CHAPTER XI.
OPERATIONS IN TEXAS, NEW MEXICO, AND ARIZONA.
June 11, 1861-February 1, 1862.
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CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE.

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INSPECTOR-GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, Va., June 12, 1861.

Brig. Gen. EARL VAN DORN, Comdg., &c., San Antonio, Tex.:

GENERAL: Herewith you will receive a requisition for twenty companies of infantry, to be raised within the State of Texas, made by authority of the President of the Confederate States. The recent law of Congress, passed at Montgomery, empowers the President to receive into the service of the Confederate States for the war, unless sooner discharged, companies of men from the several States, to be organized by him into battalions, squadrons, or regiments. But this organization will not take place until the arrival of such companies at any point which may be designated by the Executive. It will therefore be understood that the first enrollment will be by companies, the officers of such companies to be elected by the men.

To carry into effect this requisition, you will, when requested by the governor of the State of Texas, order an officer of the Army of the Confederate States to act as mustering officer at such points as may be designated by the governor (not expected to be more than two), by whom the several companies, with their organizations, will be mustered into service. It is the order of the President that the companies coming from Texas shall be fully armed, four of them with rifles, if practicable.

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Orders for the supply of arms, ammunition, camp and garrison equipage, clothing, transportation to the points of embarkment, and quartermaster and commissary stores, are to be issued to the proper officers in Texas. Such as cannot be there supplied will be provided at this place or at such other point as may be deemed important.

The organization of a company of infantry is, one captain, one first and two second lieutenants, four sergeants, four corporals, two musicians, and not more than 100 nor less than 64 privates. The field and staff officers are to be appointed by the President, after the companies shall have been embodied into regiments, on their arrival at the point designated by him.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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RICHMOND, June 12, 1861.

His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS, President Confederate States:

SIR: In accordance with your direction I have the honor to submit the following memoir for defense of the coast of Texas:

For the month of the Sabine River, two 24-pounders and one company. For Galveston Island, four or five 8-inch columbiads, in addition to their present supply, and, relying upon the volunteers of the city, three companies would suffice. I would, however, recommend five if they could be granted. At the mouth of the Brazos River, one 24-pounder siege carriage and one company. At Pass Cavallo, three 32-pounders and two companies. At Aransas, two 24-pounders and one company.

At Sabine the town amounts to very little, but a railroad runs up the river connecting with the road from Houston to New Orleans. Sabine and Houston are now connected by rail. A battery on Texas Point, at the mouth of the river, would keep off anything that could enter unresisted and resist a boat landing successfully, as, except on the Texas Point, the ground is so soft no landing on the flanks of a battery could be made. A small party once established at Sabine City could break up all the railroad communication from Houston to New Orleans (now not complete, but expected to be soon finished).

At Galveston an enemy could have no object in coming into the harbor as a means of injury to the town. He could lay off the Gulf beach in gunboats, shell and burn the city, unless kept at a distance by heavy guns, or might use the roadstead inside the bar for a harbor of refuge unless driven away. The number of guns proposed, with what I suppose are already in Galveston, will suffice. I would suggest that a part of the force at Galveston should be mounted.

The Brazos River is 42 miles from Galveston; is connected by canal with Galveston Bay. A large quantity of cotton and sugar is transported by that route. One 24-pounder siege carriage is all I think necessary.

Pass Cavallo, entrance to Matagorda Bay, from whence the principal roads to Austin and San Antonio start, seven to ten feet on the bar. Three 32-pounders, one on Decrow’s Point and two at the light-house, will do well.

Aranzas.-The bar has seven to ten feet water. From the mainland a good road to San Antonio and Western Texas via Goliad.

Brazos Santiago, I understand from Major Marshall, is already provided for.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. H. STEVENS, Captain Engineers, C. S. Army.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, July 8, 1861.

Brig. Gen. H. H. SIBLEY, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: In view of your recent service in New Mexico and knowledge of that country and the people, the President has intrusted you with the important duty of driving the Federal troops from that department, at the same time securing all the arms, supplies, and materials of war. You are authorized to take into the Confederate States service all disaffected officers and soldiers on the original commissions of the former and enlistments of the latter.

You will proceed without delay to Texas, and in concert with Brigadier-General Van Dorn organize, in the speediest manner possible, from the Texas troops, two full regiments of cavalry and one battery of howitzers, and such other forces as you may deem necessary. If successful in accomplishing the object herein indicated, the President directs that you will, in the exercise of a sound discretion, proceed to organize a military government within the Territory, the detail of which you will submit to him at the earliest possible moment. The instructions being of a general nature, it is not deemed necessary to confine you to matters of detail which may from time to time arise. In this respect you will be guided by circumstances and your own good judgment.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, July 8, 1861.

His Excellency Governor CLARK, Austin, Tex.:

SIR: General H. H. Sibley has instructions from the President to proceed to Texas, there to organize a brigade of mounted troops for certain purposes. It is respectfully requested that you will extend to General Sibley such facilities in your power as will best insure his early success in raising this force.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,

L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War.

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ADJUTANT AND INSPECTOR GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, July 9, 1861.

Brig. Gen. EARL VAN DORN, Comdg., &c., San Antonio, Tex.:

GENERAL: General Sibley, under instructions from the President, is to proceed to Texas, there to carry out, in concert with yourself, certain measures of which he will advise you upon his arrival at San Antonio. It is desired that you will extend every facility to General Sibley in successfully carrying out his instructions, supplying as far as possible the material for the armament and equipment of his command, and such needful supplies as he may require from the different depots under your control.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT No. 1, C. S. ARMY, New Orleans, La., July 24, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:

SIR: I have been credibly informed by gentlemen just from Galveston that the commander of the blockading ship before that place has demanded that he shall have free communication with the Union men ashore, and if denied he will shell the town. There are no heavy guns at Galveston; consequently it is at the mercy of the enemy. My aide-de-camp, Capt. E. Higgins, late of the U. S. Navy, a most energetic and accomplished officer, volunteers to take to Galveston, via Berwick Bay, one or more 9-inch guns. By placing them in battery on the island he is confident that he can drive the ship off or sink her in twenty-four hours.

I have great confidence in Captain Higgins, and but for the exigency of the case would not consent to his leaving the city. Indeed, I have so high an opinion of his experience and skill, that I would gladly see him placed in charge of the naval defenses of this coast.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. E. TWIGGS, Major-General, Commanding.

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STATE OF TEXAS, ADJUTANT-GENERAL’S OFFICE, Austin, Texas, July 27, 1861.

Capt. T. A. WASHINGTON, Asst. Adjt. Gen., San Antonio, Tex.:

SIR: I have the honor to inclose to you a copy of a communication received to-day from the War Department, by the governor of the State, who wishes it to be brought to the knowledge of General Van Dorn.* The call is not explicit as to the nature of the arm required by the President. Considering the slowness of the mails between Texas and Richmond, the governor cannot refer the matter to the War Department, and wishes to receive on the subject the opinion of the general, who may have received fuller instructions. Cavalry could be raised at once; it will be more difficult to raise infantry. Will one or two companies of artillery be received?

Do the words “These camps will be under the control of this department” mean that the troops are to be supplied and paid by the Confederate States? In view of the condition of our public treasury, the State could not bear such a burden for any length of time.

The Secretary of War leaves to the governor the selection of two camp grounds for the concentration of the companies. His excellency, feeling the necessity of a harmonious action between the civil and military authorities in Texas, and considering that the general is the best judge as to the accessibility of the places and their relative advantages under the strategic point of view, desires to receive his suggestions on the subject.

I have also the honor to inclose to you a copy of Special Orders, No. 18, from this department, relative to the organization of a force under the authority of the State of Texas, to be kept in readiness to meet any emergencies on the frontiers of Missouri and Arkansas. These orders have been communicated to nobody except the officers concerned in the organization. The governor believes that they ought to be kept secret {p.95} as long as possible to avoid giving too early information to the enemy. These troops have been organized in such a manner as to come within the provisions of the act of Congress of March 6, 1861, “For public defense,” except the brigadier-generals, who could not preserve their commissions under the authorities of the Confederate States.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant,

X. B. DEBRAY, Aide-de-camp and Assistant Adjutant-General.

* Reference is to requisition of June 30, 1861, upon the several governors, the call upon Texas being for 2,000 men. Sec Vol. I, Series IV, pp. 260, 261.

[Inclosure.]

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 18.}

HDQRS. TEX. STATE TROOPS, A. G. O., Austin, Tex., July 25, 1861.

