State Of Iowa, Executive Office,
August 8, 1863.
Messrs. Allen Hale, Wm. Cochran and Thos. Moorman.
South English, Iowa.
Gentlemen: — I
have learned with regret the unfortunate occurrence at your place on Saturday
last, and also that there is danger of further conflict and disturbance in
consequence. I of course cannot determine where the fault is, or who are the
parties responsible, but it is very clear that this is a matter to be
determined by the court and not by a mob. If it shall turn out that Tally was
unlawfully killed, the law must show who is the guilty person, and must inflict
the punishment If a mob of his friends are permitted to determine who is
guilty, and to inflict punishment, it is just as probable that the innocent
will suffer as the guilty. Such proceedings unsettle society and render every
man's life and property insecure.
I have sent to the sheriff of Washington county forty stands
of arms and ammunition for the same, for you. These arms are intended only and
strictly for the defense of your people against any lawless attack on your town
by a mob, and for the purpose of aiding the lawful authorities in enforcing the
laws and maintaining the public peace. They must not be used for any other
purpose, or in any other manner. You must keep your people strictly on the
defensive, and clearly within the law. You must not resist the execution of
legal process, but must aid in enforcing and executing it. If you are attacked
by a mob of rioters and lawless men you will of course defend yourselves.
The public mind is much excited by the acts of mischievous
and designing men, and it becomes law abiding and peaceful citizens not to add to
this excitement. Act prudently, coolly and lawfully.
I trust the threatened danger may pass over without further
disturbance.
I have written the sheriff of your county to act in this
matter. Until his arrival I must trust to your judgment and discretion, upon
his arrival act under his authority.
Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KLRKWOOD.
SOURCE: Henry Warren Lathrop, The Life and Times of
Samuel J. Kirkwood, Iowa's War Governor, p. 248-9
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