Unknown to Leroy P. Walker, April 14, 1861

I have possession of Sumter. Anderson and garrison on Isabel going in morning. None killed; two wounded. Quarters in ruins. Interior of fort damaged. Armament still effective against entrance to channel.

Morris ISLAND, 8, C., April 14, 1861, General BEAUREGARD:

My DEAR GENERAL: I beg an immediate answer, by the bearer, to this. Captain Lee, Corps of Engineers, has preferred to me a claim to “the honor of being sent to Sumter this morning.” The very faithful, skillful, and laborious duties performed here for three months continuously by Captain Lee entitle him to this distinction, if he so considers it. As the Chief Engineer of the Confederate Army, and charged Cuar. 1.) _ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.—CONFEDERATE.

‘ with the supervision of the works on Morris Island, I have no hesitation in saying that I consider Captain Lee entitled to the credit of the engineering work done here, with his assistants. To it he has devoted

_. his time and personal interests. Captain Lee naturally feels aggrieved

at having been superseded on the eve of action, on the occasion of my being relieved from engineering duty (although, undoubtedly, that was

due to the supposed state of bis health). Captain Lee does not desire to make the report called for in your order, but claims to be sent to

Sumter. I indorse this claim, and most respectfully and earnestly

request that you will return an order sending Captain Lee, for the

present, to Sumter, on duty with the garrison. It is certainly due to his untiring devotion, he not being ahsent from his post for three months, and it is the reward which he has asked for. -W: H. ©. WHITING, Adjutant and Inspector General.

P. S.—I understand perfectly that you want a specialist. The major has no feeling about the matter, and will make his report. Please to grant this.