I should be quite willing to try speed with the Powhattan if I could hope to run the gauntlet of her guns without being crippled; but unfortunately, with all the buoys and other marks removed, there is a perfectly blind bar except by daylight.

In the meantime I am drilling my gun-crew to a proper use of the great guns and small arms.

With the exception of diarrhoea which is prevailing to some extent, brought on by too free a use of the river water in the excessive heats which prevail, the crew continue healthy.
* * * * * I have the honour to be, &c., &c., (Signed) R.SEMMES.
Hon.

G.E.Mallory, Secretary of the Navy, Richmond, Virginia.
The following orders were also issued:-- "_Orders to be Observed on Board the C.S.Steamer Sumter_." "1.

The deck will never be left without a lieutenant, except that in port a midshipman may be assigned to keep the first lieutenant's watch." "2.