R. C. Hale to Fitz J. Porter, May 22, 1861

Maj. F. J. PORTER, Assistant Adjutant. General, U. 8. Army:

Sir: This morning in Philadelphia Major-General Patterson insisted on my delivering to the troops mustered into the service of the United States the accouterments I have had made for the militia of this State. I partly agreed to do so, but on my arrival here I find a letter from the Secretary of War, saying that arrangements had been made to supply from the U.S. arsenals all the accouterments necessary for the troops mustered into the service of the United States.

aii AATEC arin Ua aaa maa pate STN hi”

Under these circumstances, what can Ido? The United States hag not got the accouterments ready, as General Patterson informed me, and the United States seems to be unwilling to take what I have on hand. If the United States want these now they can have them, and let our Pennsylvania reserve troops receive a like number from the United States as soon as they can get them ready. I inclose copy of letter from Secretary of War.

Very respectfully,