The demand for the Surrounded of Galveston.
The telegraph has briefly announced the fact that the commander of the Federal naval force off Galveston, Texas, had made a demand for the surrender of that place. We extract the following details from the Houston Telegraph, of the 17th and 23d of May. In order to allay excitement and prevent unfounded rumors gaining currency, we have obtained the following from official sources. Saturday morning the frigate Santee had a white flag up as a signal of a desire to communicate with the shore. During the day a messenger came ashore, bearing the following demand: U. S. Frigate Santee, Off Galveston, Texas, May , 1862.
To the Military Commandant commanding Confederate forces, Galveston, terms.
Sir:
In a few days the naval and land forces of the United States will appear off the town of Galveston to enforce its surrender.
To prevent the effusion of blood and of property which would result from the bombardment of your town.
I here by demand the surrender of the place with all its fortifications and batteries in his vicinity, with all arms and munitions of war. I trust you will comply with this demand.
To the Military Commandant commanding Confederate forces, Galveston, terms.
Sir:
The bearer of the above message stated that an answer could be made any time within twenty-four house. Owing to the wires being down during the day, this message was telegraphed up till in the evening. This morning Gen. Hebert has instructed Col. Cook to reply that when the land and naval forces make their appearance the demand will be answered. Meanwhile we can -ure the people that the Island will not be given up open a mere paper bombardment. Nothing will be left undone to provice for the enemy when he comes. The General commanding advises the people to keep cool — there is no danger. When the enemy lands and endeavors to penetrate into the interior, he will be fought on every inch of ground. In the meantime every man should stand by his arms and be ready to take the field at a moments warning. The above is all that has taken place that is of interest to the public. Galveston, May 22, 8 P. M.--The transport steamer left for the eastward this morning. A Federal -g of war has arrived to-day, and is now lying at anchor with the Santee. The foreign curtain have communicated with the Captain of the Santee, with a view of firing upon some paint that might be respected in the bombardment, is a point of refuge for foreign subjects. The following is Captain reply to them:
U. S. Frigate Saunter, May 22, 1862.
Gentleman:
Let the you gentlemen, that no person can deplore more than myself, the misery that would result from the bombardment of the town of Galveston and its fortifications, yet it is a duty that will become necessary to enforce its surrender.
It is not in my power to give you any assurance of security during the bombardment, for it is impossible to tell what direction the shot and shell will take. Gentleman:
