[455] ironclad gunboat-rams, this harbor could be held against any naval force of the enemy, who could never bring here sea-worthy ironclad gunboats or steamers of light draught that could withstand the destructive effects of our harbor rams. The same means can also be used (with one less of each class) for Savannah and Mobile. I wish it understood, however, that I never desired to remove the construction of that ‘torpedo-ram’ from the competent naval officer in command of this station; all that I desired was, to see it afloat and ready for action as soon as possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
The following additional fleet is reported as sailed from Fort Pulaski to-day: four steamers, one river steamboat, one large sailing ship, one schooner under way, outward-bound, and ten or fifteen schooners at anchor.W. S. Walker, Brig.-Genl.
Appendix to chapter XXVIII.
Headquarters, Department S. C. And Ga., Charleston, S. C., Nov. 3d, 1862.Captain,—You will greatly oblige me by furnishing, on the requisitions of Dr. Cheves, three hundred pieces of gunboat plating, from two to three feet long, for use in connection with the boom. Let me also suggest that the three ships in the harbor might be arranged with port-holes and ‘quaker-guns’ or ‘dummies,’ and anchored near the line of boom, apparently for its defence. The dummies were found quite effective in retarding the enemy's movements at Centreville and the Potomac River. Respectfully, your obedient servant,
Capt. D. N. Ingraham, C. S. N., Comdg. C. S. naval forces, Charleston, S. C.
Secretary immediately authorized the casting of the 15-inch gun. Hope to get some more 10-inch soon. Randolph's resignation is a great loss to us. He took deep interest in your defences.
Enemy's ordinary fleet reported to have left Hilton Head, probably for an expedition on coast, or for the North. If the latter, it indicates Burnside's operations. Will telegraph further when more is known here.
