Eastchester, however, recognized that the bounty system was ripe for exploitation. Because drafted men had the option of paying the U.S. Government a $300 fee in lieu of military service, men could accept bounty money from the town, pay off the government, thus making a profit on the difference. At the same August 25 meeting, therefore, it was resolved that:

"those persons drafted from this town who have received $750 each out of the Town fund and who have paid commutation to the United States be required to refund the sum of $450 each and in case of their noncompliance the Supervisor shall take legal measures to enforce this resolution."

Read on: The End of the War