John J. Peck to Joseph Hooker, August 25, 1863

GENERAL: Since my last communication upon the defenses of this place I have had an interview with Commodore Davenport, senior naval officer on this station. From him I learn that the naval force on the sounds is to be reduced materially by Admiral Lee, and that in all probability not more than one or two gunboats will be retained here. This change of policy results from the belief that the works which have been constructed are sufficient.

In view of this proposed change I must again refer to the defenses of New Berne. The system oF works is very complete upon the present status of naval co-operation. Without this, Fort Spinola would be untenable with a rebel battery on the opposite bank near Duck Creek. In possession of that point and the south side of the Trent, the enemy would make this position very uncomfortable. By completing the water front of Spinola, or constructing an inclosed work on the point math mentioned, the system would be complete. In this connection, I will state that it is reported that an old road runs down to the river near Duck Creek.

Batchelder’s Creek.—On visiting the command at the outpost under Colonel Claassen, I found everything in most excellent order, and the health of the troops far better than in other localities. There is a large amount of sickness in the Ninth New Jersey, and in some of the Massachusetts regiments, which is attributed to the raid or raids made by them. After consultation, I have decided to send the New Jersey regiment down to the sea-shore for a few weeks.

District of the Albemarle.—On the 14th instant, Colonel Cullen, Ninety-sixth New York, and Captain French, of steamer Whitehead, captured 5 men and a lieutenant, of the Sixty-sixth North Carolina, in Camden County. On the 16th, they secured 38 muskets, 26 cartridge boxes and waist belts, &c. These officers report that large supplies are brought out from Norfolk, and that many women are engaged in this business.

Pamlico District.—I have ordered the North Carolina company of cavalry to Little Washington, in view of the condition of the detachment at that important place. The medical officers report a strong scorbutic tendency among the tr: ops, and also among the contrabands, as the direct result of the scarcity of fresh vegetables, and recommend the removal of the restrictions upon traffic with the inhabitants, to a certain extent. Your instructions on this point are so full and positive that I do not feel at liberty to relax them without communicating on the subject. Fresh vegetables have been ordered from New York.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,