Raleigh,
April 16, 1865.
Flags of
truce are still flying between Sherman and Johnston. The latter is, I believe,
some 30 miles west of Hillsboro. Some of Sherman's staff went out last night to
offer the same terms that were offered to Lee, and are expected every hour with
Johnston's answer. Everybody thinks Johnston will accept and many are offering
to bet their all that we will be mustered out by July 4th, 1865.
I am trying
to take the matter coolly and determined not to be very much disappointed if
the result is different from what we all hope. We will be either ready to march
to-morrow morning or to hang our swords on the wall. Hundreds of Johnston's men
are coming into our lines. If he don't surrender his men will all desert. A
lovely day. Disposes one to peace wonderfully. It is most difficult to realize
that our war is over. I do from my heart thank God that I have lived to see the
rebellion put down. Anyone who has been with us the last year and is
alive should be thankful. The whole four years seems to me
more like a dream than reality. How anxious I am to shake hands with you all once
more. "How are you peace?"
SOURCE:
Charles Wright Wills, Army Life of an Illinois Soldier, p. 371
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