George Wright to Second Infantry California Volunteers, April 7, 1862

Col. Francis J. LIPPITT, Second Infantry California Volunteers, Commanding District of Humboldt, Fort Humboldt, Cal. :

COLONEL: I have sent orders to Lieutenant-Colonel Olney, of your regiment, to break up his camp at Santa Barbara and repair to this place with the two companies under his command. He will reach here about the 14th, and on the first steamer thereafter embark with the companies for your headquarters. The late outrages of the Indians in your district require prompt, decisive action to punish them. Should the force which will be at your disposal still be inadequate to make a clean sweep, Y will endeavor to throw a column on the southern boundary of your district, to advance north and co-operate with you. The Indian difficulties in the Humboldt District have been growing worse and worse for years, and I am determined to settle them now for the last time. Every Indian you may capture, and who has been engaged in hostilities present or past, shall be hung on the spot. Spare the women and children. Allow no citizens, unless employed by your order, to accompany the troops in the field. The officers of the medical department serving in your district, although assigned to posts, are nevertheless liable to any service in the field or elsewhere as the exigencies of the service may require. An assistant surgeon in place of Dr. Todd, promoted, will report to you in a few days. I have full faith in your ability, activity, energy, and zeal, and I take great pleasure in confiding to your hands the final settlement of this war.

With great regard, I am, colonel,

your obedient servant,