Although apparently written by a man, this poem expresses perfectly the fierce patriotism exhibited by many Southern women throughout the War. Asked once why the Confederate Army refused to surrender when it seemed apparent even in the South that defeat was imminent, an old veteran replied (not necessarily in jest) that the soldiers had been afraid to go home and admit to their womenfolk that they'd lost.

"Would'st Thou Have Me Love Thee?"

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Last modified 16-April-2001