Today in History:

554 Series I Volume XLI-II Serial 84 - Price's Missouri Expedition Part II

Page 554 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.

BATON ROUGE, August 4, 1864.

(Received 9.25 p.m.)

Major CHRISTENSEN:

The people in town think I will be attacked. I have not much faith one way or the other. I am ready for them; think I can hold the town; I know I can hold the fort. Dick Taylor and staff crossed the river night before last.

W. P. BENTON,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.


HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF WEST MISSISSIPPI,
New Orleans, August 4, 1864

Brigadier General W. P. BENTON,

Commanding U. S. Forces, Baton Rouge, La.:

SIR: The commanding general has no apprehension that the enemy intends to attack you, and does not believe that any considerable force is in your neighborhood. General Lawler, commanding at Morganza, has, however, been instructed to assist you in case of necessity, and you will call upon him if you think that there is any real danger and your own force insufficient. Troops from below will also be sent if necessary. Keep the commanding general constantly posted on the state of affairs.

C. T. CHRISTENSEN,

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.

BATON ROUGE, August 4, 1864.

(Received 11 p.m.)

Major C. T. CHRISTENSEN,

Assistant Adjutant-General:

I shall not need any troops from below. I have sent for two regiments from Morganza. I have very little apprehension of being attacked. With the permission of Major-General Canby I will march out and attack Scott to-morrow.

W. P. BENTON.

Brigadier-General, Commanding.


HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF WEST MISSISSIPPI,
New Orleans, La., August 4, 1864.

Brigadier General W. P. BENTON,

Commanding U. S. Forces, Baton Rouge, La.:

SIR: Use your own discretion as regards marching out to attack the enemy. If you think proper to do so the commanding general has no objection.

C. T. CHRISTENSEN

Major and Assistant Adjutant-General.


HDQRS. MILITARY DIVISION OF WEST MISSISSIPPI,
New Orleans, La., August 4, 1864.

Brigadier General M. K. LAWLER,

Commanding, &c., Morganza, La.:

SIR: General Benton reports the enemy in force on the Port Hudson road, and expects an attack. I do not believe that the enemy has any


Page 554 LOUISIANA AND THE TRANS-MISSISSIPPI. Chapter LIII.