W. H. Roosevelt to Richard Yates

Warsaw, Hancock Co Ills. May 29th 1863

Govr Yates

Dr Sir.

Our County still furnishes some cause for apprehension in regard to its quietude.

U.S. authorities have arrested two turbulent individuals of Tioga & carried them to Iowa, where they probably will be tried.

The U.S. Custom Agent for this place, last evening, detected landing from the Steamer, a Box, containing one very large & heavy Revolver & six more smaller & yet

of large size. These were directed to Mr. Couchman Chairman of the Supervisors.

Also a Lot of Powder for Dennis Smith, County Judge. They are both Copperheads.

Neither parcel, had any indication on the exterior, of its contents.

The arms came from Allen Wheelock, of Worcester Massts, The Powder from the house of Enoch Woods in Chicago who have shipped powder before to the same class of men.

The copperheads have several times before declared that they [come?] armed and ready for us. They have undoubtedly recd fighting utensils from time to time.

The Officer, McCherry, who has our full confidence, wishes me to advise you of the acts done by him & if you have any instructions or wishes upon the Subject, we will gladly receive them.

That our County may become the Theatre of serious disturbances, is the theory of the Copperheads & I should not be surprised, to find their threats realised.

Scofield, the Senator is the leading Agitator.

Our course, is to act on the defensive, we know, but our citizens will not permit any strong or offensive exhibition of Southern sympathy.

Respectfully

W H Roosevelt

R

W H Roosevelt

File 'R' evolution

Warsaw May 29 1863.

Says they are still having trouble in their county. the US Custom agent captured four revolvers addressed to Mr Couchman. also a lot of Powder from Smith, county judge. these men are both Copperheads. Says they intend to act on the defensive, and will not permit any secession demonstrations

Recd Ex O. June 1st 1863.