Alexander McClure refers to the Union loss at Manassas as a "sad chapter in our National History," and he bemoans the difficulties in allowing the most promising soldiers to rise to the top of their ranks.
McClure telegraphs Slifer, saying that he is unable to leave Chambersburg.
McClure briefly describes his plan to increase local enlistment by allowing volunteers to train near home under the command of a familiar leader.
McClure expresses reluctance to leave home until he knows of the safety of the border near the Potomac and asks for news.
McClure comments on the merits of several different soldiers, and expresses his determination to meet the required number of enlisted men for his county.
McClure writes of the difficulties he has encountered while trying to enlist men across the county.
McClure writes that all the newly enlisted men from the county want to be placed in the same regiment.
McClure's letter refers to a court case in Fulton county, and a military appropriations bill McClure would like to see put through the state Senate.
McClure discusses defensive preparations being made in the county should Confederate troops cross into Union territory. He also writes about an upcoming election.
McClure writes about an upcoming meeting in Washington.
McClure asks Slifer what he know about Senator Montgomery and requests information on the Pennsylvania quota.
McClure writes to Slifer requesting details regarding certain claims made for damages after a Confederate raid.
McClure writes to Governor Curtin of the merits of a particular officer from Franklin county, and argues that the county should be entitled to more companies.
McClure requests Stevens's opinion on the prospects of Lincoln in the upcoming presidential election.
McClure writes to Slifer after the battles at Spotsylvania Court House, promising to find information about Slifer's son.
McClure's letter expresses confidence that he will win in the upcoming election for the Pennsylvania state legislature.
McClure's letter refers to final election returns.
McClure writes of the prospects for the post-war economic situation, as well as rebuilding his house.
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