Richd. C. Drum to Albemarle Cady, June 28, 1861

Maj. ALBEMARLE CADY, Sixth Infantry, U. S. Army, Commanding Fort Yuma, Cal.:

Str: The general commanding the department has been informed that a rumor is prevalent in this community and the State generally that the so-called government of the Confederate States purpose sending from the State of Texas or elsewhere, through certain Statesof the Mexican Republic, to this coast a military force, considerable in numbers, with the object of seizing upon and holding the port of Guaymas, in the Republic of Mexico. Whether this is merely an idle rumor or is really the purpose and intention of that people the general has no means of judging, but from the unparalleled audacity which has characterized the operations of those now in revolt against the authority of the General Government, it is well to be prepared for any movement which has for its object purposes similar to this, and for emergencies that may arise under it. The general commanding desires that you should keep him constantly informed of any indications on the part of this so-called government, or those professedly acting under it, to seize upon or occupy any part of the Mexican Stateson this coast, or any point within the limits of this military department. All information of a reliable character touching this subject will be promptly communicated. The general deems it scarcely necessary to remind one of your experience of the instructions regarding public posts and property contained in General Orders, No. 6, current series, from these headquarters.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,