Unknown to Don Carlos Buell, June 8, 1861

Maj. D. C. BUELL, Assistant Adjutant-General :

Sir: Your letter of yesterday has just been received, and in reply I have to say that after a very careful examination of the act of Congress organizing the Territory of Nevada I have come to the conclusion that I would not be authorized to act in the matter mentioned in your communication. The Governor has not arrived, the Territory has not been divided into judicial districts, and there is not a single territorial officer there. Until steps are taken for the organization of the territorial government I am of the opinion that have no power to act in the premises.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,