John J. Peck to U. S. FuaG-SHip Minnesota, October 18, 1863

GENERAL: Although your communications contemplated the transportation of some of the troops by the Spaulding, momentarily expected, I have deemed it best not to delay longer, and have ordered the Albany and J ee to take the Ninth New Jersey. As yet only the Nineteenth Wisconsin has arrived. The other regiments are looked for hourly.

I regret to learn the difficulty upon the canal, and the burning of one or more boats. In a communication of the i7th, I called attention to the propriety of occupying Elizabeth City, and I believe such a polivy would render the canal navigation much more secure.

ive Virginia regiments have arrived at Kinston. General Mar-

* The Ninth Maryland Infantry.

tin and his brigade have gone south to Wilmington or Charleston. A flag of truce has just been announced at the outpost and probably I shall have additional information before the boat leaves.

The Confederate Governors have been in conference together, and it is said that Governor Vance was entirely reconciled toward the Richmond junta. He is certainly exhibiting more activity than heretofore.

I trust your plan may be entirely successful, and that the troops may be benefited by the change.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,