Today in History:

779 Series I Volume VIII- Serial 8 - Pea Ridge

Page 779 Chapter XVIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-CONFEDERATE.

office and the small-arms. After Champneys has done what you want you can send him to me. Dyer will take care of the quartermaster's department. Ask Hollins to furnish you with a convoy for Russell's brigade up to Tiptonville past enemy's batteries.

L. POLK.

Colonel Pickett will send this off immediately.

MADRID BEND, March 13, 1862-11.30 p. m.

General POLK:

GENERAL: I this movement arrived from New Madrid. The enemy re-enforced and rapidly pushing their advance against our works. They have 8-inch and 24-pounders. Our gunboats are not sufficiently protected for such heavy metal. Upon consultation with Commodore Hollins and General Stewart I gave the order to evacuate the place. My boat (Mohawk) was hit in going to Fort Thompson. The enemy's batteries are not below Tiptonville. As soon as New Madrid is evacuated the commodore, Hollins, will drop down to Tiptonville and keep the river open below. As soon as I have my forces disposed to prevent the enemy crossing from New Madrid I will try and send part of my re-enforcements back. I have already organized the citizens into a police force. A large body of troops arrived to-day, supposed to be commanded by Sigel.

J. P. McCOWN,

Brigadier-General.

JACKSON, [March] 13, 1862.

General LEONIDAS POLK:

Send immediately one of smaller brigades to Major-General McCown, without field battery, with supply ammunition. Inform him no more troops can be sent.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

JACKSON, March 13, 1862.

General LEONIDAS POLK:

Send immediately one a smaller brigades to Major-General McCown, without field battery, with supply ammunition. Inform him no more troops can be sent.

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

JACKSON, March 13, 1862.

General LEONIDAS POLK:

Suspend movements of troops to support McCown. Hold entire command in readiness to march at instant notice. Enemy * * * in * * * landing at McWilliams' Landing, near Savannah.*

G. T. BEAUREGARD.

MADRID BEND, March 14, 1862-8 a. m.

[General LEONIDAS POLK:]

GENERAL: From the best information I can obtain I am satisfied that the enemy is building the railroad from Sikeston to New Madrid.

Everything has been quiet to-day.

J. P. McCOWN,

Brigadier-General.

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*Portion omitted illegible.

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Page 779 Chapter XVIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-CONFEDERATE.