“My Bible teaches, ‘Let every soul be subject to the higher powers, for there is no power but of God; the powers that be, are ordained of God. Whosoever, therefore, resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God; and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.’ I have seen no reason for resistance to the government under which we have, as a nation, so long prospered.”
“I command you to hush, sir; you shan’t preach treason to me, and if you get your deserts you will be hung immediately. Have you ever been within the Federal lines?”
“I have, sir.”
“At what points?”
“At Rienzi and Iuka.”
“When were you at Iuka?”
“On last Saturday.”
“Had the Federals a large force at that place, and who was in command?”
“They have a large force, and Generals Thomas and Steadman are in command.”
“That is contrary to the reports of our scouts, who say that there are but two regiments in the town. I fear you are purposely trying to mislead us.”