Thanks...that clarifies it, somewhat. I guess we could make the assumption that he was willing to serve west of the Mississippi, but when ordered east felt his war was over.

Trying to put myself in his place as someone tired and discouraged about the course and conduct of the war I'd think he'd have taken his chances (and any sympathizers inclined to go with him) by heading west to the frontier, or even down to SE Texas in the Big Thicket country above present day Beaumont.

That area, still a trackless wilderness in some spots, was both a hot bed of anti-war sentiment ("...rich man's war, poor man's fight...") and apparently a refuge for those avoiding conscription as well as deserters.

It would be very interesting to know the full story behind his decision...whether he "stood up" and said he was going home, or was betrayed by one of his men and some of the details of his arrest and (assumed?) trial.

Jack