George Wright to William H. Gardner, U. S. Navy, March 12, 1862

Capt. WILLIAM H. GARDNER, U. S. Navy, Commanding Navy-Yard, Mare Island, Cal. :

CAPTAIN: A reconnaissance has been made by the chief engineer of the army on this coast, and a plan for defensive works submitted to guard the approaches to this city either by land or water. To guard against the possibility of a hostile fleet passing our first and second lines, and forcing its way up Raccoon Straits, and aiming a blow at the navy-yard and the arsenal at Benicia, it is proposed to erect batteries on points San Pablo and San Pedro to command the entrance of San Pablo Bay. We have no difficulty in throwing up the batteries, but one great embarrassment is the want of heavy guns. I can get none from the East, and have to rely upon the resources of this country. Under these circumstances I shall be glad to ascertain from you if there areany heavy guns and suitable ammunition at the navy-yard which we could obtain for the batteries. I propose to issue instructions to Captain McAllister, chief of the ordnance department on this coast, to take immediate steps to obtain materials and establish a foundry for casting guns and projectiles.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,