Richard C. Drum to James H. Carleton, December 14, 1861

Col. J. H. CARLETON, First Infantry California Volunteers,

SIR: I am directed by the general commanding the department to acknowledge the receipt of your letter transmitting papers relating to

the capture of Showalter’s party and their designs, and to say, in reply, that from the intercepted letters it is clearly established what the character and purposes of this party were. The correspondence shows that the oath of allegiance of such men is of no value. The General desires you to guard these men with increased vigilance. He is now more than ever satisfied of the prepriety of keeping them prisoners.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,