James L. Goodloe, Attorney at Law."
118 Madison Avenue."
Memphis, Tennessee."
[June 26, 1913]
Dear Mrs. Armistead:-
I have, all my life felt that my loved friends who have preceded me to the
Great Beyond, are still with me in spirit, and that I can almost commune with them. This
always affords me intense pleasure, and I have dear Jere Gage always present with me.
You have deeply gratified me by sending me Dr. Holt's splendid article
concerning the great battle of July 3d, 1863 at Gettysburg, and especially his tender
words, both in the article of the 22nd, Instant, in the New Orleans Times-Democrat, and in
the letter to you of the fact of a Just, Tender, forgiving, and alwise Creator. We are
prisoners, here, awaiting His good time, and we would not have been born into this world
if it had not been that we were worthy of the notice of the Almighty, and therefore, we
are here for some wise and good purpose. Thus I reconcile myself to the Will of God,"
and know that He does all things well."
Jere gave to the Universe an example of pure devotion to his country,"
sealed, actually, with his precious blood. Jere, with his two warm friends and College
mate, Joe T. McGehee, and my cousin, John Dawson, were all the very noblest of men."
John also sealed his devotion with his blood, and Joe, although he lived after the war, was as gallant as Phillip Sidney."
If it were not too late I would have the Confederate Veteran, for July,"
publish an article based upon what you have kindly sent to me. As it is I may call upon
one of the Newspapers, here to publish something of it."
It is with a sad heart that I allude to dear Jere, thereby, as it were,"
reopening old wounds in our hearts."
Be assured, Mrs. Armistead, that we are all one in our devotion and love
for the grandest and sweetest nature that was ever sent to bless this world, and to leave a
memory most devotedly revered."
Very truly and respectfully,"
James L. Goodloe."
To
Mrs. V.G. Armistead."
2616 Royal Street."
New Orleans. La.
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Citation
Gage Family Collection, Special Collections, University of Mississippi Libraries
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