I shall do exactly by you as I have done by General Sherman and General Burnside,—that is to say, I shall use every exertion to furnish troops for the service you propose, in our full proportion; but it must be done by pursuing such methods and plans as we have found necessary for the general advantage of the service. Nor can I permit, so far as it lies with me, to decide any officers of the United States to raise troops as Massachusetts volunteers within this Commonwealth, except for the recruitment of existing regiments, or subject to the conditions indicated; while any advice or friendly assistance will be gratefully received from any quarter, much more from a gentleman of your capacity to advise, and your hearty zeal in the cause we are both anxious to serve.The Governor had telegraphed, on the morning of the 5th, to the Secretary of War, to know if he ‘would pay our soldiers, as fast as mustered in, half a month's pay, detailing paymasters therefor. Do not authorize this for any, unless for all. What is General Butler's power and position here?’ To which he received, as an answer, ‘We cannot pay in advance. General Butler has authority to concentrate a brigade for special service, all of which is to be organized under the several Governors of the Eastern States. We gave General Butler authority with regard to advance pay.’ The Governor also wrote a letter to Mr. Cameron in regard to matters. It would appear, that, some time on the seventh of the month, General Butler requested a personal interview with the Governor, and called at the State House; but, the Governor being engaged in the Council Chamber, the interview did not take place. It does not appear that the letter of the Governor of Oct. 5 changed in the least degree the determination of General Butler to enlist men. He opened a camp in Pittsfield, and another in Lowell, and commenced recruiting two regiments of infantry,
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control of raising regiments in their own States: ‘Nor is it permitted by law, even to the President himself, even were he so disposed, to interfere in the premises.’
He also informs the General, that he has the assurance of the Secretary of War, ‘that he had issued no orders, and would issue none, tending to interfere with the State authorities.’
He concludes this able letter by saying,—
1868. E. P. DUtton and Co. Boston,.
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