Edwin V. Sumner to William S. Ketchum, August 14, 1861

Maj. WILLIAM S. KETCHUM, Fourth Regiment of Infantry, Camp Sumner, Cal.: MAJOR: It is reported from authentic sources that there is much disaffection toward the Government in the southern part of this State, and the object of placing you with your command at San Bernardino is to repress with a strong hand any organization to resist or impede the measures of the Government. You will consider yourself charged with all the supervision of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Santa Barbara Counties, and you will endeavor to keep yourself well informed of all scheming against the Government, and interpose at once if any overt act of treason is committed. You will have authority to concentrate the troops from Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and San Diego, if any emergency should make it necessary. Communicate with Colonel Andrews, at Fort Yuma, and if that post should be threatened by any hostile movement from Texas or Arizona, march instantly to its support with your whole available force.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,