Montholon is here in the place of Mr. Saligny. He expressed to me his entire satisfaction with the instructions given to General Banks. These instructions are copied into one of the leading papers here, and support to be taken from a U. S. paper. From all I see of the French rulers here, I infer they have no idea at this time of any interference in the war in our company.

* * * * * *

THOS. CORWIN.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,
New Orleans, March 14, 1864.

Rear-Admiral W. B. SHUBRICK,

U. S. Navy, Chairman Light-House Board, Washington, D. C.:

SIR: Your letters of March 1, instant, is this day received. The positions of Pass Cavallo and Brazos Santiago, Tex., will hereafter be permanently held by the forces of the United States.

Very respectfully, I am, sir, your most obedient servant,

N. P. BANKS,

Major-General, Commanding.

FRANKLIN, LA., March 14, 1864.

(Received 11.40 p.m.)

Brigadier-General STONE,

Chief of Staff:

GENERAL: There are no wagons at Brashear. I do not think anything would be gained by putting the train on the cars at Thibodeaux. There are 300 mules and fifty wagons. If Captain Morse can make the necessary arrangements it will be necessary to order the commanding officer at Thibodeaux to direct train to be loaded up either at La Fourche or at Terre Bonne. Is Captain Morse directed?

D. C. HOUSTON,

Chief Engineer.

THIBODEAUX, LA., March 14, 1864-9.40 a.m.

Brigadier General C. P. STONE,

Chief of Staff:

The pontoon train left Donaldsonville this morning and will probably reach this point some time to-morrow.

E. L. MOLINEUX,

Colonel, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,
New Orleans, March 14, 1864.

Major D. C. HOUSTON,

Brashear:

MAJOR: The pontoon wagons left Donaldsonville early this morning. At that rate they will not reach Brashear before Wednesday or Thursday. Cannot some wagons be prepared at Brashear to