On-the-Scene Reporting of Ransom to Gen. Early

Regarding your editorial (March 31), “Overdue Bill,” I thought you might find it interesting that according to a letter from Capt. Robert T. Cornwell, 67th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, to his wife Lillie, on Aug. 3, 1864, not all citizens of Frederick, Md., agreed with the payment of ransom to Confederate Gen. Jubal Early:

“I was yesterday thro’ Frederick City. Made a few purchases, such as socks, buckskin gloves, shaving utensils, stationery, etc. This city you know was forced on the morning of the 9th of July to pay to the Rebels $200,000 tribute money to save the town from destruction. The money was paid by the banks and the loyal citizens (to the North) refuse to contribute any portion of it. I trust they will be born out in this determination and that the whole draft will be thrown on the shoulders of Rebel Sympathizers. General Hunter since we have arrived here is forcing all disloyal people to leave the place and go south. The move creates quite a sensation in the town. Frederick City contains many loyal citizens and is noted for its pretty girls. To ride thro’ the city and witness youth and beauty display itself in the shape of fascinating and voluptuous females is enough to make me exile from ladies society whinner .”

MICHAEL COX

Anaheim