Camp 103d Illinois Infantry, Jackson, Tenn.,
February 18, 1863.
The prominent rumor to-day, and one in which there seems to be considerable stock taken, is that Governor Yates has obtained authority from the general government to have several regiments from Grant’s army returned to Illinois, as a kind of public police. That is, to repress copperheadism, enforce the collection of the taxes, etc. The sequel is: Colonel Babcock and Colonel Kellogg are now with Grant, bearing dispatches from Governor Yates to the above effect, and figuring to get certain regiments, one of which is the 103d, and that we will be in Springfield within three weeks. All very nice—but—etc. I know that if we are sent up to that copperhead infested country we will not be used for anything but to guard Rebel prisoners; and I do pray to be excused from any such “pursuit of happiness.” I would love right well to help manufacture loyal men out of some of those Illinois traitors, but am considerably suspicious of the trip. We finally got those resolutions adopted, after a speech from Colonel Dunham, without a dissenting voice, though it was by no means a unanimous vote. Don’t think that more than two-thirds voted aye, though don’t let any of the democratic friends know anything to the conrary, but that we all voted for it. The regiment is going to the d___l as fast as time will let it; though my company and Sid’s, are all right yet, and two more are tolerable. It almost gives me the blues. Don’t say a word of the above, but I can’t help writing it to you. ‘Tis so late and I’m so sleepy that I must adjourn. Was on picket last night in the rain all night.