HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, February 21, 1862

Los Angeles, Cal., February 21, 1862.

Respectfully forwarded to department headquarters, with the hope that the general will sustain my action in the premises, as we lack time now for the ordinary procedure by courts. JAMES H. CARLETON, Colonel First California Volunteers, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, _ Los Angeles, Cal., February 22, 1862. First Lieut. JOHN B. SHINN, i , Commanding Light Company A, Third Artillery, Camp Drum, New San Pedro, Cal.: LIEUTENANT: I am directed by the colonel commanding to say if you have not already done so, you will report for duty with your company to Lieutenant-Colonel Evans, commanding at Camp Drum. The

colonel commanding the district has great confidence in the belief which he entertains that you will leave no effort untried to put your horses into the best possible condition, and your battery generally into the best fighting trim, at the earliest practicable moment. To do this much is left to your discretion, and a great deal expected from your perseverance, industry, and energy.

I am, lieutenant, respectfully, «e., BEN. C. CUTLER, First Lieut., First Infantry California Vols., Acty. Asst. Adjt. Gen.