Sir:

It appears to me a most essential object to restore as soon as possible & to preserve the Communication between Charlestown and this part of the Country, by way of Haddrell's (?) & Lempriere's Point. I have therefore ordered General Williamson, who is now I am informed, about Purysburg, (?) with 450 Men, & Col. Thompson, who is also there, to cross Santee River with the Troops under their Command, (except 50 of Col. Thompson's to remain at Purysburg) & march with the utmost Expedition on the North side of the River to Lanier's (?) Ferry, & I recommend it to you to do the same with the Troops now in your Camp, & to order those by whom you expect to be joined to proceed after you as fast as possible. I have sent similar Recommendations to Col. Howe & Beaufort, as to their Troops, & to Col. White respecting the Horse. My wish is that, as soon as this Force can be all assembled at Lanier's, (?) they sh'd cross the River for the purpose above mentioned, wh. I hope and think they will effect. I shall order the Arms and Ammunition you want, & provisions for all the Troops above mentioned, sent to Lanier's (?) Ferry. By the time they can arrive there I mean that the Militia which are directed to assemble at Wright's Bluff sh'd rendezvous there till a sufficient Number can be collected to reinforce the Troops now ordered & recommended to march to Lanier's (?) Ferry.