The observations from Morris Island show a small force of the enemy behind Little Folly.

Captain Haskell returned a short time since from a thorough reconnaissance of the coast to the north as far as Cape Romain. No enemy was observed, and the blockade was quite loose in that direction. The estimate given from Colonel Simonton's command is corroborated by the statements made in the diary of an Abolition officer, which came into our possession, the material extracts from which to the 10th of June, I had the honor to transmit to headquarters some days since. This diary mentioned six regiments, besides batteries and detached companies, which would make about the force estimated. Nothing to indicate a diminution of the force had occurred since the 10th. From a personal observation made yesterday, knowing the advantages and means for reconnaissance possessed by Colonel Simonton, I have no doubt his estimate is nearly correct.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. S. RIPLEY,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

Abstract from return of the District of East Florida, for June 30, 1863.

Present for duty.

Command. Officers. Men. Effective

total

present.

General staff. 16 ... ...

1st Florida Special 3 61 63

Battalion (one company).

2nd Florida Cavalry (five 17 356 370

companies).

partisan Rangers 13 187 194

(battalion).

Independent infantry 19 399 410

companies.

Milton (Florida) Artillery, 7 138 138

Companies A and B.

Total. 75 1,141 1,175

Command. Aggregate Aggregate Pieces of

present. present field

and artillery.

absent.

General staff. 16 16 ...

1st Florida Special 72 89 ...

Battalion (one company).

2nd Florida Cavalry (five 419 556 ...

companies).

partisan Rangers 248 361 ....

(battalion).

Independent infantry 471 642 ...

companies.

Milton (Florida) Artillery, 154 176 8

Companies A and B.

Total. 1,380 1,840 8

Location of troops in the District of East Florida, Brigadier General Joseph Finegan, C. S. Army, commanding, June 30, 1863.

BAYPORT.

Captain J. C. CHAMBERS.

Independent company, Captain J. C. Chambers.

Independent company, Captain S. M. G. Gary.

Independent company, Captain Samuel E. Hope.

CAMP COOPER (NEAR FERNANDINA).

Major ROBERT HARRISON.

2nd Florida Cavalry, Company K, Captain F. J. Clark.

Milton Artillery, Company B, Captain H. F. Abell.

GREEN COVE SPRINGS.

Independent company, Captain A. A. Ochus.