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� 188 July 1862

I learn that the people of Maine are beginning to wake up to the importance of the crisis. Sometimes it has seemed to us as though they were not much interested in the success of our troops as though it made little difference to them whether our small but courageous band all perished in the troubles before Richmond, or victoriously own the city. Orators trumpet-tongued and eloquent ascend the rostrum and boastfully assure the people that their resources are more than adequate to the small task of suppressing this cruel rebellion -- that their foe is weak in number, in resources and in courage, and that ere many months have elapsed the rebellion will be forever crushed. The people go away puffed up with pride and conceit. Full of confidence they resume the customary avocations, gracefully receiving