[JUNE 17, 1863.- For correspondence relating to raising troops in Massachusetts, see Schouler to Stanton, Series I, Vol. XXVII, Part III, p. 187.]

[JUNE 17, 1863.- For proclamation of Governor Parker, of New Jersey, calling upon the people to assist Pennsylvania, see Series I, Vol. XXVII, Part III, p. 190.]

WAR DEPARTMENT,

Washington City, June 17, 1863.

THOMAS WEBSTER, Esq.,

Philadelphia:

The petition of the citizens of Philadelphia for authority to raise three regiments of colored volunteer has been received by this Department and the proper orders have been issued for raising the troops. The views of the Department will be explained to you by Major Stearns.

EDWIN M. STANTON,

Secretary of War.

[JUNE 17, 1863.- For correspondence relating to raising troops in New York, see Halleck to Sandford; Sandford to Halleck, Series I, Vol. XXVII, Part III, p. 187.]

[JUNE 17, 1863.- For correspondence relating to raising troops in Pennsylvania, see Couch to Stanton; Stanton to Couch; Curtin to Stanton; Pleasonton to Stanton, Series I, Vol. XXVII, Part III, pp. 185-188.]

[JUNE 17, 1863.- For correspondence relating to raising troops in Rhode Island, see Smith to Stanton, Series I, Vol. XXVII, Part III, p. 188.]

STATE OF VERMONT, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

Brattleborough, June 17, 1863.

Honorable E. M. STANTON,

Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.:

SIR: The adjutant-general of Vermont feels it to be quite important that the draft, under the U. S. conscription law, when made in Vermont, shall be made in towns, giving each town its due credits or charging its deficiencies, in consideration of what it has done in furnishing men under previous calls.

The important points are set forth in the accompanying letter from General Washburn, which, at his request, I send to you. You are doubtless aware that in Vermont the town is the municipal unit, and when the State authorities have had occasion to raise troops it has