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The Union Must Be Preserved!

The president of the United States has issued his proclamation, calling for state aid to suppress rebellion and defend and maintain the government. He also commands all combinations of persons who resist the authority of the government, to disperse within twenty days, — and calls congress to meet on the 4th day of July next.

However much the people may differ about the causes which have brought our country to so deplorable a result, and however much we have differed in regard to party politics, it is no time to discuss such matters now. — The fight is upon us; and it is a fight for our existence, as a government. No matter what caused it — our country needs men and money, and these she must have. Those who have a taste for discussing the causes, can do so, of course, for, thank God, free speech cannot be suppressed here. But we have neither time nor inclination to discuss causes when our country is at war. Such a discussion can do no good now, for the fatal blow has been struck, and our country demands the united support of every man. When the conflict is over, those who are left can discuss causes, criticise mistakes, and hold to political accountability those who have done wrong. Such discussions are unprofitable now, and may do much harm by throwing obstacles in the way of the administration, and weakening our government. Let the wrangling about party politics, and the causes of war be forgotten, and let us use every effort now to sustain our government.

At the late hour we go to press we have no time to comment upon the great and enthusiastic meeting of last night. Large numbers of people were unable to gain admittance or get near enough to hear the speakers. — Great harmony prevailed. The little cannon and the band added their full share of eloquence to the occasion. The only regret we heard expressed was that Mr. Brackett, in his remarks, exhibited a spirit which his party so severely condemn in the people of the south.