“Our cause is just, our duty we know, In God we trust, to battle we go”

Autograph letter signed by Thomas McLeod. Centreville, [North Carolina], 11 November 1861. 4 pages, 8vo. 

A report from home by Thomas McLeod, to “his brother Duncan Murchison McLeod who had enlisted with the 26th North Carolina Infantry as a private.

While Thomas informs Duncan on various updates regarding their family, he also describes the ladies of Carthage preparing a dinner and presenting a flag to “Kelly’s Death Riflemen” before they set off to join the 35 Regiment. 

Thomas notes the inscription on their flag, which reads: “Our cause is just, our duty we know, In God we trust, to battle we go” and: “To Freedom’s battle on we send them, God of Battle, thy help lend them.” This letter and detail provide fascinating information on the Confederate troops who were moving through North Carolina at the start of the Civil War. 

    “The Jonesboro Company is now at Smithville below Wilmington, a great many of them are sick: 5 or 6 came home yesterday with measles. Capt. Bryan’s Co is in Edenton Chowan County. A late letter from cousin Duncan states they are there yet without arms–have not yet been mustered into the Regiment. Only 25 out of their 100 are able to perform Military duty. Capt. Bryan has been sick for some time and he would not be surprised if the co would disband and come home. 2 of the company having died since they left. Bad news from our Cavalry Company.”

Homefront gossip also makes an appearance, as Thomas describes rumors circulating about the company which are filtering home:

    “The last remark was made by a man that had heard a good deal about the company’s thirst for Officer seeking and the general dissatisfaction that has been in the company ever since it left. I hope you and Murdo and Sam will stick up for Capt. Martin at least for twelve months and see him out in all his difficulties, for let him be as he's only in the army, he is gaining popularity everyday at home.”

Through these sentiments, we are able to discern the attitude and environment that must have been circulating throughout the troops and their loved ones at home. 

A great homefront letter.

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