San Francisco to R. C. Drum, U.s. Army, November 24, 1861
Maj. R. C. DRUM, U.S. Army, Assistant Adjutant-General, San Francisco, Cal.:
MAJOR: I have the honor herewith to inclose a copy of a letter which I have just received from Lieutenant-Colonel West, commanding at Fort Yuma.* A few days since I wrote a private letter to the general commanding the department, in which I suggested.sending by sea to Yuma two 18-pounders, with ammunition, &c., and a supply of barley for fifty picked cavalry, &c. [still think this will be re-enforcement enough. When I have filled West’s companies to 102 each, and send him fifty cavalry, he will have a force of numerical strength equal to seven ordinary companies of regulars. It would seem that an officer handling these men well, as West would be likely to do, they would trouble a larger force travel-worn and with a formidable river in front of them. As soon as I learn the barley is sent I will make arrangements to cut some hay. Mr. Hooper informs me this is a good time of year to get hay at Yuma.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
Washington, November 25, 1861.
His Excellency the GOVERNOR OF California,
San Francisco:
authorized to purchase arms, in competition with agents of the Government, is highly detrimental to the public service, as it advances
prices both to the States and to the United States, the loss of which
may ultimately fall upon the General Government. To avoid this competition you are respectfully requested to withdraw all agents for the