Egbert L. Viele to Henry W. Benham, April 4, 1862

General H. W. BENHAM, Commanding First Division, Department of the South:

GENERAL: In my communication of yesterday I referred to the time it would take to put guns on Turtle Island, which, on account of the peculiar topography of that island, would be attended with delay and diffieulty. But the guns on Long Island can be put in position at once. I have one 8-inch and one 10-inch mortar which I can use. The rebels were busy all night last night moving troops towards Wilmington Island. They have evidently something on the tapis.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,