How did the Union soldiers treat Jane?

The first chapter presents Miss Jane Pittman as a child and slave working for her mistress. When Yankees soldier pass by the house where she lives, she is asked what her name is. When the child says her name is Ticey, a slave name, a corporal named Brown tells her that she should change her name to a non-slave name and even suggest the name Jane, like her daughter. The corporal also tells her that she should visit him in Ohio after she will be freed from slavery before leaving with the other soldiers.