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

C. S. S. SEA BIRD, Off Roanoke Island, January 10, 1862.

HonorableS. R. MALLORY, Secretary of the Navy:

SIR: I understand that it is contemplated to improve the navigation of the Albermarle and Chesapeake Canal. To carry out improvements, which will very much enhance the usefulness of the canal, I further learn that the co-operation of the Government is indispensable.

Being enabled to speak from experience, I feel justified in saying that without the use of the canal heretofore, supplies from and imperatively requisite repairs at Gosport navy-yard could not have been received or effected. The vessels composing the squadron under my command could not without regular supplies and effectual repairs have been kept together, and by consequence, acting dispersively, would have been prevented from periodically maneuvering in sight of the enemy, and thus up to this time deterred him from venturing within Pamlico Sound, the great reservoir of the waters of North Carolina this side of Cape Fear.

Although very great facilities have save one has repeatedly passed, the more so that a large portion of its stock will be confiscated by the Government, and submit to your better judgement a consideration of the proposed improvements.

I have the honor to be, your obedient servant,

W. F. LYNCH, Flag-Officer.

DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS, Yorktown, January 10, 1862.

General S. COOPER, Adjt. General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: The vedettes, as I am informed by an official communication from General McLaws, report that the enemy the night before last was sounding the Swash Channel above the month of the Warwick River.

I think it not improbable that an attempt may be made to land between Land's End and Mulberry Island fort and to carry the fort from the rear. I believe that with the assistance of the ships of war and the fort under the command of Mr. C. St. george Noland, its present commander, late of the Navy, the attack, if made, will be unsuccessful.

I spoke to the Secretary of War on the subject of Mr. Noland's commission, and recommended him also in writing. He is acting as commanding officer of this fort (naval it was), much to the gratification, I believe, of the captains who rank him; but as he is an officer of great merit and a gentleman of honor and delicacy, he feels the neglect of the Government acutely, and considers himself, as he really is, in a false position. I beg leave therefore to recommend him again to the favorable consideration of the Department, and, as he would have had high rank had he remained in the U. S. Navy, would suggest that the rank of lieutenant-colonel be tendered to him.

I have not the boat to send him which he needs, and respectfully request that an order be sent to the Quartermaster's Department in Richmond to send him without delay a boat of the description he requires.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER, Major-General, Commanding.