We will have a desperate fight at Stono when they get more troops. In about three weeks we will require 20,000 men to meet them, besides our garrison forces. If I had arms I would ask no favors. Can you not send me some? I can get plenty of men, but no arms. I have sent 12,000 arms to Virginia, and now feel the deradful effects. Savannah is in immediate danger. Let me hear.

F. W. PICKENS.

[6.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Coosawhatchie, November 11, 1861.

Honorable SECRETARY OF WAR,

Richmond, Va.:

SIR: I have sent to Captain Henry J. Hartstene, C. S. Navy, down to Port Royal Harbor to examine the position, strength, and condition of the enemy, and to ascertain, if possible, his intentions. I design to place him under Captain Ingraham to close the inland passes to Charleston and to prepare the water defenses and batteries. I request you will apply to the honorable Secretary of the Navy to have him ordered to report to me for duty. I have found him very zealous and efficient, and he has already made a visit to the enemy's position.

I have the honor, &c.,

R. E. LEE,

General, Commanding.

[6.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Coosawhatchie, November 11, 1861.

General THOMAS F. DRAYTON,

Commanding, &c.:

GENERAL: I send Captain William S. Walker, C. S. Army, and Lieutenant Minor, of the Navy, to Hardeeville, with the view of proceeding to Bluffton to examine the position of the enemy, &c. Please afford them all the facilities in your power. It will be necessary for you to push the cavalry as close to the enemy as may be prudent, tow atch his movements and circumscribe his operations, and to give all the protection to the country and confidence to the poeople in your power. A strong guard must be kept at New River bridge.

Very respectfully,

R. E. LEE,

General, Commanding.

[6.]

HEADQUARTERS,
Coosawhatchie, S. C., November 11, 1861.

General A. R. LAWTON,

Commanding in Georgia:

I have received your letter of the 10th,* and will endeavor to see you as soon as possible. In the meantime I send Commander Buchanan and Captain Sinclair, of the Navy, to consult as to the defenses of the water approaches, the latter to remain on that duty. The entrance to Cumberland and Brunswick must be secured and all the armed troops in the State brought into the field. Ample provision of subsistence and ammunition of all kinds must be prepared, and if you could select

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*See VOL. VI, p. 313.

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