io8 CONFEDERATE PORTRAITS
Beauregard's thought was really first and foremost for his country.
Words are perhaps hardly sufficient evidence of this ; yet some of his words have an energy and a genuineness which it is difficult to resist. "I have not time, if I were so disposed, to favor friends or persecute enemies. My soul and body are in this contest, which is one of life and death to a nation of which I, my family, and friends form a part. I believe and hope that my love of country is un- sullied by personal considerations." ^s
Words were by no means all, however. In the general's own narrative of his first meeting with A. S. Johnston note how instinctive pleasure in taking part in a "scene" is mingled with really noble and patriotic feeling. ** When General Johnston first met me at Corinth, he proposed, after our staff had retired, to turn over the command of the united forces to me ; but I positively declined, on his account and that of the * cause,' telling him that I had come to assist, but not to supersede him, and ofTeri'ng to give him all the assistance in my power. He then con- cluded to remain in command. It was one of the most
There are other incidents about which there was no scene and no display whatever. Thus, after Bragg had been put in his commander's place, Beauregard writes to the War Department, offering to submit his plan of campaign, which he believed meant victory, for Bragg's use.30 Again, Jordan wrote begging his chief to refuse
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