REMARKS IN THE SENATE, ON THE WITHDRAWAL OF A PETITION FROM CITIZENS OF
VIRGINIA, MAY 24, 1866.
Mr. Trumbull, of Illinois, recently presented a petition
from citizens of Augusta County, Virginia, which was duly
referred, stating that the Union men in that locality were
without protection from the local authorities, and asking
that the military power be not withdrawn. The petition caused
excitement in the neighborhood, accompanied by threats. Mr.
Trumbull had asked to withdraw the petition and return it to
the petitioners, “that they may protect themselves, as far as
this will enable them to do so, against the accusations which
have been brought upon them,” and expressed his regret that he
could not propose some measure for their protection.