The governor of the State, taking into consideration the gloomy aspect of affairs in Missouri, the dangers threatening the State of Arkansas and the friendly Indian nations in the territory, being firmly convinced that the integrity of our own territory depends upon the success of Southern arms in Missouri, and apprehending that this success cannot be secured without the assistance of Texas, and in the absence of any legislative enactments making provisions for or even anticipating the actual emergencies, has taken upon himself the responsibility of calling into the active service of the State an adequate force to place Texas in a proper military attitude on her northern frontier: Therefore-

I. The regiment already raised by Col. W. C. Young, in the seventh and eighth military districts of the State, and stationed in the Indian Territory, is accepted into the service of the State. The sixth military district, composed of the counties of Kaufman, Van Zandt, Wood, Upshur, Harrison, Henderson, Smith, Rusk, and Panola, shall furnish one regiment of mounted troops, to be organized under the superintendence of Col. M. F. Locke, of Upshur, aide-de-camp to the governor. The seventh military district, composed of the counties of Lamar, Red River, Bowie, Hopkins, Titus, Cass, and Marion, shall furnish five companies of mounted troops, under the superintendence of Col. W. C. Batte, of Titus, aide-de-camp to the governor. The eighth military district, composed of the counties of Fannin, Hunt, Grayson, Collin, Dallas, Denton, Tarrant, and Cooke, shall furnish five companies of mounted troops, to be organized under the supervision of Col. W. C. Young, aide-de-camp to the governor. The ninth military district, composed of the counties of Ellis, Hill, Navarro, McLennan, Limestone, Freestone, Bell, Falls, Johnson, and Williamson, shall furnish one regiment of mounted troops, to be organized under the supervision of Col. W. H. Parsons, aide-de-camp to the governor.

II. The whole force thus organized shall constitute a division, to be known as the First Texas Division.

III. The division shall be divided into two brigades. The First Brigade, composed of the First Regiment (Colonel Young’s) and the Second Regiment, raised in the seventh and eighth military districts; the Second Brigade, composed of the Third Regiment, raised in the sixth military district, and the Fourth Regiment, raised in the ninth military district. The command of the division shall be intrusted by the governor to one of the brigadier-generals, elected as follows:*

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XIV. The troops of the division shall be governed in all points by the Regulations of the Army of the Confederate States, and by such orders {p.96} and instructions as they may from time to time receive from the adjutant-general of the State.

The governor, in making an appeal to the citizens of the State to take arms for the protection of our territory and liberties, assures them that every exertion shall be made to secure their comfort, so far as is compatible with the resources of the country. They may have to endure the hardships and privations incident to a campaign in a sparsely-settled country; they will meet them with the patriotic abnegation which has always inspired the Texan soldier. The credit of the State will be pledged for procuring supplies until the necessary appropriations are made. There is not at present one single dollar in the treasury to pay the troops; but the governor will press the subject upon the next legislature, and knows that our chivalric soldiers will bear cheerfully with the delay in remunerating them for their services. They are not hirelings; they rush to arms for the defense of their families, friends, and liberties.

By order of the governor:

WM. BYRD, Adjutant-General.

* Details of organization omitted.

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WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A, Richmond, August 1, 1861.

Brig. Gen. BEN. MCCULLOCH:

SIR: I am directed by the Secretary of War to invite your attention to the following suggestions contained in a letter written to the President by Chief Justice M. H. McWillie, La Mesilla, Ariz., and dated 30th of June, 1861, to wit:

These interests are communicated for your information.

Respectfully,

A. T. BLEDSOE, Chief of Bureau of War.

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SAN ANTONIO, TEX., August 10, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: I have the honor to report that I have called upon the governor of Texas for ten companies of infantry, to be stationed at Galveston, for the defense of that island and city, and that I have appointed, subject to the approval of the President, the following field officers: Capt. J. C. Moore, C. S. Army, colonel; Mr. J. T. Ward, lieutenant-colonel; Maj. X. B. Debray, major. Colonel Moore is now in command of the defenses of Galveston and captain in the Army. Mr. J. T. Ward has been connected with the U. S. Army for six or eight years, and is well qualified for the position I have assigned him. Major Debray will hand you this letter, and you may judge for yourself of his qualifications. I hope you will be pleased to approve of these appointments, as well as of my calling upon the governor for the regiment. I am so isolated from the headquarters of the Army that I am compelled to act a little independent of the usual authorities, and to assume responsibilities not given me by the Regulations of the Army.

I expect in a day or two to receive a reply to my dispatch sent to you by Mr. Sweet, of this city. If I do not, I shall call upon the governor for ten more companies, to be stationed at Fort Brown. The troops now there will not muster into the service of the Confederate States for the war, and I will be compelled to replace them by others who will. It is advisable, without doubt, to have at least a regiment there. I respectfully recommend the following gentlemen to the command as field officers: Col. P. N. Luckett, now quartermaster-general of this State, appointed by the Convention, and a “West Pointer,” as colonel; for lieutenant-colonel, A. Buchel, of Indianola, formerly of the army in Mexico; served under General Davis at Buena Vista; as major, E. F. Gray, formerly of the Navy, of Houston. These gentlemen I shall appoint subject to your approval.

It will be gratifying to you to learn of the complete success of Colonel Baylor’s expedition against the U. S. troops in New Mexico; 700 prisoners of war were taken, with their arms, &c. I have not as yet received the official report, but have some of the facts from eye-witnesses of the surrender.

I hear from headquarters but seldom, and am inclined to believe that my letters are intercepted. The governor of the State has received important dispatches from you in regard to the raising of troops for the Confederate service. I have received nothing.

An interchange of several shots between our batteries and the blockading vessels took place at Galveston the other day. One man, a citizen, was killed by a shell from the South Carolina. The vessels were driven off.

Very respectfully, sir, I am, your obedient servant,

EARL VAN DORN, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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RICHMOND, August 14, 1861.

General P. O. HUBERT, New Orleans, La.:

You are appointed a brigadier-general in the Provisional Army, and assigned to the Department of Texas. Your attention is specially directed to the coast defenses of Texas. General Van Dorn has been ordered here for duty. You will proceed at once to Galveston, where {p.98} your orders will follow you, and communicate to General Van Dorn the order for him to report here for duty. The mails are so irregular that its transmission in that way would probably delay it.

L. P. WALKER.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 123.}

ADJT. AND INSP. GEN.’S OFFICE, Richmond, Va., August 14, 1861.

I. Commander W. W. Hunter, C. S. Navy, will proceed to Galveston and report to General Earl Van Dorn for duty as superintendent in charge of the works for the defense of the coast of Texas.

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XVII. Gen. Earl Van Dorn will turn over the command of the Department of Texas to the officer next in rank in the State, and will repair immediately to this city and report to the Adjutant-General.

XVIII. The command of the Department of Texas is assigned to Brig. Gen. Paul O. Hébert, Provisional Army. He will immediately repair to San Antonio, Tex., and assume the command.

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By command of the Secretary of War:

JNO. WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant-General,

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RICHMOND, VA., August 28, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:

SIR: I have the honor to report to you that I have been instructed by the governor of Texas, as his aide-de-camp, to proceed to this city for the purpose of conferring with your honor on subjects connected with the military standing and defense of Texas, and which are now respectfully laid before you:

The governor of Texas being convinced that the integrity of the soil of Texas greatly depends upon the success of the Southern cause in Missouri, and moved by an appeal to the people of Arkansas and Texas (published at the beginning of July by General Ben. McCulloch) ordered on the 25th ultimo the raising and concentration on Red River of 3,000 mounted men besides the regiment commanded by Col. W. C. Young, which has been occupying for several months Forts Arbuckle, Cobb, and Washita, under the authority of Texas, and at the request of the Chickasaw Indians. These troops were to have completed their organization into regiments on the 20th instant, the men supplying their own horses and arms, and taking service for twelve months, unless sooner discharged. The success of our arms in Missouri, the friendly feelings of the Territory Indians, except, however, the Cherokees, and also the approach of the winter season, seem to remove any plausible contingency of an immediate attack on the northern frontier of Texas, but it is probable that in fall or winter one or perhaps several simultaneous attacks will be attempted on our coast, which extends over several hundred miles, and is very sparsely inhabited, except the vicinity of Galveston Island. We must therefore prepare to meet any contingency in that quarter, and considering the vast extent of the territory of Texas, the slowness of mail communications, and the want of railroad transportation, these preparations cannot be made too soon.

To meet these exigencies the governor charged me to respectfully request that the force above referred to be accepted into the service of {p.99} the Confederate States. Texas cannot support them for a longer term than one month. Should the acceptance of their services be declined, it will become necessary to disband them.

The State of Texas raised in March last a force of five companies to take possession of and occupy Fort Brown and Ringgold Barracks, on the Rio Grande. The men who compose it enlisted for six months, and their period of service expires on the 9th of September. They refuse to re-enlist unless they are relieved for more active service from these stations, in which they have labored very hard to restore the old fort and to give a greater extension to its works. If some steps are not taken at once to garrison these two points, that frontier will be unprotected at a time when the probable complication of political affairs in Mexico and the presence of a blockading force render urgent the presence of an efficient force on the Rio Grande.

The governor received on the 29th of July a requisition from your honor, dated June 30, for 2,000 men, to be kept in camps of instruction on two accessible points. The governor communicated with General Van Dorn to ask his opinion as to the location of these camps. The general, having received no orders on the subject from your Department, could give no answer. The governor would wish to know whether these troops are to receive their subsistence from the Confederate States or the State, and whether the camps must be accessible to some particular point or points of defense or merely to subsistence and stores.

