HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF FLORIDA,
Fort Pickens, Fla., April 23, 1861.
Bvt. Maj. W. H. FRENCH,
Commanding Key West, Fla.:
SIR: I am directed by the colonel commanding to say that at his request Captain Adams, commanding the naval forces at this place, has ordered the steamship Crusader to be stationed off your fort in such a manner as to give you necessary aid and protection. Her captain is also required to render you assistance in any manner that you may require consistently with the safety of his vessel.
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
GEO. L. HARTSUFF,
Assistant Adjutant-General.