_Sept. 30._ I have just read yours on the "corn question." I have told
Government Superintendents, when the people refuse or neglect to bring
their corn to the corn-house, not to interfere with them until it is
all broken in;[145] then to tell them how much is expected from them,
and give them a certain length of time to bring it in. If it is not
done, get a "guard" from the "Jail," and go to their houses and take
it. Of course the superintendent is to use a sound discretion in
making his demand, making due allowance for failure of "crop," etc.
Your plan is in my opinion open to serious objections as a matter of
_expediency_. I have no doubt that there are people on your places
whom you would be well rid of. If you can endure them patiently a
little while longer, I think it will be to your advantage to do so.
The Government is commencing at once the erection of a large number of
houses, and after they are finished those turbulent and unruly people
may be disposed of without the scandal and excitement which would
otherwise accompany their removal. After this season is terminated,
you can refuse any longer to employ such persons, and the Government
having then provided homes for them, there will be no longer an excuse
for boring you with them.
Mr. Philbrick's advice was as follows: