174 
BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 
Your observations should all be made with a view to their bearing upon the prac- 
tical question, as to how the salmon interests can best be protected, and to presenting 
to Congress a clear and succinct report upon the entire subject. 
Three subjects are presented by the investigations in question, namely : First, 
the natural history of the salmon and the physical characteristics of their environ 
ment, in connection with which the river fishes generally may be studied. Second, 
the conditions, methods, and statistics of the salmon fisheries. Third, the artificial 
propagation of the salmon in Alaskan rivers. 
Mr. Stone has been detailed to accompan3^ you on account of his extensive knowl- 
edge respecting salmon culture on the Pacific coast. He should be given special 
charge of that branch of tlie work, but he will undoubtedly be able to assist you in 
the other subjects. Otherwise you will apportion the work among yonr assistants in 
such manner as seems best. 
The duration of your stay in Alaska will be determined by the length of the 
season suitable for field investigations. A letter has been addressed to the Alaska 
Commercial Company, requesting them to furnish you and your party with transpor- 
tation to and from Alaska, and to grant you the customary facilities at their stations. 
You will call at tlie office of the company immediately upon your arrival in San Fran- 
cisco, and ascertain what arrangements can be made with them. 
Should the opportunities occur for sending mail home, you will inform me, from 
time to time, of the jirogressof your work. 
Very respectfully, 
M. McDonald, 
Commissioner. 
