On the cessation of the present
raging norther, which almost stifles the troops with sand,
sweeping away hills and creating new, I hope to establish a
second depot north of the city, which will partially relieve the
left wing of the army.

In extending the line of investment around the city, the troops
for three days have performed the heaviest labors in getting over
the hills and cutting through the intervening forests, all under
the distant fire of the city and castle, and in the midst of many
sharp skirmishes with the enemy. In these operations we have lost
in killed and wounded several valuable officers and men. Among
the killed I have to report Brevet Captain Alburtis, of the
United States 2d Infantry, much distinguished in the Florida war,
and a most excellent officer. He fell on the 11th inst., and
Lieutenant-Colonel Dickenson, of the South Carolina Regiment, was
badly wounded in a skirmish the day before. Two privates have
been killed in these operations, and four or five wounded. As yet
I have not been able to obtain their names.

As soon as the subsistence of the troops can be assured, and
their positions are well established, I shall, by an organized
movement, cause each brigade of regulars and volunteers to send
detachments, with supports, to clear its front, including
sub-bourgs, of the enemy's parties, so as to oblige them to
confine themselves within the walls of the city.

I have heretofore reported that but two-sevenths of the
siege-train and ammunition had reached me. The remainder is yet
unheard of. We shall commence landing the heavy metal as soon as
the storm subsides, and hope that the five-sevenths may be up in
time.

The city being invested, would, no doubt, early surrender, but
for fear that, if occupied by us, it would immediately be fired
upon by the castle. I am not altogether without hope of finding
the means of coming to some compromise with the city on this
subject.

So far, the principal skirmishing has fallen to the lot of
Brigadier-General Pillow's and Quitman's brigades. Both old and
new volunteer regiments have conducted themselves admirably.
Indeed, the whole army is full of zeal and confidence, and cannot
fail to acquire distinction in the impending operations.

To Commodore Conner,