Joseph R. West to James H. Carleton, February 24, 1862

J have received the letter of Colonel Carleton in reference to the men of Company A, First Infantry California Volunteers, who refused to carry their knapsack8 on drill, and have followed the instructions therein contained. All have consented to obey the order with the exception of thirteen privates. How am I to construe the expression, “the only alternative left is to have that man (the disobedient) at once mustered out of the service without pay.” Is that an opinion as to what ought to be done, or an order to do it? I have put those men in the guard-house, and shall keep them for definite orders. Company G are now all willing to obey the order.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,