May 23, 1861.—The Governor telegraphs to Hon. Charles Sumner, at Washington, ‘Why can't I send a brigadier in Butler's place? It is my wish, and is only just to General Peirce. Butler recommends him. He is sound, faithful, and ardent. Answer immediately.’ Permission was given, and General Peirce was appointed. On the same day, the Governor writes to Professor Rogers, thanking him for eight hundred military hats, contributed by the ‘Thursday Evening Club;’ also, to Mrs. Jared Sparks, Cambridge, and the ladies with whom she is associated, for presents of needle-books and handkerchiefs for the soldiers. May 24, 1861.—Governor writes to Lieutenant Amory, U. S. A., mustering officer at Boston, ‘Whatever rations, clothing, &c., you may want for the soldiers, after they are mustered in, will be furnished upon proper requisitions.’ The same day, he writes to A. W. Campbell, of Wheeling, Va., inclosing an order passed by the Executive Council, loaning that city two thousand muskets. He writes to William Robinson, of Baltimore, Md.,—
I have gratefully received, and desire cordially to acknowledge your very kind letter, concerning the fate and last days of poor Needham, of Lawrence, Mass. Allow me also to render to you my thanks
