Baltimore, November 28, 1859.
A. P. Shutt, Harper's Ferry.
Some of the conductors report, that there have been attempts made by numbers of volunteers at Harper's Ferry, armed with guns, &c., to go through our passenger trains there, on arrival, in supposed search of suspicious persons.
As this is not only an unnecessary step for the ends of justice, as well as a great annoyance to passengers—especially ladies—you must see that it is not allowed, except under extraordinary circumstances, that might require or justify it. If one vigilant man, unarmed, would go quietly through the train, without any unnecessary excitement, it ought to answer all practical and proper purposes. Please confer with the commanding officers and see that our wishes are respected in this matter.
W.P. SMITH.
SOURCE: B. H. Richardson, Annapolis, Maryland,
Publisher, Correspondence Relating to the Insurrection at Harper's
Ferry, 17th October, 1859, p. 56
