Mounting the breastworks

[Abrams]

This is an excerpt from 'General Lee's Army' by Joseph T. Glatthaar that I found particularly amusing on page 272, and thought I would share it. This took place while in Pennsylvania on the way to Gettysburg.

"Soldiers usually treated the residents respectfully, except when locals acted a bit too forceful in their support of the Union. According to the British military observer Lt. Col. Arthur Fremantle, one Pennsylvanian woman, adorned with a minurature flag affixed to her blouse, cast contemptuous glances at Confederate troops as they marched past. Finally, a Texan had enough. Pointing his finger at the woman he announced, "Take care, madam, for Hood's boys are great at storming breastworks when Yankee colors is on them." She retreated into her home.

When I related this to a co-worker, she unfortunately did not know what "breastworks" were, and it loses something when it has to be explained, heh. I figured this may be the correct crowd to appreciate the humor of that Texan.

I am finding it a good read, and full of good info, stories and anecdotes. I recommend it.

[yeoman]

Re: Mounting the breastworks

Sir, your quote has brought on a full coffee sip chortle this morning, thanks.