Howell Cobb to Thomas Jordan, July 10, 1863

General THoMAS JORDAN, Chief of Staff, Charleston, S. C.:

GENERAL: I have just returned from a tour of inspection in West Florida and on the Apalachicola River. In West Florida everything is quiet and the condition of troops good. I regret to state that the health of the troops on the river is very bad, particularly so at the batteries at the obstructions in the Narrows; so much so that I fear it will be impracticable to keep up the force at that point during the summer and fall seasons. For this and other reasons, I have determined to occupy Fort Gadsden, a point below the obstructions, and about 25 miles above Apalachicola. I have accordingly stationed at that point four field pieces and a detachment of infantry and cavalry. It is my intention to occupy permanently that place. I have directed such fortifications to be erected by the troops as will enable us to hold the place against any probable raid of the enemy. ; ‘

For the present, I shall continue to occupy three points on the river, Fort Gadsden, the Narrows, and Hammock Landing, about

190 8. C. AND G. A. COASTS, AND IN MID. AND E. FLA. _[Cuap. X. L.

be easily carried in the event of an attack to the batteries. My judgment, after the most thorough examination I have been able to give the. subject is, that Apalachicola is the proper place to hold and occupy for the most satisfactory defense of the river. I can take the place any day with very little effort, and I can hold it if I could be furnished with the necessary guns. To do so, however, I must have an 8 or 10 inch columbiad, a rifled gun not less than 6.4-inch, and, if practicable, two or more 42-pounder, or even 32-pounder, smooth-bores.

With these additional guns, and the privilege of keeping the troops I now have and shall soon have, I feel confident that I could take and hold Apalachicola against any force likely to attack that place. I submit the question to the commanding general that he may cause me to be furnished with these guns, if, in his judgment, the policy I suggest should be adopted.

very respectfully, yours, &c.,