John G. Foster to Quincy A. Gillmore, July 29, 1863
Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Commanding Department of the South :
GENERAL: Inclosed I send orders just received from General Halleck.
In obedience thereof, I have toinform you that I am now starting Wild’s colored brigade, 2,000 strong, to your assistance. I send these troops because I have no others within forty-eight hours—my only brigade in any way available, Heckman’s, 1s up the Chowan, supporting a cavalry raid on Weldon—and because I believe they will do eal and fight well under their fighting general.
Seven regiments were ordered to start, and I presume have started, from Fort Monroe. I go at once to that place, and will use every means in my power to aid you, and as strongly as possible. My most sincere wishes and hopes are with you, and I will do everything in my power to aid you with every man I can. Charleston is too important to be lost when so nearly won.
Command me at New Berne and at Fort Monroe, and accept my truest wishes for your success.
with great respect, your obedient servant,
Major-General, Commanding.
{Inclosure.]
Washington, July 28, 1863—1.30 p. m.
ordered to Boston for transportation to North Carolina. More will
be sent as soon as we can get them. General Gillmore requires reenforcements. They can be obtained only from your department.
Please send him all you can possibly spare, and report how many.