Monday, December 12, 1864

BRAXTON BRAGG, CSA, Augusta To John B. Sale:

The telegraph having been cut we get nothing from Savannah. . A dispatch from Wheeler gives copy of enemy’s order for the line of investment around Savannah. It is about eight miles from the city, and was to have been reached on 9th.


G.T. BEAUREGARD, General, CSA, Charleston, December 12, 1864—11.30 p. m.

General S. Cooper, Adjutant and Inspector General:

Lieutenant-General Hardee reports enemy developed in strong force along his entire front yesterday, and that he has been compelled to extend his lines. He asks for immediate re-enforcements.


P.M. B. YOUNG, Brigadier- General, Hardeeville

Major-General Jones:

The bridge has been destroyed. A party of Yankees from Sherman’s army landed at Hayward’s plantation to-day; destroyed some houses, and scouts report they have gone. It seems to me that this is the most important place just now. Can you send some troops here, with some artillery?

Sherman must be aware that our only communication with Savannah is by Screven’s Ferry. He will do all in his power to cut it: I believe he is doing it now. If my opinion is worth anything I should say intrench where you are, and come here with all that can be spared.

Most respectfully,


G.T. BEAUREGARD, General, Charleston, S. C.

Lieutenant-General Hardee, Sarannah, Ga.

About 450 men will be sent you to-day with instructions to General Jones to divert them, if necessary. These re-enforcements are the last you and Jones, who is subject to your orders, can hope for.

Keep yourself well advised, through staff officers and otherwise, of his ability to hold your communication, for Savannah must be held only so long as is consistent with the safety of its garrison.


W. T. SHERMAN, Major-General, King’s Bridge

I rode over and spent the night at Mr. King’s house, where I found General Howard, with General Hazen’s division of the Fifteenth Corps. I gave General Hazen, in person, his orders to march rapidly down the right bank of the Ogeechee, and without hesitation to assault and carry Fort McAllister by storm. I explained to General Hazen, fully, that on his action depended the safety of the whole army, and the success of the campaign.