ehead, who, on the outbreak of the Rebellion, were the first to
leave home, the first to arrive in Boston, and subsequently, under my
command, the first to leave the yard of the Naval Academy at Annapolis,
to repair and relay the track in the march through Maryland to relieve
the beleaguered capitol of the Nation."

On the morning after the departure of the companies, thirty more men
left Marblehead to join them. The greatest enthusiasm prevailed
throughout the town, and men everywhere were ready and anxious to
enlist. Of the patriotic spirit of the people, no better evidence can be
given than that contained in the reply of Governor Andrew to a gentleman
who asked him if any more men would be needed. "For heaven's sake,"
replied the governor, "don't send any more men from Marblehead, for it
is imposing on your goodness to take so many as have already come!"

The citizens were not less prompt to act than those who had rallied for
the defence of the nation. On the 20th of April, a town meeting was held
to provide for the families of the soldiers, and the old town hall was
crowded to repletion. Mr. Adoniram C. Orne was chosen moderator. The
venerable town clerk, Capt. Glover Broughton, a veteran of the War of
1812, was there beside the moderator, his hands tremulous with emotion,
awaiting the action of his fellow-citizens. "It was voted that the town
treasurer be authorized to hire the sum of five thousand dollars, to be
distributed for the relief of the families of those who have gone or
are going to fight the battles of their country." A committee of five
persons was chosen to repair to the assessors' room and report the
names of ten persons to act as distributors of the fund. The town was
divided into districts, and the following gentlemen were chosen as a
distributing committee, namely: Messrs, Thomas Main, John J. Lyon,
Frederick Robinson, William Courtis, William Litchman, Stephen Hathaway,
Jr., James J.H. Gregory, John C. Hamson, Jr., Richard Tutt, Joshua O.
Bowden.

No resolutions were adopted. The times called for action, and "_Factis
non verbis_." was the motto of the hour. But human nature must find
some vent for enthusiasm, and we are informed in the records, by the
faithful clerk, that "three cheers were then given." They probably shook
the building for genuine Marble-headers are blessed with strong lungs,
and can never cheer by rule.

The patriotism of the ladies of Marblehead at this time and throughout