to exert its whole power to protect the citizens of the Confederacy, and I hope due punishemnt may spedily fall on the felons you describe. General Holmes left some time since for Arkansas.

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

[17.]

VICKSBURG, August 1, 1862.

(Received 3d.)

President DAVIS:

Breckinridge sent to Baton Rouge. Expect him to attack Saturday or Sunday. Many of his troops sick.

EARL VAN DORN,

Major-General.

[15.]

VICKSBURG, August 2, 1862.

(Received 4th.)

President DAVIS:

Breckinridge has all the men I can spare. He has been reduced since he left one- half by sickness. Must not fail. I want Baton Rouge and Port Hudson, giving me the mouth of Red River. Batteries should be put up at Port Hudson. Can your order me some men to guard and hold! Force of the enemy below small and not formidable. With small army can take New Orleans. My district is drained; but few men left; many plantations without white males; want to do, but have not the means. I appeal to you. Louisiana troops best acclimated. Giver me an order for Waul's Texas Legion by telegraph.*

EARL VAN DORN,

Mjaor-General.

[15.]

SPECIAL ORDERS,
ADJT. AND INSP. GENERAL'S OFFICE, Numbers 181.
Richmond, August 5, 1862.

* * * *

XV. The Sixtieth Regiment Virginia Volunteers, under Colonel W. E. Starke, will proceed at once to Dublin Depot, Va., and report for duty to Major General W. W. Loring, commanding, &c.

XVI. Major P. F. De Gournay's battalion heavy artillery will without delay proceed to Jackson, MIss., and report for duty to Major General Earl Van Dorn, commanding, &c.

* * * *

By command of the Secretary of War:

JOHN WITHERS,
Assistant Adjutant-Geneal.

[16 and 15.]

RICHMOND, VA., August 5, 1862.

General BRAXTON BRAGG:

GENERAL: I have the pleasure to acknowledge yours of the 31st ultimo, and have read the inclosed letter of my honorable complinant

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*For reply, see VOL. XV, p. 794.

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