I came to this place several days ago, fully expecting to find a
letter here for me from father. As yet I have received none. It was my
intention to have returned to Galena last evening, but the Governor
detained me, and I presume will want me to remain with him until all
the troops are called into service, or those to be so called, are
fully mustered in and completely organized. The enthusiasm throughout
this state surpasses anything that could have been imagined three
weeks ago. Only six regiments are called for here, while at least
thirty could be promptly raised. The Governor, and all others in
authority, are harassed from morning until night with patriotic men,
and such political influence as they can bring, to obtain first
promises of acceptance of their companies, if there should be another
call for troops. The eagerness to enter companies that were accepted
by the Governor, was so great that it has been impossible for
Commanders of companies to keep their numbers within the limits of the
law, consequently companies that have arrived here have all had from
ten to sixty men more than can be accepted. The Legislature on
Saturday last passed a bill providing for the maintenance and
discipline of these surplus troops for one month, unless sooner
mustered into service of the United States under a second call.--I am
convinced that if the South knew the entire unanimity of the North for
the Union and maintenance of Law, and how freely men and money are
offered to the cause, they would lay down their arms at once in humble
submission. There is no disposition to compromise now. Nearly every
one is anxious to see the Government fully tested as to its strength,
and see if it is not worth preserving. The conduct of eastern Virginia
has been so abominable through the whole contest that there would be a
great deal of disappointment here if matters should be settled before
she is thoroughly punished. This is my feeling, and I believe it
universal. Great allowance should be made for South Carolinians, for
the last generation have been educated, from their infancy, to look
upon their Government as oppressive and tyrannical and only to be
endured till such time as they might have sufficient strength to
strike it down. Virginia, and other border states, have no such excuse
and are therefore traitors at heart as well as in act. I should like
very much to see the letter Aunt Rachel wrote Clara! or a copy of it.
Can't you send it?
When I left Galena, Julia and the children were very well. Jesse had
been very sick for a few days but was getting much better. I have been
very anxious that you should spend the summer with us. You have never
visited us and I don't see why you can't. Two of you often travel
together, and you might do so again, and come out with Clara. I do not
like to urge anything of the kind, lest you should think that I
ignored entirely the question of economy, but I do not do so. The fact
is I have had my doubts whether or not it would not be more prudent
for all of you to lock up and leave, until the present excitement
subsides. If father were younger and Simpson strong and healthy, I
would not advise such a course. On the contrary, I would like to see
every Union man in the border slave states remain firm at his post.
Every such man is equal to an armed volunteer at this time in defence
of his country. There is very little that I can tell you that you do
not get from the papers. Remember me to all at home and write to me at
once, to this place.