CINCINNATI, April 20, 1860 [1861].
DEAR UNCLE:—. . . I have joined a volunteer home company to learn drill. It is chiefly composed of the Literary Club. Includes Stephenson, Meline, John Groesbeck, Judge James, McLaughlin, Beard, and most of my cronies. We wish to learn how to “eyes right and left,” if nothing more. A great state of things for Christian people, and then to have old gentlemen say, as you do, “I am glad we have got to fighting at last.” Judge Swan and Mr. Andrews and the whole Methodist clergy all say the same. Shocking! One thing: Don’t spend much on your house or furniture henceforth. Save, save, is the motto now. People who furnish for the war will make money, but others will have a time of it.
Mother thinks it is a judgment on us for our sins. Henry Ward Beecher, who is now here, says it is divine work, that the Almighty is visibly in it.
Sincerely,
R. B. HAYES.
S. BIRCHARD.