N. G. Evans to P. F. Stevens, January 21, 1862

COLONEL:

I received a report last night that the negroes on Edisto Island attacked at 12 m. yesterday our pickets at the summer house. I wish to capture the party and check this insurrection. The negroes have evidently been armed by the enemy, who are no doubt lurking in the rear. I send you an order to go to-morrow with 100 infantry and a company of cavalry to attack the party. Captain Miller has been in- , structed to furnish every assistance, and will probably have the flats in position for you. You had better send your regimental quartermaster to fix the bridge over the cut. Should you not be able to cross the cavalry, you can dismount a portion and leave the balance as a guard. Send word to your pickets at Bennett’s Point to keep a sharp lookout and to send word to Captain Perrin. The battery at Pineberry will receive orders to fire into any craft that should attempt to cut you off. I wish you to take four days’ rations, and to advance with caution as far on the island ds possible, making a thorough reconnaissance, and find out

6 E R—VOL VI the position of the enemy. Should you find him in strength and position as would warrant a successful attack, you will attack and drive him at least under cover of his guns. 1 j

Captain Miiler reports that there is a considerable quantity of potatoes and some corn on the island. You will destroy all you possibly can with your party. All negroes taken will be brought over to the main-land to be sent to jail. Should any attempt to escape, they will be shot. On your return make a written report of your operations.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,