Unknown to G. W. Patten, April 17, 1862

Col. G. W. PATTEN, Ninth Infantry, U. S. Army, Presidio of San Francisco, Cal.:

MAJOR: You have been assigned to the command of the post at Fort Steilacoom, with a general supervision of all other military stations on the sound, whether at present occupied or not. After assuming command of Fort Steilacoom 1 wish you to make a critical examination of the condition of the command, and particularly of the staff departments, not only their present condition, but examine the amounts of money and property in the different departments from the moment Captain Woodruff, Ninth Infantry, was relieved up to the time you assume command, and should you find that the officers responsible have not faithfully performed their duties relieve such officers at once. I am determined that the money and property of the United States shall not be squandered away by unworthy agents. As soon as conveniont after establishing yourself at Fort Steilacoom I desire you to visit the posts at Townsend, San Juan Island, and Bellingham Bay. The first and last are at present unoccupied, and are in charge of special agents. I want to know whether the barracks and public property have been well taken care of, &c. On the subject above referred to I will thank you to make full and frequent reports.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant, _