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on hand, in making it a short one, by making it an
active one; and, as we have it to carry on, we desire to ‘pay attention to it,’ finish it up, suppress speedily the rebellion, and then restore the waste places of
Zion.
Tell
Mr. Chase I have begun inquiries and efforts, in the hope that
Massachusetts may take five millions of his loan.
It ought all to be taken at
par, on six per cent interest.
I am, ever faithfully,
P. S.—I understand that matters at our navy yard, in
Charlestown, are not as expeditious as they would be if some old incumbents were away.
The blacksmith is especially complained about.
We do need men in sympathy with the great work; and I hope
Mr. Welles will refer to
Mr. Greene, of the Ordnance Department, and
Mr. Roulstone, of the same carriage department, and see if, with their suggestions, he cannot inspire some new life, with new blood, into certain branches of the work.
The letter of
Secretary Cameron, permitting
Massachusetts to furnish six regiments of volunteers, as before stated, was not received until the 22d of May.
It was not calculated to inspire either spirit or enthusiasm.
We copy it entire.
Dear Sir,—I have the honor to forward you enclosed herewith the plan of organization of the volunteers for three years, or during the war.
Six regiments are assigned to your State; making, in addition to the
two regiments of three months militia already called for, eight regiments.
It is important to reduce rather than to enlarge this number, and in no event to exceed it. Let me earnestly recommend to you, therefore, to call for no more than eight regiments, of which six only are to serve for three years, or during the war, and, if more are already called for, to reduce the number by discharge.
In making up the quota of three years men, you will please act in concert with the mustering officers sent to your State, who will represent this Department.
I am, sir, respectfully,
On the receipt of this letter,
General Order No. 12 was issued by direction of the
Governor, which gave notice that the quota of
Massachusetts was ‘fixed at six regiments of infantry, to be ’
