J. C. Pemberton, }, March 21, 1862

Hardeeville, S. 0., March 21, 1862.

Commanding Sixth Military District of South Carolina:

GENERAL: I consider that there is a sufficient number of troops now

in hand and near Bluffton to capture or drive the enemy from his position at Hunting Island. This you will endeavor to do, if not already done, on the receipt of this communication. In consequence of the representations of a courier (dispatched to me by telegraph) and subsequent statements by Major Willcoxon, Georgia volunteers, I have been induced to order forward many more troops than enough to accomplish this object, and I desire you to carry out my orders, though this should not reach you until after daylight.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,