William W. Mackall to S. Lovell, March 6, 1861

Capt. ©. S. LOVELL, Sixth Infantry, Commanding Fort Humboldt, Cal. :

SIR: The commanding general directs you to send Lieutenant Collins with a party of thirty men to the Eel River, or to the settlements on its tributaries, to give protection to the inhabitants and their property, both of which, it is reported to the general, have been attacked and in some instances destroyed by the Indians. Direct him to chastise any party of Indians who may commit depredations and to report to you fully on the character of the country, the numbers and location of the inhabitants and their stock, the numbers and character of the Indians, and the best position for a post in that district, and the benefits to be expected from one; the roads and the facilities for building, Sic. This detachment will remain in the field until this report has been submitted to the general and his orders received.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,