PORT HUDSON, August 21, 1862.

Major-General VAN DORN, Jackson, Miss.:

Can you let me have the Twelfth Regiment Louisiana Troops? If so, it can be stopped in time at Camp Moore. I have scarcely 1,500 men besides Bowen's brigade, which is required on the Amite. Has General Beall orders to join me?

DANIEL RUGGLES,

Brigadier-General.

PORT HUDSON, August 21, [1862].

Major-General VAN DORN, Jackson, Miss.:

Rumored that the enemy intend evacuating Baton Rouge. The absence of gunboats from this point gives color to the report. I shall soon know. If so, I shall prepare to move toward New Orleans.

DANIEL RUGGLES,

Brigadier-General.

PORT HUDSON, August 21, [1862].

Brigadier General M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Ponchatoula, La.:

Take measures to rebuild the Manchac Bridge and repair the railroad. Apply to Major Ranney, president. Let me know the condition of things by telegram to Clinton, La. Reported that the enemy is evacuating Baton Rouge. Push your scouts well forward toward the Mississippi to encourage that idea.

DANIEL ROUGGLES,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

PORT HUDSON, August 23, [1862].

Major-General VAN DORN, Jackson, Miss.:

Breckinridge's troops, Robertson's brigade, march for Camp Moore to-day; Bowen's to-morrow. I want McClung's rifle guns. Shall I retain his company?

DANIEL RUGGLES,

Brigadier-General.

PORT HUDSON, LA., August 23, 1862.

Major-General VAN DORN, Jackson or Vicksburg:

The gunboat Essex just passes up. It is represented that she intends passing Vicksburg to join the upper fleet. My troops are occupying the vicinity of the garrison to-day. It is rumored Captain Semmes has five iron-clad gunboats at mouth of Mississippi River.

DANIEL RUGGLES,

Brigadier-General, C. S. Army.

ORDERS,
HDQRS. LOUISIANA MILITIA, ADJT. GENERAL'S OFFICE, No. 841.
Opelousas, August 25, 1862.

I. The Militia now at Camp Pratt and in service, and composed of