Camp Hayes, Raleigh, Virginia. — Before breakfast. A lovely
day. Captain Haven returned last night after an extensive scout; burned seven
empty houses — occupants gone bushwhacking. Burned none with women in them.
About noon a gentleman rode up and inquired for the colonel
commanding. He turned out to be Clifton W. Tayleure, a local editor, formerly
of Baltimore American, lately of Richmond Enquirer. Left Richmond
a week ago to avoid the draft. All between eighteen and forty-five to be
drafted to fill up the old regiments; all between sixteen and eighteen and
forty-five and fifty-five to be enrolled as home guards to protect the homes
and guard the slaves. He is a South Carolinian by birth; lived there until he
was fifteen; came North; has been a “local” in various cities since; has a
family in Baltimore; went to Richmond to look after property in August last;
couldn't get away before; got off by passes procured by good luck, etc., etc.;
is a Union man by preference, principle, etc., etc. This is his story. He is
about thirty-three years of age, of prepossessing appearance, intelligent and
agreeable. Gives us interesting accounts of things in the Capital of Secession.
Says the trades-people are anxious for peace — ready for the restoration of the
old Union. He seems to be truthful. I shall give him a pass to General Cox
there to be dealt with as the general sees fit. — Will he visit them (Colonel
Jones and General Cox) and report himself, or will he hurry by?
SOURCE: Charles Richard Williams, editor, Diary and
Letters of Rutherford Birchard Hayes, Volume 2, p. 212-3
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