January 5, 1865.
Major Charles S. Stringfellow,
Assistant Adjutant-General, Charleston, South Carolina:
Major—I have the honor to report that in obedience to instructions from Major-General Jones, I assumed command of all the troops between Bee's creek and Tulifinny trestle on the 8th of December, ultimo.
About 9 o'clock on the morning of the 9th, the enemy opened on the left of my line a very rapid and continuous fire, from some eight guns. His line of skirmishers advanced about 10 o'clock, and immediately after the entire left became hotly engaged, our men fighting behind temporary earth works. Several attempts were made to carry our lines, but all were handsomely repulsed. The troops fought with great spirit. Foiled in his undertaking, the enemy moved to his left, in the direction of Coosawhatchie. The engagement was renewed most vigorously on our right at 3 o'clock P. M., and after an obstinate resistance by the enemy, lasting some two hours, he was driven eight hundred yards from his original line.
The Thirty-second and Forty-seventh Georgia regiments, the Seventh North Carolina battalion, and the battalion of South Carolina cadets, all under the immediate command of Colonel Edwards, occupied the left; the Fifth Georgia regiment, the First and Third Georgia reserves, under Colonel Daniel, the right. It was reported that General Gartrell was slightly wounded, by a fragment of a shell, before he reached the field.
The German artillery, Captain Bachman, rendered very efficient service on the left, as was proved by the number of dead found in their front. Major Jenkins, commanding the cadets, was particularly conspicuous during the morning fight.
Colonel Edwards deserves especial credit for the admirable disposition of his troops.
The enemy's loss, though not accurately ascertained, must have been heavy, as quite a number of his dead were left on the field.
Our casualties during the day were fifty-two killed and wounded. A tabulated list is herewith enclosed.
Both the officers and men of my command behaved well. Captains Haxall and Worthington and Lieutenants Johnston and Stoney rendered most valuable assistance in the execution of orders while the fight was progressing.
I am, Major, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
