OPERATIONS IN N.C AND S. E. VA. [CHAP.XIII.

most disaffected; and these approaches can be made without coming into contact with our forces higher up the river or those stationed in Hyde County. It is seriously feared that an attempt will be made to make a lodgment by the enemy in some part of the Albermarle County for the winter, and if they are prevented by the forces on Roanoke Island they will attempt it up the Pamilco River, disembarking at some point not defended , cross the country, a distance only of 15 or 20 miles, and occupying Plymounth or some point on the Roanoke, with the hope of accessions to their strength from the disaffected population of Turrell, Washington, and Beaufort Counties; and therefore these gentlemen think there should be force in the county of Washington to protect the river and be on alert to resist any invasion that may be attempted from the Pamlico River. I regret to hear there is fear to be apprehended from any disloyal feeling, but these gentlemen assure me it is so, and unless it is corrected soon, it will probably increase as texas are imposed and collected. What we need is some discreet, intelligent officer sent to plan, direct, and control our defenses and preparations for defense. We want an intelligent head. The people are willing to work or fight, but their energies need directions. It would be exceedingly difficult to dislodge the enemy if it be true that we have so many disloyal citizens in that county. I hope and believed the state of things is somewhat exaggerated, but I hope it will claim your earliest and promptest attention.

Yours, respectfully,

ASA BRIGGS.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF THE PENINSULA, Yorktown, October 7, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army: SIR: There have been within the last few days two deserters from the enemy's ranks, who bring very reliable and important information, which I desire may be laid before the Secretary of War without delay. One of these is an intelligent boy, a native of Saint Louis, Mo.; the other a Northern man, who has lived, and has a sister and other relatives, in Savannah. The statements of these men, who don't know each other, and who deserted on different days, are corroborated by information through many other reliable sources. The important points are the following, to wit: 1st. It has been fully determined upon the attack Yorktown by water first, and then, if unsuccessful, by land and water at the same time.

2nd. Re-enforcements to the number of 30,000 men will be sent to Fort Monroe and Newport News immediately, of which 5,000 arrived since last Monday.

3rd. Seventy brass rifled field pieces, for field service, and 500 horses are now at Fort Monroe in charge of the regulars, and a great many covered wagons.

4th. The men of the command at Newport News have been informed that no quarters will be built for them there this winter, but that they will winter in Yorktown.

5th. General Wool, in a speech to his troops at Newport News on Monday, just a week ago, announced to them that their march would soon e for Yorktown.

6th. Troops are arriving at Fort Monroe and Newport News in considerable number daily. They are generally sent to Newport News at