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Copy Department of State Washington, 28th Oct. 1869

To General U.S. Grant, Secretary of War, ad interims

General: In the absence of specific legislation by Congress for the organization of Land Districts in Alaska, claims of pre-emption and settlements are not only without the sanctions of law but are in direct violation of laws applicable to the public domains. Military force may be used to remove intruders if necessary.

  Will you have the goodness to instruct Major General Halleck to this effect by telegraph, and request him to communicate the instruction to Major General Rousseau at Sitka.
  I have the honor to be, General, Your obedient servant, (crossed out: signed) William H. Seward.

Official copy. (signed) E. D. Townsend. Asst. Adjt. General. (forward)