Thomas W. Sherman to Lorenzo Thomas, December 10, 1861

General LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. 0.:

SIR : I have the honor to report that Otter Island has been occupied by six companies, with an armament sufficient for the protection of Saint Helena Sound and our right flank from any incursions of the enemy by the way of the Ashepoo River and South Edisto from the direction of Charleston.

I have also to report that Tybee Island is now in the occupancy of one regiment, and that an armament is being prepared sufficient to cover the channel leading into Savannah River. This armament, how- ever, is independent of that required for the reduction of Fort Pulaski. I have also to report that I have occupied Port Royal Island with General Stevens’ brigade. I very much regret the necessity of this measure, as, although fully convinced of its untenability by the enemy, he has commenced against us a system of blockade by constructing piles and stockades across the Coosaw River, washing the northern and western sides of the island, and thus intercepting the navigation around the island. General Stevens has driven off his pickets, and now holds both sides of Port Royal Ferry. This island can be held by a small force, and I hope to be able to make use of part of that brigade for other movements. At the same time I repeat my former recommendation for more troops here and some cavalry.

The enemy’s line can be considered strategically as occupying the country from Ossabaw Sound through Savannah and the important places on the Charleston and Savannah Railroad, viz, Hardeeville, Grahamville, Coosawhatchie, Pocotaligo, and so on to the left. Some point ou this line should be struck soon, but nothing but the development of circumstances and the quantity and kind of means in hand will fully solve the important question.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,