Governor Hicks to Simon Cameron, April 20, 1861

Sir: Since I saw you in Washington last I have been in Baltimore City laboring, in conjunction with the mayor of that city, to preserve ‘t peace and order, but I regret to say with little success. Up to yesterday there appeared promise, but the outbreak came; the turbulent pasés sions of the riotous element prevailed; fear for safety became reality ;

. what they had endeavored to conceal, but what was known to us, was no longer concealed, but made manifest; the rebellious element had the fn? control of things. We were arranging and organizing forces to protect the city and preserve order, but want of organization and of arms prevented success. They had arms; they had the principal part of the organized military forces with them, and for us to have made the effort, under the circumstances, would have had the effect to aid the disorderly ‘ element. They took possession of the armories, have the arms and ammunition, and I therefore think it prudent to decline (for the present) responding affirmatively to the requisition made by President Lincoln for four regiments of infantry.

With great respect, I am, your obedient servant,