Sumner to New York, April 27, 1861

New York:

STR: A meeting of citizens of California and others, former residents of that State, was held in this city on the 21st instant. There were present between 200 and 300 persons, who comprised a large majority of those Californians now in New York and those who have lately been at Washington. The object of the meeting was to give expression to the feeling of confidence in our Administration, which animates us equally with our brothers in the Atlantic States, and to devise a method in which we can most effectually strengthen the hands of Government and aid in crushing out the rebellion in our midst. We desired to also claim for California her proper share of the duty as well as honor of upholding and preserving the American flag and the integrity of the union of the States. It was there resolved to raise and offer to the Government a California regiment, to be composed as far as possible of persons at some time residents of California. It was also unanimously resolved that you be requested to accept the coloneley of the regiment. Up to this time the organization has been vigorously pushed, and about 600 men have been enrolled and are now under drill by competent instructors, and we hope within the next forty-eight hours to be able to apprise you that the full complement of men is enrolled and ready to be mustered into service. As the chairman of our meeting, and instructed to acquaint you with their wishes, in their name, I beg you to accept the position named, and add your name and weight of character to our offering. I have the honor to subscribe myself, your most obedient servant,

No. 67. San Francisco, April 27, 1861. 1. Lieut. Thomas L. Casey, engineers, is relieved from duty with the Sappers and Miners, and will proceed to West Point, N. Y. * * * * * * *

By command of Brigadier-General Sumner: