Rebellion Record: a Diary of American Events: Documents and Narratives, Volume 5.
Frank Moore, Ed.

The undersigned, with orders from Flag-Officer Farragut and Major-General Butler, respectively, demand, in advance of the approaching fleet, the surrender of Vicksburgh and its defences to the lawful authority of the United States, under which private property and personal rights shall be respected.

Respectfully yours,

Your communication of this date, addressed “To the authorities of Vicksburgh,” has been delivered to me. In reply, I will state to you that so far as the municipal authorities are concerned, we have erected no defences, and none are within the corporate limits of the city.

But, sir, in further reply, I will state that neither the municipal authorities nor the citizens will ever consent to surrender the city.

Respectfully,

sir: As your communication of this date is addressed “To the authorities of Vicksburgh,” and that you may have a full reply to said communication, I have to state that Mississippians don't know and refuse to learn how to surrender to an enemy. If Commodore Farragut or Brig.-Gen. Butler can teach them, let them come and try. As to the defences of Vicksburgh, I respectfully refer you to the reply of Brigadier-General Smith, commanding forces at Vicksburgh, herewith enclosed.

Respectfully,

sir: Your communication of this date, addressed “To the authorities of Vicksburgh,” demanding the surrender of the city and its defences, has been received. In regard to the surrender of the defences, I have to reply that having been ordered here to hold these defences, it is my intention to do so as long as it is in my power.