The Jennison speech was given during the 15-day period Missourians were given to comply with Order No. 11. Given the content of the speech, it is very easy to believe the redleg in the center of the painting was indeed intended to be a portrayal of Jennison, as has been often speculated.

Do you suppose I will march into Missouri and ask them to take the oath? No - not by a damned sight. If they have protection papers, I will hang them, for real Union men need no written proof of their loyalty…I will say to every physically able man in the State of Missouri, “You must fight for your homes or you will be put to death.”