375]           The Maryland Constitution of 1864.              29

justify this on the ground of zeal for a good cause. No
wonder "Colonel Tevis spoke of the Unconditional Union
as the "Government" ticket in his very original proclama-
tion at Chestertown.

On the other hand, it must be said in General Schenck's
defense, that he was hardly in any direct manner respon-
sible for the outrages on the Eastern Shore, although he
himself by his own actions practically laid the way open
for the frauds of the unscrupulous local politicians and their
supporters among the military. These in all probability
formed a part of that band of "loyal citizens" who urged
upon him the necessity of the military possession of the
polls, as he stated in his proclamation of November 3,
already mentioned.³⁹

It is interesting to note that precisely the same order
as "Number 53" was issued by General Schenck to govern
the election held in Delaware⁴⁰ on November 19, 1863.
Far from protesting against this action, the Governor of
the state officially endorsed it as follows:⁴¹

State of Delaware, Executive Department,

Dover, November 13, 1863.

All civil officers and good citizens of this State are enjoined to
obey the above military order, issued by the Commanding General
of the Middle Department, and to give all needful aid for the
proper enforcement of the same.

William Cannon.
Governor of Delaware.

An attempt was made to induce Governor Bradford to
refuse to give certificates of election in view of the un-
doubted irregularities at the polls, but after seeking the
advice of Hon. Reverdy Johnson the Governor declined
to accede to this, alleging lack of power, and that his duties
were merely ministerial in cases of this kind.

³⁹ Issued by Gen. Schenck in answer to the Governor's proclama-
tion (see page 23). Further particulars on this subject in Gover-
nor's message, 1864.

⁴⁰ Also in the jurisdiction of the Middle Department.

⁴¹  "American," Nov. 17, 1863.