“3. And as you think preaching would be a violation of said order, I have ceased preaching since I have heard of this order. And a private citizen is not required to take that oath, yourself being judge.
“4. As a private individual I have taken the oath of allegiance, a copy of which I have; and,
“5. I have not at any time, and do not design violating that order, and with this assurance I hope I shall not be hurried in this matter.
“Respectfully, H. N. Watts.”
Mr. Watts addressed the following letter to the Provost-Marshal General, St. Louis:
“Charleston, Mo., March 18, 1864.
“J. P. Sanderson, Pro.-Marshal Gen’l, St. Louis, Mo.:
“Dear Sir—Special Order No. 61, from your office, dated the 7th inst., ‘concerning religious convocations, synods, councils, conferences, or assemblies under any other name or title,’ not being understood as to the extent of its application, will you be kind enough to answer the following inquiries:
“1. Under these terms, ‘convocations, synods, &c., or assemblies under any other name or title,’ does this include congregational worship, or a congregation met in open church, with free seats, for preaching and other public services? and will each one so assembled be required to take the oath prescribed in Special Order No. 61?
“2. When an assembly of divines have met to transact the business of the Church, and have taken the prescribed oath, are they expected then to oppose secession and treason publicly from the pulpit, or only in private circles?