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one of the Southern States. You know, in the South, the road to high
position since the war has been through the rebel camps."

"Yes, yes! Uncle Daniel, that is true. Not so, however, with us in the
North. The road to high position here is not through the Union camps,
but through wealth and the influence of what is called elegant society,
where no questions are asked as to how or where you got your money, so
you have it."

"It does seem so, Doctor, now; but it was not so in our earlier days. I
am sorry to confess that this change has taken place.

"After going through the scenes of this battle, now called the battle of
the 'Gaps,' and burying my son, I felt for the time as if I could have
no heart in anything the only thought on my mind was how to break the
sad news to his mother. The Colonel said he would keep the name from the
list of the dead until I could return home to be with the mother, so as
to console her in her grief. I bade my son, the Colonel, farewell. There
he stood, quiet and erect, the great tears rolling down his cheeks.
I commenced my sad journey alone. In going to Washington I overtook
straggling detachments, teams without drivers, and found on the road
general waste of army materials, and equipage of all kinds in large
quantities. Arriving in Washington, everything was in great confusion.
The old General then in command of all the forces was dignified and
martial in his every look and movement, but evidently much excited.
There was no danger, however, as both armies were willing to stand off
without another trial of arms for the present. I saw the President and
told him what I had witnessed, as well as my misfortune. I advised that
no movement of our forces be again attempted without further drilling
and better discipline, as I was sure good training would have prevented
the disaster of that day. On my way home I was oppressed with grief,
causing many inquiries of me as to my distress, which only made it
necessary for me to repeat my sad story over and over again until I
reached Allentown. My friends, there was the great test of my strength
and manhood. How could I break this to my wife? They had all heard the
news of the battle, and were in sorrow over our country's misfortune. On
entering the gate all rushed out on the porch to welcome me back, eager
for news; but my countenance told the sad story. The Doctor was the
first to speak:

"'We know about the battle, father,' said he; 'but your fac