Franklin County: Alexander K. McClure to Eli Slifer,
July 31, 1862
Summary:
McClure writes of the difficulties he has encountered while trying to enlist men
across the county.
A. K. McClure, July 31st
July 31
Chambersburg
Dear Col-
I just returned hom at 3 1/2 this morning after a three days trip canvassing for
recruits. We will, I doubt not raise three full companies of 100 men, and it may
be four, [unclear: wether] the time be united by your last order. We
will certainly need 350 men. We could raise full 500 men in twenty days had not
the nine mos call been countermanded. After our nine
mos men shall leave. I shall despair of
additional recruits here. If men must be had, they must be drafted. If our
county is
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a fair [unclear: criterion] of the State. Could you
not order the militia enrolled prepatory to a draft? Perhaps such a move would
make men enlist. It would certainly make every man [illeg.] a military
duty interested in having volunteers come forward.
I must be here until the companies are raised and started. They look to me for information & counsel at Every step & I cannot leave. Write me [unclear: when] matters move.
Truly Thine
AKMcClure
Col Eli Slifer
