Headquarters Department of Fredericksburg,
Fredericksburg, Va., June 1, 1861.
Sir: The enemy attacked the naval battery at Aquia Creek yesterday about 10 a.m. The enemy had three war steamers and some small transports, not containing, however, many troops. They had some long boats or launches; but, so far as observed, made no preparation for landing. The fire on both sides was skillfully directed, and continued up to about 1 p.m., when the steamers hauled off, and, it is supposed, in a partially disabled condition. I took all the available forces, comprising the four companies of infantry and one of cavalry, from this vicinity, and Colonel Bate’s Tennessee (Walker) Legion with me, reaching the Potomac soon after the firing ceased. The conduct of the troops in the batteries—that of Captain Walker, with his 6-pounder rifle-guns, having been brought early into the action—is represented as having been admirable, including the covering and protecting force on the field. I have transferred the Tennessee (Walker) Legion to Brooke’s Station, where I have re-established Camp Jackson. From that point lateral movements may be easily made to cross the coasts, and forward movements to cover the batteries, with great facility.
The ladies are now making tents, cartridges, and belts, and I hope soon to have our forces sheltered and better equipped. I left A quia Creek late last evening, and return there this morning.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant
DANIEL RUGGLES,
Colonel, Provisional Army, Commanding Forces.
Col. R. S. Garnett, Adjutant-General Virginia Forces.