James H. Carleton to D. Buell, U. S. Army, June 23, 1861

Maj. D. ©. BUELL, U. S. Army, Assistant Adjutant-General, San Francisco, Cal.:

MAJOR: Until I heard a rumor that the general was negotiating for the Mission San Fernando as a post for this command I had intended to remove this camp to some position more open to the cool breezes coming from the ocean than the spot where it now is seems to be. I was induced to come here mainly for convenience to water, but I am disappointed in the ground, becoming easily pulverized into dust, and in its being a much hotter place than I at first supposed it would be. If the troops are soon to move to San Fernando 1 will not encounter the trouble of breaking up this camp to move into some other prior to that change. If not, then I shall order a board having the doctor upon it to select a site less hot and dusty than this, and having a view to salubrity, provided one can be found not too far removed from the depot in Los Angeles. If not an improper request, I beg to be informed as to the probability of this command going to the Mission.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,