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196 sailing of the expedition, and a letter dated the 5th of July, and published in the New York Times, giving an account of the enemy's operations to that date. From these it will, I think, be seen that the expedition was one of considerable magnitude, from which much was expected. Officers captured concur in representing it as well and carefully considered and planned, and was confidently expected to result in the capture of Charleston. That it failed is due, under Providence, to the gallantry and good conduct of our officers and men.

Generals Taliaferro and Robertson, whose districts were attacked, were untiring in their watchfulness and efforts to defeat the plans of the enemy, and they were admirably seconded by their officers and men. Colonel George P. Harrison is deserving of especial commendation, first for driving back the enemy's line on James' island, and secondly for his gallantry and good conduct in the engagement on the morning of the 9th. General Ripley's lines on Sullivan's island were not attacked, but they were constantly exposed to attack, and the reduction I was obliged to make of his force to strengthen General Taliaferro imposed greatly increased vigilance and labor on him and his officers and men, which was met by them with alacrity. My staff officers performed their various responsible duties with zeal and intelligence. I am much indebted to Flag Officer J. R. Tucker, of the navy, for his ready and efficient co-operation. Besides his vigilance in watching the approaches to the harbor, he placed at my disposal a naval battalion armed as infantry (Lieutenant Dozier, Confederate States Navy, commanding), which served well and faithfully in the works on James' island, and he also reinforced Fort Johnston with a small detachment. Very respectfully,

Your obedient servant,

Major-General Commanding.

To General A. & I. General C. S. A., Richmond, Va.

July 23d, 1864.

Major A. A. G.:

Major—I have the honor to report the operations of the troops under my command for the eight days commencing on the