of the Rio Grande in the vicinity of El Paso and the valley of
Mesilla, is proverbial for the production of fine vegetables and
fruits. Indeed, about El Paso, it is a complete garden with
flourishing vineyards, equalling in excellence those of the most
celebrated grape growing countries.

"By a judicious disposition of military stations along this line,
only a few troops would be required to protect the great northern
frontier of Sonora and Chihuahua, and enable us to carry out thellth article of our late treaty with Mexico more effectually, and
at the same time prevent any depredations which the Indians might
be disposed to commit on the road. Soon after, the settlement of
the country would make the presence of the military unnecessary,
either for the safety of a railway of the security of the
frontier. The strong holds of the Apaches, and their pathway to
Mexico, would be cut off.

"A wagon road established from the Gulf of California would
enable supplies to be transported along this line at one-half of
the present cost. The saving of one-third or more distance,
through a comparatively unsettled country, in transportation is
an important consideration in the construction of a railway, more
especially when men and materials, to a great extent, must be
brought from very remote points. The navigation of the Gulf of
California is said to be very good. The trade-winds from the
northwest, encountering the highlands of the peninsula of Lower
California, and forming a counter current under its lee, enable
sailing vessels to proceed advantageously along that coast.
Returning, by keeping on the eastern aide, or along the shore of
Sonora, they could avail themselves of the prevailing winds,
which regain their usual direction after sweeping across the wide