[683]
Resolved, That in this most unnatural contest waged against our country by a band of traitors in the Southern States, we the inhabitants of Sutton, believing that the whole strength of the country should be exerted in an official manner to put down Rebellion, call upon the Government of the United States to make no terms or compromises with traitors, but to carry on the war in such manner and with such force as will strengthen the Union sentiment which we believe still exists in portions of the rebellious States, and intimidate and overwhelm those who regardless of all obligations seek a division of our beloved country. Resolved, That we are neither the advocates of nor believers in the right of secession; that we regard the course taken by the self-styled seceding States as revolution without justifiable cause, and that the Government of this country is bound to put it down by the strong arm of force.Six thousand dollars were appropriated for the support of soldiers' families, to uniform volunteers who enlist in the military service, and to pay each one dollar a day while drilling. The treasurer was authorized to borrow the money. September 21st, The selectmen were given discretionary power to pay aid to the families of volunteers ‘as in their judgment they may require.’ 1862. July 22d, Voted, to pay a bounty of one hundred and twenty-five dollars to each volunteer who shall enlist for three years and be credited to the quota of the town. August 22d, The bounty was increased to one hundred and fifty dollars. Jason Waters, Esq., introduced a series of patriotic resolutions, favoring a vigorous prosecution of the war, which were unanimously adopted. Voted, to abate all taxes against persons who have volunteered ‘and are in the army or navy.’ 1863. November 3d, Voted, ‘to pay a bounty of—— hundred dollars to each person who will enlist to fill the quota of Sutton.’ The treasurer was authorized to borrow money for that purpose. 1864. April 13th, Voted, to pay a bounty of one hundred and twenty-five dollars to each volunteer for three years service, who shall enlist and be credited to the quota of the town under the recent call of the President for more men. This amount continued to be paid until the end of the war. The treasurer was authorized to borrow money to pay the same.
