Note: Project Gutenberg also has an HTML version of this file which includes the original illustrations. See 41528-h.htm or 41528-h.zip: (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/41528/41528-h/41528-h.htm) or (http://www.gutenberg.org/files/41528/41528-h.zip) Images of the original pages are available through Internet Archive/American Libraries. See http://archive.org/details/memoirsofveteran00hermiala [Illustration: Yours truly, I. HERMANN] MEMOIRS OF A VETERAN WHO SERVED AS A PRIVATE IN THE 60'S IN THE WAR BETWEEN THE STATES Personal Incidents, Experiences and Observations Written by CAPT. I. HERMANN Who Served in the Three Branches of the Confederate Army Atlanta. Ga.: Byrd Printing Company 1911 Copyright 1911 By I. Hermann All rights reserved INTRODUCTION. The following reminiscences after due and careful consideration, are dedicated to the young, who are pausing at the portals of manhood, as well as womanhood, and who are confronted with illusory visions and representations, the goal of which is but seldom attained, even by the fewest fortunates, and then only by unforeseen circumstances and haphazards, not illustrated in the mapped out program for future welfare, greatness and success. Often the most sanguine persons have such optimistic illusions, which, unless most carefully considered will lead them into irreparable errors. Even the political changes, often times necessary in the government of men, are great factors to smash into fragments the best and most illusory plans, and cast into the shadow, for a time being at least, the kindliest, philanthropic and best intentions of individual efforts, until the Wheel of Fortune again turns in his direction, casting a few sparks of hope in his ultimate favor, and which is seldom realized. If the reader of the above has been induced to think and carefully consider, before acting hastily, the writer feels that he has accomplished some good in the current affairs of human events. CHAPTER I. A PICTURE. Entering the post-office for my daily mail, I noticed in the lobby, hanging on the wall, a beautiful, attractive and highly colored landscape and manhood therein displayed in its perfection, gaudily dressed in spotless uniforms; some on horseback, some afoot, with a carriage as erect and healthful demeanor that the artist could undoubtedly produce; he was at his best, setting forth a life of ease and comfort that would appeal to the youngster, patriot and careless individual, that therein is a life worth living for. Even the social features have not been omitted where men and officers stand in good comradeship. Peace and repose, and a full dinner pail are the environment of the whole representation.