Why, according to former Confederate postmaster general and Texan John H$.$ Reagan in late $1865,$ should Texans accept defeat, renew their loyalty to the United States, abandon slavery, and recognize the right of Black people to vote?

to restore the South$$s reputation internationally

to regain the rights of citizenship, including to be able to sue in courts

to demonstrate Christian charity toward their former enemies

to resupply and fight again in another twenty years