William W. Mackall to C. S. Merchant, February 18, 1861

Lieut. Col. C. S. MERCHANT, Third Artillery, Commanding Presidio of San Francisco, Cal.: SIR: Brigadier-General Johnston directs me to say that he wishes you to exercise a general supervision over the fort at Fort Point, commanded by Captain Lendrum, Third Artillery. The following instructions will be given to that officer, and enforced, viz: First. There must be, night and day, at least two sentinels, one on the barbette battery, and one at the gate. Second. When the gates are closed and opened it must be done under the supervision of the officer of the day, in whose charge the keys must always remain. Third. The postern gate must never be opened in the morning until the sentinel on the barbette battery has examined the circuit of the work, nor main gate be opened until the grounds within musket range of the work has been examined by apatrol. Fourth. During the absence of the patrol the guard must remain under arms. Fifth. The fastenings of the lower shutters to be examined by the officer of the day at retreat. Sixth. During the time employed by a part of the garrison in removing powder and stores from the outer store-houses the remainder of the garrison must be under arms and properly stationed. Seventh. No smoking will be allowed on the parade ground. Eighth. The men will not be permitted to go on the barbette battery except on duty. Ninth. Proper orders will be given and supervision had to prevent the destruction of public property of the engineers. Tenth. Supply of eartridges to be prepared for the flank guns on land face and placed in service magazine. Eleventh. The main magazine must never be opened or entered except under the supervision of a commissioned officer, and with all the precautions usual in such cases. Twelfth. Untilall the guns are mounted for the defense of the ditch, loaded shells must be kept on the land face of the barbette over the main gate. Thirteenth. The quartermaster must immediately prepare rough gun-racks. Fourteenth. He further directs that the regimental quartermaster be placed on duty at the fort until the place is put in order and reported for his orders. I am, sir,

very respectfully, your obedient servant,