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The victorious achievement — the repulse of the division of
Major-General Breckinridge by the troops led by
General Williams, and the destruction of the mail-clad
Arkansas by
Captain Porter, of the navy — is made sorrowful by the fall of our brave, gallant, and successful fellow soldier.
General Williams graduated at
West Point in 1837; at once joined the Fourth Artillery in
Florida, where he served with distinction; was thrice brevetted for gallant and meritorious services in
Mexico as a member of
General Scott's staff.
His life was that of a soldier, devoted to his country's service.
His country mourns in sympathy with his wife and children, now that country's care and precious charge.
We, his companions in arms, who had learned to love him, weep the true friend, the gallant gentleman, the brave soldier, the accomplished officer, the pure patriot and victorious hero, and the devoted
Christian.
All and more went out when
Williams died.
By a singular felicity the manner of his death illustrated each of these generous qualities.
The chivalric American gentleman, he gave up the vantage of the cover of the houses of the city — forming his lines in the open field — lest the women and children of his enemies should be hurt in the fight.
A good general, he had made his dispositions and prepared for battle at the break of day, when he met his foe.
A brave soldier, he received the death-shot leading his men.
A patriot hero, he was fighting the battle of his country, and died as went up the cheer of victory.
A Christian, he sleeps in the hope of the
Blessed Redeemer.
His virtues we cannot exceed — his example we may emulate — and mourning his death, we pray “may our last end be like his.”
The customary tribute of mourning will be worn by the officers in the department.
By command of
