whenever they occur; and the effect is to demoralize the men and dishearten the offices. No officer's commission under such circumstances is a guarantee for the loss of reputation.

* * * * * *

The force of this district is not sufficient to protect the property here, nor is it enough to make a successful defense if the line is attacked in force.

* * * * * *

If this line is abandoned from any cause great misery and loss of property will be the result.

[28.]

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., richmond, Va., December 18, 1863.

General G. T. BEAUREGARD,

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

GENERAL: I have the honor by the direction of His Excellency the President to inform you that a scout who has just arrived form Baltimore and has frequently brought General Lee and the Confederate Government reliable information, reports that the Washington Government have abandoned all hope of taking Charleston and there the whisper is that they are about to attack Savannah. He further stated in support of this intelligence that the U. S. Monitor Weehawken was lost on her way from Charleston to join the expedition against Savannah. It is deemed more probable, however, that the enemy will turn his forces against Wilmington, if he gives up the siege of Charleston, but the report as made is communicated to you for your information and guidance.

I remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. M. BROWNE,

Colonel and Aide-de-Camp.

[28.]

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Columbia, December 19, 1863.

General G. T. BEAUREGARD,

Commanding Department of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida:

SIR: I have the honor to forward by direction of His Excellency the Governor a certified copy of certain resolutions recently adopted by the General Assembly of this State.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

B. F. ARTHUR,

Private Secretary.

[Inclosure.]

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, December 12, 1863.

The committee on the military, to whom was referred, at the called session of September with leave to report at the regular session, sundry resolutions in relation to the conduct of our troops engaged, in the defense of Charleston, and also resolutions from the Senate on the same subject, report:

That they recommend that all the resolutions referred to be laid on the table, and that in lieu thereof the following be adopted.

Respectfully,

W. F. HUTSON,

Chairman.