Unknown to Edwin V. Sumner, August 8, 1861

General E. V. SUMNER, Commanding, ke. :

SIR: Doctor Haywood has just shown me some papers written by one Boyd, deceased, containing charges against Lieutenant Haller, of which he has written to you, The documents contain nothing against ` the loyalty of Lieutenant Haller, only charging him of some small peculations for his private purse. The papers might be of service should the lieutenant prove untrue. I am informed that an expedition is being organized to leave here for Arizona or Sonora under Col. Jack

Sacramento City, came to this place through Mariposa and Tulare Counties. After a week here he went to San Bernardino and to Holcomb Valley mine, and there holding several meetings secretly with the faithful to Dixie. A Mr. Kelsey, lately from Sonoma, and Major Rollins are to be officers, who are now in San Bernardino. I am informed that about 100 men are enrolled by them. Brown came back here about one week past, and will be up to San Francisco on the next steamer. Of the extent of Jack Hays’ movements I am not informed. I shall keep myself informed of the movement here through their confidants, and will inform you of what may occur in their secret meetings. Captain Hancock can inform you more particularly in reference to matters here than I can write. Secessionists are getting more noisy here. We may have to fight them yet. Every county officer is with them. We shall make a strong effort to overthrow them at the election. Union men and Republicans are all united upon one county ticket. We very much regret the removal of Captain Hancock. We regard him as one of the substantial men of the Army, and know he will be right.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,