To-day as a squad was drawn up in front of us, waiting for
clothing, I saw an Irishman in the ranks who looked familiar. Looked at him for
some time and finally thought I recognized in him an old neighbor of mine in
Jackson Michigan; one Jimmy Devers, a whole souled and comical genius as ever
it was my fortune to meet. Went up to him and asked what regiment he belonged
to; said he belonged to the 23d Indiana, at which I could not believe it was my
old acquaintance. Went back to my work Pretty soon he said to me: “Ain't you
Johnny Ransom?” And then I knew I was right. He had lived in Jackson, but had
enlisted in an Indiana regiment. Well, we were glad to see one another and you
may just bet that Jimmy got as good a suit of clothes as ever he had in our own
lines. Jimmy is a case; was captured on the 1st day of July at the Gettysburg
battle, and is consequently an old prisoner. Is very tough and hardy. Says the
Johnny Rebs have a big contract on their hands to kill him. But I tell him to
take good care of himself anyway, as there is no knowing what he will be called
upon to pass through yet.
SOURCE: John L. Ransom, Andersonville Diary, p.
19
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