COLUMBIA, June 3, 1862.

President JEFFERSON DAVIS,

Richmond, Va.:

Resolved, That in view of the threatening aspect of things and the great probability of an early attack on Charleston, it is the opinion of the Governor and council of South Carolina manifest that nothing but extreme necessity will justify a further withdrawal of any more troops from this State.

I transmit the above and agree with its spirit.*

F. W. PICKENS.

[14.]

COLUMBIA, June 3, 1862.

President JEFFERSON DAVIS,

Richmond, Va.:

We sent two of best South Carolina regiments to Beauregard. Three with Gregg carry superb rifles, 1,400 strong, and two with Ripley very fine. Season is far advanced and unless we are whipped in Virginia they cannot attack Charleston, and if they do only by water it can be defended if commanding officer does his duty and the forts are fought as they ought to be, which I doubt. If you are in difficulty, of course we must spare, and I think you can order Dunovant's regiment of regulars, equal to any in service. Order that and colonel De Saussure, now under Drayton. They are best place. Let me know if your order them, and when, if Richmond is safe.*

F. W. PICKENS.

[14.]

COLUMBIA, S. C., June 4, 1862.

President JEFFERSON DAVIS,

Richmond, Va.:

Telegram received.+ The enemy will not regard our climate. They lended in force yesterday, and to-day John's and James Islands attack commenced. Last evening we drove them and took prisoners. Gunboats in Stono to be expected, after the bad judgment in dismantling Cole's Island. General attack expected to-morrow. I doubt it. I name two best trained regiments cautiously to you. None can be spared just now or the Savannah railroad will be lost. Deeply regret. I trust valor will make all safe.

F. W. PICKENS.

[14.]

MAYOR'S OFFICE,

City of Savannah, June 9, 1862.

President JEFFERSON DAVIS,

Richmond, Va.:

General Pemberton has withdrawan nearly all the troops from the defenses of the city, leaving us in a helpless condition. Is this your order or consent? We cannot believe that it is your intention to leave us at the mercy of the enemy. If such is your intention, we solemnly protest against it in behalf of the citizens of Savannah and the State of Georgia. An early reply is desired.

GEO. N. WYLLY,

Mayor Pro Tempore.

[14.]

---------------

*For reply, see VOL. XIV, p. 540.

+Ibid., p. 540.

---------------