Maitland, James M., 1815-1864 to Elhanan M. Mast

Tells his brother-in-law, Lieutenant Colonel Mast, that he recently received letters from his son, Joseph Maitland, dated 6 and 12 July. Joseph reported that he was near Jackson, Mississippi, where there were ongoing skirmishes (as part of Sherman's corps, he had followed Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston's from Black River to Jackson). Describes Joseph's experience at Jackson, including a lack of water and standing for hours in the heat. Of news closer to home, writes, "John Morgan has been captured at last he was captured on Sunday near New Lisbon, Columbiana County, with all his staff. he baffled his pursuers for two weeks. I consider it a great Victory on the part of the Union cause, for he certainly was a very mischievous and dangerous adversary." Notes that Colonel Benjamin P. Runkle was in pursuit of Morgan, but is not sure whether Runkle can be credited with Morgan's capture. Complains that officials have no idea when the draft will be enforced in his county: "the draft should be put in force forthwith and fill up the Old Regiments crush out the war at once." In a post script, comments on the death of John Jordan Crittenden, a former U. S. Attorney General, Governor of Kentucky, and United States Senator.