P.G.T. Beauregard to John G. Foster, July 27, 1863

GENERAL: If practicable, at present, would it not be well to remove one of those 10-inch columbiads from Battery Gregg to Bat234 8. C. AND G. A. COASTS, AND IN MID. AND E. FLA. [Car X. L.

tery Wagner, and fill its place with a Dahlgren 9-inch or an 8-inch naval gun, on columbiad carriage, to fire under great elevation on the works in advance of Battery Wagner? ;

The other empty chambers on Battery Gregg might also be filled with 8-inch naval guns. chips

Those ordered to Battery Cheves are intended to be used in like manner, with about 8 pounds of powder and a great elevation, somewhat like elongated mortars.

Please report for Commodore Ingraham all the circumstances of the bursting of the 6.40 Brooke gun, giving the number of times fired, the charge. elevation, nature of fracture, &c.

It is important Battery Simkins should have a sufficient infantry guard, with two field pieces, every night, to prevent the enemy from spiking the guns and destroying the battery. One of my inspectors informs me that the guard consists of less than 40 men.

Would it not expedite matters, in case the troops have to evacuate Morris Island, to land a part of them at once at Sumter, and thence distribute them at leisure to their point of destination ?

Respectfully, your obedient servant,