My wife was a refugee in Richmond, therefore I made my way to that city. I wore the uniform in which I surrendered, having on this coat, and coming out of Fourth street to the corner of Broad, I met the provost guard in command of a lieutenant, who accosted me: ‘Don't you know it is against orders to wear those buttons?’ and before allowing me time to respond, ordered his men to cut them off, and the soldiers performed the operation. When it was over I said: ‘Well, that is the bravest act I have witnessed since I have been in Richmond.’ The ‘brave’ officer warned me to say no more on penalty of arrest. I was under parole, and it was a humiliating oppression, which I knew General Grant would have scorned; but I have forgiven all of my enemies, and have since made many dear friends among those who wore the blue uniform. Since the day of parole, I have always endeavored to follow the advice of General Lee, and be a good citizen of the United States.
