March 21, 1862
Page 2
THE GENERAL DRAFT
The call of the Militia en-masse into the service, is likely to produce a state of things much to be deplored. The people can see nothing before them but suffering and starvation. In Nansemond county a half crop will not be planted, unless the militia are discharged sooner than we anticipate. Corn is now commanding $1 per bushel, and bacon 25 cents a pound, and how the poor are to live through another year we cannot see.
But we forbear comments. Our all is at stake, and we must not complain at hardness now.
The bill
concerning exemptions recently passed by the Legislature,
is certainly very good, but if some others could remain at home to make bread
for those in the army it would perhaps be better.
[Transcribed
by Sharon Strout]