General Van Dorn made a requisition on the governor for ten companies of infantry to garrison Galveston Island. These troops are now raised. Their term of service is for the war, unless sooner discharged. They are now awaiting their organization into a regiment.

In compliance with a communication from your honor, delivered to the governor by an officer of General Sibley’s staff; the raising of his brigade was progressing when I left Texas, and its organization must have been completed by this time. The men are to serve for the war, and to supply their own horses and arms.

Sixteen companies are now on the march from Texas to Virginia. Their first column, composed of five companies, was at Niblett’s Bluff; La., on the 16th instant. Two other detachments were to follow at two days’ interval each. The twenty companies for which a requisition had been made from your Department were complete, but six of them were carried out of the State by Colonel Greer without the knowledge of the governor, who, so soon as he was apprised of the fact, took steps to supply the deficiency.

In conclusion, I would beg to state that the people of Texas are now fully impressed with the earnestness of the struggle brought upon us, and will answer with alacrity any call from the President of the Confederate States. The imperfection of the militia law of the State has been a source of difficulty for the executive. However, upon his suggestions the people are organizing, and about four hundred militia companies were reported to the adjutant-general’s office on the 9th instant, the organization still progressing.

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,

X. B. DEBRAY, Aide-de-Camp to the Governor of Texas.

The governor of Texas tenders to the Confederate States the services of four mounted regiments, fully armed and equipped. One of these regiments has been for several months occupying Forts Cobb, Arbuckle, {p.100} and Washita, under the authority of the State of Texas and with the consent of the Chickasaw Indians. The term of service of these troops is one year, if not sooner discharged. They are now stationed on Red River and Trinity River, awaiting further orders.

X. B. DEBRAY, Aide-de-Camp to the Governor of Texas.

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WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, August 31, 1861.

Col. X. B. DEBRAY, Aide-de-Camp to the Governor of Texas:

SIR: Your report on the military standing and defense of Texas, made to this Department under instructions from the governor of that State, has been received and attentively considered. I acknowledge with profound pleasure the zeal of the people and the energies of the government of Texas in behalf of the general cause, and it gratifies me to give assurance to your authorities of the disposition and earnestness of this Department to co-operate with them to the fullest extent within the limits of its powers. Those troops which have been called into service under the requisition of this Department will be paid and subsisted by the Confederate Government. It is desired that they shall be placed in camps of instruction, to be designated by the governor of Texas. Drill officers will be assigned to them, if possible, when this Department comes to be informed that they have been mustered into service. When arms are procured they will be armed and receive marching orders. With regard also to the troops called out by General Van Dorn, they will be accepted by this Department, and be also paid and subsisted by this Government; but in reference to the troops called out on the mere motion of the governor of Texas, this Department must first be advised concerning the necessity for their services before they can be accepted, and as to this it awaits to hear from the commanding general in the Department of Texas. It will at once occur to you that the Government could not preserve its integrity and assume the responsibility of paying and subsisting the troops that each and every State of the Confederacy might choose to draw into the field. The general commanding in Texas has been instructed not to permit the public welfare to suffer in that State, either upon the borders or in the interior, and the Department has great confidence in his ability, sagacity, and patriotism. It is hoped this officer and the governor of Texas will freely communicate with each other, and that they co-operate in all measures best calculated to secure peace and safety at every point.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully,

L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War.

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GENERAL ORDERS, No. 17.}

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, San Antonio, Tex., September 4, 1861.

By orders from the War Department the undersigned has been relieved in command of the Department of Texas, and is directed to report at the headquarters of the Army, at Richmond. He takes leave of the troops and of the people of Texas with unfeigned regret. From them he has, as military commander, received at all times their most hearty {p.101} co-operation and assistance, and as a private citizen such uniform kindness and attention, that he would do injustice to himself did he not here, on the eve of his departure from among them, express both his thanks for their kindness and his regret that he has to leave them.

The command, until the arrival of General Hébert, is turned over to Col. Henry E. McCulloch, than whom there is not a more reliable soldier and pure gentleman in the Army of the Confederacy.

Brig. Gen. P. O. Hébert, to whom the command ultimately falls, was the most distinguished graduate of his class at West Point; afterwards an officer in the Engineer Corps (Corps de Genie); then the lieutenant-colonel of a regiment of infantry during the war between the United States and Mexico, and subsequently the governor of the State of Louisiana. He is an able general and a high-toned gentleman. The troops of Texas will find no cause to complain of the change of commanders.

The undersigned further returns his special thanks to the staff officers at these headquarters for their valuable assistance: Maj. Sackfield Maclin, chief quartermaster; Capt. T. A. Washington, assistant adjutant-general; Capt. J. F. Minter, assistant quartermaster and commissary; Surgeon Langworthy, and Lieutenant Haskell, ordnance officer. Their energy, skill, and devoted hard labor, in the discharge of their duties in their respective departments, relieved him from painful anxiety, and gave such harmony to the working of the affairs of the department, that there has been no confusion and no deficiency, except where material was wanting and where time and distance were incompatible.

The command of the Department of Texas is here given up by the undersigned to Col. Henry E. McCulloch, and “he bids you farewell.”

EARL VAN DORN, Brigadier-General, Provisional Army.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Austin, Tex., September 7, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War:

SIR: Immediately upon the receipt of your communication of the 7th ultimo, upon the subject of providing clothing for our soldiers, the accompanying addresses were issued to the people of Texas. I have no fear that our people will fail to comply promptly with this call upon their patriotism. Indeed, they had in many places anticipated the views and wishes of Government, and gone to work in the holy cause. The greatest difficulty apprehended is the adoption of a plan of operations which will render our contributions speedily available. I trust the one proposed will prove so.

Allow me to suggest that a large amount of wool can be purchased in Texas for Confederate bonds or notes, which could be converted into cloth at our penitentiary, capable of turning out 1,000 yards per day, and rapidly made into clothing in sections of the country contiguous to the penitentiary. This would, of course, require an agent or agents to purchase the wool and to provide for its manufacture into the articles desired. It would also be expected that the State be saved from loss on account of the appropriation of the time and labor of the penitentiary to the above purpose, unless for the support and success of our cause it becomes necessary for her to perform this service gratuitously.

Any suggestions which you can make to improve or expedite the plan proposed to accomplish the object desired will be gladly received.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

EDWARD CLARK.

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[Inclosures.]

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Austin, Tex., August 31, 1861.

To the People of Texas:

The war in which we are now engaged will in all probability be prolonged for many months to come, and our soldiers exposed to the rigors of a winter’s campaign, and it becomes the demand of patriotism and of duty that the people should supply them with those things which are essential to their comfort. This can be effected at but little inconvenience and trifling expense to the people, and it will result in very material aid to the Government. Accordingly I wish to advise the formation in every county of a committee or society, whose duty it shall be to solicit and receive from every family in the county a blanket or comfortable. The articles thus contributed will be of little or no inconvenience to the family contributing, yet, when aggregated together, they will afford an immense supply for our sick and wounded soldiers. The committee or society should box up the contributions it may receive, and have them transported to Houston, Marshall, Sherman, Dallas, Austin, or San Antonio, from which points they can be sent forth wherever they may be needed. It is particularly requested that all supplies of this character which can be sent to Houston be forwarded thither without delay, and from that point they can readily be conveyed to our army in Virginia. In those instances where it is impossible to send contributions to either of the points designated, they should be taken in charge by the local committee, and held subject to the order of the governor of Texas.

In addition to these voluntary contributions for the sick and wounded, our soldiers will require clothing; and I further suggest that all articles of heavy clothing which can be made in the different communities be at once put into shape. This clothing will be paid for in the bonds of the Confederate States, and thus its manufacture may become the means of giving occupation to many persons throughout the State who would otherwise be unemployed. Of course the committee or society should also take the management and control of this business into its hands.

I will presume to offer no further suggestions. It is believed that Southern aid societies will be formed in every community, and they will judge best of the immediate means to be employed in accomplishing the end proposed.

EDWARD CLARK.

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ADJUTANT-GENERAL’S OFFICE, Austin, Tex., September 4, 1861.

To the People of Texas:

The Secretary of War of the Confederate States has requested the State executive to have made up, at an early day, a large quantity of woolen clothing, to supply the wants of the Army, to be charged to the Confederate Government. The medical purveyor has also asked aid from the executive to a plan to procure blankets for the sick and wounded of the Army. He suggests, very wisely, that almost every family, with little or no inconvenience to itself, can contribute a blanket or comfortable to his Department.

Warmly approving these suggestions, the executive issued his address, of the 31st ultimo, inviting the formation in every county in the State of {p.103} a society or committee to solicit and receive heavy clothing, blankets, comfortables, and other articles, which will be needed by our Army during the coming winter. The military stores thus furnished will be paid for in the bonds of the Confederate States.

To effectuate this plan depots will be established at central points, under the superintendence of the following agents, viz: At Jefferson, W. P. Sauffley; at Henderson, J. H. Parsons; at Palestine, A. E. McLure; at Dallas, Dr. Samuel Pryor; at Sherman, W. E. Sanders; at Waco, J. W. Speight; at Austin, W. H. D. Carrington; at San Antonio, Vance & Bro.; at Victoria, William S. Glass; at Houston, E. W. Taylor; at Beaumont, John J. Herring.

