The Whip, Hoe, and Sword; or The Gulf Department in '63

Excerpt from The Whip, Hoe, and Sword: Or, the Gulf-Department in '63
My book was written con amore, and in the midst of the scenes described. I never journeyed without my notebook and pencil, and was careful to record conversations as soon as possible after their occurrence.
I was with our forces when they marched through the "Teche", and when they were before Port Hudson. I have seen our boys under all possible circumstances, - in the camp, on the march, in the field, and in the hospital; and I believe that the world never saw an army its equal in culture, fortitude, and patriotism. There never has been a time in our history, when to be an American citizen or an American soldier could be reckoned so great a privilege as it is to-day.