The death of Major John Pelham.
The following order relative to the death of Major Pelham, has been issued by Brig. Gen. Stuart:
Headquarters Cavalry Division, Army of Northern Virginia.March 20, 1863
General Orders, No. 9.--The Major General Commanding approaches with reluctance the painful duty of announcing to the Division its Irreparable loss in the death of Major John Pelham, commanding the Horse Artillery.He fell mortally wounded in the battle of Kellysville, March 17th, with the battle-cry upon his lips and the light of victory beaming from his eye.
To you, his comrades, it is needless to dwell upon what you have so often witnessed — his prowess in action always proverbial. You well know how, though young in years — a mere stripling in appearance — remarkable for his genuine modesty of deportment — he yet disclosed on the battle-field the conduct of a veteran, and displayed in his handsome person the most imperturbable coolness in danger.
His eye had glanced over every battle-field of this army, from the first Manassas to the moment of his death, and he was, with a single exception, a brilliant actor in all.
The memory of "the gallant Pelham," his many manly virtues, his noble nature, and purity of character, is enshrined as a sacred legacy in the hearts of all who knew him.
His record has been bright and spotless; his career brilliant and successful.
He fell (the noblest of sacrifices) on the altar of his country; to whose glorious service he had dedicated his life from the beginning of the war.
In token of respect for his cherished memory the horse artillery and division staff will wear the military badge of mourning for 30 days; and the senior officer of staff, Maj. Von Borcke, will place his remains in the possession of his bereaved family, to whom is tendered, in behalf of the division, the assurance of heartfelt sympathy in this deep tribulation.
In mourning his departure from his accustomed post of honor on the field, let us strive to imitate his virtues, and trust that what is loss to us may be more than gain to him.
