Jno. Blair Hoge to Thomaas L. Bayne, February 26, 1864

Maj. THomaAs L. BAYNE, Ordnance Bureau, Richmond, Va.:

MaJsor: Nothing has occurred since my last telegram to affect or remove the entire interruption of all operations connected with my special service in Florida, which was caused by the unexpected advance of the enemy from Jacksonville. Since their very decided repulse at Olustee they have fallen back beyond Baldwin, and it is conjectured that they are awaiting re-enforcements, as it is reported— how authentically I am not aware—that all their transports have sailed for Hilton Head. As you will readily conjecture, the fact that East Florida has suddenly become the theater of active military operations most materially affects the views I presented in my last communication in regard to the several plans of operation I expected to be developed in that portion of the State. I can therefore only repeat more in detail the information I telegraphed. The Saint Mary’s was sunk and her cargo, I presume, was destroyed. Of this fact and of the reported loss of cotton at Camp Finegan and Baldwin, I have, however, no certain information. Lieutenant Buckman has been engrossed by his ordnance duties, and I apprehend has been unable to advise me on these points, even if it were possible for him to obtain accurate information. The military movements now in progress indicate a purpose to contest most energetically the effort of the enemy to establish themselves permanently in Florida. How soon or how effectual these movements may be, it is not for me to conjecture. I can but repeat the fact that at present I am entirely unable to do anything, and must await the results of the campaign to ascertain what changes in the condition of things may occur.

Captain Hobart has reported and has been advised of the remittances of funds, but I have deemed it entirely inexpedient to make any purchases of cotton, as there exists no reasonable prospect of its exportation now, no vessels being looked for at any point on the coast pending the military operations now in progress. This complete suspension of the efforts which I hoped to make for the accomplishment of results here is exceedingly unpleasant, and the irksome inaction which it has occasioned presses heavily upon me. I consider it my duty to await the developments of the coming month before expressing decided opinions as to the prospects of substantial success, and will therefore remain at or within reach of this place, unless otherwise instructed by you. Beyond the receipt of the acknowledgment of the approval o. Captain Hobart’s bond, I am entirely without any communication or advices from the Department since I left Richmond.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,