McHenry stresses the possible necessity of raising the eventual army in part or in whole. Measures should be taken for selecting the best qualified of those who are willing to serve. The course of reference has been referred to the Senators of nine States but for Virginia and South Carolina, Washington and Pinckney should be consulted. The Governor of North Carolina does not seem sufficiently impressed with the need to select real federal men. Enclosed is the act authorizing the President to augment the army.
Routine correspondence concerning the appointment, transfer, promotion, discharge, desertion, leave, and assignment of individual officers and soldiers.
Reports that all public business is in good order. Heavy rains have detained shipment to Mr. Hooker. The South West Point ferry is not adequate. Wants to rent land to appropriate farmers of good character, for such settlers are necessary to maintain good relations between Indians, military, and government and to keep the peace.
Hamilton informs Smith of the appointment of Capt. Church, of Smith's regiment, as Hamilton's Aide de Camp. Church has Hamilton's permission to begin the recruiting services for his company.
Certification of payment; $183.77 to detachment of 2d Regiment of Artillerists and Engineers stationed at Richmond under command of Captain Samuel Eddins, for pay.
