Edwin M. Stanton to E. D. Baker, May 8, 1861

Col. E. D. BAKER, U. $. Senate, dec., Washington, D. 0.:

SIR: You are authorized to raise for the service of the United States a regiment of troops (infantry), with yourself as colonel, to be taken as a portion of any troops that may be called from the State of California by the United States, and to be known as the California Regiment. Orders will be issued to the mustering officer in New York to muster the same into the service as soon as presented. In case the proper Government officers are not prepared to furnish clothing for the men of your regiment at the time you find it necessary, you are authorized to purchase for each man an outfit of clothing, provided the same is properly charged on the muster-rolls of your command.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,