Unknown to Edwin V. Sumner, August 9, 1861

Brig. Gen. E. V. SUMNER, Commanding Department of the Pacific, San Francisco :

DEAR SIR: I am constrained by the aspect of political affairs in this quarter to bring the matter personally to your knowledge in the hope that you will deem it prudent to add to the United States command in this section at least two companies, You are probably aware that our hostility to our Government is well known, and who at any time may join the secessionists in our midst, I am constrained to urge that you will kindly make further disposition of troops in this quarter and by their presence overrule any movement which may be made by disaffected persons to kindle the fire of domestic strife in this State. In thus addressing you I represent the sentiments of a large number of respectable residents, whose position and pursuits are of that character as would prevent their becoming active participants in case trouble should ensue.

Trusting that you will lend ear to my solicitation, I remain, dear sir, with much respect, your very obedient servant,