W. G. M. Davis to I. S. Cross, April 12, 1862

CAPTAIN:

I have the honor to report, for the information of the col3nel commanding the department, that Capt. William M. Footman, of Company F, First Florida Cavalry, in charge of a detachment of 40 men (same corps), sent by me to watch the movements of the enemy near

ernandina and torepelany effort made to leave the island of Amelia for the main-land in such small parties as he might be able to cope with, in the execution of such orders encountered two men on the railroad, who had landed from a hand car, and made them prisoners without resistance.

In a short time afterwards he found a party of 5 men at the house of Judge O’Neal. Oneofthe party, offering resistance, was killed, and the rest then made prisoners. The whole of the prisoners were sent here by Captain Footman, and I have sent them by the train to-day, under a guard of 5 men, to be delivered to you at Tallahassee.

I desire particularly to commend the conduct of Captain Footman, who has on this oecasion, as he has at all times, proved himself a zealous, intelligent, and efficient officer.

I am about to increase Captain Footman’s force to 100 men. He will be assisted by parties of citizens should he at any time need them, and I look for good news from him before long. He will alarm the enemy and keep them confined to the island.

very respectfully, your obedient servant,