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General Beauregard, now thoroughly familiar with the topography of
Charleston and the surrounding country, understood how important it was to guard the
Stono.
He saw at a glance that, should the enemy land a sufficient force on
James Island, the city of
Charleston could easily be turned by way of that river.
To avert such a danger, he had a strong field-work erected on Battery Island, that being the lowest point of dry land before reaching the salt marshes which extend in an unbroken field on each side of the stream.
This work, although small, occupied a commanding position, which no hostile craft could approach unseen.
Towards the latter part of May it was completed and ready for service.
From various quarters messages of congratulation poured in to
General Beauregard, upon the brilliant success he had achieved.
The first in date was a telegram from
President Davis, which read as follows:
Thanks for your achievement and for your courtesy to the garrison of
Sumter.
If occasion offers, tender my friendly remembrance to
Major Anderson.
Then, from the
Secretary of War:
Accept my congratulations.
You have won your spurs.
How many guns can you spare for
Pensacola?
The next communication was from one whose attitude towards the administration already indicated the influence he would soon exercise over it:
My dear General,—In the midst of the
eclat of your glorious triumph you will, no doubt, value but little the tribute of a poor civilian who knows nothing of war; but I cannot refrain from joining in the general voice of your fellow-citizens, and congratulating you on the signal success which has crowned the first blow stricken in defence of our rights.
Louisiana is proud of her son, and I am Louisianian, heart and soul.
* * * * * * * *
Renewing my cordial greetings, and envying your delight at accomplishing such a result as you have, without the loss of one man,
I am your friend and servant,