Horatio G. Wright to Thomas J. Whipple, March 7, 1862

Fernandina, Fla. March 7, 1862.

Col. THOMAS J. WHIPPLE, Cammanding Fourth New Hampshire Regiment:

COLONEL: After having embarked the eight companies of your regiment on board the steamer Boston, in pursuance of the verbal instructions given you this evening, you will proceed with the gunboat expedition to the Saint John’s River, under the command of Commander J. R. Goldsborough, and co-operate with that officer in the objects of the expedition.

It is understood between the flag-officer commanding the naval forces . and myself that neither Jacksonville nor any point upon the river below is to be permanently occupied by our forces; but it may be desirable to land at one or more of these points, for the purpose of reconnaissance or other desirable services, and occupy them for a few hours only, returning, of course, with the gunboats to this place when this shall have been accomplished. i

You will place yourself in official relation with Captain Goldsborough, vommanding the naval force, who is now off the Saint John’s entrance, on your arrival there, anc. arrange with him in regard to the operations in which the services of your command may be required. Wishing you every success, I am,

very respectfully, your obedient