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without confusion.
The vessels were placed somewhat nearer to the works and were able to throw in their shell which were before falling into the water.
One or two leading vessels having made the mistake of anchoring too far off, caused those coming after them to commit a like error; but when they all got into place, and commenced work in earnest, the shower of shell (115 per minute) was irresistible.
So quickly were the enemy's guns silenced that not an officer or man was injured. . . .
At 7 A. M., on the 25th, I made signal to get under way and form in line of battle, which was quickly done.
The order to attack was given, and the Ironsides took position in her usual handsome style, the monitors following close after her. All the vessels followed according to order, and took position without a shot being fired at them, excepting a few shots fired at the four last vessels that got into line.
The firing this day was slow, only sufficient to amuse the enemy while the army landed, which they were doing five miles to the eastward of the fleet. . . .
In the bombardment of the 25th the men were engaged firing slowly for seven hours. The rebels kept a couple of guns on the upper batteries firing on the vessels, hitting some of them several times without doing much damage.
The Wabash and Powhatan being within their range, the object seemed mainly to disable them, but a rapid fire soon closed them up. Everything was coolly and systematically done throughout the day, and I witnessed some beautiful practice. . . .
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
[no. 142. see page 819.]
North Atlantic Squadron, U. S. flag-Ship Malvern, off Wilmington, Dec. 24, 1864.
Hon. Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.:
Sir:--I have the honor to inform you that I attacked the forts at the mouth of the Cape Fear River this morning at 12.30, and after getting the ships in position, silenced it in about an hour and a half, there being no troops here to take possession.
I am merely firing at it now to keep up practice.
The forts are nearly demolished, and as soon as troops come we can take possession; we have set them on fire, blown some of them up, and all that is wanted now is troops to land to go into them.
I suppose General Butler will be here in the morning.
We have had very heavy gales here, which tugs, monitors, and all rode out at their anchors.
The transports have gone into Beaufort, North Carolina.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Hon. Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.:
