oldest sister. In the letter referred to, the aunt writes, "If
you are with the accursed Lincolnites, the ties of consanguinity shall
be forever severed."]

Springfield,
April 29th, 1861.

DEAR SISTER:

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