he first loyal man
in the border counties who condemns it. They are also warm in
their support of Genl. Ewing, and deprecate his removal. I am
satisfied he is acting wisely and efficiently. . . .

"The radicals in Missouri condemn him (Ewing) as one of my friends;
the conservatives, because he is a Kansas man, and more especially
because of his order No. 11, and similar reasons and radical
measures. For a time this will weaken me very much, and possibly
may cause my overthrow. This risk I must take, because I am
satisfied I am doing the best for the public good, and acting
according to my instructions from the President. I seem in a fair
way to reach one of the positions referred to in the President's
letter of instructions, viz: That in which both factions will
abuse me. According to the President's standard, this is the only
evidence that I will ever have that I am right. It is hardly
possible that I will ever reach a point where both will commend
me. . . .

"_Sept_. 8--Went to Independence yesterday, in company with Genl.
Ewing; . . . made a few remarks to quite a large assemblage of
people, which were well received; was followed by Genl. Ewing in
an appropriate speech, which produced a good effect.

"Have determined to modify General Ewing's order, or rather he will
modify it at my suggestion, so that no property shall be destroyed.
I deem the destruction of property unnecessary and useless. The
chief evil has resulted from the aid given to guerillas in the way
of information conveyed by disloyal people, and by preparing their
food for them. This evil is now removed. Forage and grain cannot
be destroyed or carried away to such an extent as materially to
cripple them. I will as far as possible preserve the property of
all loyal people, with the view of permitting them to return as
soon as the guerillas shall be driven out. Property of known rebels
will be appropriated as far as possible to the use of the army and
loyal people who are made destitute. None will be destroyed.

"Had a long interview this morning with Mayor Anthony of Leavenworth
and a number of influential citizens of that place. Anthony was
arrested and sent to this place yesterday by a detective in the
employ of Genl. Ewing. The arrest was without authority, and Genl.
Ewing promptly discharged the mayor. The object of the citizens
was to obtain a revocation of martial law in Leavenworth, and come
to a correct understanding as to