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succeeded. But this purchasing stores for a vessel is a trade by itself; and these gentlemen know very little about business except as regards filling their own pockets at any other persons expense: the consequence being, that several vessels have been and are still detained for want, only, of their stores.

I do not know whether this habit of extorting commissions to be added to the bills, is considered honorable among business men, but it is very common out here and these men are making the most of their opportunity. Rumors are rife about even higher officials, but Capt Scammon I am glad to say bears an unblemished reputation.

Col. Bulkley has been very liberal in his appropriations for the scientific work and I must express my great obligation to him there for.

[[margin]] I am fitting out each vessel with outfit & instructions. [[/margin]]

The other evening I took up to his room for his approval the following "roving commission" which he very kindly approved. (The phraseology is not mine.)  
      
May 21,1866 &c &c

Special Order No.45.
1st Lieutenant W.H.Dall, Asst. Surgeon, in charge