K.-S. Ripley to Thomas Jordan, June 28, 1863

Brig. Gen. THomas JORDAN, Chief of Staff, &e. :

GENERAL: I have the honor to report that the number of the enemy’s land forces in the district under my command, from the best and most available means in my power for ascertaining it, appears to be about 3,000 on Big Folly and 600 on Cole’s Island. The reconnaissances from which this is derived have been made by scouts from Colonel Simonton’s command, who have observed the enemy from a

oint on Long Island, within 1 mile of Big Folly, from Legare’s anding, and from Battery Island.

The force on Cole’s Island have a picket guard of about 20 strong on Dixon’s Arm, and yesterday sent a scouting party on Dixon’s Island.

172 8. C. AND G. A. COASTS, AND IN MID. AND E. FLA. _ [Cuar. X. L.

The observations from Morris Island show a small force of the enemy behind Little Folly.

Captain Haskell returned a short time since from a thorough reconnaissance of the coast to the north as far as Cape Romain. No enemy was observed, and the blockade was quite loose in that direction. The estimate given from Colonel Simonton’s command is corroborated by the statements made in the diary of an Abolition officer, which came into our possession, the material extracts from which to the 10th of June, I had the honor to transmit to headquarters some days since. This diary mentioned six regiments, besides batteries and detached companies, which would make about the force estimated. Nothing to indicate a diminution of the force has occurred since the 10th. From a personal observation made yesterday, knowing the advantages and means for reconnaissance possessed by Colonel Simonton, I have no doubt his estimate is nearly correct.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,