battery had left the
field. But it was in the bearing, more than in the daring, of the
soldier's life that his lovely character displayed itself. He never
avoided the most trying and irksome duties. If he had selfishness, those
who knew him long and well as schoolmates and comrades never discerned
it. More than once I have heard his beautiful Christian example spoken
of by irreligious comrades. Bitter and inexplicable as may be the
Providence which has removed one so full of promise of good to his
fellows, I feel that we may thank God that we have been permitted to
witness a life so Christ-like terminated by a death so noble.'

"Captain Poague, commanding the Rockbridge Battery, says in a letter to
his father:

"'In simple justice to your son, I desire to express my high
appreciation of his noble character as a soldier, a Christian, and
gentleman. Modest and courteous in his deportment, charitable and
unselfish in his disposition, cheerful and conscientious in his
performance of duty, and upright and consistent in his walk and
conversation, he was a universal favorite in the company, and greatly
beloved by his friends. I don't think I have ever known a young man
whose life was so free from the frailties of human nature, and whose
character in all aspects formed so faultless a model for the imitation
of others. Had his influence been restricted to the silent power and
beauty of his example, his life on earth, short as it was, would not
have been in vain. The name of Randolph Fairfax will not soon be
forgotten by his comrades, and his family may be assured that there are
many who, strangers as they are, deeply sympathize with them in their
bereavement.'

"The following from General Lee will be a fit climax to the foregoing
tributes:

"'CAMP FREDERICKSBURG, December 28, 1862.

"'MY DEAR DOCTOR: I have grieved most deeply at the death of your noble
son. I have watched his conduct from the commencement of the war, and
have pointed with pride to the patriotism, self-denial, and manliness of
character he has exhibited. I had hoped that an opportunity would have
occurred for the promotion he deserved; not that it would have elevated
him, but have shown that his devotion to duty was appreciated by his
country. Such an opportunity would undoubtedly have occurred; but he has
been translated to a better world for which his purity and his piety
have eminently fitted him. You do not require to be told how great his
gain. It i