15 May 1861
Peyton, William M., 1805-1868
Autograph letter signed
Title: to William Cabell Rives
Colonel Peyton discusses Virginia's recent secession from the Union, stating "I think Virginia would have acted more wisely ... if, with her prestige as the great head of the slave states, she had planted her foot upon the opening lid of this Pandora's box, and taken a position of armed neutrality." Outlines the events that provoked Virginia's secession. Discussing the Constitution of 1787, declares "It came to us baptized in the blood of the Revolution ... It goes from us besmeared, and begrimed, and defiled by immersion in the dirty pools of abolitionism ..." Referring to President…
GLC05021.01
