Harvey Brown to U. S. Transport Ship Atlantic, April 11, 1861

– Srr: You will make a reconnaissance of the island of Key West witha view to the erection of any field-works which may be required to enable the garrison of Fort Taylor and of the town of Key West to prevent a hostile landing. In making this project you will consult with the commander of the forces in the island, and call upon him for any necessary assistance. The project, when complete, should be submitted to headquarters of the Department of Florida for further orders. You will, for fear of accident, make it in duplicate, retaining one copy and forwarding the other to said headquarters. Iam, By

very respectfully, your obedient servant,