| Charleston, S. C., June 8, 1862 |
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| W. J. Magrath |
| President, Charleston & Savannah Railroad |
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| Sir,
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| The worthless condition of nearly all
the steamboats in the employ of the Government renders it necessary
that I call upon you for the use of the ferry-boats of the railroad
company. I regret this necessity extremely, but I have no other
resource. The enemy in large force is preparing to attack Charleston
-- probably through James and John's Islands. I request you to have several trains ready to move at a moment's
notice for or with troops. It is desirable that the regular
passenger train should not move to-day, as it is highly probable the
cars may be needed for transportation of men or stores.
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| J. C. Pemberton
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| Major-General, Commanding
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