War letters of William Thompson Lusk, captain, assistant adjutant-general, United States Volunteers 1861-1863, afterward M.D., LL. D

11–16 February 1862

Battle of Fort Donelson

WAR LETTERS 125

glorious news from the North concerning the capture of Fort Donelson, and are now impatiently awaiting the arrival of a steamer with particulars. We can hardly credit a report now current, regarding a convention to be called by the Governor of Tennessee to repeal the Secession Ordinance in that State. Our latest dates are Feb. 1 6th, and here it is the 2d of March.

INDEX

Gen'l Thos. W. Sherman com- manding the expedition, 91, 92; Fort Monroe: hardships of out- post life, irritating acts of in- solence by his superior officer, appointed Aide-de-camp to Gen'l Stevens, 93, 94; Hilton Head, S. C: storm at sea, naval engage- ment at Port Royal, describes the neighborhood of Hilton Head, 95-98; a season of pillage, pic- tures the environment, 99-102; acknowledging box from friends, 102-105; Port Royal District: the occupation of Beaufort, camp duties, the military situation, 106, 107; Beaufort: raids on the rebel pickets, characterization of William Elliott, no, in; ill with fever, in, 112; rapid recovery, the " New Year's call" (action at Port Royal Ferry), negro stories of feeling of depression among South Carolina troops, treatment of prisoners, 112-115; receipt of sword from W. W. Phelps, his efforts to secure William Elliott's promotion, 116, 117; scouting on Hospa Creek, Thomas W. Sher- man's expedition against Fort Pulaski, newspaper glory, 118- 120; arrival of the Connecticut battery, time of his appointment as Captain, 120, 121; character- ization of General Stevens, 122, 123; reasons for not encouraging his mother to visit Beaufort, news of the capture of Fort Donelson, a picket episode, 124-126; the " excellent females " brought hither for the regeneration of the negro race, 127-129; his com- mendation of McClellan in the face of savage attack, 129-132; Gen'l Thos. W. Sherman super-