William Schouler, A history of Massachusetts in the Civil War: Volume 1

“ [150] for three years, or for the war, perfectly equipped,” in addition to the quota which Massachusetts might be called upon to furnish under the first call of the President; and, on the same day, it was refused by the Secretary. He also, in co-operation with Mr. Foster, the Attorney-General, and Senator Wilson, by direction of the Governor, offered such aid as Massachusetts could furnish to the pecuniary credit of the Government.

Judge Hoar left Washington on or about the 15th of May, to return home; and his duties and responsibilities were assumed by Charles R. Lowell, Jr., who had been appointed by the Governor as the agent of Massachusetts in Washington. Before leaving Washington, Judge Hoar addressed a letter to Mr. Lowell, in which the duties he was expected to perform were carefully and concisely stated. He was to communicate with the departments in relation to stores sold, or troops carried on the Massachusetts transports. He was to communicate with the officers commanding Massachusetts regiments; and every thing wanting by them was to be received and distributed through him. He was to keep an account of his expenses, and report as nearly daily as practicable of all his doings to the Governor. He was empowered to buy a copying-press, and ‘to employ a clerk, if necessary.’—‘The object of the whole arrangement is,’ says Judge Hoar, ‘to have some one responsible, competent agent, who will know all that is done and sent from Massachusetts, and all that is wanted and received at Washington, or by the troops, wherever stationed; to take care of property, take vouchers, prevent waste, and to be the sole channel of communication between supply and demand.’

This letter of Judge Hoar to Mr. Lowell brings up pleasant and sad memories of one of the best and bravest of men. Mr. Lowell was born in Boston, Jan. 2, 1835. He was the son of Charles R. Lowell, and the grandson of Rev. Charles Lowell. The best blood of Massachusetts flowed in his veins. He graduated at Harvard University at the head of his class in 1853. When the Rebellion broke out, he was in Cumberland, Md. He had charge of the Mt. Savage Iron Works at that place. On the 20th of April, 1861, hearing of the attack upon the Sixth Regiment in Baltimore, he abandoned his position, and set out