Mr. WILSON. I have here a letter of General Dyer to the SecyWar in regard to this whole matter. General Dyer says, in his let“ter: The act of April 19, 1864, before referred to authority to the SecyWar to t akc anfidivoelds full, complete and permanent possession, in behalf of the U.S. of all the lands and shores of the island of RockIsland. in the State of Illinois; saanrdythe only additional legislation thatWill beneces to effectthe samein regard to the small contig uous islands known as Benhanis Wilsons, and Win nehngoIslands, willbeto extend the provisions of that actsoastoincludethem. Their ownershipandoccupaiic by the U.S. are necessaryfor carrying outt a military surprises of the not, in addition to the ownership an occupancyof the landsandshores of RockIsland already provided for." He does not state why it is necessary, but that is the statement of this officer. We sent to the War Office for a map. The committee at 1st Wasrather opposed to purchasing these islands. Wilsons Island contains an area of 7 and 6 10ths acres, Winncbago about one acre, and Benhams Island two acres. The desireto connect the main island of ei rht linn red acres with then perisland byn dam or water power. These SlilfllFlSifllldS can cost but a very small amount at any rate. RockIsland consists of 800 acres, and the sum claimed is $203, 600. General Dyer says that sum is unquestionably too large, and the commissioners Willdoubtless cut it down; but he desires to secure these 3 small islands, and says it is necessary to do so for Government purposes. On the map sent to us from the War Dept the dam connects the upperisland I have forgotten which one it is with the main island in order to secure water power. I suppose the object is to connect the 2 islands by a dam tor the purpose of securing water. An appropriation is here made of $100,000 for the purposes of water power. The cost is not set down here precisely, nor the reasons why they need it; but General Dyer states that it is necessary for Government purposes, and General Rodman, who was here one or 2 days ago, makes the same statement.