graph line between Sugar Loaf and myself is broken. At 10 o'clock this morning it is reported that enemy landed at Smithville in small boats and took possession. Small-arm firing heard in direction of Sugar Loaf. I have no communication from General Hoke. Last information received from General Simonton is that he was moving to this point on the Georgetown road. I have received to-day the Twenty-seventh South Carolina Regiment. I have visited Major-General Hoke to-day. I cannot assist him, nor can he assist me. I will await your orders or act in emergency.

LOUIS HEBERT,

Brigadier-General.

FORT ANDERSON, January 18, 1865 - 9.45 p. m.

Colonel ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

General Hoke says the firing this evening in his front was nothing but skirmishing. Nothing further from Battery Lamb.

LOUIS HEBERT,

Brigadier-General.

MASONSBOROUGH, January 18, 1865.

Colonel ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

One squadron being at Jacksonville and fifty men being with Major Reid, the duty being so constant that my horses are daily breaking down, can you not order the quartermaster at Wilmington to issue ten pounds of corn, at least, for this emergency?

T. J. LIPSCOMB,

Colonel, Commanding.

WILMINGTON, January 18, 1865.

Colonel LIPSCOMB,

Masonsborough:

Major Cameron has been instructed to issue ten pounds corn for ten days.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

WILMINGTON, January 18, 1865 - 10 a. m.

Colonel LIPSCOMB,

Masonsborough:

General Bragg directs you send immediately to Fort Anderson two companies of cavalry to report to General Hebert. Report when they start. The officer and twenty-three men ordered to Major Reid can compose part of this force if you wish. They are now subject to your orders.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.