T. A. Washington to Headquartebs Third Military District, November 26, 1861

Coosawhatchie, November 26, 1861.

General B. S. RIPLEY, P. A., Charleston, S. O.:

SIR: The commanding general directs me to say that the enemy can land on all the islands he can approach with his armed vessels, but he will hardly find it to his advantage to hold them after they have been pillaged. Urge forward, therefore, the obstructions to the Ashepoo and Edisto, and see if laborers cannot be obtained on the line of rivers to be obstrueted.

The deficiency in powder is a serious calamity, and the general desires you to furnish these headquarters with a statement of what is at your disposal on account of the Confederate States. The State has in addition 14,175 pounds of cannon powder, which it will no doubt distribute for the defense of Charleston.

Col. William V. Mallard is reported to be at Jacksonborough, on the Edisto, with two companies of infantry. As heis not mentioned in your report of troops furnished this office on your departure, you will please inform these headquarters in what service he belongs.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

Oaptain, and Assistant Adjutant- General.

Hardeeville, November 26, 1861.
Capt. T. A. WASHINGTON,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Coosawhatchie, S. C. :
Sm: Lincloseyou a copy ofa communication from Lieutenant-Colonel
Colcock, and although I have indorsed my approval of his application