FORT SUMTER, July 7, 1864 - 4 p. m.

The enemy continue a heavy fire on us. Their evident intention is to destroy our boom and our defenses against assault, as also to break through the gorge wall. In the first part of their plan they have to some extent succeeded. The fire is quite as damaging as any bombardment since the year commenced. We have no labor to repair. Can't you send me 50 more men?

J. C. MITCHEL,

Captain.

Captain W. F. NANCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Indorsement.]

HEADQUARTERS FIRST MILITARY DISTRICT,
Charleston, July 7, 1864.

Respectfully forwarded, for information of department.

I have replied to Captain Mitchel that I have no force of laborers or soldiers to send him.

R. S. RIPLEY,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

FORT SUMTER, July 7, 1864 - 6.10 p. m.

Our flag has been cut down three times, and is torn to pieces. Can you not have me sent the one I made requisition for?

J. C. MITCHEL,

Captain.

Captain NANCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

FORT SUMTER, July 8, 1864 - 11.35 a. m.

Fire of the enemy not quite so rapid as yesterday. They ceased firing about 12 o'clock last night, and did not recommence until daylight. Twenty shots fired during the night; 4 missed. There is another gun of large caliber mounted at Wagner this morning.

J. C. MITCHEL,

Captain, Commanding.

Captain NANCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

FORT SUMTER, July 8, 1864 - 8.30 p. m.

Three hundred and forty-six shots fired since daylight; 20 missed. Fire continued slowly from 30-pounder Parrotts. The smallest favors in the shape of laborers thankfully received. The monitors have been loading up, apparently with ammunition.

J. C. MITCHEL,

Captain.

Captain NANCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.