Alfred Roman, The military operations of General Beauregard in the war between the states, 1861 to 1865

We are fortifying Vicksburg to guard river from below. Would it not be preferable to send the boats we proposed dismantling, to assist the defence at that point, instead of fortifying Randolph? Consult General Villepigue.

Colonel,—The Commander of the Forces instructs me to inform you that your regiment has been assembled at Trenton for an important service, requiring great vigor and secrecy of movement, and the utmost coolness and resolution on the part of officers and men. Colonel Jackson has also been ordered to concentrate his regiment at Trenton, for the same purpose.

When both regiments shall have arrived and are ready for the field, you will assume command of the expedition, and march upon Paducah, Kentucky, with as much celerity as may be judicious for your animals. You are expected to move with the least possible baggage and subsistence, and, by a coup de main, enter Paducah, capture its garrison, and destroy the large amount of stores understood to have been accumulated there.

Any steamboats that you may be able to seize, of course will be burned.

Arms captured, if any, will be brought away, if possible, without endangering your command.

Detailed instructions cannot be given for your movements. The garrison of the place is believed to be small, much inferior to the force you will be able to command; and, should you be able to move with sufficient celerity, you can surprise the place and effect the purposes of the expedition, with brilliant success—that is, can destroy their supplies, capture prisoners, and greatly disturb their communications.

Show this communication to Colonel Jackson.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. S. Of course, you will so arrange your movements as to dash on to Paducah about daybreak. You should give out by the wayside that you are the advance guard of General Van Dorn, en route to take possession of mouth of river, to cut off retreat of enemy while we take him in front; General Price, meanwhile, to cross the Tennessee and march on Nashville.

General,—I have the honor to submit herewith a General Order, which I have published in connection with, and regulating the subsistence of, this army; the operation of which, I am assured, will be in the interest of all concerned, and