They will receive and forward to the proper destination the contributions of the county associations and of the citizens generally, and, whenever necessary, may furnish transportation and incur other expenses growing properly out of the discharge of their duties, on the faith and credit of the Confederate States. The State itself will sustain that credit to the utmost limit of its resources. All valid accounts for military stores thus furnished, or otherwise contracted by each agent in the discharge of his duties, will be certified by him to this office, where the same will be examined, approved, and registered. The county societies will forward their contributions to the agents at the most convenient or accessible depots.

Each of the agents at Henderson, Palestine, Dallas, Sherman, Waco, Austin, San Antonio, and Victoria will forward his collections to the most accessible depot, either at Jefferson, Houston, or Beaumont, and directed to the agent at that point. General depots will be established at the latter points, from which the military stores thus accumulated will be transported or distributed, under the directions of the President of the Confederate States. The agents designated for these purposes will also receive contributions from the county associations, private individuals, or any other quarter.

The State executive has received assurances from the managers of the different railroad companies in Texas that “they will transport troops and military stores intended for the defense of the country free of charge.”

To give vigor, efficiency, and life to this plan, the great body of our citizens must lend to it their persevering and active labors. No appeal can be necessary to arouse them to early and efficient action to prevent a frequent recurrence among the brave youth whom we have sent from our mild climate to Virginia and Missouri of the horrors of Valley Forge. No time should be lost. Winter will soon be upon them.

WM. BYRD, Adjutant-General.

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ADJUTANT-GENERAL’S OFFICE, STATE OF TEXAS, Austin, Tex., September 9, 1861.

Col. H. E. MCCULLOCH, Prov. Army C. S., Comdg. Dep’t San Antonio, Tex.:

COLONEL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 6th instant to the governor; also, in the same mail, one of the 5th instant, of Capt. D. C. Stith, C. S. Army, assistant adjutant-general, in reply to mine of the 29th ultimo, addressed to General Van Dorn*

{p.104}

The following is a recapitulation of the several requisitions made by General Van Dorn upon the governor for coast defense, viz: Ten companies of infantry for Fort Brown, or the Lower Rio Grande; ten companies of infantry for Galveston; two companies of artillery for Matagorda or San Luis; one company of artillery for Indianola; one company of artillery for Sabine Pass; three companies of artillery for Fort Brown (one of them a light battery): making in all seven companies of artillery. One company of cavalry for the coast between Sabine Pass and Bolivar Point; three companies of cavalry for Galveston Island; one company of cavalry for the coast between Matagorda and Indianola: making in all five companies of cavalry. In addition to the foregoing requisition, General Van Dorn called upon the governor for an armed regiment of infantry for the vicinity of Victoria. Under this latter requisition I have ordered four armed companies to San Antonio, to be mustered into the service of the Confederate States. In addition to these requisitions the President has called upon the governor for 2,000 men, to be stationed in two camps of instruction. I presume General Van Dorn intended his requisitions as exclusive and additional to this requisition of the President. We are bending all our energies to the work of filling these calls. It may perhaps be difficult to organize efficient artillery companies. They may, however, become so from subsequent instruction. The President, in his call, designed two camps of instruction. The governor authorizes me to say that he will, in accordance with your suggestion, designate Victoria as a point for one of the camps. It will, of course, have to be located by one of your officers. Companies will be ordered there immediately to be mustered into the Confederate service.

In his communication of the 22d ultimo, addressed to the governor, General Van Dorn stated that the troops for Galveston would report to Colonel Moore. Those for the small posts would go to their stations and report to the general, to be mustered into service. Those for Victoria and the Lower Rio Grande were to go to San Antonio. I quote very nearly his own language. It will be impracticable to send ten armed companies to San Antonio for Victoria under General Van Dorn’s requisition. Shall we send the whole ten, including armed and unarmed companies? It is likely the general designed ten companies, at all events, for Victoria.

I have ordered Captain Reuss, commanding an artillery company at Indianola, and who was recommended by Captain Buchel, to report to you under the requisition for an artillery company for Indianola. I suppose the general intended to station it at Sabine.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. BYRD, Adjutant-General.

* None of these found.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Austin, Tex., September 14, 1861.

Hon. L. P. WALKER, Secretary of War, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 19th ultimo, to the effect that the regiment of cavalry which went from Texas and joined Brigadier-General McCulloch at Fort Smith, about the 30th of July, “were denied arms by the authorities of Texas upon his (McCulloch’s) requisition therefor.”

In reply it will be sufficient to state the following facts:

1st. No requisition was made upon the authorities of Texas for arms for the above-mentioned regiment.

{p.105}

2d. Had such a requisition been made, it were entirely beyond the power of Texas to comply with its demands, from the fact that the State was, and continues to be, destitute of arms, those arms seized by Texas from United States troops having been transferred to the Government of the Confederate States on or about the 10th of April.

3d. The authorities of Texas did not receive a word of official information in reference to this regiment, either from the Secretary of War, General McCulloch, or from Colonel Greer, commanding the regiment. It was authorized, organized, and removed from the State independent of State authorities, and without their official knowledge.

The only thing approximating a requisition which has been received is a letter from General McCulloch, with the following reference to arms for the troops which he had been appointed to command:

“Two thousand of the arms at San Antonio are ordered to Dallas; also one battery of artillery.”

The communication containing this extract was dated April 14, at which time, as you are aware, the arms in Texas had been transferred to the agents of the Confederate States. Dallas is the point in this State where the regiment of Colonel Greer made its rendezvous. Hence the only conclusion was that the agents of the Confederate States had been ordered to send arms thither for the purpose of arming this regiment. The above quotation from General McCulloch’s letter is the only information in respect to this regiment from any one of the authorities interested which has ever reached this department.

From the foregoing facts you will perceive that no blame can attach to the authorities of Texas. They have faithfully endeavored, and will continue their efforts, to meet every requisition which has been or may hereafter be made upon them by the authorities of the Government of the Confederate States.

I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

EDWARD CLARK.

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RICHMOND, VA., September 14, 1861.

J. F. MINTER, Assistant Quartermaster, San Antonio, Tex.:

SIR: I have received your letter of August 19 ultimo, reporting a reduction and probable scarcity in the quartermaster’s supplies in Texas. I have not been unmindful of such a contingency, but at the same time I have not been able to fall upon any plan of resupplying you. The country is nearly bare of every needful article. It only remains for you to do your best in the country and depend in a large measure upon your neighbor, Mexico. Blankets and socks and some sort of a substitute for shoes you can get, and you may have to make clothes of buckskins. It will be of no avail to make requisitions on New Orleans. If a supply of clothing, &c., comes in despite the blockade, I will remember your condition.

A. C. MYERS, Assistant Quartermaster-General.

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GALVESTON, TEX., September 16, 1861.

His Excellency EDWARD CLARK, Governor of Texas:

SIR: I have the honor to report to your excellency that I have, under orders from the War Department, assumed the command of the Military {p.106} Department of Texas. It will be both my duty and pleasure to co-operate with your excellency in all matters concerning the defenses and safety of the State. I am now on an examination of Galveston harbor, and will extend the examination to other points on the coast. I will, if agreeable to your excellency, avail myself of an early opportunity of a personal interview. In the mean time I would respectfully ask for authority to receive and muster into the service of the Confederate States, for duty in this department, such companies as may offer with the full complement of men, thus not to interfere with the requisitions already made by my predecessor in command, and to form part of such requisitions as I may in future have the honor to make.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your excellency’s obedient servant,

P. O. HEBERT, Brigadier-General.

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GENERAL ORDERS, No. 1.}

GALVESTON, TEX., September 18, 1861.

I. In virtue of Special Orders, No. 123, from General Headquarters, dated Richmond, August 14, 1861, Brig. Gen. P. O. Hébert, Provisional Army, assumes command of the Department of Texas.

II. The orders issued by Col. H. E. McCulloch, as commander of the department, are approved.

III. Col. H. E. McCulloch, First Regiment of Mounted Riflemen, is relieved from duty at San Antonio, and will join his regiment.

IV. Colonel McCulloch will order the removal of the prisoners of war from Camp Verde, and place them for safety in detachments at the different posts of his command.

V. Transportation will be furnished by the Quartermaster’s Department. The Commissary Department will issue subsistence in kind to the prisoners.

By command of Brig. Gen. P. O. Hébert, commanding Military Department of Texas.

SAML. BOYER DAVIS, Major, and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Austin, Tex., September 19, 1861.

