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

[148] Lawrence is doing, and has done, all in his power, and is entitled to great credit for his services. But they want what the enclosed list states,—instantly. I know you will send them if you can. If the State cannot pay for them, send the bill for the Concord company to Concord, and it shall be paid as soon as I get there. I will write again this evening.

The commissary says Government is very short of money. Treasury-notes are but partially serviceable, because they are used to pay dues to the Government, and so must cut off revenue; in fact, substantially amount only to an anticipation of revenue.

The matter of the loan, on which we addressed you last week, is therefore of the highest importance.

I learned on my arrival, that the orders for Massachusetts regiments to be enlisted, mustered, and drilled at Boston had been forwarded. If they have not come to hand, telegraph me or Wilson, and duplicates will be sent.

Faithfully your Excellency's friend, and the servant of the committee and the cause,

dear Sir,—The ‘Cambridge’ arrived this morning, having been detained between two and three days at Fort Monroe to bring on some heavy guns and shells. Dr. Howe arrived this morning, having been detained on the way by illness.

Mr. Cameron told me this morning, that his department would not purchase, or agree to employ, the steamers; and, in answer to my urgent representations about the six Massachusetts regiments for the war, said that none could be received at present, and that he could give no promise or encouragement for the future. I asked Mr. Chase if he could help us, and he said he was afraid he could not, as he had been trying to get Cameron to receive ten regiments from Ohio, and had succeeded in getting him to accept only three.

In regard to the steamers, I have made a very strong application to the Secretary of the Navy, which I think has produced some impression;