John Boyle to Thomas, December 18, 1861
Columbia, December 18, 1861.
(Received December 19, 1861.) Brigadier-General THOMAS, Commanding First Division, Department of the Ohio:
GENERAL: General Boyle directs me to say that the rebels are plundering and devastating the country near Edinonton. They seize all the hogs in the eountry, slaughter them, and paek them with the salt they force the farmers and country merchants to give them. There is no cavalry force here sufficient to clear the country of the marauders, Colonel Haggardâs cavalry not being nearly all armed, and itis too distant to send infantry, before whom the enemyâs cavalry will clear the country and immediately reappear when our soldiers have returned to camp.
General Boyle directs, me to say that he will march two regiments to Edmonton to correct this evil unless specially ordered to desist.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Acting Assistant Adjutant. General.