Brig. Gen. P. O. HEBERT, Commanding Department of Texas:

DEAR SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 16th instant, which was handed me this morning. I will answer by the mail which goes to-day to Galveston and by the first mail to San Antonio. I am happy to know that you have arrived in Texas for the purpose of taking charge of her military defenses, and take pleasure in assuring to you my prompt and cheerful co-operation in every instance where it may be in my power to assist you in the accomplishment of your duties. It will gratify me very much to meet you in person as soon as your convenience will permit. Your request to be allowed to receive such full companies as may tender their services to you is willingly complied with. I would be pleased, however, when companies are received by you, that the adjutant-general at this place be informed of the fact. I may here mention that Captain Ballue, {p.107} of Brazoria County, is said to have a full company of infantry, and desires to get into service. It may be convenient for you to accept this company at once.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

EDWARD CLARK.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, San Antonio, Tex., September 20, 1861.

Brig. Gen. P. O. HEBERT:

SIR: By request of your aide, Lieutenant Wilson. I make the following report of troops, arms, &c., as I understand them to be, in this department:

General Van Dorn made requisitions on the governor for three regiments of infantry, one each for Galveston, Victoria, and Fort Brown; also for seven companies of artillery (one to be light), for Fort Brown, Saluria, San Luis, Galveston, and Sabine Pass; but I do not understand exactly how he intended to place them all. Also five companies of cavalry, one for Sabine Pass and the coast to Bolivar Point; three for Galveston, and one for the coast west of that place. I have directed the troops intended for Galveston and Sabine Pass to report to Colonel Moore, for muster and orders; those for Victoria to report at that place to Maj. A. M. Haskell, for the same purpose; those for Saluria, to Capt. D. D. Shea, for the same purpose. At Saluria there are, or soon will be, two companies of artillery. The troops for Fort Brown are to be mustered into service here. One company of artillery (Captain Marmion) has been mustered, and will be sent on in a few days. Captain Kampmann’s company of infantry was mustered in yesterday (19th), and will be sent in a few days to Camp Verde, and Captain Buquor’s company, now at that place, sent to Fort Brown. The governor has selected Victoria and Millican as the points for the two camps of instruction for the twenty companies of the reserve army. Major Haskell has been ordered to Victoria to establish that depot, muster in and supply the troops, and command them. Lieutenant Dinkins has been ordered there to assist him. He wants Lieut. J. Sparks (now at Houston on duty) also, but I do not see how I can let him have him, as there is no other officer that I know of that I can send to muster in the troops at Millican. There is no quartermaster or commissary that can be sent to Millican at present to establish that depot and supply the troops; but Major Maclin, chief quartermaster, &c., Department of Texas, will send an agent there for that purpose. I have designated no officer to command that camp. I know of no one at all suitable, but shall instruct Lieutenant Sparks to put them to drilling, under their captains, until a commander be sent them. Colonel Forshey is in command at San Luis, at the mouth of the Brazos, but I do not know what troops or arms he has there. Several companies are now waiting at Victoria to be mustered in, so I learn. I have directed that one of the cavalry companies be mustered in at that place. General Sibley’s brigade is filling up rather slowly; twelve or thirteen companies are here and mustered in; others are expected daily. He talks of taking three regiments with him from this point, under instructions from the adjutant-general and an agreement between him and General Van Dorn. To aid him, this department will be entirely stripped of every tent, all the clothing of every kind, and nearly all other quartermasters’ stores. His transportation will have to be done by contract, or there would be none left in the department. Col. John S. Ford is at Fort Brown, where he has three or four companies of his own regiment (Second Texas Mounted Rifles), and {p.108} the other six companies are under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Baylor, and scattered from Fort Clark to Fort Bliss, and probably much farther up into Arizona and New Mexico. I regret to say that there is considerable confusion throughout this regiment, and there is nothing in the office here by which I can learn or know where all the companies are or know what they are doing; but I have directed Colonel Ford and Lieutenant-Colonel Baylor to inform me of their localities as early as possible. One company of regular cavalry, under Lieutenant Ingraham, C. S. Army, is at Fort Inge. My own regiment (First Texas Mounted Rifles) is stationed on the north and northwestern frontiers, from Fort McKavett to Red River; but the camp of three companies on Red River will be broken up and the troops removed in a short time to Fort Belknap, as General Pike desires them to be withdrawn from their present proximity to the Indian Territory, and they cannot very well winter where they are. Col. R. R. Garland, late of the Seventh U. S. Infantry, has been sent to Northern Texas (Dallas), to muster into the service the regiments of Colonels Stone and Johnson. Colonel Stone’s regiment has been, I have no doubt, mustered by this time, and will be gone in a few days to join the troops in Western Missouri. I have heard nothing of Colonel Johnson’s movements, and cannot tell what his prospects are for getting off. Colonel Gregg, of the same section, has called on me for arms, &c. (by order of the Secretary of War), for his regiment, and, as they are not on hand, I of course could not comply with the order. Captain Mechling’s company of light artillery has been ordered to Galveston, and is only waiting the completion of his caissons, which will be ready in two or three weeks. There is not more than enough (if enough) small-arms in the depot here to arm one regiment. There are some arms at Harrisburg, left there by Lieutenant Haskell, and there are some small-arms at Fort Brown; but I am unable to give you a correct idea of the quantity or quality at either place. The companies coming into service at Victoria and Fort Brown are poorly armed at best, and some of them have none at all; and if you do not need them at Harrisburg or Galveston, they had better be sent to this place or Victoria at once. Lieut. James Baltzell, C. S. Army, has been directed to remain here and muster such troops as may be reported here into service for Fort Brown. The prisoners of war, except the officers, numbering about 325, are at Camp Verde. The officers throughout the Department are remarkably slow in making their reports (my own regiment among them), when they make them at all, and, until this is remedied, no commanding officer can do justice to the troops or the service in this department.

I had hoped to see you here before this time, and regret to learn that you will not be here for some days yet; but, if it is your desire that I remain here and attend to the vast amount of business coming in here every day, I will do so until it will suit you to relieve me. But since the position is a perplexing one to me, it would gratify me much to be relieved as soon as convenient to you.

I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. E. MCCULLOCH, Colonel, Commanding Department.

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GALVESTON, TEX., September 20, 1861.

His Excellency EDWARD CLARK, Governor of Texas:

SIR: I have the honor to apply to your excellency for authority to muster into the service of the Confederate States, to serve during the {p.109} war, such volunteer forces from the State of Texas as may be deemed necessary for its defense.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. O. HEBERT, Brigadier-General, Commanding Department of Texas.

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ADJUTANT-GENERAL’S OFFICE, Austin, Tex., September 22, 1861.

Col. H. E. MCCULLOCH, Prov. Army C. S., Comdg. Dep’t of Texas, San Antonio, Tex.:

COLONEL: In my communication to you of the 15th instant I stated that all the State arms at the disposal of the executive are tendered to you or to your successor, to be used in arming the forces designed for the protection of Texas. I referred specially to requisitions made for that purpose by the officer commanding this military department. Texas has been, to a great extent, drained of the private arms of citizens by the independent regiments which have been armed and equipped in the State. The executive therefore turns over the State arms to your department in the confidence that they will be used solely in arming the forces designed for the protection of Texas.*

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. BYRD, Ordnance Officer State of Texas.

* Details omitted.

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FORT BLISS, TEX., September 24, 1861.

SIR: I have the honor to report that Mr. Barnes, the agent sent by me to transport the prisoners to New Mexico, has returned, and brings what I consider reliable information.

The order for moving the United States troops out of New Mexico has been countermanded, and the colonel commanding that department is raising two additional regiments of volunteers, two being already raised. Fort Union is abandoned, and the enemy have taken up a position 2 miles from the fort, which they are fortifying. They have there twenty-five pieces of artillery of various sizes. There are at this time at Union seven companies of regulars and three of volunteers; at Santa Fe, four companies; Albuquerque, four, and at Craig, five.

Barnes conversed freely with Judge Beard and many other prominent Americans, all of whom (Governor Connelly excepted) are for the South. There us some division among the natives, who are resisting the levy of their men as soldiers.

I shall watch closely their movements, and act as circumstances may direct. I would again urge the necessity of forwarding with haste re-enforcements. The Indians are exceedingly troublesome, and the Sonora Mexicans are threatening to rob Tucson, and have robbed Tubac. As I have before stated, I cannot, with the limited force under my command, keep the enemy in check and afford any protection to the citizens. My opinion is that troops are on the way from California to this Territory; but I shall do all in my power to hold the country against all odds. I will make no move against the enemy until the arrival of General Sibley. New Mexico can now be easily taken.

{p.110}

I shall send an agent to treat with the Pima and other friendly Indians in Western Arizona, as I deem it important to secure their aid and good-will.

I have the honor to be, respectfully,

JOHN R. BAYLOR, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Texas Mounted Rifles.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Austin, Tex., September 24, 1861.

Brig. Gen. P. O. HEBERT:

SIR: This will be handed you by my private secretary, Mr. L. R. Evans, whom I take pleasure in introducing to you. Mr. Evans is dispatched to you upon business of importance, and which he will fully explain in all particulars not mentioned in this communication.

I am pleased to find, by a communication of date August 31, from the Secretary of War to Major Debray, that you are clothed with full power to protect the military interests and welfare of the State of Texas.

