Camp White, June 14, 1863.
Dear Uncle: — I received yours dated the 4th last night. I see by the Sentinel that you are a bank president, one of the “moneyed aristocracy” of the land.
No taking of Vicksburg yet. I still think we must get it soon. Vallandigham for governor? Pretty bold move. Rather rash if it is considered that forty to sixty thousand soldiers will probably vote. I estimate that about as many will vote for Vallandigham as there are deserters in the course of a year’s service — from one to five per cent. A foolish (or worse) business, our Democratic friends are getting into. I don’t like arbitrary or military arrests of civilians in States where the law is regularly administered by the courts, but no issue can be made on such questions while the Rebellion is unconquered, and it’s idle to attempt it.
Lucy and all the family are on a steamboat a few miles below here, and will be up this afternoon. We have had no trouble from Rebels since their repulse at Fayette, so I think they will be quite comfortable here.
15th. — Mother Webb and Lucy, with all the boys, are here. Boys are delighted.
Sincerely,
R. B. Hayes.
S. Birchard.
