Head Quarters Camp of Instruction
Benton Barracks Oct 9th 1861
John McCune Esq1
Prest Keokuk & St Louis Packet Co
Sir
I am informed by an officer of the mail service that you have reproached him for expressing Union sentiments and denouncing secession in the presence of the passengers on your boats.
I wish to know of you whether it is your purpose to conduct your boats on such terms of equality, and especially, whether you are going to foster in any way, sentiments of rebellion and insolence towards officers of the United States Government whose duty it is at all times & in all places to vindicate our National Government.
Very Respectfully
Your obdt Servt
Saml R Curtis
Brig Geni Commanding Post
[copy]
1. McCune may possibly have been a Keokuk acquaintance of Curtis’.