Unknown, February 12, 1862

U S. Chief Engineer, Dept. of the Pacific, San Francisco, Cal.: COLONEL: The Governor of the State, with the chairman of the military committee, has just called to see me on the subject of coast defenses. A bill is now being matured in the Legislature making appropriations, and these gentlemen are extremely anxious to have something tangible to base their calculations on. 1 will thank you for a report as to the points you have selected, or have in view, for fieldwork to guard the approaches to this city, and also what amount of money could be judiciously expended in their erection. As the Governor and Legislature have manifested much anxiety on this subject, I shall be glad to receive your report as soon as possible.

With great respect, your obedient servant,