HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA, Charleston, S. C., November 4, 1863.

J. R. TUCKER,
Commanding C. S. Naval Forces Afloat, Charleston, S. C.:

SIR: The commanding general, having to visit James Island with the President this morning, requested me to inclose for your information Major Naris' telegram,* which is believed to be reliable in Richmond.

He directed me also to say that he hoped, in view of the possible contingency, it would suit your views to place one or two of your iron-clads, at night, in position to fire between Fort Johnson and Comming's Point, and between Fort Johnson and Battery Simkins, in case the latter work should be unfortunately carried.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

[THOMAS JORDAN,]

Chief of Staff.

HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA, Charleston, S. c., November 4, 1863.

Brigadier General R. S. RIPLEY,
Commanding First Military District, Mount Pleasant, S. C.:

GENERAL: Inclosed is a telegram received from Major Norris,* chief of signal corps, Richmond.

The commanding general wishes you to make all necessary arrangements for the contingency, and with a view to the rapid re-enforcement of the command on Sullivan's Island from the troops in Christ Church, which portion of your district, however, should not be left uncovered until the decisive moment.

He suggests also that the Twentieth Regiment South Carolina Volunteers (Keitt's), alternating with some other good regiment, should take post for the present on Sullivan's Island at night, returning to their encampments just before daylight, to escape observation.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

[THOMAS JORDAN,]

Chief of Staff.

HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA, Charleston, S. C., November 4, 1863.

Brigadier General WM. B. TALIFERRO,
Commanding Seventh Military District, James Island, S. C.:

GENERAL: I have to inclose for your information a telegram herewith from Major Norris, chief of signal corps, Richmond.* In view of the possible contingency indicated, the commanding general wishes you to hold your troops prepared at night for the emergency. You will please look particularly to the east lines, exposed to approach from Morris Island, giving due regard, however, to the proper protection of the new lines.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

[THOMAS JORDAN,]

Chief of Staff.

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*Not found; but see Journal of Operations in Charleston Harbor, Part I, p. 155.

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