one like him, sent promptly, might alter the whole face of affairs. Have put all the reserves in motion Will go down myself on the 13th. Remain here a day or two to forward troops.

JAS. CHESNUT,

Brigadier-General.

[35.]

RICHMOND, VA., July 15, 1864.

General J. CHESNUT,

Columbia, S. C.:

General Gilmer has not recovered sufficiently for field duty. Inform me more fully of the matter referred to in your telegram.

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

[35.]

CHARLESTON, July 16, 1864.

His Excellency President DAVIS,

Richmond, Va.:

Yours of the 15th received. Subject of my late telegram requires no action now; will write by mail. All well here. Apparently the enemy were well and easily beaten. Will be able to relieve some of my troops. I return to Columbia on Monday next.

JAS. CHESNUT,

Brigadier-General.

[35.]

GAINESVILLE, July 31, 1864.

President DAVIS:

MY DEAR SIR: The present invasion of Florida threatens, I think, the loss of the portion east of the Suwannee. It ought not to be lost if avoidable. Much force you cannot spare from the main points, but much force is not necessary. I think two good regiments, with the small force now here and the aid which a rally of our people can furnish, will answer. The effective force here is not now exceeding 800, I believe. The value of the peninsula is in the large supply of meats (beef and pork) which it supplies, and in its being the only region from which sugar and molasses are now furnished. Its extensive sea-coast of about 1,000 miles may become of great importance if the war is protracted in affording facilities for importations of necessary army supplies, and for its fisheries and salt. In the present pressure upon your mind I confine myself to a very brief demand upon your attention, suggesting only in a few words what may deserve your notice.

With accustomed good wishes, I am, most truly, yours,

D. L. YULEE.

[Indorsement

AUGUST 9, 1864.

Secretary of War, for attention and communication with General Jones, commanding department.

J. D.

[35.]

HDQRS. DEPT. OF S. CAROLINA, Georgia, AND FLORIDA,
Charleston, S. C., August 5, 1864.

General S. COOPER,

Adjutant and Inspector General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: I respectfully recommend and ask that the entire reserve force of this State be called into service. By reference to my last