OPERATIONS IN N. C. AND S. E. VA. [CHAP.XIII.
lons having been erected to cover the cannoneers. The gorge of the work looks towards Fort Hatteras. The fort is of but little importance, as the enemy cannot approach it from the sound. No danger is apprehended from the ocean, and if the enemy approach by land, a battery of field pieces would offer more resistance. The magazine and bomb-proof shelter, though not as large, is constructed similarly to the one in Fort Hatteras.
On the morning of the 5th instant I made a reconnaissance for about 3 1/2 miles from Fort Clark of the island. The narrowest part of the island is between the two forts. It continues to widen for some 3 miles. At about half a mile from Fort Clark a growth of small live-oak commences, accompanied by marshes and a rank undergrowth. On questioning the inhabitants, I was informed that water might be found almost anywhere by digging wells between high and low water marks. I visited several of the wells, some dug by the enemy, and all were filled with water, and from those that are in use I tasted quite good water. There is no doubt but that there is an abundance of water. At present Fort Hatteras is supplied by water from wells about 3 miles from it; but were wells properly dug in the fort, I have no doubt that plenty of water will be found.
With reference to the subsistence the country affords, I would report that there are many beeves, hogs, and sheep on the island. All the inhabitants that I conversed with unite in complaining of the vandalism of our troops, some houses being completely rifled. Such conduct on the part of our soldiers is but little calculated to conciliate those who may be most useful to us.
In conclusion, I would suggest that some guns of heavy caliber and long range be placed on the fronts of Fort Hatteras, looking towards the inlet and sound. The fort is well situated, and I am not able to suggest any improvements in its construction. All the damages occasioned by the late bombardment are fast being repaired by our troops. The following is the list of the ordnance stores and their condition: 159 32-pounder cartridges, charge eight pounds powder; 75 8-inch navy-gun cartridges, eight pounds powder; 15 32-pounder loaded shells; 29 32-pounder cartridge bags; 40 kegs F powder; 400 pounds cannon powder; 801 32-pounder balls; 148 8-inch navy shells, not loaded and without fuses; 10 32-pounder canister; 8 32-pounder grape.
Believing that I have now reported on every point desired by you in your instructions, I have the honor to be, general, your obedient servant,
FRANCIS U. FARQUHAR, Second Lieutenant, U. S. Corps Engineers.
Major General J. E. WOOL, Commanding Dep't S. E. Virginia.
Numbers 7. Report of Flag-Officer S. Barron, C. S. Navy.
U. S. FLAG-SHIP MINNESOTA, At Sea, August 31, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to report the surrender of Fort Hatteras, with its garrison, on the 29th instant, to the combined naval and military forces under the command of Flag-Officer Stringham and Major-General Butler, of the United States service.
