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[195]
and this shows we are right in apprehending certain disaffected and disloyal communities which rule to some extent the sentiment of the State.”
Colonel Tilghman--“I frankly acknowledge that you have the advantage of me there.
But after my intercourse with you, and reassuring you of the groundlessness of your fears in my official capacity, it would be very inconsistent with your previous intimations, for you to credit counter rumors.
My dear sir, there are not organized fifty men in Western Kentucky, outside of my command.”
Colonel Prentiss--“As soon as our force is completely organized here, I intend to visit the other side.”
Colonel Tilghman--“We shall receive you with every kindness.
The position of Illinois and Kentucky relatively is very delicate, and on that account allow me to say that I hope you will continue in command here.
Affairs must be managed on both sides with calmness.
I think there is hardly a man in a hundred in the State of Kentucky but would fight for the old Constitution as interpreted by the Supreme Court.
I am highly gratified at this interview, and I hope to see yourself and staff over there some day.”
--Chicago Tribune, and N. Y. Evening Post, May 11.
