The following extracts are from the New Orleans Times:
The soldiers formed on Government Street, and marched up Royal Street, past the Battle House, when General Granger and staff, and Chief Justice Chase, mounted on horseback, reviewed the gallant men as they marched on with the steady tramp of veterans.
On Saturday, as we marched through the place to the position assigned us on Government Street, the streets were alive with people. Men, women and children, clad in the gayest attire, were out to behold one of the grandest military pageants ever witnessed by the people of Alabama. Royal Street, in the region of the Battle House and the Custom House, was a perfect jam. I saw quite a number of Confederate officers beholding the march of our boys, and all seemed in the best of humor.
The troops remaining were of the Third Division, and were marched into the city under the command of Brevet Brig. Gen. Grier, Colonel of the 77th Illinois Volunteers. The General is a fine officer; has done his duty in this war. His Regiment under his command have made for themselves a glorious record. On many a well fought field have they carried their colors through 'shot and shell,' until a triumphant victory has crowned their efforts. Peoria may well feel proud of Brevet Brig. Gen. Grier and his gallant 77th. They have done honor to the City and State. Their time of enlistment will soon expire, and it will not be long before they are on their way to their homes. May they receive the hero's welcome they have so nobly earned.
