Doc. 104. attack on White river Station.
Sir: I have the honor to report that an attack was made on this place at half-past 4 o'clock A. M., by the Tenth Mississippi (rebel) regiment, under command of Colonel Louther.
The garrison had just completed the stockade on which they were engaged when you left, and in it they fought bravely, though their pickets had been surprised, and the rebels were close upon them before they were discovered.
The Lexington had steam up and moved immediately out into the stream, and opened on them a rapid fire.
The enemy was quickly repulsed and retired to the woods.
We have no casualties, and of the garrison one was killed and four wounded. One negro was killed, and two families of refugees carried off. Two dead and three wounded rebels fell into our hands, but most of their killed and wounded were dragged off the field.
The wounded federals and rebels are being cared for in this ship.
Had there been another armed vessel here I could have cut off their retreat and captured the whole command, but I did not deem it prudent to leave this point with the Lexington.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant.
Henry Booby, Acting Ensign, Commanding. Lieutenant-Commander S. L. Phelps, Commanding 6th District Mississippi Squadron.
