.MTA4MA.NzMwNzk

is about a mile in length, its greatest width about half a mile, and that it lies directly opposite the town of Sitka, and distant from it only about a quarter of a mile. If, in your opinion, this island is required for military purposes, you will designate and occupy it as a military reservation, and erect thereon? such of the buildings sent? with your command as you may deem proper. Should you deem it best, you are authorized to locate most of your military forces on this Island, and to construct a proper wharf for landing. In that case, little or no money will be expended on the buildings at Sitka proper, and your arrangements will be made in the? supposition that Japan? Island is to be the military depot for the District. As our information in regard to the topographical character of the several localities in Sitka Harbor is very imperfect, the location of the military depot is left to your discretion and judgement, after a careful examination of Sitka and the adjacent country. It is probable, however, that you will find it advisable, for the present, to station? your command in the Town of Sitka. There are several other islands which seem to command the different entrances to the harbor or anchorage. You will designate as military reservations such of these as you may deem necessary to be occupied for military defence, and prevent their occupation by Squatters and settlers. You will notify any persons? who attempt to build upon them that they are not open to settlement, and that they will not be allowed compensation for improvements which they may make. You will report? in full upon this subject, with maps of such lands as you think should be declared military reservations by proclamation? of the President of the United States. Very Respectfully, Your off. unclear James B. Fry Asst. Adjt. Genl.