Editorial Paragraphs.
The delay in the issue of our January number was caused by the pressure of work on our worthy printers, and in consequence of this delay we combine the January and February numbers under one cover.
We are sure that our readers will not object to this, especially as we pre- sent them a number of more than ordinary variety, interest and value.
Renewals have been coming in with gratifying progress, but there are many of our friends from whom we have not yet heard. We send this number to many whose subscriptions have expired, in the confident expectation that they will promptly send us $3 for 1884. But if we should be disappointed in this, and any, from whatever cause, decline to renew, we hope they will at least have the grace to notify us of the fact, and return (or pay for) the numbers to which they are not entitled.
Several model letters, selected at random from the large number we fire daily receiving, will serve to show something of the appreciation of our friends for the work in which we are engaged.
A reverend friend, who did faithful and warmly appreciated work in one of the brigades of the Army of Northern Virginia, writes as follows on a postal card:
"Have not the most remote idea of not renewing my subscription. Will remit early in January. Fraternally, ."
Another gallant soldier writes as follows:
"Rev. J. William Jones, D. D.,
"Secretary Southern Historical Society, Richmond, Fa.:,br>
"Dear Sir, — Inclosed I hand you draft for ten dollars ($10), to be placed
to my credit for subscription to the Southern Historical Papers. I
know I am in arrears, but do not know how much. One thing I do know,
and that is I do not want to be denied the pleasure of reading the Papers
every month. Whenever I am behind, jog me up.
"If the enclosed is worthy a place among the Papers it is at your service. Or if it will better grace the waste basket, I am agreeable.
"Very truly yours, ."
We need scarcely add that the article sent will find an early place in our Papers.
The following has the "true ring":
"Rev. J. Wm. Jones, Secretary:
"Dear Sir,—Your card of 17th inst. just received. I at once enclose and
