would have to encounter. The James Island line is their best; but that also is very strong. I think it is more probable they will move from Stono Inlet along Folly Island, thence Morris Island, to endeavor to take Fort Sumter a la Pulaski; but they may find that to be a piece of folly.

With regard to the mortars for the defense of the city I have long felt the necessity, and have made several applications, but in vain, for several more, to be located at the points designated by you and in some of the entire line of works, intending, as a denier reassort, to borrow them from Savannah at the eleventh hour, which was done as soon as the enemy's monitors appeared this morning off the bar.

Thanking you for your communication, I remain, yours, truly,

G. T. BEAUREGARD,

General, Commanding.

CHARLESTON, S. C., April 5, 1863.

Captain PAGE, or

OFFICERS Commanding C. S. NAVAL FORCES AFLOAT, Savannah, Ga.:

Iron-clads have all left Port Royal and four are already off the bar here. This would seem a proper time for a diversion against Port Royal by one of our iron-clads from Savannah.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

CHARLESTON, S. C., April 5, 1863-2.30 p. m.

Brigadier General W. H. MERCER, Savannah, Ga.:

Four monitors are outside and four more on the way. Send immediately three 10-inch sea-coast mortars, with implements complete, and detachments of men under Captain Martin to serve them. Platforms and ammunition are not required. Hold movable column and siege train ready to come at moment's notice-before troops from Pocotaligo.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

CHARLESTON, S. C., April 5, 1863-3 p. m.

Brigadier General H. W. MERCER, Savannah, Ga.:

All monitors are outside. Send movable column immediately to stop on Savannah turnpike, 2 1/2 miles from new bridge across Ashley River. Siege train will come afterward or via Augusta. Inform when troops leave.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

HDQRS. DEPT. SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. C., April 5, 1863.

Brigadier General S. R. GIST,

Commanding, &c., James Island:

GENERAL: The movable column from Savannah has been ordered to halt 2 1/2 miles from the new bridge. The commanding general desires that

56 R R-VOL XIV