P.G.T. Beauregard to James H. Trapier, June 16, 1863

Brig. Gen. J. H. TRAPIER, Commanding, &c., Georgetown, S. C.:

DEAR GENERAL: I found here your letter of the 8th instant* on my arrival from Florida. I regret that the change you refer to should have been made during my absence; but I think you entirely underrate the importance of your present position, which can be made a corresponding one to those of Brigadier-Generals Hagood and Walker, who have to protect their districts not only against negro raids, but against all depredators of any shape or color. The only difference is that they have at present a few more troops than you have, on account of the railroad connection between here and Savannah, which they must protect. In every other respect your district is as important as theirs. Indeed, the arrival of Admiral Foote to relieve Admiral DuPont on this coast makes it probable that new life will be infused into the Abolition fleet, and Georgetown may become one of their first points of attack. I have your protest at present under

SPECIAL ORDERS, Hpagrs. Dept. 8. C., Ga., and Fa, No. 125. Charleston, S. C., June 16, 1863. * * * * * * *

VIII. A military district, to be designated as the Fourth, and embracing all troops now in the parishes of Saint James and Saint Stephen, about Georgetown, and to the North Carolina line, will at once be organized, Brigadier-General Trapier commanding. He will establish his headquarters at or near Georgetown, and render the usual returns and reports direct to these headquarters. The number of troops in the district will be increased as soon as practicable.

By command of General Beauregard :