Iq Foster to Joseph G. Totten, March 28, 1861

General Jos. G. TOTTEN, – —- Chief Engineer U. ‘S. Arm Ys ‘Washington, DOG

GENERAL: I have the honor to report that there is a general suspen- ‘sion of operations in the batteries around us. The guns and materials on the beach on Cummings Point remain in precisely the same position they have occupied for three days. No repairs of parapets even are in progress, and it is reported that the sling-cart was removed to the ‘city yesterday. At the mortar battery on James Island, where a few hands have been constantly at work for some time, there is now no appearance of labor.

I have received your letter of the 26th, and will follow its instructions.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,