Corsicana, Texas, January 8, 1904
Mrs. James Longstreet
Gainesville, Georgia:
Madam,--Your noble defense of your great husband places beyond cavil or controversy the fame on an illustrious career.
Yesterday, as I finished reading it, the bent form of one who had followed him everywhere, “amid the fiery pang of shells,” passed, and I called him and read him the charge. “Liars! Liars!” and the light of battle passed once more into his eyes as he defended General Longstreet. Then I read him your letter, and then he cried.
You will pardon me for this intrusion on your sorrow. My father was a cavalry officer in the volunteers in Scott’s campaign in Mexico. He there formed the acquaintance of General Longstreet, and none denounced with more bitterness the statements of Pendleton.
With a sincere wish for your future happiness,
I am most respectfully,
J.C. Gaither
Source: Lee and Longstreet at High Tide
Commentary
Following is a letter sent to Mrs. Longstreet after her husband's death which demonstrates the level at which those who had fought and been associated with James Longstreet loved him and admired him, and above all, believed in him.