HEADQUARTERS FORT JEFFERSON, TORTUGAS,
January 18, 1861.
SIR: I have the honor to report that I arrived at Fort Jefferson today with my command; garrisoned and assumed command of the post, in accordance with the instructions of the General-in-Chief, dated Washington, January 5, 1861. Strength: four commissioned officers and sixty-two enlisted men, Bvt. Maj. L. G. Arnold, commanding; Surg. A. N. McLaren, First Lieut. Henry Benson, A. A. Q. M and A. C. S.; First Lieut. M. M. Blunt. I would respectfully inquire if Fort Jefferson is a double-ration post? If not, I request that it be announced as such in orders from the War Department, from the 18th instant.
I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
L. G. ARNOLD,
Brevet Major, U.S. Army, Commanding.
Col. S. COOPER,
Adjt. Gen. U. S. Army, Washington City, D.C.