Page:A Compilation of the Messages and Papers of the Confederacy, Including the Diplomatic Correspondence, 1861-1865, Volume I.djvu/228

198 Lieutenant Commanding Parker, and the Teaser, Lieutenant Commanding Webb, each of one gun, composed our squadron. With this force of twenty-one guns, Flag Officer Buchanan engaged the enemy's fleet, consisting of the frigate Cumberland of twenty-four guns, the Congress of fifty guns, the St. Lawrence of fifty guns, and the steam frigates Minnesota and Roanoke each of forty guns, the enemy's batteries at Newport News, and several small steamers armed with heavy rifled guns.

The engagement commenced at 3:30 p.m., and at 6 o'clock p.m. he had sunk the Cumberland, captured and burnt the Congress, disabled and driven the Minnesota ashore, and defeated the St. Lawrence and the Roanoke, which sought shelter under the guns of Fortress Monroe. Two of the enemy's small steamers were blown up, and two transport schooners were captured. The Cumberland went down with all on board, her tops only remaining above water; but many of her people were saved by boats from the shore. The loss of the enemy has not been ascertained. Our loss is very small but has not been officially communicated.

The flag of the Congress and the sword of the officer commanding at the time of her surrender are at this Department, together with the flag and sword of the gunboat Fanny, captured by Flag Officer Lynch, in October last; and I submit for your consideration the propriety of providing for the safe-keeping of these and similar trophies.

To the dashing courage, the patriotism and eminent ability of Flag Officer Buchanan and the officers and men of his squadron our country is indebted for this brilliant achievement, which will hold a conspicuous place among the heroic contests of naval history.

With much respect, your obedient servant, Secretary of the Navy.

 March 12, 1862. To the Senate and House of Representatives.

I transmit herewith to the Congress the official report of Col. William B. Taliaferro, of the action at Carrick's Ford, July 13, 1861.

 March 13, 1862. To the Senate and House of Representatives.

I herewith transmit to the Congress the report of the Acting Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

