May 27, 1863, The Charleston Mercury
We have heard of some recent instances of straggling on the part of Confederate troops, while on their way to the post of danger, which call for the reprobation of the people, and punishment, prompt and stern, from the military authorities. In the present position of affairs, the country needs every arm that can strike a blow in its defence, and no pretext can justify a soldier in abandoning his command at the moment when its services are most likely to be required. We trust that the offence that has been committed against military discipline will be visited with a penalty proportioned to the injury that it inflicts upon the cause, and that there may be no more reports of troops ‘at the time of going into action.