Sep. 4, 1862
Page 2
The Franklin (La.) Banner, of July 5th, contains the message of Governor Moore to the people of Louisiana in reference to the occupation of New Orleans by the enemy.
The Governor refers to the anomalous condition of affairs established between the citizens of New Orleans and all other towns between the occupation of the enemy, and those of country Parishes, and says the only safe rule for their guidance is absolute non-intercourse—the entire suspension of communication by visit or for trade.
In relation to the hanging of Mumford the Governor says:
The noble heroism of the patriot Mumford has placed his name high on the list of martyred sons. When the Federal navy reached New Orleans a squad of marines was sent on shore who hoisted their flag on the Mint. The city was not occupied by the United States troops, nor had they reached there. The place was not in their possession. Wm. B. Mumford pulled down the detested symbol with his own hands, and for that was condemned to be hung by Gen. Butler after his arrival. Brought in full view of the scaffold, his murderers hoped to appall his heroic soul by the exhibition of the implements of ignominious death. With the evidence of their determination to consummate their brutal purpose before his eyes, they offered him life on the condition that he would abjure his country, and swear allegiance to her foe. He spurned the offer. Scorning to stain his soul with such foul dishonor, he met his fate courageously, and has transmitted to his countrymen a fresh example of what men will do and dare when under the inspiration of fervid patriotism. I shall not forget the outrage of his murder, nor shall it pass unatoned.
The Governor concludes his message as follows:
I am not introducing any new regulations for the conduct of our citizens, but am only placing before them those that every nation at war recognizes as necessary and proper to be enforced. It is needless, therefore, to say that they will not be relaxed. On the contrary, I am but awaiting the assistance and presence of the General appointed to the Department to inaugurate the most effectual method for their enforcement. It is well to repeat them:
Trading with the enemy is prohibited under all circumstances.
Traveling to and from New Orleans, and other places occupied by the enemy, if forbidden. All passengers will be arrested.
Citizens going to those places, and returning with the enemy’s usual passport, will be arrested.
Conscripts or militiamen, having in their possession such passports, and seeking to shun duty under the pretext of a parole, shall be treated as public enemies. No such papers will be held sufficient excuse for inaction by any citizen.
The utmost vigilance must be used by the officers and citizens in the detection of spies and salaried informers, and their apprehension promptly effected.
[Transcribed by Sharon Strout]