William Schouler, A history of Massachusetts in the Civil War: Volume 1

‘ [135] all sound policy and even humanity requires that it be vigorously sustained, and that we show ourselves capable of maintaining the honor, dignity, and safety of our country.’ General Devereux had three sons officers in the war, one of whom was brevetted a general.

April 16.—General Nettleton, of Chicopee, writes, ‘I hereby tender to His Excellency the Governor, and through him to the President, my personal services to any appointed post in the gift of either. I cannot, by reason of age, be admitted to the ranks by enlistment; yet I am hearty and hale, and not older than my grandsire was when following the lead of Washington.’ General Nettleton's son raised a company for the Thirtieth Regiment, of which he went out captain, and came home colonel of the regiment.

April 17.—Edward Kinsley, of Cambridge, writes, ‘The patriotic ladies of Cambridge are making bandages and preparing lint for our troops who have been ordered out of the State. A box will be ready to-morrow morning. Please tell the bearer where you will have it sent.’ Colonel Borden, of Fall River, writes, ‘The “Empire State” will be let at a thousand dollars a day; the “State of Maine,” for eight hundred.’ George B. Upton, of Boston, writes that he had made a ‘contract with the agents of the “S. R. Spaulding” to take troops to Fortress Monroe at twelve dollars each. The vessel will be ready in eight hours after notice is received.’

April 18.—E. C. Peirce, of Weymouth, writes, ‘If the services of an active horse and rider as courier are required for any distance, great or small, let me know.’ Daniel Denny, of Boston, writes, ‘I have three spacious lofts, No. 142, Fulton Street, quite light and airy, which I freely offer for the use of the military. Being considerably more than forty-five years old, I fear my personal services would not be accepted if offered.’ Captain Peard, of Milford, writes, ‘I offer my company, the “Davis Guards,” all of whom are adopted citizens, for the service.’ This company was accepted, and formed part of the Ninth Regiment, of which Captain Peard was commissioned major. He died in the service.

The following letter is from one of the most noble and highly