ALS, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 8, June 21, 1861. Anonymous handwritten letter to "His Excellency," South Carolina Governor Francis W. Pickens, in part: "It is noticed that the 'College Cadets' have volunteered for Virginia, during their vacation, and rumor says you have refused their petition. It seems the sentiment of the state, the voice of the people, that they should not go. We will need their services here, and almost every home has been darkened by the absence of some loved one…I pray you take not away the remaining rays of sunshine from the mother and the widow. We have already given to Virginia our best blood, and in legions…Carolinians occupy in her ranks the post of honor—but of danger too…these are our jewels, and I charge you to keep them bright, for our own adornment…warn them to return to their several homes and prepare to battle for their own soil…Carolina will look back and remember, with gratitude, one who saved her treasures, in her utmost need." In fine condition.
