Unknown to Unknown

November 8th 1

Sir:

I have been called upon by Col. J. H Bell of Chicago with letter of authority from the War Department to organize a Cavalry regiment in this State, subject however to my approval.

I think the letter was given Col B. supposing that an arrangement would be made to consolidate his with a regiment I had previously authorized Lt Governor Hoffman to organize, Command of which to be given Col Arno Voss of Chicago, an experienced Cavalry Officer- a personal friend of Govr H. and by other most respectful authority highly recommended.

The arrangement for consolidation cannot be agreeably effected and I am much embarrassed by the authority given Col Bell, inasmuch as in giving the power to Govr Hoffman I only exercised the authority given Governor of all the States to accept and regulate the organization of military forces for the General Government.

Govr. Hoffman and his friends have organized some [Fine?] Companies, some of which are already in camp-the men have spent time and money, and the organization of Bells regiment alone would produce great disappointment and dissatisfaction in the districts they were recruited in. Under these circumstances and these before alluded to I have declined to organize Col Bells regiment at present.

The whole matter, in my opinion could not be better reconciled than by the organization of two more regiments and I would respectfully ask you to authorize them and Cols Voss and Bell will be commissioned and regiments organized, I believe, with great advantage to the service.

Yours Very Respectfully

Truly