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as to the landing of my troops, it was expressly stated as a reason why I should not land, that my troops could not pass the railroad because the company had taken up the rails, and they were private property.
It is difficult to see how it can be that if my troops could not pass over the railroad one way, members of the legislature could pass the other way. I have taken possession for the purpose of preventing the execution of the threats of the mob, as officially represented to me by the master of transportation of the railroad in this city, “that if my troops passed over the railroad, the railroad should be destroyed.”
If the government of the
State had taken possession of the road in any emergency, I should have long hesitated before entering upon it; but as I had the honor to inform your excellency in regard to another insurrection against the laws of
Maryland, I am here armed to maintain those laws, if your excellency desires, and the peace of the
United States, against all disorderly persons whomsoever.
I am endeavoring to save and not to destroy; to obtain means of transportation, so that I can vacate the capital prior to the sitting of the legislature, and not be under the painful necessity of encumbering your beautiful city while the legislature is in session.
I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
Your excellency's obedient servant,
