Unknown 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,
Olympia, June 24, 1861.
SIR: I notice in the public journals that by orders from the headquarters of this military department the troops are being withdrawn
from many of the posts in this Territory. While the executive and the
under existing circumstances, for concentrating the Government forces
at certain points, I deem it to be my duty most respectfully to suggest
to the general commanding the danger to which our northern frontier