Hillsborough (NC) Recorder

August 14, 1861

Page 3

For the Hillsborough Recorder

Manassas Junction, July 29^th, 1861

MR. HEARTT: Sir—Since my arrival here I have heard that there is a report widely circulated in Orange (and one which I deeply regret), that I was tied and gagged at the Company Shops, and carried through Raleigh in that situation. All I have to say is, that it was a positive falsehood, started by some low lived and cowardly scoundrel, who, instead of shouldering his musket in defence [sic] of his country, has remained at home for no good purpose. I know not who it was, neither do I care; but would advise every person to keep their eye upon him, if he should ever be found out, for any one who would put such a report in circulation upon a soldier who has left home, friends, and everything near and dear to him on earth, to fight for his own and his country’s rights, is none too good to nigger trade or steal under the cover of night. I hear also that I was handcuffed in Richmond; this, like the other, is false. I hope none of my friends in old Orange believe the report. As for the manner in which I have conducted myself since my connection with the army, I leave it for others to state.

Respectfully,

ALSEY A. LEATHERS,

Company B., 6^th Infantry, N. C. State Troops

I fully endorse every word here stated by Private Leathers, and also take great pleasure in saying we have not a better soldier; he has on all occasions discharged his duty promptly, and won for himself the confidence and esteem of all the officers of the Regiment.

ROBERT F. WEBB

Major, 6^TH Infantry, N. C. State Troops

[Transcribed by Sharon Strout]