Page:The military and civil history of Connecticut during the war of 1861-65 - comprising a detailed account of the various regiments and batteries, through march, encampment, bivouac (IA 00359433.3197.emory.edu).pdf/507

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FINE CONDITION OF THE TWENTY-FIRST.
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bits so dear to the sick soldiers. Not satisfied with prepar- ing them, she administers them, talking all the time to the delighted men as only a great, good woman of that age and such motherly feelings can talk.”

Surgeon Mayer, the successor of Dr. Abner S. Warner of Wethersfield, wrote of this time, “Gradually, the finest camp, which it has been my fortune to see, grew up. The most perfect order, the most civilized condition, prevailed. The tent: were neatly and prettily furnished, as our Connecticut country homes are, and the ground always in beautiful condition. ils winter approached, the men built a hospital of loys - log-houses for the officers, log kitchens and eating-saloons for the companies. Our pioneers erected a perfect village.

During all these weeks, the military standing of the regi- ment rose perceptibly. There was not a cleaner, prompter, more loyal, reliable, and honest regiment in the service. No brighter arnis, no quicker cvolutions, no greater perfection in drill, were to be found anywhere."

The Twenty-first had been assigned to provost-duty in Portsmouth, — rather more agreeable service. Major Hiram B. Crosby was appointed provost-marshal. Col. Dutton, hay- ing been released from the command of the 3d Brigade, again assumed command of the regiment. “ Lieut.-Col. Thomas F. Burpee, who had been absent several weeks, returned with restored healtlı, and entered upon his duties with his usual energy, and did much toward bringing the regiment up to a high standard of excellence and perfection."[1]

In September, the regiment was inspected by Col. Donohoe of a New-York regiment, from whose report the following is an extract:--

“ The clothing of the men is in very fine order; coats fit well, and are well taken care of. I believe that the general appearance of the regiment is equal, if not superior, to any that I have ever inspected. The officers appear to good advantage; and the non-commissioned officers deserve credit for their neat appearance and soldierly bearing. In conclusion, I can safely say, that the condition and general appear-

  1. Letter of Capt. Delos D. Brown of Chatham.