Joseph R. West to David Fergusson, January 28, 1862

CAPTAIN: Move with your company as soon as practicable, after receipt of this order, either to Warner’s ranch or to Temecula, as the condition of the roads promises best. Take with you ten days’ rations; use the San Diego post teams, putting eight mules to a wagon. Take with you only two wagons. Leave all your surplus company property at San Diego for future disposition. Resort to hired transportation if necessary if the post teams are unfit for service. On reaching Warner’s ranch or Temecula report in writing to Maj. David Fergusson, First Cavalry California Volunteers, commanding Camp Wright, for instructions.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,