There are now organized in Northern and Northeastern Texas four regiments of mounted men. These troops were called out by me at a time when danger threatened in the direction of Missouri, and with the view of meeting that danger in advance of the limits of the State. They were ordered out for twelve months, unless sooner discharged. They are fine troops, splendidly mounted, and, I am informed, very well armed. These men should be received into service by the Confederate Government. They volunteered readily. They have mounted and equipped themselves at great expense, and are anxious for service. It is not a greater cavalry force than may be needed in Texas. Whether or not, let them not be disbanded. If they should be, it may be difficult to meet future requisitions. If you should accept these regiments, as Major Debray says you have consented to do, you will. I presume, send a mustering officer immediately to them to muster them into service, and he should be instructed to take Austin in his route.

I regret that I cannot meet you in personal interview, and you will receive this letter in the way of suggestion, prompted by aim earnest desire to promote the cause in which we are engaged, for which you may at all times rely upon my most hearty co-operation.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

EDWARD CLARK.

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EXECUTIVE OFFICE, Austin, Tex., September 25, 1861.

General P. O. HEBERT:

SIR: I have the pleasure of acknowledging the visit of the Hon. Mr. Bryan, and of receiving at his hands your communication of the 20th instant.

The substance of your letter is a repetition of the request contained in your communication of the 16th instant, in reply to which I fully accorded the authority desired, asking only that when companies were accepted we might be advised of it.

I believe I have anticipated your views and wishes, as made known to me by Mr. Bryan, in almost every instance, and to the extent of my power. It will be my pleasure and aim to do so in the future.

{p.111}

By a special messenger, dispatched to you yesterday, you will learn that I have some 4,000 troops now ready for service, and offered for your acceptance. These men, for the term of their enlistment, are willing to go where ordered. They are mounted troops. Will not some two or three regiments of mounted men be needed on our coast? They are as fine troops and as well mounted and armed as any that can be procured in the State. I earnestly desire that you receive them. If, however, you esteem it essential to raise a regiment in the vicinity of the coast for service near Brazoria (as Mr. Bryan tells me has been proposed), you have my consent. As I have heretofore said, you may rely upon my ready co-operation in anything necessary for the defense of Texas or the Confederacy.

If it be possible, I would be pleased, indeed, to see you at Austin. If my presence was not at all times required here, I would not impose upon you the necessity of a visit to this city.

You will please excuse my brevity and seeming familiarity, as I am much pressed with business, and without my private secretary.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, &c.,

EDWARD CLARK.

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RICHMOND, September 25, 1861.

General H. H. SIBLEY, San Antonio, Tex.:

GENERAL: The Secretary of War, in reply to yours upon the subject of additional regiments, authorizes your acceptance of the tender of all armed regiments made to you by the governor of Texas.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,

R. H. CHILTON, Assistant Adjutant-General.

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ORDERS, No. 8.}

MILITARY DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, Galveston, Tex., September 26, 1861.

You are appointed colonel of the Fourth Regiment of Texas Volunteers, subject to the approval of the President. You will signify your acceptance to these headquarters. The regiment is to be stationed on or near the coast, from San Luis to the Caney, but must serve at any point in the State, if required. It is to be composed of two companies, to serve as artillerists; two mounted companies, to serve as scouts and vedettes, and six of infantry. It is desirable that the companies should present themselves for muster with such arms and ammunition as the men possess or can procure in their respective counties, these arms to do until the department is enabled to supply the deficiency.

Musket and cannon powder, in a limited quantity, can be sent to Columbia, or to some other convenient point, subject to your order. The two 6-pounders at Columbia should be finished and mounted as soon as possible, and I would suggest that they be placed in charge of Capt. W. G. Mosely. Captain Mosely was formerly in the service, and informs me that he has a company partially drilled, and will be ready in a few days to be mustered into service.

The department has no funds at its disposal, and but limited supplies of any description. You must make the best arrangements you can to supply your command with provisions and quarters. The Confederate {p.112} Government will no doubt pay all reasonable obligations incurred for the service and protection of the State.

You will take immediate steps to fill your regiment according to the above conditions, and are hereby authorized to appoint a competent mustering officer. Companies must be mustered for the war. You are requested to recommend suitable persons for the positions of lieutenant-colonel and major. You will make your reports in duplicate, addressing them to Galveston and San Antonio.

Maj. C. G. Forshey is assigned to engineer duty on the coast with your command. The object of your command is to afford such protection as can be given to that portion of the coast. You will therefore use your own judgment, as events may occur, in stationing your companies.

By command of Brig. Gen. P. O. Hébert:

GEO. R. WILSON, Aide-de-Camp.

Col. J. BATES, Brazoria, Tex.

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MILITARY DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, Galveston, September 27, 1861.

The Hon. SECRETARY OF WAR, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: I have the honor to report that since my arrival in this department I have, in compliance with orders, directed my attention to the Gulf coast of Texas. I regret to say that I find this coast in almost a defenseless state, and in the almost total want of proper works and armaments; the task of defending successfully any point against an attack of any magnitude amounts to a military impossibility. The port of Galveston is partially defended by a few open sand works, mounted with guns of calibers ranging from 18-pounders to 32-pounders, and of course totally inadequate to resist a bombardment with heavy guns. The few large guns now on the way, should they not arrive too late, will in some measure increase the efficiency of the harbor defenses. On a coast like this, however, where in calm weather a landing can be effected at any point, and the bays in the rear and flank of Galveston Island reached in that manner or by the pass at the west end, the problem of defense, considering the means available to that effect, is certainly one of very difficult, if not impossible, solution.

I am sorry to add that I also found this department entirely destitute of funds, either of State or General Government, and that, in consequence, all my efforts have thus far been completely paralyzed. I am mu hopes that funds or credit will soon be in the hands of the proper disbursing officers. As matters now stand it is a difficult matter, to purchase supplies on credit for the support of the few volunteer troops now in service. I meet with the best disposition to aid in any manner both from the people and authorities of the State, but the people are poor, and the State without money or apparent credit. Men are ready to volunteer for defense in companies and regiments; but arms, ammunition, provisions, and equipments are wanting.

Not to make too long the list of wants and difficulties, of which the Department at headquarters is probably already but too well aware, I have, in conclusion, the honor to assure the honorable Secretary of War that, although the difficulties surrounding my command now seem almost insurmountable, I will do all in my power to overcome them. In view of the distance of this department from General Headquarters, the {p.113} tardiness and uncertainty of mail communication, and the necessity often of prompt action, I may occasionally assume and exercise authority not delegated to me or in strict compliance with the regulations. In all such cases, however, the action shall be subject to the approval of the President.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

P. O. HEBERT, Brigadier-General P. A., Comdg. Dep’t of Texas.

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ORDERS, No. 19.}

MILITARY DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, Galveston, Tex., October 2, 1861.

Col. John C. Moore, First Regiment of Texas Volunteers, C. S. Army, is assigned to the immediate command of Galveston Island and its defenses, Virginia Point, and of the troops stationed on Bolivar Point and Peninsula.

By command of Brig. Gen. P. O. Hébert:

GEO. R. WILSON, Aide-de-Camp.

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ORDERS, No. 20.}

MILITARY DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, Galveston, Tex., October 2, 1861.

Galveston Island, Virginia Point, adjacent bay coast, and the peninsula of Bolivar shall constitute one command, and be styled the Military District of Galveston, Department of Texas.

By command of Brig. Gen. P. O. Hébert:

GEO. R. WILSON, Aide-de-Camp.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Austin, Tex., October 3, 1861.

General P. O. HEBERT, Galveston, Tex.:

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge, through this morning’s mail, a copy of your letter of the 30th ultimo,* handed my private secretary in Galveston.

I shall transmit immediately to Colonels Young and Parsons orders based upon your acceptance of their regiments. I would have been pleased to be able to state to them the service in which you will engage them, as I know it is a subject upon which they are much interested. I presume, however, that you design employing them in the State.

I regret exceedingly that you could not receive the other two regiments, now ready for service in Northeastern Texas. They are organized and anxiously desire service. They are mounted troops, and yet I think might be willing to take service as infantry in preference to being disbanded. Regretting to disappoint them, and fearing the result of a disappointment upon any future necessity that may come upon us for volunteers, I regret very much indeed to have to discharge them. If you think you will need more infantry, I believe these men would enter that arm of the service, and better soldiers, I know, cannot be obtained in the State. {p.114}

I regret to hear that you have been so embarrassed by the condition in which you found this military department. I supposed the coast had been as well prepared for defense as the ability of the Confederate and State Governments would permit. Since the 1st of June last, or thereabouts, the coast defense, and especially that of Galveston, has been confided to the Confederate authorities. I sincerely trust that you may in season make preparation for the reception of our enemy, should he conclude to make us a visit upon our coast. With a view to this end I have authorized the making of cannon at Galveston, and have agreed to purchase some already made at Lavaca, if suitable and worthy. I have also recently tendered to Colonel McCulloch such State arms as we have, and have already sent him 170 Colt’s improved revolving pistols, and have, subject to your order and acceptance, a few muskets and four 12-pounder howitzers, with carriages, but without caissons. These might be made available perhaps upon the coast. In offering these arms I impose the restriction of their being retained in the State for the defense of the State.

