On these fields Americanism, in its highest and holiest sense, was illustrated and illuminated. Here a colossal column of men marched to death, testifying thereby the very highest expression of patriotism--love of country. For greater love hath no man that this, that he lay down his life for his friends. It is to this spot you have come--a place which is, and should be, the mecca of all lovers of patriotism, self-sacrifice and lofty devotion to duty. And these have not been lost, and will not be, for as the blood of the martyrs was the seed and the seal of the church, so the blood and the bravery of the soldiers of the North and the South have already cemented this Republic in a closer union. There has been a good deal said here, sir, to-day about peace. He who fought ceased warfare when the war ended. 'Tis true it was waged with great energy by warriors. After Lee told his boys to go home, and Grant said, "Let us have peace," these warriors, after the war, were like that chaplain in Early's army, who was seen going to the rear, while the battle was raging in front. Early met him and asked him where he was going. "To the rear--to the hospital department," said he. "Why not stay in the front?" said old Jubal, "for I have heard you urging my men for the last six months to prepare to go to heaven, and now you have an opportunity to go to heaven yourself, and you are dodging to the rear." These men who want war and talk war now had the opportunity to take part, but most of them did not feel so inclined when the battle raged fast and furious.