Mobile Register

June 30, 1861

Page 1

 

            CAMP JOKES—It is said that Gen. Magruder, in command at Yorktown, is not a member of the temperance society, and the boys, who are sometimes rather dry, have not failed to discover that fact, and perhaps to speak pretty freely of it sometimes.  Among these was private Winship Stedman, of this town.  On the day after Stedman had performed an act of great gallantry in the scouting party from Bethel Church, he was confounded at a peremptory order to appear before the General, enforced by a section of soldiers.  He was unable to decide whether he was to be shot or reprimanded, till he reached the General’s tent, and was sternly addressed thus: “Private Stedman, I understand that you have said that old Magruder drinks all the liquor in Yorktown, and won’t let you have a drop.  You shall say so no longer, sir.  Walk in and take a drink.  I commend you for your bravery.”

--Fayetteville Observer--