John Pope to David Davis

Cincininati Ohio

April 16,1861

Dear Judge

I wrote the other day to Gov. Yates tendering my services to the State of Illinois in the present military exigency –

It is to the last degree important that the volunteer or Militia called into active service by the State, should be carefully organized & drilled & placed under the command of capable officers. The question of organization is now most important & I hope the Governor will be careful that it is exected in the best possible manner to act harmoniously with troops of other States and of the [Genl Dist?] For this purpose some uniformity both of organization & of drill is absolutely essential.

It is well remembered also that we are not now to meet Mexicans but [encounter?] our own people under the lead of the best military talent in the country & with a complete & uniform organization.

Much of the efficiency of the troops called for from Illinois will depend upon the steps taken in the

beginning & a thorough knowledge of the systems of Artillery, Infantry, & Cavalry should be brought to the service of the State. Upon the system now adopted by the State her position & influence in the coming war, will largely depend & too much care & judgement & experience cannot be secured.

If I can be of service you know how gladly I will do my part but I think you had better yourself see the Governor as soon as you can & urge upon him the propriety of selecting men of military education & experience to take charge of the organization, equipment & system of discipline of the troops to be called into service. He should by all means retain in his own hands with the consent of the State Senate, the appointment of the Field officers, (that is Majors, Lt Cols & Colonels) of all the Regiments – he may call into service that he may secure for such responsible offices those best qualified for them.

A mistake now would seriously jeopard the military character of the State, or render its troops incapable of at once doing service with other

forces called into the Field.

I wrote to you hastily to secure your active agency in above in which we are all so much interested.

Very truly yours &c

Jno Pope

Judge D Davis

For Gov Yates –Capt Pope's views are entitled a great weight =

Capt Pope's Letter –ansd Tendering services John Pope

Capt Popes Letter – Military – answer sent to Judge Davis.