“‘High Hill, Mo., Jan. 19, 1863.
“‘Col. J. G. Kettle, Danville, Mo.:
“‘Honored Sir: Some time ago I promised to marry a couple in this vicinity on to-morrow night, and as it will not be in violation of Gen. Merrill’s order, and will furnish me some means with which to carry out that order, will you permit me to do so?
“‘I am, very respectfully, B. H. Spencer.’
“The following is his reply:
“‘Headquarters 67th Regiment E. M. M., }
“‘Danville, Mo., Jan. 19, 1863. }
“‘Rev. B. H. Spencer:
“‘Sir: Your request to marry the couple and to preach is granted. I would say that you had better not speak of your banishment in your sermon.
“‘Yours, &c., J. G. Kettle, Colonel.’