John F. O'brien to John G. Foster, July 21, 1863

GENERAL: In reply to your letter of the 10th instant, the commanding general directs me to say that the project of occupying and fortifying Fort Gadsden is approved, for the reasons set forth by

ou; but he cautions Seaton yl that the importance of holding the arrows must not be lost sight of in the disposition of troops for sanitary purposes. It is probable the free use of quinine as a part e ges aily ration would keep the garrison in comparatively good ealth.

With regard to fortifying Apalachicola, the importance of the measure is admitted, but, unfortunately, there are no heavy guns which can at present be spared for that object, and it is impossible to tell now how long the general commanding will be permitted, by current events elsewhere to keep even the whole of his present force. Your plans, therefore, against this, although meeting his full sanction, will, for the time being, have to be abandoned.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,