W. M. E. Martin to F. H. Harleston, November 22, 1861

Capt. F. H. HARLESTON, Aide-de-Camp, Charleston, S. O. :

CAPTAIN: On the 19th instant I submitted to General Ripley a detailed report of the causes which retarded the execution of his order of [the] 16th, relative to an expedition to theislands in possession of the enemy. In that report I stated that Captain Pope, who was assigned to the command of one or more parties by General Ripley, had gone to headquarters to confer with the general relative to the further prosecution of the scheme, and I gave my reasons for awaiting the issue of their conference. I refer you to the communication for a full explanation.

I have heard nothing since from Captain Pope, and I do not know whether he is still prosecuting his plans or has returned to his command at Stono, nor where to address him. I feel very anxious to discharge the obligation imposed upon me by the order, and I am at a loss whether I should wait longer upon Captain Pope. Under these circumstances may I ask the favor of you to mention the subject to the general, and to confer with Captain Pope, if he is in Charleston, and ask him to let me have his views or inform me whether he has gone to Stono? I am disposed to execute the scheme as to Port Royal Island and without waiting longer, and I would be most happy to be relieved from the suspense at present.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant.