. + + +FROM BATTLE-FIELD TO PRISON. + + + A situation to try the stoutest hearts.--Hail Columbia!--Every man + a hero.--Kilpatrick's ingenuity.--A pen-picture from "Soldiers of + the Saddle."--Glazier thanked by his general.--Cessation of + hostilities.--A black day.--Fitzhugh Lee proposes to crush + Kilpatrick.-"Kil's" audacity.--Capture of Lieutenant + Glazier.--Petty tyranny.--"Here, Yank, hand me that thar hat, and + overcoat, and boots." + +At this period of the war, the Cavalry Corps was separated into three +divisions. Buford with his division fell back by the way of Stevensburg, +and Gregg by Sulphur Springs; leaving Kilpatrick with the brigades of +Custer and Davies, which included the "Harris Light," on the main +thoroughfare along the railroad line. "No sooner," says Glazier, "had +Kilpatrick moved out of Culpepper, than Hampton's cavalry division made +a furious attack upon the 'Harris Light,' then acting as rear-guard, +with the evident design of breaking through upon the main column to +disperse, or delay it, so as to enable a flanking force to intercept our +retreat. Gallantly repelling this assault, the command, on the eleventh +of October, advanced to Brandy Station, where an accumulation of +formidable difficulties threatened our annihilation." It appears that +Fitzhugh Lee, with the flower of the Confederate cavalry, held +possession of the only road over which it was possible for Kilpatrick to +retire, while Stuart, at the head of another body of cavalry, supported +by artillery well posted along a line of hills, completely covered the +Federal left. His right was exposed to a galling fire from +sharp-shooters hidden behind the forest; "while just behind them was +Hampton's legion threatening speedy destruction to its surrounded foe." +Here was a situation to try the stoutest hearts. Nothing daunted, +however, by this terrific array of an enemy very much his superior in +numbers, Kilpatrick displayed that decision and daring which ever +characterized him. "His preparations for a grand charge," for he had +determined to cut his way out of this _cul-de-sac_, "were soon +completed. Forming his division into three lines of battle, he assigned +the right to General Davies, the left to General Custer; and placing +himself, with General Pleasanton, in the centre, advanced with terrible +determination to the contest. Approaching to within a few yards of the +enemy's lines, he ordered the band to strike up a national air, to whose +stirring strains was added the blast of scores of bugles ringing out the +'charge.' Brave hearts became braver, and weak ones waxed strong, until +'pride of country had touched this raging sea of thought, and emotion +kindled an unconquerable principle that affirmed every man a hero until +death.'" The troops filled the air with their battle-cry, and hurled +themselves on their unequal foe. "So swiftly swept forward this tide of +animated power that the Confederates broke and fled, and Kilpatrick thus +escaped a disaster which had seemed inevitable." + +"No one"--we quote from "Soldiers of the Saddle,"--"who looked upon that +wonderful panorama, can ever forget it. On the great field were +riderless horses and dying men; clouds of dirt from solid shot and +bursting shells, broken caissons, and overturned ambulances; and long +lines of dragoons dashing into the charge, with their drawn and firmly +grasped sabres glistening in the light of the declining sun; while far +beyond the scene of tumult were the dark green forests skirting the +distant Rappahannock." + +[Illustration: Lieutenant Glazier At Brandy Station. "Come +On, Boys! We Must Break That Line."] + +In this action Glazier, who occupied the post of volunteer aide to +General Davies, had his horse shot under him, received a sabre-stroke on +the shoulder, two bullets in his hat, and had his scabbard split by a +shot or shell. His conduct was such as to obtain for him the thanks of +his general and a promise of early promotion. This was the fourth battle +of Brandy Station in which the Harris Light Cavalry had been engaged. +The first occurred on August the twentieth, 1862, the second on June +ninth, the third on September twelfth, and this last action on October +eleventh, 1863. They were followed by a number of spirited engagements +between the Federal cavalry and the cavaliers of the South--the former +under Generals Buford and Kilpatrick, and the latter under Stuart and +Wade Hampton. In all of these both sides behaved gallantly, the result +being the masterly retreat of the Federals across the Rappahannock to +the old battle-ground of Bull Run, where they made a protracted halt. + +From this time until the fifteenth of October, nothing of sufficient +importance transpired to require mention here. Upon that day an +indecisive battle was fought at Bristoe Station, which was followed by +another calm that continued until the nineteenth of October--a black day +in the calendar of Willard Glazier's life. + +Far away among the peaceful hills of his native State there fell upon +his father's house a sorrow such as its inmates had never known before. +Not that this family had escaped the ordinary bereavements of human +life. On the contrary, two little children had been taken from them at +intervals of time which seemed to them cruelly brief. But the death of +an infant, while a sad, is a beautiful thing to witness. There is no +flower that blooms on a baby grave that does not speak to the world-worn +heart, of _Immortality_. The grief, therefore, is gentle in its touch. +But with the ebb of a maturer life the sorrow is of a different +character, and when the physician announced to this worthy couple that +their daughter, Elvira, would die, they were stunned by the blow, and +when the event came "they refused" like Rachel "to be comforted." The +child that is going from us is, for the time, the favorite, and these +afflicted parents could not realize that she who had grown up among +them, the ewe lamb of their flock, could be torn from their loving arms, +and go down, like coarser clay, to the dark grave. She was so good, so +gentle, so loving to her kindred, that their simple hearts could not +understand how God could let her die, in the very bloom and beauty of +her maidenhood. But though crushed, they bowed their heads in +submission. Their hearts were almost broken, but they rebelled not +against the Hand that chastened them. Why is it that such examples of +tender feeling and unquestioning faith are seldom found in cities? Is it +that "the memories which peaceful country scenes call up, are not of +this world; nor of _its_ thoughts and hopes?" That "their gentle +influences teach us how to weave fresh garlands for the graves of those +we love, purify our thoughts, and beat down old enmities and hatreds?" +And that "beneath all this there lingers in the least reflective mind, +a vague and half-formed consciousness of having held such feelings long +before, which calls up solemn thoughts of distant times to come, and +bends down pride and worldliness before it?" The physician had said that +Elvira would not live another day, and the mother sat down to the sad +task of writing the mournful news to her soldier son. Meanwhile beyond +the Rappahannock, a scene was on the eve of being enacted, which was +destined to inflict upon her a pain as poignant as that she was, now +about to bestow. + +The night of October eighteenth was passed by Kilpatrick's command at +Gainesville, but the first faint streak of dawn saw him and his faithful +followers in the saddle, booted, spurred, and equipped for some +enterprise as yet unexplained to them, but evidently, in their leader's +estimation, one of "pith and moment." At the word of command, the force, +including the "Harris Light," moved forward at a quick trot, taking the +road to Warrenton, and anticipating a brush with Stuart's cavalry who, +during the previous ten hours, had thrown out videttes in their +immediate front. + +The surprise of the Federals was great to find their advance unimpeded, +and that, instead of offering opposition, the Confederates fell back as +rapidly as their opponents approached. On they dashed, unopposed and +unobstructed, until Buckland Mills was reached. At this point they found +themselves checked, and in a manner that somewhat astounded them. As +they arrived within a stone's throw of that village, Fitzhugh Lee, with +his magnificent following, struck their flank. That astute and valiant +officer, it appears, had cut his way through the Federal infantry at +Thoroughfare-Gap, and accompanied by a battery of flying artillery, +swept down upon Kilpatrick, designing to crush him at a blow. General +Stuart, taking in the situation, and keenly anxious to profit by the +advantage thus afforded him, instantly turned upon and charged the +Federals in his front, while, as if to make their utter annihilation a +certainty, the rebel General Gordon, with a third body of men (his +proximity at that moment not being suspected), bore down fiercely on +their left, threatening to cut Kilpatrick's division in two. + +Kilpatrick possessed an extraordinary amount of ingenuity in devising +means of escape from a dangerous position. In the present case his plan +was formed in an instant, and executed as soon as formed. He immediately +changed his front, and, without the slightest hesitation, headed a mad +and desperate charge upon Fitzhugh Lee's advancing column. The merit of +the movement lay in its audacity; it was the only one that promised the +remotest chance of escape to the entrapped Federals. Executed with great +rapidity and desperate decision, the movement resulted in the salvation +of the greater portion of his command. It so happened, however, that the +"Harris Light," originally, be it remembered, forming the vanguard of +Kilpatrick's force, was by this manoeuvre thrown round upon the rear, +and Stuart, who was now the pursuer instead of the pursued, had a fine +opportunity of attacking them with his full force, at a great +disadvantage to the former--an opportunity he was not slow to avail +himself of. + +Kilpatrick's men met the assault manfully, retiring slowly, until at +length, upon the brow of a small hill, they turned at bay, and for a +time formed a living rampart between their retreating comrades and the +enemy. Every attempt to approach and penetrate their line proved instant +death to their assailants, and General Stuart, seeing no chance of +otherwise dislodging them, determined to charge in person, and crush +them with an entire division. Glazier, who had already emptied two +saddles, sat coolly upon his horse, reloading as this formidable body +came sweeping down. By this time, experience of the vicissitudes of a +soldier's career, and possibly the fact that he had hitherto been very +fortunate in the numerous conflicts in which his regiment had been +engaged, left him quite composed under fire. Singling out one of +Stuart's men, he covered that cavalier with his revolver, and probably, +in another instant, would have ended his career; but, just as his finger +gave the final pressure upon the trigger, his horse, riddled with +bullets, fell dead under him, the shot flew wide of its mark, and he +fell to the ground. + +[Illustration: Cavalry-fight At New Baltimore--lieutenant Glazier +Taken Prisoner.] + +His first sensation was of a dense cloud between himself and the sky, +and next of being crushed by tramping hoofs, whole squadrons of horse +passing over his body as he lay prone and helpless. A vague, dreamy +sensation of being a mass of wounds and bruises was succeeded by utter +darkness and oblivion. How long he continued in this comatose state he +never knew. Raised from the ground, a terrible sense of acute bodily +pain gradually crept over him, as he found himself hurried along at a +rapid pace. Where he was going, who had him in charge, what he had done, +whether he was in this or some other world, were matters of which he +had no more conception than the dead charger he had ridden. Pain, pain, +nothing but intense pain, absorbed the whole of his faculties. Gradually +his full consciousness returned. He remembered the fierce onset of the +enemy, his fall from his horse, and at once concluded that he was a +prisoner in the hands of the enemy! Very soon after, he discovered that, +in addition to being deprived of his arms, he had been stripped of his +watch and other valuables. + +One of the great annoyances to which a newly captured prisoner was +subjected, arose from the fact that skulkers and sneaks, in order to +secure safe positions, coveted and sought the privilege of quartering +them. In his own words Glazier says: + +"The woods in the vicinity were full of skulkers, and, in order to make +a show of having something to do, they would make their appearance in +the rear of the fighting column, and devote themselves sedulously to +guarding the prisoners." He adds, that "privates, corporals and +sergeants, in turn, had them in charge;" and that "each in succession +would call them into line, count them in an officious manner, and issue +orders according to their liking," until some sneak of higher rank came +along, assumed the superior command, and in a tone of authority, would +say to the other poltroons: "Gentlemen, your services are much needed at +the front. Go, and do your duty like soldiers." The result would be an +exchange of tyrants, but no diminution of the petty tyranny. At dusk the +prisoners were marched to, and lodged in, the jail at Warrenton. + +Like all Federal soldiers who fell into the enemy's hands, Glazier +complains very bitterly of the small persecutions inflicted by the +officers and men of the Home Guard, and unfortunately these mongrels--a +cross between a civilian and a soldier--were their chief custodians +during that night, and signalized themselves after their fashion. They +deprived the prisoners of their clothing, and, in truth, everything of +the slightest value in the eyes of a thief. One of these swashbucklers +attempted to reduce our young hero's wardrobe to an Arkansas basis, +namely, a straw-hat and a pair of spurs, with what success the following +dialogue, taken mainly from "The Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape," will +indicate. + +"Here, Yank," said the guard, "hand me that thar hat, and over-coat, and +boots." + +"No, sir, I won't; they are my property. You have no right to take them +from me." + +"I have," said the guard. "We have authority from General Stuart to take +from you prisoners whatever we d----d choose." + +"That I doubt," said the captive, "and if you are a gentleman you won't +be guilty of stripping a defenceless prisoner." + +"I'll show you my authority, you d----d blue-belly," said the ruffian, +drawing his revolver. "Now, take off that coat, or I'll blow your brains +out." + +By this time Glazier's Northern blood was up, and he grew desperate, so +he angrily answered: + +"Blow away then! It is as well to be without brains as without +clothing." + +So the fellow, who was evidently a contemptible blusterer, whom General +Stuart, had he been aware of his conduct, would have drummed out of the +army, not willing to risk the consequences of actual violence--sneaked +away. + +While this little incident was occurring at Warrenton jail, a very +different event was transpiring at his father's house. His sister was +dying. It was a peaceful, hopeful death--the death of a Christian--of +one who in her young life had never by word or deed injured man or +woman. Many weeks elapsed before her imprisoned brother heard of her +death, and when the intelligence at length reached him, he was +overwhelmed with grief at her loss. + +Upon the morning following the day of his capture, in that dense +darkness that precedes the dawn, the prisoners started on their tramp +toward Culpepper, and as the day broke, and the sun mounted above the +eastern hills, their march, which extended to full thirty miles, became +a weary and exhausting journey. Themselves on foot, and compelled to +keep up with the pace of mounted men, it was a tiresome task; but to do +so under the burning rays of a Southern sun was nearly impossible. To +make matters worse, in the present case, the Confederates having +sustained a defeat at Bristoe and Rappahannock Station, the guard was +not in the most amiable humor; in addition to which they were compelled +to use haste in order to avoid capture by the victorious Federals. +Glazier gave no thought to his present discomfort, and to use his own +words, "felt relieved when he heard of the successes of his comrades." +Still the annoyance of this compulsory tramp was felt keenly. The +prisoners "being encumbered with heavy high-heeled cavalry boots," and +their feet having become tender from contact with the mud and water +through which they marched, soon became a mass of blisters, and their +sufferings from this cause alone were intense. Six of the poor fellows +succumbed, unable to proceed. After a journey attended with much mental +depression, and bodily agony, the former increased by the barbarous +contumely flung at them by men who emerged from roadside inns, to stare +at them as they passed, the prisoners, including the subject of our +story, entered Richmond, and were at once introduced to the amenities of +"Libby Prison." + + + + +CHAPTER XVI. + + +LIBBY PRISON. + + + "All ye who enter here abandon hope."--Auld lang syne.--Major + Turner.--Hope deferred maketh the heart sick.--Stoicism.--Glazier + enters the prison-hospital.--A charnel-house.--Rebel + surgeons.--Prison correspondence.--Specimen of a regulation + letter.--The tailor's joke.--A Roland for an Oliver.--News of + death.--Schemes for escape.--The freemasonry of misfortune.--Plot + and counter-plot.--The pursuit of pleasure under difficulties. + +It does not come within the scope of the present work to enter into a +detailed description of the sufferings of the Union prisoners in this +place of durance: those who have a taste for such gloomy themes may +gratify it by reading the first work by our young soldier-author, +entitled "The Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape," in which the horrors of +that house of misery are eloquently described. We may, however, say this +much, that if the testimony of eye-witnesses is to be credited, it was a +fearful place, and one over whose portals the words of Dante might have +been appropriately inscribed, "All ye who enter here abandon hope." + +[Illustration: Libby Prison.] + +Of some thousand Northern officers confined here, Glazier, of course, +met several from his own corps, who had been previously captured. He at +first felt his condition very acutely. His roving life amid the +magnificent scenery of Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania was now +exchanged for the gloomy and monotonous routine of a prison; but he +writes under date of October twenty-eighth, in a more reconciled and +hopeful strain "I am gradually," he says, "becoming accustomed to this +dungeon life, and I presume I shall fall into the habit of enjoying +myself at times. 'How use doth breed a habit in a man.' Indeed he can +accommodate himself to almost any clime or any circumstance of life, a +gift of adaptation no other living thing possesses in any such degree." +Of one man, in the midst of all his philosophy, our hero speaks very +bitterly. We allude to Major Turner, military warden of the prison. He +describes him as possessed of a vindictive, depraved, and fiendish +nature, and moralizes over the man and his career in this wise: + +"There is nothing more terrible than a human soul grown powerful in sin, +and left to the horrible machinations of the evil one, and its own evil +promptings. Demons developed from germs that might have produced +seraphs, become rank growths, drinking in the healthful stimulants of +life and reproducing them in hideous forms of vice and crime. + + "'Souls made of fire, and children of the sun, + With whom revenge is virtue.' + +"Thus we see a soul coming pure and plastic from its Maker's hand, yet +afterward standing before the world, stained and hardened." + +Slowly and wearily the days and weeks passed on in "Libby," leaving its +drear monotony unbroken, except when the rumor of a prospect of being +exchanged came to flush the faces of the captives with a hope destined +not to be fulfilled while Willard Glazier was in Richmond. The result +was that he at length abandoned all hope of being exchanged, and for a +time tried hard to cultivate and "grow into the luxury of indifference." +His experience told him that "however reprehensible" it might be in +ordinary life, "stoicism, under the circumstances in which he then found +himself, was an actual necessity." His mind appears at this time to have +sustained him under many extreme bodily privations. But despite all his +philosophy and cultivated resignation of spirit, despite the mental +resources which he fortunately possessed in no small degree, and which +enabled him to occupy his time profitably, while others were pacing up +and down the room like caged beasts, feeding upon their own hearts, his +bodily health was materially impaired. The first winter month, with its +frosty atmosphere, and fierce northern blasts, instead of bringing +invigoration to his wasted frame, left him more debilitated; and upon +the eighth of December he succumbed to a disease which had been +encroaching upon him for some time, and requested to be sent to the +hospital. His sensations were far from pleasant when, for the first time +in his life, he found himself seriously ill among enemies, and in that +most dismal of all dismal places, a Prison Infirmary. "Once in the +hospital," he writes, "I found myself soon subjected to its peculiar +influences. There was the ominous stillness, broken only by the choking +cough, or labored groan; the chilling dread, as though one were in the +immediate presence of death, and under the ban of silence; and the +anxious yearning--the almost frantic yearning one feels in the +contemplation of suffering which he is powerless to alleviate. And worse +than all, at last came the hardened feeling which a familiarity with +such scenes produces. This is nothing but an immense charnel-house. We +are constantly in the midst of the dead and dying. Nearly every day some +of our comrades, and on some days several of them, are borne away +coffinless and unshrouded to their unmarked graves. Nor flower, nor +cross, nor hallowed token, gives grace to the dead, or beauty to the +grave. I am well aware that in time of war, on the field of carnage, in +camp, where the pestilential fever rages, or in the crowded prisons of +the enemy, human life is but little valued. Yet there are moments amidst +all these scenes, when the importance of life and the terrors of death, +seem to force themselves upon the mind of every man, with a power which +cannot be resisted." + +It is pleasant to find that here, as generally in the world with members +of the learned professions, the surgeons were humane and kind; and +remonstrated with the authorities whenever remonstrance on behalf of the +poor sufferers was needed. Of course they could not "minister to a mind +diseased, pluck from the memory a rooted sorrow," or, + + "With some sweet oblivious antidote, cleanse + The choked bosom of that perilous stuff + That weighs upon the heart;" + +but gracious words and sympathizing looks, and the consciousness that he +was once more in the hands of _gentlemen_, were a source of great +comfort to the patient, after having been brought into daily and hourly +contact with the familiars of Major Turner. Another gratifying +circumstance was, that the Federal surgeons held as prisoners were +permitted to attend upon their sick comrades when they expressed a wish +to do so, and that, of course, was very frequently. Even an hospital has +its little events, which although they appear very trifling in the +retrospect, are of considerable importance at the time of their +occurrence. Here these little episodes were not infrequent. At one time +it was the destruction of a box of dainties sent by the Federal Sanitary +Commission for the prisoners; at another, it was the excitement incident +to an exchange of the surgeons held in captivity; and again, it was the +surreptitious acquisition by some of the patients of a daily newspaper, +and the guarded dissemination of such items as it might contain among +his fellow-sufferers; but greatest of all in importance was the receipt +of a letter from HOME. Even when surrounded by all the incidents of home +life, the postman is ever a welcome visitor; but in the midst of such a +dreary captivity as these men were undergoing, a letter from _home_ was +like a message from heaven. + +Their correspondence had, however, its sad as well as its cheerful +aspect. The prisoners were restricted in writing their letters to six +lines, by an arbitrary order from Major Turner, and much ingenuity was +exercised in the effort to crowd into these six lines the thousand and +one messages which many of the writers desired to send to mothers, +wives, sisters and sweethearts. Here is a genuine specimen of a +"regulation" letter from a fond husband to the wife of his bosom: + + My Dear Wife: Yours received--no hope of exchange--send + corn-starch--want socks--no money--rheumatism in left + shoulder--pickles very good--send sausages--God bless you--Kiss the + baby--Hail Columbia! Your devoted husband, + + A. D. S. + +But the "rule of six" was successfully evaded for a considerable time, +by the manufacture and use of invisible ink. The trick was however at +last discovered, and the way in which Glazier tells the story is so +amusing, that we are tempted to give it in his own words: + +"A certain captain writing to a fair and undoubtedly dear friend, could +not brook the idea of being limited to six lines, when he had so much to +communicate; so resorting to the use of invisible ink, he comfortably +filled the sheet with 'soft and winning words,' and then fearing lest +his _inamorata_ would not discover the secret he added this postscript: + +"'P.S.--Now, my dear, read this over, and then bake it in the oven and +read it again.' + +"This was too much. The rebels thinking if the letter would improve by +baking it might be well to improve it at once, accordingly held it over +the fire. This brought to light four closely written pages of the +tenderest and most heart-rending sentiment." + +Ever after all letters sent out by the prisoners were carefully +inspected and subjected to the "ordeal by fire," so that, to use the +expressive language of an old soldier, "that game was played." + +Among Glazier's fellow-prisoners at this time was a certain Major +Halsted. He was one of those social anomalies that are not infrequently +met with in this country, a man of obscure origin, a member of a very +humble calling, prior to entering the army, and yet possessing the +personal appearance and manners of a man of distinction. He really +belonged to that terribly maligned craft of whose followers it is +popularly said, "It takes nine to make a man,"--he was a tailor. Upon +this fact some of the little wits of the prison, forgetting that one of +the bravest of Napoleon's generals, and one of the most intrepid of +America's sons, had each followed the same occupation, were in the habit +of jokingly asking him to repair their old and dilapidated clothes. + +When this jest was first indulged in, those who knew the undaunted +spirit and somewhat irascible temper of the major, expected to hear him +blaze out upon the perpetrator of the _mauvaise plaisantrie_, or +possibly knock him down. To their surprise, however, he did neither. For +a single moment a gleam of passionate wrath shot up in his eyes, but it +was instantly suppressed, and he joined in the laugh against himself. +Seeing, however, that the victim of the joke did not appear at all +disturbed or hurt, other, better-natured fellows followed in the wake, +and the jest of asking the major to patch a pair of breeches or mend a +coat, became somewhat threadbare by repetition. + +It happened, however, that one day the rebel surgeon accidentally tore +his coat across the breast, and turning to Major H. said, he would give +him a bottle of wine if he would repair it. "Yes, sir," said the major, +"if you will furnish me with a needle, thread, and a few other +indispensables, I will take the whole suit and make it look very +different." He added, "the fact is, I would rather do anything than rust +in idleness in this d----d prison." Finding that he spoke seriously, and +as if it were an ordinary business, the Confederate sawbones, who had a +lively appreciation of Yankee handicraft, accepted the offer, and all +next day the major was hard at work clipping and scouring and pressing +the surgeon's uniform, every now and then the owner thereof passing by +and smiling approval; and it was remarked that his face wore that +complacent expression common to all good men when they have furnished +employment for idle hands--and it is not going to cost them anything. + +The same evening, however, when the work, so neatly done, was finished, +the major very quietly slipped it upon his own dignified person, and +taking with him a fellow-prisoner as "hospital steward," coolly walked +past the guard, remarking, to the great consternation of that personage, +"My friend, there are unmistakable indications of _cerebro-spinal +meningitis_ in your eyes. Come over to the hospital as soon as you are +relieved, and I will see what can be done for you," walked out into the +street, and neither he nor the "hospital steward" was heard of again +until they reached the Federal lines. + +The devices resorted to, to effect an escape, were as ingenious as they +were numerous, and for a short time the most popular and successful +_ruse_ was for the prisoners to get into the hospital, simulate death, +and, while left unguarded in the dead-house, to escape. The difference, +however, between the tally of the deaths and the burials ultimately +attracted the attention of the authorities, and that was stopped. + +It will be remembered that while young Glazier was fighting his last +fight prior to his capture upon the nineteenth of October, the family at +home were gathered around his sister's dying bed, when her gentle spirit +winged its flight to Heaven. From that day until the twenty-ninth of +November, he had received no news of his family, and consequently, up +to that time, was ignorant of her decease. It had been his habit during +the weary hours of his prison life, to overcome the tendency to despair +from brooding over his misfortunes--which is common to all human beings +in trouble--to fix his thought upon the loved ones at home. His +imagination constantly conjured up pictures of his parents, his sisters +and brothers, and placed them amid the rustic surroundings of his +boyhood's home. Even while in the hospital, and tossing with fever upon +his bed, the visions which haunted him were not visions of red-handed +war, but of quiet country life, where his kindred filled their several +spheres of duty. He had never thought of them, except collectively. +Although he had, from time to time, felt apprehensive that "Elvi" was +somewhat delicate, he never had the slightest fear that her life was +thereby endangered. Hence, when the sad news arrived, it came as a +terrible surprise. His sisters had been the objects of his peculiar +care. The relation he had borne to them, young as he was, was that of a +father, as well as brother. He never wearied of devising plans for their +intellectual improvement. He made it his peculiar care that they should +be thoroughly educated, and that, while intellectually robust, none of +the soft down and bloom of true womanhood should be brushed away in the +process. They were his memory's "good angels" even in sleep; for what +must have been his dreams in the midst of such surroundings, if he had +not had them to think of! + +The shock on thus learning of his sister's death was a very great one to +young Glazier, and his reflections for a time were bitter. He alludes +to the subject himself in this way: "In the very midst of death I am +permitted to drag out a weary life, while dear ones in a land of health, +freedom and plenty are struck down by the fatal shaft. Her death +occurred on the nineteenth of October, the very day of my capture. I was +thrust into prison, and doubly bound to the groveling discomforts of +earth, while _she_ was released from the prison-house of clay, and +received, I believe into the joyous, freedom of Heaven. Our lives are +all in the hands of Him who doeth all things well. He appoints us a +period of existence, and appoints a moment to depart. All other +influences are subordinate to His will. 'What can preserve our lives, +and what destroy!'" + +From the moment he realized that he was in the hands of the enemy, after +the battle of New Baltimore, Glazier had made up his mind to exercise +sleepless vigilance in seeking for opportunities of escape. He pondered +over the matter until he became a complete enthusiast in his efforts to +master the minute details of the construction and topography of the +place of his confinement, and, by the exercise of that natural +freemasonry which enables kindred spirits to recognize each other, soon +effected an understanding upon the subject with certain of the more +daring of his companions in misfortune. One of these gentlemen was a +Lieutenant Tresouthick, an officer of the Eighteenth Pennsylvania +Cavalry. In order to comprehend the plan which they finally determined +to carry out, it will be necessary to premise that Libby Prison was a +three-story structure, built over very ample cellarage; that the stories +were each divided into three compartments, as was the cellar; and that +these spaces were all of equal size in length and breadth. For the +purpose of conveying a clear conception of the _locus in quo_ of the +proposed effort, the reader should also be informed that the hospital +occupied the first floor; that Lieutenant Tresouthick was one of the +occupants of the room immediately above it; and that there were sinks +built against the exterior wall of the same height as each story, and +running the entire length of the building. The lieutenant's plan was, +that "he should feign sickness and get into the hospital," says our +hero, in describing the scheme; "and that I, in the meanwhile, should, +with a saw-backed knife, cut a board out of the sink large enough to let +us through." This looked feasible enough, and the two conspirators were +beginning to felicitate themselves upon their approaching freedom, when +they discovered that any such opening as they proposed, would let them +out "directly opposite the guard," so _that_ plan had to be dropped. +Glazier then proposed a plan of operations, promising better and safer +results. It was, that Tresouthick should still carry out his original +idea of a feigned sickness and consequent admission to the hospital; +that he (Glazier) should procure a piece of rope, eight or ten feet +long, and then, "some dark, rainy night," the pair should "steal down +into the basement"--the outer doors of which were "not locked until ten +o'clock"--and await their opportunity. That, when they once reached the +exterior of the building, and the sentry's back was turned, they should +rush past him on either side, and, with the rope, trip him up, in the +hope of being beyond the reach of his musket before he could fire. This +was approved by the lieutenant, and they made up their minds to try it. +Of course, it was necessary that Lieutenant Tresouthick's illness should +come on very gradually, and progress naturally from bad to worse, until +he became a fit subject for the hospital, so that some time was occupied +in preliminary preparations before any steps could be taken for the +execution of their plan. + +Meanwhile, through the kindness of one of the surgeons, young Glazier +was furnished with some reading matter, a very great luxury to a man in +his situation and of his tastes. In his more serious hours he re-read +the Bible, and committed to memory daily a portion of "Saint Matthew's +Gospel;" and for relaxation read "Napoleon and his Marshals." This with +an occasional game at chess, checkers, or dominos, games in which the +invalids were permitted to indulge, made the hours pass much more +pleasantly than those spent in the convalescent department. It is true +their chess-board was made with chalk upon the floor, the "men" being +pieces wrought out of bone saved from their soup, and the "checkers" old +buttons ripped from their scanty wardrobe. But these rude implements +afforded as much real sport as if they had been constructed of ivory or +gold. The scene must at all times have been grimly grotesque in this +place, for all the trades and professions had their representatives +there, and the lawyers held mock courts, politicians formed caucuses, +gamblers started a square game of faro, and even some ministers of the +gospel gathered together a few of the prisoners each day, who listened +to words of hope and comfort from their lips. + +On the eighth of December Glazier made this note in his diary: "Getting +into the hospital is no easy matter, but Tresouthick is becoming more +and more sick, and has good hopes." But + + "The best o' plans o' mice and men + Gang aft aglee;" + +and all hope of escape for our two worthies was interrupted by the +inconvenient fact that a couple of their comrades anticipated them in +point of time, and by so doing aroused the guards to such a state of +vigilance, that our over-sanguine boys saw there was no chance for them. +Consequently Lieutenant Tresouthick's illness vanished as it had come, +and he was soon pronounced convalescent. + + + + +CHAPTER XVII. + + +PRISON LIFE. + + + Mournful news.--How a brave man dies.--New Year's Day.--Jolly under + unfavorable circumstances.--Major Turner pays his + respects.--Punishment for singing "villainous Yankee + songs."--Confederate General John Morgan.--Plans for + escape.--Digging their way to freedom.--"Post No. 1, All's + well."--Yankee ingenuity.--The tunnel ready.--Muscle the trump + card.--No respect to rank.--_Sauve qui peut!_--A strategic + movement.--"Guards! guards!"--Absentees from + muster.--Disappointed hopes.--Savage treatment of prisoners.--Was + the prison mined? + +The Richmond papers occasionally found their way into the hands of the +prisoners, and the following mournful item of news is transcribed from +one of them. The writer of the ensuing letter was a man about thirty +years of age, who was accused by the rebel authorities of having acted +as a spy on behalf of the Union government. A gloom hung over the prison +for some days after the reading of the article: + + + Castle Thunder, Richmond, Virginia. + + Dear Father:--By permission and through the courtesy of Captain + Alexander, I am enabled to write you a few lines. You, who before + this have heard from me in regard to my situation here, can, I + trust, bear it, when I tell you that my days on earth are soon + ended. + + Last Saturday I was court-martialed, and this evening, a short time + since, I received notice of my sentence from Captain Alexander, + who has since shown me every kindness consistent with his duty. + + Writing to my dear parents, I feel there can be no greater comfort + after such tidings, than to tell you that I trust, by the mercy of + our Heavenly Father, to die the death of a Christian. + + For more than a year, since the commencement of my confinement, I + have been trying to serve him in my own feeble way, and I do not + fear to go to Him. + + I would have loved to see you all again; God saw best not; why + should we mourn? Comfort your hearts, my dear parents, by thoughts + of God's mercy unto your son, and bow with reverence beneath the + hand of Him who "doeth all things well." + + * * * I sent a ring to my wife by a clergyman, Monday last; I also + sent a telegram to yourself, which will arrive too late, as the + time of my execution is set for the day after to-morrow. + + Dear parents: there are but few more moments left me; I will try to + think often of you; God bless and comfort you; remember me kindly + and respectfully to all my dear friends and relatives. Tell Kitty I + hope to meet her again. Take care of Freddy for me; put him often + in remembrance of me. + + Dear mother, good-bye. God comfort you, my mother, and bless you + with the love of happy children. Farewell, my father; we meet again + by God's mercy. + + Spencer Kellogg. + + +The following account of the execution is from a Richmond paper: + +"At eleven o'clock yesterday forenoon, a detail of one hundred men from +the City Battalion, marched from Castle Thunder with Spencer Kellogg, +the recently condemned spy, in custody. + +"The cavalcade reached the scene of execution about half-past twelve +o'clock, where, as usual, a vast concourse of people, of both sexes and +all ages, were congregated. After a few moments spent in preliminary +arrangements, the prisoner was escorted, under guard, to the gallows. +While seated in the hack awaiting the perfection of the arrangements for +his execution, he conversed freely with the utmost _nonchalance_ with +Dr. Burrows, frequently smiling at some remark made either by himself or +the minister. + +"Arriving under the gallows, the charges preferred against the accused +and the sentence of the court-martial were read. A short but impressive +prayer was then offered by the minister, at the conclusion of which the +condemned man, unaccompanied, mounted the scaffold. + +"In a few moments Detective Capehart followed, and commenced to adjust +the rope over the neck of the condemned, in which he assisted, all the +while talking with the officer. On taking off his hat, to admit the +noose over his head, he threw it one side, and falling off the scaffold, +it struck a gentleman beneath, when the prisoner turned quickly, and +bowing, said: 'Excuse me, sir!' + +"A negro next came on the scaffold with a ladder, and proceeded to +fasten the rope to the upper beam, the prisoner meanwhile regarding him +with the greatest composure. The rope being fastened, the negro was in +the act of coming down, when the prisoner, looking up at the rope, +remarked: 'This will not break my neck! It is not more than a foot fall! +Doctor, I wish you would come up and arrange this thing!' The rope was +then rearranged to his satisfaction, and the cloth cap placed over his +head. + +"The condemned man then bowed his head, and engaged a few seconds in +prayer, at the conclusion of which he raised himself, and standing +perfectly erect, pronounced in a clear voice: 'All ready!' + +"The drop fell, and the condemned man was launched into eternity!" + +Kellogg is said by his captors to have died with the conviction that he +had furnished more valuable information, in the character of a spy, to +the Federal government than any other ten men in the service. But this +has been denied by his friends at the North, who assert that he was +innocent of the charge. + +With baseless rumors of a soon-to-be-effected cartel of exchange; the +drawing of lots for the selection of hostages, upon whom the Confederacy +proposed to retaliate for the punishment inflicted upon three +Confederates by the Federal authorities who had sentenced them to +imprisonment in the Illinois State Prison; listening to yarns spun by +real or pretended veterans; playing games of chance; holding spirited +debates; reading letters from home; occasionally poring over the +newspaper procured by stealth; or meditating plans of escape--the +balance of the year 1863 wore on to its close, and still Willard Glazier +was a prisoner of war, with no prospect whatever of a speedy release. +Then came New-Year's Day, 1864, and some little attempt was made to get +up a New-Year's dinner--though no extra rations had been issued. They +did their best, however, like Mark Tapley, to be "jolly under +unfavorable circumstances." + +Nothing occurred out of the usual routine until the twenty-fourth of +January, when, as the prisoners, including Glazier, were singing "The +Star-Spangled Banner," "Rally Round the Flag, Boys," etc., the door +leading into the street was suddenly flung open, and a squad of armed +men filed in. Turner was at their head, and quickly crossing the room +and placing himself at the door leading up-stairs, to prevent any of the +prisoners from making their escape, began: "Now you d----d boisterous +scoundrels, I'll teach you to begin your d----d howling in this building +again. I want you to understand that you must not drive people crazy out +in the streets with your villainous Yankee songs." He then turned to his +men and ordered them to "Take their stations around the d----d rascals, +and shoot the first man that dared to stir out of his tracks." Having +completed which arrangement, he added to his helpless victims: "Now, +d--n you, stay here until twelve o'clock to-night, and make a bit of +noise or move from your place, if you dare." And he kept them there +until the appointed hour, standing and in silence. "The fires went out +early in the evening, and the cold became intense. Some managed to get +blankets from their friends," in the apartment above, "but the guards +soon put a stop to that. One man called down to a friend through a +knot-hole in the floor, asking him if he wanted a blanket. The guard +heard him, cocked his gun, and aimed at the hole; but a call from below +gave the man warning and he fled." And all this for singing a song +written by a Southerner, in praise of the flag under whose aegis Major +Turner was nurtured and received his military education! It is quite +possible that a song identified with the cause of their supposed enemy +might have produced a commotion among the ignorant rabble in the street, +and hence it is perhaps unfair to blame the commander of the prison for +prohibiting the loud singing, which partook somewhat of the nature of +defiance; but he could certainly have attained his object as effectually +in a manner becoming an officer and a gentleman. Even the victims of the +First French Revolution were permitted to express in song through the +bars of the Temple sentiments of utter scorn for their enemies, and +when the Jacobins in their turn marched to the guillotine they did so, +singing the "Marseillaise." + +A great sensation was created among the prisoners on the twenty-fifth of +the month on account of a visit made to "Libby" by the famous raider, +General John Morgan, whom Glazier describes as a "large, fine-looking +officer, wearing a full beard and a rebel uniform, trimmed with the +usual amount of gold braid;" but something far more interesting than the +visit of any man, however famous, began to absorb the attention of our +imprisoned hero at this time. He had never ceased to rack his brain with +schemes looking to his escape. A life of captivity was indescribably +wearisome to him. He not only taxed his own ingenuity in the effort to +discover some feasible plan, but eagerly entered into the schemes of +others. The result, however, so far as he was individually concerned, +was by no means in accordance with his hopes; but, as he has given the +details in his "Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape," we cannot do better +(even at the risk of quoting from that work more freely than we had +intended) than to let our readers have it in his own words, thus: + +"Early in the winter, Colonel Thomas E. Rose, of the Seventy-seventh +Pennsylvania Volunteers, conceived a plan of escape, and organized a +secret company of twenty-seven, who were to dig their way to freedom. + +"Colonel Rose was well calculated to superintend this work, for he had +served in the Mexican War, was taken prisoner by the Mexicans, and after +a short confinement, escaped by tunneling from the prison a sufficient +distance to be clear of the guards. He had served his apprenticeship +and was now prepared to manage and direct. After thorough organization +of our company, with secrecy well enjoined, we adopted the following +plan of operations: + +"In the basement of the building just below our cook-room, was a small +unoccupied cellar, which had been closed since our arrival, and was +never entered. From this room or cellar arose a large chimney, which +passed through the cook-room, and so to the top of the building. Our +first work was to make a hole in the chimney from the kitchen, which +opening we could easily conceal by means of some slop-barrels. These +barrels we managed ourselves to empty, so that all danger of detection +from this point was carefully avoided. A short ladder which our +considerate jailers had brought into the rooms for the purpose of +raising their flag on the building, was used to make our descent into +the dark room below. Inquiry was made for the ladder, but as no one +seemed to know anything about it, it was inferred that it had been +converted into fuel. At the foot of the ladder another opening was made +through the chimney wall leading into the underground basement room. By +removing a few stones from the wall of this place, we were in a +situation to commence the work of tunneling. The only implements in our +possession were an old trowel and the half of a canteen. The arduous +labor was commenced with only the fragment of a canteen, but with this +the progress was so slow that even the most patient were disheartened. +Fortunately for us a mason came in to repair the prison walls, and going +to dinner before he had finished his work, left his trowel, which in his +absence most mysteriously disappeared. To him it may have been of +little account, to us it was a godsend. With the aid of this implement +we were enabled to make more rapid progress, were greatly encouraged, +and worked night and day with ceaseless energy. Two of our number were +kept in the tunnel almost constantly. One, by a vigorous use of the +trowel and canteen, would advance slowly, placing the loosened earth in +an old blanket, which the other would convey out of the tunnel into a +corner of the room, from whence it started. Our course was due east, +under the street, where constantly paced the sentinels, who at every +hour of the night were wont to cry: 'Post No. 1; all's well!'--'Post No. +2; all's well!' etc. Little did they dream that Yankee ingenuity and +perseverance were perforating the solid earth under their feet, and +opening a path to freedom. + +"As we progressed in our work we experienced great difficulty from the +want of pure air to breathe, and to sustain our candles, which refused +to burn. Consequently, one of our party was compelled to stand at the +opening, fanning pure air into the tunnel with his hat. Our atmospheric +difficulties were the more increased by the small size of the hole, +which was a little less than two feet in diameter, quite irregular in +consequence of large stones, and descended in a line below the +horizontal. This severe labor was carried on without much interruption +for more than three weeks, when, at last, the plan came near being a +failure on account of a sad mistake in our measurement. Our intention +was to reach the yard of an old shed, or warehouse, in which were then +stored the boxes sent us by the Christian and Sanitary Commissions, and +by our friends at the North. + +"Thinking we had reached the desired point, an opening was made to the +surface, when it was found we were still in the street, outside the +fence, and within a few yards of the sentries. Not discovered by this +mishap, the hole was quickly filled with a pair of old pants and some +straw, and the work of excavation continued to the spot intended. + +"The selection of this point was very fortunate, as the guards used to +skulk about this building at night for the purpose of plundering the +boxes, and on the night of the escape, as it happened, they saw every +man that came out; but, supposing them to be friends, only whispered to +each other, that 'the boys were going through the _Yankee boxes_ mighty +fast.' + +"These whisperings," adds Captain Glazier, "were distinctly heard by +some of our men. The tunnel was about sixty-five feet in length, and was +ready for use February ninth, 1864. + +"The company of diggers had arranged that they should make their egress +first, and inform the others just as they were going out. But each man +had a particular friend whom he wished to notify, and, as we were seen +packing our clothing, it soon became suspected among our +fellow-prisoners that something unusual was in the wind. Curiosity, once +on the alert, soon discovered the secret, and then all were jubilant +with the hope of escape, and forthwith commenced packing their poor +wardrobes. But egress was so slow that it soon became evident to the +cool calculator that, at best, but a comparatively small proportion of +our number would be fortunate enough to take their departure from +'Libby' before daylight would forbid any further efforts in that +direction. + +"In order to get down the chimney, as well as along the tunnel, it was +necessary to do so _in puris naturalibus_, wrap our clothing in a +bundle, and push it on before us. As soon as it was seen that only a few +could possibly get out, many, and in fact most, became selfish, and +thought only of attaining their own liberty. All rushed for the mouth of +the tunnel, each man seemingly determined to be first out. By this +movement, the organization formed by the pioneers or working party was +broken up, and the workmen, who were to have had the first opportunity +to escape, were not more favorably situated than those who had never +borne a hand in the digging. At the entrance to the tunnel were hundreds +eagerly awaiting their turn. + +"Through the intense anxiety and excitement that arose, there was a rush +and a crowd, each one being eager to improve the opportunity. Muscle was +the trump card, and won. The weak had to step aside, or rather they were +pushed aside without apology. No respect was paid to rank or name. A +long-armed second lieutenant had no scruple in taking hold of a pair of +shoulders that wore eagles, and pushing them out of the way. It was +_sauve qui peut_, and no standing aside for betters--no deference to +age, and gray hairs ceased to be honored. Mere physical force was the +test of championship. Those poor weak ones who gravitated to the +outskirts of such an eager crowding mass--just as the light kernels will +find their way to the top of a shaken measure of wheat--doubtless +thought, as they felt themselves crowded further and further from the +door of egress: + + "'Oh, it is excellent + To have a giant's strength, but 'tis tyrannous + To use it like a giant!' + +"I made several attempts," Glazier continues, "to assert what I +considered my rights, but as I had not, at that time, much muscle to +back my claims, they were not recognized, and thus I spent the whole +night in a bootless struggle for freedom. + +"In digging the tunnel we had encountered a large root which we could +not well remove, and the passage at this point was very narrow. +Lieutenant Wallace F. Randolph, Fifth United States Artillery, a +corpulent fellow, was caught fast by the root. There was a man before +him, and another behind, which almost entirely excluded atmospheric +circulation, and before they could pull him out of his unfortunate +predicament, Randolph was almost dead. He was, however, successful at +last. This blockade greatly retarded the line of march, and made the +crowd within still more desperate. + +"Some of the outsiders in the struggle, who despaired of accomplishing +anything by strength, had recourse to a stratagem. There had been +considerable noise during the struggle for position, and the guards were +expected to make their appearance at any moment. The outsiders, taking +advantage of this apprehension, went to the farther end of the +cook-room, and, in the darkness, made a racket with pots and kettles, +which sounded very much like the clashing of fire-arms; while some of +their number in the crowd sang out: 'Guards! guards!' In an instant +every man was gone from the tunnel, and a frantic rush took place for +the single stairway by about five hundred men. Such a struggling and +pressing I have never elsewhere seen, or participated in. We neither +walked up, nor ran up, but were literally lifted from our feet, and +propelled along in a solid mass up the passage, and made our entrance +through the door at the head of the stairs as though shot from a +cannon--most of us not stopping until we struck the wall on the opposite +side of the room. While this was going on, the scamps who had given the +false alarm were quietly passing out of the tunnel! The _ruse_ was soon +discovered, however, and, in a few minutes, there was as great a jam at +the entrance of the tunnel as ever. But, so eager and unthinking were +we, that within half an hour, the same trick was played on us again by +others and then followed another stampede up the stairs. It is a wonder +this affair was not stopped by the guards, but they had no suspicion +whatever of what was going on. This was probably owing to the fact that +great noises in the cook-room were common throughout the night as well +as day. It is however reported that one of the sentinels was heard to +call out jocosely to a comrade on the next beat, 'Hello, Billy! there +goes somebody's coffee-pot, sure.' + +"This struggle continued until morning, when the opening in the chimney +was covered, and we went to our several quarters. Here a muster was +called to discover how many had made their escape, when it was found +that one hundred and fifteen were missing. Arrangements were at once +made to account for their absence, and certain men were designated who +were to cross the room slyly during roll-call, and be counted twice. + +"For some reason the authorities were late that morning, and did not +make their appearance until about ten o'clock. On the roll being called +the men, according to arrangement, attempted to cross the room, but the +movement was discovered, and so the count showed one hundred and fifteen +short. The clerk thought he had made a mistake, and counted again, but +with the same result. The authorities also thought there must be some +error in the count, and joked little Ross, the prison clerk, who was +none of the brightest, because he could not count a thousand Yankees! + +"We were now marched from one room to another, and counted one by one, +but still there were one hundred and fifteen short of the complement. +We, of course, pretended to be as much surprised as the authorities. +They next sent for Major Turner, and he counted us two or three times, +but with an equally unsatisfactory result. He demanded of us where they +had gone, and how they got out; but not a man knew. + +"The escape was at once made public, and the papers were filled with the +news, and the most strenuous measures at once adopted to ensure the +recapture of the runaways. The authorities were terribly exasperated, +and as a first step, arrested the guards and threw them into Castle +Thunder, concluding as a matter of course, that they had been bribed. +This set the guards thinking, and one of them remembered he had seen an +unusual number of men in the lot near the Yankee boxes. Latouche, the +prison adjutant, hearing of this, just before nightfall discovered the +locality of the opening. Next, they questioned the prisoners as to +_where_ in the building it began, but could obtain no satisfaction, and +not until after a long search, did they discover the opening in the +chimney." + +So the "patient toil and vigil long" of poor Glazier went for nothing. +The Confederate authorities seem to have treated the matter very +good-humoredly, frankly expressed their surprise at the ingenuity and +patience of the subterranean engineers, and manfully set about the task +of recapturing the fugitives. Forty-eight were brought in during the +next two days, but at the same time it leaked out among the prisoners +that the Unionists under General Kilpatrick were within the outer line +of fortifications, engaging the rebels, as it was conjectured, with the +view of rescuing the prisoners. The consequence was, there was much +excitement among the latter, for the boom of cannon sounded distinctly +in their ears, and that sound was accepted as the music that heralded +their approaching freedom. + +All such hopes, however, were doomed to disappointment. The object of +the expedition, which was a combined movement from different points by +General Kilpatrick and Colonel Dahlgren, was defeated in consequence of +the treachery of a negro guide, employed by the latter officer, and one +of the effects of this man's treason was the death of that gallant young +soldier. The only result that followed to the prisoners was that the +rebels became more exasperated than ever, and unfortunately for their +reputation, they seem, with regard to the treatment of the few prisoners +that fell into their hands on this occasion, to have behaved rather like +savage than civilized people. Not satisfied with the perpetration of +acts of cruelty upon these particular prisoners, they (according to +Captain Glazier's information) undermined the prison building, and +stored beneath the foundation a sufficient quantity of powder to blow it +into fragments. This proceeding he says they called, with more force +than elegance, "preparing the Yankees for hell;" and Major Turner +very grimly informed them that if any further attempt at escape were +made, or efforts for their rescue, the prison would be blown to atoms! +It is not surprising that at such a time, and under the circumstances, +the prisoners looked upon this threat as meant in sober reality; but in +all probability (or at least let us hope), it was used simply as a means +of discouraging attempts upon the part of the incarcerated men, to +regain their liberty by their own efforts or that of their friends. + +[Illustration: The Hole In The Floor.] + +The raiders captured in the expedition under Kilpatrick and Dahlgren had +been thrust into a cell directly beneath the room in which Glazier was +confined. Contrivances were made to open communication with them for the +purpose, if possible, of alleviating their sufferings, as it was well +known that food was issued to them in very niggardly quantities, and +every indignity the rebels could devise inflicted upon them. After much +effort, by the aid of a knife, a hole was cut in the floor, sufficiently +large to pass a man's hand, and through this hole Glazier, for several +weeks, was instrumental in furnishing the captives with a share of his +own and his companions' rations, which were eagerly grasped and devoured +by the starving men. No single act of our hero's life afforded him more +real happiness than the service he was thus enabled to render the brave +men who had lost their liberty in the noble effort to capture the prison +and release its inmates. + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII. + + +DANVILLE.--MACON.--SAVANNAH. + + + Belle Boyd, the Confederate spy.--National characteristics.-- + Colonel Mosby.--Richmond to Danville.--Sleeping spoon-fashion.-- + Glazier's "corrective point" suffers.--Saltatory entrance to a + railroad car.--Colonel Joselyn.--Sympathy of North Carolinians.-- + Ingenious efforts to escape.--Augusta.--Macon.--Turner again!-- + "Carelessness" with firearms.--Tunneling.--Religious revival.-- + Order from Confederate War Department.--Murder!--Fourth of + July.--Macon to Savannah.--Camp Davidson.--More tunneling. + +The celebrated Confederate spy, Belle Boyd, paid a visit to "Libby" in +the latter part of March, and her presence created much comment among +the prisoners. She was not that ideal of grace and gentleness which + + "Untutored youth, + Unlearned in the world's false subtleties," + +enthrones within the temple of his heart, but was, notwithstanding, a +remarkable woman. With much of the enthusiasm that characterized "_La +Pucelle_," she appears to have combined a considerable allowance of +shrewdness, or common sense; a mixture of qualities, by the way, of more +common occurrence than is generally supposed, among the northern and +southern people of our continent. There is little difference between the +"peartness" of the one, and the "smartness" of the other; or the "high +tone" of the South, and the _nonchalance_ of the North. The common +_national_ characteristic of the people of both sections, however, is +the power of adapting themselves to every variety of circumstance. No +matter what the importance, or the insignificance of the occasion, or +event, upon which they perceive that their opportunity for the +attainment of a desired object depends, they are ready at the right +moment to seize and turn it to account; and while, to-day, the banks of +the Ganges or the Tigris are made to yield up to them the fruits of +their industry and produce, to-morrow, when a modification of the law of +demand and supply prevails, we find the same men following the tide of +fortune through humbler but equally useful channels. We are +pre-eminently a practical people, and that this characteristic to some +extent destroys the poetic aspect of American life, cannot be gainsaid. +The homes of our infancy, the graves of our kindred, the hills upon +whose summits we first felt the glory of the morning, the altar at which +we first knelt in prayer, the rustic nook where we listened for the one +step to which our boyish hearts beat sweetest time; have no power to +trammel our migratory proclivities, or to check our local inconstancy. +The sentiments with which such objects are indissolubly connected, are +but tendrils clinging round the parent nest, and the wings of the +new-fledged bird, bursting them asunder, it soars out into the world to +contend and battle with its storms. + +One of the least attractive illustrations of this spirit of unrest, is +where it extends to our women, and Miss Belle Boyd's is in our +estimation a case in point. + + "Unknown to her the rigid rule, + The dull restraint, the chiding frown, + The weary torture of the school; + The taming of wild nature down. + Her only lore, the legends told + Around the soldiers' fire; at night + Stars rose and set, and seasons rolled; + Flowers bloomed, and snowflakes fell, + Unquestioned, in her sight!" + +Her career was full of adventure and intrepid daring, and she served the +disloyal cause she espoused faithfully and to the bitter end; and then, +like other wandering stars of the troubled sky, sank into oblivion. From +the time of Miss Boyd's visit until the seventh of May, Willard Glazier +continued to lead the same dull life at Libby Prison. The monotony of +the hours was unbroken by any circumstance more exciting than a visit +from the celebrated partisan chief, Mosby, who is described by Glazier +as a _preux chevalier_, at that time about twenty-eight years of age, in +figure slight, with straight fair hair and closely shaven face, except +that "a faded German moustache overshadowed his upper lip." It does not +appear that he was received as a welcome visitor, although he jocularly +remarked to some of the prisoners who had been captured by his own +troopers that he was "glad to see them there." + +Time! what wonders dost thou work. But a few years have passed, and +Mosby, who was erst so malignant a rebel, that even the poor, but loyal, +prisoners, presented him the cold shoulder, is now a confidential friend +of the late Commander in chief of the Union Army! Longstreet, the rebel +General, again swears by the Star-Spangled Banner; and Beauregard, hero +of Sumter and Bull Run, is now an advocate of perfect equality between +the black and white races in his Southern State of Louisiana! + +The visit of Colonel Mosby was the last memorable incident of our +hero's sojourn in "Libby." Upon the seventh of May following, the +prisoners were removed thence to Danville, Virginia. Several, in the +course of this transit, effected their escape, but the great majority +were safely conveyed to their new place of imprisonment. The change made +no improvement in their unhappy condition. True, the rations furnished +at Danville were of somewhat better quality, and more liberal in +quantity, but the discipline was equally Draconian, and the penalty of +its slightest infraction--death! The chief source of misery among the +captives was want of room, the men being compelled to sleep +"spoon-fashion," and in detachments, many being compelled to stand up +awake while their comrades slept as best they could. + +This condition of things, however, did not last long. Early upon the +morning of the twelfth, the prisoners were once more marched out and +started southward. After a journey of twenty-four hours in cattle cars, +exposed most of the time to a drenching rain, they were disembarked and +tramped another twelve miles to Greensboro. Here the mass of weary, wet, +and hopeless patriots were about to be driven, pell-mell, like a herd of +cattle, into a train of filthy cars, when young Glazier thought he +espied a chance of evading his captors. He waited until it appeared to +him that the guard was sufficiently occupied with other duties to +overlook his whereabouts, and then slipped behind a log, where in an +instant he lay upon the ground apparently fast asleep, trusting in the +confusion attendant upon the departure of the train to escape +observation. But fortune was against him. The only result was the +infliction upon that portion of his body which some mothers consider +the "corrective point" of their children, of sundry unceremonious kicks, +which, coming from such boots as the "C. S. A." at that time supplied to +their soldiers, were felt to be more persuasive than agreeable. Of +course it became necessary to awaken from his profound slumber slowly, +which made the _kicks_ still more persuasive, and by the time he was +erect, the cars were filled and the doors all closed. The guards +therefore insisted upon his effecting an entrance through the small +window, which he did with certain vigorous assistance from behind, and +landed upon the head and shoulders of Lieutenant-Colonel Joselyn, of the +Fifteenth Massachusetts Infantry, who passed him around in such a way +that the other occupants of the car were moved to sundry objurgations at +the expense of our young friend more forcible than polite, and partaking +little of the nature of a hospitable reception! However, this is a world +of compromises, and Glazier soon found his level among his +fellow-captives. + +Their route took them through a portion of North Carolina, where for the +first time they met with unmistakable proofs of sympathy. At one city, +on learning there were "Yankee prisoners" in town, the citizens came out +in large numbers. Many attempted to converse with them, but were forced +back at the point of the bayonet. The prisoners then struck up the +"Star-Spangled Banner," and "Rally Round the Flag," and in each +interlude could see white handkerchiefs waving in the breeze, +demonstrations that so exasperated the Virginia guard that they sent a +detail to drive "the d----d tar-heels" from the field. + +The contiguity of friends of course presented a strong temptation to +some to strike for liberty. Every device promising the least chance +of escape was therefore resorted to. Among the most ingenious of these +was one so graphically described by young Glazier that we make no +apology for again using his language: + +[Illustration: Prison Pen, Macon, Georgia. Tunneling--the +Narrow Path To Freedom.] + +"The night being very dark," he writes, "and the soil where we were +huddled together very sandy and light, many of the prisoners dug holes +in the ground and there buried themselves, hoping thus to escape the +observation of the guard when we should be marched from the field to the +cars. Unfortunately, however, the scheme was exposed by one of the guard +who accidentally stumbled into one of the holes, in the bottom of which +he beheld a 'live Yankee.' Struck with amazement, he shouted out: 'Oh, +my G--, Captain, here is a Yankee buried alive!' Great excitement was +the natural consequence. A general search ensued, torch-lights were +used, and the trees and ground thoroughly inspected. This investigation +brought to light several holes of a similar character, each having +deposited therein a Federal prisoner. The guards were very angry and +went about shouting, 'Run them through! Pick up the d----d hounds!' but +their captain, a good-natured sort of man, stopped all this. 'No,' said +he, 'the d----d Yankees have a right to escape if they can. Let them +alone. I'll risk their getting away from me!'" + +Some of the burrowers did escape, however, and several others hid +themselves in the foliage and were left behind. + +After this nothing eventful occurred upon the way, and on the fifteenth +of the same month, the whole party arrived at Augusta, Georgia, and +found the home guards, to whose custody they were consigned, a bad lot. +From that city they were soon after removed to Macon. Up to this +period, amid all the mortifications of their condition, notwithstanding +their tiresome rides and weary marches; despite the chagrin they +naturally felt when well-laid plans of escape were frustrated by +accidents beyond the power of men to foresee, they still had one source +of consolation--there was at least one drop of balm in Gilead--_for had +they not gotten rid of--Turner!_ + +Judge, then, of their mingled horror and despair when they reached the +front gate of Camp Oglethorpe, their future prison, to find that monster +before them, lounging gracefully against the gate entrance, and +evidently delighted with the idea of being in a condition to shock his +former victims with his presence. + +The laugh, however, was not entirely his, for, upon mustering them, he +discovered that forty-seven had escaped. Smothering his wrath for the +moment, he welcomed the remainder to their prison-house, with the +gratifying intelligence that _it had its dead-line_, and all who +approached it had better be ready to meet the contingencies of a future +state of rewards and punishments! + +After horrifying them with his presence, he shortly took himself off, +and not long afterward, to their great relief, was ordered back to +Richmond. + +Before the week had expired, Glazier had an opportunity of estimating +how _careless_(_?_) some of his custodians were in handling their +firearms, being an eye-witness of an attempt by a sentinel to shoot +Lieutenant Barker, of the First Rhode Island Cavalry. The bullet, kinder +than the boy who sped it on its errand (for this guard was not over +fourteen years of age), passed over the old man's head. As the latter +noted the direction of the lad's aim, and heard the whistle of the +bullet above him, he very temperately asked the somewhat unnecessary +question, "What are you shooting at?" "I am shooting at you, you d----d +old cuss." "What are you shooting at me for?" mildly inquired the +lieutenant. "Because you had your hands on the dead-line," answered the +boy. At this moment the sergeant of the guard came up, and taking the +precocious ruffian by the collar, shook him with considerable energy, +and demanded of him very fiercely, "What the devil are you shooting at +that prisoner for, you little scoundrel?" The boy replied that the +prisoner had his hands on the dead-line. Whereupon the sergeant shook +him again, told him he was a liar--that the lieutenant was not within +twenty feet of the dead-line, and consigned him to the custody of the +corporal of the guard, who marched the young monster away. + +Captain Glazier states that he was within ten feet of the lieutenant +when the shot was fired, and that the latter _was not within thirty feet +of the fatal line_. The incident was not very exhilarating upon the +threshold of his new abode, and the prisoners naturally felt greatly +exasperated when they heard the particulars. + +An order was promulgated next morning by the officer commanding, Captain +W. K. Tabb, directing that "any of their number not in ranks at +roll-call should be shot," which was not calculated to make them think +more kindly of their jailers. The fact is, that the prisoners, in +pursuance of a settled determination to lose no opportunity of escape +that seemed at all feasible, had been again making experiments in +_tunneling_, and this atrocious order was intended as a measure of +precaution against similar schemes in future. + +Thus excluded from the relief afforded by such hopeful occupation, their +poor captives had to find other employment for their leisure hours, and +at this time a kind of religious revival took place among them, and if +human prayer could have effected the destruction of the Confederacy, +that organization would certainly have crumbled into dust forthwith. The +enthusiasm was so great that at times the exercises bordered upon +tumult, and greatly incensed their less fervent guards. At one time a +huge Western man poured forth such a rhapsody in favor of Grant and +Sherman, and garnished it with such pungent denunciations of Jefferson +Davis, and other Confederate magnates, that one of the jailers commented +thus: "D----d smart praying, but it won't do! It won't do!" + +On the morning of the tenth of August, an order from the Confederate War +Department was read before the entire garrison of Camp Oglethorpe, and +caused much excitement. This order directed that a detachment of fifty +prisoners, selected from officers of the highest rank, should be +forwarded to Charleston, in order that they might be placed under the +fire of the siege guns with which the beleaguering Union forces were +attempting the reduction of that city. The order further directed that +Generals Scammon, Wessels, Seymour, Schuyler and Heckman should be +included in the number. The mandate was of course at once executed, and +the departure of the devoted band was the signal for a wild burst of +indignant reprobation of the Confederate authorities. It happened also, +at this time, that one of the sentinels shot and mortally wounded a +prisoner. The victim's name was Otto Grierson, and he had been a general +favorite. The excuse assigned for the murder was that he was +endeavoring to escape, but his comrades declared that at the time the +shot was fired, he was fully sixteen feet from the dead-line, and had +made no attempt to escape. Young Glazier and others joined in a formal +report of the facts to the officer in command, but the only result was +that the murderer received promotion, and was granted a furlough! + +If the statements of Captain Glazier regarding this and other +contemporaneous outrages are to be relied upon (and he is very strongly +corroborated), the officers commanding this military prison sadly abused +their trust. Even the highest of those officials indulged in such petty +exhibitions of puerile spite as to be altogether unworthy of his +station, or even the name of an American. + +On the arrival of the Fourth of July, the prisoners very naturally +determined, as far as their limited resources would permit, to celebrate +the occasion. Accordingly, in true American fashion, a meeting was +called, at which speeches of a patriotic character were made, songs +sung, and a miniature flag, containing the full number of stars and +stripes, which one of their number had concealed about his person, was +produced, and became an object of much interest. Instead of +magnanimously ignoring all this harmless enthusiasm, the commander of +the prison marched in a company of guards and violently dispersed the +meeting! + +On the twenty-seventh of July, six hundred prisoners were counted out, +as they supposed to be added to the others under fire at Charleston, but +really for removal to Camp Davidson, at Savannah, Georgia. + +This change proved for the better. In the first place, in lieu of the +Sahara of shadeless sand and clay of their former prison grounds, they +found at "Davidson" a number of fine oaks, beneath the shade of which +they were permitted to recline in peace. In addition to this, and a +matter of infinitely greater importance, their guards were officered by +_gentlemen_. Captain Glazier states that the authorities here issued +tents, cooking utensils, and decent rations, and adds this tribute to +their generally manly conduct toward the prisoners: "The troops here +have seen service, and there is nothing like the battle-field and the +suffering there experienced to teach soldiers humanity toward each +other. Whenever attempts are made to escape, they give us to understand +that they would do the same themselves, under like circumstances, but +are still compelled to punish such infractions of discipline. They +politely ask our pardon for inspecting our quarters, and in a manner as +gentlemanly as possible, remove our blankets from the floor of our tents +in their search for incipient _tunnels_. All this is very gratifying and +tends to assuage the bitter hatred which former brutality has +engendered. These Georgia boys will be long remembered, and may look for +the utmost kindness and consideration from us if the chances of war ever +reverse our situations." + +This is a record for Georgia nobler far than any she ever gained upon +the battle-field, albeit her sons were always in the van. All honor to +them! Such victories are well worth the winning. + +But pleasant as their Georgia quarters were by comparison with former +experiences, the captives were afflicted with the _malade du pays_--the +home-sickness that tugged at their hearts, and bade them again and +again risk death for the chance of freedom. Tunnel after tunnel was +attempted, and one, constructed by a select band (sworn to secrecy), was +upon the eve of completion, when a straggling cow blundered upon the +frail covering of turf, and became so securely imbedded in the falling +earth that she could not extricate herself. Her bellowing attracted the +attention of the sentinel, the plot was discovered, and, of course, +frustrated. + +Despite such disappointments, however, when the time came, as it soon +did, for the prisoners to leave Savannah, they did so with sentiments of +gratitude for the comparatively humane treatment they had received at +the hands of the Georgians, not unmingled, however, with apprehensions +concerning their future, for it was openly rumored that they were +destined to join their former fellow-prisoners now under fire of +Gilmore's siege guns at Charleston. + + + + +CHAPTER XIX. + + +UNDER FIRE AT CHARLESTON. + + + Under siege.--Charleston Jail.--The Stars and Stripes.--Federal + compliments.--Under the guns.--Roper Hospital.--Yellow + Jack.--Sisters of Charity.--Rebel Christianity.--A Byronic + stanza.--Charleston to Columbia.--"Camp + Sorghum."--Nemesis.--Another dash for liberty.--Murder of + Lieutenants Young and Parker.--Studying topography.--A + vaticination.--Back to reality. + +The next we see of Lieutenant Glazier is in the city of Charleston, +South Carolina, on the twelfth of September, 1864. Coming Street on the +morning of that day was crowded with people of every variety of calling, +from the priest and sister of charity, out on their merciful errands, to +the riff-raff and _sans-culottes_ out on no errand at all but to help +the excitement. The city was under siege. + +At the end of the street a body of six hundred emaciated, +broken-spirited, ragged men, escorted by a strong guard, marched along, +and the busiest of the pedestrians paused to gaze upon them as they +passed. Coarse and scurrilous was the greeting the captives received +from the motley and shameless groups. A few of the more respectable +citizens, however, spoke words of grace to them, and some added hopeful +predictions of the final triumph of the Union cause. The prisoners were +hurried forward to the yard of Charleston Jail, where for the first time +in many weary months they beheld the glorious flag of their country +floating in the breeze over Morris Island. Weak as they were the +patriotic sentiment was still strong within and they gave one rousing +cheer! Some, despite the curses of their guard, dancing like children, +while others wept tears of joy. + +[Illustration: Charleston Jail--charleston, South Carolina.] + +The jail, as Captain Glazier describes it, was a large octagonal +building of four stories, surmounted by a tower. In the rear was a large +workshop, in appearance like a bastile, where some of the prisoners were +confined. As a lugubrious accessory to his own quarters, he had a +remarkably clear view of a gallows, erected directly in front of his +fragment of a tent. "The ground floor of the jail was occupied by +ordinary criminal convicts; the second story by Confederate officers and +soldiers, under punishment for military offences; the third by negro +prisoners, and the fourth by Federal and Confederate deserters, and it +is complimentary to the good sense of the rebels that deserters from +_either_ side were treated by them with equal severity." He gives a sad +account of the terrible condition of the negro soldiers and their +officers who were captured at Fort Wagner, and says the hospital at this +place was "a lazar-house of indescribable misery." + +On the twenty-second of September, Glazier makes the following note on +the progress of the siege: + +"Shelling is kept up vigorously. From sixty to a hundred huge, smoking +two-hundred-pounders convey Federal compliments daily to the doomed +city." + +It appears, however, that, for the most part, the destructive effects of +this bombardment were confined to what was known as the "burnt +district," and caused little damage to the inhabited portion of the +city. + +Seven days after the above entry in his journal his heart was gladdened +by an order for removal, with his fellow-prisoner and messmate, +Lieutenant Richardson, to Roper Hospital; a place much more tolerable as +to its situation and appointments, though still within shell-range of +the bombarding force. Prior to the transfer, a parole was obtained from +each, by which they pledged themselves, while in their new quarters, to +make no attempt to escape. + +Here our prisoner found opportunity under the usual restrictions for +writing the following letter home: + + [Only one page allowed.] + C. S. Military Prison, + Charleston, South Carolina, + Roper Hospital, _October 4th, 1864_. + + My Dear Mother: + + For a long time you have doubtless waited with anxiety some + intelligence of your absent son, which would tell you of his + health, and his prospects of release from the disagreeable + restraints of prison life; and I am now delighted to find this + opportunity of writing to you. Since my last letter, which was + dated at Libby Prison, I have been confined at Danville, Virginia; + Macon and Savannah, Georgia; and at this point. My health for the + most part has been very poor, which I attribute to the inactivity + of prison life. I have also suffered much for want of clothing. I + have a pair of shoes on to-day that I bought more than a year ago; + have run about barefoot for days and weeks during the past summer; + many of my comrades have been compelled to do the same. I do not + look for a _general exchange_ before winter, though I hope and pray + that it may take place to-morrow. There is now an opportunity for + sending boxes to prisoners. I should be glad to receive one from + home if convenient. Please give my love to all the family circle. + Remember me to my friends, and believe me ever + + Your affectionate son, + Willard. + + +The days passed anxiously with Glazier, when the yellow fever began its +inroads upon the prisoners. He had now, at the same moment, to face +death at the hands of man, and by the pestilence--a condition of things +to which the bravest spirit might succumb. One great source of +consolation was derived from the visits of the Sisters of Charity, who +were always found where suffering and peril prevailed. Writing of these +angelic women, Captain Glazier says:--"Confined as we are, so far away +from every home comfort and influence, and from all that makes life +worth living, how quickly do we notice the first kind word, the passing +friendly glance! Can any prisoner confined here ever forget the 'Sisters +of Charity?' Ask the poor private now suffering in the loathsome +hospital so near us, while burning with fever, or racked with pain, if +he can forget the kind look, the gracious word given him by that sister. +Many are the bunches of grapes--many the sip of their pure juice, that +the sufferer gets from her hands. They seem, they _are_ 'ministering +angels;' and while all around us are our avowed enemies, they remain +true to every instinct of womanhood. They dare lift the finger to help, +they do relieve many a sufferer. All through the South our sick and +wounded soldiers have had reason to bless the 'Sisters of Charity.' They +have ministered to their wants and performed those kind womanly offices +which are better to the sick than medicine, and are so peculiarly +soothing to the dying. These noble women have attended their sick-beds +when other _Christian_ ladies of the South looked on unpityingly, and +turned away without even tendering the cheap charity of a kind word. +_They_ have done what others were too scornful and cruel to do--they +have done what others did not dare do. They were, for some inscrutable +reason, permitted to bestow their charities wherever charities were +needed. Their bounties were bestowed indiscriminately on Federal and +Confederate sufferers, and evidenced a broad philanthropy untainted by +party-feeling or religious bigotry. Many a poor soldier has followed +them from ward to ward with tearful eyes.... Were other Christian +denominations in the South as active in aiding us as the Catholics have +been, I might have some faith in 'Rebel Christianity.'" + +This is no mean tribute to the beneficent influences of the Catholic +church, albeit the pen of a Protestant records it; but the facts fully +justify him. Protestant England had _one_--the Church of Rome has her +_legions_ of Florence Nightingales. They are found in the camp, and the +hospital, and the prison--wherever human sympathy can palliate human +suffering; they are to be found where even wives and mothers flee before +the dreaded pestilence, and these ministers of divine love, like light +and air, and the dews of Heaven, visit alike the rich and poor, the +sinner and the saint; the only claim they recognize being the claim of +suffering and misfortune. + +Willard Glazier remained _under the guns_ of his friends until the fifth +of October, and during his sojourn here had various opportunities of +forming an acquaintance with vagrant shot and shell that struck or +exploded near the hospital building, but fortunately did no greater +damage to its inmates than create "a scare." + +What was much more serious was the prevalence of the deadly fever, which +was of a most malignant type, and carried off, among its many victims, +the Confederate commander and his adjutant. The prisoners therefore +were removed--the authorities assigning as their reason for the step, +the "danger to which they would be exposed on account of the fever;" and +although, at the time, it appeared an anomaly to the prisoners, "after +bringing them there to be murdered by their own guns, to remove them for +the purpose of saving them from death in another shape,"--yet it is +possible such was the case. At all events they were removed, and their +"Poet Laureate"--Lieutenant Ogden, of Wisconsin--wrote a farewell poem, +containing among others, the following "Byronic" stanza: + + "Thy Sanctuaries are forsaken now; + Dark mould and moss cling to thy fretted towers; + Deep rents and seams, where struggling lichens grow, + And no sweet voice of prayer at vestal hours; + But voice of screaming shot and bursting shell, + Thy deep damnation and thy doom foretell. + The 'fire' has left a pile of broken walls, + And Night-hags revel in thy ruined halls!" + +Who will say that a dread Nemesis has not overtaken the metropolis of +the Palmetto State? Streets, once the busy scene of commerce and +industry, now covered with grass, in this city of secession--formerly +the head and front of treason and rebellion and the defiant advocate of +human slavery! + +Escorted by the Thirty-second Georgia Volunteers, Glazier and his +fifteen hundred companions were marched through the principal streets of +the city to the depot, where they took the cars for Columbia, the State +capital. None will ever forget the parade of ragged and bearded men +through King Street. But the Georgian guards, while strictly attentive +to duty, showed the politeness and demeanor of gentlemen. He says of +them, at this point in the history of his imprisonment, "the Georgia +troops seem to be by far the most civil and gentlemanly of all the +Southern army. They were the most respectable in appearance, most +intelligent and liberal in conversation, and to a greater extent than +others, recognized the principle that a man is a man under whatever +circumstances he may be placed, and is entitled to humane treatment. +They very generally addressed the prisoners as 'gentlemen.'" + +The same kind of unventilated and filthy cattle-cars were employed in +their transportation as had been used in their various previous +removals. All suffered from want of water, air and space. The arrival of +the captives at Columbia took place in the midst of a drenching +rain-storm, and during the entire night, with scarcely any clothing, no +rations, and no shelter, they were exposed to the merciless elements, +while not twenty yards off, in front of their camping ground, glared the +muzzles of a park of loaded artillery. The prisoners, being in a +starving condition, looked the picture of despair. A discovery however +was made of some bacon suspended to the rafters of the building that +enclosed them, in one corner separated by a partition. As the famished +men looked through the bars of a window and saw this tempting food, +their eyes watered, and their inventive faculties were aroused. Hooks, +strings and poles were brought into requisition, and in a short time +most of the meat, by Yankee talent, was transferred from the rafters of +the building to the stomachs of the prisoners! + +The day following, they were moved to a spot about two miles from the +town, and bivouacked in an open field, without any shelter whatever. +Surrounded by the usual cordon of sentries, and menaced with the +customary "dead-line," they were turned loose to provide for themselves, +neither axe, spade, nor cooking utensils being supplied them. Two days +after their arrival some corn-meal and _sorghum_ were issued, the latter +a substitute for molasses. A great many suffered from diarrhoea and +dysentery in consequence, and the place from this circumstance acquired +the sobriquet of "Camp Sorghum." + +They had no quarters to protect them from the cold November storms, only +huts constructed by themselves of brush and pine boughs. The treatment +at "Camp Sorghum" was so exceptionally brutal, that almost every dark +night starving men would run the guard and risk their lives to escape +dying by inches. Sometimes as many as thirty or forty would run in one +night. Generally some daring fellow would act as _forlorn hope_ and rush +past the sentries, drawing their fire, at the imminent risk of +forfeiting his own life, his comrades joining him before the guards +could reload their rifles. The latter would then fire a volley into the +camp, killing or wounding some of the prisoners. Lieutenant Young, of +the Fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry, was thus shot dead whilst sitting at +his hut, and according to Captain Glazier, "no reason for this atrocity +was apparent, and none was assigned by the guards." The poor young +fellow had been a prisoner twenty-two months. About this time the guards +accidentally killed two of their own men, in their reckless and savage +shooting, and afterwards observed more care in firing at the prisoners. + +Hounds were kept near the prison to track escaped fugitives. Lieutenant +Parker, while attempting to escape, was so much torn and bitten by these +dogs that he died the day after his recapture. + +Mingled with thoughts of home, and the friends gathered around loved +firesides, there had by this time arisen in young Glazier's mind a stern +determination to win his freedom, or, in the effort, forfeit his life. + +As the weather grew colder, the possession of wood became a matter of +necessity, and some of the prisoners were paroled to pass beyond the +lines, and gather such broken branches and pieces of bark in the +neighboring woods as they could carry back into camp. Glazier availed +himself of this privilege, and stored up an abundance of fuel. But a +more important acquisition than fuel to him was the knowledge he +obtained of the topography of the surrounding country. One great +difficulty he foresaw in getting away arose from the sorry condition of +his shoes, which were nearly soleless. He succeeded, however, in +obtaining the rim of an old regulation-hat, and out of this fashioned a +serviceable pair of soles for his worn-out brogans, and thus removed one +obstacle from his path. + +We need feel no surprise that he and many of his companions thought no +risk too great to run for the chance of effecting their escape. Their +treatment by this time had become so bad as to be almost unendurable. +For example, to avoid being frozen to death, they were compelled to run +around all night, and only when the sun arose in the morning dare they +venture to recline themselves on the ground to sleep. The truth is, that +our friend, in common with many of his comrades, had arrived at the +desperate conclusion that no fate, even death by shooting, or by +hounds, could be worse than the misery and suffering he was now +enduring. It was not alone that they were starved and shelterless, sick +and unattended, nearly naked, with no hope of being clad; it was not +alone that they were immersed, day and night, in filth and squalor like +hogs, with no prospect of relief to cheer them; but, in addition to all +this suffering of their own, they were compelled to witness the +sufferings of others--to hear their sighs and groans, and look upon +faces that hard usage and despair had made ghastly and terrible. They +would greet in the morning a man sick and emaciated perhaps, but still a +human being, erect and in God's image, who, in the evening of the same +day, would disappear from among them, making a desperate dash for +freedom. The following day a broken, nerveless, shivering wretch would +be dragged into their midst, blood-stained, faint, and with the gashes +of a blood-hound's teeth covering his face and throat. + +Thus it was that existence became unbearable. Their own sufferings were +hard, but to continue for many long months looking upon the sufferings +of others added to their misery beyond endurance. Accordingly, when +Thanksgiving-day arrived, and the excitement created by Sherman's "march +to the sea" had reached its highest point, Glazier and a +fellow-prisoner, named Lieutenant Lemon, determined that _they_ would +wait no longer the slow process of tunneling, but make a bold effort for +liberty--or die in the attempt. + +"It was customary," says the former, "to extend the guard-line in the +morning for the purpose of allowing prisoners (as previously stated) to +collect fuel on a piece of timbered land just opposite the camp, and it +was our intention this morning to take a shovel, when permitted to pass +to the woods, and make a hole in the ground large enough to receive our +two 'skeletons,' and then enlist the services of some friend, who would +cover us up with brush and leaves, so that, when the guard was +withdrawn, we would be left without the camp." The plan looked feasible, +and, if successful, it would not be a difficult matter to reach Augusta, +Georgia, at which point they hoped to find themselves within Sherman's +lines. The fates, however, decreed otherwise. Their scheme was rendered +abortive by the simple fact, that upon that particular morning, the line +was not extended at all. Why it was not, is purely a matter of +conjecture. Possibly, "the morning being unusually cold and raw," the +guard did not care to leave their own snug tents along the line of the +encampment, with no greater inducement than that of increasing the +comfort of their Yankee prisoners, who, for that day, were left without +any fires at all; but, be this as it may, the guard-line was not +extended as was usual, and thus the plot of our young friends was +frustrated for the time being. They agreed to "watch, pray _and act_" at +the very first opportunity that presented. It was not long before that +opportunity came. + +Early upon the day following that of their disappointment, the +conspirators arranged that each should make a reconnaissance of the +lines, discover the weak points of the enemy, and, that being +accomplished, rendezvous at a given spot, ready to act upon any likely +plan that might suggest itself to them. Glazier had become a tolerably +expert physiognomist, and singled out an unsophisticated-looking +giant, who was patrolling a certain beat, as the best man among the line +of sentries on whom to practise an imposition. This individual was +evidently a good-natured lout, not long in the service, and very much +resembling our conception of "Jonas Chuzzlewit," in respect to his +having been "put away and forgotten for half a century." It is only +necessary to add that his owners "had stuck a musket in his hand, and +placed him on guard." Yet there was some pluck in him. He was just the +sort of man who, led by a good officer, would fight like a lion, but +whose animal instincts had so befogged his intellect that, if left to +his own resources, he would be as likely to ruin friend as foe. + +[Illustration: The Escape From Columbia--crossing The Dead Line.] + +When Glazier rejoined his comrade, he described this man, and the +friends agreed that they would boldly cross the "dead-line" immediately +in front of him, be ready to answer promptly his challenge, and, by the +audacity of their movement, attempt to deceive him in regard to their +real character and purpose. With such a man as they had to deal with, +this scheme was certain to result in one of two things: he would let +them pass, or he would kill them both; therefore, courage and +_sang-froid_ were matters of first necessity. + +Accordingly, with the utmost coolness, and laughing and chatting +together, they sauntered up to and upon the fatal line. The sentinel +looked at them in amazement. He then brought his piece to bear upon +Glazier completely covering his person, and, with the usual order to +"Halt!" added: "Whar in hell are you going, Yanks?" As if his dignity +was seriously offended by this demand, our hero answered this question +by asking another: "Do you halt paroled prisoners here?" "His meek 'No, +sir!'" Glazier relates, "was not yet lost in the distance when I boldly +crossed the dreaded line, adding: 'Then let my friend in the rear follow +me;' and so we passed, while the sentinel murmured 'All right!' And +right it was, for now we were free, breathing the fresh air, untainted +by the breath of hundreds of famishing, diseased and dying men." + +They could not proceed very far without falling in with numbers of the +paroled prisoners. This they did, but their presence excited no +suspicion or comment, as they assumed to belong to the party. They +applied themselves to gathering wood and piling it apparently for +transportation, and gradually crept on and on until they reached a point +beyond the vision of the gray-jackets, when off they started at the top +of their speed; and although before long they were compelled to reduce +their pace, they put several miles behind them in a space of time that +at any other period of their lives, or under any other circumstances, +would have seemed impossible. Pausing to regain breath, they turned, and +_Columbia_ was no longer within sight. This, in itself, was a relief, +for the place was associated in their minds with the intense misery they +had suffered within its boundaries. + +Could these men have _foreseen_ the not very distant future, they would +have known that every sigh and groan that cruelty had wrung from them in +that place of torture would be avenged; they would have seen loyal +soldiers swarming in its streets, their old comrades in misery torn from +the grasp of their merciless jailers, and the soulless "Southern +Chivalry" thrust into their place; they would have seen red-handed +vengeance doom that city of blood to destruction, and the glaring +tongues of fire lap up the costly goods and edifices of its vile and +relentless citizens; and those who had no mercy for them in their +wretchedness and famine, now awe-struck on finding that the men they had +so barbarously trampled upon had now the power and the will to retort +upon them with interest; they would have seen brothers in arms, who +until now had been merciful to their enemies when in their power, +suddenly transformed into ravenous wolves, fierce and terrible in their +righteous wrath at the treatment their less fortunate brothers had met +with in this city of blood. The Avenger had come! and not one house but +would fall a smouldering heap of ruins. They would have foreseen this +city ablaze with burning homes for its sins against humanity; its men, +so lately drunk with pride and satiated with cruelty to their +countrymen; its women divested of all womanly attributes, and invested +with those of demons, _now_ all cowed and humbled in the dust! They +would have seen one noted instance of the interference of a just +Providence that occurred amid all this dreadful saturnalia--a woman, +pale, but beautiful of feature, delicate of form, madly rushing to and +fro in front of her blazing house, crying for her child that lay within +it. They would have seen a poor, emaciated prisoner, roused to exhibit +strength and courage by the hope of saving life, rush in and drag the +cradle and its innocent living freight from the very jaws of death, +while burning rafters crashed and fell upon him; they would have seen +him place the babe in its mother's arms, and they would have seen that +mother turn with streaming eyes to thank the saviour of her child, _and +then start back conscience-smitten, and scream and fall, seeing in her +child's preserver a man who in the prison had once implored her for a +piece of bread because he was starving, and she spat upon him because he +was of Northern race_!! Could they have seen the future of the coming +months, they would have seen all this and more. But no such prevision +was vouchsafed them. Their thoughts were now of themselves. They felt +that the shade of a deadly peril encompassed them. Columbia and its +prison were hidden from their sight, but still they were so near that at +any moment the hounds might scent them, and if recaptured, all the +horrors they had undergone would be light compared with the fate they +must submit to in the future. + +Fortunately for the purpose of our fugitives, the settlements, whether +towns or villages, in that part of the country, were "few and far +between." The residences of the planters were also distant from each +other and few in number, and the ravines and swamps which abound there, +while in many respects disagreeable and dangerous lurking spots, were +still the safest refuges for hunted men. The wilder the country, the +better it promised to Glazier and his comrade fleeing for their lives. +Their greatest fear was the dreaded blood-hound. Our friends knew they +could defeat most of the devices of human ingenuity in tracking them, +but they were apprehensive that the instinct of the brutes, which a +depraved humanity had enlisted in its service, might render abortive all +their plans and precautions. They did their best, however, to baffle +their canine foes, and nightfall found them hurrying forward on the +Lexington Court-house Road. + + + + +CHAPTER XX. + + +THE ESCAPE FROM COLUMBIA. + + + Mysterious voices.--"I reckon deys Yankees."--"Who comes + there?"--The Lady of the Manor.--A weird spectacle.--The struggle + through the swamp.--A reflection on Southern swamps in + general.-"Tired nature's sweet restorer." + +The attention of the fugitives was suddenly arrested by the sound of +human voices in their immediate rear. It occurred to both at once to +discover as quickly as possible if the speakers were white or black, and +they accordingly listened in the hope of learning their color by their +dialect. This was by no means easy, the vernacular of the poorer class +of whites in that section of the country very much resembling the +ordinary dialect of the negroes. The comrades, however, concluded to +risk a halt until the strangers came up. Glazier then saluted them with +the remark that it was "a pleasant night," with the view of drawing them +out before committing himself. "Indeed 'tis!" was the reply. This failed +to convey the desired information as to the color of the strangers, and +they thought it wiser to hurry forward than prolong the conversation at +some risk to their safety. Before they had advanced many steps, however, +they were agreeably surprised by hearing one of the same party remark to +another, "I reckon deys Yankees," followed by the response, "Golly, I +hope to God dey is!" Glazier immediately turned and inquired, "Do you +know who I am?" "I reckon I dunno yer, massa," was the reply. "Have you +ever seen a Yankee?" asked Glazier. "Lord bress yer, marser, I've seen a +right smart heap ov um down at Clumby." "Well," said Glazier, "do we +look like them?" "How'n de debbil can I tell dat in de dark, marser?" +answered the now unmistakable negro, "but I spec' yer talk jest like' +em." "We are Yankees," responded Glazier, "and have just escaped from +Columbia. My good fellow, can't you do something for us?" "Ob course!" +said our colored friend, promptly. "I'll do all I can for you, marster. +I no nigga if I didn't 'sist de Yankees." + +[Illustration: The Escape--fed By Negroes In A Swamp.] + +The fugitives had heard so much from their fellow-prisoners of the +sympathy exhibited by the colored people of the South for Federal +soldiers, that they hesitated not for a moment to place the fullest +confidence in these humble friends. They thereupon explained their +precise situation, and told them the story of their recent escape. They +also learned from the negroes that they were returning to their masters, +having come from Columbia, where they had been working upon a new prison +stockade, now abandoned on account of the expected approach of General +Sherman. + +The name of their "Master" was Steadman, and, slave-fashion, one of the +men was named "Ben Steadman." They were directing their steps to Mr. +Steadman's plantation on the Augusta Road, and the fugitives therefore +decided to keep in their company and use them as guides. In the nature +of things, unless guided by some one accustomed to traveling in a +country so bare of landmarks, they would lose ground continually, even +if they ever reached their destination. + +One of the negroes with that shrewdness engendered by slavery, in which +cunning is the only protection against injury; and strength and courage +count for nothing; suggested that so large a party would attract +attention, and the safety of the two officers might be endangered. It +was therefore finally determined that Ben should act as guide, and the +other darkies take a different route home. Another advantage to be +derived from dividing the party was that in the event of the fugitives +being pursued, the double trail would mystify the hounds. Ere long Ben +reached a bridle-path, which plunged into the wood, and as it offered +superior advantages on account of its narrowness and privacy, and from +the fact of its leading to the plantation of a well-known planter and +therefore less likely to be suspected of being the road taken by escaped +prisoners, the little party concluded that this was their safest route. +They therefore hurried forward upon their way, Ben preceding them in the +double capacity of guide and scout. A few miles from its commencement +this path led to a blind road, which Ben informed them was seldom +traveled by any in the night-time but men of his own race, so they +turned into it, and had become quite joyful and careless, when suddenly +the challenge, "Who goes there?" rang out in the stillness, and the next +moment Ben was halted by the sentry of a Confederate picket consisting +of eight men, who had bivouacked just off the road. Ben boldly advanced, +and our two friends, it must be admitted, with more discretion than +valor, started off like lightning, their "guide" meanwhile amusing the +guard with a description of how "Dem two oder dam niggas got skeered, +kase dey thought Mars Sentinel must be a dam Yank!" + +No harm could come to Ben, as he was in a condition to prove that two +other negroes had left Columbia with him, and the fugitives therefore +feeling that _he_ was safe, concealed themselves among the brush and +awaited events. Ben shortly passed their place of hiding, in custody, +_en route_ to the Reserve, and our friends were not a little amused, +despite their danger, to hear Ben's vigorous denunciation of "dem two +cowardly niggas," who had taken to their heels! + +A few moments only elapsed before they were made aware, by certain +unmistakable tokens, that they were in dangerous proximity to the +Confederate encampment, and although nearly famished, for they had eaten +nothing since morning, it was deemed safest to lie _perdu_; so, thanking +the good Providence which had sped them thus far on their journey, they +lay down and slept. + +The enemy's camp, which upon closer inspection, turned out to be simply +the resting-place of a local patrol, unconnected with any regular +command, broke up early in the morning, and Glazier and his companion +once more had a clear road. Although hungry from long fasting, they ran +swiftly over the swampy ground, and felt so elated to find themselves +again in a state of freedom, that they laughed and joked like boys +released from school, and pushed on until the verge of an extensive +morass was reached and passed, and they found themselves in a section of +country well wooded and watered, the alternate hills and vales +presenting a pleasing variety to the eye. + +[Illustration: Pursuit Of Knowledge Under Difficulties.] + +There was here also a public road, but it would have been dangerous to +travel thereon, and they therefore strode on beneath the trees and +umbrageous undergrowth of the wood. Having had no breakfast, +"blueberries" were not precisely the diet they would have selected for +dinner, but as _necessitas non habet leges_, they quietly munched their +berries, and we may hope felt grateful that matters were no worse. After +a while they made a sudden detour, crossing the high-road, and by so +doing, again broke the trail. Next they came to a clearing, but the +sight of a planter leaning against a fence, soon sent them back to the +friendly shelter of the wood. Late in the afternoon they came to a large +plantation on the border of which was a copse, in which they lay down +and watched for the opportunity of communicating with some of the house +slaves. At the expiration of about an hour, a lady, probably the +mistress of the estate, passed within a few yards of them, accompanied +by a troupe of merry children. They however went on their way, utterly +unconscious of the close proximity of two terrible Yankees! + +Here our fugitives remained quietly concealed until night, and then +cautiously crept away. They proceeded onward until they found themselves +near a junction of cross-roads. Arrived at this junction, matters looked +serious. Unlike mariners, they had no compass; unlike Indians, they were +inexpert at discerning a trail; and what was more appalling, they +distinctly saw reared up against the moonlit sky--a gallows! Our two +friends approached this object very cautiously. It was not an unusual +thing to hang spies, and not unfrequently those _mistaken_ for spies, +but to hang them on a regularly constructed gibbet was not usual; and +therefore while Lemon insisted that the black and skeleton-like object +that loomed against the horizon was a gallows, he still entertained some +doubt upon the subject, and determined to satisfy himself by a closer +inspection. + +The weird object before them proved to be an innocent guide-board--the +article of all others they most needed at that moment. Like the +celebrated laws of Nero, however, the _directions_ were posted very +high, but Lemon being tall, our hero mounted on his shoulders and by the +light of the moon deciphered the inscription. They had now no difficulty +in choosing their way. On they pushed therefore; and during the black +darkness of the night, crept through the tangled underwood, and over +swamps where loathsome, crawling things that shun by day the presence of +man, now seemed to seek his acquaintance. How mysterious are these dense +untrodden forests of the South! The very air one breathes is living. +Throughout the day a million chirping, whirring, twittering sounds, +salute the ear. The short grass beneath the forest trees moves, writhes, +and creeps with microscopic life, until the brain grows dizzy at the +sight. At night it is no less marvellous to hear the myriad denizens of +the swamps and woods; and terrible when your tread on some soft, velvety +substance reveals a sleeping snake, who, at the same moment, attacks you +with his poisonous fang, mayhap, fatally. + +It is a singular, but well-accredited fact, that these great Southern +swamps have been yearly deteriorating, while the surrounding country has +been growing in civilization. Old writers tell us that the reptile life +now infesting them in such rank luxuriance had scarcely any existence +one hundred years ago. Colonel Byrd writes of the "Dismal Swamp:" "Since +the surveyors have entered the Dismal Swamp they have seen no living +creature; neither bird, beast, insect nor reptile, came to view. Not +even a turkey-buzzard will venture to fly over it, no more than the +Italian vulture will venture to fly over the filthy lake of Avernus; or +the birds of the Holy Land over the Salt Sea where Sodom and Gomorrah +once stood." And yet, in the present day, insect and reptile life swarms +there in every form through all the hours of the day and night! + +Our fugitive friends, however, felt little inclination to philosophize +upon this subject. The hope of coming liberty strengthened their limbs, +and they bent all their energy to the task of moving forward; walking, +running, creeping, until the dawn of day approached, when weary and +footsore they sought some secure spot and lay down and slept--perchance +to dream of "Home, sweet Home"--perchance of "Camp Sorghum," and its +"chivalric" guards--perchance of the dreadful blood-hounds whose fatal +scent might even then be on their trail! + + + + +CHAPTER XXI. + + +LOYALTY OF THE NEGROES. + + + Startled by hounds.--An unpleasant predicament.--A Christian + gentlewoman.--Appeal to Mrs. Colonel Taylor.--"She did all she + could."--A meal fit for the gods.--Aunt Katy.--"Lor' bress ye, + marsters!"--Uncle Zeb's prayer.--Hoe-cake and pinders.--Woodcraft + _versus_ astronomy.--Canine foes.--Characteristics of the + slave.--Meeting escaped prisoners.--Danger.--Retreat and + concealment. + +It is the morning of November twenty-eighth, 1864. The sun has just +risen above the eastern hills, and his slanting beams fall upon the +goodly heritage of Colonel Alexander Taylor, "C. S. A." There are, as +yet, none of the usual features here of a war-stricken country; +everything around is rich and substantial. The residence is a stately +mansion in the Elizabethan style, and the lady who, accompanied by two +sweet children, walks the broad piazza, is evidently a refined +gentlewoman. The colonel himself, like a gallant (but mistaken) knight, +has "gone to the wars." + +She marvels what makes "Rupert," a noble hound, that but a moment ago +stretched himself at full length across the hallway, rise and bound over +the lawn, barking loudly and fiercely as he runs. She calls him--at +first gently, and then peremptorily, until the old hound with evident +reluctance obeys the summons, and crouches at her feet. She then directs +a negro, whose tokens of age and long service are as pronounced as those +of his canine rival, to find out what there is in the clump of trees +beyond the north hedge, to excite "Rupert's" anger. The venerable negro, +with the deliberateness of his race, proceeds in the direction +indicated, but is saved the necessity of much exertion, by the startling +appearance of a young soldier in a motley uniform of gray and blue--his +coat of one color--his nether garments of another! He advances boldly +toward the house, and the lady scrutinizes the intruder. The result of +her examination shows her visitor to be a slight, but sinewy young man, +with a frank and honest expression, and seemingly not more than eighteen +years of age. The motley stranger drew near, and bowing gracefully +saluted her with, "Good-morning, madam." + +The lady at once returned the salutation with a genial smile, that sent +a thrill of pleasure and confidence to his heart. Without further +ceremony he thereupon frankly and fearlessly informed Mrs. Taylor that +he and his companion were escaped Union prisoners; that they were in a +condition of starvation; and appealed respectfully but most urgently to +her as a woman, for humanity's sake, to assist them in their sore need +by giving them food. She at first hesitated, startled by such a request +from such a source. Her husband, she said, was an officer in the +Confederate service, and if it became known that she had assisted those +whom his government counted enemies, it would possibly bring reproach +upon him. Our young hero (for he it was) then addressed her somewhat +after the fashion of the unfortunate Ulysses in his appeal to the +goddess Calypso; recounted his misfortunes briefly, touched on the +terrible fate that awaited him and his companion, should they be +recaptured, and all doubtless in such moving terms that, like +Desdemona, the lady must have thought, if she did not exclaim: + + "'Twas pitiful--'twas wondrous pitiful!" + +This is evident from the fact that she scarcely awaited the end of his +story, before assuring him that "she would do all she could," following +up that assurance in a few moments by offering the manly and polite +youth before her an abundant supply of fresh and excellent food; which, +she took the precaution of adding, was for himself and his comrade, +fearing possibly, from Glazier's famished look, he might consume it all +himself! She further assured her visitor that she would keep the secret +of his having been there; while he, in return, protested that should the +varying fortunes of war give him the opportunity of serving her husband, +he would do so at the risk of his life. With his haversack amply +replenished, an appetite like a wolf, faith in the goodness of God +strengthened, and belief in the perfection of some, at least, of the +fairest portion of creation greatly confirmed by this interview, he +rejoined Lieutenant Lemon, and the comrades proceeded forthwith to their +meal which was enjoyed with a zest known only to the starving. Before +reclining himself under the glittering stars, Glazier made this entry in +his diary: "Oh! ye who sleep on beds of down, in your curtained +chambers, and rise at your leisure to feast upon the good things +provided ... you never knew the luxury of a night of _rest_, nor the +sweets of a meal seasoned by hunger, and the grateful remembrance that +it was provided by woman's kindly heart, which, wherever it may beat, +sooner or later responds to the tale of misfortune." + +After a sleep so profound as to extend several hours beyond the time +they had agreed upon as best adapted for the resumption of their +journey, they found themselves much refreshed and strengthened, so much +so that by sunrise they had reached a small stream known as Black Creek, +one of the tributaries of the North Edisto River. Here, in crossing a +bridge, they very opportunely encountered a colored laborer, who was on +his way to work, and who cheerfully turned aside to guide them to a hut, +where he assured them they could remain in safety throughout the day. +The proprietor of this refuge for hunted wayfarers was a certain "Aunt +Katy"--an aged negress, whose heart and hut, and such fare as her scanty +larder contained, were always at the disposal of the distressed. Hearing +that the strangers were Union soldiers who had escaped from Columbia, +she approached them with the following salutation: "Gor A'mighty bress +yer, marsters; dis is de yeah ob jubilee, shua, when de Yankees come to +Aunt Katy's. Come in, marsters, come in!" + +Accordingly they entered, and, by some occult process, the fact of their +presence soon became known to the entire slave population of the +neighborhood, who came flocking in throughout the day. Such an important +occasion would have been incomplete without a prayer-meeting, Aunt Katy +herself being a pillar of the Colored Methodist Church, and it was not +long before the whole assemblage were on their knees, invoking every +imaginable blessing upon the cause of the Union and its defenders, and +every evil upon its opponents. Among other things Captain Glazier +records, as a feature of this impromptu prayer-meeting, is the petition +of a venerable prototype of "Uncle Tom," named Zebulon, "who appeared +to be a ruling spirit in the party." This good man's enthusiasm burst +forth as follows: + +"Oh Lor' Gor A'mighty! We'se you-ah chillen as much as de white folks +am, and we spec yo to heah us widout delay, Lor'; cause we all is in +right smart ob a hurry. Dese yere gemmen has runned away from de +Seceshers, and wants ter git back to de Norf! Dey has no time to wait! +Ef it's 'cordin' to de des'nation of great heben to help 'em et'll be +'bout necessary for dat ar help to come right soon. + +"De hounds and de rebels is on dar track. Take de smell out ob de dogs' +noses, O Lor'! and let 'Gypshun darkness come down ober de eyesights ob +de rebels. Comfoozle 'em, O Lor'! dey is cruel, and makes haste to shed +blood. Dey has long 'pressed de black man, and groun' him in de dust, +and now I reck'n dey 'spects dat dey am agwine to serve de Yankees in de +same way. + +"'Sist dese gemmen in time ob trouble, and lift 'em fru all danger on to +de udder side ob Jordan dry-shod. + +"And raise de radiance ob your face on all de Yankees what's shut up in +de Souf. Send some Moses, O Lor'! to guide 'em frue de Red Sea ob +'flickshun into de promised land. + +"Send Mr. Sherman's company sweepin' down frue dese yere parts to scare +de rebels till dey flee like de Midians, and slew darselves to sabe dar +lives. + +"Let a little de best of heben's best judgments res' on Massa Lincum, +and may de year ob Jubilee come sure. + +"O Lor'! bless de gin'rals ob de Norf--O Lor'! bless de kunnels--O Lor'! +bless de brigerdeers--O Lor'! bless de capt'ins--O Lor'! bless de +Yankees right smart. O Lor'! eberlastin'. Amen." + +[Illustration: Uncle Zeb's Prayer.] + +This very pertinent supplication and much more in the same vein, was +listened to with marked approval by the audience--a sonorous and +prolonged "Amen!" in which our friends heartily participated, greeting +the conclusion of Uncle Zeb's prayer. Our subject, in describing the +particulars of his escape, remarks that, notwithstanding the fact that +the secret of their retreat was known to some thirty or forty of these +poor slaves, neither he nor his companion entertained the shadow of a +doubt that the secret would be safe with them; and adds that, in +addition to their good faith, they possessed a remarkable talent for +concealment. + +The Steadman plantation was only three miles from Aunt Katy's hut, and +accordingly, Ben being sent for, soon made his appearance, and proffered +his valuable services as guide. The offer was thankfully accepted; but, +despite the preference of Glazier and his companion for the swamp as the +safest place of concealment, Ben prevailed upon them to visit his cabin, +where they were hospitably entertained by his wife and children. Having +been duly inspected as curiosities "from de Norf," our friends were +pleased to hear Ben instruct his little daughter to run up to the house +of his mistress and "snatch a paper." She soon afterward came running +back with the Augusta _Constitutionalist_, published that morning. + +Having gathered from the newspaper a sufficiently intelligible idea of +the relative position of Sherman and his opponents, the fugitives bade +farewell to the family, and proceeded upon their way, crossing the river +by ten o'clock; and shortly after--Ben having parted from them--in +consequence of the complicated directions of numerous _blind-roads_, +they became confused, and, instead of pushing forward beyond the South +Edisto, as they had planned to do, halted early in the afternoon and +"pitched their tent" for the remainder of the day and night--said _tent_ +having the sky for its roof as usual. + +Their camping-ground upon this occasion was in the heart of a dense pine +wood, where, notwithstanding the grim and spectral surroundings, they +slept soundly until after midnight, and then arose refreshed and ready +for another day's march on the road to freedom. Hoe-cake and pinders +(_anglice_, peanuts) formed their only repast, which they found +sufficiently luxurious under the circumstances. + +It now became necessary to find their bearings. There was no star +plainly visible, and they had not yet learned to take the moon as a +guide. Moreover, the heavenly bodies in Southern latitudes have so +different an appearance from those seen at the North, that they were +frequently in doubt as to the points of the compass. "I remember," +writes Captain Glazier, "that it caused me great grief to find that the +North Star was much nearer the horizon, and seemed to have lost that +prominence which is given to it in higher latitudes, where it is a +guide, standing far above tree-top and mountain." + +What the lofty stars failed to teach, however, they learned from humbler +signs. Glazier, in his youth, acquired the lesson in woodcraft, that +moss hangs heaviest upon the northern side of tree trunks; and then the +streams in this part of the continent, for the most part, flow towards +the southeast, so that our friends were not altogether without +indications of their position with regard to the points of the compass. + +They were greatly annoyed by a serious obstacle to their safe progress, +which presented itself in the shape of a vast multitude of dogs, of all +sizes and every variety of breed. There were dogs of high degree, dogs +of low degree, and mongrel curs of no degree; and all these animals in +common were in possession of one ambition, namely, to nose out and hunt +a Yankee! + +Consequently, from the deep-mouthed baying of the blood-hound, or the +mastiff, to the sniff and snarl of the rat-terrier, their music was not +agreeable to the fugitives, who had, however, to contend with this +difficulty, and surmount it. + +Confining themselves to the pathless forest, the roads were now +frequently lost sight of for miles. Occasionally, in the effort to shun +the high-road, they would come suddenly upon a dwelling, and the +inevitable lank, yellow dog would pounce out upon them, and add wings to +their feet. + +It was always a pleasant interruption of their lonely tramp to meet any +negroes. These people, so patient under oppression, so humble under +correction, were ever faithful and devoted to those whom they believed +to be the friends of their race. Our hero, of course, had rare +opportunities of observing the characteristics of this people. Simple, +harmless and gentle, crimes of violence among them were very rare, and +the cruelties practised upon them seem rather to have opened their +hearts to sympathy than to have hardened them into vindictiveness. + +With the aid of many of these devoted people, Glazier and his friend +reached and crossed the North Edisto, the latter a task of some +magnitude. The river, at the point where they reached it, is not a +single stream, but a maze of creeks and bayous, all of which it was +necessary to cross in order to attain the opposite bank of what is known +as the South Edisto River. + +While passing over a bridge that spanned one of the creeks, Glazier +heard footsteps upon another bridge in their rear; and so trained and +acute does the ear of man become when disciplined in such a school of +perilous experiences, that he knew at once they had nothing to fear from +those who followed; for, instead of the bold, firm tread of the man who +hunts, it was the uncertain, hesitating, half-halting step of the +hunted. + +"Escaped prisoners," whispered our two friends simultaneously, and +Glazier, stepping boldly forth, gave the challenge, "Who goes there!" + +"With a trembling start," says our fugitive hero, "the foremost man +replied, 'Friends!' + +"'Halt, friends! and advance one,'" commanded Lieutenant Glazier. + +Very cautiously, and with the manner of one ready to turn at any moment +and dash into the recesses of the swamp, one of the strangers came +forward to within a few feet of his interrogator, and craning his body +over, peered nervously into his face. Thereupon a mutual recognition as +Federals was the result, and Lemon discovered that one of the new comers +had been a fellow-prisoner with himself. This made matters pleasant, and +although it was mutually agreed that it would be wise to separate, and +take different routes, both parties unconsciously protracted the meeting +until they were startled into caution by perceiving almost directly in +front of them, surrounding a large fire, a Confederate encampment. "It +proved to be a squad of tax-gatherers, going about the country with +quartermasters' wagons, collecting supplies." + +Further progress was now impossible. The enemy occupied the only +practicable road in front, and they were flanked on both sides by large +ponds of water. Our party thereupon stealthily retreated into the woods, +where they finally concluded to make themselves contented for the +remainder of the night. + + + + +CHAPTER XXII. + + +PROGRESS OF THE FUGITIVES. + + + Parting company.--Thirst and no water.--Hoping for the end.--The + boy and the chicken.--Conversation of ladies overheard.--The + fugitives pursued.--The sleeping village.--Captain Bryant.--The + _alba sus._--Justifiable murder, and a delicious meal.--Darkies + and their prayers.--Man proposes; God disposes.--An + adventure.--_A ruse de guerre._--Across the Savannah. + +On emerging from their place of concealment, the following morning, the +road proved to be once more open. The tax-collectors had departed. +Warned by the experience of the previous night the newly found friends +reluctantly parted company, Glazier and Lemon pursuing a separate route +from the others. + +Our friends had suffered much in various ways since they shook the dust +of Columbia from their feet, but now a dire misfortune overtook them in +the total absence of water. The waters of the swamps were poisonous, and +their longing desire and hope was that they might soon come upon a +spring or stream to slake their burning thirst, which threatened to +unfit them for the exertion necessary. + +The land, in the region of country they had now entered, was waste and +arid--for the most part sand, a few stunted trees being the sole +vegetation. These trees had nothing pleasant in their appearance, as +forest trees usually have. The branches seemed destitute of sap, as the +leaves were of verdure; they had not reached maturity, and yet +possessed none of the lithe grace of saplings. + +Our fugitives were parched, fevered, and weak before they emerged from +this inhospitable tract of country, but at length reached a point where +the vegetation was fresher, and finally, to their great joy, discovered +a spring. Here, to use Glazier's own words, they realized "the value of +cold water to a thirsty soul." "The stream ran through a ravine nearly a +hundred feet in depth, while high up on the banks were groves of pines." + +After their passage through the "Desert," they were in excellent +condition to appreciate the wild and solemn grandeur of the spot they +had now reached, and for a considerable time they could not make up +their minds to leave the place. At length, however, they resumed their +journey. December second found the two friends still far from their +destination, and by no means out of danger. It was one week only since +they bade adieu to Columbia, and yet many weeks seemed to them to have +passed. Still they were making considerable progress, and had by this +time reached a swamp near Aiken, South Carolina. + +Having journeyed all night since quitting the secluded ravine, they were +ready once more to cast themselves upon the soft moss under a venerable +tree, near which was a bubbling spring. Here they slept soundly until +dawn, when a colored boy passing down a road which came within their +range of vision, attracted attention. The boy was carrying a basket, and +they were suffering very seriously again from hunger. Lemon followed, +and called to him: "Hold on, my boy; I want to see you!" The lad +muttered something, but the only word they could distinguish was +"chicken!" He then ran off as fast as his legs would carry him. The +lieutenant, with great emphasis, endeavored to reassure him, but it was +of no use. He ran as if a legion of evil spirits was at his heels, and +Lemon returned to his comrade very much disappointed and chagrined. "Now +they are sure to overtake us," said he, "we shall be prisoners again +before night!" + +"Never fear," was the reply of his cooler companion; "as long as there +is a swamp in the neighborhood, we'll lead them a lively dance." + +So the friends gathered up their belongings, and in a few minutes put a +considerable distance between themselves and their resting-place of the +preceding night. Finally they concealed themselves in a swamp about a +mile distant. A road bordered the margin of their sanctuary so closely, +that they distinctly overheard a conversation between three ladies who +passed. The chasing of a negro boy by a Yankee was the topic of their +discourse. + +This information made our friends more cautious, and it is well they +were so, for, towards evening, several mounted men armed with guns were +seen by them upon the main road leading to Aiken; their evident purpose +being to intercept the fugitives, of whose presence in their +neighborhood the boy had made report. + +Forewarned was forearmed, and our hero and his companion determined to +give the enemy a wide berth. Again, therefore, plunging into the +recesses of a neighboring swamp, they went quietly to sleep, and slept +until midnight, when Glazier awoke to see thousands of stars glittering +through the spectral branches of the pines, and away off toward the +western horizon, a flood of silvery effulgence from the waning moon. + +Entranced by the beauty of the scene, he awoke his comrade, and all +around being buried in profound silence, they proceeded on their way. It +was not long before they found themselves upon the outskirts of the +village of Aiken, and no practicable path upon either side presenting +itself, but one resource remained, namely, to steal cautiously through, +although this involved the imminent risk of discovery. On, therefore, +they walked until they came to the border of the village. They found it +dumb with sleep. Not a sound disturbed the silence. The very dogs, their +usually sleepless foes, appeared for once to have become wearied and +gone to rest. + +There is something solemn about a sleeping town. The solitude of the +swamp and wood is solemn; but the ghostly stillness of a town, where all +its inhabitants lie buried in sleep, and no sign or sound proclaims the +presence of life in man or beast, is of so weird a character as to +produce a sensation of awe, akin to fear. The shadows that enwrapped +them as they came beneath the buildings, and the fitful gleams of +moonlight that fell upon them when streets were crossed, seemed not +lights and shadows at all, but strange, intangible things. And when at +length they reached the outer limit of the village, and the distant +woods were seen by the moon's rays, our travellers felt as if they had +been wandering in a graveyard, where the tombs were houses, and they +wished they were in the swamp again, where such uncanny fancies never +troubled them. When the toad and lizard, snakes and other loathsome +things, crawled around their swampy bed, they cared nothing; but the +dead silence of a cloudless night, brooding over a swarm of their +fellow-beings, brought with it a feeling they could not account for or +understand; and therefore it was with a sense of great relief they found +themselves at the outer edge of the town. + +Their satisfaction, however, was somewhat moderated when, at a sudden +turn of the road, they abruptly came upon a man and a boy, who were +picking their way with such velvety tread that the two parties were face +to face before either was aware of the proximity of the other. The +strangers appeared to be the more alarmed, for they were just making a +secret and rapid detour with the view of debouching into a side street, +when, feeling sure that none but fugitives would be so anxious to escape +an interview, Glazier hailed them: + +"Don't be uneasy, boys! We're friends! We're Yankees!" + +His conjecture proved correct. The strangers were Captain Bryant, of the +Fifth New York Cavalry, and a friend. "They had," says Captain Glazier, +"a negro guide, who was to secrete them in a hut until the next night, +when they were to proceed, as we had done, and reach the line of freedom +by the nearest route." + +The interview was brief, the parties differing as to which was the most +expedient route, and the discussion terminated by each taking the one he +thought best. Glazier and his comrade made off to a swamp, and upon +securing a safe resting-place, were overjoyed to find a venerable sow +and her litter approaching. They greeted the porcine mother, says our +friend, "otherwise than did wandering Aeneas the _alba sus_ lying under +the hollow trees of ancient Italy," for, "enticing them with crumbs of +hoe-cake," they both in unison struck a juvenile porker on the head with +a heavy stick, and a mammoth knife, the gift of Uncle Zeb, came into +requisition, and did good service. Over the embers of a fire kindled in +a hole in the ground, they roasted the little fellow, and made a +delicious meal. + +They had scarcely finished their unexpected feast, when the thud of an +axe in the distance smote on their ears, and Glazier crept cautiously +out to reconnoitre. The wood-cutter proved to be a colored lad, and +having a vivid recollection of their scampering friend of "chicken" +fame, he hailed him in this wise: "Hello, Sambo!" + +This manner of salute left the party addressed, in doubt as to the +colors under which the young white stranger served. Off went his hat, +therefore, and he stood grinning and waiting to hear more. Our hero +walked quickly up to him, and frankly explained the situation, +concluding, as usual, with a request for information and aid. Both were +promptly tendered, and shortly after, the fugitives were concealed in a +corn-fodder house. Here, in the evening, a motley and humorous +delegation of darkies waited upon them and after ventilating their sage +opinions upon the conduct of the war, organized a prayer-meeting; and, +if the fervor of human prayer availeth, they doubtless damaged the cause +of Secession materially that evening. + +The topographical knowledge of these well-meaning friends appears to +have been at fault for had Glazier followed the route they advised, +instead of striking the railroad running from Charleston to Augusta, on +the west side of Aiken, which would have enabled them, by pursuing it to +the westward, to reach Augusta, they would have struck it on the east +side, and consequently by mistake have followed it towards Charleston, +precisely the place to which they did _not_ want to go. + +"How far is it, my boy, by this road, to Drainside?" asked a +mud-splashed traveler of a shrewd lad by the roadside. + +"If you keep on the way you are heading, and can manage the Atlantic and +Pacific on horseback," replied the boy, "it is 23,999 miles. If you turn +your horse's head and go right back, it is one mile." + +Our friends were in a somewhat similar condition. Soon, however, in the +darkness, they came to a small village, where a freight train was in +waiting for an early start. They tried to conceal themselves on board +this train, but very fortunately for their safety they could not find a +hiding-place in or under the cars, and shortly afterwards discovered +that Charleston was its destination and not Augusta. Had they boarded +this train they would certainly have been recaptured in Charleston and +sent back to imprisonment. "A merciful Providence interposed," Glazier +writes. "Thus 'man proposes,' often to his own ruin, but 'God disposes,' +always to His own glory, and the good of his creatures." + +A blood-hound was on their track in the course of the night, the deep +bayings being plainly audible, but his scent being at fault, the trail +of the fugitives was lost, and he shortly barked himself out of hearing. + +When daybreak came and a passenger train filled with rebel soldiers and +recruits swept past them, setting up a savage yell at sight of the +pedestrians, it was feared by the latter that the train might be stopped +with a view to their capture, so they once more concealed themselves in +the wood. + +The sound of heavy cannonading reassured them as to the proximity of +Federal troops; but, where was Augusta? Accurate information on this +point was absolutely essential before further progress was made; and +Lemon was commissioned to obtain it. He was so far successful that he +learned from some negro wood-choppers--much to the chagrin of both--that +they had been walking all night in the opposite direction from Augusta, +that is, on the direct road to Charleston! They also learned, what was +much more cheering, that they could cross the Savannah River, at a point +twenty miles below Augusta, at Point Comfort; that Sherman was making +straight for Savannah, and therefore their chances of ultimately falling +in with his army were by no means impaired. + +No time was lost in moving forward in the direction indicated, and +during the night our hero met with an adventure which we cannot do +better than relate in his own words; he says: "We came to a fork in the +road, and after debating some time as to which course we should pursue, +I leaped over the fence and made for a negro hut, while several hounds +from the plantation house followed hard on my track. I managed, by some +tall running, to come in a few feet ahead, and bolted into the shanty +without warning or formality, slamming the door behind me to keep out +the dogs. A great stupid negro was standing before the fire, his hands +and face buried in fresh pork and hoe-cake, which he was making poor +work at eating. His broad, fat countenance glistened with an unguent +distilled partly from within and partly from without. Turning my eyes +from the negro to the untidy hearth, they were greeted, as were also my +olfactories, with a skillet of pork frying over the coals. + +"Without troubling him to answer any questions, I opened the mouth of my +haversack and poured into it the dripping contents of the skillet. I +next observed that the ashes on the hearth had a suspiciously fat +appearance, and, taking the tongs, began raking among them. My +suspicions were verified, for two plump-looking hoe-cakes came to light, +which were also deposited in the haversack. + +"Looking around still farther I saw what I had not observed before, +_Dinah's black head_, as she peered out from among the bed-clothes, +rolling two of the most astonished white eyes that ever asked the +question, 'What's you g'wine to do next?' Not seeing any practical way +in which I could answer her mute question, I said to Sambo, 'Call the +dogs into the house.' This he did hastily. I then asked, 'Uncle, what +road must _this rebel_ take for Tinker Creek?' 'De right han' one, out +dar', I reckon,' he answered. Again bidding him keep the hounds in the +house till morning, I rushed out to the road and joined my companion. We +made lively tracks for about three miles, after which we took it more +leisurely, stopping to rest and refresh ourselves at every stream that +crossed the road." + +The winter was by this time fairly upon them, and sleeping in the open +air by no means a pleasant experience. They therefore made long marches, +and by the aid of an occasional friendly push from their negro allies at +length arrived in the vicinity of Point Comfort. This was on the seventh +of December, and the twelfth day of their pilgrimage. After being +somewhat alarmed by the proximity of a pack of dogs, with which some +boys were hunting, they escaped discovery, and securing another negro +for a guide, they on the same night found themselves upon the banks of +the Savannah River. + +[Illustration: The Escape--crossing The Savannah At Midnight.] + +A colored man's cabin, as usual, sheltered them during the day, and +their host and his dusky neighbors (many of whom flocked around to see +the Yankees, as was their custom) proving to be fishermen well +acquainted with the river, our friends prevailed upon one of their +number to undertake the task of carrying them across. The first +difficulty that presented itself was, where to find a boat; but their +host remembered, he said, a place upon one of the tributaries of the +Savannah where one lay, not exactly in good sailing trim it is true, for +the authorities had ordered the destruction of boats along all the +streams where escaped prisoners were likely to seek a passage, and this +craft had not escaped their vigilance; but he thought, by the liberal +use of pitch and cotton, materials easily obtainable in that +neighborhood, it could be made sufficiently water-tight to answer their +purpose. Accordingly, accompanied by their friendly Charon, with his +pitch-pot and cotton, they reached the spot indicated and found the +boat. + +It was in a very dilapidated state, but "all night long the faithful +fellow worked, caulking and pitching," while the fugitives "lay +concealed in an old hollow beech log." + +It was long after midnight before he had finished his task, and launched +the boat into the stream. She looked very shaky, but the extemporized +shipwright reassured them by saying confidently: + +"She's ready, massa. I'll soon land you in Georgey." + +They were scarcely, however, in the boat before she commenced to leak; +there was no help for it, so our adventurers betook themselves to +bailing the water out as fast as it entered, and the zealous negro +pulled away with all his might. They kept her afloat until within a +short distance of the wished-for shore, and then, seeing that if they +did not quit her she would certainly quit them, the two passengers +leaped out, and managed with some difficulty to ascend the beach. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIII. + + +THE PERILS OF AN ESCAPE. + + + Alligators.--A detachment of Southern chivalry.--A scare.--Repairs + neatly executed.--Misery and despair.--Virtue its own + reward.--Hunger and desperation.--Audacity.--A Confederate + officer.--"A good Union man."--"Two sights and a jambye."--A + narrow escape. + +Captain Glazier and his companion were not insensible to the danger they +incurred of being drawn under the water by an alligator; animals they +knew to be numerous and voracious in that river, and were therefore not +slow in quitting its banks. So, bidding a hearty good-bye to their +humble companion, who was already busy re-caulking his boat for the home +voyage, they once more plunged into the recesses of the swamps, +intending to push forward as far as possible before the morning dawned. + +They wended their way through a Southern cypress swamp. Some distance +back from the river they could perceive a large plantation-house, with +its out-buildings and accessories, protected by groups of oak and beech; +but they dared not approach it. Under the far-reaching and sheltering +cypress they pursued their way. + +The cypress here attains considerable height, the branches issuing from +a trunk formed like a cone; but occasionally they are to be seen of very +stunted growth. Around the full-sized tree are frequently to be found a +whole family of dwarfs, nature having arrested their growth when from +one to ten feet high. These would present an unsightly look, were it not +for the mantle of Spanish moss that envelops, and gives them a graceful +and picturesque appearance. + +Large alligators lay along the bayous, and on every prostrate log, +watching the movements of Glazier and his companion. "They were," he +says, "apparently pleased at our misfortunes, and sent towards us +loving, hungry glances." As soon as approached, these "wardens of the +marshes" would hobble to the edge of a bayou, and allow themselves to +fall in; their eyes remaining above water blinking at the invaders, as +if inviting them to follow. They were probably, as Glazier observes, "a +detachment of Southern chivalry doing duty on their own grounds." + +Finally, emerging from the swamp they entered a corn-field, and +discovered a delicious spring; and not far off, a friendly negro. They +arranged to meet him here at eight o'clock, at which hour he returned +and piloted them to some of his friends a short distance off. They were +several times upon the point of being discovered--once by a planter, and +again by a number of white children, who, attended by their nurse, and a +pack of curs, approached within a few feet of their hiding-place. Our +friends gradually edged themselves towards a thicket, which was distant +about four miles from Briar Creek, the latter being eighteen miles from +Millen--the junction of the Augusta branch and the main line of the +Central Railway of Georgia. + +At this thicket, feeling very weary, our fugitives threw themselves on +the ground, and were soon asleep. Nothing occurred to disturb their +slumber; but, on awaking, their consternation was great to find +themselves guarded by sentinels! Four large hounds stood looking down +at them with an air of responsibility for their safe-keeping; snuffing +occasionally at their persons to discover, probably, if they had the +scent of game. This indicated an alarming condition of things. And the +fear fell upon them that the owner of the hounds had discovered them +while they slept, and they were again prisoners. But their alarm soon +subsided. No human being appeared; and the dogs seemed to consider their +responsibility at an end, now that the slumberers were awake; and +walking around them in the most natural manner, with much show of +dignity, trooped away without even a parting salute, but greatly to the +relief of our alarmed friends. They were soon after confronted by +another source of affright. This was the approach of a large cavalry +patrol, which came so near their place of concealment, that they were +compelled to forego a fire, cold as it was, and eat their sweet potatoes +raw--the only rations left them. They however escaped observation. + +They knew nothing of the whereabouts of General Sherman; but certain +unmistakable indications satisfied them that they were now approaching +the scene of military operations. Bridges destroyed, while others were +under the guard of bodies of soldiers; large herds of stock driven by +the planters themselves to the recesses of the swamps and forests for +protection; the hurrying across country of men on horseback and afoot, +and the general appearance of excitement and unrest that prevailed +around them, convinced Glazier and his companion that the formidable +Sherman was not very distant. + +It was hard to be deprived of the comfort of a fire at such an inclement +season, for the weather had become intensely cold, and rain fell +incessantly. A merciful Providence, however, directed their steps +towards a spot where an aged negro was cutting wood and warming himself +at a fire by turns, and they were thus enabled to thaw their frozen +garments and gather some warmth in their numbed limbs. With the aid of +the old negro, they improvised a rude tent by means of their blankets, +and on leaving for his supper, he promised to return in the evening with +some hoe-cakes. This promise he faithfully fulfilled, and remained to +cobble Glazier's shoes into a condition of comparative comfort. During +the day the shoes had threatened to part company with their owner and +leave him barefoot. + +The aforesaid shoes having been subjected to the process of repair, our +hero at first demurred to their liberal dimensions, but learned, partly +from the cobbler and partly from experience, that as the _'possum skin_ +(which formed the uppers) began to dry, it acquired the hardness and +durability of _horn_; and hence, extra space became necessary. The shoes +lasted him till the end of his adventures, and are still preserved as a +memento of auld lang syne. + +The following day was passed in the swamp, a wretched, dispiriting, +drizzling rain, falling from morn till night, bringing the temperature +down to zero. They recommenced their journey at dark despite the +weather; preferring to push ahead rather than seek shelter again, with +their friends, and so delay their progress. Thus they tramped wearily +along, until the small town of Alexander was reached, and by this time +their condition had become so desperate, that they knocked at the first +cabin they came to. A white woman, in reply to their inquiry, as to +which was the road to Millen, said "she did not know." And now, for the +first time since their escape from Columbia, a feeling of despair took +possession of them. They were cold, hungry, worn out, nearly naked, and +shelterless, and such was their misery and despair, that had they not +suddenly stumbled upon a large frame building used by negro laborers on +the railroad, they would have been recaptured from utter powerlessness +to seek concealment, or have fallen by the wayside and died. + +Here, however, they met with a generous reception, and obtained the +information they sought. After exchanging some kind words with these +humble people, who heartily sympathized with them, Glazier and his +comrade proceeded on their way. + +Everything went well until they unexpectedly came to the banks of a +considerable stream, and, after a careful search, failed to discover any +practicable means of crossing it, except by fording. The fact of its +being fordable gave rise to an incident with a _moral_, and as the +gallant captain relates the story we will quote his own words: + +"Sitting," he writes, "on a log, and ruminating over our chances, a very +selfish piece of strategy suggested itself. Accordingly, I said to +Lemon, 'There is no use of both getting wet; we can carry each other +over these streams. If you will carry me over this, I will carry you +over the next,' I said, 'these streams,' although only one was before +us, and the most prominent thought in my mind was that, in all +probability, there would be no other. + +"Lemon somehow failed to see the point, and consented. Accordingly, +taking off our shoes, I mounted on the lieutenant's shoulders, as +school-boys sometimes carry each other, and he staggered through the +stream with me, doing no worse than wetting my feet. This worked well. +I congratulated myself, and gave a generous sympathy to Lemon in his +shiverings. The chances were ten to one, I thought, that the carrying +business was at an end, when suddenly another stream, wider than the +first, rose up in the darkness before us. There was no use in wincing, +and I stripped for the task. The lieutenant ascended to the position he +had fairly earned. I plunged into the water. The middle of the stream +was reached in safety, when, through no fault of mine, either the water +became too deep, or my back became too weak for the burden, and the +consequence was, the worthy gentleman was nearly as well soaked as +myself when we reached the opposite shore. Selfishness, as well as +virtue, sometimes brings its own reward." + +They crossed three other streams during the night, but, by mutual +consent, the carrying contract was canceled, and each did his own +wading. "Thus," adds the captain, "another grand scheme for human +elevation fell to the ground!" + +Weary and wet to the skin, they persevered in their onward course, until +they reached another cypress swamp, and discovered a road through it, +which had evidently been the scene of a recently fought battle. Fences +and buildings were razed to the ground, while fragments of military +equipments were scattered about profusely--broken muskets, spent +cartridges, and dead cattle; all told the story of a late conflict. + +Our fugitives had no means of learning at the time any particulars of +the supposed fight, but were afterward informed that less than a week +previous to their being on the spot, General Kilpatrick's cavalry and +the Seventeenth Army Corps had swept like an avalanche along that road. + +The temperature by this time had somewhat moderated, and Glazier and his +companion, thinking it unlikely the road would be much used for a time, +concluded that they might with safety lie down and obtain some necessary +rest and sleep. In their exhausted condition, they slept through the day +and the greater part of the following night, arousing themselves with +difficulty for the work still before them. + +Judging from the fact that many of the dead horses seen on the road bore +the brand of the "United States," and from other indications, they +arrived at the conclusion that the Union forces were not very distant, +and that they themselves were now possibly in the wake of Sherman's +army. This being the case, the hope revived in their breasts of soon +joining their friends--unless they had the misfortune to be picked up by +the enemy's scouts. Hence, having lost so much of the night, they +decided to travel this time by day, and at once put their determination +into practice. Glazier and his friend soon discovered, however, that +they were not expedited in their journey to any great extent--the +streams being greatly swollen by the recent rains, formed a serious +obstacle to their further progress. + +They also felt that traveling by daylight was attended with much hazard +to their safety. One advantage of journeying through a part of the +country lately traversed by an invading army, was found in the fact of +there being much smouldering fire along their line of march, and thus +our friends ran no risk of attracting attention by approaching these +fires at their several halting-places. This circumstance afforded one +element of comfort--_warmth_. But another, still more important, was +lacking, namely--_food_. + +They had traveled the entire day without meeting a single negro, and +hence, their commissariat was _non est_, and gaunt hunger created in +them a sense of desperation. In this state they reached, after sunset, a +plantation, where no house appeared but a number of humble shanties; +and, weary, starving and desperate, they boldly advanced to the door of +the best-looking cabin, and knocked for admission. + +"Who's thar?" was answered in a tone, common to the poor whites and +blacks of that section, that afforded no indication of the color of the +speaker. That, however, was the first thing to determine before +proceeding further. So our hero replied, interrogatively: "Are you black +or white in there?" "Thar aint no niggahs heah," was the response, and +the indignant tone of its delivery placed it beyond doubt that they had +fallen upon a family of "poor whites." Glazier thereupon changed his +voice to that of the "high-toned" rebel, and asked why he kept an +officer of the Confederate army waiting for admittance. The man +reluctantly opened the door, and the _soi-disant_ Confederate demanded +in an imperious tone, "How long is it since our army passed here?" + +"What army?" was the cautious query, before an answer was vouchsafed. + +"Why the rebel army, of course!" + +The man hereupon stated that Wheeler's cavalry had passed by a week +before, following Sherman's rear guard. + +"How far is it to General Wheeler's headquarters?" asked Lieutenant +Glazier. + +"I dun'no!" growled the other; "but I guess it's a right smart +distance." + +To other questions, as to the possibility of obtaining one or more +horses and mules, and even a suggestion that something to eat would not +be unwelcome, the fellow protested that the ---- Yankees had stripped +the country of everything, and left them neither horses, mules, nor +anything to eat. Through the intervention of his wife, however, Glazier +finally obtained some bread and sweet potatoes; and, delivering a +lecture to him upon the gross ingratitude of treating in such a +niggardly manner a soldier who had left a home of opulence and comfort, +to battle for _his_ rights and liberties, with much more of a similar +audacious character, he left the house. + +Time, however, was too precious to be wasted, and, at the conclusion of +the meal, they hurriedly resumed their march. + +A solitary planter passed them, returning their carefully-worded +salutation, and, evidently mistaking them for Confederates, volunteered +the information that "our cavalry"--meaning Wheeler's, had passed that +point last Tuesday. He was barely out of view, when they overtook a +couple of negroes going to their work; and of them Glazier inquired the +distance to the nearest plantation, receiving for answer, "Jess a mile, +massa." "Are there any white folks there?" asked our hero. "Narry one, +massa," was the reply; adding, "Dat ar planter is what dey call a +Beeswaxer"--meaning a Bushwacker, "and Massa Sherman took dem all orf." +Not wishing to commit themselves by imprudently revealing their true +character, Glazier asked them indifferently, if they had seen any of +Wheeler's cavalry lately. To which one of them responded, "Dar's right +smart of dem down at Mars' Brown's, free mile from de swamp, and dey's +hazin' de country all 'round." + +This intelligence was not encouraging, but our friends thought it the +wiser course to proceed at once to the plantation the negro had +described. They soon reached the place, and, finding that the dwelling +of the owner was closed, they, without delay, advanced to the nearest of +the smaller tenements, such as were usually occupied by slaves. + +Glazier did not pause to knock at the door, but boldly raised the latch +and entered. He expected to see the usual negro auntie with her brood of +pickaninnies, or to meet the friendly glance of one of the males, and +therefore walked in very confidently, and with a pleasant smile. This, +however, soon changed to a look of amazement, when he found himself face +to face with a Confederate officer in full uniform. Quick as lightning, +our hero determined upon his course. + +"Ah, sir!" he exclaimed, with all the coolness he could assume, "I +perceive we are in the same service. I can only hope you have not been +so unfortunate as myself." + +"How unfortunate may you have been, sir?" the _vis a vis_ inquired. + +"Why, at the late cavalry fight at Waynesboro', I lost my horse, having +him shot under me. I have not had the good fortune to obtain another, +and the consequence is, that I have been compelled to walk the whole +distance to this point." + +"I reckon, then, stranger, our cases are not altogether dissimilar," the +Confederate rejoined; "I had my horse killed there, too, but luckily got +a mule." + +[Illustration: A Mutual Surprise.] + +In anticipation of an inquiry which, if addressed to himself, might lead +to unpleasant complications, Glazier now asked: "What command he was +attached to?" "Forty-third Alabama Mounted Infantry," said the other; +and then put a similar question. "Third South Carolina Cavalry," said +Glazier, feeling that he would be more at home as a trooper than an +infantry soldier. To carry out his assumed character, he added some +remarks regarding Sherman's barbarities, and was just congratulating +himself upon the gullibility of the Confederate, when his apprehensions +were revived by a remark, that it was "strange a rebel officer should be +dressed in a Federal uniform." + +"Not at all, sir," was the quick response, "a poor fellow must wear what +he can get in times like these. I have not had a full equipment since I +entered the service, and hang me, if I ever expect to get one. In the +fight at Waynesboro' we captured a few Yanks, and I just stripped one +fellow after he died, and took his clothes." + +This explanation appeared to satisfy the rebel officer, as he remarked, +"that was a good idea, and I wish I had been as sensible myself." After +inquiry about the probability of obtaining some "grub" from the auntie, +whose hut he supposed the place to be, and receiving a discouraging +reply, Glazier was advised to call upon a Mr. Brown. The property of +this _loyal_ gentleman had been protected from seizure by General +Sherman, on account of his having claimed to be a "good Union man," and +by General Wheeler, because he was a "good rebel," and his larder was +described to be, in consequence, well stocked. Our hero prepared to +depart, first earnestly inquiring the road to Mr. Brown's residence. + +"About two sights and a jambye," said the Alabamian, which interpreted, +meant, twice as far as they could see, and the width of a swamp. + +Having obtained all the information he desired, without the remotest +intention of availing himself of the "good Union man's" hospitality, +Glazier said "good-day," and rejoined his friend. They made the best of +their way along a path, until a turn carried them out of the rebel +officer's sight, then wheeled suddenly round, and ran rapidly for a +considerable distance in the opposite direction to Mr. Brown's. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIV. + + +RECAPTURED BY A CONFEDERATE OUTPOST. + + + Fugitive slaves.--A rebel planter.--The Big Ebenezer.--A sound of + oars.--A _ruse de guerre_.--Burial of a dead soldier.--A free + ride.--Groping in the dark.--"Who goes there!"--Recaptured.--_Nil + desperandum._--James Brooks.--Contraband of war.--Confederate + murders.--In the saddle again.--A dash for freedom.--Again + captured.--Tried as a spy. + +Our hero had been somewhat impressed with the subdued tone and manner of +the Confederate officer with whom he had lately parted. To some extent +he manifested a discouraged and cowed bearing, and this, taken with some +other circumstances in their recent experience, led our friends to hope +that the end was not very remote. + +After bidding adieu to the Confederate, they walked about two miles +before discovering a place of concealment in another swamp. Here they +unexpectedly came upon a party of negroes sleeping around a large fire. +They proved to be fugitive slaves, who had abandoned their homes in +Burke County, Georgia, to follow in the rear of Sherman's army. They had +formed part of a body of several hundred persons of all ages and both +sexes, who had escaped and sought refuge upon an island in Big Ebenezer +Creek, and had been inhumanly shelled out by the Confederates. Thence +they had scattered over the country in small bands, and the present +detached party were working their way back to their masters. Captain +Glazier despatched one of them with a haversack in search of some food +among the resident colored people, and the result was so far +satisfactory that our friends were put in possession of a good supply of +sweet potatoes. + +After another march, and while still in the swamp, they heard +wood-choppers, and Lemon started to reconnoitre. Guided by the sound of +the axe, he approached a small clearing, and seeing a negro, as he had +expected, wielding the axe, walked forward to him, but was suddenly +startled by observing a burly white man sitting on a log, smoking and +looking on. They eyed each other for a moment in silence, when presently +the planter demanded in a blustering voice, "What are you doing here, in +a blue uniform?" Lemon was not slow to answer in a corresponding tone, +"I am serving my country, as every loyal man should do: what have _you_ +to say about it?" + +"I believe you're a d----d Yankee," said the planter. "You're welcome to +your opinion, old Blowhard," responded Lemon. "This is a free country; I +_am_ a Yankee--all but the d----d--and now what do you propose to do about +it?" (All this in an assumed tone of bluster, as the best adapted to the +situation.) "We'll see! we'll see!" rejoined the planter, and at once +started in a direct line for his house. Lemon lost no time, but returned +as quickly as possible to his comrade, and without any deliberation they +evacuated the enemy's country with as much expedition as their tired +legs were capable of exerting. Their ears were soon saluted with the +music of a pack of hounds let loose on their track by the burly rebel, +and the affair would have had a disastrous ending if they had not +opportunely encountered a considerable stream, and by wading through it +for nearly a mile, succeeded in cutting off the scent of the hounds. + +The planter had raised a hue and cry for miles around, and our hunted +friends, from their covert, saw mounted men patrolling the corduroy road +through the swamp, seemingly under the belief that the "Yankees" would +be driven to use this highway eventually, and thus fall an easy prey +into their hands. The man-hunters, however, found themselves at fault, +for our hero had learned, in the hard school of experience, to +anticipate all such contingencies. He and Lemon therefore secreted +themselves until late in the night, determined to rob them of their +game. + +It was approaching midnight, December fifteenth, when the fugitives +crept cautiously to the margin of the swamp. A large fire denoted the +position of the planter's picket. They ventured out through the mud and +water with the purpose of flanking the enemy on their left--a hazardous +proceeding, and attended with much suffering from the intense coldness +of the water. In two hours, however, they had reached a point on the +opposite side of the encampment, and fearing discovery and pursuit, soon +placed two or three miles between themselves and the foe. Sometimes they +were made cognizant of the nearness of the parties in search of them, by +overhearing their conversation, which treated mainly of Sherman's march +to the sea, how it would affect the Confederacy, and similar interesting +topics. + +Our friends passed the last picket at the edge of the swamp, but deeming +it unwise to relax in speed or vigilance, pushed forward to the banks of +the Big Ebenezer, which advanced them three miles further. + +Here, upon the charred abutment of a burned bridge, Glazier and his +friend paused, and with the dark river in their front, debated how they +were to reach the other side. The dawn was just breaking, and through +the rising mist they could discern the opposite shore, but no +practicable mode of reaching it. They must not, however, remain here +after daybreak, and therefore sought and found a place of concealment, +again in the hateful swamp, but not far from the river's bank. They were +soon enjoying the rest and sleep of the weary. + +Lemon was startled from his slumber by a sound resembling that of oars. +He awoke Glazier, and both listened intently, at a loss to understand +the meaning of such a sound in such a place. In a few minutes the noise +ceased, and looking cautiously from their hiding-place, they observed +two men pass near them, having the appearance of messengers or couriers, +with despatches, which they could plainly see in their hands. It at once +occurred to our hero and his companion that the boat in which these men +had rowed themselves up the river, could be made available for crossing +to its opposite bank. They found it moored to a tree, and at once +embarked and crossed the stream. To prevent pursuit they cast the boat +adrift, and as speedily as possible left "Big Ebenezer" behind them. + +At a short distance from the river side Lemon stumbled over the dead +body of a soldier, which, upon examination, proved to be that of a +Federal. Our friends having no means of placing the body underground, +concluded to bury it in the river, and thus prevent to some extent its +desecration by dogs or other carrion-seeking animals that might find it +exposed. This was the best they could do under the circumstances, and +thus the poor body found a sailor's, if not a soldier's grave. + +They had advanced not many paces again when they discovered two horses +tied to a tree, possibly the property of the two couriers whose boat +they had previously utilized. These they looked upon as fair spoil in an +enemy's country, and with little compunction and less ceremony mounted +and started on their way. A few miles brought them to the verge of the +wood, and the day was now breaking. They therefore reluctantly +dismounted, turned their steeds adrift for fear of detection, and +trudged forward on foot once more. + +Soon they had reason to congratulate themselves on their prudence in +dismounting. Another quarter of a mile brought within view a Confederate +picket, but they were not themselves observed. They accordingly sought a +hiding-place among the thick undergrowth, and were soon asleep, +remaining so until midnight. They then turned the flank of the picket +and proceeded on their journey. + +Long immunity from the peril of recapture had now inspired Glazier and +his friend with hope and full confidence in successfully attaining the +end of their struggles. The swamp, the river, the alligator, the +man-hunter, and worse than all, the blood-hound, had been met and +successfully overcome or evaded; and after three long weeks of travel +from the execrable and inhuman people, who had held them as prisoners of +war, and treated them worse than dogs, they now found themselves within +twenty miles of Savannah. + +Resting himself upon a fallen tree, clad in rags, hungry and reduced +almost to the proportions of a skeleton by long fasting, Glazier with +his companion were able to congratulate themselves upon their wonderful +preservation thus far. All seemed to foreshadow their final triumph, and +their spirits were cheered, notwithstanding that food had not passed +their lips for the past thirty-six hours, with the exception of a few +grains of corn picked up by the way. Probably within the brief space of +twenty-four hours they would be again free and under the protection of +the glorious flag, in whose defence they had fought and suffered so +much. + +Flushed with their past success and elated with hope for the future they +recommenced their march. They had no exact information as to the +position of the Federal army, and were in fact groping their way in the +dark--figuratively as well as literally--every sense on the alert to +avoid the enemy's picket lines. + +On reaching Little Ebenezer Creek about midnight they were chagrined to +find the bridge destroyed, but after reconnoitring for a time, were +satisfied that the coast was clear on the opposite side. Finding some +broken planks they constructed a raft and paddled themselves across the +stream. + +They were now on the Savannah River Road, over which Kilpatrick's +cavalry and the Fourteenth Army Corps had passed but a week before. Old +camping-grounds were numerous along their way, and each was examined +closely for any bread or other eatables they thought might have been +left by the army. + +[Illustration: Recaptured By A Confederate Outpost.] + +They were closely engaged in this search, when "Who comes there?" was +gruffly shouted by a voice near them. + +"Friends," promptly answered Glazier. + +"Advance one!" commanded the picket. + +"I advanced promptly," writes Captain Glazier, in the history of his +capture and imprisonment, "and arriving near my captors found them to be +mounted infantry. They were sitting upon their horses in the shade of +some cypress-trees. One asked, 'Who are you?' to which I replied, 'A +scout to General Hardie, and must not be detained, as I have important +information for the general.' + +"The picket replied, 'I'm instructed to take every person to the officer +of the picket that approaches this post after dark.' + +"'I can't help it, sir. It is not customary to arrest scouts, and I must +pass on.' + +"'You cannot; I must obey orders. I do not doubt the truth of your +assertion; but until you have seen the lieutenant, you will not be +allowed to pass this post.' + +"Finding that I had met a good soldier I saw that it was useless to +trifle with him, and tried to console myself with the thought that I +should be able to dupe the officer; and as we were hurried on towards +the reserve of the picket my mind was occupied in arranging a plan for +our defence, as spies to the great rebel chief. Arrived at the reserve +we found nearly all asleep, including the lieutenant, in close proximity +to a large rail-fire. + +"A little rough shaking soon roused him up, and, rubbing his eyes, he +asked, 'What's wanted?' + +"I quickly answered, 'I'm surprised, sir, that scouts to our generals +should be arrested by your picket.' + +"He said, 'My instructions are positive, and no man can pass this post +without examination.' + +"'Very well, then,' I said, 'be good enough to examine us at once.' + +"'Have you passes?' + +"'No, sir; not at present. We had papers when we left the general's +headquarters; but having been scouting in Northern Georgia, for the past +two weeks, our papers are worn out and lost.' + +"'You have some papers about you, I suppose?' + +"Thinking that by answering in the affirmative, and producing quickly an +old package of letters which had been received while in Libby Prison, +that none of them would be examined, I hastily drew them from the +side-pocket of my jacket and held them before me, saying, 'I hope here +are enough, sir.' + +"The lieutenant's curiosity led him to take one which had been received +from Colonel Clarence Buel, of Troy, New York. He held it near the fire, +and noticing the date, turned his eyes towards me and again to the +letter; the second glance seemed to satisfy him that I was not a rebel, +and he remarked very indignantly, 'Then you are scouting for General +Hardie, are you? I believe you are a d----d Yankee spy! and if you were +to get your deserts I should hang you to the first tree I come to,' Said +I, 'Lieutenant, do not be too hasty. I can convince you that I have been a +prisoner of war, and if you are a true soldier I shall be treated as +such.' + +"Becoming a little more mild he gave us to understand that we should +start at ten o'clock the next morning for Springfield, the headquarters +of General Wheeler. + +"After detailing a special guard for the prisoners, and instructing them +to be on the alert, the lieutenant laid himself down by the fire, +leaving us to reflect upon the hardness of fate, and the uncertainties +attending an effort to escape the clutches of a vigilant enemy." + +Glazier did not despair, but at the first opportunity communicated to +Lemon his determination to reach the Federal lines at all risks; he +would never return to South Carolina a prisoner; the horrors of +prison-life and the privations and sufferings they had already endured, +should never be repeated in his case, but rather--welcome death! Their +enemies--albeit fellow-countrymen and _Americans_--were inhuman and +barbarous, and before putting himself in their hands again, he would +submit to be hung by bushwhackers, or torn to pieces by blood-hounds. +Their case was now desperate, and for his part he would take the first +chance that offered of getting away. Our hero thought he could count on +Lemon's concurrence and co-operation. The men of the picket told him +they had been arrested at the outpost; and it was now clear that if the +fugitives had been so fortunate as to pass this picket, they could have +reached the Federal lines in less than an hour. Only a step intervened +between captivity and freedom--the thought was very disheartening. + +An instance of exceptional kindness on the part of a Confederate must +not be omitted here. James Brooks, one of the picket, came to the +prisoners and invited them to partake of some hoe-cake and bacon. He +said he had been out foraging, and would share his plunder with them. +Having been without food for forty-eight hours, save a few ears of +corn, they eagerly embraced the generous offer. The hoe-cake was +produced and partaken of ravenously and thankfully. The other men of the +picket were disgusted at the liberality of their comrade, calling him a +"blue belly," and a fool to give good bread to a couple of d----d Yanks. +Like a true man, however, he made no reply to their brutal taunts, and +gave the captives a most excellent breakfast. + +Having finished their welcome meal, they asked permission to bathe +themselves, under guard, in a little stream not many rods from the +reserve, which request was granted. Here the prisoners in their +desperation offered the guard one hundred dollars in Confederate scrip, +which had been given them by their negro friends, to assist them in +making their escape. The guards seemed to distrust each other, and +declined the proposal. They, however, said they would be right glad to +have the money, but feared to take it, as they were held responsible for +the safe return of the prisoners. The offer of the bribe was reported to +the lieutenant, who at once ordered the delinquents to be searched, and +all the scrip found upon them was confiscated, as contraband of war, and +appropriated to rebel uses, leaving our two unfortunate friends +penniless. They were further threatened with condign punishment for +offering to bribe the guard. One said "Shoot them;" another, "Let 'em +stretch hemp;" several recommended that they be taken to the swamp and +"sent after Sherman's raiders,"--referring, probably, to the manner in +which they had disposed of some of the Federal sick, who had been left +in the rear of the army. Of this incident Glazier writes: "I had been +told by the negroes that fifteen of our sick, who fell into the +hands of the rebels but a few days before our recapture, were taken to a +swamp, where their throats were cut, and their bodies thrown into a +slough hole. I cannot vouch for the truth of this statement, but it came +to me from many whose veracity I have no reason to question." + +Let us in the name of humanity doubt it! + +[Illustration: The Escape And Pursuit.] + +At ten o'clock A. M. a mounted guard, consisting of a corporal and two +men, were detailed to march the prisoners to the headquarters of General +Wheeler. They had not proceeded far when Glazier assumed to be footsore, +and pleaded his utter inability to walk any further. Believing this, one +of the guards dismounted and helped him into the saddle. Our hero was no +sooner mounted than he decided that, come what would, he would make his +escape. In a few moments the guard who was on foot espied a black +squirrel darting across the road, and oblivious of his responsibility, +gave chase to it, Glazier looking on and biding his time. The squirrel +soon ran up a tree, and leaped from bough to bough with its usual +agility. Suddenly it halted on a prominent branch, seeming to bid +defiance to its pursuer. The carbine was instantly raised, and +discharged. Without waiting to note the result, Glazier, feeling that +_now_ was his opportunity, dashed off at a gallop, urging his horse to +the top of his speed. Before the squirrel-hunter could reload, he was +many yards away. The corporal in charge fired his revolver, and at each +discharge of the weapon, shouted to the fugitive to halt! but Glazier +gave no heed to the summons, and might have succeeded in reaching the +swamps and defied recapture, if he had not unfortunately galloped into a +rebel camp! Baffled, he turned his horse, and endeavored to cross an +open field, but the corporal continued to shout, "Halt that d----d +Yankee!" when a body of Texan Rangers from General Iverson's cavalry +division, some mounted and some dismounted, gave chase, hooting and +yelping, and finally overtook and compelled him to surrender. + +The guard whose horse Lieutenant Glazier had ridden came up and vented +his rage at the escapade in no measured language. The Texans, however, +enjoyed the fun of the thing, and laughed at, and ridiculed him. Said +one, "You are a d----d smart soldier to let a blue-belly get away from +you--and on your own horse too!" Another joined in with, "Say, Corporal, +which of them nags can run fastest?" Nothing of course was said about +the _squirrel_! + +On Lemon and his guard coming up they resumed their march to +headquarters--Glazier's lameness exciting no further sympathy, nor the +offer of another mount. + +The escort with their charge reached General Wheeler's headquarters in +the afternoon, and the report handed in stated that, "the two prisoners +had been captured while attempting to pass the out-post, under the +pretence of being scouts to General Hardie." + +Wheeler ordered them at once into his presence and questioned them +closely. + +Captain Glazier thus graphically relates the interview: + +"'Then you are scouting for Confederate generals?' said Wheeler. + +"I replied, 'We would have rejoiced if we could have convinced your +out-post that we were.' + +"'None of your impudence, sir! Remember that you are a prisoner.' + +"'Very true; but when you ask questions, you must expect answers.' + +"'What are you doing with that gray jacket?' + +"'I wear it, sir, to protect myself from the sun and storm.' + +"'Where did you get it?' + +"'One of the guards at Columbia was kind enough to give it to me, when +he saw that I was suffering for the want of clothing to cover my +nakedness.' + +"'He could not have been a true rebel, to assist a Yankee in making his +escape.' + +"'He knew nothing of my intention to escape; and I believe he was at +least a kind-hearted man.' + +"'Why don't you wear the Federal uniform? Are the Yankees ashamed of +it?' + +"'By no means, sir! What few garments were spared me at the time of my +capture were worn out during a long imprisonment, and the clothing which +was sent on to Richmond by our Government during the winter of 1863 for +distribution among the prisoners, was, for the most part, appropriated +by your authorities.' + +"'Like most of your contemptible Yankee crew, I believe you to be a +lying scoundrel, and you shall answer to the charge of spy.' + +"'Very well, sir, I am compelled to await your pleasure; but you have +heard nothing but the truth.' + +"'Guard! take the prisoners to the jail, place them in a cell, and keep +them in close confinement until further orders.'" + +The above colloquy between Wheeler and his prisoners reflects small +credit upon him as a leader of "Southern Chivalry." + + + + +CHAPTER XXV. + + +FINAL ESCAPE FROM CAPTIVITY. + + + In jail.--White trash.--Yankees.--Off to Waynesboro.--No rations. + Calling the roll.--Sylvania.--Plan for escape.--Lieutenant John + W. Wright.--A desperate project.--Escaped!--Giving chase.--The + pursuers baffled.--Old Richard.--"Pooty hard case, massa."--Rebel + deserters.--The sound of cannon.--Personating a rebel + officer.--Mrs. Keyton.--Renewed hope.--A Confederate + outpost.--Bloodhounds.--Uncle Philip.--March Dasher.--Suspicion + disarmed.--"Now I'ze ready, gemmen."--Stars and + stripes.--Glorious freedom.--Home! + +In obedience to orders, Glazier and his comrade were at once marched off +to the county jail at Springfield, Georgia, then in the hands of the +military authorities. They were the only military prisoners confined +there, and were allowed the privilege of leaving their cell and going +into the yard for fresh air. They were not a little amused by the crowds +of wondering citizens who visited the jail to view the "two live Yanks." + +These worthy citizens were greatly exercised that the prisoners should +be permitted to leave their cells, and called on the jailer to remove +them from the yard or they would take the keys into their own hands; but +the officer in command told them that he was personally responsible for +their safe-custody, and refused to remove them. These white Georgians +were a very primitive class of people. Utterly illiterate and +uninformed, their mode of speech was as bad as that of the most ignorant +slaves on the plantations. The term "white trash," whatever its origin, +was a most appropriate designation. No care had been taken to educate +them--no school-houses built; education being confined to the few whose +wealth enabled them to send their children to Northern schools, or to +engage a private tutor. Discovering that the prisoners were harmless, +many of these people asked them questions of a curious and comical +nature. They thought Yankees were imps of darkness, possessed of horns +and hoof, and, seeing that the prisoners were formed not unlike +themselves, were with difficulty persuaded that they were "Yankees." +Their idea of the causes and character of the war was ludicrous in the +extreme, and will hardly bear description--the negroes themselves being +far better informed upon this, as they were upon most other subjects. + +A very brief examination before a hastily convened board of officers +resulted in a finding that the captives were "escaped prisoners of war," +and not "spies." They were accordingly asked, where they were captured, +where imprisoned, when they escaped, etc.; and then a strong guard from +the Second Georgia Cavalry was detailed to convey them, with fifteen +other prisoners from the Fourteenth Army Corps, to Waynesboro. + +From the other prisoners Glazier gleaned much useful information +concerning the situation of the Union lines, and also learned where the +rebel troops were stationed in Sherman's rear. Should he attempt another +escape, this knowledge would be valuable. The rebel escort cared very +little for the wants of their prisoners, and issued no rations whatever +to them--they themselves being entirely dependent on foraging for their +own supplies. As the unfortunate prisoners could not forage for +themselves they had to go without, a condition of things that spoke +little for the soldierly feeling of the guard. All attempts to elude the +vigilance of the latter during the day had failed, and as darkness drew +on, Glazier and his friend felt in very low spirits. They came to a halt +a few minutes before dark, and were quartered in an old building for the +night. + +In passing through a large swamp, just before halting, the water was so +deep that each man had to wade through as he best could. The guard +exerted themselves to their utmost to keep them together, but in spite +of their efforts to do so, one of the prisoners fell out, and his +absence was overlooked by the sergeant, although noticed by his +fellow-prisoners, who succeeded in convincing the sergeant that all were +present. The mode was this: Glazier found out the absent man's name, and +then volunteered to call the roll from a list in the sergeant's +possession. It being dark, a piece of pitch-pine was lighted, and the +list handed to Glazier, who proceeded to call the names. All answered, +except the absentee, when, according to previous arrangement, each +affirmed that no such man had been among them. The sergeant sapiently +concluded that the name had found its way upon the roster by some error, +and nothing further was said about it. Had this little ruse not been +resorted to, great efforts would have been made to recover the fugitive. +Picked men would have been detailed, hounds called out from the nearest +plantation, and a very short time would have convinced the unfortunate +victim how little hope there was for him who sought to shun the horrors +of prison-life by an escape. + +[Illustration: The Escape From Sylvania, Georgia--running The Guard.] + +We do not propose entering into any detail of this march into captivity, +more especially as our hero has himself fully and graphically described +it in his "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape," compiled from a diary kept +during the whole period of his adventurous career, and published in +1865. We will merely state here that on Monday, December nineteenth, +1864, after a dreary march of twenty-five miles, the captives found +themselves encamped for the night at the little village of Sylvania, +Georgia; half-way between the point of their departure and that of their +destination, Waynesboro. + +Glazier's mind, during the whole of the day, had been preoccupied with +but one subject--_how to escape!_--this problem excluding every other +thought or consideration of himself or his surroundings. + +Early in the evening the prisoners were stationed on the porch of a +large unoccupied building, and here it was determined they should pass +the night. The villagers of Sylvania knew little of the sad realities of +war, having hitherto happily escaped the visits of the armed hosts. They +surrounded the men of the escort, and plied them with many curious +questions, which were good-naturedly answered with as much, or as little +exaggeration as good soldiers usually indulge in when confronted with +greenhorns. Their attention, thus agreeably occupied by the +simple-minded villagers, was in some degree removed from their charge, +and this little circumstance seemed propitious to Glazier, who was +watching intently his opportunity. + +The sergeant had notified the prisoners that his foragers had returned +with a quantity of sweet potatoes and some corn-bread; that the former +would be issued to the "Yanks," and the latter to the guard. Orders +also were given to place all the food at one end of the porch, where a +fire had been kindled of rail fence; and the potatoes were to be served +to the prisoners from that point. + +Glazier, under the pretence of desiring to use the fire for the purpose +of roasting the potatoes, obtained leave for all to remain outside on +the porch until after supper. This concession reluctantly granted, hope +sprang in his breast that the opportunity he so ardently sought was now +at hand. Quickly he determined upon his plan of operation, and seeing +Lieutenant John W. Wright, of the Tenth Iowa Volunteers, near him, +whispered in his ear an outline of his desperate project, and invited +the latter to join in putting it into execution. To this proposition, +without a moment's consideration, Wright consented. + +The two candidates for freedom then sauntered towards the end of the +porch, conversing loudly and cheerfully upon general topics, and thus +excited no suspicion of their intentions. The hungry prisoners gathered +around the ration-board, when Glazier covertly signaled his companion, +and each suddenly clutched a good handful of the corn-bread. Under cover +of the increasing darkness, and screened from observation by the men who +stood between them and the guard, they quietly but rapidly, in a +stooping position, stole away, making for the edge of a neighboring +wood. Not a word was spoken, and in less time than it takes to record +it, they were concealed among the foliage and undergrowth; and, +befriended by the darkness, were completely masked from the observation +of the enemy. + +Fortunately their flight was unobserved until after the distribution of +the rations, when the guard missed their corn-bread. This seemed to be +felt more than the loss of their prisoners, the sergeant exclaiming, in +euphemistic southern (according to Glazier), "By dog on't! the d----d +Yankee officers have done gone and took all our corn-bread. I'll have +them, if it costs me a horse!" + +Calling out a corporal and four men, he quickly ordered them to go to +the nearest plantation for hounds, and to "bring back the two Yanks dead +or alive," adding that he "guessed they had taken the Springfield road," +which was the nearest route to the Federal lines. + +It happened, however, that the peremptory orders of the sergeant were +overheard by Glazier and Wright, who were hidden not many yards away in +the wood. Instead, therefore, of proceeding on the direct road by way of +Springfield, they retraced their steps in the dark, and by this means +baffled their pursuers. Having reached the Middle Ground Road, over +which they had lately passed, they bounded over it to avoid leaving +their foot-prints, and thus broke the trail. They were now in a large +and densely-wooded swamp, and, effectually concealed by the umbrageous +covering, sat down to a council of war. + +We may here state that Lieutenant Lemon, the late faithful companion of +our hero, had been prevented from participating in the plan of escape, +and was eventually taken back to be re-tortured in his old quarters at +Columbia. Wright was also an escaped prisoner from Columbia, whom +Glazier had often met during his imprisonment there. He escaped from +"Camp Sorghum" a few days after Lemon and Glazier, but unfortunately was +recaptured just when he felt that he was about to bid adieu to his +captivity. + +Lieutenant Wright possessed one advantage for the dangerous and +desperate enterprise they had now re-entered upon--he knew the country. +By his advice, therefore, it was agreed to remain quietly concealed in +the swamp until night, when he would lead the way to the hut of a negro +who had befriended him during his previous attempt to escape. + +About midnight he piloted Glazier to the hut of "Old Richard," a worthy +and kind-hearted negro, who had supplied him with hoe-cake and bacon +just before his recapture. Richard was in ecstasies on beholding his +friend, Massa Wright, again, whom he knew to have been retaken, and with +due formality, our hero was introduced. On being asked for some bacon +and sweet potatoes to put with their corn-bread, he replied: "Pooty hard +case, massa; but dis yer darkey'll do de best he can. Can't get nuffin' +on this plantation, but reckon I can buy some 'tatoes down at Massa +Smith's, three miles from yer, and will go down thar after I finish my +task to-morrer. As to meat," he said, "you know, massa, dat in the Souf +de slave takes what de white folks frows away, and I reckon you all +couldn't eat a tainted ham dat ole massa gib me t'other day; but if you +can, God knows dis chile gibs it to you wid all his heart." Having +become, from long fasting, almost entirely indifferent to the sense of +taste, our friends gave Old Richard to understand that the ham would be +welcome. + +The important question of rations having been thus satisfactorily +arranged, Richard was asked to guide the fugitives to some place of +hiding, where no rebel could find them. Accordingly, they were conducted +to a swamp, and soon discovered a secure place of concealment for the +day. "The whippoorwill and turtle-dove," Captain Glazier writes, +"enlivened the hours with their inspiring notes, and as night began to +approach, the gloomy owl, from the tree-tops, uttered his solemn warning +cry. The pine and cypress, swayed by the breeze, moaned a perpetual +chorus, and under their teaching we learned, during the long, dreary +hours, how much we were indebted to these dismal wilds, that concealed +both friend and foe. + +"Here the rebel deserter concealed himself from his pursuers. Here the +loyalist found a hiding-place from the rebel conscripting officer. Here +the trembling negro had his first taste of freedom. Here the escaped +Union prisoner was enabled to baffle blood-hounds and human-hounds, and +make his way to the Federal lines." + +The day wore away at length, and as darkness was approaching, Old +Richard, true to his promise, was on hand with the supplies. He gave the +fugitives all he had been able to purchase with his small means, and +they, after asking God to bless him for his kindness, departed. Our +friends trudged away, rejoicing, notwithstanding their fatigue, and the +bodily weakness of Glazier. For the latter had by this time been reduced +in weight to not more than ninety pounds, his usual weight having been +about one hundred and forty-five. He was still, however, filled with +indomitable "pluck," and a determination to conquer the situation, with +all its dread horrors, and return to his colors. Wright, on the other +hand, had a splendid physique, and cared little for hardships that would +have intimidated, or perhaps killed, an ordinary man. On several +occasions he picked Glazier up and generously bore him upon his broad +shoulders over the worst parts of the swamp, the latter being too weak +to make his way alone without falling into the slough-holes. + +They were startled, in the course of this night, on seeing two men, who, +by their conversation, which was overheard, proved to be rebel deserters +from Wheeler's command. Our friends deemed it the wisest plan to secrete +themselves behind a log until the men had passed. + +At break of day they again concealed themselves, and rested between the +roots of an ancient cypress. Their ears were now greeted with the +distant boom of heavy cannon, which came from the direction of Savannah. +This helped in directing their course for the following night, and also +announced to them in plain language that they were not very far from the +friends they longed to meet. + +Refreshed and hopeful they started as the shades of evening fell, +determined, if possible, to accomplish a good march before daylight. + +They had not, however, proceeded far, when a large plantation became +visible, the white mansion gleaming through the trees. Wright +recognizing the place, suggested that Glazier might procure a good +supper, and something for the haversack, if he would boldly call and +personate a rebel officer, trusting to his face and ready wit to carry +him through. He had heard from some negroes that the only occupant was a +Mrs. Keyton and some young children, the wife and family of the planter, +who was an officer in the rebel army; and further that there were no +hounds about the place. + +Glazier, with characteristic promptness, acquiesced; and the following +is a description of the interview, extracted from the diary, which amid +all his wanderings and trials he never failed to keep regularly written +up: + +"After hearing Wright's description, and having agreed upon signals of +danger, should any occur, I started on my foraging expedition, with a +good degree of assurance. + +"Stepping up to the door of the mansion, I rapped, and the lady soon +made her appearance. She seemed both refined and intelligent. I asked, +'Can you give this rebel a supper?' She replied, 'You shall have the +best the house affords,' and invited me to step in and take a seat by +the fire. I did so, saying, as I took my seat, 'Madam, I am shocked at +the dastardly conduct of General Sherman in his march through Georgia. +It has been characterized by nothing but what should excite revenge, and +move to action, every man possessing a true Southern spirit. Our aged +citizens, who have banded together for mutual protection, have been +treated as bushwackers--have been driven from their homes, and their +property confiscated. Our hounds, always true to the interests of the +South, have been shot down by the road-side for no other reason than +that they were used in tracking escaped prisoners--' + +"Interrupting me here, the lady remarked, much to my surprise, that she +could not see that the Yankees were much worse than the Confederates, +after all. She added: "'When the Yankee army passed through this State, +they took from the rich the supplies necessary for their sustenance; and +when our cavalry followed they took nearly all that was left, seeming to +care but little for our wants, and often depriving defenceless women +and children of their last morsel of bread.' + +"'I regret, madam, that the conduct of our troops has been such as to +give you reason for complaint.' + +"'I, too, regret that our men have not proved themselves worthy of a +cause which they appear so willing to defend.' + +"'Remember,' I continued, 'that our commissary department has been +completely wrecked, and that we are entirely dependent upon the people +for the subsistence of a large army.' + +"By the sad expression of her countenance, which accompanied and +followed this remark, I saw clearly that she felt we had reached a +crisis in the war, when Providence was turning the tables, and she +accordingly interrogated: + +"'And what do you think of present prospects?' + +"I quickly responded, 'Our future looks dark--our cause appears almost +hopeless, but the sacrifices of our gallant dead remain unavenged. +Therefore, we must fight while there is a man left, and die in the last +ditch.' + +"'If there be no longer any hope of success, sir, I should say that it +would be better to lay down our arms at once, and go back under the old +flag.' + +"'Madam, we must fight, we _must fight_!' + +"'But it is wickedness and worse than madness to continue this awful +massacre of human beings, without some prospect of ultimate success.' + +"'Very true; but we have lost all in this struggle, and must sell our +lives as dearly as possible.' + +"By this time the good lady seemed to have waxed enthusiastic, and +warm as the fire over which the servant was preparing my supper, and she +answered: + +"'My husband is a captain in the Twenty-fifth Georgia Infantry. He is +the father of these children, and is very dear to both them and me. Long +have I prayed that he might be spared to return to his family, but fear +that we shall never be permitted to see him again. When he entered the +army, I admired his patriotism, and was glad to see him go in defence of +what I supposed to be the true interests of the southern people; but _we +have been deceived from the beginning by our military and political +leaders_. It is time to open our eyes, and see what obstinacy has +brought us. We are conquered. Let us return to the rule of the Federal +government, ere we are ruined.' + +"Madam, your sympathies appear to be largely with the Yankees.' + +"'It is not strange, sir; I was born and educated in New England;--and +your speech would indicate that you too are not a native of the South.' + +"'You are right; I am a New Yorker by birth, but have been for a +considerable time in South Carolina.' + +"After partaking of the frugal meal set before me, which consisted of +corn-bread and sweet potatoes, I thanked the lady for her kindness, and +told her that I regretted very deeply that I was not in a situation to +remunerate her for so much trouble. Noticing my blue pants as I arose +from the table, she remarked: + +"'It is impossible for me to know our men from the Yankees by the +uniform; but a few days since, two soldiers asked me to get them some +supper, claiming to be scouts to General Wheeler; they told many very +plausible stories, and the next day, to my astonishment, I was charged +with harboring Yankee spies.' + +"'I do not wonder that you find it difficult to distinguish the Yankee +from the Confederate soldier, for in these trying times a poor rebel is +compelled to wear anything he can get. The dead are always stripped, and +at this season of the year, we find the Federal uniform far more +comfortable than our own.' + +"'It must be an awful extremity that could tempt men to strip the dying +and the dead!' + +"'We have become so much accustomed to such practices, that we are +unmoved by scenes which might appall and sicken those who have never +served in our ranks.' + +"'I sincerely hope that these murderous practices will soon be at an +end.' + +"Feeling that I had been absent from my comrade long enough, and that it +was time to make my departure, I arose, saying, + +"'I must go, madam; may I know to whom I am so much indebted for my +supper and kind entertainment this evening?' + +"'Mrs. James Keyton. And what may I call your name?' + +"'Willard Glazier, Fifty-third Alabama Mounted Infantry.' + +"'Should you chance to meet the Twenty-fifth Georgia, please inquire for +Captain Keyton, and say to him that his wife and children are well, and +send their love.' + +"'He shall certainly have your message if it is my good fortune to meet +him. Good-night.'" + +Leaving Mrs. Keyton with her fears for the rebel cause in general, and +her husband in particular, Glazier hurried out to find his friend Wright +pacing up and down the road in a bad humor at having been kept so long +waiting; but setting their faces in the direction of Springfield, they +at once started on their march. They soon found themselves approaching +the rebel forces in General Sherman's rear, and determined at all risks +to obtain information of the two armies. They were at General Iverson's +headquarters, and at one time were within fifteen paces of the house he +occupied. + +Cautiously concealing themselves behind trees they reached a spot within +earshot of the provost-guard, and overheard their conversation. The +prospects of the war were freely discussed, and the fall of Savannah. +The conclusion forced on the minds of our friends was that the +Confederate cause was losing ground, and its armies would soon be +compelled to surrender to the Union force. + +Glazier and his comrade left the spot inspired with renewed courage. + +Six miles on their road to Springfield found daylight approaching, and +the fugitives hurriedly secreted themselves among some tall swamp grass. +They were suddenly aroused by the baying of a blood-hound, and +immediately sprang to their feet. + +"We are followed!" exclaimed Wright. + +"What do you propose to do?" quickly asked Glazier. + +"I am undecided," was the unsatisfactory reply. + +"It is my opinion," said Glazier, promptly, "that if we are not off at +once we shall be prisoners." + +"Well, off it is!" spoke Wright; and both struck off in a southeasterly +direction in double quick time. Fences and ditches were leaped, and +streams forded, the hounds approaching so nearly that their baying could +be distinctly heard by the fugitives; but fortunately, or +providentially, they came to a large creek, and jumping in, waded along +its course for a distance of some sixty rods, then emerging, pursued +their journey in the direction they had intended. About one o'clock they +concluded they had out-generaled the bushwhackers and their hounds. +Elated by success they became less cautious and did not halt. About two +o'clock Glazier was startled by seeing his companion drop suddenly and +silently behind a tree. Glazier followed, watching the movements of +Wright, and presently saw that they were within a few rods of a +Confederate picket. Before they had time to move a cavalry patrol came +up to the post with instructions, and, as soon as he had passed, our +friends crawled upon their hands and knees into the friendly swamp, and +thus screened themselves from their enemy. + +The _hounds_, however, were a source of greater danger to the fugitives +than the rebel pickets; the training and scent of the former having been +so perfected and developed by long and cruel use in the recapture of +fugitive slaves, that, to evade them, was almost an impossibility. Hence +the sense of caution was strained to the utmost both by night and day on +the part of our friends. + +The use of blood-hounds in warfare is considered _barbarous_ in every +country pretending to civilization, even if they are employed against a +foreign foe. How much more so, in a war waged between fellow-citizens of +one blood, one history, one language, and in numerous instances, bearing +domestic or family relations to each other; and this, in support of a +cause, the righteousness of which was doubted by many who found +themselves unwillingly compelled to give in their adherence at the +dictation of a few ambitious men. For this sin a righteous God has +judged them! A cause thus supported deserved defeat in the estimation of +just men of every nation, apart from all political considerations. + +Captain Glazier and his friend congratulated themselves on having so far +eluded, by every expedient known to them, the sanguinary fangs of these +barbarous instruments of warfare; and after nightfall continued their +route, passing the picket in the darkness. + +Soon after they encountered a colored friend, known among his people as +"Uncle Philip." This good darkey informed them that the Federal forces +had possession of Cherokee Hill, on the Savannah River Road, only eight +miles distant--news which afforded them inexpressible joy! Uncle Philip +was asked if he would guide them to the lines; and replied: "I'ze neber +ben down dar, massa, sense Massa Sherman's company went to Savannah; but +I reckon you-uns can git Massa Jones, a free cullered man, to take you +ober. He's a mighty bright pusson, and understands de swamps jest like a +book." + +On reaching Jones' hut his wife informed them that her husband was out +scouting, but was expected back about eleven o'clock. She urged our +friends to enter and await his return, as he was always glad to do all +in his power for the Yankees. Fearing the rebel scouts might discover +them, they, at first, hesitated, but consented on Mrs. Jones promising +to be on the alert. She accordingly volunteered her two boys, one of +eight years and the other six, for out-post duty, charging them strictly +to notify her immediately if they saw any one approaching, so that she +might conceal the fugitives. Auntie then promptly placed before them a +bountiful supply of hoe-cake and parched corn, the best her humble cot +afforded, and most welcome to the famished men. + +Jones returned at the appointed hour, but informed his guests that, +while very willing to guide them, he was not sufficiently acquainted +with the safest route to do so; and referred them to a friend of his, +who would accompany them, and whom he could strongly recommend as a +competent and safe guide. On visiting this man he also pleaded ignorance +of any _safe_ route; but mentioned the name of still another "friend of +the Yankees," who, he said, had come up from the Union lines that +morning and would willingly return with them. This friendly negro also +was found. He was a genuine negro, as black as ebony and very devout in +his mode of speech. His name was "March Dasher." "I'll do it, massa, if +God be my helper!" he answered to their eager inquiry. + +Glazier and his comrade were impatient to start at once, but upon this +point Dasher was inexorable. "Dis chile knows whar de pickets is in de +day-time," he emphatically declared, "but knows nuffin 'bout 'em arter +dark;" and absolutely declined to take the risk of falling within the +Confederate lines--an act of prudence and firmness for which he was to +be much commended. + +A fear of treachery was aroused when Dasher tried to induce them to +remain in his hut till morning, but this was immediately and entirely +removed when he and his household at a signal, fell on their knees, and +joined in simple but fervent prayer to the Almighty, as a friend of the +friendless--beseeching Him to protect and prosper them in their +efforts to flee from their enemies; and much more of a nature to disarm +any suspicion of their fidelity and good-will to the Union cause. + +Our friends, however, declined to remain in the hut, fearing a surprise +from the outpost; and at the conclusion of the prayer, betook themselves +to a pine thicket with the joint resolution of giving their dark friend +no peace until he started with them to the Federal lines. + +About one o'clock in the morning, Wright, impatient of delay, proceeded +to the hut, and arousing Dasher, told him that day had just begun to +break. He came to the door, and pointing to the stars in the unclouded +sky, remarked, with a good-tempered smile, "I reck'n it's good many +hours yet till break ob day, massa. Yer can't fool March on de time; his +clock neber breaks down. It's jest right ebery time." Wright returned to +his lair in the thicket, remarking irritably, as he threw himself down, +"Glazier, you might as well undertake to move a mountain, as to get the +start of that colored individual!" + +At the first peep of dawn, punctual to his promise, Dasher thrust his +black, good-humored face into the thicket, and announced: + +"Now I'ze ready, gemmen, to take you right plum into Mr. Sherman's +company by 'sun-up;'" and as Sol began to gild the tree-tops and the +distant eastern hills, the trio came within sight of the Federal camp, +and witnessed the "Stars and Stripes," floating triumphantly in the +breeze! + +What pen can describe their emotions, when--after more than fourteen +long months' suffering from imprisonment, starvation, nakedness, bodily +and mental prostration, and every inhumanity short of being murdered, +like many of their imprisoned comrades, in cold blood--they again hailed +_friends_ and found _freedom_ at last within their grasp! Words would +fail to tell their joy. Let us leave it to the reader to imagine. + +On first approaching the camp they were supposed, by their motley +attire, to be deserters from the enemy; and, as true soldiers and +deserters never fraternize, no signal of welcome was offered by the +"boys in blue." The suspicions of the latter, however, were allayed on +seeing Glazier and his companion wave their caps: then they were +beckoned to come forward. And when it was discovered that they were +_escaped prisoners_, an enthusiastic grip was given to each by every +soldier present, accompanied by cordial congratulations on their +successful escape from the barbarous enemy who had had them in custody. + +"Each man," writes Glazier, "took us by the hand, congratulating us on +our eventful and successful escape, while we cheered the boys for the +glorious work they had accomplished for the Union. Haversacks were +opened and placed at our disposal. There was a great demand for +hard-tack and coffee; but the beauty of it all was, Major Turner was not +there, to say what he often repeated, 'Reduce their rations; I'll teach +the d----d scoundrels not to attempt to escape!' + +"I cannot forget," he adds, "the sea of emotion that well-nigh +overwhelmed me, as soon as I could realize the fact that I was no longer +a prisoner, and especially when I beheld the starry banner floating +triumphantly over the invincibles who had followed their great General +down to the sea." + +Our hero and his friend became objects of much curiosity, while their +eventful escape was the subject of general conversation and comment by +the brave boys who pressed around them, and who proved to be a +detachment of the One Hundred and First Illinois Volunteers, Twentieth +Army Corps. Their most intimate friends would have failed to recognize +them. Glazier was clad in an old gray jacket and blue pants, with a +venerable and dilapidated hat which had seen a prodigious amount of +service of a nondescript kind; while a tattered gray blanket that had +done duty for many a month as a bed by day and a cloak by night, and was +now in the last stage of dissolution from age and general infirmity, +completed his unmilitary and unpretentious toilet. Having at first no +one to identify them, Glazier and his companion were as strangers among +friends, and necessarily without official recognition. At length, +however, after much searching, they found Lieutenant Wright's old +company, and thus the refugees became officially identified and +recognized as Federal officers. + +In company with Lieutenant E. H. Fales, who had been his fellow-prisoner +at Charleston, and effected his escape, Glazier proceeded on horseback +to the headquarters of General Kilpatrick. The General, cordially +welcoming and congratulating Glazier on his happy escape, at once +furnished him with the documents necessary to secure his transportation +to the North. His term of service having expired, he was anxious to +revisit his family, who thought him dead, and bidding an affectionate +adieu to his friend Wright, he and Lieutenant Fales embarked on a +steamship on December twenty-ninth for home. After experiencing the +effects of a severe storm at sea, the vessel arrived at the wharf of +the metropolitan city, and our hero adds: "I awoke to the glorious +realization that I was again breathing the air of my native State. There +was exhilaration and rapture in the thought, which I could not repress, +and that moment is fixed as a golden era in my memory. I hope never to +become so hardened that that patriotic and Christian exultation will be +an unpleasant recollection." + +There have probably been few hearts that beat higher with martial ardor, +than that of Willard Glazier; but at that moment the thought of +"Battle's red carnival" was merged in the gentler recollection of +kindred and friends, rest and home. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVI. + + +GLAZIER RE-ENTERS THE SERVICE. + + + Glazier's determination to re-enter the army.--Letter to Colonel + Harhaus.--Testimonial from Colonel Clarence Buel.--Letter from + Hon. Martin I. Townsend to governor of New York.--Letter from + General Davies.--Letter from General Kilpatrick.--Application for + new commission successful.--Home.--The mother fails to recognize + her son.--Supposed to be dead.--Recognized by his sister + Marjorie.--Filial and fraternal love,--Reports himself to his + commanding officer for duty.--Close of the war and of Glazier's + military career.--Seeks a new object in life.--An idea occurs to + him.--Becomes an author, and finds a publisher. + +Home, with its rest, its peaceful enjoyments and endearments, was no +abiding place for our young soldier while his bleeding country still +battled for the right, and called upon her sons for self-denying service +in her cause. He had registered a vow to remain in the army until +relieved by death, or the termination of the war. His heart and soul +were in the Union cause, and finding that at the expiration of his term +of service he had been mustered out, he had determined before proceeding +to his home to apply for another commission, and, if possible, resume +his place at the front. + +The following letter, which we think stamps his earnest loyalty to the +cause he had espoused, and for which he had already suffered so much, +was addressed to his friend and patron: + + + Astor House, New York, + _January 10th, 1865_. + + Colonel Otto Harhaus, + Late of the Harris Light Cavalry: + + Dear Colonel: Having reached our lines, an escaped prisoner, on the + twenty-third of last month, I at once took steps to ascertain my + position in the old regiment, and regret to say, was informed at + the war department that as my term of service had expired during my + imprisonment; and, as I had not remustered previous to capture, I + was now regarded supernumerary. I wish to remain in the service + until the close of the war, and so expressed myself before I fell + into the hands of the enemy. Fourteen months in rebel prisons has + not increased my respect for "Southern chivalry"--in short I have + some old scores to settle. + + I write, Colonel, to ascertain if you will be kind enough to advise + me what steps I had better take to secure a new commission in the + Cavalry Corps, and to ask if you will favor me with a letter of + recommendation to Governor Fenton. It was suggested to me at + Washington that I should place my case before him, and, if I + conclude to do so, a note from you will be of great value. + + I learn through Captain Downing that I was commissioned a first + lieutenant upon your recommendation soon after my capture. If so, I + avail myself of this opportunity to acknowledge my deep sense of + the favor, and to thank you very cordially for remembering me at a + time when I was entirely dependent upon your impartial decisions + for advancement in your command. + + I made my escape from the rebel prison at Columbia, South Carolina, + November twenty-sixth, 1864, was recaptured December fifteenth by a + Confederate outpost near Springfield, Georgia; escaped a second + time the following day and was retaken by a detachment of Texan + cavalry under General Wheeler; was tried as a spy at Springfield; + escaped a third time from Sylvania on the nineteenth of December, + and reached the Federal lines near Savannah, four days later, and + twenty-eight days after my escape from Columbia. I was at General + Kilpatrick's headquarters on the Ogeechee, December twenty-sixth. + The general was in the most exuberant spirits, and entertained me + with stories of the Great March from Atlanta to the sea. He desired + to be remembered to all the officers and men of his old cavalry + division in Virginia. + + I expect to be mustered out of service to-day, and if so, shall + start this evening for my home in Northern New York, which I have + not visited since entering the army three years ago. + + Soliciting a response at your earliest convenience, + + I have the honor to remain, Colonel, + + Very respectfully, your obedient servant, + Willard Glazier. + + +Impatient of delay in the gratification of his ardent and patriotic +desire to rejoin the army, Glazier also addressed an earnest letter to +Hon. M. I. Townsend, of his native State, accompanying it with the +following glowing testimonial from his late superior officer and +companion in arms, Colonel Clarence Buel: + + + Saratoga Springs, New York, + _February 14th, 1865._ + + Hon. Martin I. Townsend: + + Dear Sir: It is with great pleasure that I introduce to your + acquaintance my friend Lieutenant Willard Glazier. He entered the + service as a private in my company in the "Harris Light Cavalry," + and was promoted for services in the field to his present rank. I + considered him one of the very best and most promising young + officers whom I knew, and his career has only strengthened my + opinion of his merits. After a period of long and gallant service + in the field he had the misfortune to be taken prisoner in a + desperate cavalry fight, and has but recently returned home after + escaping from a terrible confinement of more than a year in the + prison pens at Richmond, Danville, Macon, Savannah, Charleston, and + Columbia. I wish you would take time to hear the modest recital + which he makes of his experience in Southern prisons, and of his + escape; and I feel sure you will agree with me, that he is worthy + of any interest you may take in him. + + He is desirous of re-entering the service as soon as he can procure + a commission in any way equal to his deserts; and I told him that I + knew of no one who could give him more valuable aid than yourself + in his patriotic purpose. I do most cordially commend him to your + consideration, and shall esteem anything you may do for him as a + great personal favor. With very sincere regards, + + I am, your obedient friend and servant, + Clarence Buel. + + +Hon. Martin I. Townsend, on receipt of Colonel Buel's flattering +introduction, at once interested himself in Glazier's behalf; and after +fully investigating his military record handed him the following to the +Governor of New York State: + + + Troy, New York, + _February 15th, 1865._ + + His Excellency R. E. Fenton, Governor of New York: + + Dear Sir: Willard Glazier, late of the "Harris Light Cavalry," who + served with honor as a lieutenant in that regiment, is a most + excellent young patriot, and has many well-wishers in our city. He + desires to enter the service again. I take the liberty to solicit + for him a commission. No appointment would be more popular here, + and I undertake to say, without hesitation, that I know of no more + deserving young officer. His heart was always warm in the service, + and he now has fifteen months of most barbarous cruelty, practised + on him while a prisoner, to avenge. + + Very respectfully yours, + Martin I. Townsend. + + +His former commanders, Generals H. E. Davies and Judson Kilpatrick, also +bore their willing testimony to the qualifications and merits of our +young subaltern in the following handsome manner: + + + Headquarters, First Brigade, Cavalry Division, + Near Culpepper, Va., + + _February 16th, 1865._ + + To His Excellency Hon. R. E. Fenton: + + Lieutenant Willard Glazier, formerly of the Second New York + Cavalry, served in the regiment under my immediate command, for + more than two years, until his capture by the enemy. + + He joined the regiment as an enlisted man, and served in that + capacity with courage and ability, and for good conduct was + recommended for and received a commission as second lieutenant. As + an officer he did his duty well, and on several occasions behaved + with great gallantry, and with good judgment. Owing to a long + imprisonment, I learn he has been rendered supernumerary in his + regiment, and mustered out of service. I can recommend him highly + as an officer, and as well worthy to receive a commission. + + Very respectfully, + H. E. Davies, Jr., + Brigadier-General U. S. Volunteers. + + + Headquarters Cavalry Command, M. D. M., + Near Savannah, Georgia, _December 27th, 1864_. + + Lieutenant Willard Glazier, Harris Light Cavalry: + + Lieutenant: I take great pleasure in expressing to you my high + appreciation of your many soldierly qualities. I well remember the + fact that you were once a private in the old regiment I had the + honor to command; and that by attention to duty and good conduct + _alone_, you received promotion. You have my best wishes for your + future advancement, and may command my influence at all times. + + Very respectfully and truly yours, + Judson Kilpatrick, + Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers. + + +His application was crowned with success, and upon the twenty-fifth of +February, 1865, he received his commission as First Lieutenant in the +Twenty-sixth Regiment, New York Cavalry. + +Not until this important matter was satisfactorily arranged would our +young lieutenant turn his face towards home. He had been absent about +three years, and a report had reached his family that he had died in +prison at Columbia. + +With his commission in his pocket, he now allowed thoughts of home to +occupy his mind, and proceeded thither without the loss of a moment. On +reaching the homestead which had been the scene of his birth, and of the +adventures of his boyhood, he knocked and entered, and his mother met +him at the threshold. Three years between the ages of sixteen and +nineteen, especially after vicissitudes and sufferings such as he had +endured, effect changes in the features and height and general +appearance, much more pronounced than a similar interval would produce +at a later or an earlier period of life. The mother did not recognize +her son; and seeing this, he did not announce himself, but inquired if +any news had recently been received of her son Willard, who, he said, +was in the same regiment as himself. She answered that her son was +_dead_--she had seen his name in the death-record of the prison of +Columbia, and asked earnestly concerning him. By this time his sister +Marjorie, with three years added to her stature, but still in her teens, +entered the room, and, looking fixedly at the stranger's solemn +countenance, exclaimed, with a thrilling outcry: "Why, that's Will!" The +spell was broken, and mother and son, sister and brother, amid smiles +and sobs, embraced, and the young soldier, "who was dead and is alive," +was welcomed to the fond hearts of those who had grieved over his loss. + +Filial and fraternal love was a trait in Glazier's character which +claims a few words. A dutiful son and an affectionate brother, he had +never neglected an opportunity of assisting and furthering the interests +of his family. Before entering the army he had contributed of his scant +earnings as a teacher towards the education of his three sisters, and +during his service in the war had, from time to time, as he received his +pay, made remittances home for the same unselfish purpose. On being +mustered out of the army, the government had paid him the sum of $500, +and this sum he now generously handed over to his parents to be also +expended in perfecting the education of his sisters. + +Lieutenant Glazier now hastened to report himself to the commanding +officer of his regiment, and displayed all his wonted energy and +devotion to the cause of the Union. He served faithfully and honorably +until the mighty hosts of the Federal army melted back into quiet +citizenship, with nothing to distinguish them from other citizens but +their scars and the proud consciousness of having SERVED AND SAVED +THEIR COUNTRY. + + * * * * * + +This brief history of the military career of a remarkable man would not +be complete without some account of his life subsequent to the +dissolution of the great army of volunteers. Willard Glazier's conduct +as a soldier formed an earnest of his future good citizenship--his +devotion to duty at the front, a foreshadow of his enterprise and +success in the business of life. + +Having been honorably mustered out, he lost no time in looking about for +an occupation. Joining the volunteer army when a mere youth, his +opportunities of learning a profession had been very limited, and he +consequently now found himself without any permanent means of support. +His education had been necessarily interrupted by the breaking out of +the war, and his chief anxiety, now that the struggle was over, was to +enter college and complete his studies. + +This desire was very intense in our young citizen-soldier, and absorbed +all his thoughts; but where to find the means for its accomplishment he +was at a loss to discover. In ponderings upon this subject from day to +day, an idea suddenly occurred to him, which formed an epoch in his +life, and the development of which has proved it to have been the basis +of a successful and useful career. The _idea_ that has borne fruit was +this: During the period of his service in the war he had kept a diary. +Herein he had recorded his experiences from day to day, adding such +brief comments as the events called for, and time and opportunity +permitted. This diary he always kept upon his person, and while on a +long and hurried march, or in a battle with the enemy, his _vade mecum_ +would be, of necessity, occasionally neglected, no sooner did the +opportunity offer than his mind wandered back over the few days' +interval since the previous entry, and each event of interest was duly +chronicled. Again during the period of his confinement in Southern +prisons, sick, and subjected to most inhuman treatment and privation, +and while escaping from his brutal captors, concealed in the swamps +during the day, tired, hungry, and cold, his diary was never forgotten, +albeit, the entries were frequently made under the greatest +difficulties, such as to most men would have proved insurmountable. + +This journal was now in his possession. He had stirred the souls of +relatives and friends by reading from it accounts of bloody scenes +through which he had passed; of cruelties practised upon him and his +brother-patriots in Southern bastiles; of his various attempts to +escape, and pursuit by blood-hounds and their barbarous masters. The +story of his war experiences entranced hundreds of eager listeners +around his home, and the idea that now occurred to him, while anxiously +pondering the ways and means of paying his college fees, was, that his +story might possibly, by the aid of his diary, be arranged in the form +of a book, and if he were fortunate enough to find a sale for it, the +profits would probably furnish the very thing he stood so much in need +of. + +Prompt in everything, the thought no sooner occurred to the young +candidate for college honors than he proceeded to reduce it to action. +He forthwith commenced arranging the facts and dates from the diary; +constructed sentences in plain Saxon English; the work grew upon him; +he "fought his battles o'er again;" was again captured, imprisoned and +escaped; the work continued to grow, and at the end of six weeks' hard +application, always keeping his _object_ in view, Willard Glazier, the +young cavalryman, found himself an author--_i. e._, in manuscript. + +Not a little surprised and gratified to discover that he possessed the +gift of putting his thoughts in a readable form, he now felt hopeful +that the day was not distant when the desire of his soul to enter +college would be realized. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVII. + + +CAREER AS AN AUTHOR. + + + Glazier in search of a publisher for "Capture, Prison-Pen and + Escape."--Spends his last dollar.--Lieutenant Richardson a friend + in need.--Joel Munsell, of Albany, consents to publish.--The + author solicits subscriptions for his work before + publication.--Succeeds.--Captain Hampton.--R. H. + Ferguson.--Captain F. C. Lord.--Publication and sale of first + edition.--Great success.--Pays his publisher in full.--Still + greater successes.--Finally attains an enormous sale.--Style of + the work.--Extracts.--Opinions of the press. + +Still very young, and knowing nothing of the trade of the Publisher, +Glazier found his way to the Empire City, and, manuscript in hand, +presented himself before some of her leading publishers--among them, the +Harpers, Appletons, Carleton, Sheldon and others. + +To these gentlemen he showed his manuscript, and received courteous +recognition from each; but the terms they offered were not of a +character to tempt him. They would publish his book and pay him a small +royalty on their sales. His faith in his manuscript led him to expect +more substantial results. The subject of the work was one of absorbing +interest at the time, and if he had handled it properly, he knew the +book must meet with a commensurate sale. He therefore determined, if +possible, to find a publisher willing to make it to his order, and leave +him to manipulate the sale himself. He was already in possession of +many unsolicited orders for it, and although knowing nothing of the +subscription-book business, determined that, when printed, his book +should be brought out by subscription. + +Meanwhile, he was, unfortunately, like many incipient authors, without +capital, and could not therefore remain longer in New York for lack of +means, having literally nothing left wherewith to defray even his board +or procure a lodging. He was, consequently, compelled to leave if he +could obtain the means of doing so. He had arrived in New York with +sanguine expectations of readily meeting with a publisher, but +discovered, from bitter experience, as many others have done, that +authors and publishers not unfrequently view their interests from +divergent points. Courteous but cool, they offered the unknown author +little encouragement, who, but for this, would have made the metropolis +the starting-point in his successful literary career. + +At this juncture he called on Lieutenant Arthur Richardson, an old +comrade of the "Harris Light," who had also been his fellow-prisoner, +and was then residing in New York. To him he confided his difficulty in +finding a publisher for his book, and his extremely straitened +circumstances, at the same time stating his strong wish to return, if +possible, to Albany, where he was known. Without ceremony and without +conditions Richardson generously handed him twenty dollars, and, with +this godsend in hand, Glazier at once returned to Albany. + +Arrived in the capital of his native State, he lost no time in calling +on the bookmen of that city, and among them, fortunately, on Mr. Joel +Munsell, of 82 State street. This gentleman, well known for his +learning and probity throughout the State, and far beyond its limits, +combined the profession of an author with the more lucrative one of +publisher and bookseller, and was pre-eminently in good standing as a +worthy citizen and man of business. + +Glazier introduced himself, and once more produced his fateful +manuscript for inspection. Mr. Munsell glanced at it through his +glasses, and candidly admitted the subject to be one of great interest, +adding that he also thought the manuscript was carefully written, and +spoke in general complimentary terms of the author and his production. + +Glazier, elated with this praise, at once asked to have the work +stereotyped and made into a book of some four hundred pages, with ten +illustrations. Mr. Munsell would be only too ready to fill the order, +but politely suggested, as a preliminary condition, an advance of two +hundred dollars! Our author modestly confessed, without hesitation, that +he was not worth two hundred cents; had no means of obtaining such a +sum, and could therefore advance nothing. The worthy old gentleman was +startled, and answered that such was the custom of the trade. He then +inquired if Glazier had any friends who would endorse a note for the +amount at thirty days. The reply was that he had none; that he would +exert himself to obtain a small sum from army friends, and if he +succeeded, would hand it over to him; that his only capital at present +was his conduct and character as a soldier, for testimony to which he +would refer to his late commanding officer, "and," he added, "faith in +the success of my book." He further offered to solicit subscriptions for +the book himself before publication, and report the result to the +publisher. + +[Illustration: Interview With Joel Munsell.] + +Mr. Munsell, pleased with his appearance and ingenuousness, hinted at +the purchase of the manuscript, but the proposal being respectfully +declined, inquired, if the writer undertook to sell the book himself, +would he "stick to it." "Yes!" was the emphatic answer, "until +everything is fully paid for." + +The reply of Munsell was equally prompt and decisive: "I have never in +all the years I have been in business published a work under such +circumstances, _but I will get that book out for you_." Glazier thanked +the worthy man, and expressed a hope that he would never have occasion +to regret his generous deed; he would place the manuscript in his hands +forthwith. + +He then set out to solicit subscriptions for his work, and without +prospectus, circular, or any of the usual paraphernalia of a +solicitor--with nothing but his own unsupported representations of the +quality of his projected book, succeeded in obtaining a very +considerable number of orders. These he hastened to hand over to Joel +Munsell, who was now confirmed in his good opinion of the writer, and +the promising character of the venture. + +Thus our young soldier-author was fortunate enough to find a publisher +and a friend in need. A contract was drawn up, and feeling that his +prospects were now somewhat assured, he ventured to write to his +comrade, and late fellow-prisoner, Captain Hampton, of Rochester, New +York, for the loan of fifty dollars. This sum was promptly sent him, and +he at once handed it over to his publisher. Mr. R. H. Ferguson, late of +the "Harris Light," also generously came forward to the assistance of +his former comrade and tent-mate, and advanced him one hundred dollars +to help on the work. + +It may be stated here, that the friendship of Ferguson and Glazier dated +from before the war, while the latter, a mere youth, was teaching school +near Troy, in Rensselaer County, New York: that together, on the summons +to arms, they enlisted in the Harris Light Cavalry; together went to the +seat of war; that both fell into the hands of the rebels and had +experience of Southern prisons; and that both effected their escape +after the endurance of much suffering. Finally, their friendship and +common career resulted in a business connection which was attended with +considerable success, Mr. Ferguson having become the publisher of some +of Captain Glazier's subsequent writings. Captain Frederick C. Lord, of +Naugatuck, Connecticut, also contributed to Glazier's need, and enabled +him by the opportune loan of twenty-five dollars to defray his board +bill while waiting anxiously upon Munsell in the reading of proofs, and +soliciting subscriptions in advance. + +To return to the first work of our young author, now in the hands of +Joel Munsell, of Albany, which was entitled "The Capture, Prison-Pen and +Escape;" the first edition consisted of five hundred copies, which +Glazier by his energy disposed of in a few days, handing over the +proceeds to the publisher. At the end of six months he had called for +several editions of his book, and sold them all through the +instrumentality of solicitors selected by himself, some of them maimed +soldiers of the war, paid Mr. Munsell in full, and had himself three +thousand dollars in hand. Success is the mother of success. + +Having prospered thus far beyond his expectations, he was anxious to add +to his store. Visions of large sales over other territory than his +native State of New York presented themselves to his eager mind; the +book was purchased by the public as soon as it was published; reviewers +spoke in enthusiastic praise of its merits. It was not a pretentious +work--the author was simply a young man and a patriot. But passages of +great beauty and of painful interest pervaded it, alternated with vivid +descriptions of battles in which the writer had himself shared. A +veteran author need not have been ashamed of many of its glowing pages. +Lofty patriotism, heroic fortitude, and moral purity, characterized it +throughout. + +The account given of the sufferings of our soldiers while in the +prison-pens of the South, and of his own and his comrades' while +effecting their escape to the Federal lines, are so vividly portrayed, +that our feelings are intensely enlisted in their behalf, and our minds +wander to their dreary abodes--in thought sharing their sufferings and +their sorrows. + +Encouraged by his success in this new vocation our young author +resolved, for the present at least, to postpone going to college, and +devote himself to the sale of his book, by the simple agency before +mentioned. This resolution cannot be considered surprising when we +reflect upon the great amount of prosperity he had met with, and the +prospect before him of attaining still greater advantage from a business +upon which he had, by the merest accident, ventured. The college scheme +was at length finally abandoned as the business continued to increase. +"The Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape" ultimately reached the enormous +sale of over four hundred thousand copies; larger by many thousands than +that most extensively circulated and deservedly popular book, "Uncle +Tom's Cabin," had ever attained to, inclusive of its sale in Europe. + +The first book written and published by Willard Glazier is of a +character to surprise us, when we consider the antecedents of the writer +up to the date of its publication, December, 1865. Enlisting in the +ranks of a cavalry regiment at the age of eighteen, during the exciting +period of the civil war; a participant in many of its sanguinary +battles; captured by the enemy and imprisoned under circumstances of the +greatest trial and discouragement, his position and surroundings were +not a very promising school for the training of an author. The book he +produced is, in our judgment, not unworthy of comparison with the +immortal work of Defoe, with this qualification in our author's favor +that "Robinson Crusoe" is a fiction, while Glazier's is a true story of +real adventure undergone by the writer and his comrades of the Union +army. + +His style in narrating his adventures is admirably adapted to the +subject; while the simple, unpretentious manner in which he describes +the terrible scenes he witnessed, and passed through, enlists the +reader's interest in the work, and sympathy for the modest writer +himself. By the publication of this book, Glazier stamped his name upon +his country's roll of honor, and at the same time laid the foundation of +his fortune. + +As a specimen of his easy flowing style we give part of the opening +chapter of "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape:" + +"The first battle of Bull Run was fought July twenty-first, 1861, and +the shock of arms was felt throughout the land, carrying triumph to the +South, and to the North dismay. Our proud and confident advance into +'Dixie' was not only checked, but turned into a disastrous rout. The +patriotic but unwarlike enthusiasm of the country, which had hoped to +crush the rebellion with seventy-five thousand men, was temporarily +stifled. But the chilling was only like that of the first stealthy drops +of the thunder-gust upon a raging fire, which breaks out anew and with +increased vigor when the tempest fans it with its fury, and now burns in +spite of a deluge of rain. The chill had passed and the fever was +raging. From the great centres of national life went forth warm currents +of renovating public opinion, which reached the farthest hamlet on our +frontiers. Every true man was grasping the stirring questions of the +day, and was discussing them with his family at his own fireside, and +the rebellion was just as surely doomed as when Grant received the +surrender of Lee's army. In a deeper and broader sense than before, the +country was rising to meet the emergency, and northern patriotism, now +thoroughly aroused, was sweeping everything before it. Everywhere +resounded the cry, 'To arms!' and thousands upon thousands were +responding to the President's call. + +"It was under these circumstances that I enlisted, as a private soldier, +at Troy, New York, on the sixth day of August, in a company raised by +Captain Clarence Buel, for the Second Regiment of New York Cavalry. It +is needless to make elaborate mention of the motives which induced me to +enter the service, or the emotions which then filled my breast; they can +be readily conjectured by every loyal heart." + +The Press, throughout the North (and West, as far as its circulation had +reached), spoke very highly of the production and of its author, all +bearing the same testimony to its excellence and truthfulness. The +Albany _Evening Post_ says: + + "'The Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape' is the title of an intensely + interesting work, giving a complete history of prison-life in the + South. The book is at once accurate, graphic and admirably written. + It is full of adventure, and quite as readable as a romance. A + person who reads this volume will have a better idea of what it + cost in the way of blood, suffering and courage, to preserve the + Republic, than he can now possibly entertain." + +The Cleveland _Daily Leader_ writes: + + "We have had the pleasure of reading this book. It describes, in + the most graphic and interesting style, the prison-life of Union + soldiers in the South, their plans of escape, and their various + trials and hardships there. The history contained in the book is + very valuable. The Press, all over the land, speaks very highly of + it, and we can do naught but add our commendations to the rest." + +The New York _Reformer_ exclaims: + + "From the title-page to its close, the volume is full of fresh + incidents, attracting the reader on, from page to page, with + unbroken, though at times with melancholy, at others indignant, and + at others wrathful, interest." + +[Illustration: Calvary.--foraging Party Returning To Camp.] + + + + +CHAPTER XXVIII. + + +"THREE YEARS IN THE FEDERAL CAVALRY." + + + Another work by Captain Glazier.--"Three Years in the Federal + Cavalry."--Daring deeds of the Light Dragoons.--Extracts from the + work.--Night attack on Falmouth Heights.--Kilpatrick's + stratagem.--Flight of the enemy.--Capture of Falmouth.--Burial of + Lieutenant Decker.--Incidents at "Brandy Station."--"Harris + Light" and "Tenth New York."--"Men of Maine, you must save the + day!"--Position won.--Some Press reviews of the work. + +Through earnest and continued application our soldier-author had, in the +meantime, produced another book of equal merit with his first. This he +named, "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry." It is a work of thrilling +interest, and contains much of history relating to the Civil War, and +more especially to the cavalry service. It was the opinion of Captain +Glazier that the Union cavalry had never been properly appreciated, and +for this reason he took up his pen in its defense. He narrates the +daring deeds of our Light Dragoons, their brilliant achievements during +the first three eventful years of the war; and his own personal +experiences are pictured with a vividness of color and an enthusiasm of +manner which carry the reader straight to the field of action. + +We quote the following brief but graphic description of the opening of +the great Rebellion, as a specimen of the style of this second product +of his intellect: + +"The eleventh of April, 1861, revealed the real intention of the +Southern people in their unprovoked assault upon Fort Sumpter. The +thunder of rebel cannon shook the air not only around Charleston, but +sent its thrilling vibrations to the remotest sections of the country, +and was the precursor of a storm whose wrath no one anticipated. This +shock of arms was like a fire-alarm in our great cities, and the North +arose in its might with a grand unanimity which the South did not +expect. The spirit and principle of rebellion were so uncaused and +unprovoked, that scarcely could any one be found at home or abroad to +justify them. + +"President Lincoln thereupon issued a call for seventy-five thousand men +to uphold and vindicate the authority of the government, and to prove, +if possible, that secession was not only a heresy in doctrine, but an +impracticability in the American Republic. The response to this call was +much more general than the most sanguine had any reason to look for. The +enthusiasm of the people was quite unbounded. Individuals encouraged +individuals; families aroused families; communities vied with +communities, and States strove with States. Who could be the first and +do the most, was the noble contention which everywhere prevailed. All +political party lines seemed to be obliterated. Under this renovating +and inspiring spirit the work of raising the nucleus of the grandest +army that ever swept a continent went bravely on. Regiments were rapidly +organized, and as rapidly as possible sent forward to the seat of +government; and so vast was the number that presented themselves for +their country's defence, that the original call was soon more than +filled, and the authorities found themselves unable to accept many +organizations which were eager to press into the fray. + +"Meanwhile the great leaders of the rebellion were marshalling the +hordes of treason, and assembling them on the plains of Manassas, with +the undoubted intention of moving upon the national capital. This point +determined the principal theatre of the opening contest, and around it +on every side, and particularly southward, was to be the aceldama of +America, the dreadful 'field of blood.' + +"The first great impulse of the authorities was in the direction of +self-defence, and Washington was fortified and garrisoned. This done, it +was believed that the accumulating forces of the Union, which had become +thoroughly equipped and somewhat disciplined, ought to advance into the +revolted Territory, scatter the defiant hosts of the enemy, and put a +speedy end to the slave-holders' rebellion." + +Again we quote a description of an incident of the cavalry fight at +Brandy Station: + +"At a critical moment, when the formidable and ever increasing hosts of +the enemy were driving our forces from a desirable position we sought to +gain, and when it seemed as though disaster to our arms would be fatal, +Kilpatrick's battle-flag was seen advancing, followed by the tried +squadrons of the 'Harris Light,' the 'Tenth New York,' and the 'First +Maine.' In echelons of squadrons his brigade was quickly formed, and he +advanced, like a storm-cloud, upon the rebel cavalry, which filled the +field before him. The 'Tenth New York' received the first shock of the +rebel charge, but was hurled back, though not in confusion. The 'Harris +Light' met with no better success, and, notwithstanding their prestige +and power, they were repulsed under the very eye of their chief, whose +excitement at the scene was well-nigh uncontrollable. His flashing eye +now turned to the 'First Maine,' a regiment composed mostly of heavy, +sturdy men, who had not been engaged as yet during the day; and, riding +to the head of the column, he shouted, 'Men of Maine, you must save the +day! Follow me!' With one simultaneous war-cry these giants of the North +moved forward in one solid mass upon the flank of the rebel columns. The +shock was overwhelming, and the opposing lines crumbled like a 'bowing +wall' before this wild rush of prancing horses, gleaming sabres, and +rattling balls. + +"On rode Kilpatrick, with the 'men of Maine,' and, on meeting the two +regiments of his brigade, which had been repulsed, and were returning +from the front, the General's voice rang out like trumpet notes, above +the din of battle, 'Back, the "Harris Light!" Back, the "Tenth New +York!" Reform your squadrons and charge!' With magical alacrity the +order was obeyed, and the two regiments, which had been so humbled by +their first reverse, now rushed into the fight with a spirit and success +which redeemed them from censure, and accounted them worthy of their +gallant leader. The commanding position was won; a battery, lost in a +previous charge, was re-captured, and an effectual blow was given to the +enemy, which greatly facilitated the movements which followed." + +From numerous press notices, eulogistic of this work, which appeared +shortly after its publication, we select the following from the Chicago +_Times_: + + "For the thousands of warriors who entered upon life too late to + participate in the war of the rebellion; for the thousands who + entered upon life too soon to be permitted a sight of its glorious + and hideous scenes; for the thousands who snuffed the smoke of + battle from afar; no better book could have been produced than this + 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry.' ... It tells them in + thrilling and glowing language of the most exciting phases of the + contests.... It is a book that will thrill the heart of every old + soldier who reads its historic pages.... The author carries his + readers into every scene which he depicts. Throughout the book one + is impressed with the idea that he saw all that he describes.... + The triumphs, the despondencies, the sufferings, the joys of the + troops, are feelingly and vigorously painted.... His book is a + noble tribute to the gallant horsemen, who have too often been + overlooked." + +The Syracuse _Herald_ remarks: + + "Among the newest, and we may truly say the best of the books on + the civil war, is a work by the widely-known author, Captain + Willard Glazier, entitled 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry.'... + Its pages teem with word-painting of hair-breadth escapes, of + marches, of countermarches, bivouacs and battles without number. + Stirring memories of Brandy Station, Chantilly, Antietam, + Fredericksburg, Yorktown, Falmouth and Gettysburg, are roused by + the masterly _raconteur_, until in October, 1864, just beyond New + Baltimore, the gallant captain was captured, and for a year + languished in 'durance vile.' The interest in the narrative never + flags, but rather increases with each succeeding page. For those + who love to fight their battles o'er again, or those who love to + read of war's alarms, this volume will prove most welcome." + +The New York _Tribune_ is + + "Sure that 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' will meet with the + same generous reception from the reading public that has been given + to the former works of this talented young author. The fact that + Captain Glazier was an eye-witness and participant in the thrilling + scenes of which he writes, lends additional interest to the work." + +The New York _Star_ says: + + "'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' brings to light many daring + deeds upon the part of the Union heroes, that have never yet been + recorded, and gives an insight into the conduct of the war which + historians, who write but do not fight, could not possibly give. It + is full of incident, and one of the most interesting books upon the + war that we have read." + +From the New York _Globe_ we cull the following: + + "To a returned soldier nothing is more welcome than conversation + touching his experience 'in the field' with his companions, and + next to this a good book written by one who has known 'how it is + himself,' and who recounts vividly the scenes of strife through + which he has passed. Such a work is 'Three Years in the Federal + Cavalry.' Captain Glazier's experiences are portrayed in a manner + at once interesting to the veteran, and instructive and + entertaining to those who have but snuffed the battle from afar. An + old soldier will never drop this book for an instant, if he once + begins it, until every word has been read. There is an air of truth + pervading every page which chains the veteran to it until he is + stared in the face with 'Finis.' The details and influences of + camp-life, the preparations for active duty, the weary marches to + the battle-field, the bivouac at night, the fierce hand-to-hand + strife, the hospital, the dying volunteer, the dead one--buried in + his blanket by the pale light of the moon, far, far away from those + he loves--the defeat and victory--every scene, in fact, familiar to + the eye and ear of the 'boy in blue,' is here most truthfully and + clearly photographed, and the soldier is once more transported back + to the days of the rebellion. Captain Glazier's style is easy and + explicit. He makes no endeavor to be poetic or eloquent, but tells + his story in a straightforward manner, occasionally, however, + approaching eloquence in spite of himself. We cheerfully and + earnestly commend 'Three Years in the Federal Cavalry' to the + public as a most readable, entertaining and instructive volume." + +[Illustration: A Cavalry Bivouac] + +Among the manifold testimonials we have seen to the merits of this work, +the following from the poetic pen of Mrs. Maud Louise Brainerd, of +Elmira, New York, is at once beautiful and eloquent of praise, and +must not therefore be omitted from the chaplet we are weaving for the +brow of the 'soldier-author:' + + "Have you heard of our Union Cavalry, + As Glazier tells the story? + Of the dashing boys of the 'Cavalry Corps,' + And their daring deeds of glory? + + "This modest volume holds it all, + Their brave exploits revealing, + Told as a comrade tells the tale, + With all a comrade's feeling. + + "The Union camp-fires blaze anew, + Upon these faithful pages, + Anew we tremble while we read + How hot the warfare rages. + + "We hear again the shock of arms, + The cannon's direful thunder, + And feel once more the wild suspense + That then our hearts throbbed under. + + "The deeds of heroes live again + Amid the battle crashes, + As, Phoenix-like, the dead take form + And rise from out their ashes. + + "Where darkest hangs the cloud and smoke, + Where weaker men might falter, + The brave Phil Kearney lays his life + Upon his country's altar. + + "Kilpatrick's legions thunder by, + With furious clang and clatter, + Rushing where duty sternly leads, + To life or death--no matter! + + "Oh, hero-warriors, patriots true! + Within your graves now lying, + How bright on History's page to-day + Shines out your fame undying! + + "The pomp and panoply of war + Have vanished; all the glitter + Of charging columns, marching hosts + And battles long and bitter, + + "Recede with the receding years, + Wrapped in old Time's dim shadow; + Where once the soil drank patriot gore, + Green, now, grow field and meadow. + + "But here the written record stands + Of all that time of glory, + And bright through every age shall live + These names in song and story. + + "Willard Glazier wrote his name + First in war's deeds, then slipping + His fingers off the sword, he found + The mightier pen more fitting. + + "Read but the book--'twill summon back + The spirits now immortal, + Who bravely died for fatherland + And passed the heavenly portal!" + +Such was the demand for the work that one hundred and seventy-five +thousand copies of it were sold, and we may safely predicate that in the +homes of thousands of veterans scattered all over the land, the book has +been a source of profound interest in the help it has afforded them in +recounting to family and friends the thrilling events of their war +experience. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIX. + + +"BATTLES FOR THE UNION." + + + "Battles for the Union."--Extracts.--Bull Run.--Brandy + Station.--Manassas.--Gettysburg.--Pittsburg Landing.--Surrender + of General Lee.--Opinions of the press.--Philadelphia "North + American."--Pittsburg "Commercial."--Chicago + "Inter-Ocean."--Scranton "Republican."--Wilkes-Barre "Record of + the Times."--Reading "Eagle."--Albany "Evening Journal." + +"Battles for the Union,"--published by Dustin Gilman and Company, +Hartford, Connecticut--was the next work that emanated from our soldier +author's prolific pen. The most stubbornly contested battles of the +great Rebellion herein find forcible and picturesque description. "I +have endeavored," Glazier writes in his preface to this interesting +work, "in 'Battles for the Union' to present, in the most concise and +simple form, the great contests in the war for the preservation of the +Republic of the United States;" and as evidence of the manner in which +this task was undertaken, we shall again present to the reader some +passages from the work itself. + +As an illustration of descriptive clearness and force, combined with +conciseness and simplicity of narrative, we present the opening of the +chapter on Bull Run: + +"The field of Bull Run and the plains of Manassas will never lose their +interest for the imaginative young or the patriotic old; for on this +field and over these plains are scattered the bones of more than forty +thousand brave men of both North and South, who have met in mortal +combat and laid down their lives in defence of their principles. + +"On the twenty-first of July, 1861, was fought the battle of Bull Run, +the first of a long series of engagements on these historic plains. The +battles of Bristoe, Groveton, Manassas, Centreville, and Chantilly +succeeded in 1862, and in the summer and autumn of 1863 followed the +cavalry actions at Aldie, Middleburg, Upperville, and New Baltimore. + +"No battle-ground on the continent of America can present to the +generations yet to come such a gigantic Roll of Honor. Here also was +displayed the best military talent, the keenest strategy, and the +highest engineering skill of our civil war. Here were assembled the +great representative leaders of slavery and freedom. Here Scott, +McDowell, Pope, and Meade on the Federal side, and Beauregard, Johnson, +and Lee on the Confederate side, have in turn held the reins of battle +and shared both victory and defeat. + +"The action which resulted in the fall of Fort Sumter developed +extraordinary talent in the rebel General P. G. T. Beauregard, and +brought him conspicuously before the Confederate government. Called for +by the unanimous voice of the Southern people, he was now ordered to +take command of the main portion of the Confederate army in northern +Virginia. He selected Manassas Junction as his base of operations, and +established his outposts near Fairfax Court-House, seventeen miles from +Washington. + +"General Beauregard's forces, on the line of Bull Run, numbered on the +sixteenth of July nearly forty thousand men, and sixty-four pieces of +artillery, together with a considerable body of cavalry. The threatening +attitude of this force, almost within sight of the National capital, led +General Scott to concentrate the Union forces in that quarter with a +view to meeting the Confederates in battle, and, if possible, giving a +death-blow to the rebellion. + +"Ludicrous, indeed, in the light of subsequent events, was the general +conviction of the hostile sections, that a single decisive engagement +would terminate the war. Little did the Unionists then know of the +ambitious designs of the pro-slavery leaders, and still less did the +uneducated, misguided masses of the South know of the patriotism, +resources, and invincible determination of the North. On both sides +there was great popular anxiety for a general battle to determine the +question of relative manhood: and especially on the side of the South, +from an impression that one distinct and large combat resulting in its +favor, and showing conspicuously its superior valor, would alarm the +North sufficiently to lead it to abandon the war. The New York +_Tribune_, which was supposed at that time to be a faithful +representative of the sentiment and temper of the North, said, on the +nineteenth of July, 1861: 'We have been most anxious that this struggle +should be submitted at the earliest moment to the ordeal of a fair, +decisive battle. Give the Unionists a fair field, equal weapons and +equal numbers, and we ask no more. Should the rebel forces at all +justify the vaunts of their journalistic trumpeters, we shall candidly +admit the fact. If they can beat double the number of Unionists, they +can end the struggle on their own terms. + +"A field for the grand combat was soon found, but its results were +destined to disappoint both the victors and the vanquished. The South +had looked forward to this field for an acknowledgment of its +independence; the North for a downfall of the rebellion." + +The chapter on "Brandy Station" affords several illustrations of our +author's glowing descriptive power, thus: + +"The words Brandy Station will ever excite a multitude of thrilling +memories in the minds of all cavalrymen who saw service in Virginia, for +this was the grand cavalry battle-ground of the war. + +"On these historic plains our Bayard, Stoneman, and Pleasanton have +successively led their gallant troopers against the commands of Stuart, +Lee, and Hampton. The twentieth of August, 1862, the ninth of June, +twelfth of September, and eleventh of October, 1863, are days which +cannot soon be forgotten by the 'Boys in Blue' who crossed sabres with +the Confederates at Brandy Station. + +"Converging and diverging roads at this point quite naturally brought +the cavalry of the contending armies together whenever we advanced to, +or retired from, the Rapidan. Being both the advance and rear-guard of +the opposing forces, our horsemen always found themselves face to face +with the foe on this field; in fact, most of our cavalrymen were so +confident of a fight here, that as soon as we discovered that we were +approaching the station we prepared for action by tightening our +saddle-girths and inspecting our arms. + +"Upon the withdrawal of the Army of the Potomac from the Peninsula, +General Lee, contemplating the invasion of Maryland and Pennsylvania, +started his army northward with the view, no doubt, of driving Pope +from northern Virginia, and carrying the Confederate standard into the +loyal States. The battle of Cedar Mountain temporarily checked his +forward movement and compelled him to retire to the south bank of the +Rapidan. The reappearance of rebel skirmishers at the various fords of +the river on the morning of August the eighteenth, 1862, was an evidence +to our pickets that the enemy was about to resume hostilities. + +"General Pope at once ordered his artillery and infantry to retire +beyond the Rappahannock, while General Bayard, commanding the cavalry, +was charged with covering the rear of the retiring army. We disputed the +advance of the rebels so stubbornly that they found no opportunity to +interfere with the retreat of the main column. The morning of the +twentieth found the 'Harris Light,' Tenth New York, First Pennsylvania, +First Maine, First Rhode Island, and First New Jersey Cavalry, +bivouacked at Brandy Station. + +"The engagement opened at six o'clock by an attack of Stuart's cavalry +upon the 'Harris Light' acting as rear-guard of Bayard's brigade. + +"This preliminary onset was speedily repulsed by the 'Harris Light,' +which regiment kept the enemy in check until General Bayard had gained +sufficient time to enable him to form his command at a more favorable +point, two miles north of the station, on the direct road to the +Rappahannock. Here the 'Harris Light' led by Colonel Kilpatrick and +Major Davies, again charged the advanced regiments of the Confederate +column, thus opening the series of memorable conflicts at Brandy +Station, and adding fresh laurels to its already famous record. A deep +cut in a hill, through which the Orange and Alexandria Railroad passes, +checked our pursuit, else we should have captured many prisoners. The +First New Jersey and First Pennsylvania coming to our relief enabled us +to reform our broken squadrons, and, as Pope had instructed General +Bayard not to bring on a general engagement, the cavalry now crossed the +Rappahannock and awaited the orders of the general-in-chief." + +The following description of "Manassas or Second Bull Run" shows great +mastery of his subject, and the possession of a facile and impartial +pen: + +"On the twenty-ninth of August, 1862, the storm of battle again broke +over the plains of Manassas, and surged furiously along the borders of +Bull Run creek and down the Warrenton pike. The figure of General Franz +Sigel stands out in bold relief against the background of battle, the +first actor appearing on the scene in this drama of war and death. + +"The time is daybreak, and the rosy light of early dawn, so peaceful and +so pure, flushes the sky in painful contrast to the scenes of strife and +bloodshed below. + +"At noon on the day previous, General Pope had ordered Reno, Kearney and +Hooker to follow Jackson, who, through the miscarriage of well-laid +plans, had been allowed to escape in the direction of Centreville. +McDowell's command, then on the way to Manassas, was ordered to march to +Centreville, while Porter was directed to come forward to Manassas +Junction. The orders were promptly executed by the various commands, +excepting that of Fitz-John Porter, who unaccountably on loyal +principles, remained inactive during the ensuing contest. Kearney drove +the enemy out of Centreville, and in their retreat along the Warrenton +Road they encountered the division of King, McDowell's advance, marching +eastward to intercept them. + +"A sharp fight took place, terminating to the advantage of neither, and +at night the contestants bivouacked near the battle-field. + +"On the night of the twenty-eighth, Pope's forces were so disposed that +twenty-five thousand men under McDowell, Sigel and Reynolds, were ready +to attack Jackson from the south and west, and the corps of Reno, +Heintzelman, and Porter, consisting of an equal number of troops, were +to complete the attack from the east. Lee was pushing forward his forces +to support Jackson at Thoroughfare Gap, and it was necessary for the +Union army to use all possible celerity of movement, in order to make +the attack before the main movement of the Confederate army under Lee +could come up. But this combination failed like many another, and during +the night King's division fell back towards Manassas Junction, at which +place Porter's Corps had recently arrived, and the road to Gainsville +and Thoroughfare Gap was thus left open to Jackson. A new arrangement of +troops became therefore necessary."... + +There are several fine passages in the description of the battle of +Gettysburg which show graphic power, and penetration into the motives of +the leaders. The story of this sanguinary struggle for victory is well +told throughout. We extract the following: + +"Night came on to close the dreadful day. Thus far the battle had been +mostly to the advantage of the rebels. They held the ground where +Reynolds had fallen, also Seminary Ridge, and the elevation whence the +Eleventh Corps had been driven. They also occupied the ridge on which +Sickles had commenced to fight. Sickles himself was _hors du combat_ +with a shattered leg, which had to be amputated, and not far from twenty +thousand of our men had been killed, wounded, and captured. The rebels +had also lost heavily in killed and wounded, but having gained several +important positions, were deluded with the idea that they had gained a +victory. + + * * * * * + +"During these days of deadly strife and of unprecedented slaughter, our +cavalry was by no means idle. On the morning of the first, Kilpatrick +advanced his victorious squadrons to the vicinity of Abbottstown, where +they struck a force of rebel cavalry, which they scattered, capturing +several prisoners, and then rested. To the ears of the alert cavalry +chieftain came the sound of battle at Gettysburg, accompanied with the +intelligence, from prisoners mostly, that Stuart's main force was bent +on doing mischief on the right of our infantry lines, which were not far +from the night's bivouac. + +"He appeared instinctively to know where he was most needed; so, in the +absence of orders, early the next morning he advanced on Hunterstown. At +this point were the extreme wings of the infantry lines, and as +Kilpatrick expected, he encountered the rebel cavalry, commanded by his +old antagonists, Stuart, Lee and Hampton. The early part of the day was +spent mostly in reconnoitring, but all the latter part of the day was +occupied in hard, bold, and bloody work. Charges and counter-charges +were made; the carbine, pistol and sabre were used by turns, and the +artillery thundered long after the infantry around Gettysburg had sunk +to rest, well-nigh exhausted with the bloody carnage of the weary day. +But Stuart, who had hoped to break in upon our flank and rear, and to +pounce upon our trains, was not only foiled in his endeavor by the +gallant Kilpatrick, but also driven back upon his infantry supports and +badly beaten. + +"In the night, Kilpatrick, after leaving a sufficient force to prevent +Stuart from doing any special damage on our right, swung around with the +remainder of his division to the left of our line, near Round Top, and +was there prepared for any work which might be assigned him. + +"Friday, July third, the sun rose bright and warm upon the blackened +forms of the dead which were strewn over the bloody earth; upon the +wounded, who had not been cared for, and upon long glistening lines of +armed men, ready to renew the conflict. Each antagonist, rousing every +slumbering element of power, seemed to be resolved upon victory or +death. + +"The fight commenced early, by an attack of General Slocum's men, who, +determined to regain the rifle-pits they had lost the evening before, +descended like an avalanche upon the foe. The attack met with a prompt +response from General Ewell. But after several hours of desperate +fighting, victory perched upon the Union banners, and with great loss +and slaughter, the rebels were driven out of the breast-works, and fell +back upon their main lines near Benner's Hill. + +"This successful move upon the part of our Boys in Blue was followed by +an ominous lull or quiet, which continued about three hours. Meanwhile +the silence was fitfully broken by an occasional spit of fire, while +every preparation was being made for a last, supreme effort, which it +was expected would decide the mighty contest. The scales were being +poised for the last time, and upon the one side or the other was soon to +be recorded a glorious victory or a disastrous defeat. Hearts either +trembled, or waxed strong in the awful presence of this responsibility. + +"At length one o'clock arrived, a signal-gun was fired, and then at +least one hundred and twenty-five guns from Hill and Longstreet +concentrated and crossed their fires upon Cemetery Hill, the centre and +key of our position. Just behind this crest, though much exposed, were +General Meade's headquarters. For nearly two hours this hill was plowed +and torn by solid shot and bursting shell, while about one hundred guns +on our side, mainly from this crest and Round Top, made sharp response. +The earth and the air shook for miles around with the terrific +concussion, which came no longer in volleys, but in a continual roar. So +long and fearful a cannonade was never before witnessed on this +continent. As the range was short and the aim accurate, the destruction +was terrible. + + * * * * * + +"Gradually the fire on our side began to slacken, and General Meade, +learning that our guns were becoming hot, gave orders to cease firing +and to let the guns cool, though the rebel balls were making fearful +havoc among our gunners, while our infantry sought poor shelter behind +every projection, anxiously awaiting the expected charge. At length the +enemy, supposing that our guns were silenced, deemed that the moment for +an irresistible attack had come. Accordingly, as a lion emerges from +his lair, he sallied forth, when strong lines of infantry, nearly three +miles in length, with double lines of skirmishers in front, and heavy +reserves in rear, advanced with desperation to the final effort. They +moved with steady, measured tread over the plain below, and began the +ascent of the hills occupied by our forces, concentrating somewhat upon +General Hancock, though stretching across our entire front. + + * * * * * + +"General Picket's division was nearly annihilated. One of his officers +recounted that, as they were charging over the grassy plain, he threw +himself down before a murderous discharge of grape and canister, which +mowed the grass and men all around him as though a scythe had been swung +just above his prostrate form. + +"During the terrific cannonade and subsequent charges, our ammunition +and other trains had been parked in rear of Round Top, which gave them +splendid shelter. Partly to possess this train, but mainly to secure +this commanding position, General Longstreet sent two strong divisions +of infantry, with heavy artillery, to turn our flank, and drive us from +this ground. Kilpatrick, with his division, which had been strengthened +by Merritt's regulars, was watching this point and waiting for an +opportunity to strike the foe. It came at last. Emerging from the woods +in front of him came a strong battle-line, followed by others. + +[Illustration: Battle Of Gettysburg.] + +"To the young Farnsworth was committed the task of meeting infantry with +cavalry in an open field. Placing the Fifth New York in support of +Elder's battery, which was exposed to a galling fire, but made reply +with characteristic rapidity, precision and slaughter, Farnsworth +quickly ordered the First Virginia, the First Vermont, and Eighteenth +Pennsylvania in line of battle, and galloped away and charged upon the +flank of the advancing columns. The attack was sharp, brief and +successful, though attended with great slaughter. But the rebels were +driven upon their main lines, and the flank movement was prevented. Thus +the cavalry added another dearly earned laurel to its chaplet of +honor--_dearly earned_, because many of their bravest champions fell +upon that bloody field. + + * * * * * + +"Thus ended the battle of Gettysburg--the bloody turning-point of the +rebellion--the bloody baptism of the redeemed republic. Nearly twenty +thousand men from the Union ranks had been killed and wounded, and a +larger number of the rebels, making the enormous aggregate of at least +forty thousand, whose blood was shed to fertilize the Tree of Liberty." + +The following peroration to the glowing account of the battle of +Pittsburg Landing, we quote as an illustration of the vein of poetry +that pervades his writings: + +"Thus another field of renown was added to the list, so rapidly +increased during these years; where valor won deathless laurels, and +principle was reckoned weighter than life. + +"Peacefully the Tennessee flows between its banks onward to the ocean, +nor tells aught of the bloody struggle on its shore. Quietly the golden +grain ripens in the sun, and the red furrow of war is supplanted by the +plowshares of peace. To the child born within the shadow of this +battle-field, who listens wonderingly to a recital of the deeds of this +day, the heroes of Shiloh will, mayhap, appear like the dim phantoms of +a dream, shadowy and unreal, but the results they helped to bring about +are the tissue of a people's life; the dust he treads is the sacred soil +from which sprang the flowers of freedom, and the institutions for which +these men died, make his roof safe over his head." + +We conclude our extracts from the volume with a part of the chapter on +"The Surrender." The story is told without flourish of trumpets, and in +a manner to give no offense to the vanquished, while its strict and +impartial adherence to truth must recommend it to all readers: + +"The last act in the great drama of the war took place without dramatic +accessory. There was no startling tableau, with the chief actors grouped +in effective attitudes, surrounded by their attendants. No spreading +tree lent its romance to the occasion, as some artists have fondly +supposed. + +"A plain farm-house between the lines was selected by General Lee for +the surrender, and the ceremony of that act was short and simple. The +noble victor did not complete the humiliation of the brave vanquished by +any triumphal display or blare of trumpets. In his magnanimity he even +omitted the customary usage of allowing the victorious troops to pass +through the enemy's lines and witness their surrender. The two great +commanders met with courteous salutation, General Lee being attended by +only one of his aides. General Grant sat down at a table in the barely +furnished room and wrote in lead-pencil the terms of capitulation, to +which Lee dictated an agreement in writing. His secretary, Colonel +Marshall, and Colonel Badeau, the secretary of General Grant, made +copies of the agreement from the same bottle of ink. + + * * * * * + +"The final situation of the Confederate army before its surrender was +indeed desperate--its environments hopeless. Hemmed in at Appomattox +Court House, on a strip of land between the Appomattox and James rivers, +the Union army nearly surrounded it on all sides. Sheridan was in front, +Meade in the rear, and Ord south of the Court House. Lee had no +alternative other than the wholesale slaughter of his reduced army, or +its surrender to Federal authority. He wisely chose the latter. + +"The decisive battle of Five Forks had put his army to rout, and sent it +in rapid retreat towards the junction of the Southside and Danville +railroads at Burkesville. The Union troops pressed forward in pursuit, +and it became a vital question which would reach the junction first. +Between Petersburg, their point of starting, and their destination, at +Burkesville, the distance was fifty-three miles. The roads were bad, and +the troops tired with two days' fighting; but they pushed on with +determination in this race which was destined to decide the fate of two +armies. + + * * * * * + +"It was Palm Sunday, April the ninth, 1865, when the capitulation was +signed, in the plain frame dwelling near Appomattox Court House. + +"One is often struck with the curious coincidences--the apparent +sympathy between nature and important human events. The dying hours of +Cromwell and Napoleon were marked by violent storms. Omens in earth and +sky were the precursors of the death of Julius Caesar and King Duncan. A +great comet heralded the opening of the war, and Palm Sunday--the day +which commemorates the victorious entry of Christ into Jerusalem, +ushered in the welcome reign of peace. The time was auspicious; the +elements were rocked to sleep in a kind of Sunday repose. The two +armies, so long in deadly hostility, were now facing each other with +guns strangely hushed. An expectant silence pervaded the air. Every +heart was anxiously awaiting the result of the conference in the +historic farm-house. + +"When at last the news of the surrender flashed along the lines, +deafening cheers rose and fell for more than half an hour, over the +victorious Union army. Other than this, there was no undue triumphal +display of the victors over the conquered foe.... The shout of joy which +was sent up that day from Appomattox Court House echoed through the +entire North. Cannons boomed forth their iron paeans of victory; the glad +clash of bells was heard ringing 'peace and freedom in,' and bonfires +flamed high their attestation of the unbounded delight everywhere +exhibited. The day of jubilee seemed to have come, and rejoicing was the +order of the hour. The storm of war which had rocked the country for +four long years, was now rolling away, and the sunlight of peace fell +athwart the national horizon. The country for which Washington fought +and Warren fell was once more safe from treason's hands, and liberty was +again the heritage of the people." + +The Northern and Western press, as heretofore, again bore its flattering +testimony to our author's diligence, truthfulness and loyalty to his +colors; and to the surprising facility with which a soldier could +sheathe his sword and wield a pen, charming alike the veteran by his +details of valor, and the mother, wife and sister by his stories of +pathos from the battle-field. + +The following is from the Philadelphia _North American_: + + "'Battles for the Union.'--Thoroughly representative of the courage + and ability shown on either side in the great struggle that lasted + from the close of 1860 to April, 1865. It is not the purpose of the + author to present a standard and critical work like the works of + Jomini, Napier and Allison; nor to include a discussion of + political questions. His aim is rather to furnish a vivid and + correct account of the principal battles in such simple and + intelligible terms that every reader may gain a precise idea of + each. His style is rather graphic and vigorous than ornate. He + introduces effective details and personal episodes. His facts are + gleaned from a variety of sources as well as from personal + knowledge; and though proud of his own cause and of his companions, + he does not belittle their renown by decrying the valor or the + intelligence of his opponents. The conflicts themselves will never + be forgotten. It is desirable that they shall be kept vivid and + clear in the minds of the rising generation, to cultivate a correct + idea of the necessity of personal valor and of military preparation + and capacity, as well as impress a serious idea of the momentous + importance of political issues. Captain Glazier's volume is + excellently fitted to instruct and interest everywhere." + +The Pittsburg _Commercial_ says: + + "Commencing with the siege and final surrender of Fort Sumter, the + author traces the progress of the Union armies through all the + chief battles of the war, giving vivid and glowing descriptions of + the struggles at Big Bethel, Bull Run, Wilson's Creek, Ball's + Bluff, Mill Spring, Pea Ridge, the fight between the 'Merrimac' and + 'Monitor,' Newbern, Falmouth Heights, Pittsburg Landing, + Williamsburg, Seven Pines, Fair Oaks, Malvern Hill, Cedar Mountain, + Brandy Station, Manassas or Second Bull Run, Chantilly, Antietam, + Corinth, Fredericksburg, Stone River, Chancellorsville, Aldie, + Upperville, Gettysburg, Vicksburg, Port Hudson, Falling Waters, + Chickamauga, Bristoe, New Baltimore, Fort Fisher, Olustee, Fort + Pillow, Cold Harbor, Fort Wagner, Cedar Creek, Waynesboro, + Bentonville, Five Forks, and down to the surrender of Lee. Captain + Glazier has evidently had access to the official records of the + war, and his narrative of the great events are therefore accurate. + The book is one the reading of which will make the blood tingle in + the veins of every soldier who took part in the late war, while it + will deeply interest every lover of his country. As a book for + boys, it has few, if any, superiors." + +The Chicago _Inter-Ocean_ writes: + + "'Battles for the Union' is such a history as every soldier and + every man who has a pride in his country, should wish to possess. + Captain Glazier was no carpet knight. He shared the glories of the + Harris Light Cavalry in camp and field, earning his promotion from + the non-commissioned ranks to the command for which he was so + admirably fitted. There is the scent of powder in what he writes, + the vivid reality of sight and understanding. We are particularly + charmed with his style, which is plain, blunt, direct, and free + from strain or affectation. He describes the fights as they were + fought; individual deeds of bravery as they were performed; the + march and its trials; the defeat and its causes; the victory and + its effects. With the ardor of a young patriot, and the generous + admiration of a good soldier, he feels as great a pride in the + successes of a rival corps as in his own. Nor is this an unworthy + feature of his work, because the army was full of little, and + sometimes not particularly friendly, rivalries. Willard Glazier's + chapters, in which every battle may be regarded as a separate + picture, read like a grand panoramic view of gallant deeds and + warlike pageantries. If the author occasionally covers up a clear + defeat, excusing it with graceful art; if he feels disposed to + over-estimate a slight advantage, and to claim a victory where the + battle was evidently drawn, he errs upon the side of love for the + Boys in Blue, and pride in the flag under which he fought. The work + is divided into forty-four chapters, each containing a different + battle. We confidently recommend these graphic and life-like + pictures to the notice of our readers. They are thrilling as the + sound of the trumpet, and soul-inspiring as the songs of Ossian. We + call the reader's attention to the description of the combat + between the 'Merrimac' and 'Monitor' in chapter eight. It is + something which will fill with pride the sailor's heart." + + + + +CHAPTER XXX. + + +"HEROES OF THREE WARS." + + + Literary zeal.--"Heroes of Three Wars"--Extract from preface.--Sale + of the work.--Extracts: Washington.--Winfield Scott.--Zachary + Taylor.--Grant.--Sheridan.--Kilpatrick.--Press reviews, a few out + of many: Boston "Transcript."--Chicago "Inter-Ocean."--Baltimore + "Sun."--Philadelphia "Times."--Cincinnati "Enquirer."--Worcester + "Spy."--Pittsburg "Gazette." + +By this time our soldier-author found himself not only famous, but, +through the enormous sale of his books, in comparatively affluent +circumstances. His literary zeal, however, was not yet spent, and work +succeeded work with a rapidity almost without parallel, while the extent +of their sale exceeded anything hitherto known in the literary world. + +"Heroes of Three Wars," issued by Hubbard Brothers, Philadelphia, the +latest production of his pen which he has as yet published, comprises +original and life-like sketches of the brave soldiers of the +Revolutionary, Mexican and Civil Wars; and the stories are told in a way +that is not easily forgotten. In the wide field presented by these three +important epochs in the history of our country, Glazier has labored to +inculcate in the minds of young Americans the virtues of gallantry, true +worth, and patriotism; and his work is valuable as presenting to the +student in a small compass, so much of interest in biography and +history. + +In the preface to the work he observes: "Washington, Scott and Grant are +names that will live forever in our history; not because they were the +subjects of a blind adulation, but because their worth was properly +estimated, and their deeds truthfully recorded. The time for deifying +men has long since passed; we prefer to see them as they are--though +great, still human, and surrounded with human infirmities; worthy of +immortal renown, not because they are unlike us, but because they excel +us and have performed a work which entitles them to the lasting +gratitude of their countrymen. Another object of this book is to group +around these three generals, those officers and men who climbed to +immortality by their side, shared their fortunes, helped to win their +victories, and remained with them to the end." Again: "Biographies +possess but little value unless they give living portraits, so that each +man stands out clear and distinct in his true character and +proportions." + +Several thousand copies of this valuable work have already been called +for by the public, and it bids fair to equal its predecessors in amount +of circulation. As a specimen of its style, we present to the reader the +following extract from the biographical sketch of Washington:--"There is +a singular unanimity of opinion in ascribing to George Washington an +exceptional character. It was certainly one of peculiar symmetry, in +which a happy combination of qualities, moral, social and intellectual, +were guided to appropriate action by a remarkable power of clear +judgment. It was just the combination calculated to lead a spirited and +brave people through such a trying crisis as the American Revolution. +His star was not dark and bright by turns--did not reveal itself in +uncertain and fitful glimmerings--but shone with a full and steady +luminosity across the troubled night of a nation's beginning. Under +these broad and beneficent rays the Ship of State was guided, through a +sea of chaos, to safe anchorage. The voyage across those seven eventful +years was one that tried men's souls. Often, appalling dangers +threatened. Wreck on the rocks of Disunion, engulfment in the mountain +waves of opposition, starvation and doubt and mutiny on shipboard--these +were a few of the perils which beset their course. But a royal-souled +Commander stood at the helm, and discerned, afar-off, the green shores +of liberty. On this land the sunshine fell with fruitful power. The air +was sweet with the songs of birds. Contentment, peace, prosperity, +reigned. Great possibilities were shadowed forth within its boundaries, +and a young nation, growing rapidly towards a splendid era of +enlightenment, was foreseen as a product of the near future. It took a +man with deep faith in the ultimate rule of right and in humanity, to +occupy that position; a man with large heart, with unselfish aims, with +prophetic instincts, with clear and equalized brain. George Washington +possessed all these qualities--and more!" + +The following is from the admirably graphic sketch of the sturdy +soldier, Winfield Scott: "On the twenty-fifth of the same month (July, +1814), a little below that sublime spot where the wide waste of waters +which rush over the Falls of Niagara roar and thunder into the gulf +below, and where Lundy's Lane meets the rapid river at right angles, was +enacted the scene of conflict which took its name from the locality, and +is variously called the battle of 'Lundy's Lane,' or 'Niagara.' The +action began forty minutes before sunset, and it is recorded that the +head of the American column, as it advanced, was encircled by a +rainbow--one which is often seen there, formed from the rising spray. +The happy omen faithfully prefigured the result; for when, under the +cloudy sky of midnight the battle at length terminated, the Americans +were in possession of the field, and also the enemy's cannon, which had +rained such deadly death into their ranks. In this action General Scott +had two horses killed under him, and about eleven o'clock at night he +was disabled by a musket-ball wound through the left shoulder. He had +previously been wounded, and at this juncture was borne from the fray. +He had piloted Miller's regiment through the darkness to the height on +Lundy's Lane, where the enemy's batteries were posted, and upon which +the grand charge was made that decided the battle. Throughout the action +he was the leading spirit of the occasion, giving personal direction to +the movements of his men, and lending the inspiration of his presence to +all parts of the field." + +Of Zachary Taylor, our author writes, in his masterly way: "The blaze of +glory which is concentrated upon the name and life of Zachary Taylor, +reveals a hero as true in metal, as sterling in virtue, as intrepid in +action, and tender of heart, as ever lifted sword in the cause of honor +or country. On him has fallen that most sacred mantle of renown, woven +from the fabric of a people's confidence, and lovingly bestowed--not as +upon a being of superior race to be worshipped, but because he was a +leader from among themselves--truly of the people. He was honored with +their fullest trust in his integrity, and with their largest faith in +his uprightness as a man. As Daniel Webster truly said, the best days +of the Roman republic afforded no brighter example of a man, who, +receiving the plaudits of a grateful nation, and clothed in the highest +authority of state, reached that pinnacle by more honest means; who +could not be accused of the smallest intrigue or of pursuing any devious +ways to political advancement in order to gratify personal ambition. All +the circumstances of his rise and popularity, from the beginning of his +career, when, amid blood and smoke, he made the heroic defence of Fort +Harrison, to the wonderful battles of Palo Alto, Resaca, and Buena +Vista, and at last the attainment of the Presidential chair--all repel +the slightest suspicion of sinister motive, or a wish for individual +aggrandizement. The unwavering rule of his life--his guide in every +action--was the simple watchword, 'duty.' + +"As to his qualities of leadership, they shone out in high relief, from +first to last. In the war of 1812, he was only a captain, yet at Fort +Harrison he inspired the scanty garrison with a belief in his power, and +they gave him their devoted support. In the Florida campaign he +commanded only a brigade, yet he seemed to infuse into every soldier the +most courageous bravery. In the beginning of the war with Mexico, he +marched into action at the head of a single division, and when this +force afterwards swelled into an army, it did not prove too much for the +resources of its commanding general. The frowning heights and barricaded +streets of Monterey, bristling with ten thousand Mexicans, did not daunt +him. What though he had only six thousand men with which to hold them in +siege? The assault was fearlessly made, the streets were stormed, the +heights were carried, the city was won--and kept! + +"The brilliant victory of Buena Vista, where five thousand Americans +hurled back and repulsed a tumultuous Mexican horde of twenty thousand, +only reiterates the same marvelous story of superior leadership." + + * * * * * + +"Fresh from these splendid achievements, he received the nomination for +President over the names of Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, and General +Scott. It was a spontaneous expression of the people's confidence, +unheralded and unsought. And when he was triumphantly elected over the +Democratic and Free-soil candidates--General Cass, Martin Van Buren, and +Charles Francis Adams--he accepted the high office in a spirit of +humility and simple compliance with duty." + +In the sketch of General U. S. Grant's life, our author has written with +a masterly hand the outlines of the grand career of his favorite +general, the salient points of which are given with a soldierly energy +and dash befitting the theme. Thus the chapter commences: + +"The occasion often creates the man, but the man who _masters_ the +occasion is born, not made. Many are pushed to the surface, momentarily, +by the pressure of events, and then subside into common levels; but he +is the true commander during a crisis, who can wield the waves of +difficulty to advantage, and be a sure pilot amid the on-rush of events +when they thicken and deepen into a prolonged struggle. + +"When, during the late war, our country needed a leader to face and +quell the threatened danger of disunion, and conduct her armies to +successful issues; and when Government entrusted those momentous issues +to Ulysses S. Grant, 'the man and the moment had met,'--the occasion had +found its master. + +"Napoleon said that the most desirable quality of a good general was +that his judgment should be in equilibrium with his courage. To no +commander of modern times could this rule apply with more force than to +Grant. A man of no outward clamor of character, no hint of bluster or +dash, quiet-voiced, self-controlled, but not self-asserting, he yet +displayed vast power as an organizer, as a tactician, and in masterly +combinations of large forces so as to produce the most telling effects. +It has been truly said of him that no general ever stamped his own +peculiar character upon an army more emphatically than did Grant upon +the Army of the Tennessee. It was the only large organization which, as +a whole, never suffered a defeat during the war. It was noted for its +marvelous persistence--its determined fighting qualities--and had the +reputation of being sure to win any battle that lasted over a day, no +matter what the odds against it. It was at Grant's recommendation that a +united command was concentrated in the Mississippi Valley--which +concentration has since been acknowledged to have been the basis of all +our subsequent victories. + +"Generosity, mildness and kind-heartedness, shone as conspicuously in +Grant's character as his firmness and great generalship. Simplicity of +manner and kindness of heart are always characteristic of the true hero. + + 'The bravest are the tenderest, + The loving are the daring.' + +"The rapid and bold descent upon Fort Donelson, the unconquerable +determination exhibited at Shiloh, the brilliant capture of Vicksburg, +and the high military science displayed at Chattanooga Valley, Look-out +Mountain, and Missionary Ridge--these have never been surpassed in +military history, in splendor of execution, or judiciousness of +combination."... + +For brevity and comprehensiveness we commend the following unique +paragraph on the genealogy of his subject: + +"The great-grandfather of Ulysses was Captain Noah Grant, who was killed +at the battle of White Plains, during the French and Indian wars, in +1776. His grandfather, Noah Grant, Jr., fought at Lexington as +lieutenant of militia, and afterwards, during the Revolution. His +father, Jesse, emigrated from Pennsylvania to Ohio, and was married at +Point Pleasant, Ohio, June, 1821, to Hannah Simpson, whose father was +also from the Keystone State. Ulysses was born the following year, April +twenty-seventh, 1822." + +We quote again from the sketch of Grant: + +"On the sixth of February the brilliant reduction of Fort Henry, on the +Tennessee, was accomplished by Foote, and Fort Donelson, twelve miles +distant, was next in line. Grant and Foote were co-operating by land and +water; but Foote did not meet here with the same success that attended +him at Fort Henry. It was the fifteenth of February, and Grant had spent +two or three days in making an investment of the high and wooded bluff +from which frowned the guns of Donelson. Before daybreak, on the +fifteenth, he had gone on board the flag-ship of Foote, in consultation +as to the time and manner of attack, when the enemy swept from their +works and fell upon the Union lines with tremendous force. The fighting +became furious at once, and for some time the battle-line swayed to and +fro, between victory and defeat. It was desperate work; brigades and +regiments were repulsed and by turns advanced--the brave commands +disputing every inch of the rocky and difficult battle-field. When Grant +reached the scene it was 'to find his right thrown back, ammunition +exhausted, and the ranks in confusion.' With quick inspiration he took +in the situation at a glance, comprehended that the enemy had exhausted +his greatest strength, and ordered an immediate attack by the left on +the Confederate works in front. General Smith was in command of this +portion of the army, and had not actively participated in the conflict. +He therefore brought fresh troops to the assault. McClernand was also +ordered to reform his shattered ranks and advance. The combined forces +charged with splendid valor up the rocky steeps, in the blaze of a +withering fire poured down upon them from the fort. They did not falter +for a single instant, but reaching the summit, swept over and into the +Confederate works with ringing cheers. On the next morning a white flag +was seen flying from the fort, and under its protection, proposals for +an armistice were sent in. Grant replied that unconditional surrender, +and that immediately, must be made, or he would move on their works at +once. Thereupon, Buckner, who was in command, surrendered the fort with +its thirteen thousand men. This splendid victory blazoned the name of +Grant all over the country, and he immediately became the people's +hero." + + * * * * * + +"His next achievement, the capture of Vicksburg, was wonderful indeed. +Its natural strength of position on a high bluff, one hundred feet +above the water level, added to the formidable array of defences which +bristled defiance to all foes, made Vicksburg a very citadel of power, +and the fifty thousand men stationed there under Pemberton and Price did +not lessen the difficulties to be overcome. A fort, mounting eight guns, +sentineled the approach to the city from beneath, while the heights +above were guarded by a three-banked battery. Eight miles of batteries +lined the shore above and below Vicksburg. Grant made several fruitless +attempts to get to the rear of the city by digging canals across the +strip of land on which it stood, and making an inland route; but each +one, after herculean labor, had been abandoned. He now decided on the +bold enterprise of running the gauntlet of these batteries with his +transports. This desperate feat was successfully accomplished; but +before he could land his troops at Grand Gulf, which he had selected as +his starting-point, it was necessary to run its batteries as he had +those of Vicksburg, land his troops farther down the river, and capture +the place by hard fighting. He waited for nothing. Hurrying forward the +moment he touched land, his object was to take Grand Gulf before the +enemy could reinforce it.... After conquering Grand Gulf, where he +expected Banks to join him, he was confronted with the refusal of that +general to co-operate with him. In this dilemma nothing but a +master-stroke of genius could wring success from the materials of +defeat. He saw what was before him, and with true inspiration became the +master of circumstances. At the head of his brave command he pushed +inland, aiming to crush the enemy 'in detail before he could concentrate +his forces.' By a rapid series of brilliant marches, battles and +victories, Grant had, at last, on the nineteenth of May, succeeded in +completely investing Vicksburg. The whole plan from its outset was +brilliant to an extraordinary degree, and the tireless persistence and +energy shown in its accomplishment, stamped this man as a very Gibraltar +of military genius. + +"An assault on the enemy's works at first, had proven a failure, and now +the wonderful siege began. For forty-six days the digging and mining +went patiently forward, while screaming shells and booming shot produced +a reign of terror in the city, until at last, Pemberton could hold out +no longer and surrendered his starving garrison to the superior prowess +and strategy of Grant. It was the morning of the fourth of July when our +troops took possession of Vicksburg, and ran up the stars and stripes +from the top of the court-house. The soldiers, standing beneath it, sang +'Rally round the Flag,' and Grant became more than ever the popular +hero. On the thirteenth of July, Lincoln wrote him a letter of 'grateful +acknowledgment for the almost inestimable service' he had rendered the +country. In September he was placed in command of the 'Departments of +the Ohio, of the Cumberland, and of the Tennessee, constituting the +Military Division of the Mississippi.' + + * * * * * + +"Grant assumed the duties of his high office [the lieutenant-generalship +of the army] without flourish of any sort, and proceeded to inaugurate +the successive steps of his last great campaign. The military resources +which centered in his hand were stupendous, but had they fallen under +the control of a man less great than he, their very immensity would +have rendered them powerless. The splendid army of the Potomac was on +the move by May third, and the last march to Richmond had begun. Then +came the three-days' battle of the Wilderness, on the south bank of the +Rapidan, bloody and terrible and strange, during which some of our +troops were fighting continuously for forty-eight hours; and following +close after came also Spottsylvania, which was the result of an endeavor +to cut off Lee's retreat. This, too, was a desperate conflict, where +precious blood flowed in rivers. Then followed the race between the two +opposing armies, for the North Anna. After crossing this river, and +finding the Confederates occupying a fortified position on the South +Anna, Grant 'swung his army around to the Pamunky, and pitched his +head-quarters at Hanover Court House,' These masterly flank movements, +in which he manoeuvred his vast army with such ease, exhibited his +marvelous genius in stronger light than ever before. From the Pamunky he +advanced to the Chickahominy, and, after the battle of Cold Harbor, made +a rapid but quiet change of front on the night of the twelfth of June, +and two days afterwards crossed the James and advanced against +Petersburg and Richmond. The attack, at first a success, failed through +a blunder, not Grant's; and then began the long siege which ended at +last in the evacuation of Petersburg and Richmond. Nowhere was the joy +more heartfelt over these results than among the released captives of +Libby Prison. + +"Lee made a desperate endeavor to escape the 'manifest destiny' that +pursued him, and led his army a 'race for life.' But Grant, close on his +track, environed him on all sides, and the surrender at Appomattox +became inevitable. When, at the final scene, Lee presented his sword to +Grant, the great general handed it back to him, saying, 'it could not be +worn by a braver man.'" + + * * * * * + +We present the reader with the following extracts from the sketch of +General Sheridan. It will be observed that the author is extremely happy +in the selection of his subjects, his aim evidently being to include +those only whose reputation for heroism is unquestioned and national. + +"Sheridan is probably the most intense type of 'soldiership' brought to +light by the last war. Nor can any other war furnish an individual +example that will surpass him in fiery concentration. In battle he is +the very soul of vehement action--the incarnate wrath of the storm. No +historian can ever portray the man so truly as did the remarkable +victory of Cedar Creek--a result solely of his extraordinary power. The +marvelous will-force with which he could hurl himself in the front of +battle, and infuse his own spirit of unconquerable daring into the +ranks, is phenomenal, to say the least." + + * * * * * + +"When Grant became Lieutenant-General, Sheridan was given the command of +the cavalry of the army of the Potomac, and all his subsequent movements +evinced wonderful daring, skill and energy. No trust committed to his +charge was ever misplaced, no matter what its magnitude or importance. + +"When the Confederate Generals Ewell and Early were sent into the +Shenandoah Valley, and went so far north as to threaten Washington, +Grant consolidated the four military divisions of the Susquehanna, +Washington, Monongahela and West Virginia, into the 'army of the +Shenandoah,' and placed Sheridan in command. He defeated Early at +Opequan, September nineteenth--for which he was made brigadier-general +of the United States army; defeated him again at Fisher's Hill on the +twenty-second, and on October the nineteenth occurred the battle of +Cedar Creek. + +"The position of Sheridan's army at this time was along the crest of +three hills, 'each one a little back of the other,' The army of West +Virginia, under Crook, held the first hill; the second was occupied by +the Nineteenth Corps, under Emory, and the Sixth Corps, with Torbet's +cavalry covering its right flank, held the third elevation. Early, +marching his army in five columns, crossed the mountains and forded the +north branch of the Shenandoah River, at midnight, on the eighteenth. He +knew that Sheridan had gone up to Washington, and wanted to take +advantage of his absence to surprise the unsuspecting camp. The march +was conducted so noiselessly that, though he skirted the borders of our +position for miles, nothing came to the ears of our pickets, save in a +few instances where a heavy muffled tramp was heard, but disregarded as +of no consequence. + +"The gray gloom of early morning hovered over the camp, when a +reconnoitring force from Crook's army was preparing to go out. Suddenly, +a wild yell burst through the fog which hid from view the Confederate +army. A withering musketry fire and the clash of arms quickly followed. +Before our surprised and panic-stricken troops could be formed in +battle-array, the enemy were upon them, and after a short and sharp +encounter, the army of Western Virginia was thrown into utter rout--a +mass of fugitives flying before the pursuing foe back towards the second +hill where the Nineteenth Corps was encamped. + + * * * * * + +"The Nineteenth Corps attempted to arrest the Confederate advance, but +the enemy getting in our rear and enfilading us with our captured +batteries, the troops broke ranks and fell back in confusion towards the +encampment of the Sixth Corps, on the third hill in the rear. + + * * * * * + +"Sheridan, meantime, was at Winchester, where he had arrived the night +before, intending to go on to Cedar Creek the next morning. As he sipped +his coffee at breakfast he did not for an instant dream of the terrible +rout and disaster hovering at that moment over his army. When he rode +out of Winchester the vibrations of the ground under the heavy +discharges of artillery in the distance gave the first intimations of +danger. But he was not yet alarmed, knowing the security of his +position. As he went onward, however, the thunder of the cannon +deepened, and then the terrible truth flashed upon him. He dashed spurs +into his horse and was soon tearing madly along the road, far ahead of +his escort. + +"For five anxious hours the desperate struggle had gone on, when +Sheridan arrived on the field, encountering first the stream of +fugitives surging northward. They turned about as they saw their +invincible leader flying towards the front, and even the wounded along +the roadside cheered him as he passed. Swinging his cap over his head, +he shouted: 'Face the other way, boys!--face the other way! We are going +back to our camps! We are going to lick them out of their boots!' + +"It was about ten o'clock when, with his horse covered with foam, he +galloped up to the front. Immediately, under his quick commands, the +broken ranks were reformed, and when the Confederates made their next +grand charge across the fields the terrific repulse that met and hurled +them back showed the turn of the tide, and compelled them to relinquish +the offensive. For two hours Sheridan rode back and forth along the +line, seeming to be everywhere at once, infusing into the men his own +daring courage and enthusiasm. Shouts and cheers followed him; and +though the tired soldiers had been fighting for five long hours and had +eaten nothing since the night before, his presence was both food and +inspiration, and everything seemed to be forgotten in an all-controlling +impulse to follow their glorious leader to victory. + +"Early retired his troops a short distance after their repulse, and +began throwing up breastworks. But the intrepid Sheridan had no notion +of allowing him to retain that position. He meant to regain Cedar Creek +and rout the enemy. At half-past three a bold charge was made. An awful +musketry and artillery fire was poured into the advancing Union columns, +and, at first, the lines broke and fell back; but Sheridan rose at once +to the needs of the crisis, and with superhuman efforts restored order +and resumed the advance. Then came 'the long-drawn yell of our charge,' +and 'everything on the first line, the stone walls, the tangled wood, +the advanced crest, and half-finished breastworks, had been carried.' + +"The panic-stricken enemy was sent flying in utter rout through +Middletown, through Strasburg, through Fisher's Hill, and to Woodstock, +sixteen miles beyond. Early was thus effectually driven out of the +Shenandoah Valley, and permanently crippled. + +"This wonderful victory, due to Sheridan's personal presence alone, put +a crown on his head which few warriors could pluck from the heights of +Fame." + + * * * * * + +"On March the fourth, 1869, he received the promotion of +lieutenant-general, and was appointed to the command of the Division of +the Missouri, of the Platte, and of Texas, with head-quarters at +Chicago." + + * * * * * + +The name of Kilpatrick kindles enthusiasm in the breast of every +cavalryman of the late war, and our author, having served under him, has +sketched his life, _con amore_, in vivid and thrilling language, and +with a keen appreciation of his great merits as a cavalry leader. The +following extract will confirm our view: + +"Like the French Murat, Kilpatrick seems to have been born to become a +very demi-god of cavalry. Daringly heroic on the field, he displayed a +supreme genius for war, especially for that department of the service +whose alarum cry is, 'To horse!' and whose sweeping squadrons, with wild +clatter of hoofs, seem to the fervid imagination to be making a race for +glory, even though it be through the gates of death. + +"It is quite in keeping with everything about Kilpatrick that he should +choose the cavalry as a vehicle for his high ambition and noble +patriotism. Such energies as his could scarcely be content with less +dash or less brilliance of action. The beginning of his war career was +one of romance, and his previous life indicated an unusual range of +abilities. He first figures as the boy-orator, speaking in favor of a +Congressional candidate, with all the fresh warmth and enthusiasm of his +young nature. Then we see him as cadet at West Point, from which he +graduates fifteenth in his class and is given the honor of +valedictorian. The day of graduation is hastened a few months by the +startling guns of Sumter, which proclaim treason rampant, and fire all +loyal breasts with a desire to rush to the rescue of their country's +beloved flag. The impatience and enthusiasm of Kilpatrick could not be +restrained, and through his influence a petition was signed by +thirty-seven of his class to be allowed to graduate at once and go to +the front. The request was granted, and that day was one of especial +significance at West Point. It was also one of equal significance in his +life; for the little chapel, where had rung out the words of his +farewell address, also witnessed the sacred ceremony of his marriage +with the lady of his love, and on that evening the young soldier and his +bride took the train for Washington and the front. We know little of the +bride except that she was enshrined in her husband's heart, and that her +name--'Alice'--was inscribed on the silken banner under which he fought, +and so gloriously led his troopers to victory and renown. No one can +tell how much that name may have had to do with his future marvelous +success. To natures like his, the magic of a name thus loved, fluttering +aloft in the smoke of battle, becomes talismanic, and inspires almost +superhuman heroism." + + * * * * * + +"When McDowell marched to Falmouth, he was once more at the front, and, +in conjunction with Colonel Bayard and the First Pennsylvania Cavalry, +made a brilliant night-attack on Falmouth Heights, routing Lee's cavalry +and capturing the place. For this dashing achievement Kilpatrick +received the thanks of the commanding general. Afterwards, under Pope's +command, he made his first famous raid in breaking up 'Stonewall' +Jackson's line of communication with Richmond from Gordonsville in the +Shenandoah Valley, over the Virginia Central Railway. At Beaver Dam, +Frederick's Hall, and Hanover Junction, he burned the stations, +destroyed the tracks, and daringly attacked the enemy wherever he could +find him. These events took place during July and August, 1862, and the +boldness of the operations, in the very heart of the enemy's country, +filled the North with Kilpatrick's fame.... + +"When Hooker was placed at the head of the Army of the Potomac, the +cavalry was reorganized under Stoneman as chief, and that general, in +the following campaign, assigned to Kilpatrick the work of destroying +the railroad and bridges over the Chickahominy. Four hundred and fifty +men were given him for the work; but with this small force he brought to +the difficult mission his usual skill, and, avoiding large forces of the +enemy, raided to within two miles of Richmond, where he captured +'Lieutenant Brown, aide-de-camp to General Winder, and eleven men within +the fortifications.' He says: 'I then passed down to the left to the +Meadow Bridge on the Chickahominy, which I burned, ran a train of cars +into the river, retired to Hanover-town on the Peninsula, crossed just +in time to check the advance of a pursuing cavalry force, burned a train +of thirty wagons loaded with bacon, captured thirteen prisoners, and +encamped for the night five miles from the river,' This was the manner +of his conquering quest, until on the seventh he again struck the Union +lines at Gloucester Point, having made a march of about 'two hundred +miles in less than five days, and captured and paroled over eight +hundred prisoners.' In the accomplishment of this splendid feat he lost +only one officer and thirty-seven men. + +"At Chancellorsville, when Lee came into Maryland and massed his cavalry +at Beverly Ford, Pleasonton was sent forward on a reconnaissance, and +met the enemy in battle at Brandy Station. This is renowned as the +greatest cavalry battle of the war. General Gregg arrived upon the field +at half-past ten in the morning, and though his noble squadrons fought +well and bravely, these columns were rolled back, and for a moment, all +seemed lost, and overwhelmed by the superior numbers of the foe. But at +this crisis, Kilpatrick, posted on a slight rise of ground, unrolled his +battle-flag to the breeze, and his bugles sounded the charge. He had +under his command, the Harris Light, Tenth New York, and First Maine. +The formation for an onset was quickly made, and the disciplined +squadrons of these three regiments were hurled upon the enemy. But the +Tenth New York recoiled before the murderous fire of the enemy's +carbines. So did the Harris Light. Kilpatrick was maddened at the sight. +He rushed to the head of the First Maine regiment, shouting, 'Men of +Maine, you must save the day!' Under the impulse of this enthusiasm, +they became altogether resistless, and in conjunction with the reformed +squadrons of the two other regiments, swept the enemy before them, and +plucked victory, with glorious valor, from the very jaws of defeat. On +the next day Kilpatrick was made brigadier-general." + + * * * * * + +Having presented extracts from "Heroes of Three Wars," and ventured to +express, incidentally and briefly our own humble opinion of the merits +of this work, we will now, in confirmation of our judgment, give some +reviews of the Press--a few out of many. Throughout the North the work +was hailed with not a little enthusiasm, by soldiers and civilians +alike--as a work of decided literary merit, and one written in a fair, +truthful, and loyal spirit, replete with much valuable historical +information of a character not otherwise easily attainable, and +calculated to accomplish much good among the rising generation. + +The Boston _Transcript_ says: + + "The bivouac, the march, the hand-to-hand conflict with bristling + steel, the head-long charge, the ignominious retreat, and the + battle-field after the bloody assault, with its dead and wounded + heroes, are all excellently portrayed, and with an ease and vigor + of style that lend a peculiar charm to the book, and rivet the + attention of the reader from cover to cover. It is really + refreshing to meet with such a work as this in these degenerate + days of namby-pamby novels, so enervating to mind and morals. + Captain Glazier's work elevates the ideas, and infuses a spirit of + commendable patriotism into the young mind, by showing the youth of + the country how nobly men could die for the principles they + cherished and the land they loved." + +The Chicago _Inter-Ocean_ writes as follows: + + "It is correct in facts, graphic in its delineations, and in all + its makeup is a most admirable volume. It will do the young men, + and even those older, good to glance at these pages and read anew + the perils and hardships and sacrifices which have been made by the + loyal men who met and overthrew in battle the nation's enemies. + The book is of absorbing interest as a record of brave deeds by as + brave and heroic men as ever answered a bugle's call. The author + writes no fancy sketch. He has the smoke and scars of battle in + every sentence. He answered roll-call and mingled amid the exciting + events he relates. No writer, even the most praised correspondents + of the foreign journals, have given more vivid descriptions + soul-stirring in their simple truthfulness, than Captain Glazier in + his 'Heroes of Three Wars.'" + +The Baltimore _Sun_ writes: + + "'Heroes of Three Wars' is written by the masterly hand of one who + has evidently enjoyed a personal acquaintance with many of the + subjects introduced, and is not only thoroughly imbued with the + spirit of his work, but as thoroughly inspires his readers. Captain + Glazier has familiarized himself with all of the details of + interest in the lives of a grand galaxy of heroes, and has put on + paper, in a condensed and graphic form, a clear picture of what he + has treasured up in his own mind. We know of no book that contains + so faithful a presentation of our brave defenders in so condensed + and satisfactory a form." + +The Philadelphia _Times_ observes: + + "The soldier-author does his work in an artless, patriotic, + beautiful style, and gives to his readers a real and not an + imaginary idea of army life in all its lights and shades. Captain + Glazier has laid his countrymen under lasting obligations to him, + especially in this new book, 'Heroes of Three Wars.'" + +The Cincinnati _Enquirer_ remarks: + + "Captain Glazier rises above the conventional war-writers' idioms, + and gives his work a place in literature and history. Here is found + the stern actuality of war's fearful tug; here the beautiful pathos + of pure manly sentiment flowing from the heart of many a brave soul + on the battle's eve; here the scenes of sad and solemn burial where + warriors weep. The din of battle on one page, and the jest at the + peril past on the next--the life-test and the comedy of camp--these + alternatingly checker the work over, and give the reader a truer + insight into the perils and privations of our brave defenders than + any book we have read." + + + + +CHAPTER XXXI. + + +OCEAN TO OCEAN ON HORSEBACK. + + + From Boston to San Francisco.--An unparalleled ride.--Object of the + journey.--Novel lecture tour.--Captain Frank M. Clark.--"Echoes + from the Revolution."--Lecture at Tremont Temple.--Captain + Theodore L. Kelly.--A success.--Proceeds of lecture.--Edward F. + Rollins.--Extracts from first lecture.--Press notices. + +The story of the career of Willard Glazier will not be complete without +some description of his novel and adventurous feat of riding on +horseback across the continent of North America--literally from ocean to +ocean, or from Boston to San Francisco. This unparalleled ride was +satisfactorily accomplished by him in 1876--the Centennial year. It was +a long and trying journey, extending over a period of two hundred days, +and a distance of four thousand one hundred and thirty-three miles, but +at the same time a journey of great interest. His object was to study, +at comparative leisure, the line of country through which he would pass, +and to note the habits and condition of the people he came in contact +with. The knowledge thus laboriously acquired he purposed placing before +the public in book form. + +While thus in the commendable pursuit of knowledge, he also contemplated +making some practical return for the many kindnesses and courtesies he +had received at the hands of soldiers since the disbandment of the +volunteer army, and the wide circulation of the first product of his +pen, _The Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape_; and it had occurred to him +that to accomplish this he might turn his journey to beneficial account +by lecturing at the various towns he visited, and handing over the +proceeds to the Widows' and Orphans' fund of the "Grand Army of the +Republic," of which patriotic society he was a member; or to some other +benevolent military organization. + +The thought no sooner entered his mind than, with his usual promptitude, +the resolution was formed, and, with the following letter of +introduction from Captain Frank M. Clark, of New York, he at once +proceeded to Boston: + + + 4 Irving Place, + New York, _April 20, 1876._ + + To Comrades of the G. A. R.: + + I have been intimately acquainted with Captain Willard Glazier, a + comrade in good standing of Post No. 29, Department of New York, + "Grand Army of the Republic," for the past eight years, and know + him to be worthy the confidence of every loyal man. He is an + intelligent and courteous gentleman, an author of good repute, a + soldier whose record is without a stain, and a true comrade of the + "Grand Army." I bespeak for him the earnest and cordial support of + all comrades of the Order. + + Yours very truly in F., C. and L., + Frank M. Clark, + Late A. A. G. Department of New York, G. A. R. + + +[Illustration: Captain Glazier At Tremont Temple, Boston.] + +On the evening of the eighth of May, 1876, Captain Glazier lectured as +arranged at Tremont Temple, Boston. His subject, appropriate to the +Centennial year, was entitled "Echoes from the Revolution." This was the +first occasion of any importance on which he had ever appeared on the +rostrum. It may here be mentioned that his friends strongly recommended +him to deliver the first lecture before a smaller and less critical +audience than he would be likely to confront in Boston, and thus +prepare himself for a later appearance in the literary capital; but our +soldier reasoned that as lecturing was a new experience to him, his +military education dictated that, if he could carry the strongest works +the weaker along the line would fall, as a matter of course, and so +resolved to deliver his first lecture in Tremont Temple. The lecture, as +we have said, had been prepared with a view to its delivery at various +towns and cities on the route he contemplated traveling. He was +introduced to his Boston audience by Captain Theodore L. Kelly, +Commander of Post 15, Grand Army of the Republic, and was honored by the +presence on the platform of representatives from nearly all the Posts of +Boston. Captain Kelly introduced his comrade in the following +complimentary manner: + +"Ladies and Gentlemen: It gives me pleasure to have the honor of +introducing to you one who, by his services in the field and by the +works of his pen, is entitled to your consideration, and the confidence +of the comrades of the 'Grand Army of the Republic.' I desire to say +that he comes well accredited, furnished with the proper vouchers and +documents, and highly endorsed and recommended by the officers of the +Department of the State of New York. Though young in years, his life has +been one of varied and exciting experience. Born in the wilds of St. +Lawrence County, New York, his education was drawn from the great book +of nature; and from his surroundings he early imbibed a love of liberty. +His early associations naturally invested him with a love of adventure +and excitement, and when the call of war was heard he at once responded, +and enlisted in the Harris Light Cavalry, with which corps he passed +through many exciting scenes of march and fray. His experience amid the +various vicissitudes of the war, in camp and field and prison, have been +vividly portrayed by his pen in his various publications. Still inspired +by this love of adventure, he proposes to undertake the novelty of a +journey across the continent in the saddle. His objects are manifold. +While visiting scenes and becoming more familiar with his own country, +he will collect facts and information for a new book, and at his various +stopping-places he will lecture under the auspices and for the benefit +of the 'Grand Army of the Republic,' to whose fraternal regard he is +most warmly commended. Allow me then, ladies and gentlemen, without +further ceremony, to present to you the soldier-author, and our comrade, +Willard Glazier." + +The lecture proved a success both financially and in the marked pleasure +with which it was received by a very select audience. In fulfillment of +his generous purpose in the application of the proceeds, Glazier on the +succeeding morning addressed a letter to the Assistant Adjutant-General, +Department of Massachusetts, Grand Army of the Republic, in the +following words: + + + Revere House, + Boston, _May 9th, 1876_. + + Captain Charles W. Thompson, + A. A. G. Department of Massachusetts, G. A. R. + + Comrade: I take pleasure in handing you the net proceeds of my + lecture delivered at Tremont Temple last night, which I desire to + be divided equally between Posts 7 and 15, G. A. R., of Boston, for + the benefit of our disabled comrades, and the needy and destitute + wards of the "Grand Army." Gratefully acknowledging many favors and + courtesies extended to me in your patriotic city, + + I am yours in F., C. and L., + Willard Glazier. + + +To this the following response was received: + + + Headquarters, Encampment John A. Andrew, + Post 15, Dept. of Mass., G. A. R., + Boston, _May 12th, 1876._ + + Captain Willard Glazier: + + Comrade: In obedience to a vote of this Post, I am pleased to + transmit to you a vote of thanks for the money generously donated + by you, through our Commander, as our quota of the proceeds of your + lecture in this city; and also the best wishes of the comrades of + this Post for you personally, and for the success of your lecture + tour from sea to sea. Yours in F., C. and L., + + Edward F. Rollins, + Adjutant of Post. + + +We have said the lecture was a success, and as an evidence of the +appreciation by the audience of its subject, and the manner of its +delivery, together with the friendly feeling manifested towards the +lecturer, we adduce the following: + + + Department of Mass., + "Grand Army of the Republic." + Boston, _June 16th, 1876._ + + To _Captain Willard Glazier:_ + Dear Sir and Comrade: + + The undersigned comrades of "John A. Andrew" Encampment, Post 15, + Department of Massachusetts, G. A. R., desire to testify to the + pleasure afforded them by your lecture delivered at Tremont Temple + on May 8th; also, to return their thanks for the liberal donation + presented to this Post; and at the same time to express the hope + that you may be successful in your object and journey. + + [Signed.] + + Theodore L. Kelly, _Commander_. Thomas Langham. + Edward F. Rollins, _Adjutant_. J. Henry Brown. + W. Brooks Frothingham. George W. Powers, _Chaplain_. + James T. Price. Robert W. Storer, _Q. M. S._ + Frank Bowman. Oliver Downing. + Theodore L. Baker. James Mclean. + William S. Wallingford. + + +Before proceeding with our account of the journey, let us dwell for a +moment upon the features of the lecture prepared by Willard Glazier for +delivery at Boston. As might have been expected, it was a +military-historical lecture, adapted to the understanding and taste of a +mixed and educated audience, and was written in the same earnest, +original, patriotic and rousing style that characterizes his writings +throughout. Some parts of this lecture, in our opinion, are worthy of +comparison with the oratorical deliverances of eminent and practised +lecturers, and that the reader may judge for himself if the "Echoes of +the Revolution" lose aught of their sonorousness at this distant date, +when the reverberation reaches them through a lecture, we here present +an abstract of the opening: + + +INTRODUCTORY. + +"The year 1876 re-echoes the scenes and events of a hundred years ago. +In imagination we make a pilgrimage back to the Revolution. We visit the +fields whereon our ancestors fought for liberty and a Republic. We +follow patriots from Lexington to Yorktown. I see them walking through a +baptism of blood and of fire; their only purpose liberty; their only +incentive duty; their only pride their country; and their only ambition +victory. I see them with Warren and Prescott at Bunker Hill; I see them +with Washington at Valley Forge, hatless, without shoes, half-clad, and +often without food; encamped in fields of snow; patiently enduring the +rigors of a northern winter. I see them pushing their way through the +ice of the Delaware. I see them at Saratoga, at Bennington, at +Princeton, and at Monmouth. I follow Marion and his daring troopers +through the swamps of Georgia and the Carolinas. And, finally, we come +to that immortal day at Yorktown, when Cornwallis surrendered his sword +and command to George Washington. + +"All the world is familiar with the causes which led to the struggle for +independence in America. We all know the spirit which animated the +people of the Colonies, from the seizure of Sir Edmond Andross in 1688 +to the destruction of the tea in Boston harbor in 1774. No American is +ignorant of the efforts of John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Joseph Warren, +Patrick Henry, Alexander Hamilton, Paul Revere, and others, at clubs, in +newspapers, in pulpits, in the streets, and in coffee-houses, to guide +and prepare the people for the approaching crisis. All the facts from +the beginning to the close of that memorable conflict are given in +school-books, as well as in more pretentious history. But the immediate +cause of the march of the English troops from Boston to Concord seems to +be necessary to a comprehensive view of the subject. + + * * * * * + +"On the nineteenth of April, 1775, a handful of the yeomanry of +Massachusetts, obeying a common impulse, came hurriedly together, +confronted a force of English regulars outnumbering them ten to one, +received their fire, were repulsed, and left eighteen of their number +dead and wounded on the green in front of Lexington. On the same day, at +Concord, less than four hundred undisciplined militia met a regiment of +the enemy, fired upon them, put them to flight, and compelled them to +retire to their intrenchments at Boston. It was the first step in that +war which gave us a Republic, and may be classed in history as one of +the decisive conflicts of modern times. + +"Lexington and Concord were not the great battles of the Revolution; +they were, in fact, only skirmishes as compared with the more sanguinary +actions; but I dwell upon them as the opening scenes, the +starting-points, where the first shots were fired in an eight years' war +against British rule and British oppression in America.... + + +JOHN STARK. + +"Despair was turned into joy by the telling victories of the Americans +at Trenton and Princeton, and the country began to see that her precious +blood had not been spilled in vain. Just at this juncture of affairs, +when it was necessary to follow up the tide of victory with vigorous +work, the term of enlistment of most of the men expired, and the +personal popularity and influence of the leaders was thus put to the +test. Would the men go, or could they be induced to stay through another +term of enlistment before seeking the respite they desired at their +homes? At this critical period, John Stark made an earnest appeal to his +regiment, and every man without exception re-enlisted for six weeks +under the banner of their beloved leader. Then Stark went to New +Hampshire for recruits, and hundreds flocked around his standard. + + * * * * * + +"Soon after the surrender of Cornwallis, General Stark returned once +more to his home and farm. He had served his country long and +faithfully, and retired from his protracted period of active service +beloved by the people and full of honors. He lived to be ninety-four +years old, and consequently witnessed the war of 1812. + +"He sleeps on the banks of the Merrimac, nor heeds the noisy rush of the +river as it speeds on its mission to the sea. No clash of musketry, no +roar of cannon will ever waken him more from his last deep repose. Men +call it death, but if it be death, it is that of the body only, for his +_memory_ still lives and speaks to us across the years. It bids us be +noble and unselfish, and high of purpose, and grand of aim. Will the +oncoming generations who con the story of the life of John Stark listen +to the preaching of such an example in vain? + + +PERORATION. + +"The surrender of Cornwallis may be considered the closing scene in the +war of the Revolution. The grim spectre of British rule over the +American Colonies vanished like the smoke of battle, while hirelings +were trembling and the patriot was prince. That was indeed a day of +triumph--a day of rejoicing. It was to the patriots the crown of all +their efforts. A long, loud, thrilling shout of joy arose from the +victorious band of Washington, and as the tidings of actual surrender +were borne throughout the country, the people everywhere broke forth in +wild huzzahs that echoed and re-echoed along the plains and among the +hills, from the lakes to the gulf, and from the Atlantic to the +mountains. There was joy because there was to be no more needless +sacrifice of life; because the soldier could now exchange the camp for +his home; the implements of war for the implements of industry; the +carnage of battle for the amenities of peace. + +"The work for which they buckled on the armor was accomplished. They did +not rush to arms for the love of glory, nor to ward off an imaginary +foe. They came at their country's call, and having achieved her +independence, they were now ready for the pursuits of peace. They even +longed for the coveted seclusion of their homes, and the sweet security +of their firesides. I see them now marshaled for the last time to +receive an honorable discharge from a long campaign, the ensigns of +victory everywhere above them, the air vocal with the benedictions of a +grateful people. But on that great day of final discharge, at the last +roll-call, the heroes were not all there to answer to their names; there +were vacant places in the ranks. In the marching and counter-marching, +in the assault and in the defence; in the swamp and in the prison, mid +the fever and the pestilence, the patriots faltered not, but fell as +falls the hero, nobly daring, bravely dying, and though dead they are +not forgotten: their works do follow, and will forever live, after +them.... + +"Justice to our heroic ancestors does not forbid reference to the +equally gallant 'Boys in Blue,' who by their invincible valor on the +battle-fields of the Rebellion preserved the unity of the Republic. + +"The fight is done, and away in the far horizon the glorious days are +waxing dim. Even now, it is the bearded men who speak of Gettysburg; and +children clasp the knees that marched to Corinth and Chickamauga. Year +after year our soldiers meet to talk of glory; and year by year their +ranks grow thinner, older, grayer; and, by and by, the last survivors of +the war for the Union will sleep with their brothers who fell at Bunker +Hill." + +The press of Boston were highly commendatory in their notices of the +lecture and its delivery, as will be seen by the following extract from +the _Globe_: + + "A very fair audience, considering the unfair condition of the + elements, was gathered in Tremont Temple last night, to hear + Captain Glazier's lecture upon 'Echoes from the Revolution.' The + frequent applause of the audience evinced not only a sympathy with + the subject, but an evident liking of the manner in which it was + delivered. The lecture itself was a retrospective view of the + leading incidents of the Revolution. It would have been unfair to + expect to hear anything very new upon a subject with which the + veriest school-boy is familiar; but Captain Glazier wove the events + together in a manner which freed the lecture from that most + unpardonable of all faults, which can be committed upon the + platform--dulness. He passed over, in his consideration of the + Revolution, the old scenes up to the time when Cornwallis + surrendered up his sword and command to George Washington. 'The + year 1876,' said Captain Glazier, 're-echoes the scenes and events + of a hundred years ago. In imagination we make a pilgrimage back to + the Revolution. We visit the fields whereon our ancestors fought + for liberty and a republic. We follow patriots from Lexington to + Yorktown. I see them pushing their way through the ice of the + Delaware--I see them at Saratoga, at Bennington, at Princeton, and + at Monmouth. I follow Marion and his daring troopers through the + swamps of Georgia and the Carolinas;' and in following them up, the + lecturer interspersed his exciting narrative with sundry droll + episodes. Treating of the battles of Trenton and Princeton, he + expatiated upon the devoted heroism of John Stark, and briefly + traced his career until, at Bennington, Burgoyne's victor announced + to his comrades, 'We must conquer to-day, my boys, or to-night + Molly Stark's a widow.' One battle after another was handled by the + lecturer in a pleasing manner, showing that he was thoroughly + familiar with the subject he had chosen for his theme. After + speaking in a most zealous manner of the troops on land, Captain + Glazier remarked: 'Our victories on the ocean during the war of the + Revolution were not less decisive and glorious than those achieved + on land. John Paul Jones and the gallant tars who, under his + leadership, braved the dangers of the deep, and wrested from proud + Britain, once queen of the sea, that illustrious motto which may be + seen high on our banner beside the stars and stripes.' + + "Captain Glazier made special mention of the naval engagement + between the Bon Homme Richard and the British man-of-war Serapis, + which took place in September, 1789. He described in glowing words + the fierce nature of that memorable contest, until the captain of + the Serapis, with his own hand, struck the flag of England to the + free stars and stripes of young America. Captain Glazier has + elements in him which, carefully matured and nurtured, will make + him successful on the platform, as he has already proved himself in + the fields of literature. He has a strong and melodious voice, a + gentlemanly address, and unassuming confidence. He was presented to + the audience by Commandant Kelly, of Post 15, 'Grand Army of the + Republic,' in a brief but eloquent speech. Captain Glazier will + start on his long ride to San Francisco, from the Revere House, + this morning, at 9.30, and will be accompanied to Bunker Hill and + thence to Brighton, by several distinguished members of the 'Grand + Army,' and other gentlemen, who wish the captain success on his + long journey." + +The Boston _Post_ said: + + "The lecturer spoke with a soldier's enthusiasm of those stirring + times. In a very eloquent manner he traced the movements of the + Revolutionary heroes from that day in April, 1775, when the + undisciplined militia at Concord put the red-coats to flight and + forced them to retire to their entrenchments at Boston, onward + through the various battles to the surrender of Cornwallis. The + different acts passed in rapid succession before the audience, and + were enlivened with interesting details. In touching upon the + different battles, the lecturer descanted upon the more eminent + individuals whom the fate of war and opportunity brought to the + front, and enshrined forever in the gallery of patriots. Bunker + Hill came in for especial notice, where 'many brave and noble men + gave up their lives.'... + + "Captain Glazier was frequently and loudly applauded during the + delivery of his lecture. His voice is rich and powerful, his + intonation accurate, and his general manner could not help + imparting interest to the stirring deeds which he so graphically + delineated." + + + + +CHAPTER XXXII. + + +FROM BOSTON TO CHICAGO. + + + In the saddle.--Bunker Hill.--Arrives in + Albany.--Reminiscences.--The Soldiers' Home.--Contributions for + erecting Soldiers' Home.--Reception at + Rochester.--Buffalo.--Dunkirk.--Swanville.--Cleveland.--Massacre + of General Custer.--Monroe.--Lectures for Custer + Monument.--Father of General Custer.--Detroit.--Kalamazoo.--An + adventure.--Gives "Paul Revere" a + rest.--Decatur.--Niles.--Michigan City.--Chicago. + +From a journal kept by Captain Glazier during his horseback ride from +ocean to ocean, we shall gather most of the incidents of his journey--a +journey, so far as we are aware, without any precedent, and having for +its sole object the acquirement of knowledge. His intention was to +lecture in the leading cities and villages through which he passed, in +the interest of the relief fund of the "Grand Army of the Republic," to +which order he was greatly attached. + +The Boston _Globe_ of May ninth, 1876, contained the following brief +notice: + + "Boston to San Francisco.--Captain Willard Glazier started from the + Revere House this morning at eleven o'clock, on horseback, for San + Francisco. Quite a gathering of his friends and comrades of the + 'Grand Army' were present to wish him God-speed. He was escorted by + Colonel John F. Finley and E. A. Williston, who were mounted; and + Adjutant-General Charles W. Thompson, Department of Massachusetts, + 'G. A. R.;' Commander Theo. L. Kelly, of Post 15; Adjutant Grafton + Fenno, of Post 7, and many others in carriages, who will accompany + him to Bunker Hill and thence to Brighton." + +[Illustration: Ocean To Ocean On Horseback--riding Out Of Boston.] + +The Captain's horse, which he had named "Paul Revere," was a noble +creature, black as jet, of good pedigree, and possessing, in no slight +measure, the sterling qualities of endurance, pace, and fidelity, albeit +occasionally somewhat restive and wilful. + +On leaving the "Revere," the party referred to in the above notice +proceeded to Bunker Hill, gazed reverentially at the monument +commemorating the famous battle, and then headed for Brighton. The short +journey had been rendered comfortless by a continuous downfall of rain, +and when the friends halted at the Cattle-Fair Hotel for dinner, they +were all more or less drenched to the skin. + +Much cordial interest was manifested in the work the captain had +undertaken and the motives that actuated him; and at length, taking +leave of his friendly escort, he pushed forward through Worcester, +Springfield, Pittsfield, Nassau, and on to Albany, covering a distance +of two hundred miles. At Beckett he found "Paul's" back becoming sore, +and as a good rider is always humane to his horse, he removed the +saddle, washed the abrasion with cold water, and before resuming his +journey put a blanket under the saddle-cloth, which kindly care afforded +"Paul" considerable relief. At Pittsfield, Glazier delivered his fourth +lecture in the Academy of Music, being introduced to his audience by +Captain Brewster, Commander of the Pittsfield Post, "Grand Army of the +Republic." + +His journey from Pittsfield was by the Boston and Albany Turnpike, over +the Pittsfield Mountain, passing the residence of Honorable Samuel J. +Tilden, then Governor of New York, and a candidate for the Presidency. +Starting from Nassau at eleven o'clock, he reached the old Barringer +Homestead soon after. It was with this family that he had spent his +first night in Rensselaer County, sixteen years before, when looking for +a school to teach, and he could not resist the temptation to stop a few +minutes at Brockway's, where he had boarded the first week after +entering the school at Schodack Centre as a teacher. At the hotel he +found Mrs. Lewis, the landlady, awaiting his approach, as she had been +told he would pass that way. He also halted for a moment at his old +school-house, where he found Miss Libby Brockway, one of the youngest of +his old scholars, teaching the school. "Thoughts of Rip Van Winkle," he +says, "flitted across my imagination as I contrasted the past with the +present." + +On the eighteenth of May Captain Glazier reached the fine old city of +Albany, capital of his native State, and in the evening of the same day +delivered his fifth lecture at Tweddle Hall. + +Thrilling memories awaited him in Albany. Here, in 1859, he entered the +State Normal School. It was here his patriotism was aroused by +intelligence of the firing upon Fort Sumter, and he at once formed the +resolution to enter the army in defence of the Union; and it was in +Albany that the first edition of his first book saw the light through +the press of Joel Munsell, in the autumn of 1865. Here, it may be said, +his career in life commenced, when, leaving his country home in Northern +New York, he entered the Normal School. + +The erection of a Soldiers' Home having been recently projected, Glazier +called on the adjutant-general at the State House, in relation to his +lecturing in the interest of the fund for that purpose. Colonel Taylor, +assistant adjutant-general, whom he had known for some years, presented +him to General Townsend, and he was recommended to see and consult with +Captain John Palmer, Past Grand Commander of the State, G. A. R. + +Nothing can better prove the disinterested motives and objects of +Willard Glazier in undertaking his long and tedious journey on +horseback, than the numerous voluntary offerings he made to certain +military organizations whose claims so forcibly presented themselves to +him. This was simply characteristic of him. He has never valued money +but for the practical uses to which it may be applied in the +amelioration of the condition of others. Simple in his habits, and +unostentatious in his mode of life--indulging in no luxuries--he has +managed by sheer hard work to accumulate a fair fortune, which is of +value to him only so far as he can do good with it--first to those +having the strongest domestic claims upon him, and secondly, to his +comrades of the camp and the battle-field. + +The following letters will explain themselves: + + + Delavan House, + Albany, _May 28th, 1876_. + + Captain John Palmer, Past Grand Commander, + Department of New York, G. A. R. + + Dear Sir and Comrade: I feel great pleasure in handing you + herewith, forty dollars, which I wish to be applied to the fund for + the erection of a Soldiers' Home, as lately proposed by our + comrades at Brooklyn. Should it be your pleasure to endorse my + lecture tour across the State, I feel confident that I could raise + from five hundred to a thousand dollars for this most worthy + object. Pledging my best efforts in the work, which I hope I need + scarcely add, enlists my warmest sympathies, I have the honor to + remain, + + Yours in F., C. and L., + Willard Glazier. + + +Captain Palmer, in acknowledging the donation, wrote as follows: + + + Headquarters Department of New York, + "Grand Army of the Republic," + Albany, _May 31st, 1876_. + + Captain Willard Glazier: + + Comrade: Your gift of forty dollars to the fund for the erection of + the "Soldiers' Home" is duly received, and the same has been + forwarded to Captain E. O. Parkinson, Chairman Soldiers' Home + Committee, Brooklyn, New York, for which accept my thanks. + + Very truly yours, in F., C. and L., + John Palmer, + Department Commander. + + +On the twenty-second of May, "'Paul' being in good condition and the +best of spirits," our soldier-author started for Schenectady, paying his +respects to Captain Palmer on his way up Washington Avenue. Schenectady +was reached at four o'clock P. M. through frequent showers of rain. +Putting up at Gwinn's Hotel he delivered his lecture at Union Hall at +the usual hour in the evening, to a fair audience, notwithstanding the +rain. + +The Schenectady _Union_ had heralded his approach by the following +notice: + + "Captain Glazier.--This noted soldier, author, rider, and raider, + who raided during the war with General Kilpatrick, will advance + upon this place next Monday, and in the evening lecture upon + 'Echoes from the Revolution.' Captain Glazier is a member of the + 'Grand Army' in good standing, and will be assisted here by the + members of Post 14, with whom he will divide the profits of the + lecture. The Captain was an inmate of Libby Prison at one time + during the war, and finally made his escape to the Union lines. The + book entitled 'Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape,' and several other + war books, were produced by him." + +Reaching Fonda, May twenty-sixth, we find the following entry in his +Journal: "Scenery charming. I saw nothing in Massachusetts equal to the +Valley of the Mohawk, and am surprised that novelist and poet have not +found more material here for legendary romance." + +Passing through St. Johnsville, Little Falls, Utica, and Rome--where he +met a large number of his "Grand Army" comrades, and was introduced to +Hon. H. J. Coggeshall, Colonel G. A. Cantine, Hon. W. T. Bliss, and many +others--he arrived in Syracuse June second, registered at the Vanderbilt +House, and lectured at Shakespere Hall in the evening. Rochester was +reached on the eighth, where the tenth lecture was delivered to an +appreciative audience in Corinthian Hall--the introduction being made by +Colonel Reynolds. The Rochester _Democrat_ noticed the lecture in the +following paragraph: + + "A very large audience assembled at Corinthian Hall last evening to + listen to Captain Willard Glazier's lecture on 'Echoes from the + Revolution.' The lecture was a very interesting one, and the + audience were agreeably entertained. Captain Glazier proposes to go + to Batavia, and from thence to Buffalo. He is meeting with deserved + success in his journey on horseback from ocean to ocean, which + increases as he becomes better known." + +It may here be remarked that during Captain Glazier's stay in Rochester, +an exception was made to the usually courteous reception given him by +the local press. One of the papers threw doubts on the genuineness of +his credentials and the rectitude of his motives. This, however, had +little effect on him. He was conscious of his own integrity of purpose, +and of being guided by a desire to do good while seeking knowledge and +recreation in his own way, and the only notice we find of the +circumstance in his Journal is in a few words under date of June +eleventh: "Was pleased with an article in the _Express_, contradicting +falsehoods in the _Union_." + +The following is the article referred to: + + "On Friday our evening contemporary took occasion to treat Captain + Willard Glazier, who lectured in Corinthian Hall the night previous, + with a degree of contempt and misrepresentation suggestive of + Confederate sympathies on the part of the writer. As to the methods + of Captain Glazier's business we have nothing to do. As a man and a + soldier, he is above reproach. We have examined the original + documentary testimonials to his military character, and no man could + be better endorsed. That he has devoted himself since the war to + illustrate the war of the rebellion in books and upon the rostrum is + to his credit, and certainly to the benefit of the people whose + patriotism he keeps alive by his appeals with pen and tongue. Doubt + was cast upon his services on account of his youth. But the fact + stands that Willard Glazier was a captain of cavalry at the age of + eighteen, certainly a higher record than that of a stay-at-home + Copperhead. He performed his duty, was honorably discharged, and is + a member in good standing of that noble organization of veterans, + the 'Grand Army of the Republic.' We trust that when Captain Glazier + comes again to Rochester, he will have better treatment and a still + better audience. His trip across the continent will result in the + public's having a record of observations which cannot fail to be + valuable and entertaining." + +Batavia, Croft's Station, Crittenden and Lancaster were passed through, +the usual courtesies tendered and accepted, lectures delivered with +unvarying success, and the city of Buffalo reached on the morning of the +nineteenth of June. + +With a soldier's instinct, Glazier halted here at the parade-ground, and +witnessed the drill of the militia. He then located himself at No. 34 +Oak Street, where he was visited by many comrades of the "Grand Army" +and other prominent citizens of Buffalo. Arrangements having been made, +he lectured to a full house at St. James Hall, being introduced to the +audience by Major John M. Farquhar. The following endorsement had +appeared in the Buffalo _Express_ the day preceding his arrival in the +city, signed by prominent members of the "Grand Army of the Republic:" + + + Buffalo, New York, + _June 18th, 1876._ + + Captain Willard Glazier served his country with great credit in the + Harris Light Cavalry. He was a brave soldier and has a splendid + army record. His numerous works upon army life, recording his + personal experiences on the battle-field, in camp and in prison, + are exceedingly interesting and of a highly patriotic character; + they are universally commended by the press and by men of army + experience. + + He is highly endorsed as a member in good standing of the "Grand + Army of the Republic," and as a lecturer. + + The object of his lectures being to add to the fund for a Soldiers' + Home in this State, we most cheerfully commend him to the people of + this city, and earnestly hope he will receive a liberal patronage, + and have a full house at St. James Hall on Monday evening, the + nineteenth of June. + + [Signed] + + George N. Brown, William F. Rogers, + George W. Flynn, G. L. Remington, + John B. Weber, John M. Farquhar, + James N. Mcarthur, Charles B. Dunning, + G. A. Scroggs, Alfred Lytle, + P. J. Ripont, John A. Franke, + Richard Flash. + + +The lecture was a success, and the usual offering of the proceeds made +to the fund of the Soldiers' Home. + +"Paul" was ordered at eight o'clock the following morning, and, again in +the saddle, Glazier proceeded at a walk to North Evans, distant from +Buffalo fifteen miles. His road laid along the banks of Lake Erie, a +circumstance which he notes in his diary as one of the events of his +journey, the beauty of the scenery, and fresh, cool air from the lake +being exceedingly pleasant and grateful on a hot day in June. He rode +"Paul" down to the beach and into the water up to his girths. + +June twenty-fourth, we find the following entry: + +"My journey from North Evans to Angola has been unusually pleasant. I +could see the lake, and feel its cool refreshing influence nearly the +whole distance." + +Angola is situated on the Lake Shore Railroad, about three-quarters of a +mile from Lake Erie. Here Mr. J. S. Parker, formerly of Malone, New +York, called upon him on business connected with the lecture, and in the +course of conversation, Captain Glazier discovered that his visitor knew +many of his old neighbors and acquaintances in Northern New York. The +events of his early years along the banks of the Oswegatchie were +discussed with much interest, and it doubtless formed a pleasing episode +of his journey. The lecture was delivered with satisfactory results, at +the regular hour, in a building that had once been a church, but was now +used as the Town Hall, and the introduction made by Leroy S. Oatman. + +Dunkirk was reached June twenty-fifth, by way of the Buffalo Road. The +beautiful lake, which had been very near the road from Buffalo to +Angola, was now seldom seen, but the haying season had commenced, and +the captain's love of nature was now gratified by the lively spectacle +of the mowers and hay-makers--men, women and children at work in the +fields as he rode past. Putting up at the Eastern Hotel, he was ready +to deliver his lecture in the evening, and at Columbus Hall was +introduced to a respectable audience by the Rev. J. A. Kummer, pastor of +the Methodist church of Dunkirk. The following day being Sunday, he +attended divine service at the Rev. Mr. Kummer's church. + +Before leaving Dunkirk the following testimonial was handed him: + + + Dunkirk, New York, + _June 25th, 1876._ + + Captain Glazier: + + We desire to express to you our warm appreciation of your highly + instructive and most entertaining lecture delivered here this + evening. We trust success beyond your most sanguine expectations + will attend you in your journey; and we cheerfully recommend you + and your lecture to any and all whom our endorsement might + influence. + + [Signed] + + J. M. McWharf, M. D., + J. A. Kummer, _Pastor_, + P. B. Morrell + + +Dunkirk, with its pleasant associations, was left June twenty-seventh, +and, continuing along the Buffalo Road, our cavalier stopped for dinner +at Silver Creek. Here he found the farmers of Chautauqua County largely +engaged in the cultivation of fruit and grain. The flourishing vineyards +near Fredonia had also arrested his attention, giving promise of the +extensive cultivation of the grape which has since marked this locality. +At Westfield he lectured in the Metropolitan Hall, being introduced by +George Wilson, Esq., and on the following day passed through a fine +fruit and grain region, stopping at a village named State Line for +dinner. Here he had some trouble in finding the landlord of the +caravansary, who, combining the business of "mine host" with that of a +farmer, was at the time some distance away, industriously employed at +hoeing corn. + +At five o'clock P. M., Captain Glazier reached the flourishing little +town of North East, where he found a large crowd of people in front of +the Haynes House awaiting his arrival. He was taken by surprise when +told that he had been announced to deliver a lecture there that evening. +The band of the place escorted him to the "Hall," and, taking position +in front of the audience, played "Hail Columbia" before, and "The Sword +of Bunker Hill" after the lecture. This was a voluntary and quite an +unexpected compliment to Captain Glazier, who was sensibly affected by +it. The "Hall" was so crowded that many were compelled to stand +throughout the lecture, and if applause is any evidence of the +satisfaction of the applauders, he might fairly consider his effort to +entertain the "North Easters" a decided success. Captain Bronson Orton +introduced him to this audience, a gentleman who, although now in the +peaceful practice of the law, had been with Sherman's army in its +memorable march through Georgia. + +Arrived at Erie, Pennsylvania, June twenty-ninth, Captain Glazier was +cordially welcomed by Colonel F. H. Ellsworth, proprietor of the Reed +House, who showed him many attentions while his guest. The lecture was +delivered to a full house at the Academy of Music, the introduction +being made by Hon. C. B. Carter. + +At Swanville he became the guest of John Jacob Swan, an old and worthy +resident, after whom the village had been named. Everything was done for +his comfort by the Swan family, of which we find some pleasant +reminiscences noted in the Journal. Mr. Swan's son, Andrew, was a +lieutenant-colonel of cavalry during the civil war, and the patriarch +himself had participated in the war of 1812. "Mr. Swan was one of the +first settlers in Erie County," Captain Glazier notes, "and although +more than fifty years have passed, this old veteran still remembers +distinctly, and describes minutely, the scenes and events of his former +life. He saw the first steamer launched on Lake Erie, and says it was +regarded by the Indians as an evil omen: they styled it 'the devil's +canoe,' were greatly frightened, and ran from the lake.... Took a stroll +with Mr. Swan over his farm. He found great pleasure in showing me the +wonderful changes which a half century has wrought upon his estate." + +Taking leave of this amiable family, he left for Girard, and found P. J. +Farrington, his advance agent, awaiting him at the Central House. At the +lecture in the evening he was introduced by Jacob Bender, Esq., a brass +band adding to the entertainment, and afterwards serenading him at his +hotel. The Girard _Cosmopolite_ came out on the next morning with the +following notice of the lecture: + + "Captain Willard Glazier, the soldier-author and lecturer, now on a + journey on horseback from Boston to San Francisco, reached this + place on Saturday evening, and delivered his lecture, 'Echoes from + the Revolution,' to a highly respectable audience, at Philharmonic + Hall. He speaks with a soldier's enthusiasm of those stirring times + when our forefathers 'walked through a baptism of blood and of + fire, their only purpose liberty; their only incentive duty; their + only pride their country; and their only ambition victory.' He + traces, in a very eloquent manner, the movements of the + Revolutionary heroes from that day in April, 1775, when the + undisciplined militia at Concord put the red-coats to flight and + forced them to retire to their intrenchments at Boston, onward to + the surrender of Cornwallis to Washington.... We are credibly + informed that one of the chief objects of Captain Glazier's journey + is to make observations and collect material for another book, + which will no doubt be a very interesting one to read, and will add + still greater honors to one who, though still a young man, has + already acquired an enviable reputation as an author. After a very + cordial shake of the hand from some comrades and citizens, the + captain left the Central Hotel on his fine black horse, 'Paul + Revere,' which has brought him safely thus far from Boston since + the ninth of May, and which he proposes to ride to the Golden Gate + by the first of December next." + +July third found Captain Glazier at Ashtabula, Ohio. The people +everywhere, during his ride from Girard, were engaged in preparations +for the celebration on the following day of the glorious Centennial +Fourth. It was his intention to have lectured at Ashtabula, but he was +counselled not to do so, as almost every man and woman in the place was +upon some committee preparing for the next day's festivities, and he +would consequently get but a scant audience. He therefore concluded not +to deliver his lecture here, but to push forward on his journey. + +Under date July fourth, he writes: + + "Mounted 'Paul' at nine o'clock this morning in front of the Fisk + House, Ashtabula. Thousands upon thousands of country people were + pouring into the town as I rode out. The booming of cannon, blowing + of engine whistles, ringing of bells, and the discharge of + fire-arms of every variety and calibre, welcomed the dawn of the + One Hundredth anniversary of American Independence." + +Willard Glazier suffered no occasion to pass that presented a chance of +picking up useful information on topics connected with the localities he +rode through--their population, industries, features of the country, +prominent men, etc., his capacity for absorbing such knowledge being +large, and the intention of utilizing it in the interest of the public +having been his chief motive in undertaking the adventurous journey. The +large amount of information thus collected has been reduced to system, +and will, we trust, be shortly in the hands of the publisher. + +Cleveland--the "Forest City"--was his next destination, and on July +sixth he registered at the Forest City House, and delivered his lecture +in the evening at Garrett's Hall. He was introduced by Major E. M. +Hessler, of the "Grand Army of the Republic," who, in the name of many +citizens and in testimony of their respect for the soldier, author, and +lecturer, proposed a banquet on the following day. This, however, was +modestly and respectfully declined. The result of the lecture is shown +in the following letter: + + + National Soldiers' Home, + Dayton, Ohio, _July 27th, 1876_. + + Captain Willard Glazier: + + My dear Comrade: We have received through Major E. M. Hessler your + generous donation to aid in erecting the Soldiers' Monument at the + "Home." You have the hearty thanks of three thousand disabled + veterans now on our rolls; and a cordial invitation to visit us + whenever it is your pleasure to do so. Again we thank you. Please + find receipt from our treasurer, + + Very respectfully, + William Earnshaw, + President, Historical and Monumental Society. + + +While in Cleveland the terrible news of the massacre of General Custer +by the Indians reached Captain Glazier, who, as a cavalry officer, had +seen service with him in the late war, and felt for him that respect and +love which only a true soldier knows for a brave leader. The stunning +intelligence left a deep impression, and in due time he showed his +respect for the dead general by substantial aid rendered in the erection +of a monument to his memory. + +The following letter was received before leaving the Forest City: + + + Headquarters, Post No. 1, + "Grand Army of the Republic," Department of Ohio, + Cleveland, O., _July 12th, 1876._ + + Comrade: Through your unsolicited generosity I have the pleasure to + acknowledge the receipt of the net proceeds of your lecture on + "Echoes from the Revolution," delivered in our city July sixth, + 1876, and by your direction have forwarded the amount to Chaplain + William Earnshaw, President of the "Soldiers' Home Monumental + Fund," at Dayton, to assist in erecting a monument to the memory of + the veterans, who by the fortunes of war await the long roll at the + National Military Home: and may your reward be no less than the + love and gratitude of our unfortunate comrades. + + By order of + General James Barnett, Commanding. + E. M. Hessler, Q. M. + + +Leaving Cleveland and the many friends who had flocked around him in +that hospitable city, offering encouragement in his undertaking, Glazier +proceeded on his route, accompanied a short distance on horseback by an +old scholar named Alexander Wilsey, whose affection for his teacher had +not diminished by years of separation. Keeping along the lake-shore all +day, and not a little tormented by the shoals of mosquitoes as the +evening advanced, he rode into Sandusky City, July thirteenth, and +delivered his lecture the same evening to a fair audience. He was +introduced in a humorous and effective speech by Captain Culver, Judge +of the Probate Court. + +Fremont, the pleasant home of President Hayes, was visited, and then on +through Elmore to the flourishing city of Toledo, where he registered +at the Boody House, July seventeenth. Introduced by Dr. J. T. Woods, G. +A. R., he lectured at Lyceum Hall, to an interested audience, who +frequently signified their approval by applause. + +Passing through Erie, Michigan, Captain Glazier reached Monroe, July +twenty-fourth, the committee of the Custer Monument Association +receiving him at the City Hall. Arrangements were made for the delivery +of a lecture in the interest of the fund for the erection of the +monument. This was of course most congenial to Glazier's feelings, +Custer being his _beau ideal_ of a soldier, and he therefore at once +placed himself in the hands of the committee, offering them the entire +proceeds of the lecture. The Monroe _Monitor_, of July twenty-sixth, +noticed the proposal thus: + + "The lecture announced to be given for the benefit of the Custer + Monument Fund, on Monday evening at the City Hall, was postponed + for various reasons until Thursday evening at the same place. On + Monday evening several members of the association met Captain + Glazier, and were most favorably impressed with him. They are + convinced that he is thoroughly in earnest, and his proposition is + a most liberal one. He offers to give the entire proceeds of his + lectures to the association; and not only in this city but + throughout the State, he generously offers to do the same thing. + This is certainly deserving of the warm recognition of our own + people at least, and we hope on Thursday evening to see the City + Hall filled. Captain Glazier comes with the strongest endorsements + from well-known gentlemen in the East, both as to his character as + a gentleman and a soldier, and his ability as a speaker and writer. + The captain served under the late General Custer in the cavalry, + and has something to say regarding his personal knowledge of the + dead hero...." + +The lecture was duly delivered, and the following certificate placed in +his hands: + + + Headquarters, + Custer National Monument Association, + Monroe, Mich., _July 28th, 1876_. + + This is to certify that the proceeds of the lecture by Captain + Willard Glazier in this city on Thursday evening, July 27th, 1876, + have been paid into the treasury of this association; for which the + members hereby tender him their sincere thanks. + + T. E. Wing, + Treasurer. + + +The following also is evidence of the benevolent aims of Captain Glazier +during his journey in the saddle: + + + Headquarters, + Custer National Monument Association, + Monroe, Mich., _July 28th, 1876_. + _To Auxiliary Societies and Associations of the + Custer Monument Association:_ + + Captain Willard Glazier having kindly and generously volunteered to + devote the proceeds of his lectures through Michigan to the fund + being raised by this Association for the erection of a monument to + the memory of the late General George A. Custer, he has made + arrangements to remit to our treasurer here the money derived from + such lectures, and we bespeak for him your earnest endeavors in aid + of our common, glorious cause. Respectfully, + + J. M. Bulkley, + Secretary. + + +Before leaving Monroe, Glazier called upon Mr. E. J. Custer, the father +of the deceased general, whom he represents as nearly crushed by the +melancholy news of his son's tragic death. The worthy old gentleman was +very courteous, and showed him some photographs and an oil-portrait of +the late general, together with some relics from the Indian country +which the general had sent him at different times. Mr. Custer seemed +greatly interested in the journey on horseback, and asked the captain +many questions concerning his plans for crossing the plains. Finally, he +accompanied Captain Glazier as far as Strong's Hotel, and witnessed his +start from Monroe. During his stay in Monroe our soldier-author was +introduced to several prominent gentlemen of the place, and plans were +discussed for availing themselves of his proffered services in behalf of +the monument. The lecture was a financial success, and the whole of the +proceeds were turned over to the Treasurer, Judge T. E. Wing. "I gave +them all, although they generously offered to divide with me," is the +simple entry in his journal under date July twenty-eighth. + +Passing through Rockwood, Trenton, Wyandotte, and Ecorse, all in the +State of Michigan, he reached Detroit on the thirty-first of July, and +was met by General William A. Throop at the Russell House, as one of a +committee appointed to confer with him on the subject of his lecture. At +the usual hour the lecture was delivered to a full house at Saint +Andrew's Hall, General L. S. Trowbridge introducing the lecturer to the +audience in very complimentary terms. + +The next morning the proceeds were turned over to the monument fund as +indicated in the following letter to the treasurer, and its +acknowledgment by the local committee. + + + Detroit, Michigan, + _August 1st, 1876_. + + T. E. Wing, Esq., Treasurer, Custer National Monument Association: + + Dear Sir: I send you through General L. S. Trowbridge of this city + the net proceeds of my lecture delivered at St. Andrew's Hall last + night, the same to be applied to the fund of the Custer National + Monument Association, for the erection of a monument to the memory + of the late General Custer at Monroe. I hope and expect to be able + to send you much larger contributions as soon as the lecture season + is fairly open. My horse is still in excellent condition, and I + anticipate a delightful and successful ride across the Peninsular + State. Promising to write you again from Ypsilanti, I am + + Ever truly yours, + Willard Glazier. + + + Detroit, Michigan, + _August 1st, 1876._ + + Received of Captain Willard Glazier, forty dollars, for the benefit + of the Custer Monument Association, as the proceeds of his lecture + at Detroit on the evening of July 31st, 1876, in aid of such + association. + + [Signed] L. S. Trowbridge, + William A. Throop, + Committee. + + +While in Detroit, Captain Glazier visited all the public buildings and +places of note, enjoying the courtesies and hospitality of many of its +leading citizens; and, encouraged by the success he had met with so far +in contributing to the Custer Monument Fund, he determined to devote the +net proceeds of all his lectures delivered between Detroit and Chicago +to the same object. + +Leaving Detroit and passing through Inkster, he reached Ypsilanti +through torrents of rain, and the same evening--August fifth--received +calls at the Hawkins House from a large number of patriotic gentlemen +interested in the Custer monument. The lecture was duly delivered in +Union Hall and the proceeds handed over to the fund. + +Arrived at Jackson, "a most enterprising little city," as Captain +Glazier notes, August ninth, and delivered his lecture in the evening at +Bronson Hall, to a very full house. The Jackson _Citizen_ said on the +following morning: + + "Captain Willard Glazier lectured last evening in the interest of + the Custer Monument Fund. His lecture was a good historical review + delivered with graceful rhetoric and at times real eloquence. The + captain is still in the city giving his horse--a noble Kentucky + Black Hawk, whom he has ridden all the way from Boston, and whom he + expects to carry him to San Francisco--a rest. He starts to-morrow + morning for Battle-Creek, where he lectures on Saturday evening." + +Through Parma, Albion, and on to Battle-Creek, which was reached August +twelfth. Lieutenant Eugene T. Freeman here took the role of host and +welcomed Captain Glazier to the city, introducing him to many admirers +and friends of the late General Custer. Arrangements were completed for +the lecture, which took place at the usual hour in Stuart's Hall before +a numerous and attentive audience--the introduction being made by +Lieutenant Freeman, and the proceeds applied to the monument fund. The +following day being Sunday the lieutenant's invitation was accepted to +accompany him to church, where an introduction to the pastor, Rev. Mr. +Palmer, and others, took place. In the afternoon Captain Glazier was +agreeably surprised by an invitation from Lieutenant Freeman to ride +with him in his carriage to the delightful summer resort of that +region--Goguac Lake; and in many other ways Lieutenant Freeman +manifested a very friendly and cordial feeling for him. + +Contrary to Captain Glazier's intention on setting out from Boston he +yielded to invitations to lecture at Albion and Marshall, and, in the +interest of the Custer Monument, also determined to visit South Bend, +Indiana; and Grand Rapids, Michigan; which cities were not included in +the route he had originally marked out for himself. + +At Kalamazoo he delivered his lecture to a crowded house, being +introduced by Major Judson, late of General Custer's staff. Nearing +Comstock, Captain Glazier met with a serious adventure. His horse "Paul" +becoming frightened by the approach of a train on the Michigan Central +Railway, dashed over the embankment into the Kalamazoo River--a fall of +nearly forty feet, and the captain came very near losing his life. No +bones were broken, however, the result being happily confined to a +considerable ducking and a no less considerable scare; "Paul" having +fared as ill as his master. + +The following letters and press notices will show the nature of the +reception our soldier-author met with in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and +South Bend, respectively: + + + Kalamazoo, Michigan, + _August 18th, 1876_. + + J. M. Bulkley, Esq., + Secretary C. N. M. Association, + Monroe, Michigan. + + Dear Sir:--I have the pleasure of transmitting to Judge Wing, + through Major R. F. Judson, the net proceeds of my lecture + delivered in this place on the evening of the sixteenth instant. I + desire to accompany my gift with an acknowledgment of many + courtesies extended by the press and band of this patriotic + village. I resume my journey this afternoon and shall speak at + Niles, South Bend, and Laporte before the close of the present + week. Hoping that your brightest anticipations for the "Monument" + may be most fully realized, I remain, + + Always sincerely yours, + + Willard Glazier. + + + Kalamazoo, Michigan, + _August 19th, 1876_. + + Received of Captain Willard Glazier the net proceeds of his lecture + at this place, which sum is to be applied to the fund for the + erection of a monument to the memory of the late General Custer, at + Monroe City, Michigan. + + We take great pleasure in speaking of Captain Glazier in the + highest terms, not only on account of the self-devotion he has + manifested in a noble cause, but of his indomitable perseverance + and energy. We trust he will, wherever he goes, receive the + unanimous support of the citizens whom he addresses. + + F. W. Curtenius, + Late Colonel U. S. Volunteers. + + I take great pleasure in fully endorsing the above and recommending + to public confidence and support, Captain Willard Glazier, in his + efforts in behalf of the Custer Monument Association. + + R. F. Judson, + Late aide to General Custer. + + +From the South Bend _Herald_: + + "As heretofore announced in these columns, Captain Glazier + delivered his lecture 'Echoes from the Revolution' at the Academy + of Music last evening. Promptly at eight o'clock, the lecturer, + with Mr. J. F. Creed, appeared on the platform. Mr. Creed, in + introducing the lecturer, stated the object of the lecture to be in + aid of the Custer Monument Association of Monroe, Michigan. He also + read several letters introducing Captain Glazier to the public, + from well-known citizens of Michigan, and acknowledging receipts of + the proceeds of the lectures delivered in Detroit and Kalamazoo. + The theme of the lecture afforded a fine field for the display of + Captain Glazier's talents as a speaker. Possessing a fine + imagination, good descriptive powers, and the real qualities of an + orator, he could not fail to please the really intelligent audience + which greeted him last evening. Probably one hour and a half were + consumed in its delivery, but the interest and attention of the + audience did not flag nor tire, and when the speaker took leave of + his audience, he was greeted with several rounds of applause." + +About this time his Boston friends were notified of his progress toward +the setting sun in the following paragraph of the Boston _Inquirer_: + + "Captain Willard Glazier, who undertook in May last to ride from + this city to the Golden Gate on horseback, has reached Michigan, + and has discoursed to large audiences at the various points along + his route. The profits of his lecture at Cleveland, Ohio, were + donated to the fund at Dayton, to assist in erecting a monument to + the memory of the veterans who by the fortunes of war are destined + to await the long roll-call at the National Military Home." + +To return to his present point of departure, South Bend, Captain Glazier +having found his horse "Paul" suffering from the accident previously +recorded, and also from sore-back, had left him with a veterinary +surgeon at Michigan City for treatment, and sped on his way by rail to +Grand Rapids. Here he lectured with favorable results, having been +introduced by General Innes. + +Said the Grand Rapids _Eagle_: + + "A very large audience gathered at Luce's Hall last night to hear + Captain Willard Glazier. The speaker was earnest and impassioned, + his lecture was delivered with a force and eloquence that pleased + his hearers, and all who were in the hall went away glad that they + had been there, and ready to add to the praises that have been + bestowed on Captain Glazier as a soldier, author, and orator." + +Decatur, Dowagiac, Paw-Paw, Niles, and Buchanan, were all reached by +railway, for the purpose of giving "Paul" a rest and an opportunity of +recovering from his sore back. At Decatur, Glazier met an old comrade of +the "Harris Light," named George L. Darby, with whom a pleasant exchange +of reminiscences took place, and a cordial intercourse was renewed. +"Thirteen years," says Captain Glazier in his Journal, "have slipped +away, since the day of our capture at New Baltimore, which led him to +Belle Isle, and me to Libby Prison.... Darby called this afternoon with +fishing tackle, and proposed that we should go out to 'Lake of the +Woods,' a small lake not far from the village, and try our luck with +hook and line. We went, and a delightful boat-ride followed, but in the +matter of the fish which we tried to lure with tempting pieces of fresh +meat, they are still enjoying their native freedom." We suspect the +friends were too intent on fighting their battles o'er again to give due +attention to their occupation. + +The lecture here was delivered September fourth to a crowded house, over +two hundred persons being compelled to stand for want of room to seat +them. Captain Glazier was accompanied to the platform by several leading +citizens, among whom were Hon. Ransom Nutting, Rev. Mr. Hoyt, Professor +S. G. Burked and Albert W. Rogers, Esq., Mr. Nutting presenting him to +the audience. The following will show the opinion entertained of the +lecturer: + + + Decatur, Michigan, + _September 4th, 1876._ + + Captain Willard Glazier, + + My Dear Sir:--We take this means of expressing to you our + appreciation of the highly instructive and very entertaining + lecture delivered by you at Union Hall this evening. + + Truly we admire your plan, and your generosity in giving the entire + proceeds to the Custer Monument Fund. Our endorsement is the + expression of our village people generally. You have made many + friends here. + + May success attend you throughout your journey. + + Very respectfully, + S. Gordon Burked, + Ransom Nutting, + Albert W. Rogers. + + +Having lectured successfully at the several intermediate towns before +mentioned, Captain Glazier with "Paul" now directed his course to +Rolling Prairie, Indiana (a place romantic only in name), and thence to +Michigan City. From the latter point he journeyed by railway to Chicago, +arrangements having been made for the delivery of his lecture in that +city for the benefit of the monument fund. A very full house greeted him +at Farwell Hall. Major E. S. Weedon in introducing the lecturer alluded +in an eloquent and touching manner to the record of the gallant Custer. +The lecture throughout its delivery was much applauded by the audience, +who appeared greatly interested; and the proceeds reached a handsome +sum. + +The following entry occurs in the Journal under date, Chicago, September +12th, 1876: + +"I shall now push on to Omaha and Cheyenne as rapidly as possible, in +the hope of passing Sherman at the summit of the mountains before the +snow is too deep to interrupt my progress. There are nine steps in my +journey from Boston to San Francisco, namely, Albany, Buffalo, Toledo, +Chicago, Omaha, Cheyenne, Salt Lake City, Sacramento, and San Francisco. +I have now taken four of these nine steps, and shall undertake to pass +the five remaining points by the first of December." + + + + +CHAPTER XXXIII. + + +FROM CHICAGO TO OMAHA. + + + Returns to Michigan City.--Joliet.--Thomas Babcock.--Herbert + Glazier.--Ottawa.--La Salle.--Colonel Stevens.--Press + Notice.--Taken for a highwayman.--Milan.--Davenport.--Press + Notice.--Iowa City.--Des Moines.--Press Notice.--Attacked by + prairie wolves.--Council Bluffs.--Omaha. + +Captain Glazier having succeeded so far in his novel and adventurous +undertaking, felt little concern as to his ability to accomplish the +entire journey from ocean to ocean. He had ridden but one horse--his +faithful "Paul," thus far, and having returned to Michigan City, found +him quite recovered and ready to pursue the journey. On the sixteenth of +September he took his departure from the latter city, and after riding a +distance of twenty-eight miles, rested for the night at Hobart, Indiana. + +On the seventeenth he crossed the boundary between Indiana and Illinois. +On Grand Prairie, after dark, his ears were made familiar with the +peculiar howl of the prairie wolf, numbers of which followed in his +track for a distance of two or three miles. Not having seen any of these +animals before, he supposed them at first to be dogs, until advised by +"Paul's" manner and movements that they were animals less friendly to +his equine companion. + +At four o'clock in the afternoon, Glazier rode into Joliet, and met Mr. +Thomas Babcock, his advance agent, on Jefferson Street. Preparations had +been made here for the delivery of the lecture, and several prominent +citizens called upon him, having heard of his projected visit to the +place. His brother Herbert, who was also acting in the capacity of +advance agent, had departed to Ottawa to prepare for a lecture there on +the twentieth. While at Joliet, Captain Glazier stopped at the Robertson +House, the proprietor of which, Mr. Conklin, sent word through the +agent, that the captain was to consider himself his guest. + +At the suggestion of Mr. Conklin, Captain Glazier on leaving Joliet, +rode his horse along the tow-path of the Michigan Canal, and borrowing a +hook and line from a gentleman who was fishing, caught twenty-three +perch in less than half an hour, the canal seeming literally alive with +this fish. + +Leaving Morris, in Grundy County, Illinois, his journey lay along the +north bank of the Illinois River, and after encountering a very severe +rain storm, he reached Ottawa, September twentieth, stopping at the +Clifton House. From the proprietors of this hotel he received many +courtesies. The lecture, as arranged, was delivered in the evening with +the usual satisfactory results. + +On leaving Ottawa, the captain followed the telegraph poles along the +Illinois River, passing a large number of very fine corn-fields, and +overtaking an emigrant train on its journey from Ohio to Western +Nebraska. La Salle was reached at six o'clock on the evening of the +twenty-first. Here he enjoyed the society and hospitality of Colonel R. +C. Stevens, and was introduced to a number of other prominent gentlemen, +who were attracted to him by their interest in the projected monument to +General Custer. The lecture was delivered at Opera Hall, Colonel Stevens +making the introduction. The following letter may be presented here to +show the estimation in which Captain Glazier continued to be held as he +progressed in his journey westward: + + + La Salle, Illinois, + _September 25th, 1876_. + + To Captain Willard Glazier: I take pleasure in expressing to you on + behalf of many of our citizens, the gratification afforded our + people who listened to your instructive and entertaining lecture + given at Opera Hall on Saturday evening. While in conversation with + several of our prominent citizens--among them, W. A. Work, + superintendent of our public schools; A. J. O'Connor, clerk of the + City Court; W. T. Mason, Esq., and others; all of whom were present + and heard your lecture--I was requested to write you and tender + their hearty thanks for the entertainment, and their good wishes + for your success in your ride across the continent. Should you ever + again visit our city, you can rest assured you will be most + cordially received. + + Very truly yours, + R. C. Stevens, + Late Colonel U. S. Volunteers. + + +The La Salle _County Press_ noticed the lecturer in the following terms: + + "We have not often met with a more agreeable and pleasant gentleman + than Captain Willard Glazier, who entertained a very respectable + number of our citizens at Opera Hall on Saturday evening by + delivering a lecture on 'Echoes from the Revolution.' The captain + has a fine voice and his manner of delivery is decidedly + interesting, while his language is eloquent and fascinating. His + description of the battles of the Revolution, and the heroes who + took part in them, from the engagement on the little green at + Lexington down to the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown, was + grand indeed, and was received with frequent and enthusiastic + applause. In conclusion he referred in an eloquent and touching + manner to the 'Boys in Blue' who took part in the late war for the + Union, and all retired from the hall feeling that the evening had + been spent in an agreeable and profitable manner. + + "Captain Glazier served under Generals Kilpatrick and Custer during + the late war, since which time he has devoted much labor to + writing, and is now making the attempt to cross the continent from + Boston to San Francisco on horseback, for the purpose of collecting + material for another work. He left Boston in the early part of May, + and will endeavor to reach the Sacramento Valley before the fall of + the deep snow. His horse, 'Paul Revere,' is a magnificent animal, + black as a raven, with the exception of four white feet. He was + bred in Kentucky, of Black Hawk stock, has turned a mile in 2.33, + but owing to his inclination to run away on certain occasions, was + not considered a safe horse for the track. The captain, however, + has broke him to the saddle, and also convinced him that running + away is foolish business; consequently he and the captain have + become fast friends, and with 'Paul' for his only companion, the + gallant cavalryman proposes to cross the continent. Success attend + him!" + +Having heard at La Salle that he would find no difficulty in securing a +night's lodging at a village named Hollowayville, Captain Glazier pushed +on for that point, but on applying at the only place of accommodation +for travellers, was looked upon suspiciously by the German host and his +_frau_, who politely intimated their belief that he was either a +highwayman or a horse-thief! These latter gentry had for some time +infested that section of Illinois, and Glazier inferred from the manner +of the people that they more than half suspected him to be one of the +James or Younger brothers, whose exploits they had probably read of. + +Turning his back on the "Grand Pacific Hotel," he at length succeeded by +dint of much perseverance, in lodging himself and "Paul" at a farm-house +for the night, but not before he had fully satisfied the worthy farmer +and his wife that he had no evil designs in desiring to spend the night +with them. + +On the following day, September twenty-fifth, the captain rode through a +rich farming country, replete with "corn-fields, fine stock and oceans +of fruit." + +Passed through Wyanet, Annawan, and across the prairie--smiling +corn-fields and ripe orchards occasionally relieving the seemingly +interminable ocean of grass--and arrived at Milan, Illinois, on the +evening of the twenty-seventh, remaining for the night. + +Here he met a Mr. Pullman, an old and intelligent miner who had recently +arrived from the Pacific coast, from whom he obtained valuable +information concerning the country between Omaha and Sacramento. He also +found a number of congenial spirits at Milan, chiefly New Yorkers, who +had spent some years in the Far West, and their conversation partook of +a practical nature bearing on his journey. + +Leaving Milan on the following day, he crossed the Government Bridge, +which unites Rock Island with the fine city of Davenport, Iowa, and +registered at the Burtis House--the rider and his horse continuing in +the best of health. + +The lecture at Davenport was delivered at the usual hour at Moore's Hall +to a very large and applauding audience, General Sanders presenting him. +The brass band of the place volunteered their services, and appeared in +full uniform. The Davenport _Gazette_ of October fourth said: + + "The lecture of Captain Willard Glazier at Moore's Hall last + evening was attended by a large and appreciative audience. The + captain was introduced by our worthy fellow-citizen, General + Sanders, who spoke of the lecturer's career as a soldier and an + author, and said he was _en route_ for the Pacific coast on + horseback, and lecturing for the benefit of the Custer Monument + Fund...." + +The following notice is taken from the _Democrat_ of the same city: + + "We had the pleasure of meeting Captain Glazier this morning, who + arrived here on horseback from La Salle on Saturday evening. He is + making the journey from Boston to San Francisco on horseback, and + alone, for the purpose of seeing the country, studying the people, + and gathering materials for a new work he is engaged upon. Captain + Glazier is well known to fame as a writer, having published several + valuable works, among them a war-record entitled, 'Capture, + Prison-Pen and Escape.' + + "At the breaking out of the war, Willard Glazier, then a mere + youth, entered the Harris Light Cavalry, under Colonel Judson + Kilpatrick, and remained in the service until the close of the + rebellion, his career being marked by many adventures and + hair-breadth escapes. His feat of riding on horseback across the + continent, unattended, to gather materials for a book, is certainly + without a precedent, and shows a brave and intrepid spirit. His + horse 'Paul' was an object of great curiosity and interest." + +Leaving Davenport, our traveller passed through Moscow and reached Iowa +City October fifth. The weather was now becoming very cold, and he found +it necessary to dismount occasionally and walk some warmth into his +limbs. + +Registering at the St. James Hotel, Iowa City, Captain Glazier lectured +in the evening to a very full house, a profusion of cheers greeting him +on his arrival upon the platform, whither he was escorted by George B. +Edmunds, Esq. + +Continuing his journey through Tiffin and Brooklyn to Kellogg, all in +the State of Iowa, he witnessed, he says, some of the finest landscapes +and grandest farms he had yet encountered during his journey. He rode +into Colfax, October twelfth, and Des Moines on the following day. + +[Illustration: A Night Among Wolves.] + +"I have not seen a brighter or more stirring city in my line of march +than Des Moines," writes Captain Glazier in his Journal. He wandered +over the city in company with two or three of the leading citizens, +admiring its numerous fine buildings and the evidences of its rapid +progress; and the next day the Des Moines _Leader_ came out with the +following notice of his visit: + + "Captain Willard Glazier, the horseback traveler across the + continent, took in the Exposition on Saturday evening with intense + gratification. He says he has seen no place, on his route from + Boston, more promising than Des Moines. Among the calls he received + at the Jones House was one from Captain Conrad, a prominent + attorney from Missouri, and now settled in his profession in this + city, who was a fellow-captive with Captain Glazier in Libby Prison + during the rebellion. He continued his journey westward yesterday, + with the best wishes of the friends he has made during his short + stay here." + +Captain Glazier speaks very highly of the extremely courteous treatment +he received while at Des Moines. + +Adel, and Dale City, and Minden were passed, and arriving at Neola, we +find the following entry in the journal: "Weather most disagreeable. A +drizzling rain made my ride to this place decidedly gloomy. My journey +to-day, as usual, since entering Iowa, has been over the boundless, +never-ending prairie. I have never in my life beheld a grander sight +than this afternoon, when I reached the summit of an immense tableland +between Avoca and Minden." + +Wishing to reach Anita before halting for the night, he ventured to +continue on the road after dark, although for some time before sunset he +had been unable to see a farm-house or even a tree as far as the eye +could reach. Giving "Paul" the rein, he followed a blind road, after +crossing a sluice-way, which ultimately led them to a haystack on the +prairie, where the captain decided to spend the night. A pack of prairie +wolves, or coyotes, soon came upon the scene, several of which he shot, +but he was shortly after reinforced by a friendly dog, who came to his +rescue and kept the coyotes at bay for the remainder of the night. In +the morning at daybreak he was glad enough to say adieu to the haystack +where he had passed one of the most unpleasant nights of his journey. + +It may here be mentioned that the _coyote_ partakes of the natures of +the dog and the wolf, and is less dangerous to encounter in the summer +than in the winter, which is a characteristic of its wolfish nature. In +the winter, when food is scarce, these animals will attack man, but if a +bold resistance is offered, they speedily decamp. + +Hastening forward on his journey through various small and more or less +enterprising cities of the prairie, our traveler reached Council Bluffs +at eight o'clock in the evening of October twentieth. This promising +city is located three miles east from the Missouri River, and contains +an enterprising population of some 20,000; its history dating from 1804. +The locality is surrounded by high bluffs, and hence the name given to +the city. + +Striking the Missouri opposite Omaha, our horseman found he would be +compelled to ride up the bank of the river and cross by ferry to the +northern section of the city. On reaching the boat, "Paul" declined to +embark, but with some encouragement and assistance he was at length made +to understand that when rivers cannot be bridged or forded, they can +sometimes be ferried, and so yielded to necessity. + +Omaha is almost equidistant between the Atlantic and Pacific, and has +sprung up, flourished and waxed great in the twinkling of an eye. It is +now the grand gateway through which the western tide of travel and +emigration is passing. The first house was erected here in 1853, and the +population now numbers in the neighborhood of 30,000. Omaha can boast +of as fine business blocks, hotels, school-buildings and churches as can +be found in many older and more pretentious cities in the East. There +are also numerous elegant private residences, with grounds beautifully +ornamented with trees and shrubbery, which sufficiently attest the solid +prosperity of Omaha's business men. + +A story is told of the postmaster of Omaha which illustrates the changes +made during the past few years. Mr. Jones, one of the first pioneers, +was appointed to the office of postmaster in the autumn of 1854. At that +time there was no office, while letters were rarities. The few letters +that did come were kept by the postmaster in the crown of his hat till +he met their owners. Only a few years have elapsed since this primitive +state of things, and the post-office of Omaha has expanded from a hat +into a handsome stone building, worth $350,000, in which some twenty +clerks find full employment. + +Hearing of the impossibility of riding his valuable horse across the +Alkali Plains, he resolved to leave him at Omaha until his return from +San Francisco, and to continue his journey on a mustang. In these plains +the soil for two or three feet seems saturated with soda, and so poisons +the water that if drunk by man or beast, after a fall of rain, is sure +to be fatal. "Paul" was therefore turned over by his master to the care +of G. W. Homan, proprietor of the Omaha Livery Stable; and a good +serviceable mustang purchased of a Pawnee Indian, to replace him. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXIV. + + +CAPTURED BY INDIANS. + + + Captain Glazier as a horseman.--Cheyenne.--Two herders.--Captured + by Indians.--Torture and death of a herder.--Escape.--Ogden.-- + Letter to Major Hessler.--Kelton.--Terrace.--Wells.--Halleck.-- + Elko.--Palisade.--Argenta.--Battle Mountain.--Golconda.-- + Humboldt.--"The majesty of the law."--Lovelock's.--White + Plains.--Desert.--Wadsworth.--Truckee.--Summit.--Sacramento.-- + Brighton.--Stockton.--SAN FRANCISCO. + +Having made several friends in Omaha, and obtained all the information +within his reach concerning the remaining half of the journey, Captain +Glazier mounted his mustang and proceeded on his route across the State +of Nebraska. Over the great plains that lie between the Missouri River +and the mountains, his nerve as a horseman was most thoroughly tested, +and not less so, the mettle of his mustang, which carried him a distance +of five hundred and twenty-two miles in six days. The approach of winter +suggested the importance of reaching his destination at the earliest +possible date; therefore on riding into Cheyenne October twenty-eighth, +he lost no time in arranging to continue his journey. + +The weather now became intensely cold, as he neared the highest point in +his line of march. Since leaving Omaha, the ascent had been gradual but +continuous, and the point now reached was eight thousand feet above the +sea-level. + +Cheyenne, the "Magic City of the Plains," about five hundred and twenty +miles west of Omaha, stands at an elevation of six thousand feet above +the level of the sea, and is perhaps the most progressive city west of +Chicago. It is the capital of Wyoming Territory, the county-seat of +Laramie County, and is the largest town between Omaha and Salt Lake +City. The gold discoveries in the Black Hills of Dakota added greatly to +its prosperity. In proportion to its population, Cheyenne has more +elegant and substantial business houses than most any other western +city. This is a wonderful change from a place known the world over by +its fearful sobriquet of "Hell on Wheels." Churches have risen where +gamblers once reigned, and many other edifices for religious and +educational purposes have been erected. Cheyenne is the trading-post for +the thousands of ranchemen and stock-raisers of the plains at the base +of the Black Hills, and like all other frontier cities, has a history. +It was once a very fast town, and it is not very slow now. + +On leaving Cheyenne he was accompanied by two herders, who were on their +way to Salt Lake City with a few mustangs and ponies. It was the custom +of Captain Glazier to have company in his rides through this wild region +whenever he could do so, and having made the acquaintance of these men +in the city, it was arranged that they should journey together as far as +their respective routes led them. The men were of the usual stamp of +herders, rough in exterior and plain of speech, but apparently worthy of +trust. The captain was not wanting in discernment, and his cordial +manner won their confidence. + +Sherman having afforded them a night's shelter and refreshment, their +course lay in the direction of the Skull Rocks, a huge mass of granite +on the Great Laramie Plains, and so called from the resemblance of the +rocks to human skulls. + +The Skull Rocks being in front of them at no great distance, the +conversation of the party turned upon their peculiar configuration, and +opinions were advanced by each of a more or less intelligent character; +the herders insisting on the probability of their having plenty of gold +in them. Suddenly, over a slight elevation in the land, appeared a body +of Indians, in number about thirteen or fourteen. Glazier and his +companions were not at first surprised, as Indians are often found on +these plains--some friendly and some hostile--but mostly those of the +friendly tribes. The Indians now advancing upon them were clearly not on +a friendly errand, and were pronounced by the herders to be a detachment +of the Arrapahoes. They were decked in their war-paint, and on seeing +the white men immediately raised their war-shout, which, as travellers +on the plains are aware, always indicates an intention to attack. + +The herders, knowing that they were in the presence of an enemy who +would speedily relieve them of their merchandise, made conciliatory +signs, by raising their hands, a signal which is equivalent to a flag of +truce, and is so understood on the plains. The signal of truce was, +however, ignored by the red-skins, who continued to advance at a rapid +pace, gradually forming a circle around Glazier and his companions. This +is the usual Indian form of attack. The circle is kept constantly in +rapid motion, the Indians concentrating their fire upon a stationary +object in the centre of the circle, while they render themselves a +constantly shifting target, and are thus comparatively safe from the +fire of the centre. + +[Illustration: Captain Glazier Captured By Indians Near Skull +Rocks, Wyoming Territory.] + +Riding around, and firing at intervals of a minute or two at Glazier and +his companions, the latter did their best to defend themselves, and +fired in return upon their cowardly assailants, who showed no desire for +a parley. The firing from the centre was made over the backs of the +ponies and mustangs, who in such emergencies are made to do duty as a +breastwork. The circle of red-skins gradually lessened in diameter, as +the firing on both sides continued, when a shot from the carbine of the +Mexican herder killed one of the Indians. + +The circle continued to grow less, until the Indians in a mass rushed on +the three whites, disarmed them, secured them to each other with thongs +at the wrists, and appropriated as their own the mustangs and ponies, +which had been their primary object. + +Before yielding, Captain Glazier and his little squad had nearly +exhausted their ammunition, and felt that further resistance was not +only useless, but would certainly cost them their lives. Without loss of +time, the prisoners were compelled to mount, and the entire party--less +one Indian killed--started off in a northerly direction. + +Ignorant of their destination, the herders expressed their belief that +they would in a few days find themselves in the presence of Sitting +Bull, when their fate would be decided. They continued to ride at a full +trot till about ten o'clock, when the whole party dismounted and camped +for the night. A fire was speedily built, and some antelope beef +partially roasted for their supper, of which the prisoners also +partook. + +The supper over, an animated conversation ensued among the Indians, +while sundry furtive glances were cast in the direction of the Mexican +who had killed one of their party during the attack in the morning. For +a time they shouted and violently gesticulated, while one of them was +observed driving a thick pole into the ground, at about fifty yards from +the fire, around which the party and the prisoners squatted. Presently, +at a sign from one of the Indians, supposed to be a chief named +"Dull-Knife," four of the red-skins seized the Mexican and forced him +towards the stake, where they stripped him to the skin, and then bound +him to it with thick cords. The whole party then, without further +ceremony, proceeded to torture the wretched man to death, as a +punishment for his presumption in killing one of their party while +defending himself from their murderous attack near the Skull Rocks. They +heated their arrow-shafts in the fire, and held them in contact with his +naked flesh, while others, at a distance of a few feet from their +victim, cast at him their sharp-pointed knives, which, penetrating the +body, remained embedded in the flesh, until he nearly died from the +agony. One of the party now advanced with a revolver, and shot him in +the head, thus ending his sufferings. + +While the torture was proceeding, Captain Glazier and the remaining +herder lay on the ground bound together by thick cords, and could offer +no assistance to their tortured companion. The Mexican being dead, one +of the party removed his scalp and fastened it to his waist, after which +all sat down around the fire and seemed in high glee for the remainder +of the evening, for the most part shouting and speech-making. + +Willard Glazier had never before witnessed a case of torture by the +Indians. It is true it was of a different character from that he and +many of his old comrades had endured in Southern prisons; but in one +respect was more merciful, as the sufferings of their victim were soon +ended, while his own and his comrades extended over many months; in the +one case the body was burnt and lacerated--in the other it was starved +and emaciated. + +The horses of the party having been tethered by long ropes to stakes, to +enable them to graze during the night, a guard of two Indians was placed +in charge of the prisoners, who, still bound together at the wrists, +were made to lie down side by side, with an Indian on either hand. The +remainder of the red-skins then disposed themselves around the fire for +sleep. + +Glazier and his companion slept but little, but pretended to do so. They +were continually on the alert, and the guard, believing their prisoners +to be asleep, dozed, and at length reclined their bodies in a restless +sleep. About two o'clock in the morning, the two Indians were relieved +by two others, and all remained quiet in the camp. At the first streak +of dawn, the whole body leaped to their feet and were ready to resume +their march northward. Glazier and the herder were assigned each a +mustang, which they quietly mounted under the close scrutiny of their +guards, and the entire party started off at a brisk trot. + +No attempt at escape having yet been made by the captives, the +surveillance became somewhat relaxed throughout the day, and the +attention of the party was given to their own proper business of +foraging. Wherever an opportunity offered, a momentary halt was called, +and one of the party creeping cautiously up to a stray pony, would take +possession by the simple process of mounting and riding him away. If +more than one animal was to be appropriated, an equal number of Indians +were detailed for the "duty," and each leaping on the mustang or pony he +had selected, would ride off as only these freebooters of the plains can +ride, with little prospect of being overtaken by the owners. Thus the +day passed; as a rule, half the number of the Indians remaining as a +guard to the prisoners, while the others foraged for food, and anything +that could be conveniently carried off. They were now skirting the Black +Hills, and Glazier had discovered by this time that they were making +their way to their general rendezvous, about one hundred miles from +Deadwood. + +As the second night overtook the captives, the process of the previous +night was repeated: they built their fire, cooked and ate their antelope +steaks, and then prostrated themselves around the fire for the night. +The captives were again bound together at the wrists, and lay between +their two guards. Our friend was, however, on the alert and wide awake, +though pretending to be asleep. Quietly he passed the fingers of one +hand over the cords that bound his other to his companion, and concluded +that with patience and vigilance the knot could be unfastened. While the +guards dozed and slept as on the preceding night, the eyes of the +prisoners stealthily sought the ponies and the arms. + +The latter were always placed at the head of each sleeper, to be ready +for immediate use in case of a surprise. Captain Glazier and his +companion were fully convinced that any attempt to escape, if detected, +would be followed by immediate torture and death; but were, +nevertheless, resolved to make the effort. It was also known that if +they quietly accompanied the Indians to their rendezvous or +headquarters, they would be retained as hostages, probably for a long +period, and be subject at any time to be tortured should a fit of +vengeance seize their captors. They would not, however, make an attempt +to escape unless there appeared a moral certainty of its successful +accomplishment. + +The third day arrived, and at dawn, after partaking of the usual +breakfast of raw antelope or other game, they started again on their +march. They rode all day, with the usual stoppages for forage, and about +eight o'clock in the evening camped, supped, and lay down for the night, +as before, after assigning the usual night-guards to the prisoners, who +were again bound together. + +Glazier, with the experience he had obtained in the South, and his +companion, with his intimate knowledge of the plains, kept themselves +constantly on the alert, prepared to take advantage of any opportunity +that offered to escape from their captors. They had each fixed his eye +on a pony in the herd. These animals were turned out to graze with their +saddles on, in order that they might be ready for instant use, if +required, in the night. The prisoners began snoring loudly under +pretence of being asleep, and at the same time the guards dozed and +slept at intervals, but were restless until about midnight, when they +both succumbed and were fast asleep. + +Glazier now worked at the cord on his wrist, and found he could unfasten +it. While so doing, one of the Indians moved in his sleep, and +immediately all was still as death with the captives. At length the +time had arrived, the complicated knot was loosened, and the noose +slipped over his hand, which at once gave him and his partner liberty of +action. They knew where the arms lay, and each in the twinkling of an +eye secured a large navy revolver without disturbing the Indians. They +then simultaneously struck the two sleeping guards a powerful blow on +the head with the butt of their revolvers. The Indian struck by the +herder was nearly killed by the heavy blow, while Glazier's man was only +stunned. They then made for the ponies, leaped into the saddles, and +before any of the other Indians had shaken off their heavy slumber, had +struck out with all their might in the direction from which they had +come, and in the opposite one, therefore, to that in which the Indian +party were proceeding. + +In a moment, however, the pursuit commenced in earnest; vociferations +implying vengeance of the direst character if they did not halt, were +flung through the darkness, which only had the effect of spurring the +fugitives to still greater speed. Glazier turned in his saddle and sent +a bullet among his pursuers in reply to their peremptory invitation to +him to halt. Another and another followed, and one Indian was +dismounted, but the darkness prevented his seeing if his other shots had +told. The Indians meanwhile, who had plenty of ammunition, were not slow +in returning the fire, but luckily without any worse result than to +increase the pace of the flying ponies. + +[Illustration: Escape From The Arrapahoes.] + +Away they tore at the top of their speed, and soon entered a canyon in +the mountain side. Only two or three of the Indians could now be seen in +pursuit, and the herder, saying it would be better for both if they +took different directions, at once struck off through a ravine to the +right, and left Glazier alone. One Indian was observed to follow, but +Glazier sent a bullet into the enemy's horse, and thus put a stop to +further pursuit. The Indian now leveled his carbine at Glazier and +dismounted him; and the latter's ammunition being exhausted, he ran off +towards a gulch, and leaping in, remained hidden until daylight. Finding +the coast clear in the morning, he emerged and at once set out walking +in a southwesterly direction, which eventually brought him to a +cattle-ranche, the owner of which supplied him with refreshment and a +fresh mustang. Again turning his face to the west he pursued his way, +covering the ground between himself and the Golden Gate at the rate of +sixty miles per day. + +Ogden, in the northern extremity of Utah, about forty miles from Salt +Lake City, and five hundred and eleven from Cheyenne, was reached +November thirteenth, after hard riding and sundry stoppages at ranches +in quest of hospitality and information. No event occurred more exciting +than the shooting of a buffalo that crossed his path--this being the +third, beside sundry antelopes and several prairie wolves that had +fallen to his revolver, in the course of his journey since leaving +Omaha. On riding into Ogden, Captain Glazier was surprised to find it so +important a city. It forms the western terminus of the Union Pacific, +and the eastern terminus of the Central Pacific, railroads, and is the +second city in size and population in the Territory of Utah. Besides the +churches, a Mormon tabernacle was noticed, the population being largely +of the polygamic persuasion and yielding their allegiance to the prophet +of Salt Lake City. + +One peculiarity of the towns in these western territories is the running +streams of water on each side of nearly every street, which are fed by +some mountain stream and from which water is taken to irrigate the +gardens and orchards adjoining the dwellings. Ogden has a bright future +before it. It is not only the terminus of the two great +trans-continental lines before mentioned, but is also the starting-point +of the Utah Central and Utah Northern railroads. Vast quantities of iron +ore can be obtained within five miles of the city, and in Ogden canyon +discoveries of silver have been made. Fruit-growing is very common in +the vicinity, and a large quantity of the best varieties grown in the +Territory are produced around Ogden. Utah apples, peaches and pears are +finer in size, color and flavor than any grown in the Eastern or Middle +States. + +November eighteenth, Captain Glazier heard from his advance agent, Mr. +Walter Montgomery, then in Sacramento, who was in ignorance of the +captain's adventure among the Indians after leaving Cheyenne, except +that certain startling rumors had reached him of the captain having been +killed by the Sioux. Mr. Montgomery had accordingly written to various +points for information of the missing horseman; and to allay the fears +of his numerous well-wishers, who were in doubt as to his safety, +Captain Glazier, after leaving Ogden, wrote the following summary of his +adventure, addressed to his friend, Major E. M. Hessler, of Cleveland, +Ohio: + + + Wild Cat Ranche, + In Ogden Canyon, Utah, + _November 18th, 1876_. + + Major E. M. Hessler, + Cleveland, Ohio. + + Dear Sir and Comrade: I learn through my advance agent Mr. + Montgomery, that a letter, manifesting some anxiety for my + welfare, was recently addressed to you. I hasten to say that I am + again in the saddle, and although for three days the guest of the + Arrapahoes, I am still in the best of spirits, and with even more + hair than when I left Cleveland. I should be pleased to give you a + detailed account of my adventures among the red-skins, but have + only time to tell you that I started from Cheyenne, October + twenty-eighth, accompanying two herders who were on their way to + Salt Lake City with a small drove of mustangs and Indian ponies. We + were attacked on the thirty-first of the same month by a straggling + band of Arrapahoes, near Skull Rocks, on the Laramie Plains. One + Indian was killed, and my companions and myself were made prisoners + after using up nearly all our ammunition in the effort to repulse + our assailants. The herder whose fire killed the Indian was + afterwards tied to a stake and most cruelly tortured to death. + Bound to my remaining companion with thongs, we were on the + following morning placed upon ponies and marched rapidly to the + northward. + + Breaking away from our captors on the night of November second by + disabling two of our guards, we were followed some miles, firing + and receiving the fire of the Indians as we galloped off on two of + their ponies which we had appropriated. After being dismounted by a + shot, and dismounting the Indian who had killed my horse, I finally + eluded my pursuers by leaping into a gulch in the mountains, where + I remained until daylight, when, finding no Indians in sight, I + pursued my way on foot in a southwesterly direction, which brought + me to a cattle-ranche late in the afternoon. Here I secured a fresh + mustang, and once more turned my face toward the setting sun. + + My money and personal effects were of course promptly taken + possession of by the Arrapahoes. I am now moving westward at an + average of over sixty miles per day, confidently expecting to reach + San Francisco by the twenty-fourth instant. In our encounter on the + Laramie Plains, five members of the "Lo!" family were sent to their + Happy Hunting Ground, and in the matter of scalps you may score at + least two for your humble servant. + + With kind regards to friends in Cleveland, I close this letter to + mount my horse, + + And remain, ever truly yours, + Willard Glazier. + + +Captain Glazier's main object now was to push on to Sacramento as fast +as his mustang would carry him. Kelton (Utah), at the northwest corner +of Salt Lake, was accordingly reached soon after leaving Ogden, where he +halted a few hours. This station is seven hundred and ninety miles from +San Francisco. Stock is extensively grazed in its vicinity, feeding on +sage brush in the winter and such grass as they can get; but excellent +grazing is found in the summer. The cattle are shipped to markets on the +Pacific coast in large numbers. Terrace (Utah) was the next +resting-place, seven hundred and fifty-seven miles from San Francisco, +in the midst of a desert with all its dreary loneliness. Continuing his +pace at an average of eight miles per hour--the temperature being very +low at an elevation of nearly five thousand feet--Captain Glazier +observed a few only of the salient features of the wild country he now +passed through, his position on horseback being less favorable for +topographical study than that of the tourist comfortably seated in a +palace-car. + +Wells (Nevada) was duly reached by the lonely rider, who found on +inquiry that he was now only six hundred and sixty-one miles from his +destination. This place stands at an elevation of five thousand six +hundred and twenty-nine feet. Humboldt Wells, as they are designated, +give celebrity to the place, which was a great watering-station in the +days of the old emigrant travel. The emigrants always rejoiced when they +had passed the perils of the Great American Desert and arrived at these +springs, where there was always plenty of pure water and an abundance of +grass for the weary animals. Hence it was a favorite camping-ground +before the existence of the Pacific Railroad. The wells are very deep. A +Government exploring party, under command of Lieutenant Cuppinger, +visited the spot in 1870, and took soundings to a depth of seventeen +hundred feet without finding bottom. + +Halleck (Nevada) was the next resting station, at an elevation of five +thousand two hundred and thirty feet. It is named from Camp Halleck, +about thirteen miles from the station, where two or three companies of +United States troops are usually kept. The land around is mostly +occupied as stock-ranges. + +Elko (Nevada), twenty-four miles nearer his destination, supplied his +wants in the way of rest and food for the night. This is the county-seat +of Elko County, the northeastern county of the State. The town has a +population of 1500, and is destined to become an important city. The +money paid for freights consigned to this place and the mining districts +which are tributary to it, averages $1,000,000 per year. There are +numerous retail stores, and a few wholesale establishments, with a bank, +brewery, hotels, and three large freight depots for the accommodation of +the railroad business. Indians, mostly the Shoshones, of both sexes, are +frequently noticed about the town. + +The valley of the Humboldt continued to widen after leaving Elko--the +pastures and meadow lands, with occasional houses, were soon passed, and +the rider pushed on to Palisade (Nevada), his next halting-place, thirty +miles from Elko, and five hundred and seventy-six from San Francisco. +For the last two hundred miles the road had been a gradual descent, and +the change of temperature was very sensible. Palisade is a growing +little place, with a population of about four hundred souls. The town is +located about half way down a canyon, and the rocky, perpendicular walls +give it a picturesque appearance. + +Forty-one miles farther west Captain Glazier stopped again for +refreshment and rest at Argenta (Nevada), in the midst of alkali flats. +The road continued for a few miles along the base of the Reese River +Mountain, when suddenly a broad valley opened out--the valley of the +Reese River. Turning to the right he found himself at Battle Mountain +(Nevada), at the junction of the Reese River and Humboldt Valleys. The +town of Battle Mountain has several extensive stores, a public hall, an +excellent school-house and a first-class hotel, with a large and rapidly +increasing trade. Battle Mountain, about three miles south of the town, +is reputed to have been the scene of a sanguinary conflict between a +party of emigrants and a band of red-skins, who were defeated. + +Golconda (Nevada) was reached, and is four hundred and seventy-eight +miles from San Francisco. It is a small place, with three or four +stores, a hotel, and several houses. Gold Run mining district, a little +distance to the south, is tributary to the place. Having rested for the +night, Glazier mounted at sunrise and directed his course to Winnemucca +(Nevada), the county-seat of Humboldt county, with a population of +fifteen hundred, among whom are some Indians and not a few Chinamen. The +town has an elegant brick court-house, together with several stores, +hotels, shops, and a school-house. _Winnemucca_ was the name of a chief +of the Piute Indians, who was favorable to the whites at the time of the +laying out of the city. + +Humboldt (Nevada) was reached in due time--an oasis in the desert. Here +he was reminded that he was still in a land of cultivation and +civilization. The first growing trees since leaving Ogden were seen +here, with plenty of green grass and flowing fountains of pure water. +Humboldt House offered its hospitality to our traveler, and the place +and its surroundings reminded him of his home in the east. It was a +great relief from the wearisome, dreary views which had everywhere met +his gaze over the largest part of his journey since leaving Omaha. +Humboldt is the business centre of several valuable mining districts, +and has a bright prospect in the future. + +The following incident is said to have occurred in one of the Nevada +mining towns not many miles from Humboldt: + +About the year 1852 or '53, on a still, hot summer afternoon, a certain +man who shall be nameless, having tracked his two donkeys and one horse +a half mile and discovering that a man's track with spur marks followed +them, came back to town and told "the boys," who loitered about a +popular saloon, that in his opinion some Mexican had stolen the animals. +Such news as this demanded, naturally, drinks all around. + +"Do you know, gentlemen," said one who assumed leadership, "that just +naturally to shoot these greasers ain't the best way? Give 'em a fair +jury trial, and rope 'em up with all the majesty of the law. That's the +cure." + +Such words of moderation were well received, and they drank again to +"Here's hoping we may ketch that greaser!" + +As they loafed back to the veranda, a Mexican walked over the hill-brow, +jingling his spurs pleasantly in accord with a whistled waltz. + +The advocate for the law said, in an undertone, "That's the cuss!" + +A rush, a struggle, and the Mexican, bound hand and foot, lay on his +back in the bar-room. The miners turned out to a man. + +Happily, such cries as "_String him up!_" "_Burn the dog-goned +lubricator!_" and other equally pleasant phrases fell unheeded upon his +Spanish ear. A jury was quickly gathered in the street, and despite +refusals to serve, the crowd hurried them in behind the bar. + +A brief statement of the case was made by the advocate _pro tem._, and +they showed the jury into a commodious poker-room, where were seats +grouped about neat green tables. The noise outside in the bar-room +by-and-by died away into complete silence, but from afar down the canyon +came confused sounds as of disorderly cheering. They came nearer, and +again the light-hearted noise of human laughter mingled with clinking +glasses around the bar. + +A low knock at the jury door, the lock burst in, and a dozen smiling +fellows asked the verdict. The foreman promptly answered, "_Not +guilty._" + +With volleys of oaths, and ominous laying of hands on pistol hilts, the +"boys" slammed the door with--"_You'll have to do better than that!_" + +In half an hour the advocate gently opened the door again. + +"Your _opinion_, gentlemen?" + +"Guilty!" + +"Correct! you can come out. _We hung him an hour ago!_" + +The jury took their drinks, and when, after a few minutes, the pleasant +village returned to its former tranquility, it was "_allowed_" at more +than one saloon that "Mexicans'll know enough to let white men's stock +alone after this." One and another exchanged the belief that this sort +of thing was more sensible than "nipping 'em on sight." + +When, before sunset, the bar-keeper concluded to sweep some dust out of +his poker-room back-door, he felt a momentary surprise at finding the +missing horse dozing under the shadow of an oak, and the two lost +donkeys serenely masticating playing-cards, of which many bushels lay in +a dirty pile. He was then reminded that the animals had been there all +day! + +Lovelocks (Nevada) is three hundred and eighty-nine miles from San +Francisco, and its elevation above the sea-level three thousand nine +hundred and seventy-seven feet. It is simply a station, with a few +buildings connected with the Central Pacific Railroad; but is a fine +grazing region, and large herds of cattle are fattened here upon the +rich native grasses. There is quite a settlement of farmers near +Lovelocks. Before the railroad came the pasture lands were renowned +among the emigrants, who recruited their stock after the wearisome +journey across the plains. + +Leaving Lovelocks, Captain Glazier soon found himself again on the +barren desert. A side track of the railroad, named White Plains, gave +him rest for the night. The spot is surrounded by a white alkali desert, +covered in places with salt and alkali deposits. Hot Springs is another +station in the midst of the desert, and is so named from the hot springs +whose rising steam can be seen about half a mile from the station. + +Hastening forward he reached Desert (Nevada), which he found to be three +hundred and thirty-five miles from San Francisco, and that the place is +rightly named. The winds that sweep the barren plains here, heap the +sand around the scattered sage brush till they resemble huge potato +hills--a most dreary place. + +The captain found it quite a relief on reaching Wadsworth (Nevada), a +town of about five hundred souls, and three hundred and twenty-eight +miles from the end of his journey. It has several large stores, +Chinamen's houses, and hotels, in one of the latter of which he found +refreshment and a bed. His route had been for several days across +dreary, monotonous plains, with nothing but black desolation around him. +Another world now opened to his view--a world of beauty, grandeur and +sublimity. Reluctantly leaving this agreeable place, he crossed the +Truckee River, and gazed with delightful sensations upon the trees, the +green meadows, comfortable farm-houses and well-tilled fields of the +ranches, as he rode forward. + +He had now crossed the boundary line that divides Nevada from +California, and Truckee was the first place he halted at. This is a +flourishing little city of fifteen hundred inhabitants, one-third of +whom are Chinese, and is two hundred and fifty-nine miles from San +Francisco. A large number of good stores were seen here, and a +considerable trade is carried on. + +He next reached Summit (California). From this point the road descends +rapidly to the Valley of the Sacramento. + +Several intermediate places having been stopped at, in which our +traveler obtained accommodation for a night, we hasten on with him to +Sacramento, where, on November twenty-first, he found himself again +surrounded with all the appliances of civilization. Sacramento has a +population of twenty-five thousand. The broad streets are shaded by +heavy foliage. It is a city of beautiful homes. Lovely cottages are +surrounded by flowers, fruits and vines; while some of the most elegant +mansions in the State are in the midst of grassy lawns, or gardens +filled with the rarest flowers. Here is the State capitol, a building +that cost nearly $2,500,000 for its erection. Sacramento is an important +railroad centre, second only to San Francisco. + +[Illustration: Captain Glazier Riding Into The Pacific--near +The Cliff House, San Francisco.] + +Brighton was one hundred and thirty-four miles from the termination of +his ride. At the farm-houses along the road numerous wind-mills were +seen. These are used to fill reservoirs for household wants, and are +common in all the valleys and plains of California. + +A halt was made at Stockton, twenty-one miles from destination. This +city has a population of about fifteen thousand, and is only +twenty-three feet above the level of the sea. It was named to +commemorate Commodore Stockton's part in the conquest of California. + +Using all despatch, Captain Glazier pushed on to San Francisco, and +entered the city November twenty-fourth, registering at the Palace +Hotel. He immediately after rode, in company with Mr. Walter Montgomery, +and a friend, to the Cliff House, reaching it by the toll-road. This +beautiful seaside resort is built on a prominence overlooking the ocean. +Captain Glazier walked his horse into the waters of the Pacific, and +then felt that he had accomplished his task. He had ridden in the saddle +from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean--from Boston to San Francisco--a +distance of four thousand one hundred and thirty-three miles, in just +two hundred days. + +He was now no longer the slave of duty, and would rest for a few days +and see the beautiful city before he returned to the east. He wandered +about, mostly on foot, visited and inspected the numerous public +buildings, the City Park, Woodward's Gardens, etc., and became convinced +from personal observation of the greatness and magnificence of this city +on the Pacific, with its three hundred thousand inhabitants, covering a +territory of forty-two square miles, and the growth of less than thirty +years. On its eastern front San Francisco extends along the bay, whose +name it bears, bounded on the north by the Golden Gate, and on the west +washed by the Pacific Ocean along a beach five or six miles in extent. +It is not, however, a part of our plan to describe this wonderful city, +which has been done most effectively by others. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXV. + + +RETURN FROM CALIFORNIA. + + + Returns to the East by the "Iron Horse."--Boston _Transcript_ on + the journey on horseback.--Resumes literary work.--"Peculiarities + of American Cities."--Preface to book.--A domestic incident.--A + worthy son.--Claims of parents.--Purchases the old Homestead, and + presents it to his father and mother.--Letter to his parents. + +We now accompany our subject on his return journey to the east. His +family and friends had naturally felt great concern for him during his +long and perilous ride, and he was anxious therefore to allay their +fears for his safety by presenting himself before them. He accordingly +purchased a ticket and left San Francisco by rail on the twenty-eighth +of November, and after a journey more rapid and comfortable than the one +he had made on horseback, arrived in New York city on December sixth. + +Several of the eastern papers, on hearing of the captain's safe return, +furnished their readers with interesting, and, more or less, correct +accounts of the journey. We can find room only for that of the Boston +_Transcript_: + + "It will be remembered that on the ninth of May, 1876, Captain + Willard Glazier, the author of 'Battles for the Union,' and other + works of a military character, rode out of Boston with the + intention of crossing the continent on horseback. His object in + undertaking this long and tedious journey was to study at + comparative leisure the line of country which he traversed, and the + habits and condition of the people he came in contact with, the + industrious and peaceful white, and the 'noble' and belligerent + red. According to the captain's note-book, he had a closer + opportunity of studying the characteristics of the _terror_ than + the toiler of the plains. + + "Accompanied by certain members of the 'Grand Army of the + Republic,' on the morning of May ninth, as far as Brighton, he + there took leave of them, and with one companion, rode as far as + Albany, the captain lecturing by the way wherever inducement + offered, and handing over the profits to the benefit of the Widows' + and Orphans' Fund of the G. A. R. Many of these lectures were well + attended, and the receipts large, as letters of thanks from the + various 'Posts' testify. + + "From Albany Captain Glazier pursued his journey alone, and rode + the same horse through the States of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, + Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, as far as Omaha. + Thence he proceeded on whatever quadruped of the equine species he + could obtain, which was capable of shaking the dust from its feet + nimbly. That he was fortunate in this respect is proven by the fact + that he rode from Omaha to San Francisco, a distance of nineteen + hundred and eighty-eight miles in thirty days, making an average of + about sixty-seven miles per diem. The distance from Omaha to + Cheyenne, five hundred and twenty-two miles, he accomplished in six + days; the greatest distance accomplished in one day of fourteen + hours was one hundred and sixty-six miles, three mustangs being + called into requisition for the purpose. The entire time occupied + by the journey was two hundred days, the captain reaching the + Golden Gate on the twenty-fourth day of November. The actual number + of days in the saddle was one hundred and forty-four, which gives + an average of twenty-eight miles and seven-tenths per day. + + "During this strange journey of more than four thousand miles, + Captain Glazier delivered one hundred and four lectures for the + object before mentioned, and also for the benefit of the Custer + Monument Fund, and visited six hundred and forty-eight cities, + villages and stations. He tested the merits of three hundred and + thirty-three hotels, farm-houses and ranches, and made special + visits to over one hundred public institutions and places of + resort. He killed three buffaloes, eight antelopes, and twenty-two + prairie wolves, thus enjoying to the full all the pleasurable + excitement of hunting on the plains. + + "But on the thirty-first of October, while in the company of two + herders, the tables were turned, and a band of hostile Arrapahoes + suddenly disturbed the harmony of the occasion. After a lively + encounter, in which one of the Indians was despatched to the Happy + Hunting Grounds, Glazier and his companions were taken prisoners, + and one of the herders was gradually tortured to death. All that + now seemed to be required of the two survivors was patience--if + they desired to share a similar fate. But in the early morning of + the second of November, while their captors were asleep, they + contrived not only to escape, but to secure the arms which had been + taken from them; and, mounted on two mustangs belonging to the + Indians, soon placed a considerable distance between themselves and + their too confident guards. In the chase which ensued, Captain + Glazier was separated from his fellow-fugitive, and made good his + own escape by dismounting two of his pursuers, and eventually, + after a long, hard gallop, dismounting himself and hiding in a + gulch. What the fate of the herder was he had no means of + discovering. + + "Though a man of usually robust constitution, Captain Glazier felt + the transitions of climate acutely, but he experiences no ill + effects from the long journey now that it is over. The 'iron horse' + brought him back to the East of this continent in a few days, and + there are probably few men in the States who have formed a higher + opinion of the blessings of steam, than Captain Willard Glazier." + +Returned to Washington our soldier-author applied himself again to +literature, his ever active brain having been sufficiently recruited by +the comparative relaxation it had enjoyed during the long ride. One of +the fruits of his pen at this time was a volume entitled "Peculiarities +of American Cities," a subject upon which his flowing pen expatiates +with great freedom and a nice discrimination. That the reader may +perceive the bent of Glazier's mind at this period of his history, we +here present the brief and succinct preface to that work: + +"It has occurred to the author very often," he writes, "that a volume +presenting the peculiar features, favorite resorts, and distinguishing +characteristics of the leading cities of America, would prove of +interest to thousands who could, at best, see them only in imagination; +and to others who, having visited them, would like to compare notes with +one who has made their peculiarities a study for many years. + +"A residence in more than a hundred cities, including nearly all that +are introduced in this work, leads me to feel that I shall succeed in my +purpose of giving to the public a book, without the necessity of +marching in slow, and solemn procession before my readers, a monumental +array of time-honored statistics; on the contrary it will be my aim in +the following pages to talk of cities as I have seen and found them in +my walks from day to day, with but slight reference to their origin and +history." + + * * * * * + +We will bring this chapter to a close by recording one incident in the +life of its hero, which, humble and common-place as it may be deemed by +some, is one which, in the judgment of a majority of our readers we +venture to think, reflects glory upon Willard Glazier as a son, and the +nation may well feel proud that can rear many such sons. + +A subject of great domestic interest which had occupied his thoughts for +a considerable period, but to which he had, in his busy life, been +unable hitherto to give the necessary time and attention, at this time +again forcibly presented itself to his mind. Glazier's sense of a son's +duty to his parents was not of the ordinary type. He was profoundly +conscious of the moral obligation that devolved upon him, to render the +declining years of his parents as free from discomfort and anxiety as it +was within his power to do. They had nursed and trained him in infancy +and boyhood; had set before him daily the example of an upright life, +and had instilled in him a love of truth, honesty and every manly +virtue. Their claim upon him, now that he had met with a measure of +success in life, was not to be ignored, and to a good father and a good +mother he would, so far as he was able, endeavor to prove himself a good +son. + +The Old Homestead near the banks of the Oswegatchie, in St. Lawrence +County, New York, where his parents still resided; where all their +children had been born, and where many happy years had been passed, was +not the property of the Glazier family, and there was a possibility that +the "dear old folks" might in time have to remove from it. The thought +of such a contingency was painful to Willard Glazier. It was the spot of +all others around which his affections clung, and he resolved to make a +strenuous endeavor to possess himself of it, so that his father and +mother might pass their remaining days under its shelter. + +He accordingly opened negotiations with the owners of the property for +the purchase of the Homestead, and was soon rejoiced to find himself the +sole proprietor of a place endeared to him by so many associations. + +The following letter to his parents will form a fitting conclusion to +this chapter: + + + 102 Waverley Place, + New York, _May 1st, 1878_. + + My Dear Father and Mother: + + I am just in receipt of the papers which place me in possession of + the _Old Homestead_. This, I am sure, will be very pleasing news to + you, since it is my intention to make it the home of your declining + years: poor old grandmother, too, shall find it a welcome refuge + while she lives. I have never felt that I could see the home of my + birth pass to other hands; my heart still clings to it, and its + hallowed associations, with all the tenacity of former days. The + first of May will, in future, have special charms for me, for from + this day, 1878, dates my claim to that spot of earth which to me is + dearer than all others. + + Imagination often takes me back to the Old House on the Hill, where + your children spent many of the happiest hours of their childhood + and youth. In fancy I again visit the scenes of my boyhood--again + chase the butterfly, and pick the dandelion with Elvira and + Marjorie in the shade of the wide-spreading elms. + + * * * * * + + I have been working for you, dear parents, in the face of great + obstacles since the close of the war. If you think I have neglected + you--have not been home in ten long years, then I reply, I did not + wish to see you again until I could place you beyond the reach of + want. _One of the objects of my life is to-day accomplished:_ and + now, with love to all, and the fervent hope that prosperity and + happiness may wait upon you for many, many years to come, + + I remain, always, + Your most affectionate son, + Willard. + + +[Illustration: Headwaters Of The Mississippi.] + + + + +CHAPTER XXXVI. + + +THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER. + + + An interval of literary work.--Conception of another + expedition.--Reflections upon the Old Explorers.--Indian + rumors.--Determined to find the true source of the Great + River.--Starting on the eventful journey.--Joined by his brother + George and Barrett Channing Paine.--Collecting materials for the + expedition.--Brainerd the first point of departure.--Through the + Chippewa Country.--Seventy miles of government road.--Curiosity + its own reward.--Arrival at Leech Lake. + +An interval of three years, from 1878 to 1881, now elapsed in the career +of Captain Glazier; years of retirement from public attention, but by no +means of inactivity on his part. During this period he was engaged +mainly in literary work, and in preparation for a forthcoming expedition +which his ever restless brain had evolved, and which, if successful, +would furnish a valuable contribution to the geography of North America. + +The design of the expedition was no less than the discovery of the true +source of the "Father of Waters," the mighty Mississippi; and a voyage +thence, in a canoe, to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. It was a novel +and daring project. + +The idea of such an undertaking had occurred to him while on his +horseback journey across the continent; of which a brief outline has +been given the reader in previous chapters. He had come to a point in +his onward progress which is noted for its beauty, being one of the most +picturesque spots on the Mississippi, the bridge spanning the river +between Iowa and Illinois, where the rock-divided stream flows grandly +by under the shadow of towering bluffs. His own words best describe the +impression which the scene made upon him, and the consequent birth in +his brain of the most notable achievement of his life:-- + +"While crossing the continent on horseback from ocean to ocean, in 1876, +I came to a bridge which spans the Mississippi between Rock Island, +Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa. As I saw the flood of this mighty stream +rolling beneath me, I turned in imagination to its discovery in 1541. I +saw the renowned De Soto upon its banks and buried in its depths: I +accompanied Marquette from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the mouth of +the Arkansas: I followed Father Hennepin northward to St. Anthony's +Falls: and I saw the daring La Salle plant the banner of France on the +shores of the Gulf of Mexico. + +"Musing thus upon the exploits of the heroic old explorers who led the +way to this grand and peerless river of North America, I felt that it +was a subject of much regret that although its mouth was discovered by +the Chevalier La Salle nearly two hundred years ago, there was still +much uncertainty as to its true source. Within the last century several +distinguished explorers have attempted to find the primal reservoir of +the Great River. Beltrami, Nicollett, and Schoolcraft have each in turn +claimed the goal of their explorations. Numerous lakes, ponds, and +rivers have from time to time enjoyed the honor of standing at the head +of the 'Father of Waters.' Schoolcraft, finally, in 1832, decided upon +a lake, which he named Itasca, as the fountain-head, and succeeded in +securing for it the recognition of geographers and map-makers. + +"Notwithstanding the fact, however, that the claim for geographical +honors was very generally accorded to Schoolcraft's lake, as being the +source of the Mississippi, I had frequently been told that many Indians +denied that their ideal river began its course in Lake Itasca, and +asserted that there were other lakes and rivers above and beyond that +lake, unknown to the white man, and that in them was to be found the +original starting forth of the mysterious stream. These reflections led +me to conclude that there was yet a rich field for exploration in the +wilds of Minnesota." + +Thus it was that Captain Glazier determined upon a search for this great +unknown of waters. The time, however, was not yet ripe for the +fulfilment of his purpose. There was promised work to be done, duties to +the public waiting to be fulfilled, various literary responsibilities +accumulated from the past which must be met, the projected undertaking +itself to be specially prepared for;--all this to be done before he +could finally turn his face towards his new purpose. + +The intervening period was therefore occupied in carefully revising his +literary productions. Several of his books, written hastily at the close +of the war, had been published in rapid succession in a somewhat +incomplete form, and the constantly increasing demand for their +subsequent editions brought a public pressure to bear upon him for their +needed revision which could not well be resisted. + +He had also other forthcoming works on his hands, which he was anxious +should be put into form before he again launched himself upon the sea +of uncertain ventures. In order to collect additional material for his +book upon the "Peculiarities of American Cities" it was necessary that +he should make an extensive traveling tour; consequently, a considerable +portion of this time was spent in visiting the leading cities of the +United States and Canada. Adding to all this the necessary preparatory +labor attending his contemplated voyage in search of the true source of +the Mississippi, and it will be seen that the years elapsing between his +journey from ocean to ocean and his latest expedition were actively and +well employed. + +At length, however, all his tasks were accomplished, and the month of +May, 1881, found him stopping for a few days at Cleveland, Ohio, in his +journey westward from New York. Leaving Cleveland on the first day of +June, he proceeded to Chicago, and without further tarrying went from +that city directly to St. Paul, Minnesota, intending to make this the +first point for gathering his forces and collecting the material needed +for his coming exploration. Here he was joined by his brother George and +Barrett Channing Paine, of Indianapolis, Indiana. The month of June was +spent at St. Paul in collecting tents, blankets, guns, ammunition, +fishing tackle and all the various paraphernalia necessary for a six +weeks' sojourn in the northern wilderness. + +Finally, all arrangements being completed, the party left St. Paul on +the morning of July the fourth, to go to Brainerd, about a hundred miles +above St. Paul, which was to be the point of immediate departure for +Leech Lake and thence to Lake Itasca. Brief stoppages were made at +Minneapolis, Monticello, St. Cloud and Little Falls on their way up the +river, until Brainerd was reached July the seventh. + +Brainerd is an enterprising little village at the point where the +Northern Pacific Railroad crosses the Mississippi, near the boundary of +the Chippewa Indian Reservation, and is the nearest point, of any +consequence, to Lake Itasca. Here Captain Glazier stopped for some days +that he might further inform himself upon the topography of the country, +in order to decide on the most feasible route to his destination, and +also to provide such supplies of food as were necessary. After +consulting maps it was concluded that although Schoolcraft and others +had found Itasca by going up the river through Lakes Winnibegoshish, +Cass and Bemidji, the most direct course would be by way of Leech Lake +and the Kabekanka River. It was therefore decided to take wagon +conveyance to Leech Lake over what is known in Northern Minnesota as the +Government Road. This road stretches for seventy miles through trackless +pine forests and almost impenetrable underbrush, the only habitations to +be seen along its line being the half-way houses erected for the +accommodation of teamsters, who are engaged in hauling government +supplies, and the occasional wigwams of wandering Indians. It was opened +in 1856, by James Macaboy, for the convenience of Indian agents and the +fur trade. + +At length, at eight o'clock on the bright, summer morning of Tuesday, +July the twelfth, Captain Glazier and his companions, fully equipped, +and with a driver celebrated for his knowledge of frontier life, began +their long and toilsome wagon journey. A ride of between three and four +hours brought them to Gull Lake, where a halt was proposed and made for +rest and refreshment. + +This lake was for many years the home and headquarters of the noted +Chippewa chief, Hole-in-the-day, and has been the scene of many +sanguinary struggles between his braves and those of the equally noted +Sioux chief, Little Crow. The ruins of a block-house, remains of +wigwams, and a few scattered graves are all that is now left to tell the +story of its aboriginal conflicts. A family of four persons living in a +log-house form the white population of the place. Reuben Gray, the +genial patriarch who presides over this solitary household in the +wilderness, delights in the title of landlord, and his hotel (by +courtesy) has become somewhat famous as one of the pioneer half-way +houses between Brainerd and Leech Lake. + +After resting for a while and doing ample justice to the appetizing +dinner which was set before them, our travelers resumed their journey. +Pine River was their evening destination, and at five o'clock they +reached the ranche of George Barclay, the only white habitation to be +found between their last resting-place and Leech Lake. Here they were +most agreeably surprised to find very good accommodation for both man +and beast. + +An excellent breakfast the next morning, with the fair prospect of +reaching by evening the first terminal point of their journey, put the +travelers in exuberant spirits for the day, and nothing but jolting over +one of the roughest roads ever encountered by them could have lessened +their enjoyment of the occasion. A short stop was made for luncheon at +Fourteen Mile Lake, and this being their first meal in the open air they +were enabled, together with the experience thus far gained in their +journeying, to gauge more accurately their supply of rations. It was +readily discovered that they would need at least a third more +provisions for their expedition than would be required for the ordinary +occupations of in-door life; and it was at once decided to provide an +additional supply of bacon and dried meats before leaving Leech Lake. + +After luncheon the Captain's brother and Mr. Paine took a bath in the +lake, while he himself found amusement in duck-shooting and in chatting +with some straggling Chippewas, who were about launching their canoes +for a six weeks' hunting and fishing excursion. It happened that Captain +Glazier had never before seen birch bark canoes, and they were therefore +regarded by him with considerable interest, their use in the future +being indispensable to the success of his undertaking. Now the Captain +possesses, in common with most men of adventurous spirit, a +characteristic desire to get at the bottom facts of everything, and this +curiosity here caused him a laughable mishap; for, the better to examine +it, he stepped into one of the canoes, when, from want of experience in +balancing himself in so light a vessel, he was precipitated into the +lake, much to his own discomfort but greatly to the amusement of the +spectators. + +Firmly resolved upon more caution in the future, the Captain and his +companions pursued their journey towards Leech Lake, which was reached +at four o'clock in the afternoon. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXVII. + + +HOME OF THE CHIPPEWAS. + + + An embryonic red man.--A primitive hotel.--An unkempt inhabitant of + the forest.--Leech Lake.--Major Ruffe's arrival.--White + Cloud.--Paul Beaulieu and his theory about the source of the + Mississippi.--Che-no-wa-ge-sic.--Studying Indian manners and + customs.--Dining with Indian royalty.--Chippewa hospitality.--How + the wife of an Indian Chief entertains.--Souvenir of Flat + Mouth.--Return of Che-no-wa-ge-sic.--A council held.--An Indian + speech.--"No White Man has yet seen the head of the Father of + Waters."--Voyage of exploration.--Launching the canoes. + +Upon the arrival of the travelers at Leech Lake their first glimpse of +the embryonic red man was a little fellow of about six years, who ran +out of a wigwam, brandishing a bow in one hand, and carrying arrows in +the other. He was very far from being warlike, however, for with the +first glance at his white brothers he suddenly disappeared in the +bushes. A little further on they came to a log-cabin, over the door of +which was nailed a primitive pine board, bearing the inscription--"Hotel." + +Here they were received by a rough-looking man with long hair and +unkempt beard, wearing, besides one other garment, a pair of pants made +from a red blanket. The surroundings were certainly not inviting, and a +closer inspection of the squalid accommodation did not lead them to form +any more favorable opinion. However, travelers cannot always be +choosers, and they really fared much better than they had expected, +dining very agreeably on fresh fish and vegetables; breakfast the next +morning being selected from the same simple bill of fare, varied only by +the addition of "flap-jacks." In default of habitable beds their +hammocks were swung from the rafters of the loft. + +Leech Lake is one of the most irregularly shaped bodies of water that +can be imagined. It has no well-defined form, being neither oval nor +circular, but rather a combination of curves and varied outlines made by +peninsulas and bays, of which only a map could convey any accurate idea. +Ten islands are found upon its surface, and seven rivers and creeks +enter it from various directions. It extends not less than twenty miles +from North to South, and a still greater distance from East to West, +with a coast line of over four hundred miles. It was for many years the +seat of the Chippewa Indian Agency, but is now consolidated with the +White Earth and Red Lake agencies. Major C. A. Ruffe is at present agent +of the three departments, with headquarters at White Earth. The village +consists of some half dozen government buildings, as many log-cabins, +and about twenty or thirty wigwams scattered here and there along the +shore of one of the arms of the lake. + +The day after the arrival of Captain Glazier's party, the agency was +thrown into a state of excitement by the announcement that Major Ruffe +was on his way to Lake Winnibegoshish by way of Leech Lake. The Major +came the next day, accompanied by Captain Taylor of St. Cloud, one of +the pioneer surveyors of Minnesota; Paul Beaulieu, the veteran +government interpreter, and White Cloud, the present chief of the +Mississippi Indians, who succeeded Hole-in-the-day, the latter having +been killed some time before by one of the Leech Lake band. + +Paul Beaulieu, the half-breed interpreter to Major Ruffe, possesses a +fund of information concerning the Upper Mississippi which cannot be +ignored by those who are in pursuit of its mysterious source, and +Captain Glazier considered himself most fortunate in meeting him before +his departure for Lake Itasca. Beaulieu deserves more than a passing +mention, as he is a man of wide experience, and is well known throughout +Minnesota, and, in some circles, throughout the country. He was born at +Mackinaw, while General Sibley was stationed there in the interest of +the American Fur Company, of which John Jacob Astor was then the head. +His father was a Frenchman and his mother an Indian. He received an +English education, partly in the government school of Mackinaw, and +partly at Montreal. On leaving school he was employed by the Fur +Company, and sent all over the United States from the St. Lawrence to +Lower California. He crossed the continent with the Stevens party on the +first Northern Pacific survey, and rendered such valuable services that +he was presented with a testimonial in recognition of his efficiency. + +Beaulieu had a theory of his own regarding the source of the +Mississippi, based upon the stories of the Chippewas and other Indians +of his acquaintance. In conversation with Captain Glazier upon the +subject he said that to the west of Lake Itasca there was another lake, +the outlet of which united with the stream from the former, and which +contributed a much larger volume of water at its junction with the +Mississippi than the outlet of Lake Itasca. He therefore assumed that +this nameless and almost unknown lake was the true source of the +Mississippi. + +In corroboration of the Beaulieu theory Major Ruffe said that he had +heard the same opinion expressed by a number of old and reliable Indian +voyagers. It will thus be seen that there was a great diversity of +sentiment among the most trustworthy authorities as to the actual source +of the Great River. + +Captain Glazier was greatly exercised on finding that his arrival at +Leech Lake was at a season when the local band of Indians, the +Pillagers, as they are called, were away upon their annual hunting and +fishing excursion. Their absence from the agency was a serious obstacle +in the way of immediate further progress, for the reason that, being +compelled to take the final step in their expedition to the source of +the Mississippi from this point, it was important that they should +complete their equipment by securing an interpreter, reliable guides and +birch bark canoes. + +"Find Rev. Edwin Benedict as soon as you reach Leech Lake" was the last +injunction Captain Glazier received on leaving Brainerd. Mr. Benedict is +Post Missionary, and one of the five representatives of the Episcopal +Church on the Chippewa Reservation, holding his commission from Bishop +Whipple of Minnesota. With this genial gentleman, Captain Glazier spent +the greater part of his time while waiting at the Agency, when not +engaged in preparations for the voyage. The courtesy of a semi-civilized +bed, and the convenience of a table, with pens, ink and paper, were +luxuries to be appreciated and not readily forgotten. + +Conversations with Mr. Benedict and with Flat Mouth, chief of the +Chippewas, developed the unexpected fact that there was but one Indian +in the Chippewa country who had actually traversed the region which the +Captain and his party were about to explore, and that he was then +visiting some friends near Lake Winnibegoshish, and was not expected to +return until the following Saturday, some three days off. + +Satisfied that Che-no-wa-ge-sic, the Chippewa brave referred to, would +prove indispensable to the success of his expedition, Captain Glazier +decided to await his return to the Agency. While thus detained the +Captain and his friends found themselves indebted to Major Ruffe for his +untiring efforts to relieve the monotony of their sojourn, and to render +their condition as agreeable as possible while within his sovereign +borders. + +As an important part of Captain Glazier's purpose in his Mississippi +expedition was to study the manners and customs of the people in the +several portions of the country along its banks, he took advantage of +his present detention to inquire into the habits and traits of the +Indians with whom he now came in daily contact. Some extracts from his +private diary, graphically portraying the characteristics which +impressed him, are here especially interesting, as evidence of a certain +power of philosophic reflection and inductive reasoning unusual in the +mind of one so given to the excitement of an active, enterprising life +as was Captain Glazier, who as soldier, author, and explorer certainly +allowed himself little rest for the quiet abstractions of the student. + +"Through conversations with Major Ruffe I learned much of the pioneer +history of the post, and the attempts to civilize the Pillagers, as the +Leech Lake Indians are named. This band appears to have separated from +the other Chippewas at an early day, and to have taken upon themselves +the duty of defending this portion of the Chippewa frontier. They +'passed armed before their brethren' in their march westward. Their +geographical position was one which required them to assume great +responsibilities, and in the defence of their chosen frontier they have +distinguished themselves as brave and active warriors. Many acts of +intrepidity are related of them which would be recorded with admiration +had white men been the actors. Perfectly versed in the arts of the +forest they have gained many victories over that powerful assemblage of +tribes known as the Sioux. With fewer numbers the Chippewas have never +hesitated to fall upon their enemies, and have defeated and routed them +with a valor and resolution which in any period of written warfare would +have been stamped as heroic. + +"It is not easy on the part of the government to repress the feelings of +hostility which have so long existed between the respective tribes, and +to convince them that they have lived into an age when milder maxims +furnish the basis of wise action.... + +"The domestic manners and habits of a people whose position is so +adverse to improvement could hardly be expected to present anything +strikingly different from other erratic bands of the Northwest. There is +indeed a remarkable conformity in the external habits of all our +Northern Indians. The necessity of changing their camps often to procure +game or fish, the want of domestic animals, the general dependence on +wild rice, and the custom of journeying in canoes has produced a general +uniformity of life, and it is emphatically a life of want and +vicissitude. There is a perpetual change between action and inanity in +the mind which is a striking peculiarity of the savage state, and there +is such a general want of forecast that most of their misfortunes and +hardships, in war and peace, come unexpectedly."... + +Our explorers were agreeably surprised one day during their stay at +Leech Lake by an invitation from Flat Mouth, the present ruler of the +Pillagers, to take dinner with him. Captain Glazier accepted the +invitation with pleasure, for it so happened that although he had for +many years been much among the natives of the forest he had never before +had an opportunity to dine with Indian royalty. + +Flat Mouth is a descendant of Aish-ki-bug-e-koszh, the most famous of +all the Chippewa chiefs. He is stalwart in appearance and endowed with +marked talents, and well deserves the title of "chief." At the appointed +time for the dinner, Captain Glazier, accompanied by his brother and Mr. +Paine, went to his residence. They found him living in a comfortable +log-house of two rooms, well floored and roofed, with two small glass +windows. A plain board table stood in the centre of the front room, upon +which the dinner was served. Pine board benches were placed upon each +side of the table and at the ends, and they followed the example of the +host in sitting down. Five other persons were admitted to the meal, the +wife of Flat Mouth, White Cloud, chief of the Mississippis, and three +Chippewa sub-chiefs. The wife of Flat Mouth sat near him and poured out +the tea, but ate or drank nothing herself. Tea-cups, spoons, plates, +knives and forks, all of plain manufacture, were carefully arranged, the +number corresponding with the guests. A fine mess of bass and white fish +cut up and very palatably broiled filled a dish in the centre of the +table, from which the host helped his guests. Birch bark salt cellars +containing pepper and salt mixed allowed each one to season his fish +with both or neither. A dish of blue berries picked on the shore of the +lake completed the repast. + +While they were eating, the room became filled with Indians, apparently +the relatives and friends of Flat Mouth, and after the dinner was over, +speech-making being in order, White Cloud arose, and, assuming an +oratorical attitude, addressed Captain Glazier: + +He expressed regret that white men had so long been in ignorance of the +source of the Mississippi, and said that although he had not himself +seen the head of the Great River, there were many braves of his tribe +who were familiar with its location. He hoped that his white brother had +come thoroughly prepared to explore the country beyond Lake Itasca, and +that he would not return to his friends until he had found the true +source of the "Father of Waters." Continuing he said: "I am told that +Che-no-wa-ge-sic, the Chippewa warrior, will accompany you. He is a +great hunter and a faithful guide. He can supply you with game and +paddle your canoe. The Chippewas are your friends, and will give you +shelter in their wigwams." + +After he had finished, Flat Mouth presented Captain Glazier with a +beautifully beaded pipe and tobacco pouch, the work of his favorite +squaw, and expressed an earnest hope for the complete success of the +expedition. Although Captain Glazier needed nothing to keep the memory +of this novel dinner fresh in his mind, he will always treasure this +souvenir of Flat Mouth among the many pleasant mementos of his visit to +Leech Lake. + +Here again, in referring to this dinner and those whom he met there, +Captain Glazier's diary furnishes one of his vivid pen-pictures in an +admirably conceived criticism upon the mental attributes and general +character of the distinguished Indian chief, White Cloud, the orator of +the feast. + +"I was much gratified on this occasion by the presence of White Cloud, +whom I had been told was the most respectable man in the Chippewa +country; and if the term were applied to his intellectual qualities and +the power of drawing just conclusions from known premises, and the +effects which these have had on his standing and influence with his own +tribe, it is not misapplied. Shrewdness and quickness of perception most +of the chiefs possess, but there is more of the character of common +sense and practical reflection in White Cloud's remarks than I have +observed in most of the chiefs I have hitherto met. In his early life he +was both a warrior and a counselor, and these distinctions he held, not +from any hereditary right, but from the force of his own character. I +found him quite ready to converse upon those topics which were of most +interest to him, and the sentiments he expressed were such as would +occur to a mind which had possessed itself of facts and was capable of +reasoning from them. His manners were grave and dignified, and his +oratory such as to render him popular wherever heard." + +Upon the return of Chenowagesic and other Indians, a council was held +and Captain Glazier stated his object to them. They were asked to +provide maps of the country and to furnish an interpreter, guides and +canoes. Of course, it was impossible to conclude any such important +negotiations as attended an expedition involving the veritable source of +the noble red man's mystical stream without the characteristic Indian +speech. Accordingly, Chenowagesic arose, and with much dignity, +extending his arm towards Captain Glazier, said: + +"My brother, the country you are going to visit is my hunting ground. I +have hunted there many years and planted corn on the shores of Lake +Itasca. My father, now an old man, remembers the first white chief who +came to look for the source of the Great River. But, my brother, no +white man has yet seen the head of the 'Father of Waters.' I will myself +furnish the maps you have requested, and will guide you onward. There +are many lakes and rivers in the way, but the waters are favorable. I +shall talk with my friends about the canoes, and see who will step +forward to supply them. My own canoe shall be one of the number." + +But a few hours were required to complete the maps, and on the following +morning, three Chippewas, including Chenowagesic, brought each a canoe +and laid it down on the shore of the lake. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXVIII. + + +EXPLORATION AND DISCOVERY. + + + Launching the canoes.--Flat Mouth and White Cloud again.--An + inspiring scene.--Farewell to Leech Lake.--Up the Kabekanka + River.--Dinner at Lake Benedict.--Difficult navigation.--A + peaceful haven.--Supper and contentment.--Lake Garfield.-- + Preparations for first portage.--Utter exhaustion.--Encampment + for the night.--The cavalry column.--Lake George and Lake + Paine.--The Naiwa River.--Six miles from Itasca.--Camping on + the Minnesota watershed.--A startling discovery.--Rations + giving out.--Ammunition gone.--Arrival at Lake Itasca. + +The following day, July seventeenth, was Sunday, and Captain Glazier, +being a guest of Rev. Edwin Benedict, felt some delicacy in commencing +his journey on the Sabbath. Mr. Benedict, however, greatly to his +relief, not only decided that there could be nothing objectionable in +his doing so, but also offered to launch his canoe and bid him +God-speed. In fact, Mr. Benedict had done all in his power to alleviate +the discomfort of his stay, by placing at his service the only +"civilized" bed the village possessed, but now Bishop Whipple was hourly +expected to arrive in the course of his regular visitations to the +missionary posts he had established, and the Captain was not inclined to +monopolize a luxury which doubtless the Bishop would appreciate as much +as himself. Accordingly, early in the morning, which proved to be clear +and beautiful, the explorers met on the shore of the lake, preparatory +to their embarkation. A large number of Indians had assembled to see +them off. Flat Mouth was there, watching his white brothers with +interest as they stepped cautiously into the canoes, for Captain Glazier +had not forgotten his first experience with one of these light vessels. +White Cloud, also, was there, chief of the Mississippis, thinking, +mayhap, somewhat sadly of the time when the great "Father of Waters" was +known only to the Red Man who hunted on its banks, or glided swiftly +down its stream, in happy ignorance of the days when city after city +should line its shores, and steamboats force their devious way through +its waters. There, too, were the friends and relatives of Chenowagesic +and the other guides, watching with characteristic gravity the final +preparations. Rev. Mr. Benedict, the only white man on the beach other +than the explorers, stood ready to launch the canoe. + +[Illustration: Captain Glazier Embarking For The Headwaters +Of The Mississippi.] + +It was a scene well worthy the painter's most cunning skill--the +beautiful lake, the wigwams dotting its shores here and there, the dark +green of the forest in the background, the Indians with their bright red +blankets adding bits of vivid coloring to the scene, and, at the water's +edge, Captain Glazier, upright and soldierly in bearing, ready to step +into his canoe and start forth in search of the mysterious springs which +had hitherto baffled the investigations of all previous explorers. + +Finally, all was ready, the baggage being evenly distributed in the +three canoes with an Indian in each to guide and paddle it. Standing in +the foremost canoe Captain Glazier signified his readiness to start, +when Mr. Benedict pushed the light bark into the water, and waved his +hat in token of farewell. A general waving of hats followed, and soon +our explorers found themselves gliding swiftly over the bosom of the +lake, and almost out of sight of the friends who still watched them from +the shore. + +After an hour's paddling they reached the other side of the arm of the +lake on which the Agency is situated, and prepared for a short portage +across a point of land which brought them to a larger arm, where the +wind and the waves had a sweep of fifteen or twenty miles. Coasting +along the shore for some distance they finally paddled across the lake +to the mouth of the Kabekanka River. A brisk wind was blowing from the +north, and the waves ran so high as to cause some anxiety in the minds +of those who were not accustomed to the motion of a canoe; for, now they +rose lightly to the top of the wave and anon sank with a swash into the +trough, splashing and dashing the water over their bows. Gradually, +however, as they became more used to their frail barks, their anxiety +lessened, and they began to enjoy the beautiful prospect before them, +and to inhale with delight the invigorating breeze. + +After two or three hours steady work they reached the inlet into which +this branch of the Kabekanka empties. So choked up is this inlet with +reeds and rushes that it required some skill to force an entrance for +the canoes. Finally they succeeded, and paddling up the river they came, +at about eleven o'clock, to a little lake caused by the widening of the +stream, which Captain Glazier named Lake Benedict, in honor of Rev. +Edwin Benedict, who had treated him so courteously during his stay at +Leech Lake. Reaching the upper end of this lake they disembarked and +prepared to enjoy their noon-day meal. + +A brief rest, in order the better to digest their hearty dinner, +refreshed the travelers so much that they soon re-embarked and pursued +their voyage. Leaving the lake they entered another branch of the +Kabekanka, and found that at its mouth the stream ran between low +shores, and that its bed was so overgrown with wild rice as to make it +almost impossible for a canoe to work its way through. Further up the +river narrowed and ran more swiftly, the wild rice giving place to snags +and driftwood, which made navigation even more toilsome. Almost worn +out, our weary voyagers began to despair of finding navigable waters, +when to their great joy they espied at a little distance what seemed +like a pond filled with rushes. Struggling onward once more they soon +reached the spot, and found what they supposed to be a pond was the +outlet of a beautiful lake about seven miles long and three broad, into +whose quiet waters they glided with glad hearts and a shout of delight. + +It was now late in the afternoon, and time to look about for a +camping-ground, on which to spend the night. Paddling slowly up the +lake, trolling for fish as they went, they soon found a spot which +answered their purpose admirably. It was a bluff near the lake, wooded +with Norway pines, and sloping rather abruptly towards the water. By +this time they had caught half a dozen fine pickerel, and, disembarking, +soon had their fire built, tents pitched and hammocks swung. The guides +prepared supper of broiled fish, accompanied by such canned dainties as +had been brought with them and their keen appetites caused by the fresh +breeze and toilsome paddling prepared them to enjoy with zest their +first supper in the open air. + +Supper being over they whiled away the time very pleasantly by +commenting upon the experiences of the day, and discussing the object of +their undertaking, and so free were they from all discomfort, even from +that caused by those torments, the mosquitoes, they felt ready to +declare the hardships of their journey had been much magnified. In this +peaceful and contented frame of mind they retired to their tents and +slept soundly until next morning. + +Rising at break of day they were soon on the water making their way to +the head of the lake, where they breakfasted, and upon learning that no +name had ever been given to this beautiful body of water, Captain +Glazier designated it Lake Garfield, in honor of our murdered President. + +[Illustration: Camp Among The Pines.] + +After breakfast they were informed by the guides that they had now come +to the end of uninterrupted water communication, and must prepare for a +portage of two and a half miles. Little did any of the white members of +the party guess what this meant, and so with light hearts they packed +their traps into convenient bundles and prepared to take up the line of +march. The Indians, in the meanwhile, had made for themselves packs +weighing about a hundred pounds. These packs they wrapped in blankets +and secured with a strap which passed over their foreheads, the packs +resting on their shoulders. Each then placed a canoe, bottom upwards, on +top of his pack, holding it there by means of a cross bar. + +All were now ready, and the order, "March," was given. Off started the +Indians in single file with as much apparent ease as if they were +taking a pleasure walk along a well-beaten path instead of plunging, +heavily laden, into the recesses of a trackless forest. Captain Glazier, +his brother and Mr. Paine followed their lead, guided only by the white +bottoms of the canoes gleaming through the dense foliage. It was almost +impossible to keep up with the Indians, whose steady trot at times +increased to a run, and in their efforts to do so they barked their +shins, scratched their hands and faces, tore their clothes, and were +almost devoured by the mosquitoes. On they went, however, determined not +to be beaten by the red man, who showed no sign of fatigue or stopping. +Finally, in spite of their determination to the contrary, they felt +absolutely compelled to cry "halt," when lo! the Indians halted, removed +their packs, and, smiling back at them, no doubt in appreciation of +their discomfort, calmly began to pick the blue berries which grew in +abundance all along the route. With a sigh of relief, the rest of the +party threw themselves full length upon the ground, utterly and +completely exhausted, and fairly groaned aloud when they saw the Indians +were about to resume their packs. There was no help for it, however, so +starting up they prepared to follow, but at a somewhat slower pace. For +several hours they continued their fatiguing journey, until, at eleven +o'clock, reaching a high, clear piece of ground, they decided to rest +and have dinner. + +After dinner they found they were far too weary to proceed, so the +Indians, who were apparently as fresh as when they first started, made +two trips to the next lake, carrying everything. On their last trip they +were accompanied by their exhausted white brethren, who succeeded at +last in summoning up sufficient resolution to carry themselves. + +Embarking once more in their canoes they pulled through three small +lakes connected by creeks, finally camping for the night on the shore of +a fourth lake. The next morning they were up bright and early and ready +to resume their voyage, which for this day was through a chain of lakes +sometimes connected by small creeks, but more frequently requiring them +to make a portage from one to the other. Gabekanazeba, meaning +"portage," is the Indian name applied to these lakes and the stream +which connects some of them; but Captain Glazier, assuming the right +tacitly yielded to all explorers, called them in order after the brave +cavalry commanders of the Rebellion. Bayard, Stoneman, Pleasanton, +Custer, Kilpatrick, Gregg, Buford and Davies, form the column, with +Sheridan, as the name of the largest and finest, at its head. + +Finally, they reached a lake of considerable size whose Indian name, +translated, means Blue Snake. This they crossed at a point where its +width is about five miles, catching a number of fine bass as they went, +and camped for the night on a strip of land between it and a second lake +about half its size. These two bodies of water were respectively +denominated by Captain Glazier Lake George and Lake Paine, after his +brother George and Mr. Barrett Channing Paine, who accompanied him +throughout his entire voyage, sharing his dangers and rejoicing in his +ultimate success. + +Upon resuming their journey next morning, July twentieth, the canoes +were paddled across a corner of Lake Paine, and, after a portage of half +a mile, they entered a small river, called by the Indians Naiwa. This +river they descended for about five miles, and after making another +short portage, reached a little stream, upon the shore of which they +rested for dinner. Resuming their voyage they arrived at a beautiful +lake late in the afternoon, upon which Captain Glazier bestowed the name +of Elvira, in memory of his eldest sister. + +Here the Indians informed them that they were only six miles from +Itasca, but the joy with which they received the good news was somewhat +checked when they heard that the whole distance, with the exception of +one small lake, must be made by portage. However, they had a night's +rest before them, so taking the canoes out of the water, they were +carried to the top of the nearest ridge of land, where the tents were +pitched for the night. + +Their camp was now situated on one of a series of diluvial ridges which +forms the highest ground between the Allegheny and Rocky Mountains. It +is, in fact, the watershed separating the Mississippi, Red River of the +North and St. Lawrence River systems, all these great streams having +their origin in springs or lakes found within this section of Minnesota. + +While camping here a discovery was made which caused the party much +uneasiness. This was the startling fact that their supply of canned +meats and other rations was fast giving out! To appreciate their +situation under these circumstances we must remember that they were far +from any trading post, and in a country where they could not hope to +find even an Indian at that season of the year, the many lakes and +marshy ground making hunting impracticable. To add to their dismay, it +was also discovered that during one of the exhausting portages the +trolling hooks had been lost in passing through a bog, while their +ammunition was reduced to sixty-five rounds. Too late did the Captain +regret the permission given to his brother and Mr. Paine, both of whom +were but amateur sportsmen, to fire at any game they might see. They had +blazed away recklessly during the entire voyage, so far succeeding in +killing but one duck. Evidently _they_ could not be depended upon to +replenish the depleted larder. Something had to be done, and after +resolutions of strict economy were proposed and unanimously adopted, it +was decided that hereafter the Captain should occupy the bow of the +first canoe, and, with gun cocked, be ready to fire at any game which a +sudden turn in the river might discover. How the explorers wished they +could subsist on the blue berries which were fully as abundant as the +mosquitoes along the entire route! But it required incessant eating of +these to satisfy the appetite, and even then, hunger, in a short time, +asserted its former sway. + +The morning following this discovery was so foggy that it was impossible +to make a start before seven o'clock. The day was warm, and the journey +unusually fatiguing, consisting mainly of a portage twice the length of +the first one they had encountered. It was, therefore, with unfeigned +delight that, late in the afternoon of the twenty-first of July, they +discovered the placid waters of Itasca just ahead of them. Launching +their canoes, they soon reached Schoolcraft Island, after a pull of +about two miles, and prepared to make this point their headquarters. + +[Illustration: Making A Portage.] + +Lake Itasca was discovered by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft in 1832, and was +located by him as the source of the Mississippi. It is a beautiful body +of water, with an extreme length of about five miles, and an average +breadth of a mile and a half. It has three arms of nearly equal size, +and the island, named after the discoverer of the lake, is situated near +the point where they come together. This island proved to be about three +acres in extent, and is so covered with underbrush that our gallant +little party had much difficulty in clearing a sufficient space for +their camp. Only one or two trees of any size were found, and on the +largest of these, a pine, Mr. Paine carved their names and the date of +their arrival. + +By this time Captain Glazier had become more than ever convinced, +through conversations with Chenowagesic, that he was right in his +preconceived opinion that Itasca was not the source of the Mississippi. +He was also satisfied that Chenowagesic was pre-eminently fitted to aid +him in discovering the fountain head, owing to the fact that he was +thoroughly at home in that region, having hunted and trapped there for +many years. So intense had become the Captain's desire not to return +until he had thoroughly explored Itasca and the surrounding country, +that it was with an anxious heart he now put the question to his +companions: would they be willing, on such a limited supply of rations +as they had remaining, to assist him in his explorations, or would they +vote for an immediate descent of the river? To his great relief he found +he had so completely inoculated them, or at least his brother and Mr. +Paine, with his own ambition that with one voice they decided in favor +of a thorough exploration. The Indians were soon persuaded to give +their consent, and so, before retiring for the night, the entire party +expressed their determination to stand by the Captain until he was +satisfied that every effort had been made to discover the remotest +springs in which the Great River really had its origin. + +[Illustration: Map Of Lake Glazier] + + + + +CHAPTER XXXIX. + + +DISCOVERY OF THE SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI. + + + Short rations.--Empty haversacks and depleted + cartridge-boxes.--Statement of Chenowagesic.--Captain Glazier's + diary.--Vivid description.--Coasting Itasca.--Chenowagesic + puzzled.--The barrier overcome.--Victory! the Infant + Mississippi.--Enthusiastic desire to see the source.--The goal + reached.--A beautiful lake.--The fountain head.--An American the + first white man to stand by its side.--Schoolcraft.--How he came + to miss the lake.--Appropriate ceremonies.--Captain Glazier's + speech.--Naming the lake.--Chenowagesic.--Military + honors.--"Three cheers for the explorer." + +Captain Glazier had instructed his Indian guides to wake him early the +following morning, July twenty-second; but when he himself awoke at six +o'clock he found the remainder of the party still sound asleep, the +toilsome portages of the preceding day having completely exhausted them. +Rousing his companions, preparations were begun for breakfast, which +consisted of a small piece of bacon and one "flap-jack" each. But the +determination of the previous night had so inspirited all that the small +dimensions of the breakfast were scarcely noticed, and the conversation +turned upon the absorbing topic--would they discover a source of the +Mississippi other than Lake Itasca? + +Chenowagesic again repeated his statement that there was another lake to +the south, which he called Pokegama, meaning, "a lake on the side of or +beyond another lake." This lake, he said, was smaller than Itasca, but +contributed to the latter through its largest inflowing stream. Captain +Glazier, therefore, instructed him to guide them to this lake and allow +them to make their own observations regarding it. Accordingly, breakfast +being over, the canoes were launched and the coasting of Itasca begun. + +Captain Glazier's own account of the events succeeding this breakfast on +Schoolcraft Island is so clear, and his description brings so vivid a +picture before the eye of the reader, that it is only necessary to quote +the following passages from his diary for the reader to understand the +importance of the discovery which he made: + +"Notwithstanding the fact that we were now confronted with empty +haversacks and depleted cartridge boxes my companions were still eager +to follow my lead in the work of exploration beyond Itasca, which from +the beginning had been the controlling incentive of our expedition, the +grand objective towards which we bent all our energies. To stand at the +_source_; to look upon the remotest rills and springs which contribute +to the birth of the Great River of North America, to write 'Finis' in +the volume opened by the renowned De Soto more than three hundred years +ago, and in which Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, La Hontan, Carver, +Pike, Beltrami, Schoolcraft and Nicollet have successively inscribed +their names, were quite enough to revive the drooping spirits of the +most depressed. + +"During our encampment on the island Chenowagesic again reminded me that +he had planted corn there many years before, and that his wigwam once +stood near the spot where we had pitched our tents. He also repeated +what he had told me before launching the canoes at Leech Lake that the +region about Lake Itasca was his hunting-ground, and that he was +thoroughly acquainted with all the rivers, lakes and ponds within a +hundred miles. He further said that Paul Beaulieu was in error +concerning the source of the Great River, and led me to conclude that +the primal reservoir was above and beyond Itasca, and that this lake was +simply an expansion of the Mississippi, as are Bemidji, Cass, +Winnibegoshish and several others. + +"Fully convinced that the statements of Chenowagesic were entirely +trustworthy, and knowing from past experience that he was perfectly +reliable as a guide, we put our canoes into the water at eight o'clock, +and at once began the work of coasting Itasca for its feeders. We found +the outlets of six small streams, two having well-defined mouths, and +four filtering into the lake through bogs. The upper end of the +southwestern arm is heavily margined with rushes and swamp grass, and it +was not without considerable difficulty that we forced our way through +this natural barrier into the larger of the two open streams which flow +into this end of the lake. + +"Although perfectly familiar with the topography of the country, and +entirely confident that he could lead us to the beautiful lake which he +had so often described, Chenowagesic was for some moments greatly +disturbed by the network of rushes in which we found ourselves +temporarily entangled. Leaping from his canoe he pushed the rushes right +and left with his paddle, and soon, to our great delight, threw up his +hands and gave a characteristic Chippewa yell, thereby signifying that +he had found the object of his search. Returning, he seized the bow of +my canoe, and pulled it after him through the rushes out into the clear, +glistening waters of the infant Mississippi, which, at the point of +entering Itasca, is seven feet wide, and from twelve to fifteen inches +deep. + +"Lusty work with our paddles for half an hour brought us to a blockade +of fallen timber. Determined to float in my canoe upon the surface of +the lake towards which we were paddling, I directed the guides to remove +the obstructions, and continue to urge the canoes rapidly forward, +although opposed by a strong and constantly increasing current. +Sometimes we found it necessary to lift the canoes over logs, and +occasionally to remove diminutive sand-bars from the bed of the stream +with our paddles. As we neared the head of this primal section of the +mighty river, we could readily touch both shores with our hands at the +same time, while the average depth of water in the channel did not +exceed ten inches. + +"Every paddle-stroke seemed to increase the ardor with which we were +carried forward. The desire to see the actual source of a river so +celebrated as the Mississippi, whose mouth had been reached nearly two +centuries before, was doubtless the impelling motive. In their eagerness +to obtain a first view of the beautiful lake toward which we were +paddling, and greatly annoyed by the slow progress made in the canoes, +my brother and Paine stepped ashore and proposed a race to the crest of +the hill which Chenowagesic told them overhung the lake. To this +proposition of my companions I made objection and insisted that all +should see the goal of our expedition from the canoes. What had long +been sought at last appeared suddenly. On pulling and pushing our way +through a network of rushes similar to the one encountered on leaving +Itasca, the cheering sight of a transparent body of water burst upon our +view. It was a beautiful lake--the source of the 'Father of Waters.' + +[Illustration: Lake Glazier--source Of The Mississippi. +Discovered By Captain Glazier, July 22, 1881.] + +"A few moments later and our little flotilla of three canoes was put in +motion, headed for a small promontory which we discerned at the opposite +end of the lake. We paddled slowly across one of the purest and most +tranquil sheets of water we had encountered in our voyage. Not a breath +of air was stirring. We halted frequently to scan its shores, and to run +our eyes along the verdure-covered hills which enclose its basin. These +elevations are at a distance of from three to four miles, and are +covered chiefly with white pines, intermingled with the cedar, spruce +and tamarack. The beach is fringed with a mixed foliage of the evergreen +species. At one point we observed pond lilies, and at another a small +quantity of wild rice. + +"As we neared the promontory towards which we were paddling, a deer was +seen standing on the shore, and an eagle swept majestically over our +heads with food for her young, which we soon discovered were securely +lodged in the top of a tall pine. The water-fowl noticed upon the lake +were apparently little disturbed by our presence, and seldom left the +surface of the water. + +"This lake is about a mile and a half in its greatest diameter, and +would be nearly an oval in form, but for a single promontory which +extends its shores into the lake so as to give it in outline the +appearance of a heart. Its feeders are three boggy streams, two of which +enter on the right and left of the headland, and have their origin in +springs at the foot of sand-hills, from five to six miles distant. The +third is but little more than a mile in length, has no clearly defined +course, and is the outlet of a small lake situated in a marsh to the +south-westward. These three creeks were named in the order of their +discovery: Eagle, Excelsior and Deer. The small lake, which is the +source of Eagle Creek, I called Alice, after my daughter. + +"Having satisfied myself as to its remotest feeders, I called my +companions into line at the foot of the promontory which overlooks the +lake, and talked for a few moments of the Mississippi and its explorers, +telling them I was confident that we were looking upon the True Source +of the Great River; that we had completed a work begun by De Soto in +1541, and had corrected a geographical error of half a century's +standing. Concluding my remarks, I requested a volley from their +fire-arms for each member of the party, in commemoration of our +discovery. When the firing ceased, Paine gave me a surprise by stepping +to the front and proposing 'that the newly discovered lake be named +"Glazier" in honor of the leader of the expedition.' The proposition was +seconded by Moses Legard, the interpreter, and carried by acclamation, +notwithstanding my protest that it should retain its Indian name, +Pokegama. + +"Much to the surprise of every one, as we were about closing our +ceremonies, Chenowagesic assumed an oratorical attitude, and addressed +me as follows in a few words of true Indian eloquence: 'My brother, I +have come with you through many lakes and rivers to the head of the +Father of Waters. The shores of this lake are my hunting-ground. Here I +have had my wigwam and planted corn for many years. When I again roam +through these forests, and look on this lake, source of the Great River, +I will look on you.' + +"The latitude of this lake is not far from 47 deg.. Its height above the sea +is an object of geographical interest which, in the absence of actual +survey, it may subserve the purposes of useful inquiry to estimate. From +notes taken during the ascent it cannot be less than seven feet above +Lake Itasca. Adding the estimate of 1,575 feet submitted by Schoolcraft +in 1832, as the elevation of that lake, the Mississippi may be said to +originate in an altitude of 1,582 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Taking +former estimates as the basis and computing reasonably through the +western fork, its length may be placed at 3,184 miles. Assuming that the +barometrical height of its source is 1,582 feet, it has a mean descent +of over six inches per mile. + +"At Lake Bemidji the Mississippi reaches its highest northing, which is +in the neighborhood of 47 deg. 30'. The origin of the river in an untraveled +and secluded region between Leech Lake and the Red River of the North, +not less than a degree of latitude south of Turtle Lake, which was for a +long time supposed to be the source, removes both forks of the stream +outside the usual track of the fur-traders, and presents a good reason, +perhaps, why its fountain-head has remained so long enveloped in +uncertainty." + +The information imparted in the foregoing extract brings the whole gist +of the important discovery within the compass of a few paragraphs, and +it will be readily seen from this clear description of the new-found +lake that the source of the Mississippi is at last correctly located. +Many others have attempted to find it: Schoolcraft was sent out by the +Government especially for its discovery, but it remained for Captain +Glazier to successfully accomplish an undertaking which had hitherto +baffled the most determined explorers. This, too, he did entirely at his +own expense, and with no other motive than such as an ardent search +after truth inspires in ambitious minds. He had long doubted that Itasca +was the source of our greatest river. He knew no other way of satisfying +his doubt than by going himself to the remotest headwaters of the mighty +stream. He therefore went there, for with him to think is to determine, +to determine is to act. Friends tried to persuade him he was engaging in +a useless and extravagant expedition, and those to whom he applied for +information respecting the country through which he must pass warned him +that he would have to undergo many hardships; but to all this advice he +turned a deaf ear. His active, energetic, and enterprising temperament +was proof against all fear of discomfort, and his desire to know the +truth overruled every other feeling. And, when at last he stood by the +beautiful lake, the goal of his search, all the trials and annoyances of +his arduous journey sank into insignificance--lost in the depths of his +content. + +His companions gazed with delight upon the peaceful scene which lay +before them; and, as they noted the peculiar outline of the lake, what +wonder that the thought came--this was indeed the heart of the +Mississippi, pulsating with life for the great stream flowing onward and +ever onward, enriching and ennobling the land, until at last it loses +itself, by reason of its own vastness, in the waters of the Ocean. + +They rejoiced, too, that the first white man to stand at the +fountain-head of America's greatest river was an American--an American +who had fought bravely and suffered many privations for his country. And +as they watched the eagle, whirling in his flight over their heads, they +felt glad that he had chosen this spot for his home, in which to rear +his young in the same proud, free spirit which made him so fit an emblem +for their glorious land. + +Much astonishment was expressed by those of the party who were aware of +Schoolcraft's expedition in 1832, that he should have missed finding +this lake so closely connected with Itasca, and various were the +surmises as to the cause of this remarkable oversight. One plausible +suggestion was, that the rushes and reeds had so obstructed the entrance +of the stream into Itasca, that not having a previous knowledge of its +whereabouts, there was nothing surprising in its being overlooked. By +far the most probable theory, however, was advanced by Captain Glazier, +who stated, quoting Schoolcraft himself as authority, that when he +reached Itasca he was too much hurried to make a thorough exploration. +He had made an engagement to meet some Indians in council at the mouth +of the Crow-Wing River, fully seven days' journey from this point, and +he had not more than the seven days to accomplish it. Accordingly, as +his mind had been prepared by his guides all along to accept Itasca as +the true source, he only stopped long enough to see and hurriedly coast +the lake, and then returned to the Indian council on Crow-Wing River. +This is Schoolcraft's own statement, and there can be no doubt that it +is the true reason for his failure to locate the source correctly. He +never saw the beautiful lake to the south of Itasca, fed by the springs +and streams of the marshes which give birth to the Infant Mississippi. + +Therefore, he could not know that Itasca was but an expansion of the +stream, like other lakes in its onward course, a sudden growth, as it +were, which gave promise of the vast proportions the mighty giant would +hereafter assume. There would be something almost sad in his coming so +near and yet missing the mark at which he had aimed, if it were not that +he lived and _died_ in the belief that he was right in his assertion +that the great Father of Waters rose in the lake which he, oddly enough, +named Itasca. Oddly, because Itasca is a name given by the Indians to +the mysteries of their religion and necromantic arts, and Schoolcraft, +by his decided statements in regard to the lake, succeeded in enveloping +in mystery the true source for another fifty years. Why it should _ever_ +have been a mystery is a question often raised; but there can be no +doubt that it is owing to the fact that no fur traders and but few +Indians ever penetrate the boggy, swampy, lake-covered regions of +Northern Minnesota. + +Our explorers, having finished their survey of the lake, now disembarked +and prepared to hold suitable and becoming ceremonies to celebrate their +momentous discovery. First they drank of the clear, cool water to the +health of Captain Glazier, who had led them on to making this grand +achievement. The Captain then thanked them in a few eloquent and +appropriate remarks for their good wishes and also for their faith in +him, and the determination they had shown to stand by him until he had +reached the goal he sought. He spoke, too, of the magnitude and +importance of their discovery, of the knowledge it would add to the +geographical lore of the country, and of the strangeness of the fact +that the source of their mightiest river had so long been a disputed +question. The cause of this he attributed to the peculiarities of the +region in which it rose, the many lakes and swamps making much traveling +impracticable; and recalling the hardships which they themselves had +encountered, expressed his belief that it was not to be wondered at that +earlier explorers had been deterred from making the venture at a time +when civilization was even further remote than it was at present. He +then recounted some of the exploits of the heroic old explorers, and, +reminding his companions that three hundred years had passed away since +white men first beheld the mighty stream by whose cradle they were now +standing, he congratulated them on completing the work begun by De Soto, +Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin and Joliet. + +When he had finished Captain Glazier, true to his soldierly instincts, +proposed firing six volleys over the lake, one in honor of each member +of the party. This was accordingly done, and Mr. Paine closed the +ceremonies by leading off with three hearty American cheers for "the +discoverer and the discovery." The Indians chimed in with a Chippewa +yell, and then, while the air was still reverberating with the sound of +their voices, they all paused to take in once more the scene of their +explorations. + + + + +CHAPTER XL. + + +DOWN THE GREAT RIVER. + + + Voyage from Source to Sea.--Three thousand miles in an open + canoe.--"Pioneers of the Mississippi."--A thrilling lecture.--The + long voyage begun.--Mosquitoes.--Hunger and exhaustion.--The + Captain kills an otter.--Lakes Bemidji and Winnibegoshish.--An + Indian missionary.--Wind-bound.--Chenowagesic bids farewell to + the Captain.--Pokegama Falls.--Grand Rapids.--Meeting the first + steamboat.--Aitkin.--Great enthusiasm.--The new canoes.--Leaving + Aitkin.--Arrival at Little Falls.--Escorted in triumph to the + town.--"Captain Glazier! A speech! A speech!"--Lake Pepin.--An + appalling storm.--St. Louis.--Southern hospitality.--New + Orleans.--Arrival at the Gulf of Mexico.--End of voyage. + +Having decided to his entire satisfaction that the newly located lake +was the true source of the Great River, Captain Glazier was ready to +begin his descent of the stream, for, as yet, but a small portion of his +great undertaking had been accomplished. True, he had done what had +never been done before--he had penetrated into the innermost recesses of +the mystery which had so long enshrouded the head-waters of the +Mississippi, and traversed a part of the country where white man had +never trod before; he had added greatly to the geographical knowledge of +his country's mightiest river, and satisfied the spirit of investigation +which had impelled him to begin this novel adventure; but the by no +means least interesting, and at the same time, practical part of his +voyage still lay before him. De Soto, Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, +Joliet and Schoolcraft, all had navigated but portions of the great +flood of water to which they owe their renown; _he_ would descend its +entire course from its source in the wilds of Minnesota to its outlet in +the Gulf of Mexico. He would become familiar with the most striking +features of the country on either side, and study through personal +intercourse the varying phases of American character and life, as he +passed from the fur-bearing, lumber-dealing States of the North, by the +vast wheat fields of the West, and finally reach the cotton and sugar +plantations of the South. No one had ever attempted this before, and it +is probable no one will ever attempt it again, for the perils of a +voyage of three thousand miles in an open canoe are not purely +imaginary. And yet this was the only way in which he could +satisfactorily and practically accomplish his object of making careful +and minute observations along the route. Then, too, being himself so +much interested in all that concerned the great "Father of Waters," he +wished to awaken in others a like interest, and to effect this prepared +a lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," which he intended to +deliver at every town of importance on both banks as he floated down the +stream. "Pay tribute to those to whom tribute is due" is his motto, and +so the tragic fate of De Soto, the sad but poetic death of Marquette, +and the triumphant banner of La Salle, called forth from his ready pen a +lecture replete with historical interest. + +Standing, then, by the source of the mighty river, around which so many +beautiful Indian legends cluster, and about which the white man has ever +been curious, the Captain felt a natural throb of pride that so much of +his great undertaking had been successfully achieved, and a hope that +the future held further good in store for him. + +Giving the order for embarkation the canoes were soon gliding across the +water bound for Lake Itasca. Entering this lake, a short stop was made +at Schoolcraft's Island in order to obtain the remainder of their +luggage; after which they re-embarked, at three o'clock in the +afternoon, and continued the descent of the river. + +From Lake Itasca the Mississippi flows almost directly north, then takes +a turn to the east, and finally sweeps with ever increasing volume south +to the Gulf of Mexico. At first it quietly pursues its course between +rich meadows, and promises easy and safe navigation, so that our little +band of explorers after leaving Itasca expected to have a quiet and +uneventful voyage until they reached the inhabited part of the country. +Such was not the case, however, for they soon found their progress very +much impeded by drift-wood, snags, rapids, and boulders of every size +and description. They overcame these obstacles in various ways, all +requiring much exertion and endurance, and many a time their patience +was nearly exhausted. Sometimes they forced the canoes under the logs +which lay across the stream, and again cut a passage-way through them. +Now they removed the drift from their path and now were obliged to lift +the canoes over it. A little further on a huge boulder would confront +them, making it necessary to disembark and carry the boats around. +Presently a dangerous rapid would be met, and in shooting it some member +of the party would be precipitated into, the water, or perhaps a hole +stove in one of the canoes. At last they were obliged to make a +portage of about half a mile, and upon launching again, soon discovered +that the principal obstructions had been overcome. This was a great +relief to them, for the intolerable annoyance of swarms of mosquitoes +which came in clouds about them, biting even through their clothing, was +quite enough to bear patiently without having the hardships consequent +upon such rugged voyaging to endure. + +[Illustration: Captain Glazier Running Rapids On The Upper Mississippi.] + +Laborious, however, as they found this unusually rough canoeing, and +troublesome as were the mosquitoes, both trials sank into insignificance +when compared with their ever present danger of starvation. It will be +remembered how bravely all had decided, when they first made the +startling discovery that their supplies were at a low ebb, to pursue +their investigations even at the risk of running completely out of +rations. The strictest economy had been observed ever since, but despite +all their care they now found that unless they could reach a +trading-post within a couple of days they would be compelled to subsist +on such game and fish as they could capture; rather a precarious means +of existence to say the least, especially as they had but a very few +rounds of ammunition left. It was unanimously voted that Captain +Glazier, who was by far the best marksman of the party, should occupy +the bow of the first canoe, and gun in hand be ready to fire at any game +which he had a reasonable chance of hitting. One day while he was thus +keeping a sharp lookout for anything which gave promise of a meal, +Chenowagesic pointed excitedly to a small, black spot just showing above +the water, and told the Captain it was an otter. The Captain fired, and +to the gratification of all, the animal turned over on its back dead. +That day they were unable to bag anything else, and when they encamped +for the night the Indians prepared the otter for supper. At first the +white members of the party refused to share the meal, but hunger was too +much for them, and so, conquering their prejudices, they satisfied their +appetites with the meat, which probably resembles cat meat more nearly +than any other kind. The next day the Indians managed to kill several +ducks by driving them under the water and then spearing them with their +paddles; and the Captain's brother, having improvised a very ingenious +trolling hook, succeeded in catching two fish. The main part of their +diet, however, for four long days, consisted simply of blue berries, and +Captain Glazier became so weak from hunger and exhaustion that he was +barely able to sit upright. At last they met an Indian, a few miles from +Lake Bemidji, who supplied them with dried fish and other provisions, +and that night they encamped on the shores of the lake. + +The next day they pursued their voyage under more favorable +circumstances, the larder being tolerably well supplied, the river free +from obstructions, and flowing between beautiful groves and rich +meadows. Late in the afternoon they reached Cass Lake, where they +pitched their tents for the night, and the following day found them at +Lake Winnibegoshish, the largest expansion of the Mississippi. + +Their arrival at this lake was at a time when a strong south wind blew +the waters into white-capped waves, which ran very high, and the canoes +were nearly swamped before they could be forced into the little bay upon +the shores of which the Indian village stands. This village consists of +about a dozen wigwams and log-houses, and presents nothing more inviting +than a fine view of this beautiful lake. An Indian missionary named +Kit-chi-no-din is stationed here, and treated the party with marked +courtesy and hospitality, although he could speak but very little +English. During the two days in which they were wind-bound and obliged +to remain inactive, the Captain took several meals with him, and once +attended service in the little log-church of which he had been installed +rector by Bishop Whipple. + +During their enforced stay at Lake Winnibegoshish, Chenowagesic bade +farewell to Captain Glazier and returned to his home at Leech Lake. +Every effort was made by the Captain, who had found him invaluable as a +guide, to persuade him to continue the voyage with them; but his mind +was so filled with the legends he had heard of the Lower Mississippi +that no inducement could prevail with him. The Indians of these northern +regions very commonly believe that the eddies and whirlpools found in +the river further down its course are mysterious monsters, and that the +surrounding country is full of strange animals and fearful sights. + +On the third day of their stay at the village, the wind moderated +somewhat and they made an attempt to coast along part of the lake, +hoping to reach the outlet in that way. But after struggling with the +waves all the morning they came to a small inlet, and were forced by the +again increasing wind to seek shelter in it. + +The next morning another start was made, and, after some very rough +paddling, the party at length arrived at the outlet of the lake, and +from thence pursued the even tenor of their way without any further +interruption until they reached Pokegama Falls, two miles and a half +above Grand Rapids. Here they found a number of white men, the first +they had seen since leaving Leech Lake, encamped and engaged in building +a small steamboat to run up to Lake Winnibegoshish. After a portage +around the Falls they entered Grand Rapids, where they were rejoiced to +find a post-office, a hotel called the Potter House, and a few other +evidences of civilization, such as a comfortable bed, the first they had +slept in for many days. + +After leaving Grand Rapids nothing of any importance occurred until +Aitkin was reached, four days later, unless we except meeting the first +steamboat they had seen on the river. This was quite an exciting event, +for the passengers on the boat knowing from the papers that Captain +Glazier's party were on their way to Aitkin, recognized them, and +testified their pleasure in the meeting by cheering, waving their +handkerchiefs and hats, and calling after the explorers kind wishes for +their safety and success. + +At Aitkin, the most northern town on the Mississippi, a brief rest was +taken before the Captain embarked on the second stage of his seaward +voyage. He had now entered the bounds of civilization, and from this +point the principal incidents of his expedition were such as would +naturally occur in a country where the people delight to honor +enterprise, courage and ambition. All along the route great enthusiasm +was evinced. When it was announced through the medium of the press at +what time he would reach a given point, the inhabitants flocked to the +landing-place to do him honor; and many, more impatient than the rest, +would put out in canoes and skiffs to meet him on the way. Upon +disembarking he would be escorted to his hotel, usually preceded by a +band playing "Hail to the Chief" or other appropriate airs, and wherever +he delivered his lecture large audiences greeted him, curious to see and +hear the man who had at last discovered the source of the Mississippi, +and who had come so far on its mighty waters in a frail canoe. +Everywhere he charmed all who met him by the courtesy of his manners, +the eloquence and interest of his conversation, and the modesty with +which he spoke of his important undertaking. Some, indeed, were +disappointed by his lecture, having hoped to hear an account of his +discoveries. But while Captain Glazier might with perfect propriety have +spoken of his own exploits after recounting in glowing terms those of +the old explorers, he is too modest and reserved to say aught which +might in the least seem to detract from the achievements of his heroic +predecessors. Therefore, as his subject was the "Pioneers of the +Mississippi," he spoke only of their exploits, giving them in eloquent +words their just tribute of praise, and leaving it to others to say that +what _they_ had only begun _he_ had triumphantly finished. + +Upon leaving Aitkin on the fifteenth of August the birch bark canoes, +with the exception of the one used by the Captain himself, were +abandoned, their places being taken by a Rushton canoe, named "Alice," +after his daughter, and a Racine canoe of the Rob Roy pattern. Their +departure from this thriving little city was the signal for an +enthusiastic demonstration on the part of its inhabitants, who +congregated on the shore to see them off. Captain Glazier acknowledged +the compliment in a short speech, and then, stepping into his canoe, the +little flotilla paddled away amidst the cheers of the multitude. + +From this point the descent of the river was comparatively easy. Except +when rainy weather or violent winds prevailed, the voyagers found much +to enjoy in the novel life they were leading, the varying scenery they +met, and the altogether different phase which the Mississippi, the great +waterway of internal commerce in North America, presented to them. + +At Brainerd the Captain delivered his lecture for the first time, to a +crowded and appreciative audience. From Brainerd the party dropped down +the river to the antiquated town of Crow-Wing, opposite the mouth of the +Crow-Wing River. Remaining here over night they re-embarked next +morning, and gliding down the stream arrived at about three o'clock in +the afternoon at a point just above Little Falls. Here they were met by +a number of row-boats and escorted to the town. As the little fleet +approached the land the shores were seen to be crowded with people, and +the band struck up, merrily "A Life on the Ocean Wave," "See the +Conquering Hero comes," and other complimentary airs. As soon as a +landing was effected, cries of "Captain Glazier! Captain Glazier! a +speech! a speech!" went up, and in response to the demand the Captain +made a few remarks. First, thanking them for the kind interest +manifested in his voyage, he continued: "I find a great deal of +speculation as I go down the river in regard to the objects of this +expedition, and it may be well to state what they really are. My desire +is to study thoroughly the people, industries, and general features of +the grandest valley in the world--a valley which extends from the great +watershed almost on the northern boundary of the United States to the +Gulf of Mexico, a distance of three thousand miles, and where the +occupations of the people change from the lumbering and fur-hunting of +the north to the cotton and sugar-raising of the south. To do this +carefully and at leisure I take a method of traveling by which I can +devote as much time as is necessary to every section of the river, and +by which I can observe from a standpoint not reached by the ordinary +traveler. This, ladies and gentlemen, is why you see me to-day +descending the Mississippi in a canoe." + +The Captain was then escorted to his hotel by the band, and in the +evening delivered his lecture at Vasaly Hall, continuing his voyage the +following day. Between this point and Minneapolis numerous and dangerous +rapids were met, all of which were passed in safety, and the Falls of +St. Anthony were reached without accident. Below these Falls the scenery +was very beautiful, although the immense number of rain storms +interfered sadly with the pleasure of sight-seeing. + +When the party arrived at Lake Pepin, a beautiful body of water, thirty +miles in length and three in breadth, and surrounded by majestic bluffs, +they found navigation almost impossible. The winds sweeping down between +the bluffs caused the waves to rise so high that even the river steamers +had been compelled to tie up and wait for the storm to subside. The +Captain, however, had an engagement to lecture at Lake City, half way +down the lake, and as he had never yet failed to appear at the appointed +time he now insisted upon attempting to reach his destination. The +river men in vain endeavored to dissuade him from his purpose. It took +all day to make a pull of sixteen miles, and many a time it seemed as if +the frail canoes would certainly be swamped; but nevertheless they +arrived at Lake City in time for the lecture. And it may be mentioned +here that in this voyage, as in his journey from Ocean to Ocean, he +seldom failed to keep an engagement to lecture. No matter what the +stress of weather or unforeseen accident which would have delayed most +men, he surmounted every obstacle and invariably appeared on the +platform at the appointed hour. + +Bad weather, violent squalls, and dangerous rapids were of frequent +occurrence, but nothing succeeded in crippling the energy which Captain +Glazier had all along exhibited. His mind was bent upon reaching the +Gulf in his canoe, and he pursued his course unmindful of the dangers +which he almost daily encountered. At La Crosse the expedition was +reduced in number to the Captain and Mr. Paine, who, for the remainder +of the voyage, used the "Alice." + +St. Louis was reached on the eighth of October, and the voyagers were +heartily welcomed by the various boat-clubs of the city and by many +influential citizens. On October the tenth, they re-embarked and +continued their voyage towards the Gulf. + +From here Cairo, Memphis, Vicksburg, Natchez, and Baton Rouge were the +chief halting-places, although many a time night overtook them before +they could reach a town or city, and then they would be entertained at +some plantation near the shore with true southern hospitality. +Everywhere they were received with the utmost cordiality. The various +cities along the banks of the river seemed to vie with each other in +doing honor to Captain Glazier; the press spoke in the highest terms of +his expedition and of his great success, and every opportunity was +afforded him to make the most minute observations respecting the +customs, manner of life, business enterprise, and political condition of +the people of the different States. These observations he proposed to +embody in a work to be entitled "Down the Great River"--a work which, in +the light of the Captain's well-known facility as a writer, cannot fail +to be both interesting and instructive. + +New Orleans was reached at last, but as the Captain intended to return +there after visiting Port Eads, no stop was made, and the "Alice" +paddled past the Crescent City, arriving at the Jetties on the fifteenth +of November, one hundred and seventeen days after beginning the descent +of the river from its new found source, Lake Glazier. + +Many citizens of Port Eads had assembled in small boats at the entrance +to the Gulf to see the "Alice" and her gallant crew in the act of +completing their long voyage. Cheer upon cheer rent the air as the +beautiful little canoe, bearing aloft at the bow a pennant with the +inscription "Alice," and at the stern the glorious "Stars and Stripes," +paddled from the mouth of the river out into the wide expanse of the +Gulf. Guns were discharged, flags enthusiastically waved, and every +possible demonstration made which could give expression to the +excitement of the occasion. + +Reaching the beacon, the Captain and Mr. Paine disembarked, and, +clambering up on the wall, gazed out on the salt waters of the Gulf, +hardly able to realize that this was actually the goal towards which +they had been slowly paddling for almost four months. + +Thus ended the longest canoe voyage on record. De Soto, Marquette, La +Salle, Hennepin, Joliet, and Schoolcraft, had all navigated sections of +the Mississippi, but Captain Glazier was the first to traverse its +entire course, from the remotest headwaters to the outlet, a distance of +three thousand one hundred and eighty-four miles. This, too, he had done +in a frail canoe, amidst heavy rains and violent winds, in heat and +cold, in sunshine and in storm, steadily pursuing his course, +unfaltering in his purpose, deterred by no danger, determined only on +success. In the wilds of Minnesota he stood by the beautiful little lake +whose placid bosom first nourishes the infant stream. Paddling onward +with the current, ever increasing in strength and volume, he passed from +the dense forests of the North where nature holds undisputed sway, into +the realms of a civilization growing daily greater and greater. Finally +he reached the broad Gulf, in which the "Father of Waters," now strong +in the strength of maturity, and vast in his proportions, pours his +mighty flood. Every variety of climate, soil and production came under +his observation, and all the striking peculiarities of the Northern, +Western and Southern character. No other man had ever accomplished this, +and therefore it is not difficult to imagine that Captain Glazier's +emotions, when he first saw the salt spray of the Gulf dash high over +the seaward wall of the Jetties, were of an elevated order, and lifted +him for the time above the plane of every-day life. His long voyage was +completed, the objective at which he had aimed was reached, and his +plans had all been attended with success. Of little consequence now +were the dangers he had encountered, the annoyances which had beset him, +the difficulties he had surmounted. He was proud of the fact that he was +the first to stand at the fountain-head of his country's grandest river, +and was the first to traverse its entire course despite the turbulent +waters and dangerous whirlpools which threatened often to engulf him, +and now at its outlet could write "finis" to the great work of his life. +Few men in the world can say as much--for the energy, perseverance, +unfaltering will and indomitable courage which characterize Willard +Glazier are of rare occurrence, and entitle him to a prominent position +in the ranks of America's distinguished sons. + + + + +CHAPTER XLI. + + +RECEPTION BY THE NEW ORLEANS ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. + + + Captain Glazier returns to New Orleans.--A general ovation.-- + Flattering opinions of the press.--Introduction to the Mayor.-- + Freedom of the City tendered.--Special meeting of the New Orleans + Academy of Sciences.--Presentation of the "Alice" to the + Academy.--Captain Glazier's address.--The President's Response.-- + Resolutions of thanks and appreciation passed.--Visit to the + Arsenal of the Washington Artillery.--Welcome by the Old Guard of + the Louisiana Tigers.--Pleasant memories of the "Crescent City." + +After standing for some time looking out upon the vast expanse of water +which lay before him, Captain Glazier hailed a passing boat and, towing +the "Alice" after them, he and Mr. Paine were rowed back to Port Eads. +Here they were very hospitably entertained until the arrival of the +homeward-bound steamship "Margaret," which they boarded and on which +they returned to New Orleans. There they met with the most cordial +reception; people everywhere were curious to see Captain Glazier, and +anxious to show their appreciation of his enterprising spirit and the +success which had attended his last remarkable exploit. The press, not +only of New Orleans, but all through the Mississippi Valley, gave +glowing accounts of his voyage and of the reception tendered him at its +conclusion. The Mayor offered him the freedom of the city, and the New +Orleans Academy of Sciences gave him a public reception, at which +resolutions were passed recognizing the important results of his +expedition, and thanking him for the beautiful canoe "Alice," which he +had presented to that learned body. + +The following account of this reception is taken from the "_St. Louis +Republican_" of November twenty-eighth, and is presented to the reader +because, being the testimony of an eye-witness, it cannot fail to give a +clear idea of the manner in which the scientists of the city, and the +people generally, appreciated Captain Glazier and the work which he had +accomplished. + + + [Correspondence of the _Republican_.] + + "New Orleans, _November 23, 1881_. + +"The termination of the noted and unprecedented exploring expedition and +canoe trip of the Soldier-Author, Captain Willard Glazier, extending +from his new-found true source of the mighty Mississippi River to the +Gulf of Mexico, culminated, after one hundred and seventeen days' +voyage, in a very general and complimentary recognition and ovation on +the part of the officials and distinguished citizens of New Orleans. In +company with Dr. J. S. Copes, President of the Academy of Sciences, the +successful explorer was presented to his honor, Mayor Shakespear, and +was by him warmly welcomed, and the freedom of the city generously +tendered him. In appreciative recognition of the hospitality extended +him the distinguished soldier, author, and explorer, felt it a pleasing +as well as an appropriate opportunity to present his beautiful canoe, +which had safely carried him through his long and perilous voyage, to +the New Orleans Academy of Sciences. The occasion of the presentation +and acceptance was one of high order and much manifest interest. In +presenting the canoe Captain Glazier tendered the following letter: + + + "St. Charles Hotel, + New Orleans, _November 21, 1881_. + Joseph S. Copes, M. D. + President New Orleans Academy of Sciences: + + Dear Sir:--I have just concluded upon the border of the State of + Louisiana, a voyage of observation and exploration; and as you have + expressed considerable interest in the results of my expedition, + and manifested a desire to possess the canoe in which the + explorations were made, I find pleasure in presenting it to your + honorable society as a souvenir of my voyage and discoveries. + + During this canoe journey of over three thousand miles, beginning + at the headwaters of the Mississippi and extending to the Gulf of + Mexico, I had the satisfaction of locating the source of the Great + River which we have traversed, and feel a pride in having corrected + a geographical error of half a century's standing. + + I will not now enter into a detailed account of my explorations on + the Upper Mississippi, but shall take the earliest opportunity of + transmitting to your secretary a complete history of the voyage, + which will be issued in book form as soon as the matter can be + prepared for publication. + + Very respectfully yours, + Willard Glazier. + + +"A special meeting of the Academy of Sciences was held at No. 46 +Carondelet street, Dr. J. S. Copes, president, in the chair, for the +purpose of receiving from Captain Willard Glazier the handsome cedar +canoe 'Alice,' with which he navigated the Mississippi River from Aitkin +to the Gulf. + +"By invitation Captain Glazier gave an account of his explorations on +the Upper Mississippi and especially of that section of country beyond +Lake Itasca, which body of water has hitherto been considered the +fountain-head of the Great River. + +"Dr. Copes in the name of the Academy thanked Captain Glazier for his +valuable gift, which would be highly prized, and then congratulated the +explorer upon his contribution to American geographical knowledge, +comparing him with De Soto, Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, and Joliet, +whose highest fame was connected with discoveries relating to the +Mississippi. + +"In the course of his remarks the learned doctor said that De Soto +penetrated the continent of North America in pursuit of gold and +accidentally discovered the Mississippi. Marquette, the zealous +missionary, traversed the river from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the +mouth of the Arkansas. La Salle pursued his explorations from the mouth +of the Illinois to the Gulf, his sole aim seeming to be the conquest of +North America in the name of the King of France. Hennepin explored but a +small section of the stream, extending from the mouth of the Wisconsin +to St. Anthony's Falls, while Captain Glazier has made the important +discovery of its primal reservoir and traversed its entire length from +source to sea. + +"The members of the Academy listened with great interest to Captain +Glazier's graphic account of his discovery, and also to the intellectual +and historical address of Dr. Copes. + +"Dr. J. R. Walker then offered the following resolutions: + + _Resolved:_--That the thanks of this Academy are due and are hereby + tendered to Captain Willard Glazier for the donation of his + beautiful canoe "Alice," and for the brief narrative of his + explorations at the source of the Mississippi River, and of his + voyage thence to the Gulf of Mexico. + + _Resolved:_--That this Academy not only gratefully accepts this + handsome gift, but promises to preserve and cherish it as a + souvenir of Captain Glazier's high qualities as an explorer and + contributor to the increase of American geographical knowledge. + +"Mr. H. Dudley Coleman moved as an amendment thereto that a copy of the +resolutions be appropriately written and framed, and presented to +Captain Glazier, and that a committee of three be appointed to prepare +the same in accordance therewith. + +"The resolutions as amended were unanimously adopted, when Dr. Copes +appointed as the committee, Messrs. Coleman, Walker, and Blanchard. + +"The suggestion made by Mr. Coleman that the canoe remain at the arsenal +of the Battalion Washington Artillery until such time as the Academy +prepare a suitable place for it was acceded to. + +"At the conclusion of the meeting Mr. Coleman escorted Captain Glazier +to the Washington Artillery Arsenal, and introduced him to Colonel J. B. +Richardson, commanding the battalion, who accepted for the command the +care of the canoe, and extended to Captain Glazier the hospitalities of +the battalion during his stay in the city. Colonel Richardson and Mr. +Coleman then took him around the arsenal and showed him its attractive +features." + + * * * * * + +It will be readily seen from this letter that the members of the New +Orleans Academy of Sciences were much impressed with the importance of +the discovery Captain Glazier had made. The resolutions which they +passed were afterwards handsomely framed and sent to him at St. Louis. + +Among the many courtesies which were tendered the Captain during his +stay in New Orleans, he perhaps felt most deeply the royal welcome which +was given him by the Old Guard of the Louisiana Tigers. In his own words +"they could not do too much" for him, and when we remember that only +twenty years have passed away since these brave men and the gallant +Union soldier fought on opposite sides on the battlefields of Virginia, +it cannot be wondered at that he was much impressed with the cordiality +of his reception by his former foes. + +At the headquarters of the Washington Artillery, too, he found many who +as Confederate officers and soldiers had formerly been his opponents in +the war, but nothing could exceed the heartiness of their welcome and +the good-fellowship which they displayed. They showed him their old +battle-flags still religiously kept, but a moment afterwards pointed to +the Stars and Stripes which occupied a prominent position in the room. +Altogether Captain Glazier found it difficult to realize that there had +ever been other than the most cordial feeling between the North and +South, and this as much as anything else tended to make his stay in New +Orleans a pleasure which he will long remember. + + + + +CHAPTER XLII. + + +BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY. + + + Return to St. Louis.--Lecture at Mercantile Library + Hall.--Brilliant audience.--The Missouri Historical Society + present.--Eloquent introduction by Judge Todd.--"Pioneers of the + Mississippi."--Presentation of the "Itasca" to the Historical + Society.--Remarks of Captain Silas Bent on accepting the + canoe.--Congratulations of the audience.--Closing scene. + +On leaving New Orleans Captain Glazier returned to St. Louis, having an +engagement there to deliver his lecture on the "Pioneers of the +Mississippi." He had been unable to remain long enough for this purpose +during his previous visit to the city on his way down the river, as +winter was rapidly approaching and it was expedient to reach the Gulf as +soon as possible. Therefore, as many were anxious to hear a lecture +which had been so highly spoken of by the press of other cities, he had +been induced to return with this object in view. + +He was also desirous of presenting one of his canoes, the "Itasca," to +the Missouri Historical Society in recognition of the unbounded +hospitality he had enjoyed at the hands of the citizens of St. Louis, +and it was decided that the donation of the canoe, a beautiful specimen +of the Rob Roy pattern, should take place on the night of the lecture. + +Accordingly, on the evening of January fourteenth, a large audience +consisting of members of the Historical Society, Academy of Sciences, +clergy, officers and teachers of the public schools, and the various +boat clubs of the city, assembled at Mercantile Library Hall to listen +to his thrilling lecture on the pioneer explorers of the Mississippi, +and to witness the formalities of the presentation. + +At eight o'clock, Captain Glazier, accompanied by Judge Albert Todd, an +eminent lawyer, and vice-president of the Historical Society, made his +appearance on the platform, and, after the storm of applause which +greeted their entry had subsided, Judge Todd stepped to the front and +introduced the lecturer in the following terms:-- + + Mark Twain wrote that in his oriental travels he visited the grave + of our common ancestor, Adam, and as a filial mourner he copiously + wept over it. To me, the grave of our common ancestress, Eve, would + be more worthy of my filial affection; but instead of weeping over + it, I should proudly rejoice by reason of her irrepressible desire + for knowledge. She boldly gratified this desire, and thereby lifted + Adam up from the indolent, browsing life that he seemed disposed + and content to pass in the "Garden," and gave birth to that spirit + of inquiry and investigation which is developing and elevating + their posterity to "man's pride of place"--"a little lower than the + angels," by keeping them ever discontented with the status quo, and + constantly pressing on to the "mark of their high calling" beneath + the blazing legend "Excelsior." It is the ceaseless unrest of the + spirit, one of the greatest evidences of the soul's immortality, + that is continually contracting the boundaries of the unknown in + geography and astronomy, in physics and metaphysics, in all their + varied departments. Of those pre-eminently illustrating it in + geography were Jason and his Argonauts; Columbus, De Gama and + Magellan; De Soto, Marquette and La Salle; Cabot and Cook; Speke, + Baker, Livingstone and Franklin; and our own Ledyard, Lewis, + Clarke, Kane, Hall and Stanley. And this evening will appear + before you another of these irrepressible _discontents_ who would + know what is still hidden at any risk or privation. + + Impelled by this spirit of enterprise in search of Truth, Captain + Willard Glazier has discovered, at last, the true source of our + grand and peerless river, the "Father of Waters," down which he has + floated and paddled in frail canoes, a distance of more than three + thousand miles, to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. One of these + canoes is now placed here in your view, and will be presented + to-night by its navigator to our Historical Society. + + Nearly two hundred years ago La Salle discovered the mouth of the + Mississippi, yet only now in this year of grace, 1881, was + ascertained its true fountain source. + + This, the latest achievement of Captain Glazier, is only in the + natural course of his antecedents. Born as late as 1841, he has + already gone through the experiences of the Adamic labors of a + tiller of the soil, the hard toils of the student and of the + successful teacher; of the dashing and brilliant cavalry officer in + the Union army through the whole period of our late war, from its + disastrous beginning to its successful ending; of the sufferings of + capture and imprisonment in the notorious "Libby" and other + prisons, and of a daring and perilous escape from their cruel + walls; of an adventurous tourist on horseback through the most + civilized and savage portions of our continent, beginning with the + feet of his horse in the waters of the Atlantic, and ending with + their splash in the waters of the Pacific. He delivered lectures + along his route wherever a civilized audience could be collected, + and suffered capture by the Indians, with all its sensational + romance and hideous prospects. + + From the material of these antecedents he has written and published + several books of singular interest and national value. + + From this brief sketch we would naturally expect to see a stalwart + man, massive and powerful in form and muscle. Our conception of men + of big deeds is that they also are big. But David was a stripling + when he slew Goliath of Gath. Napoleon was characterized by the + society ladies of the period of his early career as "Puss in + Boots." Our own Fremont and Eads would seem at sight capable of + only the ordinarily exposed duties of life. Of like physique is the + subject of this introduction. + + Ladies and gentlemen, it is now my pleasant privilege to introduce + to your acquaintance Captain Willard Glazier as the lecturer for + the evening. + +At the close of Judge Todd's introduction, Captain Glazier began his +instructive historic lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," +holding the attention of all present by the interest of his subject and +the eloquence of his delivery. Beginning with De Soto, the discoverer of +the Great River, he gave an account of his early life and adventures, of +his ambition to found an empire like that of Cortez, and of his arrival +at the mighty stream in whose waters he soon found his final +resting-place. + +Marquette, the self-sacrificing missionary, was brought vividly before +the mind's eye of the hearer as the Captain described in glowing terms +the zeal with which he preached the Gospel to the poor benighted +Indians, and drew a picture with all its poetical surroundings of his +death and burial in the wilderness. + +La Salle came next, pushing onward down the river until he planted his +triumphant banner on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and took +possession of the surrounding country in the name of the King of France. +Hennepin and Joliet then claimed the attention of the eloquent speaker, +and their exploits were clearly and forcibly recounted in graphic +language. Other explorers were mentioned, but these formed the +ground-work of the lecture--a lecture replete with historical interest, +and crowded with such a vivid portrayal of incidents that from beginning +to end one can see as in a panorama the Great River and all the mighty +men whose fame is indissolubly connected with the history of its +waters. + +At the conclusion of the lecture the following letter to the President +of the Historical Society was read: + + + 1310 Olive Street, + St. Louis, _January 14, 1882_. + + Edwin Harrison, Esq., + President Missouri Historical Society: + + Dear Sir:--In my recent canoe voyage down the Mississippi, it was + my good fortune to receive many courtesies at the hands of the + press, boat clubs, and other citizens of St. Louis. This, coupled + with the fact that you have expressed considerable interest in the + result of my explorations, inclines me to present to you the + "Itasca," one of the canoes used in the expedition, for the Museum + of your Society, as a memento of my voyage and discoveries. + + During this tour of observation and exploration, extending from the + headwaters of the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, I had + the satisfaction of locating the true source of the mighty stream + down which we paddled our canoes to the sea. + + I am not now in a position to give you a detailed account of my + explorations on the Great River, but shall avail myself of the + earliest opportunity to transmit to your Secretary a complete + history of the voyage, which will be issued in book form as soon as + the matter can be put in proper shape for publication. + + Very truly yours, + Willard Glazier. + + +In response to this letter Captain Silas Bent, late of the United States +Navy, accepted for the Society the canoe in these words: + + Captain Glazier:--It becomes my pleasant duty to accept for the + Missouri Historical Society this beautiful canoe, which has itself + become historic by reason of the service it has rendered you. It + shall be deposited with other treasured relics in our museum. + + I have also to express to you the high appreciation in which the + Society holds the valuable contributions to geographical knowledge + resulting from your explorations among the headwaters of the + Mississippi River, and your discovery of the remotest lake that + contributes to the perennial birth of this hydra-headed "Father of + Waters," whose Genesis near the Arctic regions gives it a length of + more than three thousand miles to the tropical gulf, to which it + bears upon its ample bosom in safety the freightage of an empire. + + I desire, too, to thank you for the interesting lecture just given + us upon the achievements of the heroic old explorers, who have in + centuries past preceded you in investigations of the + characteristics of this river. But whilst past investigations have + made us familiar with the general character of the stream, and the + peculiarities of its many mouths, yet we know very little of its + source; and should be gratified I am sure if you could give us this + evening a brief account of the circumstances attending your + explorations in that direction, and of the difficulties you had to + encounter in the accomplishment of your object. + +In compliance with Captain Bent's request that he would give some +account of the events connected with his discovery of the source of the +Mississippi, Captain Glazier, greatly to the satisfaction of his large +and appreciative audience, now briefly narrated the leading incidents in +his voyage of exploration. + +When he had concluded his personal narrative many came forward to +congratulate him upon his discovery, and to express their appreciation +of the great work he had accomplished. All inspected the "Itasca," which +occupied a prominent position on the platform, with the curiosity human +nature invariably feels concerning any object closely connected with the +fame of a distinguished man or daring exploit. The beautiful canoe was +afterwards placed on exhibition at the rooms of the Historical Society. + + + + +CHAPTER XLIII. + + +GREETINGS OF THE VOYAGE. + + + An interesting souvenir.--Greeting at Lake Glazier.--Petition to + Geographical Societies.--Voice from Aitkin, Gate City of the + Upper Mississippi.--Tributes from Brainerd.--An old friend at La + Crosse.--Welcome at Davenport.--Greetings at St. Louis.--Senator + Lamar.--Royal welcome at Bayou Tunica.--Sentiment of Port Eads.-- + Congratulations of the officers of the "Margaret."--Greetings from + New Orleans.--"Fame's triple wreath."--Closing remarks. + +Such an expedition as Captain Glazier has recently concluded inevitably +gives birth to many souvenirs and trophies of the undertaking which are +always interesting, not only to their immediate recipient but also to +the public generally; for a man of his calibre is in one sense public +property, and as such everything associated with any important +enterprise of his, is loudly demanded by men of all classes without +regard to what would be considered its privacy under other +circumstances. It was the author's good fortune to see such a souvenir +of the voyage--an album in which are inscribed the autographs of eminent +men from various points along the entire route traversed, the first +being dated at the source of the Mississippi, and the last on the shores +of the Gulf of Mexico; and the thought occurred to him that this memento +of the latest exploit in Captain Glazier's exciting life could not fail +to be an object of some interest to the reader who had thus far followed +the soldier, author, and explorer in his eventful and successful +career. He therefore obtained permission to make a few extracts from the +large number before him, and these Greetings of the Voyage are now +presented to the public as a fitting conclusion to the story of the +Captain's journey from source to sea. + +The first in order is naturally that of Barrett Channing Paine, his +constant companion during the entire voyage. Standing by the +discoverer's side at the fountain-head of the Great River, he wrote: + + + Lake Glazier, Minnesota, + _July 22, 1881_. + + My Dear Captain:--From this beautiful lake where the mighty + Mississippi rises, my best wishes follow you down the course of the + "Father of Waters" till it mingles its flood with the sea. + + Very truly yours, + + Barrett Channing Paine. + + +We next quote a petition of Captain Glazier's companions to the +Geographical Societies of the country, although it is not found in the +album. It was published in the Missouri "_Republican_" and various other +newspapers, but being dated Schoolcraft Island, the first stopping place +after leaving the source of the river, it seems quite naturally to +follow the greeting of Mr. Paine: + + + Schoolcraft Island, + Lake Itasca, _July 22, 1881_. + + To Geographical and Historical Societies:--We the undersigned, + companions of Captain Willard Glazier, in his voyage of exploration + to the headwaters of the Mississippi, are fully convinced that the + lake located by him is beyond question the source of the "Father of + Waters." + + The privilege of bestowing a name upon the new discovery having + been delegated to us, we hereby name it LAKE GLAZIER in honor of + the leader of the expedition, whose energy, perseverance and pluck + carried us through many difficulties and brought us at last to the + shores of this beautiful lake--the True Source of the Great River. + + We respectfully petition all Geographical Societies to give it that + recognition which has heretofore been accorded to Lake Itasca, and + to which it is justly entitled as the primal reservoir of the + grandest river on this continent. + + Barrett Channing Paine, } + Indianapolis, Indiana. } _White_ + George Herbert Glazier, } _Companions._ + Chicago, Illinois. } + + Moses Lagard, } _Interpreter_ + Chenowagesic, } _and_ + Sebatise Lagard, } _Indian_ + Leech Lake, Minnesota, } _Guides._ + + +The inhabitants of Aitkin, the first town of importance on the Upper +Mississippi, took great interest in the expedition, and did all they +could to show their appreciation of the intrepid explorers. The +following is from the pen of Warren Potter, one of the pioneer citizens +of the place: + + + Aitkin, Minnesota, + _August 15, 1881_. + + Captain Willard Glazier:--As you float in your birch canoe upon the + bosom of the "Father of Waters" toward the sea, remember Aitkin, + the Gate City of the Upper Mississippi. + + Yours very truly, + + Warren Potter. + + +Brainerd, situated at the point where the Northern Pacific Railroad +crosses the Mississippi, is a thriving town, and has the honor of +possessing the first newspaper encountered in the descent of the river. +This paper, the Brainerd "_Tribune_," exhibited much cordial interest in +Captain Glazier and his successful explorations, and from time to time +published accounts of the voyage. The autographs of its editor, Arthur +E. Chase, is found in the album, as is that of Hon. Chauncey B. Sleeper, +district attorney for the county, who introduced him to the first +audience before which he delivered his lecture on the "Pioneers of the +Mississippi:" + + + Brainerd, Minnesota, + _August 19, 1881_. + + Dear Captain:--That your voyage down the Great "Father of Waters" + may be fraught with experiences both pleasant to yourself and + beneficial to the public; and that your undertaking may prove a + worthy epoch in American history, is the wish of + + Your sincere friend, + + Arthur E. Chase. + + + Brainerd, + _August 19, 1881_. + + To Captain Willard Glazier:--My cordial good wishes go with you on + your long and interesting journey. May it result in benefit to + yourself and your fellow-man. + + Chauncey B. Sleeper, + District Attorney. + + +At St. Cloud, Judge L. A. Evans introduced Captain Glazier to his +audience on the evening of his lecture in that city, and wrote as +follows in the album: + + + St. Cloud, Minnesota, + _August 23, 1881_. + + To Captain Glazier:--May your life voyage and your contemplated + voyage to the mouth of our Great River prove pleasant and + profitable. + + L. A. Evans. + + +Hon. Samuel E. Adams, whose patriotic greeting we quote next, is the +editor of the Monticello "_Times_," and was one of the early pioneers of +Wright County, Minnesota. + + + Monticello, + _August 24, 1881_. + + Love of one's country is always commendable, and may your labors in + its defence in the past, and its development in the future, be + crowned with imperishable renown. + + Very truly yours, + + Samuel E. Adams. + + +At Hastings, Captain Glazier was cordially and hospitably entertained by +the proprietor and editor of the Hastings "_Gazette_," and other +prominent citizens. On parting Mr. Todd writes the following in the +album: + + + Hastings, Minnesota, + _September 5, 1881_. + + With the cordial good wishes of the "_Gazette_" for a prosperous + voyage to the Gulf. + + Fraternally, + + Irving Todd. + + +The friendly writer of the following is loyal to his State while +greeting the man who evokes the sentiment: + + + Davenport, Iowa, + _September 25, 1881_. + + Dear Captain:--As you plough the "Father of Waters" in your frail + bark, think of "Iowa the Beautiful." + + Charles G. Plummer. + + +At Davenport, Iowa, Captain Glazier had the pleasure of again meeting +Colonel P. A. J. Russell, city editor of the "_Democrat_." This +gentleman had been the first to greet him on his arrival in that city +during his journey across the continent in 1876, and it was with much +cordiality that he now shook hands with the Captain and congratulated +him upon the success of his latest expedition. But we will let him +express his sentiments in his own language: + + + Davenport, on the Mississippi, + _September 25, 1881_. + To Captain Glazier: + + Safety and success--thus far + Adown this mighty stream; + May Heaven guard your progress still + And grant fulfilment of your dream. + + Very truly yours, P. A. J. Russell. + + +The first man to welcome Captain Glazier at La Crosse was Pearce Giles, +an old acquaintance whom he had known for many years in the East. Mr. +Giles tenders his congratulations in these words: + + + La Crosse, Wisconsin, + _September 10, 1881_. + + My Dear Captain:--I congratulate you on your important discovery of + the True Source of the Mississippi--a discovery which must + associate your name forever with the "Father of Waters." The + intelligence, earnestness, pluck and persistence you have displayed + in this, as in numerous other ways, are such as to give you a place + among the great Americans who have not lived in vain for their + country. + + Always sincerely yours, + + Pearce Giles. + + +The visit to Trempealeau, on the left bank of the river, introduced the +canoeists to some extremely agreeable people, whose hearty and +disinterested welcome will be long remembered by Captain Glazier. The +sentiment of one of them is thus kindly expressed: + + + Trempealeau, Wisconsin, + September 11, 1881. + + Captain Glazier:--My best wishes follow you down the "Father of + Waters" and through Life's Voyage. + + Very sincerely yours, + + M. H. Melchior. + + +While at Bellevue, Captain Glazier was entertained most agreeably by +Hon. W. O. Evans, editor of the Bellevue "_Republican_" who welcomed him +on his arrival, and launched his canoe when he resumed his voyage. He +seemed greatly interested in the Captain's explorations, and expressed +his interest in this manner: + + + Bellevue, Iowa, + September 18, 1881. + + Dear Captain:--That health, wealth, success and perpetual youth may + attend you in all your grand schemes and enterprises through the + Voyage of Life is the wish of your new-made friend, + + W. O. Evans. + + +At Hannibal, Captain Glazier landed and remained three days, during +which interval he met one or two valued friends. Before launching his +canoe this entry found a place in the album: + + + Hannibal, Missouri, + _October 3, 1881_. + + Dear Captain:--May the Mississippi--that Grand Old Patriarch of + Rivers--carry you safely to the Gulf! + + A. M. Paget. + + +The "_Post-Dispatch_" one of the leading newspapers of St. Louis, was +foremost in publishing accounts of the explorer's voyage from the time +he left the headwaters of the Mississippi until he reached the Gulf, and +hence the autograph of its editor, Colonel John A. Cockerill, now editor +of the New York "_World_," is of special interest: + + + St. Louis, Missouri, + _October 8, 1881_. + + The "_Post-Dispatch_," sailing on prosperous sea, sends greeting + and good wishes to Captain Glazier and all daring navigators. + + John A. Cockerill. + + +Thomas E. Garrett, of the staff of the "_Republican_," inscribed the +following poetic tribute: + + + Missouri Republican Office, + St. Louis, _October 14, 1881_. + + On land and water--staunch and true, + You steer and paddle your own canoe, + Strong arm, brave heart, will pull you through. + + Very truly yours, + + Thomas E. Garrett. + + +The editor of the Helena "_Yeoman_" writes: + + + Helena, Arkansas, + _October 22, 1881_. + + Captain Glazier:--May your present voyage down the great + Mississippi redound to your credit, and add to the honors you have + already won. + + W. L. Morris, + "_Yeoman_" Office. + + +Prof. J. J. Flahift, Superintendent of Public Instruction at Helena, +greets the navigator in these terms: + + + Helena, Arkansas, + _October_ 26, 1881. + + "Nothing great is lightly won, + Nothing won is lost; + Every good deed nobly done, + Will repay the cost; + Leave to Heaven in humble trust + All you will to do," + But, to reach the Gulf, you must + Paddle your own canoe. + + J. J. Flahift. + + +At Natchez, Captain Glazier had the pleasure of hearing Senator Lamar +deliver a political speech, and was afterwards introduced to him at the +Foster House, where both were registered. The Senator seemed much +interested in the Captain's explorations, and so signifies over his +autograph: + + + Natchez, Mississippi, + _November_ 3, 1881. + + Glad to have met you, Captain Glazier, and I leave with you my best + wishes for the success of your undertaking. + + L. Q. C. Lamar. + + +Bayou Tunica will always be held in pleasant remembrance by Captain +Glazier, for he was there most hospitably received and entertained by +John J. Winn, a prosperous merchant and planter. Mr. Winn insisted upon +his remaining with him for two days during the progress of a violent +storm which rendered the river unnavigable, and every effort was made to +make the time pass agreeably. His greeting to the explorer is short but +to the point: + + + Bayou Tunica, Louisiana, + _November 5, 1881_. + + Captain Glazier:--May your voyage to the Gulf be a pleasant one. + + John J. Winn. + + +Captain Glazier's first acquaintance with a sugar plantation was made on +reaching the estates of Messrs. V. U. Lefebre and son, who are +extensively engaged in the production of this staple of commerce. This +firm is counted among the wealthiest sugar planters of Plaquemine +Parish, owning and controlling three large plantations. The Captain made +the most of his opportunity to learn something of the art of sugar +manufacture. The cane-field and sugar-mill and every detail were +explained by his polite host, from the cutting of the canes to the +refining process. The Captain and his companion were hospitably +entertained an entire day, and on parting the senior Mr. Lefebre greeted +him in French, the tongue of his mother country: + + + Eliza Plantation, Louisiana, + _November_ 9, 1881. + + Cher Capitaine:--J'espere que votre voyage au Golfe sera agreable + que vous garderes un bon souvenir de la Louisiane. + + Votre sincere, + + V. U. Lefebre. + + +The inhabitants of Port Eads, the terminal point of the voyage, +displayed, if possible, a more lively interest in the expedition than +those of any other town along the river, for here it was that the goal +was reached and the Captain's long and hazardous undertaking placed +beyond the risk of failure. Some description has already been given of +the triumphant manner in which the arrival of the "Alice" at the Gulf +was proclaimed by the people, and the following lines of F. C. +Welschaus, one of the citizens, expresses, in all probability, the +general sentiment of Port Eads: + + + Port Eads, Louisiana, + _November_ 15, 1881. + + To THE DISCOVERER OF THE MISSISSIPPI'S SOURCE:--May all your + undertakings prove as successful as this one. + + F. C. Welschaus. + + +This kindly wish of Mr. Welschaus in reality concludes the greetings of +the voyage proper, but when Captain Glazier returned to New Orleans from +Port Eads, and afterwards to St. Louis, others were added to the number, +some of which are of so much interest that the author takes pleasure in +quoting them. + +The first in point of time was written by the officers of the steamship +_Margaret_, on board of which Captain Glazier steamed back to New +Orleans. This vessel was engaged in the fruit trade between the Crescent +City and ports in Central America. His reception and entertainment by +the officers was characteristic of sailors in general, cordial and +hospitable in the extreme. They expressed great wonder that a mere +landsman could make such an extended voyage in so small a boat, and many +questions were asked and answered upon this subject. Their farewell +greeting is thus entered in the album: + + + On Board Steamship "_Margaret_," _November_ 16, 1881. + + To Captain Willard Glazier:--We congratulate you upon the + successful completion of your great undertaking, and ask you to + accept the following as our sincere wish and fervent prayer: + + "May your bark of mortality + Glide down the stream of Time, + And land at last at that glorious haven + Where nothing reigns supreme + But joy, health, prosperity and happiness." + + John Otteson, _Commander_. + Richard Hunter, _Chief Officer_. + Albert J. Schlesinger, _Purser_. + + +While in New Orleans, Captain Glazier had an opportunity to listen to a +sermon by Rev. B. M. Palmer, a prominent clergyman of that city. The +Captain afterwards had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Palmer, who inscribed +this beautiful wish in the album: + + + New Orleans, Louisiana, + _November_ 22, 1881. + + Captain Glazier:--May your exploration of the Mississippi from its + source to its mouth be typical of your Voyage of Life, as it rolls + with its swelling flood into the bosom of God. + + Yours in the Faith of the Gospel, + + B. M. Palmer, + Pastor First Presbyterian Church. + + +The greetings from New Orleans would be incomplete without some +reference to H. Dudley Coleman, a member of the New Orleans Academy of +Sciences, and also of the Washington Artillery, of that city, who +extended many courtesies to Captain Glazier. Mr. Coleman was a cavalry +officer in the Confederate Army, and his command had been frequently +opposed to that of the Union soldier on the battle-fields of Virginia. +His Southern gallantry, however, prompted a cordial greeting, and the +true gentleman appeared in the numerous attentions he showered on his +former adversary in arms. Captain Glazier was greatly impressed by this +display of good feeling, and the evident desire manifested on the part +of many Southern gentlemen who received him to bury the animosities of +the late war and promote a state of harmony and cordial friendship. The +blue and the grey are no longer estranged, or such a hearty reception +could not have been accorded to Captain Glazier, whose name and +reputation were well known to many in the Crescent City as of a prolific +writer on military subjects from a Union standpoint. Mr. Coleman's +apparently sincere expressions of a deep friendly interest in the +Captain's exploits on the Mississippi impressed him very sensibly. Want +of space must be our excuse for not including his long and very cordial +greeting in the album. + +Albert G. Blanchard, also a member of the New Orleans Academy of +Sciences, and formerly a brigadier-general, C. S. A., shows his +appreciation of the explorations which Captain Glazier had successfully +completed in these terms: + + + I congratulate you on your successful exploration of the headwaters + of the Mississippi River. Your name will always be honored with + that of Robert Cavalier de la Salle, the discoverer of the outlet + of this river as you are of its source. + + Very respectfully your obedient servant, + Albert G. Blanchard, + Deputy City Surveyor. + New Orleans, + _November_ 22, 1881. + + +We next quote from the pen of Dr. J. S. Copes, the learned President of +the New Orleans Academy of Sciences. Dr. Copes manifested an intense +interest in the results of Captain Glazier's expedition, and endeavored +by every method within his power to show the high estimation in which he +held the intrepid explorer: + + + Captain Glazier:--I congratulate you upon the successful completion + of your search for the primal reservoir of the Mississippi River. + It would be well for the country to erect before the view of its + youths and young men two monuments, three thousand miles + asunder--the one at the source, the other at the mouth of the great + river of North America--upon which should be chiseled "Enterprise, + Courage, Faith, Fortitude, Patriotism, Philanthropy," leaving to + posterity the selection of an illustrative name to be engraven on + each one when events shall have pointed conclusively to the + benefactors most worthy of this honor. + + With great respect, + Yours very truly, + J. S. Copes, + President New Orleans Academy of Sciences. + New Orleans, + _November_ 19, 1881. + + +We will conclude this pleasing souvenir of the voyage by quoting the +sentiment of Judge Albert Todd, who, it will be remembered, introduced +Captain Glazier to his audience at St. Louis upon the occasion of his +lecture on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi," and the presentation of +the "Itasca" to the Missouri Historical Society. Judge Todd is one of +the oldest and most reputed citizens of St. Louis, and showed an +especial appreciation of the Captain's endeavors to increase the +geographical lore of the Mississippi River: + + + To Captain Willard Glazier--Greeting: + + With triple wreaths doth Fame thine head now crown; + The patriot-Soldier's, in fierce battles won; + The "Pen's," than the "Sword's," mankind's greater boon, + The bold Explorer's finding where was born + The rivers' King, till now, like Nile's, unknown. + * * * * * + May years of high emprise increase thy fame, + And with thy death arise a deathless name. + + Albert Todd, + Vice-President Missouri Historical Society. + St. Louis, _January_ 14, 1882. + + * * * * * + +The career of Captain Glazier up to the present time affords much food +for thought and speculation. His life is pre-eminently a life of +success, and is a brilliant example of what can be accomplished by the +aid of an indomitable will and untiring energy. Although his early +advantages of education and position were of a most ordinary +description, nothing he has ever attempted failed, and none of his +successes have been mediocre. As a soldier he rose from a private to the +rank of captain, and was known as one of the bravest officers on the +field--one of the best disciplinarians in camp; as an author his works +are found in nearly every home in the land, and are read with interest +by people of all ages, classes, and conditions of life; as a lecturer, +the press has ever spoken of him in the kindliest and most favorable +terms; as an equestrian traveler he accomplished a feat never before +attempted, and probably knows more about the wide stretch of country +through which he passed than any other man living; as a navigator and +explorer he not only discovered what had baffled the most determined of +all previous explorers, the source of the Mississippi River, but also +"paddled his own canoe" down the entire course from its fountain-head to +the Gulf of Mexico. He has then unquestionably succeeded in all that he +has undertaken; and, as all men aim at success, the query naturally +arises, why is it that Willard Glazier occupies so high a position in +each of his many fields of labor? The answer in all probability lies in +the fact that while _many_ men have ambition, _few_ have the untiring +industry, the calm perseverance, the determined will, and unfaltering +faith in themselves to grasp and hold the objects of that ambition. +Captain Glazier has never known what failure means, and recalling the +events of his life as portrayed in this narrative, now drawing to a +close, we can understand why this is true. Unceasing labor seems to have +been his motto. As soon as he had pursued one path of industry or +research until it could lead him no further, he sought out and traversed +another with unexampled patience and unflagging zeal. What wonder in the +light of such energy that unqualified success has crowned his +well-directed efforts! + +His career affords an example which all men would do well to reflect +upon and imitate. May the Youth of America, by the contemplation of a +life still comparatively young and yet so fraught with mighty deeds, be +especially inspired with the ambition to follow in his footsteps, and a +will to "carve with many a sharp incision," from the shapeless block +which lies before each, the rounded outlines of a strong and noble +character. + + + + +"SWORD AND PEN" COMMENDATIONS. + + +EXTRACTS FROM NOTICES OF THE PRESS. + + + _Syracuse Times._ + +"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," is +written in a very entertaining style. It gives interesting sketches of +Captain Glazier from boyhood down, and many amusing incidents are +related, in which is embraced a period covering the lively war times. +Near the end of the work is given a minute description of Captain +Glazier's discovery of the source of the Mississippi River, in 1881; in +which, of course, Lake Itasca loses its claim. The captain, after many +adventures, reached the true head of the Great River, which lies many +miles back and beyond Lake Itasca, and from thence he made a voyage down +the "Father of Waters" in a birch canoe, to the Gulf of Mexico. The book +is written by John Algernon Owens, contains 516 pages printed in +attractive style, adorned with numerous fine wood cuts, and is generally +attractive; in fact, people who have read "Battles for the Union" and +"Heroes of Three Wars" with so much interest will be equally interested +in the adventurous life of the soldier-author. + + + _Chicago Tribune._ + +"Sword and Pen" comprises incidents and reminiscences in the life of +Captain Willard Glazier, and in addition to his army experience gives +details of a novel and adventurous feat accomplished in 1876. In that +year he rode on horseback across the Continent from Boston to San +Francisco. Over 200 days were occupied in making the trip, and the +distance traveled was more than 4,000 miles. His object in undertaking +this journey was to study at comparative leisure the section of country +through which he would pass, and note the habits of the people he came +in contact with. During this trip he was captured by the Indians after a +severe fight, and one of the herders comprising the party was burned at +the stake. In 1881, Captain Glazier started on an expedition to discover +the source of the Mississippi River. In this he was successful, and +immediately thereafter commenced the descent of the river, passing its +entire length from the source to the Gulf of Mexico, in a small open +canoe. The new book entitled "Sword and Pen" gives a minute and graphic +description of the overland ride and the trip down the Mississippi, as +well as the early army experience of the well-known soldier and author. + + + _Hamilton_ (_Ont._) _Times._ + +"Sword and Pen" is a work replete with stirring pen-pictures of events +in the history of the United States during a critical period of its +history. Its description of the principal incidents in the late war, and +the suffering of the author and others in that detestable "Black Hole of +Calcutta"--the Libby Prison--are most graphic. Willard Glazier's life +was not confined to warfare, though he saw service in nearly all the +great battles between the North and South. A few years ago he rode on +horseback from ocean to ocean, and his observations on that +extraordinary trip are also included in this handsome and interesting +volume. He discovered the true source of the Mississippi in northern +Minnesota, and afterwards performed the journey of 3,000 miles to the +sea board in an open canoe, and a very interesting account of these +journeyings is given in the concluding chapters of the work which is +throughout beautifully illustrated. + + + _Troy Daily Times._ + +The Works of Captain Willard Glazier, the soldier-author, are so well +known and popular that a life of the writer cannot fail to be +interesting to a large portion of the public. A very complete and +excellent account of Glazier and his achievements has been prepared by +John Algernon Owens, and published by P. W. Ziegler & Co., Philadelphia. +The book bears the title of "Sword and Pen," and recounts the ventures +and adventures of the subject of it in war and literature, comprising +incidents and reminiscences of his childhood, his checkered life as a +student and teacher, and his remarkable career as a soldier and author; +embracing also the story of his unprecedented journey from ocean to +ocean on horseback, and an account of his discovery of the source of the +Mississippi river, and his canoe voyage from thence to the Gulf of +Mexico. The story is told in the simple, direct way that appeals at once +to one's favorable attention. It is an exciting, in some portions a +thrilling narrative, recounting some of the most dramatic and tragic +scenes of the war, in which Glazier, as a youthful cavalry officer, bore +a brave and manly part, being then but nineteen years old. The lad +abandoned his studies and his school teaching and went from Troy to +become a member of the Harris light cavalry, with which he served during +many a bloody fray. He was captured by the rebels and shared the hard +fate that fell to many a poor Union soldier in the prison pens of the +South, and the recital of this part of his experience will recall the +angry blood to the face of every old soldier who reads it, and arouse +the sentient sympathies of every patriot who peruses the volume. The +book contains an appreciative yet discriminating criticism of Glazier's +literary achievements, and is in every sense worthy of the hero with +whom it deals. It is profusely illustrated with battle and other scenes, +and is accompanied by a map giving an accurate presentation of the route +pursued by Captain Glazier in his trip to the source of the Mississippi. +Altogether this is a book well worth reading. + + + _Scranton Republican._ + +"Sword and Pen" by John Algernon Owens, a story of endurance, patient +toil, danger and daring, very entertaining, as well as instructive. In +Mr. Owens Captain Glazier has found a biographer who has done him +justice, and who has made a book that will be widely read. + + + _Oswego Times and Express._ + +We have before us a new book, entitled "Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and +Adventures in War and Literature." It is a biography of the +soldier-author, Willard Glazier, a type of the adventurous American of +which we may justly be proud. It takes up the boyish life of Willard +Glazier, takes him from the school-room as a pupil to the school-room as +a teacher, until the war of the Rebellion called him to the army. It +details his adventures as a member of the Ira Harris Cavalry until his +capture by the rebels, and the life he led in the prisons of the South; +and is detailed in a graphic manner. When the war was over the same +spirit of adventure which sent him to the front in the army drove him +into other adventures. The horseback ride from ocean to ocean is +described in an interesting style, followed by the search for the true +source of the Mississippi River and its successful termination, together +with an account of his canoe voyage to the Gulf of Mexico. The book is +full of action, and is interesting as giving a correct history of the +life of this remarkable man. It is profusely illustrated, and is +accompanied by a map of the section covered by the source of the +Mississippi. + + + _Boston Transcript._ + +The biography of Willard Glazier, under the title of "Sword and Pen," +has achieved a large sale in the Eastern, Western and Middle States. +The subject of the biography, who is still living, was a bright, +wide-awake lad, whose childhood was not more eventful than that of +hundreds of other boys of like condition. He was ambitious, energetic, +and wholly free from any bad habit which would operate as a drawback +upon his advancement in life. His parents were not able to do more for +him in the way of an education than to send him to a common district +school, but he thirsted for an education, and his mind was continually +busy devising ways and means to secure it. The much-needed money to pay +his expenses at the Albany Normal School was at last gained by trapping +minks, whose skins were worth from two to four dollars. From the Normal +he went to teach school, and was engaged in this profession when the +civil war broke out. He was then nineteen years old. The first shot +fired at Sumter changed his whole life plans, and the summer of 1861 +found him in the field as sergeant in the Second New York Cavalry. He +participated in a good many exciting contests, and was finally wounded +and captured at Brandy Station, in October, 1863. The story of his life +in prison is vividly told. He made his escape after fourteen months' +imprisonment, and made his way through the enemy's lines into Sherman's +army. After the war he wrote a volume made up of his war experiences, +entitled "Capture, Prison Pen, and Escape," over 400,000 copies of which +have been sold. In 1876, Captain Glazier started from the Revere House, +in this city, to cross the Continent on horseback, a feat which he +successfully performed, reaching San Francisco in two hundred days from +the time of starting--a distance of 4,133 miles. In 1881, he made a +canoe voyage down the Mississippi of 3,000 miles. Captain Glazier is the +author of several books, and has won considerable reputation as a +lecturer. The book before us will be read with deep interest, not only +for what it is worth historically, but as showing what can be +accomplished by pluck and brains without the backing of money. + + + _Buffalo News._ + +The readers of Captain Willard Glazier's works will be pleased with the +biography of this remarkable man, published by P. W. Ziegler & Co., of +Philadelphia. Captain Glazier's life is full of exciting interest, and +the well-written biography holds the reader's attention to the last. The +account of the discovery of the true source of the Mississippi is +especially interesting from the fact that it gives the best account of +that memorable event that has ever been published. + + + _Albany Sunday Press._ + +"Sword and Pen." This work is the biography of a man already well-known +by the American public as a soldier and an author. The subject is an +especially interesting one to the people of this section, as Captain +Glazier was born in St. Lawrence county of this State, and spent some +years of his life in this city. His works have been read with interest +by thousands, and now those who have enjoyed them will have the +opportunity to learn something of the author who has for so long +delighted them. This biography gives a very full and interesting account +of the principal events in Captain Glazier's life, among which we notice +especially his remarkable journey from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean +on horseback, his discovery of the true source of the Mississippi River, +and his canoe voyage thence to the Gulf of Mexico. All these episodes +are profusely and elegantly illustrated. + + + _Newark Register._ + +"Sword and Pen" is the suggestive title of a very readable and +interesting biography of Captain Willard Glazier, the soldier-author, by +John Algernon Owens. "Biography," the author tells us in his preface, +"to be interesting, must be a transcript of an eventful as well as a +remarkable career; and to be instructive, its subject should be +exemplary in his aims and in his mode of attaining them." The subject of +this biography certainly fulfills these requirements, and a much bolder +and less graceful narrative of his adventures and exploits would, +without doubt, be interesting and instructive. Mr. Owens has, however, +heightened the interest, and pointed the moral of his subject's +remarkable career by his clear and correct style, and lively and +picturesque narrative. Captain Glazier was born in northern New York, +near the St. Lawrence, in 1841. His boyhood was passed in the country, +and filled with all a rustic lad's delights and exploits as well as +disadvantages and privations. Fighting hard for an education, he became +a teacher, continuing in this peaceful vocation until the outbreak of +the rebellion summoned him to his country's defence. Passing through a +succession of the most remarkable adventures and escapes in the war, and +rising from the ranks to a captain's post, Captain Glazier has, since +the war, become widely known as the soldier-author, and the triumphs of +his pen have been fully as great as, if not greater than, those of his +sword. The work is well printed and handsomely bound, and will prove +very popular. + + + _Boston Globe._ + +The adventures of Willard Glazier admirably narrated by John Algernon +Owens, under the title of "Sword and Pen," is a fascinating biography in +which the author has woven many pleasing incidents, sometimes quite out +of the line of his story, yet always to the point and always +entertaining. The war adventures of Glazier, who is called the +"Soldier-author," have already been largely read and appreciated, +particularly by old soldiers. Willard Glazier has enjoyed quite a +literary renown, the sale of his first book, "Capture, Prison-Pen, and +Escape," having been over 400,000 volumes. Mr. Owens has now given us +Captain Glazier's life in a neatly bound volume, from the press of P. W. +Ziegler & Co. of Philadelphia. The hero of this story had an eventful +career which made it interesting. Born of parents of small means, but of +the old Puritan stock, and excellent character, and bred and nurtured in +the midst of the wildest and grandest scenery in the rugged county of +St. Lawrence, with no opportunities for culture, except such as he made +for himself, he rose by his ambition, and was the builder of his own +fortune. There is a strong lesson pointed out by the graphic history of +his career. It teaches to the young uncompromising duty in every +relation of life--self-denial and pluck. + + + _Newark Daily Journal._ + +"Sword and Pen; or, the Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier." +Willard Glazier is an author who has risen into popularity almost +unprecedented in this country. It is said that his first book, "Capture, +Prison-Pen, and Escape," written from facts noted in his diary after a +wonderful career on the battle-field, and in prisons of the South, +reached the enormous sale of 400,000 volumes. "Sword and Pen" is the +story of Captain Glazier's life. Born in obscurity, and toiling for an +education with great perseverance and against obstacles that seemed +almost unsurmountable, he became a teacher of the first rank when only +eighteen years of age. Enlisting in the Second New York Cavalry, at the +very beginning of the war, he served gallantly under General Kilpatrick +in all the battles of Virginia up to October 19, when he was taken +prisoner at New Baltimore, after having two horses shot under him. He +participated in digging the tunnel out of Libby Prison, through which +one hundred and fifteen Union prisoners escaped. Glazier, however, was +left behind. From Richmond he was sent to Danville and other prisons, +frequently attempting to escape. He was sent to Charleston jail, where, +with other prisoners, he was placed under fire of the Union guns on +Morris Island. Next he was sent to Columbia, and then comes a thrilling +recital of escapes and recaptures; wading through swamps and across +rivers at night, and lying hidden in thickets or negro huts by day; +tracked by blood-hounds, frequently shot at; enduring the pangs of +starvation, thirst, cold and rain, the hero finally reached Sherman's +lines after encountering a hundred deadly perils. The brave boy was a +prisoner when the term of his enlistment expired, but he immediately +applied for and obtained a new commission, and after a brief visit to +his parents, he re-entered the army and served until the end of the war. +The story is thrillingly told, yet between the many tragic events +depicted, there occur frequent humorous episodes, especially those +delineating negro character. Young Glazier's brilliant career as the +writer of "Soldiers of the Saddle," "Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape," +"Battles for the Union," "Heroes of Three Wars," "Peculiarities of +American Cities," etc., is fully given, with copious extracts from each +work, together with highly favorable notices from the _Boston Post_, +_New York Tribune_, _Chicago Inter-Ocean_ and other leading newspapers. +The last part of the book is devoted to a voluminous and somewhat +roseate description of Captain Glazier's highly successful lecture tour +on horseback from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean; his discovery of +the source of the Mississippi River, and his canoe voyage from thence to +the Gulf of Mexico. Captain Glazier is unquestionably a hero, possessing +genius of a high order, and as he is now only forty-two years of age, it +would seem that there are still brilliant achievements before him. +Whatever may be said of the literary merits of his biography, the +history is of absorbing interest. It is such that takes hold of the +popular heart, and the hundreds of thousands of Grand Army men who read +it will seem to "fight their battles o'er again." + + + _New York Herald._ + +"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," by John +Algernon Owens, is a well-written book and altogether readable. It +describes the humble origin of one who afterwards became one of the most +dashing officers in the Federal cavalry service during the war for the +Union. It tells of the vicissitudes of a life restless but resolute, and +which bears the stamp of heroism and success. There are stories of +school-days full of the activity and frivolity of youth, of failure and +fortune, and a graphic sketch of the turning point in Glazier's career, +which came with the rebellion. From the day he entered the ranks of the +Harris Light Cavalry his course was steadily onward and upward, rising +from corporal to be the captain of brave men nerved to the utmost +endurance and inured to the dangers and hardships of war. The ensuing +pages ring with the enthusiasm of martial achievements, of peril by day +and night, of capture, of the dungeon, and the thrilling escape. The +book closes with a vivid account of his famous ride on horseback from +ocean to ocean, from Boston to San Francisco. This unparalleled ride was +accomplished by Captain Glazier in 1876, the Centennial year, and serves +as a fitting conclusion to a career marked by indomitable industry, true +courage and unquestioned success, showing that + + "Honor and shame from no condition rise; + Act well your part, there all the honor lies." + +The book is profusely illustrated and will be an interesting addition to +either a public or private library. + + + _Hartford Courant._ + +"Sword and Pen; or, Ventures and Adventures of Willard Glazier," the +soldier-author, by John Algernon Owens. Captain Glazier has had a very +lively career both during the war and since, in explorations on the +upper Mississippi. He is the author of a long list of war books himself, +which have been much commended by the press, for their thrilling +narrative style, patriotic enthusiasm, and dash. He is evidently of the +stuff of which American heroes are made. The book claims for him high +rank as an explorer and discoverer in being the first to definitely +locate the True Source of the Mississippi. It is a readable story of an +adventurous life, and being fully illustrated, commends itself to all +classes of readers. + + + _Cincinnati Commercial Gazette._ + +John Algernon Owens has compiled incidents and reminiscences in the life +of Willard Glazier, the soldier-author, and the work should occupy a +position on the shelf of every library. The writings of Captain Glazier +are too well known to need any words of commendation from us, his +"Capture, Prison-Pen, and Escape," issued soon after the close of the +war, having been among the most extensively read annals of the war. The +"Sword and Pen" gives a sketch of the early life and adventures of the +soldier-author, his school-boy days, and the incidents of that halcyon +period of youth, all of which reads like a romance. His academic life is +then detailed, after which the stern realities of life are encountered. +His military life follows, and his capture by the Confederate troops. +Then follows a recital of the dreary and monotonous routine of prison +life, together with a vivid account of the scenes enumerated, the +escape, and the final entry into the Federal lines. His life after +re-entering the cavalry is given, and finally his career as an author +and travels across the Continent. The work is written in an attractive +style with a recital of much that has never been told before, while the +old is so garnished that it cannot fail to interest all classes of +readers. + + + _Wilmington Morning News._ + +"Sword and Pen" is the life of Willard Glazier, who was born in St. +Lawrence county, New York, in 1841, of parents of narrow means, who was +a bright, mischievous boy, who educated himself by his own efforts, and +became a country school-teacher; who enlisted in the Harris Light +Cavalry (a New York regiment), at the beginning of the war; who was +promoted from the ranks on account of soldierly qualities and personal +bravery, to the office of first lieutenant; who was captured by the +rebels and imprisoned in Libby Prison and other rebel pens; who finally +escaped and made his way on foot under great privations to General +Sherman's lines during that commander's "march to the sea;" who had made +full notes of his varied army experience, and from these had written +several very popular books about military life at that time, and who, +hence, is designated, "The Soldier-Author," and appears to be enjoying +all the quiet rewards of a patient, industrious, and resolute effort to +improve himself and his fortunes in every legitimate and proper way. As +an account of a boy of the people it is clear and instructive; as a +picture of patriotic and courageous military service at a time of public +peril, it is graphic and often thrilling; as a picture of a determined +and honorable effort by a young man of generous instincts, to make his +own way in the world, it is wholesome and useful. Its style will +probably make its obvious lessons the more impressive to the mass of +readers; and its general circulation among the young men of this +country, nine-tenths of whom must make their own fortunes if they are to +have any, will be a public benefit. It teaches honesty, self-help and +patriotism; and we cannot have too many teachers at work upon these +things. + + + _New York Tribune._ + +The history of a famous man can never fail to interest the reading +public, especially when it records such adventures and dangers as those +through which the hero of the "Sword and Pen" passed. Willard Glazier's +connection with the great civil war is a fact rendering unusually +fascinating his biography, as perhaps no other fact could have done. +The battles in which he fought are those around which centre the deepest +interest, and the vivid descriptions of his life in Libby Prison, his +unsuccessful attempt at escape therefrom, and his later imprisonment at +Camp Oglethorpe, are replete with interest to both old and young. The +book is written in a bright, attractive style, and is well illustrated +with many cuts of true war life and its thrilling incidents. For the +old, and especially the young, it is a book calculated to work much +good, teaching lessons of patriotism, self-reliance, and perseverance. +His life was one of unusual events, and his indomitable ambition to +advance was not the least of his many excellent qualities. Like many +other well-known men, he began life in humble circumstances, and only to +his own efforts was due the great success he achieved. The author, John +Algernon Owens, brings out vividly the strong points of his hero's +character, and throws around the whole narrative a halo of bright fancy, +which renders the book as attractive as the most highly wrought romance. + + + _Baltimore American._ + +"Sword and Pen." Willard Glazier has made himself prominent both in war +and literature. He cast his lot with the Federal cause, and served for a +time as a private soldier in the Second Regiment, New York Cavalry. A +little later he won laurels at the battles of Cedar Mountain, Manassas, +Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Brandy Station, and other historic spots, +and rose rapidly in rank, until at the sharp skirmish near Buckland +Mills he led his comrades as their captain, and was himself captured. +All these features in the career of the soldier-author are portrayed in +the most interesting style, and are followed by a graphic description of +life in Libby Prison. Mr. Owens winds together the thread of detail in +the ventures and adventures of his hero, so that the book reads more +like a romance than a veritable history. The book is divided into three +parts, which are so closely interwoven that the whole forms one +continuous story of a very adventurous life. The hero escapes from +Libby, but is recaptured and confined at Camp Oglethorpe, in Georgia. He +also escapes from this prison, and with the assistance of negroes, +finally reaches the Federal lines. In 1876, he crossed the Continent on +horseback, and was captured by hostile Indians. He escapes and +subsequently planned the way for an expedition to the source of the +Mississippi River. + + + _Philadelphia Ledger._ + +"Sword and Pen" by John Algernon Owens. Captain Glazier, the +soldier-author, is the writer of several popular works about the +war--"Soldiers of the Saddle," "Battles for the Union," etc. Though +still a young man he has had a most eventful life, serving throughout +the war, and passing through many adventures of which he has since made +good use in his life as an author. He has also accomplished the +remarkable feat of riding from Boston to San Francisco on horseback. +This memoir tells the story of his life in attractive narrative form, +and is full of interesting tales of the war. + + + _Philadelphia Evening Star._ + +Captain Willard Glazier, who is well known as the author of several +popular works about the late war, some of which have had an +extraordinary sale, has himself been made the subject of a book by Mr. +John Algernon Owens. Captain Glazier has had an eventful life; has been +a teacher, a soldier, an author, explorer and a horseback tourist; and +there is much in his career inculcating the value of self-reliance and +other sterling qualities. He has found an appreciative biographer in Mr. +Owens, whose work will more especially interest soldiers and those fond +of reading of adventure. + + + _Philadelphia Evening Bulletin._ + +"Sword and Pen" is a book describing the ventures and adventures of +Captain Willard Glazier, who was one of the many gallant heroes of the +civil war, and who wrote some clever books about it after he had laid +aside the sword for the pen. The author of the present work is John +Algernon Owens, and the account he gives of Glazier's youth and young +manhood, his experiences in battle, in prison, after peace came, in +domestic life and in literature, is full of interest, entertainment and +instruction. We heartily commend it to our readers. + + + _Philadelphia Inquirer._ + +Of course all Americans remember Captain Willard Glazier, the well-known +soldier-author, who has made himself prominent in war and in literature. +The present volume is a more than usually interesting one, and is most +carefully and effectively gotten up. It relates graphically the ventures +and adventures of Glazier from his youth to the present time; and many +of the adventures through which he passed are so thrilling as to seem +almost impossible, yet facts prove them true. Glazier's youth is +minutely detailed; we are treated to a series of adventures by the +youngster, which induce us to believe that his bump of reverence for his +teachers and elders was represented by a cavity. But passing through the +incidents that precede the age of manhood, he turned up in the Second +Regiment, New York Cavalry. From that time until the close of the war, +Glazier's career was a stirring one. From the early fight at Flipper's +Orchard, he successively took part in the battles of Cedar Mountain, +Manassas, Fredericksburg, Brandy Station, Gettysburg and other +engagements. At the cavalry engagement of New Baltimore he was taken +prisoner, and soon thereafter made the acquaintance of the inside of +Libby Prison. We get many glimpses of life in that well-known +Prison-Pen, and are treated to numerous pathetic and humorous incidents +that fell under Glazier's notice. All have read of what was endured by +such of the Union soldiers who passed that ordeal, and the reader can, +therefore, imagine what fell to the lot of this dashing cavalryman. The +great tunnel attempt at escape is graphically told. Glazier also got a +taste of prison fare at Camp Oglethorpe in Georgia. But he made his +escape, and fed and sheltered by negroes, at last, after a second +capture, reached the Federal lines. Soon after the war he wrote a book, +called "Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape;" later he wrote another volume, +called "Three Years in the Federal Cavalry." After this came "Battles +for the Union," speedily to be followed by "Heroes of Three Wars." After +this he rode across the Continent on horseback, and then took the +lecture field, and indeed he has proved himself a thorough American in +being able to do anything and everything equally well. Being possessed +of an energy and audacity that were perfectly marvelous, he rushed in, +as Shakespeare observes, "where angels feared to tread." It is a miracle +that he ever lived to relate them, for Libby Prison experience alone was +sufficient to destroy the constitution of the majority of the prisoners. +"Sword and Pen" will have a large sale. + + + + + APPENDIX + + BY THE + + PUBLISHERS OF + + "DOWN THE GREAT RIVER." + + + + +ADDENDUM. + + +The following Appendix to "Down the Great River," by Captain Willard +Glazier, is here reproduced in verification of his claim to the +discovery of the TRUE SOURCE of the Mississippi. + + P. W. Ziegler & Co., Publishers. + 720 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, May 10, 1889. + + * * * * * + +The publishers of Captain Willard Glazier's Works, having recently had +their attention drawn to sundry articles in the public prints calling in +question his claim to have located the source of the Mississippi, +conclude to invite the consideration of the reader to a few of the many +press notices, letters of endorsement and other papers placed at their +disposal by friends of the explorer, bearing directly upon the subject +of the primal reservoir or true source of the Great River. In view of +the apparent incredulity of some critics, it is thought expedient to lay +this matter before the public in connection with Captain Glazier's +latest work, "Down the Great River," which gives a detailed account of +his discovery, in order that a sound and enlightened conclusion may be +arrived at upon the merits of the claim presented. + + + + +I. LETTERS FROM BARRETT CHANNING PAINE. + + +We commence with the press correspondence of Mr. Barrett Channing Paine, +who, at the period of the Glazier expedition, was a reporter on the +staff of the Saint Paul _Pioneer Press_, and subsequently Managing +Editor of the Saint Paul _Globe_. This gentleman accompanied Captain +Glazier to the source of the Mississippi, and thence down the river in a +canoe to the Gulf of Mexico. During the entire voyage Mr. Paine was in +constant correspondence with the _Pioneer Press_ and leading papers of +various cities on the banks of the Mississippi, to which he furnished +detailed accounts of the discovery and incidents of the journey. We +present only a few of these letters, selected from a large number, for +the perusal of the reader. The writer was certainly in a position to +know the truth of the matters upon which he so intelligently reports. + +_Letter to the Brainerd (Minnesota) Tribune from Channing Paine:_ + + + "Schoolcraft Island, + "_Lake Itasca, Minnesota,_ + "July 22, 1881. + + "_To the Editor of the Tribune:_ + + "Captain Glazier's party arrived at this much-talked-of lake last + evening, reaching the south-eastern arm by a three mile portage, + and then paddling down to the Island, where we encamped. We left + Leech Lake on the sixteenth, after cordial farewells with the + gentlemen then at the Agency, especially Mr. Nichols and Rev. Edwin + Benedict, to whose kindness we were greatly indebted. Launching our + little fleet of canoes, three in number, on the billowy surface of + the lake, we started for our first objective, Lake Itasca. After + leaving Leech Lake our way lay up a river called by the Indians + Gabakauazeba. The river broadens out a short distance from the + lake, but narrows again and becomes tortuous and full of snags. + Passing safely through all these, we reached, late in the + afternoon, a fine lake nearly ten miles long, upon the shore of + which we encamped. Next morning we paddled to the upper end of the + lake, and were there introduced to our first real portage. Two + miles and a half over a very rough country--the hardest work we + ever undertook--brought us to another but smaller lake, and then, + for five days, lakes and portages followed each other in rapid + succession, until at length the waters of Itasca burst upon our + view. The talk of our guides, coupled with what we had heard at + Leech Lake, had led Captain Glazier to the conclusion that, + whatever the source of the Mississippi might be, there was + reasonable ground for the belief that Lake Itasca was not. Chief + among the theories advanced by the Indian guides, one of whom, + Chenowagesic, had hunted and trapped for years at the headwaters of + this river, was that there existed a lake of good dimensions and + wooded shores _above_ Itasca, which poured its waters into the + so-called source, and which was itself really the source of the + Great River. They also stated (correctly, as we afterwards learned) + that the stream which flowed from the lake spoken of by Paul + Beaulieu as perhaps the source, contributed much less water to the + main stream at its confluence with it than did the stream from + Itasca. Resolved to explore the lake _above_ Itasca, the captain + started with two canoes, next morning, from Schoolcraft Island, and + pushed up to the head of the lake. Chenowagesic piloted us through + the rushes with which this end of Itasca is filled, and presently + we found ourselves in a small but rapid stream, up which we went, + and after following its windings, paddled again through some + rushes, and then shot out upon the smooth surface of a beautiful + lake. This lake is about two miles long by a mile and a half broad, + and its shape is that of a heart. The shores are beautifully + wooded, and its waters are deep and clear. On its one promontory + our party landed. After exploring its shores, and first slaking our + thirst at a spring of ice-cold water which bubbled up near by, we + were marshalled in line, and Captain Glazier made a few remarks + pertinent to the discovery of the _true source_ of the Father of + Waters. After this six volleys were fired in honor of the occasion, + and then the question of a name for the new lake arose. This being + left for the party to decide, I addressed my companions, and after + alluding to the time, money and energy expended by the leader of + the expedition, proposed that it be named LAKE GLAZIER in his + honor. This proposition was received with applause and carried by + acclamation, and it was further decided that the name and date + should be blazed on a pine tree which stood conspicuously on the + point. After this we re-embarked in our canoes and returned to the + Island." + + * * * * * + +In the following letter Channing Paine gives a further account of the +discovery of the head of the Great River: + + + "Douglas House, + "_Aitkin, Minnesota_, + "August 11, 1881. + + "_To the Editor--Saint Louis Globe-Democrat:_ + + "Lake Itasca, for many years, has been regarded, both by + geographical societies and map-makers, as well as by the public + generally, as the source of the grandest of rivers--the mighty + Mississippi. But geographical knowledge, like all other knowledge, + is of little consequence if it is not progressive, and in its + history we have seen the firmly-rooted beliefs of centuries torn up + and tossed aside by the explorations and reasoning of intrepid + travellers, who, respecting truth and facts more than mere theory, + have accepted nothing without proof, merely because others have so + accepted it. This is the ground occupied by Captain Willard Glazier + in his explorations in search of the source of the Mississippi. + + "Starting for the headwaters of this great river in July last, he + learned that the dense forests which surround the source of the + Father of Waters were rarely penetrated by white men, or even by + Indians, at any time except in winter, when lakes and rivers were + frozen up, and the whole surface of the country covered with a + mantle of snow. + + "He also heard through the interpreter and Indian guides who + accompanied him that the aboriginal inhabitants of these primeval + forests did not regard Itasca as the source; but, while rejecting + it, differed among themselves as to what lake really was the + fountain-head. Some claimed that the stream from Itasca was not + itself the main stream, but flowed into the river proper some three + miles below the lake. The stream to which it was tributary, though + narrower, was, they claimed, deeper and swifter, bringing to the + united streams more water than the one from Lake Itasca. + + "Others considered the Itascan stream as the main one, but spoke of + another lake, broad and beautiful, which lay above Itasca and + poured its clear waters into the accepted source through a small + stream which entered the southern arm of Lake Itasca. Captain + Glazier determined to thoroughly examine all this region, and to + settle definitely and forever the true source of the Mississippi. + + "Acting in accordance with this resolution, he pushed on toward + Itasca, intending to make it a starting-point for further + exploration. Reaching this objective point after innumerable + hardships, he camped on Schoolcraft Island, and after a day of rest + directed operations toward the lakes and streams of the surrounding + country. + + "Thoroughly surveying the stream that the Indians claimed to be the + main one, he found it much inferior in volume to that from Itasca. + This point settled, he closely examined the shores of Lake Itasca + for tributary streams, finding but three of any importance. Of + these three the one by far the largest came in at the extreme head + of the lake, at a point where it is nearly filled with bulrushes. + + "Taking two canoes, Captain Glazier ascended this stream, which, + though shallow, is rapid, yet so narrow in places that to jump + across it would be an easy task. Following its windings, he entered + what appeared to be a lake filled with rushes. Pushing through + this barrier, however, the canoes soon glided out upon the still + surface of a beautiful lake, clear as crystal, with pebbly bottom, + and its shores covered with a thick growth of pine. This lake is + formed in the shape of a heart, having but one marked promontory. + Its greatest length is about two miles and its width a mile and a + half. + + "Captain Glazier found that this fine lake was fed by three + rivulets, which rose in swamps a few miles from the lake, and + thoroughly convinced that this body of water was the true source of + the Mississippi, he proclaimed it as such. Without waiting for + discussion, the members of the party decided unanimously to call it + Lake Glazier in his honor. Modestly expressing his thanks for this + mark of their appreciation, Captain Glazier said that, though he + firmly believed this lake to be the source of the river, he should + relax none of his vigilance on the trip through the unknown part of + the stream, but would carefully examine all water flowing into the + Mississippi, in order to be positive as to the main stream." + + * * * * * + +On reaching Hastings, Captain Glazier and his fellow-voyagers were +hospitably entertained by some of the leading citizens and Mr. Paine +addressed the following letter to the Editor of the _Hastings Gazette_: + + + "Foster House, + "_Hastings, Minnesota_, + "September 5, 1881. + + "_To the Editor of the Gazette:_ + + "For many years the source of the Mississippi was as much a mystery + as is at present that of the Nile. But when in 1832 Schoolcraft + made his official exploration of the headwaters of this great + water-course, and after a long and arduous journey up the stream + reached a lake which he named Itasca, and pronounced it the head of + the river, the matter was considered settled, and speculation was + no longer rife in regard to this point. Now, however, it has been + proved by Captain Willard Glazier beyond doubt that the lake which + has so long enjoyed the honor of being the source of our greatest + river had an honor it did not merit. + + "Going thither with the object of visiting the head of the river, + Captain Glazier was led to suspect by the talk of his guides, one + of whom, Chenowagesic, had hunted and trapped for years in the + region around the source, that Lake Itasca had really no greater + claim to be considered the head of the river than Cass Lake, or + Bemidji or Winnibegoshish, all larger and finer lakes than Itasca. + Above and beyond Itasca lay another lake. This, with its feeding + springs, was the source of the mighty river, and this lake, if it + existed, Captain Glazier resolved to visit and explore. After a + long and severe journey he reached it, being the first white + traveller to float upon its surface; and after thoroughly examining + its feeders and the narrow stream through which it flowed into + Itasca, he felt that he had found the _true source_ of the + Mississippi. Nevertheless, he continued his explorations along the + river below Itasca after passing through that lake, and satisfied + himself thoroughly that the new lake was at the head of the main + stream. In speaking of the source of the Mississippi, therefore, we + should henceforth call it LAKE GLAZIER instead of Lake Itasca." + + +The following description of Lake Glazier from the pen of Channing Paine +appeared in the _Dubuque Herald_ of September sixth, 1881: + + + LAKE GLAZIER. + + "The new-found source of the Mississippi is a sparkling little gem + of a lake, situated above and beyond Lake Itasca. It nestles among + the pines of an unfrequented and wild region of Northern Minnesota, + many miles from the nearest white settlement, and just on the + dividing ridge which forms the great watershed of North America. + Within a few miles of it can be found lakes and streams, whose + waters are tributary to the Red River of the North and the + Yellowstone, thus reaching the sea thousands of miles from the + mouth of the mighty Mississippi, which flows in a limpid brook from + LAKE GLAZIER. This lake, discovered to be the source of one of the + greatest rivers of the world, by Captain Willard Glazier, on the + Twenty-second of July, 1881, is about two miles in greatest + diameter, and would be nearly round in shape but for a single + promontory, whose rocky shores give it in outline the form of a + heart. The waters of the lake are exceedingly clear and pure, + coming from springs, some being at the bottom, but the three most + prominent rise a few miles back, in low, wet land enclosed by + sand-hills, and flow into the lake in little rills. On the very + point of the promontory is a spring whose waters are as cold as + ice, and at which the Glazier party slaked their thirst while + exploring the shores of the new lake. So lonely is the region + around the lake that for fourteen days not even a red-skin was + seen, and wearied by the hardships of this rough country, yet with + a feeling of having added something to geographical knowledge, the + Captain and his party were glad to return to civilization." + + * * * * * + +The Saint Louis _Post-Dispatch_ published the following, with several +other communications, from Mr. Paine: + + + "1310 Olive Street, + + "_Saint Louis, Missouri,_ + + "October 10, 1881. + + "_To the Editor--Post-Dispatch:_ + + "Lake Itasca has been considered to be the source of the + Mississippi for so many years that any man who disputes its title + to that honor is looked upon as a radical and one bent upon + upsetting all our preconceived geographical ideas. Still it is a + fact that Lake Itasca is _not_ the source, and has no greater claim + to being called so than has Cass Lake or Lake Bemidji or Lake + Pepin. This fact was discovered beyond all doubt by Captain Willard + Glazier, who equipped an expedition last July and started for the + headwaters of the Mississippi. Reaching Lake Itasca after a journey + of great hardship, he camped on Schoolcraft Island, and, using this + as a base of operations, he thoroughly explored the lakes and + rivers which contribute their waters to the infant Mississippi. The + various theories and stories heard from his Indian guides were + considered as clues and faithfully followed up until their truth or + falsity was ascertained. Success at length crowned his efforts, for + a beautiful lake was found above Itasca, and in the direct line of + the course of the river below Itasca, which lake proved to be the + farthest water--the extreme head of the Mississippi. The lake, + which the members of the expedition voted to call LAKE GLAZIER, in + honor of their leader, is about two miles in diameter, with clear + and beautiful water, fed by springs, and altogether one of the + prettiest lakes of its size in Minnesota. The stream which flows + from it into Itasca is quite rapid, though so narrow that in some + places one can easily jump across it." + + +The following account of an interview with Mr. Paine is extracted from +the New Orleans _Democrat_ of November twentieth, 1881: + + + "There arrived at the Jetties on the fifteenth a tiny cedar canoe, + bearing aloft at the bows a pennant with the inscription _Alice_, + and at the stern a United States flag. Its officers and crew + consisted of Captain Willard Glazier, a distinguished writer, and a + reportorial companion, Mr. Barrett Channing Paine, of the Saint + Paul _Pioneer Press_, who had come all the way down the + Mississippi, from its source, in this frail bark. Great, indeed, + was the joy of the voyagers as they glided down to the mouth of the + river, and saw the salt spray of the Gulf dash high over the + seaward wall of the Jetties. After clambering up by the beacon, and + standing gazing at the broad expanse of water, toward which they + had been paddling for the last four months, until they were + drenched by an unusually heavy wave, the two men again descended + slowly, scarcely conscious that their long voyage was finished. + Hailing a passing boat, they boarded her, and the light canoe was + made fast behind and towed back to Port Eads, where the travellers + were most hospitably entertained until the arrival of an inward + bound steamship to bring them to New Orleans. + + "As this is by far the longest canoe voyage ever made, and extended + the whole length of the Great River, some account of the + expedition, its aims and incidents, cannot fail to be of interest. + + "A representative of the _Democrat_ had the pleasure of meeting + Barrett Channing Paine, who accompanied Captain Glazier, and from + him learned the following particulars of the voyage: + + "Captain Willard Glazier is a serious, soldierly-looking man, and a + military author of repute. Among his best known works are 'Soldiers + of the Saddle,' 'Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape,' 'Battles for the + Union,' 'Heroes of Three Wars,' and 'Peculiarities of American + Cities.' The Captain does not look like a man of thoughtless, + adventurous disposition, and it seems strange at first that he + should have made the voyage in the manner he did; but it looks + sensible enough when his reasons are taken into consideration. The + Captain made the trip avowedly for the purpose of study and + observation, as he did his horseback ride across the continent, + from Boston to San Francisco, in 1876. He wished to thoroughly + understand the people of the great valley, their social conditions, + industries and modes of life. He also expected to obtain much + enjoyment from the changing scenery and climate. Had he travelled + by steamboat or railway, he would have been whisked through the + country in a week or so, and would have had absolutely no + opportunity for obtaining an inside view of the condition of + affairs. In addition to seeing the country, the Captain designed + delivering a lecture prepared specially for the purpose on the + 'Pioneers of the Mississippi,' in all the important towns on his + route. The lecture treated chiefly of the early explorers--De Soto, + Marquette, La Salle, and Hennepin. + + "Actuated by these motives, he procured a fine cedar canoe of the + Rushton model, which he shipped to Aitkin, the most northerly point + on the river reached by rail. He then went forward, himself, to + Saint Paul, accompanied by his brother, where he was joined by his + present companion, and there made final preparations for the long + voyage. + + "At Brainerd the party left the line of the Northern Pacific + Railroad, and proceeded by wagon over a road, which was hardly more + than a trail, to Leech Lake, where the Government has an Indian + Agency. The country traversed was exceedingly wild, being almost + without inhabitants, and covered with a growth of jack-pines. It + being the blueberry season, quite a number of Indians were seen + picking that fruit, which grows there in abundance. As a rule the + braves lay in the shade, smoking or sleeping, while the squaws and + children did the picking. At night they found a stopping-place at + Pine River, and the following afternoon arrived at the Agency, + where there are two trading-posts and a number of white men. + + "Here three birch-bark canoes were purchased, and the services of + an equal number of Indian guides procured, one of whom also acted + in the capacity of interpreter. All of these were required to reach + the source of the river, which was a matter of great difficulty and + some danger. Lake Itasca, which was then supposed by most people to + be the source of the Mississippi, lay five days' journey away, + through an almost impassable wilderness. Indeed, it was well-nigh + impossible to find even an Indian who had visited it. But at last + one was found in the person of Chenowagesic, a Chippewa brave, who + consented to pilot the party to that lake. + + "On July seventeenth everything was in readiness, the three birch + canoes were launched on Leech Lake, and the voyage had fairly + commenced. After crossing Leech Lake the voyagers pushed up the + Gabecanazeba River, which was filled with rushes and wild rice. + Laboriously paddling through these, they reached another lake, and + encamped for the night. Next morning this lake was crossed, and the + first real hardship of the expedition confronted them in the shape + of a portage. The provisions and luggage were taken out of the + canoes and transported on the backs of the Indians across the + country, a distance of three miles, through underbrush so thick + that they could not see ten feet in advance. Five days were spent + in this manner--first paddling across a little lake, and then + making a long portage, until at last Lake Itasca was reached, and + the party encamped on Schoolcraft Island. By this time the Captain + felt convinced from the talk of the guides, particularly of + Chenowagesic, the chief guide, whose words were translated to him, + that Itasca was not the source of the Great River. + + "Determined to ascertain the truth, he proceeded at once to make a + thorough exploration of the headwaters of the river, guided in a + great measure by Chenowagesic, who had hunted and trapped for years + in this region. Various streams joining the infant Mississippi were + examined, and found to contain less water than that stream, thus + establishing the fact that Itasca is on the main stream. Then a + thorough exploration of the shores of the lake itself was made. + Several creeks were found to enter it, the chief of which came in + at the southern end of the south-western arm of the lake. Itasca, + at this point, is filled with bulrushes, through which, with great + difficulty, the explorers forced their way, but were rewarded by + finding themselves in a clear, swift-running stream, having an + average depth of about ten or twelve inches, and a width of about + five feet. Up this tortuous stream the canoes were pushed and + dragged, and finally the voyagers shot out upon the surface of a + beautiful heart-shaped lake, which proved, upon careful + exploration, to be the true source of the Father of Waters. After + examining the shores, the party landed on a rocky point, and + Captain Glazier made a short speech, expressing his confident + belief that they had found the true source of the Great River, and + added something to the geographical knowledge of the country. He + was followed by Mr. Paine, who, after a few introductory remarks, + moved that the new lake be called LAKE GLAZIER, in honor of the man + by whom it had been discovered. This motion was adopted by the + Captain's companions, and after drinking from a spring of ice-cold + water which bubbled up at their feet, the party re-embarked. LAKE + GLAZIER is about two miles in greatest diameter, with clear, deep + waters and wooded shores, being altogether a prettier lake than + Itasca and both wider and deeper, to whose honors, as source of the + mighty Mississippi, it succeeds. + + "_Reporter._--Then which way did you proceed?" + + "_Mr. Paine._--From LAKE GLAZIER the descent of the river began. + Below Itasca it runs in a northerly direction for a hundred miles + or more, and then swings round to the eastward, finally bending + toward the south, which general direction it afterwards maintains. + For the first few miles it runs between rich meadows, and the + canoeists expected from this that the voyage would be easy and + agreeable. Such was not our fortune, however, for we soon found the + river to be obstructed by snags, drift-wood and boulders of all + sizes. Huge trees had in many places fallen completely across the + river. These obstacles were surmounted in different ways. Sometimes + the canoes could be pressed down and made to go under the logs; + again, they would have to be carried around; sometimes the drift + would be removed, and sometimes the canoes would be lifted over. At + last they had to be carried across a portage for half a mile, then + launched again, until at length the obstructions were passed. + Meanwhile, and all through the journey, the mosquitoes hovered + around us in clouds, making life a burden, and causing all the + members of the expedition to forget their early Christian training. + + "Leaving the obstructions behind, we sped smoothly between the + waving meadows once more lining the river. But a new hardship now + threatened us--our rations gave out entirely, and most of the + ammunition having become wet, starvation stared us in the face. To + buy anything in that wild country was, of course, impossible. This + danger was barely averted by the marksmanship of our leader, and + the dexterity of the Indian guides, who would occasionally kill a + duck with their paddles. We got down at last to 'hard pan,' and had + gone without any breakfast or supper the day we reached Lake + Bemidji. Here we were lucky enough to meet an Indian, who had a + little flour and pork, and having replenished our larder, we + crossed the lake and continued our course down the river. + + "A new danger now beset us in the shape of rapids which would occur + every few miles, rendering canoe navigation extremely hazardous. + Several times holes were stove in the thin birchen canoes, and a + number of times we were precipitated into the water, but no one was + dangerously hurt, and the guides were very deft in repairing the + canoes. + + "A half-day's journey from Lake Bemidji is Cass Lake, a fine sheet + of water, twenty miles in length by ten wide. The next day, + Winnibegoshish, the largest lake of the Mississippi, was reached. + It is twenty miles in diameter, and greeted us with a heavy sea, + which nearly swamped us as we paddled across the corner to a few + scattered wigwams which form the little Indian village on its + banks. Two days we were wind-bound, getting away on the morning of + the third. That night our camp was invaded by a number of hostile + Indians, but, owing to our vigilance, bloodshed was avoided. + + "In three days more Pokegama Falls were reached, and we saw the + first white man since leaving Leech Lake. Making a portage around + the falls, we shot Grand Rapids a few miles below, and slept that + night beneath the shelter of a roof. Nothing worthy of mention + occurred between this point and Aitkin, which we reached in four + days, and at last found ourselves within the bounds of + civilization, and bade farewell to our Indian guides. Captain + Glazier tried to induce these dusky sons of the forest to accompany + him to the Gulf, but the stories they had heard of the alligators + and snakes of the Sunny South terrified them, and they refused. A + short rest was taken at Aitkin, and then we re-embarked in the + pretty modern canoes which awaited us there. The descent of the + river in these canoes was easy and pleasant. At all the principal + towns the Captain delivered his lecture, 'Pioneers of the + Mississippi,' which was listened to with great interest. + + "Between Aitkin and Saint Paul numerous and dangerous rapids were + met, all of which were shot in safety; and the Falls of Saint + Anthony reached without accident. Below Saint Anthony Falls the + scenery is very beautiful, high bluffs arising with more or less + abruptness from the water's edge. + + "Among other points of especial interest along the Upper + Mississippi, Lake Pepin occupies the most prominent position after + Saint Anthony Falls. Environed by majestic bluffs and with a length + of thirty miles it forms a very beautiful sheet of water. But + though beautiful it is treacherous, and the winds sweeping down + between the high bluffs frequently make navigation on its waters + perilous. In the morning when we reached its upper end we found to + our dismay that the elements had possession, and the waves ran so + high that a number of river steamers had been compelled to tie up + and wait for the storm to subside. Captain Glazier, however, having + a lecture appointment at Lake City, half way down the lake, + determined to keep his appointment despite the weather, and + ventured forth regardless of the warning of the river men. It took + us all day to paddle a distance of sixteen miles, and many times it + seemed that our frail boats would be engulfed by the waves which + dashed over them; but the danger was passed in safety. + + "From this point things went smoothly until the canoe fleet was + just below Winona, when a sudden and violent squall struck the + boats and came near sending us to the bottom. Fortunately, this too + was weathered, and then the only drawbacks encountered were the + continuous and strong headwinds and the seas consequent upon them, + which tried our nerves so frequently that they came at length to be + naturally expected. While on the Keokuk Rapids the wind blew so + strongly that it actually carried the boats up stream, and it was + only by the hardest paddling that any downward progress could be + made. + + "At La Crosse the expedition was reduced in number to the Captain + and myself, who proceeded to the Gulf in the _Alice_. Some days + were spent in all the principal towns. On October eighth Saint + Louis was reached, and we were welcomed by the various boat-clubs + of the city and congratulated on having completed the first great + section of the navigable river. On October tenth we re-embarked and + pushed on towards the mouth of the river. Everywhere we were + received with the greatest cordiality. Cairo, Memphis, Vicksburg, + Natchez and Baton Rouge were the chief halting places, but + frequently night overtook us near some plantation house, and then + we were the guests of the planters, and were entertained with true + Southern hospitality. + + "Special occasion was taken by Captain Glazier to investigate the + cotton and sugar crops, the relations of the white and colored + races, and the future possibilities of the South; and with very + gratifying results. At last New Orleans was reached. + + "As it was so near his journey's end, and as it was his intention + to return as soon as he had passed through the Jetties, the Captain + determined to pass the city on his downward trip without halting. + This was accordingly done, and three days' paddling brought us to + Captain Eads' great work. Remaining there a day we returned to the + city. + + "Thus far Mr. Paine; and thus ended the longest canoe voyage ever + made, and one which perhaps entailed more hardships on those who + made it than any other on record. Starting from the cold springs at + its source Captain Glazier followed the windings of the greatest + river on our continent from the pine forests and the wheat lands of + the extreme Northern States, through all the varying phases of + climate and industries, to the cotton and sugar-cane section of the + South; past the orange and banana groves, and on to the broad Gulf. + Such a journey is full of interesting and strange experiences, + pleasures and hardships intermingled, and has, Captain Glazier + thinks, fully repaid the cost in time, money and labor of the + undertaking. + + "The canoe in which this long voyage was made has been presented by + the Captain to the New Orleans Academy of Sciences. + + "It may be well to mention that no one else has ever traversed + either in canoe, steamboat or otherwise more than two-thirds of the + course of the Mississippi; and when it is taken into consideration + that the distance is considerably over three thousand miles, and + that the upper portion is filled with rapids, logs and other + obstructions, it is not to be wondered at." + + + + +II. RECEPTION AT NEW ORLEANS AND SAINT LOUIS. + + +On his return to New Orleans from the Gulf, with the purpose of viewing +the great maritime city of the South, Captain Glazier was met by Dr. J. +S. Copes, President of the New Orleans Academy of Sciences. This +gentleman introduced him to Mayor Shakespear, and arrangements were at +once made for a public reception by the Academy. The following +interesting account of the ceremony is taken from the New Orleans +_Picayune_ of November twenty-first, 1881, and shows the estimate placed +on the Captain's exploratory labors by many of the most prominent +residents of the Crescent City: + + + "The termination of the exploring expedition and canoe trip of + Captain Willard Glazier, extending from his new-found source of the + Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico, culminated, after a voyage of + one hundred and seventeen days, in a very general and complimentary + recognition and ovation on the part of the officials and citizens + of New Orleans. In company with Dr. J. S. Copes, President of the + Academy of Sciences, Captain Glazier was presented to His Honor, + Mayor Shakespear was warmly welcomed, and the freedom of the city + tendered him. + + "In appreciation of the generous hospitality extended to him, the + Captain expressed a wish to present his beautiful canoe, which had + safely carried him through his long voyage, to the Academy of + Sciences, and the following letter accompanied the presentation: + + "'Saint Charles Hotel, + "'_New Orleans, Louisiana_, + "'November 21, 1881. + + "'_Joseph S. Copes, M. D._, + "'_President--New Orleans Academy of Sciences:_ + + "'Dear Sir:--I have just concluded upon the border of the State of + Louisiana a voyage of observation, exploration, and discovery; and, + as you have expressed considerable interest in the results, and + manifested a desire to possess the canoe in which the voyage was + made, I find pleasure in presenting it to your honorable society as + a souvenir of my expedition. + + "'During this canoe journey of over three thousand miles, beginning + at the headwaters of the Mississippi and extending to the Gulf of + Mexico, I had the satisfaction of locating the source of the Great + River which we have traversed, and feel a pride in having corrected + a geographical error of half a century's standing. + + "'I will not now enter into a detailed account of my explorations + on the upper Mississippi, but shall take the earliest opportunity + of transmitting to your Secretary a complete narrative of the + voyage, which will be issued in book form as soon as the matter + can be prepared for publication. + + "'Very respectfully yours, + "'Willard Glazier.' + + "A special meeting of the Academy of Sciences was held--Dr. J. S. + Copes, President, in the chair--for the purpose of receiving from + Captain Glazier the handsome cedar canoe _Alice_, with which he had + navigated the Mississippi from Aitkin to the Gulf. + + "By invitation, Captain Glazier gave an account of his explorations + on the Upper Mississippi, and especially of that section of country + beyond Lake Itasca, a body of water which has hitherto been + considered the fountain-head of the Great River. + + "Dr. Copes, in the name of the Academy, thanked Captain Glazier for + his valuable gift, which would be highly prized, and then + congratulated him upon his contribution to American geographical + knowledge. In the course of his remarks, the learned doctor said + that De Soto penetrated the continent of North America in pursuit + of gold, and accidentally discovered the Mississippi. Marquette, + the zealous missionary, traversed the river from the mouth of the + Wisconsin to the mouth of the Arkansas. La Salle pursued his + explorations from the mouth of the Illinois to the Gulf, his sole + aim seeming to be the conquest of North America in the name of the + King of France. Hennepin explored but a small section of the + stream, extending from the mouth of the Wisconsin to Saint Anthony + Falls; while Willard Glazier had made the discovery of its primal + reservoir, and traversed its entire length from source to sea. + + "The members of the Academy listened with great interest to Captain + Glazier's account of his explorations and discovery, and also to + the historical address of the President. + + "Dr. J. R. Walker then offered the following resolutions: + + "'_Resolved_, That the thanks of this Academy are due, and are + hereby tendered, to Captain Willard Glazier for the donation of his + beautiful canoe, _Alice_, and for the brief narrative of his + explorations at the source of the Mississippi River, and of his + voyage thence to the Gulf of Mexico. + + "'_Resolved_, That this Academy not only gratefully accepts this + handsome gift, but promises to preserve and cherish it as a + souvenir of Captain Glazier's high qualities as an explorer and + contributor to the increase of American geographical knowledge.' + + "Mr. H. Dudley Coleman then moved that a copy of the resolutions be + appropriately written and framed, and presented to Captain Glazier; + and that a committee of three be appointed to prepare the same. + + "The resolutions were unanimously adopted, when Dr. Copes appointed + as the committee Messrs. Coleman, Walker, and Blanchard. + + "At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. Coleman escorted Captain + Glazier to the Washington Artillery Arsenal, and introduced him to + Colonel J. B. Richardson, commanding the battalion, who extended to + Captain Glazier the hospitalities of the battalion during his stay + in the city." + + * * * * * + + +BEFORE THE MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY. + +Captain Glazier returned to Saint Louis from New Orleans, having engaged +to deliver a lecture in that city on the "Pioneers of the Mississippi." +On his voyage down the river and visit to the city, he was unable to +remain long enough to fulfil the engagement, as winter was rapidly +approaching, and it was expedient to reach the Gulf as soon as possible. +Moreover, he wished to present one of his canoes--the _Itasca_--to the +Missouri Historical Society, in return for the hospitality he had +received during his previous brief visit; and it was arranged that the +presentation should take place on the night of the lecture. Accordingly, +on the evening of January fourteenth, 1882, an audience consisting of +members of the Historical Society, the Academy of Sciences, clergy, +officers and teachers of the public schools, and the several boat clubs +of the city, assembled at Mercantile Library Hall, to listen to his +lecture on the pioneer explorers of the Great River, and to witness the +presentation of the _Itasca_. + +At eight o'clock, Captain Glazier, accompanied by Judge Albert Todd, +Vice-President of the Historical Society, appeared on the platform, and +the Judge introduced the lecturer in the following terms, as reported in +the local press: + + + "Mark Twain wrote that in his Oriental travels he visited the grave + of our common ancestor, Adam, and, as a filial mourner, he + copiously wept over it. To me the grave of our common ancestress, + Eve, would be more worthy of my filial affection, but, instead of + weeping over it, I should proudly rejoice by reason of her + irrepressible desire for knowledge. She boldly gratified this + desire, and thereby lifted Adam up from the indolent, browsing life + that he seemed disposed and content to pass in the 'Garden,' and + gave birth to that spirit of inquiry and investigation which is + developing and elevating their posterity to 'man's pride of + place'--'a little lower than the angels'--by keeping them ever + discontented with the _status quo_, and constantly pressing on to + the 'mark of their high calling' beneath the blazing legend + 'Excelsior.' It is this ceaseless unrest of the spirit, one of the + greatest evidences of the soul's immortality, that is continually + contracting the boundaries of the unknown in geography and + astronomy, in physics and metaphysics, in all their varied + departments. Of those pre-eminently illustrating it in geography + were Jason and his Argonauts; Columbus, De Gama, and Magellan; De + Soto, Marquette, and La Salle; Cabot and Cook; Speke, Baker, + Livingstone, and Franklin; and our own Ledyard, Lewis, Clarke, + Kane, Hall, and Stanley. And this evening will appear before you + another of these irrepressible discontents who would know what is + still hidden, at any risk or privation. + + "Impelled by this spirit of enterprise, in search of truth, Captain + Willard Glazier has discovered, at last, the true source of our + grand and peerless river, the 'Father of Waters,' down which he has + floated and paddled in frail canoes, a distance of more than three + thousand miles, to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. One of these + canoes is now placed here in your view, and will be presented + to-night by its navigator to our Historical Society. Nearly two + hundred years ago La Salle discovered the mouth of the Mississippi, + yet only now in this year of grace, 1881, was ascertained its true + fountain source. + + "This, the latest achievement of Captain Glazier, is only in the + natural course of his antecedents. Born as late as 1841, he has + already gone through the experiences of the Adamic labors of a + tiller of the soil, the hard toils of the student and of the + successful teacher; of the dashing and brilliant cavalry officer in + the Union army through the whole period of our late war, from its + disastrous beginning to its successful ending; of the sufferings of + capture and imprisonment in the notorious 'Libby,' and other + prisons, and of a daring and perilous escape from their cruel + walls; of an adventurous tourist on horseback through the most + civilized and savage portions of our continent, beginning with the + feet of his horse in the waters of the Atlantic, and ending with + their splash in the waters of the Pacific. He delivered lectures + along his route wherever a civilized audience could be collected, + and suffered capture by the Indians, with all its sensational + romance and hideous prospects. + + "From the material of these antecedents he has written and + published several books of singular interest and national value. + + "From this brief sketch we would naturally expect to see a stalwart + man, massive and powerful in form and muscle. Our conceptions of + men of big deeds is that they are also big. But David was a + stripling when he slew Goliath of Gath. Napoleon was characterized + by the society ladies of the period of his early career as 'Puss in + Boots,' Our own Fremont and Eads would seem at sight capable of + only the ordinarily exposed duties of life. Of like physique is the + subject of this introduction. + + "Ladies and gentlemen, it is now my pleasant privilege to introduce + to your acquaintance Captain Willard Glazier as the lecturer for + the evening." + + +Captain Glazier then delivered his interesting historical lecture on the +"Pioneers of the Mississippi." The adventures and discoveries of De +Soto, Marquette, La Salle, Hennepin, Joliet, and others, including the +more recent explorers, Pike, Beltrami, Schoolcraft, and Nicollet, were +intelligently discussed, and the attention of all present absorbed by +the interest of the subject. He spoke of the ambition of De Soto to +found an empire like that of Cortez in Mexico; of his arrival on the +banks of the Great River, and finally of his death and burial in its +depths. Concerning Father Marquette, the lecturer dwelt upon the zeal +with which he preached the Gospel to the benighted Indians, and his +premature death and burial in the wilderness. La Salle was then +presented as an intrepid pioneer, pushing down the mighty river to plant +his banner on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and taking possession of +the country through which he had passed in the name of the King of +France. The exploits of Hennepin, Joliet, and others were then +recounted, and the lecturer gave evidence of great familiarity with the +lives of these heroic pioneer explorers of the Mississippi. The +following letter was then read: + + + "1310 Olive Street, + + "_Saint Louis, Missouri_, + + "January 14, 1882. + + "_Edwin Harrison, Esq.,_ + + "_President Missouri Historical Society_: + + "Dear Sir:--In my recent canoe voyage down the Mississippi it was + my good fortune to receive many courtesies at the hands of the + press, boat clubs, and citizens of Saint Louis. This, coupled with + the fact that you have expressed considerable interest in the + result of my explorations, inclines me to present to you the + _Itasca_, one of the canoes used in the expedition, for the museum + of your Society, as a memento of my voyage and discovery. + + "During this tour of observation, extending from the headwaters of + the Mississippi River to the Gulf of Mexico, I had the satisfaction + of locating the true source of the mighty stream down which we + paddled our canoes to the sea. + + "I am not now able to give you a detailed account of my voyage, but + shall avail myself of the earliest opportunity to transmit to your + Secretary a complete history of it, which will be issued in book + form as soon as the material can be put in proper shape for + publication. + + "Very truly yours, + + Willard Glazier." + + +Captain Silas Bent, late of the U. S. N., accepted the canoe for the +society, in the following words: + + + "Captain Glazier: + + "It becomes my pleasant duty to accept, for the Missouri Historical + Society, this beautiful canoe, which has itself become historic by + reason of the service it has rendered you. It shall be deposited + with other treasured relics in our museum. + + "I have also to express to you the high appreciation in which the + Society holds the valuable contribution to geographical knowledge + resulting from your explorations among the headwaters of the + Mississippi River, and your discovery of the remotest lake that + contributes to the perennial birth of this hydra-headed 'Father of + Waters,' whose genesis near the Arctic regions gives it a length of + more than three thousand miles to the tropical gulf, to which it + bears upon its ample bosom in safety the freightage of an empire. + + "I desire, too, to thank you for the interesting lecture just given + us upon the achievements of the heroic old explorers, who have, in + centuries past, preceded you in investigations of the + characteristics of this river. But whilst past investigations have + made us familiar with the general character of the stream, and the + peculiarities of its many mouths, yet we know very little of its + source; and should be gratified, I am sure, if you could give us, + this evening, a brief account of the circumstances attending your + explorations in that direction, and of the difficulties you had to + encounter in the accomplishment of your object." + + +In compliance with Captain Bent's request that he would give some +account of the events connected with the expedition to the source of the +Mississippi, Captain Glazier then briefly narrated the leading incidents +of his voyage and explorations. At the conclusion, several gentlemen +came forward to congratulate him upon the practical results of his +undertaking and expressed their appreciation of the work he had +accomplished. The _Itasca_, which occupied a prominent position on the +platform, was duly inspected, and afterwards removed to the rooms of the +Historical Society. + + + + +III. LETTERS PERTINENT TO THE SUBJECT. + + +A letter from Captain Glazier which appeared in the Saint Paul _Pioneer +Press_ in December, 1886, and was copied into several Eastern papers, is +here introduced as an epitomized narrative of the discovery. The journey +to the headwaters of the Mississippi, the launch of the canoes on Lake +Itasca, the search for its feeders and the finding of one larger than +the others which the Indian guides said flowed from another lake to the +south of it; the passage of the canoes up this feeder and the entrance +of the explorers upon a beautiful lake which they ascertained by +sounding and measurement to be wider and deeper than Itasca, and _the +veritable source of the Great River_; all this is succinctly told in the +following letter of the leader of the expedition, and we respectfully +commend its perusal to the reader: + + + "_To the Editor--Pioneer Press, Saint Paul, Minnesota_: + + "I solicit the favor of replying through your columns to articles + in one or two New York dailies calling in question my claim to have + definitely located, in 1881, the true source of the Mississippi + River. + + "When my attention was first drawn to the articles of those who + seem so much exercised by my expedition to the headwaters of the + Mississippi, I had no intention of replying, but have finally + yielded to the reasoning of friends who feel that longer silence + might possibly be construed to my disadvantage. + + "I am well aware that I assume grave responsibility in locating the + source of the greatest river of North America and correcting a + geographical error of half a century's standing, especially since I + follow in the footsteps of such eminent explorers as Pike, + Beltrami, Schoolcraft and Nicollet; and in view of the fact that I + have presumed to pass the limit of their explorations. + + "For many years prior to 1881, I had been of the opinion that Lake + Itasca occupied an erroneous position in our geography. In fact I + had become satisfied through conversations with straggling + Chippewas in the Northwest, that the red man's ideal river did not + rise in the lake described by his white brother, but that there + were other lakes and streams beyond that lake and that some day the + truth of their statements would be verified. + + "Thoroughly convinced that there was yet a field for exploration in + the wilds of Northern Minnesota I resolved, in 1876, to attempt a + settlement of the vexed question concerning the source of the + Mississippi at an early day. Finding the opportunity I sought in + 1881 I proceeded to Saint Paul in June of that year accompanied by + Pearce Giles, of Camden, New Jersey. Here I was joined by my + brother George, of Chicago, and Barrett Channing Paine, then an + attache of the _Pioneer Press_. + + "Having completed arrangements we moved from Saint Paul on the + morning of July Fourth with Brainerd as our immediate objective. + Short stops were made at Minneapolis, Monticello, Saint Cloud and + Little Falls on our way up the river. Brainerd was reached July + seventh. This enterprising town is situated near the boundary of + the Chippewa Indian Reservation and is the nearest place of + consequence to Lake Itasca. Here I again halted to further inform + myself concerning the topography of the country; to decide upon the + most practicable route to our destination, and to provide such + extra supplies of rations and clothing as might be considered + adequate to the requirements of our undertaking. + + "After consulting our maps I concluded that while Schoolcraft and + Nicollet had found Itasca by going up the river through Lakes + Winnibegoshish, Cass and Bemidji, a more direct course would be by + way of Leech Lake and the Kabekanka River. + + "A careful study of the route to Leech Lake, with a few valuable + suggestions from Warren Leland, of Brainerd, one of its oldest + pioneers, led us to seek conveyance to the former place over what + is known in Northern Minnesota as the Government Road. This road + stretches for seventy-five miles, through immense pine forests, and + the only habitations to be seen from it are the 'half-way houses' + erected for the accommodation of teamsters who are engaged in + hauling government supplies; and the occasional wigwams of + wandering Indians. + + "While at the Leech Lake Agency it was our good fortune to meet the + post-missionary, Rev. Edwin Benedict; Major A. C. Ruffe, the Indian + Agent; Paul Beaulieu, the veteran Government Interpreter; + White-Cloud, chief of the Mississippi Indians; Flat-Mouth, head + chief of the Chippewas, and others well known at the Agency. + Through conversations with these parties I learned that pioneers of + that region were of the opinion that the lake located by + Schoolcraft was the source of the Mississippi, but that the Indians + invariably claimed that the Great River had its origin above and + beyond Itasca, in a beautiful lake known to them as Pokegama, + signifying the 'place where the waters gather.' + + "Beaulieu, who is perhaps the best authority in Minnesota, having + lived for more than sixty years within its borders, said that + Chenowagesic, who afterwards became my chief guide, was the most + intelligent Chippewa of his acquaintance, had made his home for + many years in the vicinity of the headwaters of the Mississippi, + and that he had always asserted, when maps were shown him, that a + lake above Itasca would in time change a feature of those maps and + confirm his statement that Lake Itasca could not longer maintain + its claim to being the fountain-head of the Great River. + + "Three days were spent at Leech Lake, during which time we secured + an interpreter, Indian guides and birch bark canoes. Everything + being in order we launched our canoes on the morning of July + seventeenth. Wishing, as previously explained, to approach Itasca + by a different route from that adopted by Schoolcraft and Nicollet + who went up the Mississippi from Lake Winnibegoshish, I crossed + Leech Lake and ascended the Kabekanka River, thence proceeding in a + direct westerly course through twenty-one lakes, alternated by as + many portages, reaching Itasca between two and three o'clock on + the afternoon of the twenty-first. The region traversed, we were + told by the guides, had never before been trodden by white men; and + considering the nature of the country it is not to be wondered at, + as swamps, floating bogs, and dense undergrowth were encountered + throughout the entire journey. + + "The work of coasting Itasca for its feeders was begun at an early + hour on the morning of the twenty-second. We found the outlets of + six small streams, two having well-defined mouths, and four + filtering into the lake through bogs. The upper or southern end of + the south-western arm of Lake Itasca is heavily margined with reeds + and rushes, and it was not without considerable difficulty that we + forced our way through this barrier into the larger of the two open + streams which enter at this point. This stream, at its mouth, is + seven feet wide and about three feet deep. + + "Slow and sinuous progress of between two and three hundred yards + brought us to a blockade of logs and shallow water. Determined to + float in my canoe upon the surface of the lake towards which we + were paddling, I directed the guides to remove the obstructions, + and continued to urge the canoes rapidly forward, although opposed + by a strong and constantly increasing current. On pulling and + pushing our way through a network of rushes, similar to that + encountered on leaving Lake Itasca, the cheering sight of a + tranquil and limpid sheet of water burst upon our view. + + "This lake, the Chippewa name of which is _Pokegama_, is about a + mile and a half in its greatest diameter, covers an area of two + hundred and fifty acres, and would be nearly an oval in form but + for a single promontory, which extends its shores into the lake, so + as to give it in outline the appearance of a heart. Its feeders are + three small creeks, two of which enter on the right and left of the + headland, and have their origin in springs at the foot of sand + hills from two to three miles distant. The third stream is but + little more than a rivulet of a mile in length, has no clearly + defined course, and is the outlet of a small pond or lakelet to the + south-westward. + + "The latitude of the lake in question is about 47 deg.; its height + above the Atlantic Ocean 1,582 feet, and its distance from the Gulf + of Mexico 3,184 miles. + + "The statement that the lake now very generally accepted by + geographers, and educational publishers as the True Source of the + Mississippi was so regarded prior to the organization of my + expedition cannot be substantiated; for, on the contrary, both + press and people throughout Minnesota were ignorant of its + existence, so far as we were able to ascertain by diligent inquiry + from Saint Paul to Brainerd; and, in fact, I may add that the + missionary, Indian agent, and post-trader at Leech Lake knew no + other source of the Mississippi than Lake Itasca, except what they + had been told by my chief guide, Chenowagesic, and a few other + Chippewas in that vicinity. Barrett Channing Paine, fully confirms + this statement in his letters to the Brainerd, Minneapolis, and + Saint Paul papers of that period. These letters prove most + conclusively that the people of Northern Minnesota had no knowledge + whatever of the lake beyond Itasca until its existence was + announced by me through the medium of the press in 1881. + + "If the assumption by some writers that the lake to the south of + Itasca had been seen before my visit to that region in 1881 is well + grounded, I need only say in reply that it had not been assigned + any geographical importance prior to my visit; in other words, it + had not been recognized by any one as the true source of the + Mississippi. + + "When William Morrison, the fur-trader, pitched his tent on + Schoolcraft Island in 1804, he evidently did not know that the + outlet of the lake on which he looked was a part of the mighty + river. Schoolcraft followed, at the head of an expedition + twenty-eight years later, and claimed the lake as the source of the + Mississippi. It is very generally admitted that Morrison had seen + Itasca before Schoolcraft, but no one questioned that the latter + was entitled to the credit of discovery, since he was the first to + establish the fact that the Mississippi was its outlet. My claim to + have definitely located the _true source_ in the lake beyond Itasca + stands on precisely the same ground. + + "I do not desire to pass a reasonable limit in an effort to insure + justice, but having consumed considerable time and money in + locating lakes and streams in Northern Minnesota, and having + established that the lake to the south of Itasca is the primal + reservoir of the Mississippi, I do not feel disposed to allow + myself to be thrust aside by those who know comparatively little or + nothing of that region. + + "Assuming that the statements of my party are incontrovertible + concerning the lake which we claim as the True Source of the Great + River, it follows naturally: + + "I. That Lake Itasca cannot longer be recognized as the + fountain-head of the Mississippi, for the reason that it is the + custom, agreeably to the definition of geographers, to fix upon the + remotest water, and a lake if possible, as the source of a river. + + "II. That the lake to the south of Itasca, and connected therewith + by a perennial stream, is the primal reservoir or True Source of + the Mississippi; that it was not so considered prior to the visit + of my expedition in 1881; and that my party was the first to locate + its feeders correctly, and discover its true relation to the Great + River. + + "III. That Schoolcraft could not have seen the lake located by me, + else he would have assigned it its true character in the narrative + of his expedition. + + "IV. That Nicollet, who followed Schoolcraft, could not have been + aware of its existence, as he gives it no place upon his maps, or + description in the accounts of his explorations. + + "V. That the lake known as Pokegama by the Chippewas was not + christened 'Glazier' by me, or through my instrumentality, but was + so named by my companions, in opposition to my wish that it should + retain its Indian appellation. + + "Finally, whatever the verdict may be upon the merits of my claim + to have been the first to locate the _source_ of the Mississippi + River and publish it to the world, if any person had seen this lake + prior to 1881 it was certainly not known to the white residents of + Northern Minnesota, or to the Indian tribes in the vicinity of its + headwaters. Lake Itasca was still recognized as the fountain-head, + was so placed upon maps, and taught as such in all the schools of + the country. + + "I simply claim to have established the fact that there is a + beautiful lake above and beyond Itasca--wider and deeper than that + lake--with woodland shores--with three constantly flowing streams + for its feeders--and in every way worthy of the position it + occupies as the primal reservoir or TRUE SOURCE of the Father of + Waters. + + "Willard Glazier. + Syracuse, New York, December, 1886." + + * * * * * + +A letter from Pearce Giles, of Camden, New Jersey, who was identified +with the GLAZIER expedition from its inception to its close: + + + "_To the Editor--Boston Herald_: + + "In 1832 Henry Rowe Schoolcraft led an expedition through the wilds + of Northern Minnesota and discovered what he believed to be the + source of the Mississippi. Being at a loss for an appropriate name + to bestow upon the lake which constituted this supposed source, so + the story goes, he asked a companion what were the Latin words + signifying 'true head,' and received in reply '_veritas caput_.' + This was rather a ponderous name to give a comparatively small body + of water, even though the Father of Waters here took his first + start in the world. The explorer, therefore, conceived the idea of + uniting the last two syllables of the first word with the first + syllable of the second, thus, by a novel mode of orthography, + forming a name which might easily pass for one of Indian + origin--_Itasca_. A person versed in orthographical science would + probably perceive at once that the name did not belong to the same + family of harsh Indian appellations which have affixed themselves + permanently to many towns and rivers in Wisconsin and Minnesota, + but was more allied to the softer language of southern Indian + nations. But it has now been discovered that Lake Itasca is not + _veritas caput_; and LAKE GLAZIER, discovered in July, 1881, by + Captain Willard Glazier, must be regarded by all future generations + as the true head of the Mississippi. + + "The Mississippi, on its first stages, flows in a northerly + direction, the whole system of small lakes which contribute to it + being surrounded on the north and west by an amphitheatre of hills. + LAKE GLAZIER lies above and beyond Lake Itasca, and its waters have + an elevation of probably seven feet above that lake, being + connected therewith by a small, swift stream. Lake Itasca is + composed of three arms, extending in the form of a trefoil, having + a length of five miles and an average width of about one mile. The + upper, or southern end of its middle arm apparently terminates in a + swamp, which might easily have deceived any one not familiar with + the country. But Chenowagesic, Captain Glazier's Indian guide, who + had for years used the region of these lakes for his + hunting-ground, readily made his way through the reeds and rushes + at the mouth of the connecting stream. LAKE GLAZIER at its outlet + presents another barricade of reeds, through which the party made + their way in their canoes. + + "LAKE GLAZIER is about two miles in length by a mile and a half in + breadth. Its shores, instead of being low and marshy, as are those + of many of the neighboring lakes, present finely wooded slopes and + surround the lake in what would have been the shape of a perfect + oval, had not a bold, rocky promontory indented its southern end, + and given to it the outline of a heart. On the point of this + promontory is a spring from which flows ice-cold water. The waters + of the lake are exceedingly clear and pure, proceeding from + springs, some of them in the bottom of the lake itself, and the + others at a greater or less distance from its shores. + + "LAKE GLAZIER has three small feeders, one of them named Eagle + Creek, entering it near its outlet, and taking its rise a mile or + so farther south, in a small pond or lakelet, upon which Captain + Glazier bestowed the name of 'Alice,' after his daughter. Eagle + Creek runs nearly parallel with the western shore of the lake, a + little distance from it. Two streams, two or three miles in length, + flow northward into LAKE GLAZIER at its southern extremity on + either side of the indenting promontory. Excelsior Creek, so named + because it represents the very highest water of the Mississippi, is + the longer of these. Deer Creek, to the eastward, and rising a + little nearer the lake, has been so named for the reason that + numbers of deer were seen in its vicinity. + + "LAKE GLAZIER is thus supplied by three feeders, Eagle, Excelsior + and Deer Creeks, now named in the order of their importance, and as + uniting these waters in one common reservoir, this lake is + undoubtedly entitled to be regarded as the _veritas caput_--the + true head of the Mississippi. + + "Pearce Giles. + + "Boston, August 6, 1886." + + * * * * * + +We insert here an interesting letter from Paul Beaulieu, Interpreter to +the United States Indian Agency, White Earth, Minnesota. Mr. Beaulieu is +a very intelligent half-breed, about sixty years of age, and has lived +nearly all his life in the neighborhood of the headwaters of the +Mississippi. His testimony, therefore, upon a subject with which he must +necessarily be familiar, will have due weight with the inquiring reader: + + + "U. S. Indian Service, + + "_White Earth Agency, Minnesota_, + + "May 25, 1884. + + "_Dear Sir_:--I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your + letter of the sixteenth instant. In reply, I would respectfully + state that according to the ideas of the people of this section of + country, for a score of years past, in alluding to Lake Itasca, + which is known only as Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of this + country, was never by them considered as the head or source of the + Father of Running Waters, or May-see-see-be, as it is by them + named. I have received a map showing the route of exploration of + Captain Willard Glazier in 1881, and being well acquainted with his + chief guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the section of country + explored by Captain Glazier his home for many years in the past, + and who has proved the truth of his often repeated assertion, when + maps were shown him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca would in + time change a feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world that + Lake Itasca cannot longer maintain its claim as being the fountain + head of Ke-chee-see-be, or Great River, which is called + May-see-see-be, by the Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain + Glazier's guide, Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, + is correct; and it is plain to us who know the lay of this whole + country (I mean by _us_, the Chippewa tribe in particular, also the + recent explorers for pine) that LAKE GLAZIER is located at the + right place, and is the last lake on the longest stream of the + several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi. + + "With respect, yours truly, + + "Paul Beaulieu, + + "_U. S. Indian Interpreter_." + + * * * * * + +An eastern correspondent addressed the following communication to the +Saint Paul _Dispatch_, in which he claims that the discovery of the +true source of the Mississippi should be credited to Captain Glazier: + + + "_To the Editor--Saint Paul Dispatch_: + + "Having been a resident of Minnesota in 1855, I wish to say a word + about Captain Glazier and his discovery. Minnesota, at the time of + my residence there, was thinly settled. Minneapolis and Saint + Anthony were both straggling villages. Saint Paul could boast of + something like 10,000 population. The nearest railroad point to the + latter city was one hundred and thirty miles distant. In winter + Burbank's Northwestern Express carried the mails and the very few + passengers that could muster courage to make the toilsome journey; + and well do I remember my trip over this route. I know that, at + that time, there was a question with the Sioux, Chippewas and many + pioneers as to Lake Itasca being the source of the Great River. + There was a settled opinion that something would be found beyond + that would eventually prove to be the source of that stream. I + believe Captain Glazier to have been actuated by a desire to + establish the truth of this problem. Interested parties may seek to + withhold from him his rightful due as a discoverer, but + notwithstanding these attempts, in some schools in this region, + LAKE GLAZIER is taught as the true source of the Mississippi. To + attempt to discredit one who took front rank for the preservation + of the Union, and who suffered in many rebel prisons, is altogether + unworthy of the parties who are making themselves conspicuous in + the matter. + + "J. C. Crane. + + "West Millbury, Massachusetts, January, 1887." + + * * * * * + +Letter from Mr. John Lovell, geographer and historian, and one of the +leading educational publishers of the Dominion of Canada: + + + "Captain Willard Glazier: + + "_Dear Sir_:--I owe you an apology for not having earlier + acknowledged your courtesy in sending me a copy of your remarkably + interesting work 'Down the Great River.' Owing to illness and a + variety of calls on my time, I had not an opportunity ere this of + finishing the reading of it. I have no hesitation in saying that it + is most interesting and instructive, especially where you so ably + summarize the results of former expeditions, and where you describe + in animated language the aim, course, and outcome of your own + explorations. You have had an experience which has fallen to the + lot of few travellers, and, in certifying the source of the Father + of Waters, have rendered a great service to the cause of + geographical discovery. The account of your voyage from the newly + discovered Source to the Gulf of Mexico gave me much pleasure and + information. The patience and endurance of the brave fellows who + were with you, considering the distance, in canoes, is worthy of + praise. Your own able management of the expedition is worthy of all + commendation and of substantial and immediate thanks from the good + men of your own wonderful country. + + "Again I sincerely thank you for your handsome and most acceptable + present. + + "With sincere respect, I remain, dear sir, + + "Yours faithfully, + + "John Lovell. + + "Montreal, October 17, 1887." + + +The following letter will speak for itself. Mr. Gus. H. Beaulieu, of +White Earth, Minnesota, Deputy United States Marshal for the district, +is an educated half-breed, and cousin of Paul Beaulieu. His home is on +the Chippewa Indian Reservation, within sixty miles of the source of the +Mississippi. In this letter he presents the Indian theory as to the +comparative volume of water in the two lakes--GLAZIER and Itasca: + + + "Captain Willard Glazier: + + "_Dear Sir_:--I have been somewhat interested in your discussion + regarding the source of the Mississippi. Even had you never + proclaimed to the world your discoveries, from information received + by me from Indians and old mixed-blood Indian voyageurs, there + would have always been a doubt existing with me as to whether + Itasca was the head of the Mississippi. + + "Henry Beaulieu, a brother of Paul Beaulieu, always maintained that + LAKE GLAZIER was the true source of the Mississippi. I remember + that, after his return from Itasca with Mr. Chambers of the New + York _Herald_, I think in 1872, he said that Winnibegoshish or Cass + Lake might as well be called the source of the Mississippi as + Itasca. Other mixed-blood have repeatedly stated the same thing. I + mention this to show you what the general opinion is among Indians + and those of mixed blood. + + "Chenowagesic's theory concerning the head of the Mississippi is + this: That while Itasca presents a larger surface than LAKE + GLAZIER, it does not contain as much water as the latter. He + arrives at this conclusion from the fact that Itasca freezes over + two or three weeks before LAKE GLAZIER. This, he says, is a sure + sign that the latter lake is the deeper of the two, and contains + more water. His arguments in favor of LAKE GLAZIER are rather + novel, and, as a matter of course, are taken from an Indian's + standpoint. + + "Yours truly, + + "Gus. H. Beaulieu. + + "White Earth, Minnesota, December 17, 1887." + + + + +IV. PUBLIC OPINION IN MINNESOTA. + + +The evidence here presented in support of LAKE GLAZIER, is, in our +judgment, most conclusive; we may add, overwhelming. Many of the most +prominent citizens of the State in which the Great River takes its rise +volunteer their endorsement of a claim, of the merits of which, they +must necessarily be better informed than persons living at a remote +distance from the head of the river. State authorities, including the +Governor and his staff; senators and representatives, many of whom have +resided from twenty to forty years in Minnesota; pioneers, clergymen, +and school-teachers, with many of the leading citizens; editors, +school-superintendents, professional men, and others, strongly affirm +that Lake Itasca is not the source of the Mississippi, but that the lake +to the south of it, definitely located by Captain Glazier, is the primal +reservoir or _true source_ of the Father of Waters. These witnesses, +moreover, unequivocally assert that the credit of the discovery should +be awarded to the man who made it, notwithstanding the groundless +opposition of a few cavillers who have never themselves visited within +many hundred miles a region they affect to be so marvelously familiar +with. + + + _From His Excellency, A. R. McGill, Governor of Minnesota_: + + "Captain Glazier's claim to be the discoverer of the true source of + the Mississippi seems reasonable, to say the least. I have been a + resident of Minnesota twenty-six years, and never until Captain + Glazier's expedition, heard the claim of Itasca being the source of + the Great River seriously questioned." + + * * * * * + + _From Hon. Horace Austin, Ex-Governor_: + + "I think that it would be a very proper thing to do under the + circumstances that Captain Glazier's services should be recognized + by the passage of a bill by the Legislature giving his name to the + lake which is the real source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From Hon. W. H. Gale, Ex-Lieutenant-Governor, Winona_: + + "I have been a resident of Minnesota for more than twenty-eight + years, and I believe it was the generally accepted opinion of the + people of this State that Lake Itasca was the source of the + Mississippi River, until after the expedition of Captain Willard + Glazier, and his publication to the world that another lake south + of Lake Itasca was the true source, to which lake has been given + the name of LAKE GLAZIER. This is now generally recognized as the + _true source_ and head of the Mississippi, and Captain Glazier as + the man who first made known that fact to the world." + + * * * * * + + _From F. W. Seeley, Adjutant-General_. + + "I desire to say, in justice to Captain Glazier, that, having been + a resident of Minnesota for twenty-five years, and quite familiar + with the geography of the State, it is my belief that he was the + first to discover the true source of the Mississippi River and + publish it to the world." + + * * * * * + + _From Moses E. Clapp, Attorney-General:_ + + "From such information as I have on the subject, I am convinced + that the actual source of the Mississippi had not been recognized + prior to the published accounts of the explorations of Captain + Willard Glazier." + + * * * * * + + _From H. W. Childs, Assistant Attorney-General:_ + + "There is, in my opinion, no reason or ground for disputing Captain + Glazier's claim to have located the body of water now undoubtedly + regarded as the source of the Mississippi River, and appropriately + named LAKE GLAZIER." + + * * * * * + + _From J. K. Moore, Private Secretary to Governor McGill:_ + + "From the evidence, it seems clear to me that the actual source of + the Mississippi River had never been recognized until Captain + Glazier made its discovery in 1881." + + * * * * * + + _From Gus. H. Beaulieu, Deputy U. S. Marshal, + District of Minnesota:_ + + "Having been born and raised in the State of Minnesota, and a + resident of White Earth Indian Reservation, and being familiar with + the Indian traditions, I certify that Itasca Lake had never been + considered the source of the Mississippi by the best informed + Chippewa Indians. Although I had never seen any published maps to + the contrary, prior to the expedition of Captain Glazier in 1881, + from the best information I have among the Indians, I now regard + LAKE GLAZIER as the true source of the Mississippi River. I regard + his chief guide, Chenowagesic, as the best authority among the + Indians regarding the section of country about the headwaters of + the Mississippi, and consider him thoroughly reliable." + + * * * * * + + _From Ed. W. S. Tingle, St. Paul Globe:_ + + "After a study of the literature of the subject, I am convinced + that the lake to which the name of GLAZIER was given by the Glazier + exploring expedition is undoubtedly the true source of the + Mississippi, and that Captain Glazier was the first to call general + public attention to the fact." + + * * * * * + + _From Rev. W. T. Chase, Pastor First Baptist Church, Minneapolis:_ + + "There seems no reasonable doubt that the actual source of the + Mississippi had never been recognized until Captain Willard Glazier + made its discovery in 1881. Captain Glazier merits the gratitude of + every citizen of the United States who is interested in knowing all + that is knowable about the great Father of Waters." + + * * * * * + + _From Ex-Mayor Pillsbury, Minneapolis:_ + + "From the best information I have been able to obtain, I am + satisfied that Captain Willard Glazier was the first person that + discovered the true source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From Rev. J. L. Pitner, Pastor Methodist Episcopal Church, Minneapolis:_ + + "From the evidence I have examined, I am convinced that the real + source of the Mississippi was not known prior to 1881. I am quite + sure the claims of LAKE GLAZIER are not ill-founded, and that in + its deep, cool bosom the Great River takes its rise." + + * * * * * + + _From John E. Bradley, Superintendent Public Schools, Minneapolis:_ + + "From such examination as I have been able to give to the problem + of the _true source_ of the Mississippi, it seems to be + satisfactorily established that LAKE GLAZIER is to be so regarded." + + * * * * * + + _From Hon. Samuel E. Adams, + Member of the Minnesota Historical Society, Monticello:_ + + "I have no doubt of the correctness of Captain Glazier's statement + that he discovered the new source of the Mississippi now bearing + his name." + + * * * * * + + _From John H. Elliott, Secretary Y. M. C. A., Minneapolis:_ + + "I have no hesitation in stating that I believe LAKE GLAZIER to be + the real source of the Mississippi River, and that Captain + Glazier's claims are entitled to respectful and grateful + recognition." + + * * * * * + + _From J. S. McLain, Evening Journal, Minneapolis:_ + + "I have no reason to question the claim of Captain Glazier to have + been the first to correctly map the section of country about the + source of the Mississippi, or that the body of water which bears + his name is the true source of the Great River." + + _From Albert Shaw, Minneapolis Tribune:_ + + "Unquestionably Captain Glazier may claim the credit of having + called public attention to the fact that there is a lake beyond + Lake Itasca which is more strictly to be considered as the source + of the Mississippi. That the lake will always be called LAKE + GLAZIER, and that it will henceforth be spoken of everywhere as the + source of the Great River, I have no doubt; nor do I doubt the + propriety of the name." + + * * * * * + + _From Judge John P. Rea, Commander-in-Chief G.A.R., Minneapolis:_ + + "I have resided in Minnesota eleven years, and always supposed that + Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I never heard the + fact questioned until within the past four or five years. From all + the evidence I have upon the subject, I am satisfied that LAKE + GLAZIER is the true source." + + * * * * * + + _From G. M. Wing, Secretary + North-West Indian Commission, Minneapolis:_ + + "Concerning the real source of the Mississippi, I would say that + the lake which Captain Willard Glazier has located, and which he + claims to be the source, is no doubt more properly the true source + of this Great River than Lake Itasca. There is no doubt whatever in + my mind but that Captain Glazier was the first person to discover + that fact, and make the same known to the world; and that fact + alone, though it might have been visited before, should entitle him + to the honor of naming the same. I have been over the route + traversed by Captain Glazier and party, and find that the map which + he has published is a correct delineation of that section." + + * * * * * + + _From Hon. J. G. Lawrence, Ex-Senator, Wabasha:_ + + "I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of + having discovered the true source of the Mississippi in a lake + above Lake Itasca, and now named LAKE GLAZIER." + + * * * * * + + _From Judge L. A. Evans, Ex-Mayor, Saint Cloud_ + + "First Mayor of Saint Cloud, and have served six terms as such. + Have resided in Saint Cloud for thirty years. I believe that LAKE + GLAZIER is the true source of the Mississippi River, and this is + the opinion of the majority of the people residing in this part of + the State." + + * * * * * + +_From Will E. Haskell, President and Managing Editor, Minneapolis Tribune:_ + + "There can be no longer any doubt, when the question is carefully + considered, that the credit of discovering the true source of the + Mississippi belongs to Captain Willard Glazier. Captain Glazier's + discovery has now become an accepted geographical fact, and future + generations of school-boys will speak knowingly of LAKE GLAZIER, as + we did in our youth of Itasca." + + * * * * * + + _From J. O. Simmons, Little Falls._ + + "Have been a resident of Little Falls for the past twenty-nine + years; County Attorney and justice of the peace for several years; + would state that I am personally acquainted with the half-breed + Indian interpreter, Paul Beaulieu. Have known him since June, 1857, + and know him to be a person of intelligence, great experience, and + personal knowledge of the northern portion of Minnesota, which up + to very recently has been a vast wilderness occupied only by the + Chippewas. Have often conversed with him relative to the country + north of us, and speaking of the Mississippi, have heard him say + that Lake Itasca was not the fountain head; that there was a stream + emptying its waters into Itasca from a lake a short distance above + the latter, and which, in his opinion, was the true source. Since + Captain Glazier's exploration, I accept the lake bearing his name + as the true source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From Rev. Andrew D. Stowe, Rector, Trinity Church, Anoka:_ + + "This is to certify that from the testimony of Indians and + Half-breeds living at White Earth Agency, Minnesota, during my + residence there of two years, I am persuaded that LAKE GLAZIER, + instead of Itasca, is the real source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From D. Sinclair, Winona:_ + + "In the autumn of 1862 I spent several weeks in that portion of + Northern Minnesota, extending from Crow Wing to Leech Lake, and the + country about Red Lake, in company with Paul Beaulieu, the + well-known Indian guide and interpreter. During a conversation as + to the source of the Mississippi, Beaulieu informed me that Lake + Itasca was not the real source of that river, but that a smaller + lake, located a short distance south of Itasca, was entitled to + that distinction. After investigating the matter recently, I have + no doubt of the genuineness of Captain Glazier's claim to be the + person who first publicly established the fact that the lake which + now bears his name is the true source of the Mississippi River." + + * * * * * + + _From William A. Spencer, Clerk + United States District Court, Saint Paul:_ + + "I have resided in Minnesota upwards of thirty years, and until + recently have always thought that Lake Itasca was the source of the + Mississippi; but after an examination of the claim of Captain + Glazier to be the discoverer of the true source, I am satisfied his + claim is well founded." + + * * * * * + + _From O. C. Chase, Chairman County Commissioners, Otter-Tail County:_ + + "From information received, I am fully satisfied that Captain + Glazier was the first person to publicly announce the true source + of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From John J. Ankeny, Postmaster, Minneapolis:_ + + "From the best information I can obtain, I am persuaded that the + source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the + published accounts of exploration by Captain Willard Glazier in + 1881. I think, therefore, he is entitled to the credit of the + discovery." + + * * * * * + + _From P. P. Swenson, Sheriff, Hennepin County:_ + + "After a residence of thirty-two years in the State of Minnesota, + until recently I have always supposed that Lake Itasca was the + source of the Mississippi River. I am now well informed of its true + source being LAKE GLAZIER, having personally traversed that section + of the State." + + * * * * * + + _From Freeman E. Kreck, Postmaster, Aitkin:_ + + "I have been a resident of Aitkin County since 1881; have been + County Auditor for past two years, and for a time proprietor and + editor of the _Aitkin Age_. Since Captain Glazier's explorations I + do not hesitate to say that I believe LAKE GLAZIER to be the true + primal reservoir of the Mississippi, and I think I voice the + sentiment of the majority of the residents of this section." + + * * * * * + + _From A. Y. Merrill, County Attorney, Aitkin:_ + + "I believe that the lake claimed to have been located by Captain + Glazier is the real source of the Mississippi River." + + * * * * * + + _From J. W. Wakefield, Aitkin:_ + + "Resident of Minnesota for thirty years. Personally acquainted with + Chenowagesic. Indian trader more than fifteen years. Thoroughly + familiar with the Chippewa language. I recognize LAKE GLAZIER as + the true source of the Mississippi River." + + * * * * * + + _From Lyman P. White, Ex-Mayor, Brainerd:_ + + "I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1870. Built the first + house in Brainerd. Have had charge of the town site for the Lake + Superior and Puget Sound Company for sixteen years. I met Captain + Glazier on his Mississippi trip, and fully endorse his claim to + have discovered the true source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From W. W. Hartley, Brainerd:_ + + "Have been a resident of Brainerd for the past fifteen years. + Editor and publisher of the _Tribune_ from 1875 to 1881, and + postmaster from 1879 to 1886. Met Captain Glazier and his party + here in 1881, both _en route_ to the source of the Mississippi + River, and on their return voyage by canoes to its mouth. Have no + recollection of ever having heard any other than Lake Itasca + claimed to be the source of the Mississippi prior to the Captain's + expedition. LAKE GLAZIER has since been accepted and is believed to + be its source." + + * * * * * + + _From J. H. Koop, Postmaster, Brainerd:_ + + "Have been a resident of this State for sixteen years. Met Captain + Glazier at the time he made his expedition of discovery to the + source of the Mississippi, and I recognize the lake bearing his + name as its true source." + + * * * * * + + _From N. H. Ingersoll, Editor, Brainerd Dispatch:_ + + "I fully endorse the statement that Captain Glazier was the first + to proclaim to the world the _true source_ of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From Rev. Fletcher J. Hawley, D. D., Rector of + St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Brainerd:_ + + "I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1880, and have not heard + any one question the truth of Captain Glazier's claim to have + discovered the true source of the Mississippi to be in LAKE + GLAZIER." + + * * * * * + + _From John F. Peterson, Register of Deeds, Minneapolis:_ + + "I have resided in Minnesota for the past eighteen years, and fully + believe that LAKE GLAZIER is the true source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From C. P. De Laithe, Superintendent of Schools, Aitkin County:_ + + "I recognize LAKE GLAZIER as the source of the Mississippi River. + Have resided in Aitkin for several years." + + * * * * * + + _From J. H. Hallett, Brainerd:_ + + "I recognize the lake discovered by Captain Glazier as the real + source of the Mississippi. Have been an Indian trader for the past + fifteen years." + + * * * * * + + _From Hon. N. Richardson, Little Falls, + Judge of Probate of Morrison County:_ + + "I have resided on the banks of the Mississippi for thirty-one + years. Met Captain Glazier at Little Falls with his exploring + party, that visited the headwaters of this river in the summer of + 1881. From information derived from sources that I consider + reliable, I regard LAKE GLAZIER as the true source of the Great + River. Have been a member of the Minnesota Legislature for three + terms." + + * * * * * + + _From O. L. Clyde, First Lieutenant, National Guard, Little Falls:_ + + "I have been a resident of Northern Minnesota for twenty years, and + always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. + I never heard any thing to the contrary until the year 1881, when + Captain Glazier explored the Upper Mississippi, and made his report + of the same. I now recognize LAKE GLAZIER as the true source of the + Great River." + + * * * * * + + _From Moses La Fond, Little Falls:_ + + "LAKE GLAZIER is now considered the true source of the Mississippi. + I am one of the old pioneers of this State, having resided in the + northern section for over thirty-two years, and was a member of the + Legislature in 1874." + + * * * * * + + _From R. Cronk, of the Government Survey, Sauk Rapids:_ + + "This is to certify that I was compass-man on the survey of + township 143 north, range 36 west of the 5th principal meridian, + which embraces Itasca Lake, (the Indian name of which I understood + to be _Omushkos_ or Elk Lake,) and hereby affirm that LAKE GLAZIER + is the only well-defined body of water emptying into Lake Itasca, + and in my opinion is the true source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From Hon. T. G. Healey, Ex-State Senator, Monticello:_ + + "Have resided in Monticello since 1856. I regard LAKE GLAZIER as + the true source of the Mississippi River, and it is now so regarded + by the people living in this section of Minnesota." + + * * * * * + + _From William Tubbs, Postmaster and Ex-County Auditor, Monticello:_ + + "Have resided in Minnesota twenty-nine years. LAKE GLAZIER is + regarded by the people generally of this section as the true source + of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From W. J. Brown, Principal of the High School, Monticello:_ + + "I consider LAKE GLAZIER to be the true source of the Mississippi, + and know of no other. I teach the same in the public schools of + this place, as also do my assistants." + + * * * * * + + _From Commander A. H. Fitch, J. S. Cady Post, G. A. R., + Department Minnesota; Anoka:_ + + "I am fully convinced that the body of water, known as LAKE GLAZIER + since 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and not Lake + Itasca." + + * * * * * + + _From J. M. Tucker, M. D., Hastings:_ + + "I believe Captain Glazier's claim to being the discoverer of the + real source of the Mississippi is _just_, and have never heard it + questioned. It must stand as one of the facts of history." + + * * * * * + + _From Daniel O'Brien, Police Justice, Hastings:_ + + "I am satisfied that the lake to the south of Itasca, located by + Glazier, in 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and that + Captain Glazier is entitled to whatever credit there is in the + discovery." + + * * * * * + + _From J. R. Lambert, Ex-Mayor, Hastings:_ + + "It has been a generally accepted fact that Lake Itasca was the + source of the Mississippi River, and like many others who have + preceded me in giving testimonials in favor of Captain Willard + Glazier's claim as the discoverer of a body of water now known + quite generally as LAKE GLAZIER, and so represented in many of our + standard geographical works, I cheerfully admit that Captain + Glazier is entitled to credit as the discoverer." + + * * * * * + + _From S. Westerson, Chairman, Board of County Commissioners, Hastings:_ + + "It seems to be clearly proven that there is a lake--now called + LAKE GLAZIER--which is the true source of the Mississippi, + discovered by Captain Willard Glazier in the year 1881, and that + said Captain Glazier was the first man to make it public. The + honor, therefore, in my estimation, is due to him." + + * * * * * + + _From B. B. Herbert, Editor, The Republican, Red Wing:_ + + "After a careful examination of the claim made for and against the + reputed discovery of the head of the Mississippi, by Captain + Willard Glazier, I am convinced that he was the first to question + the received statement that Lake Itasca was its source; and first + to connect the lake, which some respectable geographers have + called by his name, with the Mississippi as its source. Having + lived in Minnesota, on the banks of the Mississippi, for nearly + thirty years, had any other person claimed to have discovered any + other source than Lake Itasca, I should have been informed + thereof." + + * * * * * + + _From W. W. DeKay, Red Wing:_ + + "From such information as I have upon the subject, I regard the + lake located by Captain Glazier, to the south of Itasca, as the + true source of the Mississippi. I have resided in Minnesota for + thirty-three years." + + * * * * * + + _From William Moore, Superintendent of Schools, Lake City:_ + + "Knowing the facts in regard to Captain Glazier's discovery of the + true source of the Mississippi, as brought out by public + discussion, I am convinced that he is justly entitled to be + considered the discoverer of the source of the Mississippi River." + + * * * * * + + _From George C. Stout, Mayor, Lake City:_ + + "I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the + honor of first discovery of the true source of the Mississippi + River." + + * * * * * + + _From D. O. Irwin, Postmaster, Lake City:_ + + "I am convinced that the actual source of the Mississippi had not + been recognized before the published account of explorations by + Captain Glazier; and I regard LAKE GLAZIER as the true source of + the Great River." + + * * * * * + + _From H. L. Smith, Editor and Proprietor of the Graphic, Lake City:_ + + "I am fully convinced that LAKE GLAZIER is the real source of the + Father of Waters. Have resided in Minnesota seventeen years." + + * * * * * + + _From F. J. Collins, Mayor of Wabasha:_ + + "I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the + credit of having discovered the true source of the Mississippi + River. I have resided in Minnesota thirty-one years." + + * * * * * + + _From Hon. James G. Lawrence, Ex-State Senator, Wabasha:_ + + "I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of + discovering the true source of the Mississippi, in a lake above + Lake Itasca, now named after him, LAKE GLAZIER." + + * * * * * + + _From D. L. Dawley, Principal of Schools, Wabasha:_ + + "I believe Captain Glazier to be the real discoverer of the true + source of the Mississippi River." + + * * * * * + + _From S. B. Sheardown, M. D., Winona:_ + + "I believe that Captain Glazier is entitled to the credit of + discovering the real source of the Mississippi River. I have been a + resident of Minnesota over thirty-one years." + + * * * * * + + _From Judge A. F. Storey, St. Vincent:_ + + "I have no hesitancy in saying that there can be no question, but, + that LAKE GLAZIER is the true and primal source of the Mississippi + River." + + * * * * * + + _From James A. Thompson, Postmaster, Leech Lake (the nearest + post-office to the source of the Mississippi):_ + + "I am of opinion that LAKE GLAZIER is the source of the + Mississippi. I have talked on this subject with some of the Indians + who accompanied Captain Glazier on his exploring expedition in + 1881, and they all say it is the last lake; that they went all the + way in their canoes, and could go no further. It is the general + belief here that LAKE GLAZIER is the true source." + + * * * * * + + _From Paul Beaulieu, United States Interpreter, White Earth Indian + Agency:_ + + "I would respectfully state that according to the ideas of the + people of this section of country, for scores of years past, in + alluding to Lake Itasca, _which is known only as Elk Lake by the + original inhabitants of this part of the country_, was never by + them considered as the head or source of the Father of Running + Waters, or May-see-see-be, as it is by them named. I received a map + showing the route of exploration of Captain Willard Glazier, 1881, + and being well acquainted with his chief guide, Chenowagesic, who + has made the section of country explored by Captain Glazier his + home for many years in the past, and who has proved the truth of + his often repeated assertion, when maps were shown him, that a + smaller lake above Lake Itasca would in time change the feature of + those maps, and proclaim to the world that Lake Itasca cannot any + longer maintain its claim as being the fountain head of + Ke-chee-see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be, by + the Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide, + Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, is correct; and + it is plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean, + by _us_, the Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent + explorers for pine) that LAKE GLAZIER is located at the right + place, and is the last lake on the longest stream of the several + rivers at the head of the great Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + + + +V. RECOGNITION. + + +The discovery and final location of the source of the Great River of the +North American Continent by Captain Glazier has received general +recognition in this country and in Europe, and our aim to place before +the reader of this volume, material to assist him in forming his +judgment on the validity of the author's claim, would not be attained if +we omitted to include in these _addenda_ the following evidence, the +nature and weight of which we think should carry conviction to the mind +of every impartial critic. + +A report of the discovery was duly sent to Hon. Charles P. Daly, +President of the American Geographical Society, New York, and by him +forwarded to the Editor of the _New York Herald_, and published by that +paper, accompanied by a map of the region explored, showing the true +source of the Mississippi. + +A report was also sent to the Royal Geographical Society, London, +England, and the following courteous reply received: + + + "Royal Geographical Society, + + "_London_, January 12, 1885. + + "Captain Willard Glazier, New York, U. S. A. + + "_Dear Sir:_--We owe you an apology for delaying so long + communicating with you on the subject of your interesting letter + and its accompanying map; a delay caused by the long summer + vacation of our council, which commenced a little before the + arrival of your letter. + + "I am happy to be able to send you a copy of the January number of + the Proceedings of our Society, containing your letter and map, and + trust you will find no error has crept in. + + "Your discovery was considered a distinct addition to our knowledge + of the geography of the Mississippi basin, and well worthy of + publication by the Society, and I am directed to thank you for + having communicated this brief account of it to us. + + "Your obedient servant, + + "H. W. Bates, + + "_Assistant Secretary and Editor_." + + * * * * * + +George W. Melville, the famed Arctic Explorer, writes: + + + "_Philadelphia, Pennsylvania_ + + "February 5, 1885. + + "Captain Willard Glazier: + + "Dear Sir:--Your very interesting paper and map of the discovery + of the source of the Mississippi came to hand this morning. Having + but a single number of your paper I can form but an inadequate idea + of your labor and patience, except by a look at your map, which is + a very good one, and shows an immense amount of labor; in fact I am + astonished at the amount of work done in so short a space of time + as is shown on your track chart. + + "I am gratified at being made the recipient of your favor; and with + sentiments of the highest esteem and regard for a worthy brother in + the world of science, + + "I am, dear sir, very respectfully, + + "George W. Melville, + + "_Chief Engineer, U. S. Navy_." + + * * * * * + + _Geographers and Educational Publishers._ + +Many of the geographers and educational publishers of the country have +not only made the necessary changes in their maps of Minnesota, but have +expressed their recognition and acceptance of the GLAZIER discovery in +letters addressed to friends of the Captain and others interested in +arriving at the truth of this important question. Among these may be +mentioned: + +Rand, McNally & Company, George F. Cram, and George H. Benedict & +Company, Chicago; Matthews, Northrup & Company, Buffalo; A. S. Barnes & +Company, New York and Chicago; University Publishing Company, New York; +Charles Lubrecht, New York; M. Dripps, New York; W. & A. K. Johnston, +Geographers to the Queen, Edinburgh, Scotland; MacMillan & Company, +London and New York; Nelson & Sons, New York and Edinburgh, Scotland; +Gaylord Watson, P. O'Shea and George H. Adams & Company, New York; W. M. +Bradley & Brother, Philadelphia; School Supply Company, John A. Boyle, +Boston; J. K. Gill & Company, Portland, Oregon; John Lovell & Son, +Montreal, Canada; Map and School Supply Company, Toronto, Canada; F. A. +Brockhaus, Leipsic; A. Hartleben, Wein, Austria; and many others. + +The following extracts are from BARNES' COMPLETE GEOGRAPHY by the +eminent geographer, Professor James Monteith: + + + _Page 4. "Record of Recent Discoveries and Events._ + + "The source of the Mississippi River is LAKE GLAZIER, a small lake + from which water flows into Lake Itasca, which until recently was + thought to be its source." + + * * * * * + + _Page 73. "North Central States (Western Section)._ + + "Recent surveys have shown that LAKE GLAZIER is about seven feet + higher than Lake Itasca, into which the former discharges its + water; and it is now recognized as the source of the Mississippi + River." + + _"Maury's Manual of Geography, University Publishing Company, New York:_ + + "Page 56. Minnesota is crossed by the ridge or 'Height of Land' + which separates the Valley of the Mississippi from the northern + slope of the Great Central Plain. On this elevation, 1,600 feet + above the sea, both the Mississippi and the Red River of the North + take their rise, the one flowing south and the other north. The + crest of the 'Height of Land' is crowned with lakes of clear water. + LAKE GLAZIER, one of these, is the source of the Mississippi...." + + * * * * * + + _From Herr F. A. Brockhaus, Geographer and Publisher of Leipsic, Germany:_ + + "I shall not fail to recognize and call public attention to your + important discovery of the True Head of your Great River." + + * * * * * + + _From Professor J. W. Redway, of Philadelphia, a well-known + geographer and scientist:_ + + "_Philadelphia_, September 9, 1887. + + "Captain Willard Glazier: + + "_My Dear Sir:_-- ... You will have the satisfaction of knowing + that by your exertions and enterprise an error of more than fifty + years standing has been made apparent. The world owes you a debt + for determining an important question in geography. + + "Sincerely yours, + + "J. W. Redway." + + * * * * * + + _From the Messrs. Harper & Brothers, New York:_ + + "Recent exploration and survey establish the fact that Lake Glazier + has the best claim to the distinction of standing at the head of + the Father of Waters. School Geographies generally are being + corrected to show it." + + * * * * * + + _From Rand, McNally & Company, Map-makers and Publishers, Chicago:_ + + "As to the source of the Mississippi, we gave it considerable + attention in preparing our new map of Minnesota, and finally fixed + it as LAKE GLAZIER. This, we consider, has the best claim." + + * * * * * + + _From George F. Cram, Map and Atlas Publisher, Chicago:_ + + "I mail you to-day a copy of the corrected map of Minnesota, + showing LAKE GLAZIER as the source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From Matthews, Northrup & Company, Art Printers, Buffalo, New York:_ + + "We regard LAKE GLAZIER as the true source of the Mississippi, and + are so showing it on all maps, etc., issued by us." + + * * * * * + + _From Messrs. Cowperthwait & Company, Philadelphia._ + + "We have added LAKE GLAZIER to our School Maps as the source of the + Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From E. A. Lawrence, University Publishing Company, New York:_ + + "We think LAKE GLAZIER is important enough to outrank Itasca as the + source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From W. M. Bradley & Brother, Philadelphia:_ + + "LAKE GLAZIER appears on our large Atlas of the World, and on + Mitchell's Atlas, as the true source of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _From John Lovell & Son, Educational Publishers, Montreal:_ + + "The collection of testimonials from leading citizens of Minnesota, + and others, tells convincingly in Captain Glazier's favor." + + * * * * * + + _From MacMillan & Company, London and New York:_ + + "Pray accept our very cordial thanks for your courtesy in sending + us the map of the true source of the Mississippi. We are forwarding + it on to our London house, who will gladly avail themselves of the + information it conveys." + + * * * * * + + _From Gaylord Watson, Map and Chart Publisher, New York:_ + + "I shall show LAKE GLAZIER as the source of the Mississippi on my + maps." + + * * * * * + +_From P. O'Shea, Catholic Publisher, New York:_ + + "I have come to the conclusion that LAKE GLAZIER is the true source + of the Mississippi, and intend to give it as the source in the new + editions of my geographies." + + * * * * * + + _From Geo. H. Adams & Son, Map Publishers, New York:_ + + "We recognize LAKE GLAZIER as the True Source of the Mississippi + River, and believe that Captain Glazier's claim to its discovery is + now admitted by all the leading Map Publishers of the country." + + * * * * * + + _From the Map and School Supply Company, Toronto:_ + + "We consider LAKE GLAZIER the source of the Mississippi River, and + are having it appear on all our latest maps as such." + + * * * * * + + _From Captain A. N. Husted, Professor of Mathematics, + State Normal School, Albany, New York:_ + + "Captain Willard Glazier: + + "_My Dear Sir:_--I have been much interested in your trip to the + beginning of the Father of Waters, and feel that you have + contributed a valuable item to the great volume of geographical + knowledge." + + * * * * * + + _From Colonel George Soule, President of Soule, College, New Orleans:_ + + "I recognize the correctness of Captain Glazier's claim, and shall + teach that the source of the Mississippi is LAKE GLAZIER." + + * * * * * + + _From Rev. L. Abernethy, A. M., D. D., President of + Rutherford College, North Carolina:_ + + "I am satisfied that LAKE GLAZIER is the true source of the + Mississippi and that Captain Glazier is entitled to the honor of + its discovery." + + * * * * * + + _From J. L. Smith, Map Publisher, Philadelphia:_ + + "Having given considerable attention to the merits of the claim + presented by Captain Willard Glazier to have definitely located the + source of the Mississippi, I am of the opinion that the lake to the + south of Itasca should be recognized as the primal reservoir or + true fountain-head of that river, and that Captain Glazier is + entitled to the credit of having been the first to discover this + fact and call public attention to it." + + * * * * * + + _From G. H. Laughlin, A. M., Ph. D., President of Hiram College, Ohio:_ + + "Captain Glazier has rendered an invaluable service to the science + of geography. I am glad that the school geographies are being + corrected so as to indicate LAKE GLAZIER as the source of the + Father of Waters." + + * * * * * + + _From the firm of W. & A. K. Johnston, of Edinburgh, Scotland, + Geographers and Engravers to the Queen:_ + + "You have the satisfaction of having done a great work in settling + the vexed question of the source of your mighty river. For this, + all interested in geography are indebted to you." + + * * * * * + + _From Charles Lubrecht, Map Publisher, New York:_ + + "I shall show LAKE GLAZIER as the source of the Mississippi River + in all future editions of my Maps." + + * * * * * + + _From M. Dripps, Map Publisher, New York:_ + + "I will avail myself of Captain Glazier's discovery by showing the + True Source of the Mississippi on future editions of my maps of the + United States." + + * * * * * + + _From George H. Benedict & Co., Map, Wood and Photo-Engravers, Chicago:_ + + "LAKE GLAZIER is now acknowledged to be the True Source of the + Mississippi, and in the course of time will appear as such on all + maps." + + * * * * * + + _From John S. Kendall, President of the National School + Furnishing Company of Chicago:_ + + "_Chicago_, October 6, 1887. + + "Captain Willard Glazier: + + "_Dear Sir:_--Your book 'Down the Great River' has been received + and read with interest. I am glad to see the entire narrative in + book form. There is no doubt about your expedition having added + largely to our rather limited stock of information regarding the + country around the headwaters of the Great River. I deem it a + graceful and fitting compliment to give your name to the lake south + of Itasca. + + "Thanking you for the book, which I have placed in my library. + + "Yours very respectfully, + + "John S. Kendall." + + * * * * * + + _From Frederick Warne & Company, Publishers, London:_ + + "Pray accept our very cordial thanks. The alteration in the source + of your great river has been noted, and we shall gladly avail + ourselves of the information to make the correction in our + atlases." + + * * * * * + + _From Thos. Nelson & Sons, Edinburgh and New York:_ + + "The correction as to the True Source of the Mississippi will be + made as opportunity occurs, when issuing new editions of our + publications." + + * * * * * + + _From Herr A. Hartleben, one of the leading Publishers of Germany:_ + + "I congratulate Captain Glazier on his important discovery of the + source of the Mississippi River, and shall have great pleasure in + bringing the subject to the notice of our Geographical Society." + + * * * * * + + _From Appleton's Annual Encyclopedia--1885:_ + + "Lake Itasca, which has been distinguished as the head of the + Mississippi for fifty years, must, it seems, yield that distinction + to a smaller lake about a mile and a half in length by a mile in + width, lying further south, discovered by Captain Willard Glazier + in, 1881, and named for him 'Lake Glazier.'" + + * * * * * + + _From American Supplement to the Encyclopedia Britannica:_ + + "The Mississippi has its source in LAKE GLAZIER, south of Lake + Itasca, Minnesota, 47 deg. 34' N. lat, 95 deg. 2' W. long. The greatest + width of this lake is a mile and a half, and it is deeper than + Itasca, with which it is connected by a shallow stream about six + feet wide." + + * * * * * + + + + +VI. NOTICES OF THE PRESS. + + +The Press, as the most important indication and expression of public +opinion, has been almost unanimous, since 1881, in sustaining Captain +Glazier's claim, more especially the Press of Minnesota; while the +majority of the leading papers of the East have pronounced strongly in +his favor. We can insert here only a few notices, taken chiefly from the +journals of the Northwest. + + * * * * * + + _Saint Paul Dispatch._ + + "Captain Glazier has just published the record of his experiences + in his undertaking to establish that the true source of the + Mississippi is not that which geographers have heretofore accepted + as such, to wit: Lake Itasca. It is indisputable that Captain + Glazier did proceed to a higher point than any reached by previous + explorers, and that the body of water located by him and now known + as LAKE GLAZIER, is a direct feeder of the generally accredited + head of the Mississippi. The _Dispatch_ has always claimed for the + writer of this book the honor of being the discoverer of the true + source of our Great River. There certainly is a great deal in his + work to substantiate his claim, and to sustain the attitude taken + by the _Dispatch_. + + "...Captain Glazier set out to test the correctness of the + generally accepted theories of scholars as to the place of the rise + of this Great River; he made the test and found, as we believe, + that those theories were not correct. He has given to the world the + record of that work, and has done much to perpetuate his own name + thereby." + + * * * * * + + _Minneapolis Spectator._ + + "'Down the Great River,' by Captain Willard Glazier, gives an + account of the discovery of the lake now generally asserted to be + the source of the Mississippi; also a description of a canoe voyage + during the summer of 1881, from the source to the mouth of the + Father of Waters. A journey of over three thousand miles by canoe, + and on a single stream, is in itself an arduous and remarkable + undertaking, and one seldom, if ever, paralleled. Captain Glazier + presents not only reasonable evidence to support his claim as the + discoverer of the true source of the Great River, but gives an + entertaining and instructive narrative of his researches and + adventures, thus affording a graphic history and description of the + Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _Brainerd Dispatch._ + + "'Down the Great River,' by Captain Willard Glazier, is an account + of the author's voyage in 1881, from the source to the mouth of the + Mississippi River in a canoe. It is a very interesting and + instructive narrative from beginning to end; the descriptions of + the scenery through which the river passes being unusually fine. In + this volume the Captain presents his claim of having discovered + beyond Lake Itasca another lake which is connected with Itasca by a + well-defined stream, and consequently is the true source of the + Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _Northwestern Presbyterian, Minneapolis._ + + "All who live in the valley of America's greatest river will be + especially interested in knowing something of its source, its + course, and the cities that line its banks. Since De Soto first + discovered the Father of Waters in 1541, many eminent explorers + have been associated with its history. Marquette, Joliet, La Salle, + Hennepin, La Hontan, Charlevoix, Carver, Pike, Cass, and Beltrami + preceded Schoolcraft. The last named discovered a lake which he + supposed to be the source, but the Indians and the missionaries + said there was a lake beyond. A learned few believed them. It + remained for some explorer to make further investigation and + publish the truth more widely to the world. This was done by + Captain Glazier in 1881, who visited the lake, explored its shores + and found it to be wider and deeper than Itasca." + + * * * * * + + _Winona Republican._ + + "Captain Glazier, who has won fame as the discoverer of the true + source of the Mississippi, has recently published a good-sized + volume entitled 'Down the Great River.' ... Very few persons + realize that a man who passes from the source of the Mississippi to + its mouth experiences a greater variety in scene, in populations, + and in climate, than would an explorer going from the source to the + mouth of any other river in the world.... The narrative of Captain + Glazier is interesting, because it gives a panoramic view of the + Mississippi from its source to its mouth, describing the appearance + of the river wherever tributaries enter, and noting the character + of the Indians, fur-traders, pioneers, frontiersmen, and the + agricultural and commercial communities along its course. There is, + too, a spice of personal adventure in such a journey, because for + the greater part of the trip the Captain was accompanied by only + one other person, and the novelty of riding in a canoe over every + mile of one of the greatest rivers in the world, in itself gives a + peculiar character to the record of the journey. The story is + simply the narrative of life in a canoe floating down the + Mississippi, supplemented by such historical recollections and + reminiscences as have seemed appropriate to one who is an + enthusiast in the history of exploration...." + + * * * * * + + _Minneapolis Star-News._ + + "On the 22d day of July, 1881, the traveler and author, Captain + Willard Glazier, discovered a silvery lake nestled among the + pineries of Northern Minnesota and situate about a mile and a half + to the south of Lake Itasca. He also discovered that a swift + current flowed continuously from his new-found wonder to what was + supposed to be the source of the Father of Waters. The lake is + known to the Indians as _Pokegama_, and when it was reached by the + Glazier party they were much surprised by Chenowagesic, an Indian + chief, who had accompanied them as guide, addressing Captain + Glazier as follows: + + "'My brother, I have come with you through many lakes and rivers to + the head of the Father of Waters. The shores of this lake are my + hunting ground. Here I have had my wigwam and planted corn for many + years. When I again roam through these forests, and look on this + lake, source of the Great River, I will look on you.' + + "Captain Glazier was induced to explore the true source of the + Mississippi by Indian traditions which he had picked up while + traveling across the continent and which denied Schoolcraft's + theory of Itasca.... Fortified with the idea that Schoolcraft was + in error he set out to discover the true source of the Father of + Waters, and how he succeeded forms the subject of the first five + chapters of his very interesting book. The remainder of the book, + an interesting and instructive volume of nearly five hundred pages, + is devoted to a trip 'down the Great River' to the Gulf of Mexico. + To Captain Glazier is due all the honor and glory of discovering to + modern geographers the true source of our great river." + + * * * * * + + _Detroit Commercial Advertiser._ + + "'Down the Great River' is Captain Willard Glazier's interesting + record of his expedition in 1881 in search of the source of the + Mississippi River. It is a very exciting narrative from beginning + to end, is profusely illustrated and will be especially interesting + to students of geography, as well as to all interested in matters + of exploration and discovery. Captain Glazier undoubtedly + accomplished a great work. The source of the Mississippi had ever + been an unsettled question, unsatisfactory attempts at discovery + having been made and various ill-founded claims put forward; but + the subject for the last half century has been constantly agitated. + It remained for Captain Glazier to finish the work begun by De Soto + in 1541, and positively locate the true fountain-head.... That the + lake from which the Great River starts, known by the Indians as + Lake Pokegama, should be re-named LAKE GLAZIER, seems an + appropriate honor for the resolute explorer...." + + * * * * * + + _La Crosse Republican and Leader._ + + "'Down the Great River' is the title of a book just issued which + possesses many claims to popular favor. No one on the North + American continent will be at a loss to identify the river by its + title; the Amazon undoubtedly discharges a larger volume of water + into the sea, and the Volga is claimed to be longer. No river in + the Old or New World is surrounded by so many associations, or is + so identified with the memories of discoverers and adventurers, + warrior-priests and saintly soldiers, peaceful pioneers and + devastating armies, as the Mississippi.... For half a century Lake + Itasca has been accepted as the fountain-head of the Great River, + but Captain Glazier having had reasons for doubting the correctness + of that theory, undertook, in 1881, to verify or disprove it, and + the book treats of his adventures on that mission and his + subsequent voyage by canoe down its entire length from its source + to its mouth, a distance of three thousand one hundred and + eighty-four miles.... The voyage, embracing as it does over + seventeen degrees of latitude, furnishes material for the + description of strongly contrasted scenery and greatly diversified + industries, and in depicting these the Captain has the pen of a + ready writer, simple and concise...." + + * * * * * + + _Michigan Christian Advocate._ + + "'Down the Great River' is a book of great current interest. It is + packed full of things people ought to know. Not only is there a + full and well-written account of the finding of the true source of + the Mississippi, but a wonderful amount of fact and incident picked + up along its shores from its headwaters clear down to New Orleans + and the Gulf of Mexico." + + * * * * * + + _Detroit Tribune._ + + "This interesting work gives an account of the discovery of the + true source of the Mississippi River, by the author. From the first + page to the last the book teems with information and topographical + and geographical data to be found nowhere else. Captain Glazier + carries his readers along with him from the source of the mighty + river down through a stretch of over three thousand miles clear + into the salt waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The author made the + trip in an open canoe, and as he proceeds downwards discourses + pleasantly upon the features of the landscape, the characteristics + of the people and the important towns upon the banks of the Great + River." + + * * * * * + + _Grand Rapids (Michigan) Leader._ + + "Lake Itasca has been the accredited head of the Mississippi for + fifty years, and the author's desire to pursue further + investigations into the great north country was due to conflicting + reports published by other navigators and explorers of discoveries + made in that region. He decided to investigate the matter + personally. The author describes in an entertaining manner the + incidents of each day as the journey proceeded towards Lake Itasca. + Here a careful survey of the lake was made for feeders, several of + which were found, and up the largest of which the party forced + their way through a strong barrier of rushes. After a short passage + a body of water was found Which the Indians called Lake _Pokegama_, + but which the Captain's companions named GLAZIER in honor of the + head of the expedition. They then floated down the river in their + canoes to the Gulf, and the events of each day form very + interesting and often thrilling chapters as they are described by + the author." + + * * * * * + + _New Bedford Standard._ + + "In 1881 Captain Glazier made a canoe voyage of over three thousand + miles from the headwaters of the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico, + and this book gives an interesting account of the voyage, together + with a description of the cities and villages along the river + banks, not omitting important historical events or quaint bits of + legendary lore. While the book is of special value to the young + student of geography and history, it is none the less valuable to + all who are interested in geographical science, particularly in the + question of the source of the Mississippi River...." + + * * * * * + + _Madisonensis, Madison University, New York._ + + "Captain Glazier has commanded the attention of educated men + generally by asserting and satisfactorily proving that he has at + last discovered what De Soto, Marquette, La Salle, Schoolcraft, and + other explorers, were unable to find--the true source of the + Mississippi. The journey of exploration is here minutely described, + and the account is enlivened with bright narratives of personal + experiences. The author is an able writer, and a keen critical + observer, and the information collected, pertaining to the people + and country along the course of the Great River, from its + headwaters to the Gulf of Mexico, is of value to every student of + our country's history. The book is more than a mere description of + an expedition--it is an epitomized collection of historical, + geographical and commercial matters interesting to all." + + * * * * * + + _Hamilton, New York, Republican._ + + ... "The important fact brought out is, that Lake Itasca, + discovered by Schoolcraft in 1832, and by him located as the + fountain-head of the river, has no just claim to that title. + Glazier's expedition has brought public notice to another lake at a + remoter distance from the mouth than Itasca, which is united to the + latter by a constantly flowing stream.... It now seems that the + prominence Itasca has had so long must hereafter be given to LAKE + GLAZIER." + + * * * * * + + _Davenport Tribune._ + + "This work embraces an account of the discovery by the author of + the true source of the Mississippi. It is an interesting tale of + how Captain Glazier and his party pursued a voyage in canoes up the + stream which flowed into Itasca, and finally located the real + source of the river in a new lake, which was named by his + companions LAKE GLAZIER. The work is a valuable one and highly + instructive, and should be read by all residents of the Mississippi + Valley." + + * * * * * + + _Daily Eagle, Grand Rapids, Michigan._ + + ... "It seems most surprising that it should have been reserved for + so recent a date as 1881 to discover the true source of the + greatest river of our continent, especially within the borders of a + territory that has been a State for nearly forty years. But such is + the fact, and to Captain Glazier belongs the honor of the discovery + among white men." + + * * * * * + + _Telegram-Herald, Grand Rapids, Michigan._ + + ... "Captain Glazier, in his search for the true source of the + Mississippi, has corrected a geographical error of half a century, + and located the fountain-head in a lake above and beyond Lake + Itasca. He discovered this lake on the twenty-second day of July, + 1881, Chenowagesic, a Chippewa brave, being his guide. The lake, + out of which flows the infant Mississippi, is about two miles in + its greatest diameter. Its Indian name is _Pokegama_, but Glazier's + companions insisted on naming it after their leader."... + + * * * * * + + _Akron Daily Beacon._ + + ... "Until Captain Glazier traced back from Lake Itasca the + perennial stream that supplied it from a more distant lake, called + by the Indians _Pokegama_, and beyond which there is no further + supply to the Father of Waters, Itasca was considered its + source.... July twelfth, 1881, Glazier left Brainerd, Minnesota, on + his mission, reaching Leech Lake July seventeenth. Thence the + expedition proceeded westward by little lakes and streams and + portages, until on the twenty-first they camped on Schoolcraft + Island, in Lake Itasca, and then paddling through this lake away, + as supposed, from the Mississippi, and by Eagle Creek, the next day + they found what is now, and will hereafter be known as, LAKE + GLAZIER, the ultimate source of the mighty Mississippi."... + + * * * * * + + _Youngstown (Ohio) Telegram._ + + "A pamphlet, entitled the 'True Source of the Mississippi,' by + Pearce Giles, has reached us. It proves very clearly that not Lake + Itasca but LAKE GLAZIER, a lake just to the south of it, is the + true source of the mighty central river. The best part of the + discovery seems to be that Captain Glazier so explored the country + about this lake that there is no possibility of another discovery + of a connecting lake beyond it. One likes to have such matters + settled definitely." + + * * * * * + + _National Republican, Washington, D. C._ + + ... "The birthplace of the Father of Waters is not Lake Itasca, as + generally received, but LAKE GLAZIER, in its vicinity, which, by a + small stream, flows into Itasca. LAKE GLAZIER, so named from its + discoverer, Captain Willard Glazier, has three feeders, Eagle, + Excelsior, and Deer creeks. This latest geographical claim is + supported by ample testimony from highest and widespread + authorities. The story of adventures during the exploration which + had so important a result, is extremely interesting." + + * * * * * + + _Dubuque Trade Journal._ + + "On July twenty-second, 1881, Captain Willard Glazier dispelled the + geographical error of half a century which has placed Lake Itasca + on the maps as the source of the Mississippi. Strange as it may + seem, there is scarcely a wilder region on this continent than + exists in Northern Minnesota, and it has so remained in spite of + the explorations of Beltrami, Schoolcraft, and Nicollet, who, + perhaps, ought to have been a little more exhaustive in their + efforts when on the same depended the designation of the actual + source of a great river. Nevertheless, at the date above mentioned, + Captain Glazier, at the head of a small but indomitable band, + emerged from Lake Itasca, and the birch-bark canoes of the party + were urged against a strong current and a bulwark of rushes, + through a stream seven feet wide and three deep, until the clear + waters of another lake came in view. The greatest diameter of this + new body of water is about two miles, its feeders are traceable to + springs only, and hence it is unquestionably the primal source + whence the Father of Waters starts on his long journey of 3,184 + miles to the Gulf of Mexico."... + + * * * * * + + _Burlington Hawkeye._ + + "In the summer of 1881, Captain Willard Glazier, well known as a + popular writer, made a remarkable canoe voyage from the source of + the Mississippi down its entire length to the Gulf of Mexico. Prior + to starting on this unprecedented voyage, he organized and led an + expedition to the headwaters of the river in Northern Minnesota, + with a view of setting at rest the vexed question as to the true + source of the mighty river. Captain Glazier and his party left + Saint Paul, duly equipped with canoes and commissariat, July + Fourth, 1881, and arrived at Lake Itasca July twenty-first. Thence, + by the aid of his Indian guides, he penetrated to another lake + beyond Itasca, and connected therewith by a stream which is a + continuation of the Mississippi, and at that point is simply a + narrow creek. The lake thus entered by Captain Glazier he claims to + be the true source of the Father of Waters. LAKE GLAZIER now + appears on the maps as the source of the Great River." + + * * * * * + + _Saint Paul Times._ + + ... "Captain Glazier's claims are supported emphatically by the + overwhelming testimony of thousands of the most distinguished and + competent authorities in the Northwest. Glazier undoubtedly + expended much time and treasure in investigating not only the + source of the Mississippi, but the geography and history of the + entire river, from its source to the Gulf.... The leading map + publishers have endorsed his claims, and do so in a way that leaves + no doubt that they place implicit confidence in him as a careful + and trustworthy geographer and historian. Rand, McNally & Co., and + George F. Cram, of Chicago; Matthews, Northrup & Co., of Buffalo; + A. S. Barnes & Co., of New York; University Publishing Company, of + New York; W. & A. K. Johnston, of Edinburgh, Scotland; MacMillan & + Co., London and New York; W. M. Bradley & Brother, Philadelphia, + and many others of the leading publishing houses, who have a heavy + personal interest in investigating the accuracy of everything they + publish, acknowledge Captain Glazier's claims by accepting his + views, and reproducing them in their books and maps. The press, + bar, pulpit, and legislature of the State of Minnesota give + unqualified assent through many of their leading members, to the + position of Captain Glazier." + + * * * * * + + _Chicago Times._ + + "The most interesting portion of Captain Glazier's 'Down the Great + River' is the beginning, where the author gives the details of an + expedition made in 1881 by himself with five companions, when he + claims, with good grounds, to have fixed the actual, true source of + the Great River. His attention was called in 1876 to the fact that, + though everybody knows the mouth of the stream, there was then much + uncertainty about the source. In 1881 he found time to organize the + expedition named, and crossing the country to Itasca, embarked and + pushed through that lake up a stream flowing into it, and came upon + another considerable body of water fed by three streams originating + in springs at the foot of a curved range of hills some miles + further on. This lake he fixed upon as the true source, and since + his published accounts many geographers and map-workers have + modified their works according to his discoveries. He does not + claim to be the actual discoverer of the lake, as such, but only to + have been the first to discover and establish the fact that it is + the highest link in a chain in which Itasca is another; or, in + other words, the true source of the river. The Indian name of the + lake is _Pokegama_, and this, the author says, he would have + retained, but was overruled by the other five, who insisted on + calling it LAKE GLAZIER. For the particulars of the interesting + story the reader must be referred to the volume itself. Captain + Glazier is an old traveler and a practised writer. The manner of + his journey down the Mississippi enabled him to see well all there + was to see, and he enables his readers to see also." + + * * * * * + + _Chicago Inter-Ocean._ + + "Readers of 'Soldiers of the Saddle,' 'Capture, Prison-Pen and + Escape,' and other writings of Captain Glazier will require no + urging to read the entertaining volume 'Down the Great River.' It + is an account of the discovery of the true source of the + Mississippi River, with pictorial and descriptive views of cities, + towns and scenery gathered from a canoe voyage from its head waters + to the Gulf. For fifty years American youth have been taught that + 'the Mississippi rises in Lake Itasca,' until Captain Glazier, in + this memorable journey of one hundred and seventeen days in his + canoe, demonstrated the error and mapped the facts so accurately as + to settle the question for all time. Leading geographers and + educational publishers have already made changes in their maps and + given due credit to Captain Glazier and his new lake. To say the + Mississippi rises in LAKE GLAZIER is only doing simple justice to + the intrepid explorer and hero of many battles. The book is + charmingly written, mainly in the form of a diary, and contains + facts of great value, so interwoven with incidents and fine + descriptions and novel adventures as to be as interesting as the + best romance. One could scarcely find better history or finer + descriptions or be more fully impressed with the breadth and length + and grandeur of American possessions than by journeying with + Captain Glazier in his canoe down the grand river of the continent. + The volume is handsomely printed and bound and well illustrated." + + * * * * * + + _Chicago Evening Journal._ + + "However the knowledge may affect the world at large that the + source of the mighty Mississippi is other than generations of + geography students have been taught that it was, there is little + doubt left in the reader's mind, after perusing Captain Willard + Glazier's 'Down the Great River,' that we have all been in the + wrong about it, and that this most peerless river was born, not in + Itasca's sparkling springs, but in another wider and deeper lake + that lies still further south and bears the name of its discoverer, + the author of this interesting volume of exploration and adventure. + There is something charming in the simple thought of an expedition + such as the one undertaken by Captain Glazier. Imagine long, silent + days of absolutely unbroken communion with Nature! Slipping along + in a frail canoe, without the sound of an uncongenial human speech, + of clanging bells or grating wheels, through circling hours of + unbroken calm, with only the swish of bending reeds and lapping + waters to break the hush and remind one of a sentient world. + Perhaps the author and his Indian guides occasionally exchanged a + word, or the two white companions and himself indulged in a laugh + that started the rattling echoes of the hills, but there was no + chatter, no twaddle, no dissensions. The narrative reads like a + story. Reading it, one longs to start for LAKE GLAZIER to-morrow, + and thence descending, halt not in his long course until his + faithful canoe slips out into the waters of the Southern Gulf, + three thousand miles away. A man with a soul in him would rather + take such a trip with all its hardships and its perils than go on a + hundred cut-and-dried trips to Europe. The book is handsomely bound + and well illustrated." + + * * * * * + + _Chicago Herald._ + + "For half a century or more it has been understood that Lake Itasca + was the source of the Mississippi River, but Captain Willard + Glazier has exploded this theory by a canoe voyage undertaken in + 1881. The results of his investigations were given to geographers + at the time and accepted as satisfactory and complete. Maps were at + once changed by the map publishers, and LAKE GLAZIER, a tributary + of Lake Itasca, was set down as the true source of the 'Father of + Waters.' The story of Captain Glazier's adventures is told by him + in a book entitled 'Down the Great River,' which is entertaining as + well as being of importance as a contribution to the geography and + history of this country. Together with two companions and several + guides, Glazier first discovered that the lake now bearing his name + was the true source of the Great River, and then journeyed by canoe + from that point to the mouth of the Mississippi, a distance of + 3,184 miles. This trip occupied one hundred and seventeen days and + was attended with various haps and mishaps and numerous adventures + of an exciting character. It is not easy from a mere book + description to realize the extent and importance of such a trip as + that made by Captain Glazier. More than a hundred days of roughing + it along one of the greatest waterways in the world could not fail + to be productive of much that would interest even a casual reader, + and as Captain Glazier is an experienced traveller and a skilled + writer, he has made the most of his opportunities." + + * * * * * + + _Springfield (Ohio) Times._ + + "The latest book from the pen of Willard Glazier, the well-known + soldier-author, is entitled 'Down the Great River.' It is a work of + great geographical and historical value, and settles beyond + peradventure the disputed question of the true source of the + Mississippi. Aside from its scientific value, the work is a + charmingly entertaining narrative of the thrilling adventures and + amusing incidents of a canoe trip over the whole length of the + Mississippi from its source in the cold regions of the North to + where it rolls into the ocean over the burning sands of the Gulf + coast. It is highly instructive and interesting in its graphic + descriptions and character sketches, depicting the varied human + nature, local customs, and folk-lore that find habitation along the + banks of the Great River. The book is well worth the perusal of + every one, and an American library without it would be incomplete." + + * * * * * + + _Ohio State Journal._ + + "It seems strange that for nearly fifty years up to 1881, no new + thing had been discovered concerning the great Mississippi, whose + source in the vast wilderness of the Northwest was supposed to be + in Lake Itasca. In that year, however, Captain Willard Glazier, an + adventurous spirit, determined to finally solve the mystery of the + source of the 'Father of Waters,' and also to navigate its entire + length from source to sea. Accordingly he traced with infinite + hardship the narrowing stream above Itasca until its true source + was finally reached in what is now known as LAKE GLAZIER. Then, + turning about, he floated down the constantly growing stream until + its mighty volume was emptied into the Gulf of Mexico. Of this + great trip, replete with adventure and abounding in incident, he + has given a most graphic and interesting account under the title of + 'Down the Great River.'" + + * * * * * + + _The Wheeling Intelligencer._ + + "Captain Glazier's name is familiar to the reading public of + America through his earlier works, 'Soldiers of the Saddle,' + 'Capture, Prison-Pen and Escape,' 'Battles for the Union,' 'Heroes + of Three Wars,' 'Peculiarities of American Cities,' and 'Ocean to + Ocean on Horseback.' His latest book, 'Down the Great River,' is + his most important essay in the field of literature, and is in + several respects unique. It is a very interesting account of a + remarkable canoe voyage from the head waters of the Mississippi to + the Gulf; but its importance comes from the fact that, until this + voyage was made, the source of the Mississippi was universally + placed in Lake Itasca, whereas Glazier and his party demonstrated + that a higher basin, now put down in all the new maps and + geographies as LAKE GLAZIER, is really the primary reservoir of the + Mississippi. It seems almost incredible, but is nevertheless true, + that for over forty years previous to 1881, when Captain Glazier + made his discovery, it was accepted as settled that Lake Itasca was + the remotest body of water from the mouth of the Mississippi. The + falsity of this theory, however, has been established and an + important discovery given to the geographical world. No discovery + rivaling this in interest and importance has been made on the + American continent for half a century." + + * * * * * + + _Philadelphia Public Ledger._ + + "By the discoveries of Captain Willard Glazier, made in 1881, Lake + Itasca is dislodged from its former eminence as the source of the + Mississippi, the real head-waters of that mighty stream being + traced to LAKE GLAZIER, a distance of 3,184 miles from the Gulf of + Mexico." + + * * * * * + + _Brooklyn Eagle._ + + "Captain Glazier's very clear map of the Great River shows the True + Source to be south of Lake Itasca, accepted by Schoolcraft in 1832 + as the head-waters in disregard of the stream entering its + southwestern arm.... To Captain Glazier belongs the identification + of the fountain-head of the Mississippi." + + * * * * * + + _Philadelphia Times._ + + "Captain Willard Glazier has lately discovered the True Source of + the Mississippi, which is not in Lake Itasca, but in another lake + to the south of it, and succeeds in proving his discovery to the + satisfaction of the most competent judges, to wit, the geographers + and educational publishers of the country. These accept the new + source by placing it on their maps and calling it after its + discoverer, 'Lake Glazier.'" + + * * * * * + + _New York Observer._ + + "To Captain Glazier is undoubtedly due the honor of tracing the + Father of Waters, the great American river, up to its real source + in the network of lakes that occupies the central and northern + portion of the State of Minnesota." + + * * * * * + + _Minneapolis Journal._ + + "...That what is now known as LAKE GLAZIER is the True Source of + the Mississippi River; and that to Captain Glazier is due the + credit of first placing the fact before the public by accurate + chart and maps, is unquestionably true." + + * * * * * + + _Philadelphia North American._ + + "The True Source of the Mississippi is settled beyond controversy. + Glazier's name will hereafter be classed with those of De Soto, La + Salle, and Hennepin, whose names are forever associated with the + Great River which divides the United States." + + * * * * * + + _Philadelphia Inquirer._ + + "Several years ago Captain Glazier, while meditating upon the + exploits of De Soto, Marquette, Father Hennepin and La Salle, the + heroic old explorers, who led the way to the Great River of North + America, regretted that, although its mouth was discovered by the + Chevalier La Salle nearly two hundred years ago, there was still + much uncertainty as to its True Source.... The discovery and final + location of the source of the Mississippi has now received general + recognition in this country and Europe, and there certainly seems + to be no doubt of the validity of Captain Glazier's claim. His + account of the discovery is very entertaining reading." + + + + +CONCLUSION. + + +The reader who is interested in the question discussed in this Appendix +has, we venture to assert, found ample evidence to justify the author of +"Down the Great River" in his claim to have been the first to locate the +veritable source of the Mississippi. The testimony is of such a +character that it is impossible for an impartial critic to arrive at any +other verdict than that the fountain-head of the Father of Waters is +_not_ in Lake Itasca, but in the lake to the south of it, now known as +LAKE GLAZIER. The declarations of the Indians and pioneers in the +vicinity of the source of this river are altogether corroborative of +Captain Glazier and his companions; the press of Minnesota speaks with +but one voice, while geographers and educational publishers are almost +unanimous in their recognition of the facts developed by his expedition. + + HUBBARD BROTHERS, + _Publishers of "Down The Great River_." + 723 Chestnut Street, + Philadelphia, April 30, 1888. + + + +***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SWORD AND PEN*** + + +******* This file should be named 28152.txt or 28152.zip ******* + + +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: +https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/2/8/1/5/28152 + + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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