Joseph R. West to Ben C. Cutler, February 19, 1862

Lieut. BEN. C. CUTLER, I regret to have to inform you that all of Company A, First Infantry California Volunteers, with the exception of the non-commissioned officers and one private, refused to obey the order this morning to ” drill with knapsacks on.” There are twelve men in the guard-house now for the same offense, and with over one-half the command in a state of mutiny I have not deemed it judicious to endeavor to enforce authority, being fearful that little reliance can be placed upon the remainder to thatend. In fact, this refusal to do duty amounts to a demoralization of the whole command; the scepter of authority being once cast down, no dependence can be placed upon any order being obeyed. Drills must be suspended because orders to ” drill with knapsacks on” cannot be carried into effect, and I have no discretion in the premises. Company G (Captain Greene) so far do their duty manfully, but I cannot but conclude that it is now a matter of option with them also. I have to request early instructions from district headquarters in the premises.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,