NOVEMBER 4, 1861.

[General RIPLEY:]

You are authorized to retain General Trapier, agreeably to your telegram of yesterday.

S. COOPER.

[6.]

CHARLESTON, November 5, 1861.

General S. COOPER:

General Drayton reports enemy's fleet engaged our batteries, Port Royal, about 10 this morning. One steamer reported hit and towed off; another aground. This afternoon passed out of range.

R. S. RIPLEY.

[6.]

RICHMOND, November 6, 1861.

Brigadier General R. S. RIPLEY,

Commanding, &c., Charleston, S. C.:

GENERAL: The Secretary of War desires that you will cause to be organized and placed in camp near Charleston the three companies of light artillery under Major Edward B. White, to be known as the Palmetto Battalion of Light Artillery, South Carolina Volunteers, and that as soon as the fourth company shall be in readiness to join, you will cause it to be mustered into service and attached to the battalion.

Very respectfully, &c.,

S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector-General.

[6.]

CHARLESTON, November 7, 1861.

General S. COOPER:

The enemy did not renew the attack at Port Royal yesterday. Had assembled in force within the bar at sunset. Grnad attack expected to-day. Both forts re-enforced. General Ripley started last nigh tfor Port Royal.

J. H. TRAPIER,

Brigadier-General.

[6.]

CHARLESTON, November 7, 1861.

General COOPER:

Our forts at Port Royal have been hotly engaged all day with the enemy. At sunset firing had ceased. Result not known.

J. H. TRAPIER.

[6.]

MILLEDGEVILLE, November 7, 1861.

President JEFFERSON DAVIS:

I am much gratified at the information contained in your telegram. General Lee has my highest confidence and shall have my cordial co-operation and support.

JOS. E. BROWN.

[6.]