SUGAR LOAF, January 16, 1865 - 5 p. m.

Flag-Officer Pickney,

Wilmington:

It would be a great relief to me and conduce to the public defense for you to take charge of the river obstructions just below the city, and also man the batteries for their protection. Should you consent to do so, confer Captain James, chief engineer, now in Wilmington. The enemy now have one steamer in the river. I shall hold the position here and Fort Anderson, but it is possible they may pass our batteries.

BRAXTON BRAGG.

NEAR GANDER HALL, January 16, 1865 - 9.30 a. m.

Captain JAMES,

Chief Engineer, Wilmington:

General Bragg needs your services at headquarters immediately. He wishes to see Major Saunders and Colonel Gordon also. Communicate if in town.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SUGAR LOAF, January 16, 1865 - 3.15 p. m.

Captain WINDER,

Engineer Troops:

Telegraph again to Hawks to hasten back. See Burroughs as to all the landings within a miles and a half of Fort Anderson. I will be up to-night.

WM. H. JAMES,

Captain and Chief Engineer.

RICHMOND, January 16, 1865.

Major ROBERT STRANGE:

(Care General Bragg.)

Cannot you give me fuller particulars? Your telegram last night and General Bragg's, 13th, are all we have. Not informed whether attacks is naval or combined, in what force, nor when commenced.

JOHN B. SALE,

Military Secretary.

WILMINGTON, January 16, 1865.

Colonel JOHN B. SALE,

Colonel and Military Secretary, Richmond, Va.:

Enemy made a combined land and naval attack and captured Fisher and garrison about 1. m.

ROBERT STRANGE,

Major and Aide-de-Camp.