I have not had an opportunity to examine the federal statute passed by the present congress, and which goes into effect on the first of July. I am informed that I have no authority to authorize the organization of any military companies until the guard as now constituted be mustered into the federal service. After the Guard goes in, then, according to my opinion I have the power to authorize the organization of other companies. These new companies will not go into the United States army under the present order, but would go in if the President should call for additional troops.

Your organization of a company meets with my cordial approval, and it will give me pleasure to authorize you as a captain to enlist a company under these conditions. I am sure that the country would get no better service from any soldiers.