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and the sons were considered as good and respectable young men as there [their] were in town. I don't doubt but they were dealt with according to the rules of war, but I think there must have been some fault with those holding higher places than they did else they would not have placed themselves in such a situation. I would not have troubled you with a virtue recital of this case but that many of the people hereabouts believe the soldiers have done their duty better than the officers, and right or wrong most of those persons, who knew the Barretts believe there must have been great wrong in their suspension though everyone so far as I have heard had confidence in the Colonel and his staff. I am exceedingly grateful that my friend Dr. McRuer has received an appointment. I think him at least equal to any man in the state for such a position.

Very truly your obt servant

S.B. Morrison

Hon. I. Washburn Jr.