The officer could only offer the broken “Southron” a pair of mules and an army wagon; and this shabby outfit, which four years ago he would not have permitted his body servant to use, he gratefully accepted for his wife and daughter!
Reid describes a poignant moment where a formerly wealthy citizen accepts a meager offer of transportation from an officer, illustrating the drastic changes in social status due to the war.
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We are all washed under, and the most of us only live peaceable lives by the sufferance of our Rebel neighbors.
In November nothing could exceed the hatred which seemed everywhere felt to the freedmen.
And next, shall we not probably fare best in the end if we try to profit somewhat by the experience others have had in like cases?
Public sentiment was against the sale of lands to the Yankees; “Get white laborers,” they urged, “and in a year you’ll make enough to be able to hold on to your lands.