The commissioners, Messrs. Johnson and Lewis, were at Fort Wayne at the time; and I had not the benefit of their advice. As soon as order was restored, the canal board took more decided steps in their regulations. They now require each contractor to dismiss any laborer who may engage in a broil and to give his name to the engineers so that he may not be employed on the line.

The militia turned out on the first moment’s warning; many of the men just happened to be in town and marched off without any preparation whatever. They had of necessity to be supplied with money and provisions for their subsistence. These were furnished by many of the contractors and people on the line. Amongst those incurring the greatest expense was Captain Elias Murray, of Huntington; he took command of the temporary garrison at Lagro, assisted the civil authority in making the arrests, and, with his company, marched the prisoners to Indianapolis. He was engaged some three weeks in the service.

Colonel John Spencer, of Fort Wayne, who headed the militia from that city, and General John Tipton, who was active in forwarding the volunteer companies from Logansport, paid a large portion of the expenses. One of the prisoners who had been sent to Indianapolis was arrested on his return to the canal line, was convicted, and was sent to the penitentiary. On his way there he escaped from Mr. Johnson, the sheriff, who offered a reward of $100.00 and paid it for his apprehension. Wabash County was also at great expense in sending the prisoners to Indianapolis. Other persons on the line were also at much expense in money and provisions.

This expenditure was absolutely necessary for the preservation of order; it was the means of saving many human lives by preventing at least seven hundred armed and highly exasperated men from fighting a battle. It was also the means of preventing a total suspension of canal work which might have ensued for the greater part of the season since July. It would, therefore, be very desirable indeed if some provision could be made by law to remunerate those persons who have been at so great expense.

Some of the bills for the money expended are in the possession of the Board of Canal Commissioners. But, as they have only a small part, the appointment of some person to hear and examine claims and to authorize payment is respectfully suggested. The selection of a member of the Board of Fund Commissioners, who had no part in these transactions and would therefore constitute an impartial tribunal, is also suggested. As the matter in question grew out of the operations on the Canal, and as the commissioners have the funds in their possession, such an appointment would seem to be suitable.

With great respect, David Burr

Transcriber’s Notes