Letter signed Wm. M. McPherson [William M. McPherson], New York, to Gov. H.R. Gamble, St. Louis, September 23, 1861
Digital Image
Identifier: D03058
Language of Materials
English
- Hamilton Rowan Gamble Papers | Letter signed William McPherson, New York, to Governor H.R. Gamble. I have procured an order for 4000 guns. I came here to get and ship them but find they have only 2810 at the arsenal. These were got ready today and will be shipped by express tomorrow, reaching St. Louis Saturday. I shall send a messenger with them under my instructions and then go to work to get more. Those obtained are old pattern of Springfield musket, and to be loaded with ball and buckshot. I have an order on Captain Callendar for ammunition, and I wrote Colonel Blair today to see Callender and let him get the ammunition prepared. The caliber is 69. I had to ge tan order form the President to get the arms. When in Washington I kept clear of the Fremont question. The President complained you had not written of your interview with Fremont as requested. I had the honor of explaining my business before the President and his full Cabinet within 4 hours after I reached Washington, but then was two days in getting the orders for arms and equipment. I got 4000 infantry equipment with the guns. I have learned something of the corruption going on in army matters east and west…enough to make any lover of his country sick at heart. We will talk this over when I get home. Individuals mentioned include President Lincoln, Captain [Franklin P.] Callendar, Colonel Blair, John C. Fremont and Cabinet. Places mentioned include Washington. (2 pages), 1861 Sept 23
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Part of the Missouri Historical Society Library and Research Center Repository