Greensborough Patriot
February 5, 1863
Page 3
People of Guilford: The military commander of North Carolina believing it necessary for the defense of the State, that the companies and regiments now in the state, should be filled up to their maximum number, has detailed an officer from each company to visit the counties in which their respective companies were raised to solicit men to volunteer. And the Governor of North Carolina has also issued an appeal to the people, urging them to volunteer for the defense of the State. It is evident that more soldiers are needed, and rather than you should be conscripted and assigned to companies not of your choice, the Conscript law is now partially suspended, expressly for the purpose of allowing you to volunteer and join any company you prefer.
We are here, by order of Maj. Gen. G. W. Smith to receive volunteers for our Companies, and solicit all those over 18 years of age, and able to perform military duty, to come forward and volunteer. By so doing you will receive $100.00 bounty, and be entitled to all the privileges secured by law to volunteers. Our regiments are composed of soldiers of good moral character, and are noted for their upright deportment and good behavior. If you do not volunteer now, you will positively be called for about the 1st of March, and be assigned to such companies as the Conscript Commander may think proper.
To those who are absent from their commands without permission a full pardon is now offered, if they will immediately return to their companies and commanders. And we appeal to the citizens everywhere to persuade and use their influence to induce all absentees from the army to return immediately. All persons now at home belonging to our companies are requested to report to us forthwith. We will be found at the Court House, except when absent on duty.
R. C. DONNELL, Lieut.
SAMUEL HANNER, Lieut.
Recruiting Officer
[Transcribed
by Sharon Strout]