SAVANNAH, GA., January 27, 1861.
I transmit herewith a copy of an order which was handed to me yesterday.
I refused to recognize Colonel Lawton’s authority, or to allow Lieutenant Bassinger to interfere with the barracks or public property. Lieutenant Bassinger, on my refusal to agree to comply with the order which he gave me, called on and obtained assistance from the city police and fastened up my public storeroom. The barracks are now under the charge of the police.
I do not think the State authorities design taking the stores from here at present, or that they will molest me so long as I allow them to keep my storeroom fastened.
Lieutenant Bassinger, an officer of the State, offered to give me any writing I might desire in relation [to] the post and stores, but I refused to take any, or to give him any information. Please inform me if I am to act different from what I have.
……….Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
E. BURT,
Ordnance Sergeant, U.S. Army.
Col. S. COOPER, Adjutant-General U. S. Army, Washington, D. C.
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[Inclosure.]
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SAVANNAH, January 26, 1861.
Lieut. W. S. BASSINGER :
SIR: You will immediately take possession of Oglethorpe Barracks, in this city, in the name of the State of Georgia, and under orders of the commander-in-chief.
The present occupants are not to be disturbed, provided they agree to remain subject to my orders, or to any proper authority of this State.
……….Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. R. LAWTON,
Colonel, Commanding.