U. S. FRIGATE SABINE,
Off Pensacola, April 26, 1861.
ORDER:
Colonel Brown thinks it probable that an attempt may be made by General Bragg to land forces on Santa Rosa Island with a view of making approaches by land against Fort Pickens, in which case he asks the co-operation of the squadron to prevent it. You will therefore have as many men ready to land as can be spared with safety to your ship. The signal of danger will be two rockets thrown up from the fort, which are to be answered by the ships. On seeing this signal you will immediately have your boats manned and armed for service. A detachment of soldiers will leave the fort at the same time, and march along the beach on the sea side toward the ships, displaying two red lights. They will form near the beach, opposite the ships, to cover the landing of the seamen. Their position being known by the red lights, the boats will land as near them as possible, and the men formed to unite with the soldiers in executing whatever orders are given by the commanding officer.
H. A. ADAMS,
Captain, U. S. Navy, Senior Officer Present.