The regiments of Colonels Young and Parsons are clamorous for service, and fret under their confinement in camp; and I would therefore respectfully suggest that they be mustered into service and given active employment at the earliest possible moment.

Assuring you of my hearty co-operation in all things necessary for the speedy accomplishment of your wishes, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

EDWARD CLARK.

* Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, San Antonio, Tex., October 4, 1861.

Brig. Gen. P. O. HEBERT, Galveston, Tex.:

SIR: I have been very much disappointed that no mail brings me any direct tidings of you. I had supposed you would write to me if delayed long on the coast, and inform me what you desired me to do; but, hearing nothing from you, I must still be guided by my own judgment and do the best I can for the country.

I have ordered Lieutenant Sparks to Millican, to provide for and establish a camp of instruction there for ten companies of the reserve army and to muster them into the service, and I suppose he has gone to that point before this time. If he has not, the troops may suffer or disband for want of proper attention.

In my first letter to you I overlooked the fact that General Van Dorn had called for two companies of artillery for Corpus Christi, and had ordered two 24-pounder guns from Fort Brown to that point. I have received notice that two companies (infantry) are ready to be mustered into service at that point. I have ordered Captain Littleton, Second Regiment Texas Mounted Riflemen, to muster them in, and direct them to report to these headquarters, and remain at Corpus Christi until further orders. I rather incline to the opinion that these were intended for the artillery companies. If so, they can be put on that duty. Captain Parker, of Brownsville, reports a company of infantry ready for muster at that point, which I have ordered to be mustered in at once. Captain Brewin’s company of cavalry has been mustered into service by Colonel Ford for the war, under no particular call, and ordered to Ringgold Barracks; and, as there seems to be great probability that the troops will be needed along the Rio Grande and about its mouth, I approved the muster and directed them to be supplied.

{p.115}

I have given directions to have five months’ supplies sent up to the troops on the line from this place to Fort Bliss; five months’ supplies to those on the Lower Rio Grande, and three months’ supplies sent to my own regiment on the northern frontier of the State, and supplies are now being sent forward for General Sibley’s brigade, expecting it to move soon. We will not be able to supply him full rations of coffee or sugar, but will give him all we can possibly spare, putting his troops at the least on an equal footing with those of the department. He has seventeen companies mustered into service and expects others daily, and I hope will soon be full and on his march. I have made an appeal to the people of the State to turn out and fill up the regiments called for by General Van Dorn and the Secretary of War, hoping by that to show them that their services are needed now, if at all, and to get them to act at once.

Commissions for the Second and Third Regiments of Infantry have reached here, and I forwarded them at once to the persons for whom they were intended. I have no doubt that those appointed for the Fourth, or Victoria, Regiment by General Van Dorn will also be approved, and hence shall direct the officers appointed to go on duty at Victoria.

I have arrested a gentleman of distinction (Col. Charles Anderson, brother of Anderson, of Sumter), who had sold out all his property, and was going, he said, to Kentucky, via Mexico and New York, considering him as an alien enemy, and held as a prisoner of war, subject to the action of the Confederate States courts (if he sees proper to take it before them) or the order of the Secretary of War. He is a very intelligent man, and has been the leader of the opposition here, and was leaving the Confederate States, to connect himself with our enemies, after the expiration of the forty days given by the President in his proclamation, and I felt that I would not have been doing my duty to my country to have let him depart; consequently I interposed military power to prevent it, of which I shall inform the President as early as possible.

No important orders or communications have been received at this office from the Department at Richmond since your arrival in the State.

If you can possibly do without the small-arms sent from this place to Lieutenant Haskell at Harrisburg (a portion of them I suppose are still there), it might be well to send them to this place or Victoria, the latter probably being the proper place for them now.

Most respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. E. MCCULLOCH, Colonel, C. S. Prov. Army, Comdg. Dep’t of Texas.

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GALVESTON, October 7, 1861.

To the Men of Texas:

TEXANS: It is more than probable that your State will soon be invaded by the sea-coast. The enemy’s resources for such an attack would seem to be formidable. Yours to meet and defeat it lie almost entirely in your own strong arms, brave hearts, and trusty rifles.

Our infant Government has achieved wonders; but yet it must largely rely upon the States that created it and which have so gallantly sustained it to strain every nerve for their own individual protection. Look not to Richmond, then, for all your military inspiration and guidance. Remember the days of yore, when your own red right hands achieved your independence; and while some of your hardy sons are {p.116} prepared to share the glory to be won in Virginia, Kentucky, and Missouri, and others to guard the highway to the Pacific which they have won against superior arms and numbers, be it your portion of the duty which you owe to them and yourselves to keep your soil free from the enemy’s touch and to preserve unsullied the fame of the Texas ranger. Let every man, then, clean his old musket, shot-gun, or rifle, run his bullets, fill his powder-horn, sharpen his knife, and see that his revolver is ready to his hand, as in the trying but glorious days when Mexico was your foe.

Organize at once into companies, if possible into battalions, and report to me promptly at Galveston and San Antonio your locality, your number, your arms, ammunition, and equipments, and your distance by day’s travel, by railroad or otherwise, from the principal points on the coast.

Be ready to march at a moment’s notice, and wait for orders. Rely upon it that I shall not fail to call you when needed; and when I call, I know that you will come. I am too near to San Jacinto’s field to doubt for a moment that even against overwhelming numbers you will gladly rally to the defense of your homes, your families, and your liberties.

Our enemy may succeed, from his superior armaments, in ravaging your sea coast; but, God willing and you aiding, he will never hold a foot of your soil-never!

P. O. HEBERT, Brigadier-General, Comdg. Dep’t of Texas.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, San Antonio, Tex., October 11, 1861.

General P. O. HEBERT:

SIR: I ask you in advance to excuse me for seeming to interfere with you in your arrangements for the defense of the coast, which is under your immediate observation; but, hearing that you had not yet visited Pass Cavallo, and supposing that you have not been able to learn as much of the condition of things at that point as might be necessary to enable you to give such directions as would be advisable, hence I requested Lieutenant-Colonel Buchel, when here a few days since, to submit a written report concerning the defenses of that post, which I herewith inclose for your consideration, with the remark that it seems to me that it may be very necessary for you to send some competent officer to that point to examine the condition of the fortifications, arms, troops, &c., and put them in a proper condition for defense. I am not acquainted with Captain Shea (the officer in command there), and do not know whether he is sufficiently conversant with all the important duties of his position to enable him to do full justice to the service intrusted to him. The order to Captain Shea to desist from the further prosecution of the work alluded to by Colonel Buchel must have been given by General Van Dorn; but no record of it is on file in this office.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. E. MCCULLOCH, Colonel First Reg’t Texas Mounted Rifles, Comdg., &c.

[Inclosure.]

SAN ANTONIO, TEX., October 10, 1861.

Col. H. E. MCCULLOCH, San Antonio, Tex.:

COLONEL: In consequence of your request to furnish you with some information relative to the present condition of the defenses at Pass {p.117} Cavallo, I have the honor to state that Captain Shea’s battery of four 24-pounder guns is very much exposed, and is at present almost in a defenseless condition from any combined attack by land and sea or from any considerable force by land alone. The intention of Captain Shea was to erect a closed work (redoubt), but after commencing the work he was ordered from headquarters to desist from the further prosecution of the same until some officer detailed for the purpose should inspect the Pass and report upon the location and plan of the work. This officer has not yet arrived there. Captain Shea’s battery is at present situated near the light-house on Matagorda Island, and can only defend the principal entrance or ship channel into Matagorda Bay. The nearest point from which re-enforcements could be expected in case of an attack would be Indianola, distant about 15 miles from the Pass, and between these two points two large bayous exist, over which no sufficient means for crossing are provided. The East Pass or channel has no defenses whatever. From these facts you can perceive, colonel, the urgent necessity that exists for the placing of these points in a proper state of defense, or that the troops and guns already there be withdrawn from so exposed a position.

I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. BUCHEL, Lieutenant-Colonel Third Regiment Texas Infantry.

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ORDERS, No. 34.}

MILITARY DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, Galveston, Tex., October 11, 1861.

I. Batteries shall be established at Virginia Point and at the Galveston head of the Railroad Bridge. Capt. J. Kellersberg is charged with the construction of the works, as directed by the general commanding, and Major Cook with the armaments.

II. All necessary preparatory measures shall be taken for the mounting of the large guns expected as soon after their arrival as practicable, and arrangements made for the transportation of guns, material, &c., to the batteries.

III. The number of heavy guns being limited in number, it will be necessary to distribute them to the best advantage. The first two heavy guns received will be placed at Pelican Spit, commanding the channel, with a battery of 32-pounders commanding the channel, Bolivar Point, and East Bay. When replaced by other guns, the 18-pounder at the Spit will be put in battery at the Galveston head of the bridge. Two of the heavy guns will be placed in battery at Fort Point, and two on the beach near the front of Fremont street.

By command of Brig. Gen. P. O. Hébert:

GEO. R. WILSON, Aide-de-Camp.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Austin, Tex., October 12, 1861.

