The bitterness of the answers of the Southern Governors from the Border States yet in the Union amazed the President at Washington.
His demand for troops was refused in tones of scorn and defiance.
Governor Magoffin of Kentucky replied:
"The State will furnish no troops for the wicked purpose of subduing her sister Southern States."
Governor Harris telegraphed from Nashville:
"The State of Tennessee will not furnish a single man for coercion, but fifty thousand if necessary for the defense of her rights."
The message of Governor Ellis of North Carolina was equally emphatic:
"I will be no party to this wicked violation of the laws of our country, and to this war upon the liberties of a free people."
Governor Rector of Arkansas replied:
"Your demand adds insult to injury."