Old Courthouse, Lynchburg, Virginia.

“ … The struggle on our part is for existence itself, and the question is, whether the Confederate States shall remain free, self-governing communities, or become territorial appendages of an odious Northern despotism, — ruled by Northern governors, and overrun by Northern tax gatherers and escheators. In this struggle, we will most assuredly prevail. The duration of the struggle, however, and the amount of suffering consequent on it, will depend on the promptness with which the people will respond to the call of the Government for troops. To stand aloof in this struggle is to give aid and comfort to the enemy … (signed) J.A. Early, Brig. Gen. (Army of the Potomac)”

– Excerpt of recruitment letter, The Daily Virginian, 22 February 1862.