Transcription:
J. H. G. 2. Parks in Oregon and Washington respectively, wherein existsthe most splendid lakes, streams, cascades and falls
anywhere to be found in mountain regions. If these districts were the only ones that contained necessary water supply for
the use of cities and towns In neighboring valleys, the situation would be momentously different; in that event they would
probably have been harnessed to the utilitarian needs of humanity long before they were petitioned by those same communities
to be irrevocably set aside for park purposes---not as local parks of a limited population which might change its mind in
a few years, but as great national pleasure-grounds for the perpetual use and enjoyment of all the pleasure-loving people
of the United States, and tourists of other lands. In the particular instance under consideration, I believe it to be the
undisputed fact---based upon the most intimate acquaintance for nearly twenty years with the mountain region of the Pacific
Coast from Mount Shasta in northern California to Mount Baker near the north line of Washington---that inexhaustible sources
of pure water may be obtained for the purpose for which these Yosemite streams are sought to be appropriated, from other mountain
supplies (though perhaps not so easily and inexpensively) outside the park, from a territory not well adapted to park purposes.
I am advised by persons whom I know to be competent and truthworthy observers who have been over that 06232