OPERATIONS IN TEX., N.MEX.,AND ARIZ. [CHAP.XI.

GALVESTON, TEX., November 22,1861.

General P.O. HEBERT, C.S.A.:

In obedience to your verbal order of this day, directing me to state in writing the practicability of gunboats of the class represented to be in the enemy's fleet being able to reach a position in Galveston Bay to command the bridge from Galveston Island to the mainland, I would respectfully state that a vessel drawing eight feet of water cannot get within 3 miles of the bridge, and one drawing seven feet of water cannot get within 2 1/2 miles of the bridge, by the way of either the Pelican or Galveston channel. Six feet of water in high tide can be taken to the bridge. The enemy's gunboats are reported to draw from eight to nine feet of water. He is however represented to have lighter-draught steamers, on which guns may be mounted. Any vessel capable of crossing Galveston Bar can pass at very long gun-shot range, by both Fort Point and Pelican Spit, to about 4 miles above Pelican Spit. The enemy's gunboats may therefore pass both Fort Point and Pelican Spit with the battery at present mounted thereon. Although all the marks indicating the channel-way into Galveston Bay have been removed, the channel is well known to many persons who have been trading to this place, and doubtless the enemy may have the services of some of these.

I am, very respectfully,

WM. W. HUNTER, Commander, C.S.Navy.

ORDNANCE OFFICER, DISTRICT OF GALVESTON, November 22,1861.

[Major S.B.DAVIS:]

MAJOR: I have the honor to report that, in accordance to instructions received from department headquarters, dated November 20,1861,I have visited the battery referred to, at Virginia Point, and find that it consists of a substantial earth wall, of some 12 feet at the crown and 20 feet at the base, extending about 70 yards on both sides of the railroad, and commanding the bridge at all approachable points by water. The armament consist of three 24-pounder guns and one 8-inch howitzer, all mounted on siege carriages, the platforms giving an angle of fire of 90 degrees. Two of the 24-pounders are now in position, and the remaining 24-pounders and the howitzer will be in position to day. The amount of ammunition on hand at the time is as follows: One hundred and seventy-three rounds of powder, 113 rounds of shot, and 18 shells, fixed. The powder magazine is situated 40 yards behind the parapet, 15 feet square by 7 high. It is well built, with a bomb-proof roof, and is not exposed to a fire of round shot, as it has the same height as the parapet.

In conclusion, I would state that I have consulted with Captain J. Kellersburg, and we are of the opinion that the battery will be ready by Monday to do good and effective service; but at the same time would suggest that at least two guns of a longer range than those there at present be placed at this point as on as practicable.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W.SPALDING GOOD, First Lieutenant, Acting Ordnance Officer.