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

[561] Fort Pillow will be made ready. Glean the country for provisions Husband ammunition.

General,—This command could not be withdrawn in any event. If the enemy effects a landing it will be below this place, which would cut us off. The gunboats expected (eight) may assist in preventing a crossing. Hurry them up; we have to fight it out. The transports at No. 10 shall not fall into the hands of the enemy; we must be reinforced. I regret any troops were removed from here. General Walker coincides with me in this.

The above received here just now, 11 o'clock A. M.

Ed. Pickett, Jr., Comdg. Post.

Telegram.

Colonel,—I arrived here this morning; found all going on well. General Walker's arrangements are satisfactory — as good as can be made with his force. I have left General Walker in immediate command. The enemy's forces on the other side are much scattered; if a force was sent to their rear via Gurnieville, Ark., it would relieve the pressure on this command, and, if strong enough, capture the forces south of St. John's bayou. Read my last despatch.

Van Dorn proposes to attack enemy in reverse at New Madrid. Be of good cheer and hold out.

You must be aware that you cannot, at this moment, be reinforced. Your command forms the garrison of that key to Mississippi Valley. Country expects you to defend that post of honor to the last, or until we can relieve you by a victory here; then to attack, in force, your adversary. Meanwhile, Pillow is being put in fighting order, for another stand, if need be. Send names of our boats above New Madrid; use them, if necessary, to obstruct channels in front of Island No.10.

Twenty-five or thirty canoes, three skiffs, and one ferry-flat on the lake.