R. M. Cary to Colonel, August 23, 1861

August 23, 1861. COLONEL: I have the honor to report that this afternoon at about 4.30 o’clock the enemy’s steamer Yankee and a tug were seen standing

in the mouth of Potomac Creek. I ordered down to the point the . siege rifled gun (Betty Holmes) and a section (rifle) of Walker’s battery. The enemy fired the first shot, not aimed at this point, however. Smith’s battery replied. As soon as our field pieces opened the U. S. steamer Release (1ce-bóat) stood in and engaged us. ?

E cs E : . Om. XIV.) SKIRMISH NEAR PIGGOT’S MILL, W. VA. 115 close proximity to our pieces. It is believed that both the Yankee and the Release were hit; the former more than once. No one was hurt on our side. The action lasted about forty minutes, during which we fired some – twenty-five shot and shell; the enemy as many more. Capt. R. L. _ Walker was present, in immediate command of all the pieces. lam, colonel,

very respectfully, your obedient servant,