Michigan was extremely fortunate in her Executive. His example and utterances in public and private, full of loyalty, patriotism, and courage, gave an abiding tone to public sentiment, and inspired the troops. And although the intense prevailing patriotism of the people of Michigan was undoubtedly the main source of the high standard reached by her troops in this - respect, yet it being so eminently inherent in her "War Governor," Austin Blair, and which he so eloquently imparted to them on every fitting occasion, impressed it on their minds with so much earnestness as to produce most beneficial and enduring effects. The State was equally fortunate in her Legislative bodies, being composed of men thoroughly in sympathy with the Union cause, opposing with great earnestness and ability any measures tinctured in the least with secession or even a shadow of compromise, and as a result their declarations in this respect were "stalwart" and decided, not minced in clipped or timid words, nor faint in expression, but bold, pronounced, and defiant. In the management of her interests at the National capital the State was well represented, having in the several departments of the Government men of influence who esteemed the reputation of their State, and were ever anxious and prompt to advance her cause. In her Representatives in both houses of Congress she was especially favored, and with these advantages Michigan unhesitatingly, but reluctantly, although hopefully and fearlessly, launched her bark on the turbulent sea of war on rebellion.