Geo. A. H. Blake to Don Carlos Buell, July 22, 1861

Maj. Don CARLOS BUELL, Assistant Adjutant-General, U. X. Army,

MAJOR: Your communication of the 18th instant is received. In reply I would state for the information of the general commanding department that Captain Moore was present and organized one company in Virginia City, and that he examined the records of the Union organization in Virginia City, Gold Hill, and Silver City, and is satisfied there are now in the Territory over 400 loyal citizens, organized as companies, who are anxious to obtain arms and ammunition for the purpose of aiding the civil authority in carrying out the laws and protecting the interests of the United States. I believe that arms could be placed in the hands of these men with the full assurance that the power thus given them would not be abused. I would also state that the arms will be secure, as they do not place them in an armory but carry them to their rooms, so that in case of an alarm they come forth ready armed without the necessity of rushing to an armory to equip. The arms could be issued to the Governor, and by him to such as he knows to be loyal, or placed in store at this post and issued on requisitions by him or the order of the general commanding department. I am, sir,

very respectfully, your obedient servant,