Unknown to Henry Hancock, January 10, 1862

MAJOR: On Tuesday, the 7th instant, I dispatched two companies (F and H) of my regiment to Camp Union under the command of Maj. Henry Hancock, and am advised of their safe arrival at that place. The balance of the command would have been removed before this time but for the impossibility of procuring teams for transportation. Being compelled to rely upon private teams, of course I cannot control them, and they refuse to start in the present condition of the roads in the storm which is now raging, and which has been continuous for the last thirty-six hours. Besides, we hear from all quarters that the most substantial bridges have been carried off, and fears are entertained that the bridge at Folsom, over which we must necessarily pass en route to Camp Union, has been swept away. The streams abont here are more swollen than ever before known by white inhabitants. Under the circumstances I hope to be pardoned should I be compelled to remain here longer than the time indicated in your letter of the 2d day of January, 1862. I have endeavored to communicate with you by telegraph, and also tried to do the same with Sacramento and Folsom, but have failed in each instance. A reply to this by telegraph or mail (both of which are temporarily suspended) at your earliest convenience would afford great satisfaction.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,