HEADQUARTERS FORT TAYLOR, FLA.,
March 27, 1861.
T. A. M. CRAVEN,
Lieutenant, Commanding U. S. Steamer Crusader, Harbor of Key West:
SIR: In reference to our conversation this morning and the letter shown by you to myself, and with the desire that we may act together should an occasion occur, I deem it advisable to state that this fort is fully garrisoned with veteran soldiers, and I believe it is entirely within my power to control this island and to prevent a lodgment thereon by any hostile force whatsoever; further, that I intend to treat any attempt to do so as an overt act of war, to be met at its initiation. I have no specific instructions from the War Department, but the course of my duty is clear, and I mean to follow it.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
WM. H. FRENCH,
Brevet Major, First Artillery, Commanding.