Page:A Compilation of the Messages and Papers of the Confederacy, Including the Diplomatic Correspondence, 1861-1865, Volume I.djvu/253

Rh A PROCLAMATION. By virtue of the power vested in me by law to declare the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus: I, Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America, do proclaim that martial law is hereby extended over the counties of Elizabeth City, York, Warwick, Gloucester, and Mathews (in Virginia), and I do proclaim the suspension of all civil jurisdiction (with the exception of that enabling the courts to take cognizance of the probate of wills, the administration of the estates of deceased persons, the qualification of guardians, to enter decrees and orders for the partition and sale of property, to make orders concerning roads and bridges, to assess county levies, and to order the payment of county dues), and the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in the counties aforesaid.

In faith whereof I have hereunto signed my name and set my seal this 14th day of March, in the year 1862.

 General Orders No. 18. March 29, 1862. I. The following proclamation is published for the information of all concerned: 