AIKEN, S. C., February 12, 1865-2.15 p. m.

General D. H. HILL,

Augusta:

In obedience to peremptory orders from Generals Beauregard and Hardee, I move with most of my forces toward Orangeburg. I leave General Allen in command here.

J. WHEELER,

Major-General.

[47.]

AIKEN, February 12, 1865-4.15 p. m.

General D. H. HILL,

Augusta:

I find the movement upon us this morning was only a slight demonstration. They would perhaps have advanced farther had they found no opposition. I feel quite certain the enemy will make no general move upon Augusta.

J. WHEELER,

Major-General.

[47.]

NEAR MERRITT'S BRIDGE,

February 12, 1865-11.10 p. m.

General D. H. HILL,

Augusta:

If I am permitted to return to your assistance with my whole force, I think with your infantry we can protect Augusta and save the cotton, though enemy should move upon you with two corps of infantry and Kilpatrick's cavalry. I look upon it as a matter of great importance that we hold Augusta and save the cotton there. No other point is more important to us, except, perhaps, Richmond. After enemy have come close upon our works this side of the river, if you determined to evacuate the city, the cotton could then be burned. If the tar is put upon it the enemy could not save a single bale. We should all feel bad if the cotton is burned when the enemy is fifteen miles from Augusta, if they should not take the city.

Respectfully, general, your obedient servant,

J. WHEELER,

Major-General.

[47.]

AIKEN, February 12, 1865-2 p. m.

Lieutenant-General HARDEE,

Charleston:

A dispatch from you, and one of the same purport from General Beauregard, received. Am moving with most of my force as directed. Will cross North Edisto at Gunter's Bridge unless information received en route make it necessary to cross elsewhere. Enemy advanced this morning, but on finding my forces in position, retired just as your dispatch was received.

JOS. WHEELER,

Major-General.

[47.]