P.G.T. Beauregard to J. R. Tucker, July 12, 1863

Capt. J. R. TUCKER, Comdg. C. S. Naval Forces Afloat, Charleston, S. C.:

Captain: The presence of the enemy’s monitors within the bar eminently endangers our works on Morris Island, the holding of which is so vital to the defense ultimately of Fort Sumter. It has, therefore, become an urgent necessity to destroy, if possible, part or all of these iron-clads, and may not this be: done with means at our disposition?

The State gunboat and the torpedo ram, Iam assured, can be speedily made ready to move with efficiency by steam, though unmailed. These and such of the steamers of light draught, like the Juno, if provided with the spar torpedo contrivance, together with the flotilla of iron boats already prepared for the service, could make nightl attempts to destroy one or more of the monitors ; an event whic I need not say would be of incalculable importance to the defense intrusted to us.

To dislodge these monitors without endangering our own ironclads, which should, if possible, be held in reserve as a part of the defense of the inner harbor in an emergency, I repeat ought to be effected, if possible, without loss of one hour that may be avoided.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,