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and Sanchez were left on the wreck.
I presume they have got back to the company by this time.
This boat is being repaired, and, from what I can learn, will be here some days.
The Webb has a big bite out of her bow. She will be repaired and her prow covered with iron.
There is a great deal of indignation here at the destruction of the Indianola.
I should not like to be in the place of the Lieutenant who ordered her to be burnt.
This is a beautiful little town, on the right bank of the river.
It has something of the appearance of Selma.
Ned Langley says he is waiting patiently for his appointment.
Our guns are at Fort Taylor, and Captain James McCloskey, an old acquaintance of Lieutenant Claiborne, says he thinks we can get them.
My love to all the boys.
Very truly yours,
Another letter from Lieutenant Patten:
Dear Rowan,--I wrote you a short letter on my arrival here last Tuesday, and now on the eve of my departure again. The week has been consumed in effecting the necessary repairs, which are now nearly completed. The effect of the late conflicts have been entirely obliterated by new wood-work and a coat of gas-tar. The gun which was damaged the night of the fight has been bored out, and will soon be on board ready for service. I do not know for certain where we are destined, but think for Burwick's bay, if there is sufficient water for us to get there. There is a fleet of Federal gunboats there, among which we will have some fun. I find Captain McCloskey much of a gentleman. How do you get on with sassafras tea and bull now? I suspect you will scarcely make a shadow when I see you. Our bill of fare consists of bacon, fat beef, venison steak, eggs, biscuit, and strong green tea. I hope we will get some coffee soon. Tell Major Clark if he wants a horse, he can have Alex. until I come back. Should any letters have come for me, please forward them and write me at this place, to which we will return from Burwick's bay. General E. Kirby Smith arrived here the other day. I saw him at church yesterday. Major Brown is not with him. Excuse a longer letter. This is such a bad pen. I am horrified at my own writing. It would disgrace John B. Rowan or Ferd. Claiborne.
