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The brigade of nine months men was never accepted, although the regiments which composed
General Davis's command were recruited to the maximum, mustered in, and sent to the front.
What the
Governor said of
General Davis was just and true.
He was commissioned colonel of the Thirty-ninth Regiment, three years volunteers, Aug. 29, 1862, which joined the Army of the Potomac; and was killed in action, July 11, 1864.
On the 11th of August, after receiving the telegram above quoted, the
Governor wrote to
President Lincoln,—
I can't get these regiments off, because I can't get quick, energetic work out of the United States disbursing officer and the paymaster.
I cannot start our men in violation of my authorized proclamation and promises.
Everybody here is alive; men swarm our camps; we will raise regiments, until you cry hold.
But why not turn over the funds to me, and we will disburse and account for them and stop delays.
On the 12th of August, the
Governor telegraphs the
Secretary of War,—
The nine months regiments, which are organizing, will be put into camp at once, and under strict discipline.
May I go on, and make requisitions for quartermaster's and commissary's supplies, as for three years men?
Authority was given.
On the same, he writes to
Brigadier-General Briggs, who was in
Boston on wounded furlough,—
As you have expressed a wish to do some service for the State while waiting here, I ask you, as a great favor, to repair to Worcester to-morrow, to inspect the condition of the Thirty-sixth Regiment, and make a report to me as to its organization,—conferring with me and with the Adjutant-General before leaving.
Aug. 13.—Governor telegraphs
Adjutant-General Thomas,
Washington, ‘Can the nine months militia of
Massachusetts be mustered in now, and as fast as they present themselves?
Please answer at once.’
Leave was only given to have them mustered in by full companies.
On the same day, he telegraphed to
Assistant Adjutant-General Townsend, ‘Please telegraph whether furloughs granted between July 31 ’
