Official Records of the Union and Confederate Navies in the War of the Rebellion Volume 24 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1911 Excerpt: ...they must be the gunboat and Era No. 5. An officer from aloft reported three steamers in sight. A number of officers were confident they saw three. From the information received, and the steamer appearing very low in the water in the fog, I was fully convinced she was an ironclad, as were all my officers. I supposed the steamers to be from 2 to 2 miles from us; the captain of the Webb, an old pilot, thought about 1 miles. It was impossible to tell on account of the fog. One of the vessels fired at us three times. We endeavored to reply, but our friction primers failed. I turned around.and made all possible dispatch down the river, fearful that the fog would again rise and that the steamers Louis oVOr and Grand Duke would pass me and fall into the hands of the enemy, they following me up. I succeeded in turning them and other steamers back. I arrived at Fort Taylor Monday morning, the 18th instant; made a report to General Taylor, and asked him what disposition he wished made of the Webb, stating that I had done all I could under orders from you. I informed him that I should remain at Gordon's Landing, to assist the fort in case of an attack, until I learned his wishes. Immediately on receiving my communication General Taylor sent me orders to assume command of the forces at Fort Taylor, which I did. On his arrival I turned the Webb over to him. Shortly afterwards he relieved me by one of his staff officers, saying he did not feel authorized to detain me any longer than possible. I left as soon as possible for this place. Lieutenant J. H. Morrison rendered me great assistance. His ability and efficiency throughout contributed largely to further all my efforts, and I am greatly indebted to him for the willingness and promptitude with which he perf...