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in store here beyond those in actual use; and that, on purely Military grounds, it would be desirable to possess a further supply. It will be observed that Colonel Crawford writes as follows:- "The Volunteers (Enclosure 2) are chiefly gentlemen who can appreciate a good aim; and the fact of their being armed with the best weapons, not only increased their efficiency, but is a stimulant towards learning their drill and duty.
On the other hand, I am informed that if the War Department should refuse to supply these carbines on loan, or, having lent them, should suddenly and without cause assigned, as on a previous occasion, require them to be returned, the Volunteers will again cease to exist; as indeed would probably be the case, under similar treatment, with the Volunteers in England.
4. After consultation with the Executive Council, and with General Sargent, I strongly recommend that the enclosed Requisition