In person he is rather tall, well made, with dark hair, and a most determined cast of countenance; he speaks but little, but is kind, though rather reserved in his manner.

"When Senator Douglas ascertained that Dennis had been dismissed because he had testified against the Border Ruffian frauds, he moved & reconsideration of the vote of confirmation.

Mr. Dennis is a Democrat, and his sole offence was telling the truth before the investigation committee of the Territorial Legislature.

He has, however, only me the fate of all the Democrats sent to Kansas, who have flinched, in the slightest degree, in upholding the rascalities of the Pro-Slavery party.

He was promoted to colonel in May 1862 and to brigadier general in November 1862, commanding a brigade of infantry in the Army of the Tennessee.

Later in May, he was placed in command of the District of Northeast Louisiana when guerillas were causing problems on the leased plantations there.

On June 7, 1875, Elias married Mrs. Mary A, McFarland of Madison Parish, who owned a plantation.

[4] Dennis moved back to Carlyle, Illinois, in March 1887 and lived on a small farm with his son Elias Jr.