|
JOHN JUDSON BAGLEY
BY GEORGE H. HOPKINS
June 7, 1882
His strong innate love of right and justice made him from the first sound of warlike preparation, a staunch supporter of Lincoln and his administration, though at the Chicago convention, when Lincoln was nominated, he was there as a devoted adherent of Mr. Seward, felt his defeat keenly, and was fearful that the party had made a mistake.
During the sad days of the war he seemed to live a double life. All the time and energy that-any man should give to business he gave to his, and yet he seemed to devote all his time to his party, his State and his country. A leader in all measures for the advancement of the cause he held so dear, he was frequently at Washington, and with the armies in the field—giving aid, comfort, and counsel where most needed. To him every wounded Michigan man was a friend and brother, and he was never so happy as when administering to their wants. His letters to friends show that he then clearly saw what time soon developed. One extract must suffice:
"Detroit, Sept. 29th, 1862.
"Dear S. —I returned yesterday from a four-weeks trip with the army; followed you from post to post, from spot to spot, without catching you. I arrived on the battlefield of Antietam Wednesday noon, but was engaged all of the evening and Thursday, caring for our wounded soldiers. Friday I started early to find you, but after getting near where I supposed you were, heard you were on the march for the river. As I had to return my ambulance.
Friday night, I turned hack reluctantly. I heard, however, you were not hurt in any way, or I should not have turned my face homewards.
Michigan
Page 18
|
|
If you find this information helpful please consider making a donation
Thank you
Thank you
|
