Confederate States of America,
War Department, Ordnance Office
Montgomery, May 4, 1861.
War Department, Ordnance Office
Montgomery, May 4, 1861.
Honorable Secretary of War:
General: Permit me to suggest that in order to relieve the central Government of the multiplied calls made upon it for arms, ammunition, &c. , the Governors of States be notified that arms and ammunition will be supplied to troops called out at the points where the troops are to rendezvous for active service. Let the troops be notified beforehand by the State authorities to equip themselves with such temporary knapsacks, haversacks, and canteens as each individual can prepare for himself. The central Government will supply these of good quality at the place of rendezvous as fast as they can be made. This will in a great measure prevent the perplexing and mischievous requisitions of Governors of States on the arsenals .
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
J. GORGAS,
Major, &c.
Major, &c.