Unknown to W. F. Nance, July 11, 1863

Asst, Adjt. Gen., First Mil. Dist., Charleston, S. C.:

It would [be well] to order the troops and batteries in the vicinity of Fort Johnson, or such troops as may be disposable, to take position near the extreme left of eastern line at or near Mellichamyp’s, to repulse the boat expedition through Light-House Inlet, allowing the boats to get as near as possible before opening on them. Our troops must be provided with good guides, and ought to be in position before high tide. It is probable a south attack is intended at the same time, the second one being near the extreme right of the eastern lines.

Communicate these ideas by telegraph to Colonel Simonton, and let him issue orders accordingly at once, unless he has good reasons for believing otherwise. Col. A. J. Gonzales will hand you this letter, and may be able to give you some additional information.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,