John J. Peck, August 20, 1863

GENERAL: Agreeably to your instructions of the 12th instant, I assumed command on the 14th instant of the Eighteenth Army Corps, serving in North Carolina. On the 15th instant, in company with General Palmer, I commenced an inspection of this important command, more especially with respect to the general system of defenses.

Pamlico District.—At Washington I examined the old and new lines, both of which are well arranged. The second or interior line has many advantages over the exterior, especially in its command and the requiring of a lesser force for its defense. Some guns should be added, and some slashing done for the better protection of the artillerists against riflemen.

In this connection I will observe, that on the 14th the cavalry outpee 1 corporal and 4 men, were surprised. The corporal, 2 men,

orses, and the equipments were captured. \

The cavalry company at Washington is small and inefficient. It seems proper to make a change. Really, another SoG ought to be sent there; a good field officer to take charge of both.

General Palmer, General Heckman, and others, urge Colonel Amory, or some new commander, for that place. But in view of your observations on this point, I shall defer any change until I see you. Colonel Amory has on relieved by General Heckman.

Albemarle District.—The line of works at Plymouth is what is demanded for that place. The area of open land isso small that the health and comfort of the troops will be much promoted by a general felling of timber in front of the intrenchments.

On learning that you had given directions for colored troops to occupy Elizabeth City, Jonesburg, Canal Bridge, and South Mills, I at once gave the proper orders for the transportation, and sent Lieutenant King, engineer officer to General Wessells, for the purpose of constructing any light works that might be deemed necessary. In case you place the counties north of the sound under command of General Naglee, as I suggested, the troops of General Wessells can be withdrawn.

My stay at Hatteras Inlet was short, but I was well repaid by the areal state of things under Captain Allen. The general health of the command is very gratifying.

Defenses of New Berne.—The system comprised under this head is extensive, very complete, and admirably arranged. Any serious operations against New Berne would involve the attempt to seize the works on south side of Trent River. The forests along the Trent must be cut away before the ranges and power of the works can be fully developed. When the timber is cleared there will be a heavy interchange of fire, between the works divided by the Trent.

very respectfully,