s--look at the city of Chicago. It is hardly as old as any
of you, for twenty-five years ago a little military garrison was
here--a two-company post; and now it is a city of palaces, of
streets, railroads, etc. You, the men of a city almost the second
in the United States of America, are to assist in directing the
affairs of this country. You have the patience and industry, and
more than that, you have organization, discipline and drill, and if
I have been instrumental in teaching you this--in maintaining
discipline, order and good government in the army which I have had
the honor to command, I am contented; for on this system, and on
the high tone of honor which pervades your minds, must be built the
empire of America. (Loud cheers.)

I did not wish to address you, but I believe that there are no
others here who desire to speak, and therefore I ask you to accept
what is given in heartiness--a full, joyous, welcome home to
Chicago. I know it is genuine, for I myself have experienced it.
Feel you are at home--and that there are no more rebels, no more
raking fire--no more shot; but that you have done with them all
forever. Good morning.

On the afternoon of the 21st of June, having been in Chicago just ten
days, every member of the Eighty-sixth received his pay and final
discharge. Soon, the boys scattered to the four winds, bound for home
and friends. Suddenly, the Eighty-sixth Illinois passed from existence!

* * * * *

Here ends the history of the good old Eighty-sixth Regiment of
Volunteer Infantry, which had undergone so many days of hardships,
perils and privations for the maintenance of home, union and liberty.

There is no surviving member of the regiment, but will always pride
himself in having belonged to that organization; he will never forget
the sad and repulsive scenes of the past, in connection with the merry
days of yore; he will ever cherish in lasting remembrance the many
noble and heroic comrades who have fallen by his side--men with whom he
has passed the most trying hours of his existence--men who knowing the
rights of their friends, their country and homes, dared raise the
strong right arm in defense. Ay! he will ever invoke a just Heaven to
reward them as their merit deserves, and in his hours of sad
reflection, he will drop a tear to their memory.

REGIMENTAL ROSTER.

REGI