J. R. West, November 12, 1861

LIEUTENANT: In accordance with a personal communication from the colonel commanding the Southern District of California, I submit the following statements as to the defenses and supplies of this post:

Defenses.—Some delay has been involved in getting possession of all the boats upon the river. There is a boat at Gonzales’ Ferry, some thirty miles below this post, which I shall have in my possession within the next forty-eight hours, either by negotiation or seizure. Another boat is kept by a man named Winegar, sixteen miles above here. I shall take steps to have it secured as soon as possible. All others on the river are in my possession except the steamer which has been absent twenty-four hours over time on a trip to the mouth of the river for supplies. I am assured of the loyalty of the steatn-boat men, and see no reason to question it. It is manifestly so much to Mr. Yager’s interest to be faithful to the United States Government that I credit his assertions to that effect. He has co-operated with me in all my efforts to promote security. Whenever there is any doubt about the fidelity of any person I require them to take the oath of allegiance. This and keeping them watched is all that I can do until I have proper grounds for taking them into custody. The Colorado is very low, but there are really no fords upon it that can be used by an armed force. A few travelers may partially wade and swim across in one or two places, but no munitions of war could be crossed in that way. The reported ford at the mouth of the river remains yet to be inquired into. Rafts could be constructed on the left bank out of cottonwood and other trees, and should the enemy resort to that method at any point properly removed from this post I am ata loss to counteract it. Little has yet resulted from my communication with the Indians. I have had some informal interviews with one or two of the chief Yumas, and am to have a grand talk on the coming Sunday. As yet I have formed no high opinion of their efficiency as allies. The circuit of the Yumas is limited. They are at war with the Maricopas and Pimas, consequently will not venture into the country whence our enemies are expected, and the same cause prevents the receipt of news from the last-mentioned tribes. I shall spare no effort toward being kept properly informed with such means as I can command. But I shall mainly rely for defense upon constant vigilance and preparation. In the latter respect everything is to be done—organization, temporary field-works, preparation of ordnance and ammunition, drill of artillery detachments, We. Without wishing to cast any reflections upon the command which preceded the present garrison, I cannot forbear the remark that a very great improvement in its late defenses has been found necessary. Two add to the strength of the post, and I recommend that they be sent here as soon as possible.

Medical department.—The. post surgeon states officially that the medical supplies are ample for 300 men until May 1, 1862. He also has called my notice to the necessity of issues of antiscorbutics. By my direction the acting commissary of subsistence has purchased one month’s supply of potatoes, to be issued in accordance with Revised Army Regulations, but no such opportunity is likely to offer again, and steps should be taken to supply the command either by sea or land transportation. The health of the men is generally good. There are no local diseases to be feared here, except such as arise from bad whisky and diseased women.

Ordnance and ordnance stores.—I inclose herewith a copy of the list turned over to me by the late commander. The four 12-pounder mountain howitzers can only be used at short range against an assault. Pieces of 12-pounders or 18-pounders planted on the hill on the other side of the river would do us great damage. The howitzers and ammunition need much preparation for active service. This is being done. The supply of shell, shot, &c., is limited. I shall endeavor to increase it by making canister out of musket buck-and-ball cartridges. For muskets I have on hand 28,000 rounds and 11,000 expanding bullets, as per list herewith; 14,000 brought with me and 6,000 in hands of company commanders. Total, 59,000 rounds; an ample supply. With diligence I trust soon to feel better satisfied with the condition of this branch of our defense.

Subsistence.—l inclose herewith a statement of the acting commissary of subsistence showing the condition of this department in a shape that requires no comment at my hands.

Quartermaster’s department.—Further examination is needed into supplies generally before a report can be submitted. I inclose requisition for clothing, of which there is great need. It is [for] the incompleted quota of the three companies here for the first six months of their service.

Supplies on the way.—I am not apprised of any. Those for which the steamer has gone below are included in quantities on hand.

Respectfully, «e.,