P.G.T. Beauregard to J. R. Tucker, C. 8. Navy, July 18, 1863

Capt. J. R. Tucker, C. 8. Navy, Comdg. C. S. Naval Forces Afloat, Charleston, S. C.:

Captain : I believe it my duty to acquaint you with the fact that I consider it of the utmost importance to the defense of the works at the entrance of the harbor that some effort should be made to sink either the Ironsides or one of the monitors now attacking the works on Morris Island, not only because of the diminution thus effected in the enemy’s means of defense, but because of the great moral effect that would inevitably result from such an occurence. The stake is manifestly a great one, worthy of no small risk. For its accomplishment, one vessel, such as the Juno, provided with the spar torpedo, with 2 or 3 officers and a few men, it is believed would be as effective at night for the end in view as a flotilla of vessels, so arranged, of the same class.

If, however, the results of your experiments are sufficiently adverse to the prospect of success with the contrivance, I must beg to be advised of the fact, to the end that I may not permit the expectation of assistance to enter further into my plans of defense ; but if, on the other hand, the experiments remain satisfactory, permit me

to say the time is rapidly passing away when that assistance can be of any avail or value,

One monitor destroyed now will have greater moral and material effect, I believe, than two sunk at a later stage in our defense.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,