ALS of Governor F. W. Pickens on “State of South Carolina, Executive Department” stationary dated “June 21st, 1861”. 

“Mr. Richardson & Mr. Stuart, two young gentlemen members of the College Cadets
having brought a letter from Professor LaRude to request that I allow the Cadets to go on
to Va. for the three months vacation, and President Davis having agreed to receive them
for that term, I am willing now that they may go upon the condition that each member of
the company shall file with the faculty a written permission from his parent or guardian,
 & also upon condition that they get the consent of a majority of the faculty.  And I also
require that they shall return to their college duties on the first of October next.  I would,
at the same time, urge that some experienced and thorough-bred officer be elected as their
Captain, for the responsibility is very great to trust such valuable young men in great
danger under young & inexperienced officers.

I feel great reluctance to allow this privilege, for the college is chiefly identified with
the honor & welfare of the state, but as it is said the Professors desire it and that it is the
only way to keep the college together I agree to it.

                                                                                          F. W. Pickens”

The letter is in excellent condition, written in nice dark ink and a fine example of the early Confederacy.  This letter was Governor Pickens personal copy and on the reverse he has docketed, “College Cadets to Va., June 1861.” 

#HC98 - Price $350