Adam J. Slemmer to J. Hout, Secretary of War, February 12, 1861

Hon. J. Hout, Secretary of War:

Sr: Since the departure of Lieutenant Gilman as special messenger for Washington nothing of special interest has transpired. lam continuing the defenses, mounting guns on the ramparts, and blocking up the casemate embrasures. Having observed a battery in course of erection upon which they were mounting heavy guns, 8-inch columbiads, and as this battery would rake two bastions and the connecting curtains of this fort, I addressed the following note to Colonel Chase:

Fort PIckENs, Fua., February 11, 1861.

Sir: Lobserve you are erecting and arming a battery west of the light-house. I deem it my duty to protest against its further continuance, and also of all batteries which may bear on Fort Pickens.

very respectfully, your most obedient servant,