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 via Fortress Monroe, Va.

I have the honor to report that I have to-day received from Maj.-Gen. Sam Jones, commanding the Rebel forces in the department a letter stating that five general officers and forty-five field officers of the United States Army — prisoners of war — had been placed in Charleston City, to be retained there under fire. Against this wicked act I have protested. In meantime the fire on the city is continued. I respectfully ask that an equal number of Rebel officers of equal rank may be sent to me in order that I may place them under the enemy's fire as long as our officers are exposed in Charleston. I send Maj. E. W. Strong, in steamer "Mary A. Boardman," to Fortress Monroe to await your answer and, if my request is granted, to bring the prisoners. Copies of my correspondence will be mailed to you as soon as Major Strong arrives at Fortress Monroe. Major-General. Major, and aide-de-camp.