, 1861.
"Hon. Simon Cameron, Secretary of War:

"Dear Sir:--I respectfully ask for an order granting me leave to
recruit and organize, in this part of Ohio, a brigade of two
regiments of infantry, one squadron of cavalry, and two companies
of artillery. I know I can do it promptly. The squadron of cavalry
authorized to Major McLaughlin may, if desired, be considered as
part of the brigade.

"For reasons that are probably unjust the governor and state military
authorities are less successful than I hoped, and I know that I
can get you recruits that they cannot. I wish no rank, pay, or
expenses for myself, and will freely act without compensation. I
care not who are the field officers, so I know they are men of
honor, honesty and experience. I will only ask of the department
the usual rations, pay and armament and equipage for the men; I
ask nothing for myself, will undertake upon my individual responsibility
to purchase any of them desired, receiving in return government
securities therefor.

"I will so execute the order as not to interfere with the state
authorities, and will act in subordination to them. I will freely
confer with the government as to details, but would rather be left
as free as practicable in the selection of officers.

"I hope, my dear sir, this application will receive your sanction,
and I will stake my reputation and property that what I offer shall
be accomplished.

"Very truly yours,
"John Sherman."

On the same day, in order to secure the active co-operation of
Secretary Chase, I wrote him as follows:

"Mansfield, Ohio, September 24, 1861.
"Hon. S. P. Chase, Secretary of the Treasury:

"My Dear Sir:--I have to-day written to General Cameron, asking an
order allowing me to recruit a brigade in this part of Ohio. I
know I can do it. I ask no office, rank, pay, or expenses for
myself, and will undertake to recruit this force in subordination
to the state and general government, and within such limits as may
be allowed. Whatever may be the reason, it is manifest that
voluntary enlistment needs the spur of active exertion and
solicitation. This I am willing to give, and, from offers freely
made to me by personal acquaintances, know that I can enlist hundreds
whom the state authorities cannot reach.

"Can I ask your favorable influence and co-operation? I will pay
my own expenses, and ask only rations, tents and armament for the
men. Any of these I am willing to purchas