A. B. Ely to Enoch Q. Fellows, April 8, 1862

Col. ENocH Q. FELLOWS, Commanding U. S. Forces, Edisto Island, S. C.: CoLONEL: The general commanding desires that you would take every opportunity that offers, either by negroes who come from the rebels, by scouts, or other means, of acquiring and transmitting to him all information, with sketch, plans, and descriptions, when practicable, of the best routes of approaching Charleston or James Island, either by land or water. If the rebels come down in force to occupy or remain at Jehossee Island, and you feel sure that you have strength enough, with the aid from Otter Island, to make a dash at them and to rout them from there, you are authorized to do this; or, on learning from you that more force would be requisite, he would, if such force were available from this vicinity, either send or take it to you for this purpose.

It does not appear desirable to occupy the island farther inland, than Edisto, except such small portions of adjacent shores as may be necessary for the security of our pickets on that island, and the main body of your troops will habitually be kept in such position that they can easily be concentrated for resistance to an attack. An especial vigilance is urged upon you at this time, when other important efforts are being made here, as there may be attempts at diversion in your direction, and a full security for your forces would be preferable to attacks upon the enemy, if they even appear to be open to it, at this juncture.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,