SUMTER, September 8, 1863-7 a. m.

CAPTAIN: The monitor near Cumming's Point is evidently aground. Her deck is now 4 feet above water and will be some 2 feet higher at low water. Fire should be opened on her, as the thin part of her hull is probably exposed.

STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR.

Captain NANCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

[Indorsement.]

Attended to.

W. G. M.

This monitor is being fired at from Sullivan's Island and Fort Jonson.

NANCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SUMTER, September 8-9.45 a. m.

CAPTAIN: The monitor has been hit three times on water line. No change apparent in obstructions.

STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR.

Captain NANCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SUMTER, September 8-10.35 a. m.

CAPTAIN: The monitors have been hit repeatedly. Those next Moultrie have drawn her fire from the one aground, which is to be regretted. The Ironside is 1,460 yards from this fort.

STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR.

Captain NANCE.

SUMTER, September 8-11.15 a. m.

CAPTAIN: Ironside was heavily hit just now, throwing great deal sand off her deck. Enemy very busy at their old works on Morris Island. One Parrott gun from there opened on fort just now.

STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR.

Captain NANCE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SUMTER, September 8-noon.

CAPTAIN: Fragments of Ironside torn away by shot from Sullivan's Island just now.

STEPHEN ELLIOTT, JR.

Captain NANCE.