June 2, 1863, Weekly Columbus Enquirer (Georgia)
From the Knoxville Register.
After a visit to the Rappahannock army, the writer of this made a parting call on General Jackson, in his tent. As we stood exchanging the last words, some reference was made to what our ladies were doing. “Yes,” said he, “but they must not entice the men away from the army. You must tell them so for me. We are fighting for principle, for honor, for everything we hold dear. If we fail we must lose everything. We shall then be slaves–we shall be worse than slaves–we shall have nothing worth living for.”
I am sure the women of the Confederacy will give these words of the now lamented hero a place in their hearts. Let them not be impatient even about their friends in the army coming on visits home. Let them encourage and cheer them in staying at their posts whenever and so long as may be necessary.
But, whether there may have been much occasion for such a suggestion to them or not, the words which Jackson spoke in connection with it, are words alike noble and solemn, to which every man, as well as every woman, in the Confederate States ought to listen. Let our soldiers inscribe them on their banners. Let our citizens at home keep them before their eyes. Let those who are mad in the pursuit of gain, amid the sufferings of their country, aid their fellow-citizens, and give ear to the tones of warning which these words convey.
L.