and all trestle-work from Pedee up. Organize small parties of determined men to do this instantly. Best way to destroy trestle is to cut away both ends with axes; rest falls. Report your arrangements for this work.

ARCHER ANDERSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

CHARLOTTE, N. C., February 28, 1865-1 p. m.

Lieutenant-General HAMPTON,

Fort Mills, S. C.:

Wheeler's division of cavalry and wagons, if sent to Nation Ford, could cross on cars. Let me know when these may be required.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

CHARLOTTE, N. C., February 28, 1865-10. 30 p. m.

Lieutenant General WADE HAMPTON,

Fort Mills, S. C.:

Butler writes from Kellytown on the 27th that Fifteenth Corps was encamped at Porter's Bridge, on Little Lynch's Creek, since 24th. Other corps thence toward Camden, intending doubltess to march on Cheraw or Florence. Prisoners say they have only five days' rations and they are moving toward Wilmington or Georgetown. Your letter to Sherman is approved. *

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,

February 28, 1865.

General WHEELER:

GENERAL: I avail myself of the earliest opportunity to offer you, in behalf of the State, my thanks for the defense of the town of Aiken, and the protection given in that defense to the population of that town. To be saved, as was that town and its population, from the ruthless foes by which it was attacked calls not only for the thanks of those immediately exposed, but to the grateful remembrance of all calsses of our citizens. To you, and through you to that portion of your command which participated in the conflict for the possession of Aiken, I tender you the thanks of the State.

I am, general, respectfully, &c.,

A. G. MAGRATH.

POST-OFFICE DEPARTMENT, C. S. A.,

Richmond, March 1, 1865.

Honorable J. C. BREACKINRIDGE,

Secretary of War;

From information received this morning I fear the answer I sent you as to sending letters through without material delay to the southwest may require correction. I am now informed that the gauge of the rail-

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*See p. 596.

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