wishes every preparation made to burn these bridges, but not to be set on fire until you are satisfied that they fave crossed ornot going to cross. You are aware that the destruction of these bridges ois of vital importance. LShould you have to retire, you will send all the wagons but two that were sent you from here back to Orangeburg. Should it become necessary for you to fall back, you will march to Columbia. You can take one section of Kanapaux's battery with you.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. W. RATCHFORD,

Assistant Asjutant-General

HEADQUARTERS LEE'S CORPS,
Branchville, S. C., February 6, 1865.

Brigadier-General PALMER,

Commanding Division:

GENERAL: I am directed to inform you that colonel Johnson, commanding brigade, has relieved General Deas at Biunaker's Bridge. You will therefore communicate with Colonel Johnson, and be responsible for any fords between you and him.

Vwry respectfully, your obedient servant.

J. W. RATCHFORD,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS LEE'S CORPS,
Branchville, S. C., February 6, 1865.

Colonel JOHNSON,

Commanding:

COLONEL: General Stevenson directs that you move at once to Binnaker's Bridge, taking the same road that Colonel Carter marched on, and relieve General Deas. You will keep in communication with commanders on your right and left. Spoecial instructions will be given by General Deas as to the defense of the position.

Respectfully, your most obedient servant.

J. W. RATCHFORD,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

AUGUSTA, February 6, 1865.

COMMANDING OFFICER, COLUMBIA, S. C.:

It is still uncertain whether enemy, after reaching Branchville, will move on Augusta, Columbia, or Charleston. He may move on two last at once, without our being able to check him long. Make, accordingly, all necessary preparations. Communicate this to Fovernor Magrath and General Winder.

G. T. BEAUREGARD,

AUGUSTA, GA., February 6, 1865.

Major-General WHEELER:

I informed you last night to follow instructions of General Hardee, looking, however, to support of Generals Hampton and Stevenson for defense of Columbia and crossings of Contgaree. Columbia is more important than Augusta.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.