R. Drum to John Mullan, March 31, 1862

(Via Vancouver, Wash. Ter.) First Lieut. JOHN MULLAN, Second Artillery, U. S. Army, Commanding Walla Walla and Fort Benton Wagon Road Expedition: STR: In answer to your letter addressed to the general commanding the department, I am instructed to inform you that the general has written to the War Department relative to a continuance of the expedition under your command. Until advised as to the designs of the Government, the general desires you to retain the escort and await at

Cantonment Wright farther instructions from these headquarters. As the Ninth Regiment of Infantry remains on this coast, the escort will, should this work be discontinued, repair to Fort Vancouver, where instructions will be received as to the distribution of the troops.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,