General P. O. HEBERT, Galveston, Tex.:

DEAR SIR: I did not hear from you to-day, as I hoped I should. You are doubtless too busily employed to write. I was anxious to hear at what time you would probably dispatch an officer to Northern Texas to muster the regiments of Colonels Parsons and Young.

{p.118}

I wrote to you by the last mail, informing you of the acceptance of the four cavalry regiments offered you by the Secretary of War, and desiring to know whether you still wished the two you had accepted. On the same day I dispatched a messenger, with the intelligence of their acceptance by the Secretary of War, to these regiments, and that I had communicated with you and him. This leaves them in doubt as to the ultimate result of their present condition, and for this reason I would be pleased to hear as early as your convenience will permit.

I see that you are energetically at work for the defense of our coast. I am pleased to be able to say that several brigades of militia are ready for service, if needed, and will be placed at your command if you need them.

I am gratified at the news from the seat of war. I sincerely trust it may prove true.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

EDWARD CLARK.

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GOLIAD, TEX., October 12, 1861.

To the Hon. SECRETARY. OF WAR, Richmond:

SIR: Having been at Brownsville, on the Rio Grande, for several weeks, on a mission of importance for the State of Texas, I take the liberty of inclosing a memorandum of my observations while there, with the hope that it may serve in attracting the attention of the Government to the importance of that point. As the only brother of the rate General B. E. Bee, my name will not be unknown to you, and I can with pleasure refer you to Colonel Wigfall, Colonel Waul, and Judge Hemphill as to the great interest I have at stake, both politically and personally, in the success of our cause.

With great respect,

HAMILTON P. BEE.

[Inclosure.]

Brownsville is 30 miles from the Gulf-Brazos Island is its port; depth of water 6 feet. The mouth of the Rio Grande has still less water on its bar.

Fort Brown was built by General Taylor for attack on Matamoras, and is of but little use for defense of Brownsville, as an enemy could without difficulty take possession of it without coming under fire from the fort, whose guns could destroy it in an hour. The fort has been repaired by Colonel Ford and is unfinished, but could in a short time be made as strong as earthworks generally are. There are twenty-five pieces of cannon of different caliber there, including a light battery, complete, with its caissons loaded, harness in good order, and ready for service in thirty minutes. The battery horses are poor and unserviceable, but in improving condition. About 300 rounds of ammunition for each piece, of the best description, and a good supply of powder and ball cartridges constitute the supply of ammunition. Lead can be bought in any quantity at 4 1/2 cents per pound. There is one 10-inch mortar, and no piece larger than a 24-pounder. There are now at Fort Brown four companies of cavalry (Texans), say 400 men in all.

Brownsville is the depot of the Mexican trade. In 1860 $12,000,000 in specie passed through the custom-house en route for the United States. The imports of goods, principally dry goods, is proportionately heavy. All that trade is now suspended. No direct shipments have arrived at Matamoras from foreign ports. Two vessels arrived there from New York while I was on the Rio Grande, both loaded with provisions and {p.119} necessary supplies. One of them was wrecked. The foreign merchants at Matamoras are English and German, and are friendly to our cause. No arrangements for direct importation have been made, owing to the unsettled state of opinion concerning the raising of the blockade. If it should not be raised, direct importation will follow.

The Mexicans are neutral. The officers, civil and military, profess and exhibit every desire to co-operate with us in maintaining peace and good order on the line, and have aided essentially in stopping the forays of Cortinas into Texas. The Mexican population on this side of the Rio Grande are quiet, but not to be relied on in case of invasion.

It is known that Lieutenant Langdon (artillery) and two cavalry officers, who were previously on this line and familiar with the country, are now at Fort Pickens. Two cavalry companies are said to be on Santa Rosa Island. They have all the information, and we may suppose the desire, to repossess themselves of that point.

The following reasons occur to my mind why the enemy will seek to reoccupy Fort Brown: The hope of recapturing the cannon and material of war; the opening of the Mexican trade to New York, which will throw millions of dollars into the industry of the North. The fact, beyond a question, that the reoccupation of that point will convert the neutrality of the Mexicans into hostility, then hatred and bitterness, is against us, not against the North. By virtue of commissions from the Lincoln authorities two or three thousand Mexican mounted guerrillas would be mustered into the service of the United States, to depredate and destroy the settlements even to the San Antonio River, thus destroying the stock interest of Western Texas.

My conclusions are that it is of the utmost importance to the Confederacy that Brownsville and the line of the Rio Grande should be held by them. Shut up and encompassed around as we are, it is the only point through which we can communicate with the nations of Europe. By proper encouragement every necessary supply, either for our Government or people, can be brought to Matamoras from abroad, and we have no other outlet so long as the supremacy of the seas is against us. It will keep quiet and neutral a large and in some respects an efficient force of a race embittered against us by real or imaginary wrongs dating back twenty years. By means of the steamboats now at Brownsville the enemy could transport a force to Ringgold Barracks, and thence, by forced marches over a good road, be at San Antonio in twelve days-leaving no enemy in their rear, but; on the contrary, a willing and useful ally, to keep up their line of communication. It is the most feasible way to invade Texas. Brownsville should be defended or given up at once, and the cannon withdrawn while yet there is time. It will be too late when the enemy lands. A few men thousand men-cannot defend it; they will only be caught in a trap; there will be no way of retreat. The gloomy desert of sand between the Rio Grande and Nueces will lose us the cannon. The enemy will hardly land with less than 10,000 men. The material of war there is worth its weight in gold to our cause. It will be lost within two months unless a strong force is sent there for its protection. An officer who speaks the Mexican language and understands the people should be appointed to the command. If he is wise and watchful, he will keep the peace with Mexico and make her people useful friends. Supplies of all sorts for the troops can be got in Brownsville except bacon or pork.

HAMILTON P. BEE.

P. S.-I omitted to say that the above points were submitted to General Van Dorn some months since in a more detailed form by Col. J. S. Ford, commanding at Fort Brown.

{p.120}

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WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, October 13, 1861.

Gov. EDWARD CLARK Austin, Tex.:

SIR: The very great pressure on my time and the absorption of all my energies in the attempt suddenly to direct the operations of this Department on the resignation of General Walker will furnish an apology that I trust you find satisfactory for my delay in replying to your two favors of 7th and 14th ultimo. I appreciate to the fullest extent the zealous and hearty co-operation of yourself and your generous fellow-citizens in the effort fully to supply clothing for our troops in the field.

After maturely considering the various modes suggested, it occurs to me that the simplest and best plan is for the State of Texas to clothe her own troops, under rules and regulations to be executed by her own officers, and to receive the commutation of $25 for every six months’ clothing furnished to each man, according to the act of Congress of 30th August last, and which cannot have reached you at the date of your letters. I have prepared regulations on this subject, now in press, and in a day or two, when I get them from the printers, will furnish you a copy. If your State will, under these regulations, furnish her own troops, in whole or in part, it will greatly relieve our labors, that are now taxing with the utmost severity all our energies.

Please inform me as soon as you get my printed circular whether you will do this. If not, could you not have the wool manufactured at your penitentiary and sell it to us at a fair value, which we will cheerfully pay? State agency in all these matters is much more effective than our own, and I desire, as far as I possibly can, to avoid the multiplication of Confederate officers and agencies.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

J. P. BENJAMIN, Acting Secretary of War.

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HEADQUARTERS, Doña Aña, Ariz., October 14, 1861.

Col. H. E. MCCULLOCH:

SIR: Please find inclosed a copy of a letter received at my headquarters to-day. It embraces a correct account of the present critical condition of the citizens and miners in that region of the Territory which includes the locality of the Pinos Altos and other important mines of Arizona. The most important and available to the Confederacy are under the sway of Indians. I am at present unable to render the necessary assistance, although I have ordered Maj. E. Waller to proceed thither and render what aid he could with a detachment of 100 men. He left for the Pinos Altos mines on the 10th instant.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

JOHN R. BAYLOR, Lieut. Col. Comdg. Second Reg’t T. M. R., P. C. S. Army.

[Inclosure.]

PINOS ALTOS, October 8, 1861.

To the COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF Of the Confederate Troops in Arizona Territory:

DEAR SIR: A few days since the majority of the citizens of this place addressed you a petition. However, many of those that gave {p.121} their signature promising to remain here, in order to keep up the place, deserted us cowardly by a train that left yesterday for Mesilla.

The undersigned having been elected captain of the Minute Company organized amongst our citizens to defend our diggings against the Indians (conjointly with the Arizona Guards, stationed here) yesterday held a meeting, and found that about 70 miners remained here, only half of which are armed. We are determined to defend this place to the last, and could easily do so if we could stay in one body; but the diggings are such that only a few men can work at one place, and as the miners now left occupy merely a narrow space of ground, but running about 1 mile up Bear Creek, the other gulches having been abandoned for the want of a sufficient number of miners, therefore the Indians are liable to attack the dispersed miners at any time, and, until we can rally our small number of armed men to meet the enemy, they may murder our miners again before we can save them; and as we are not numerous enough to pursue the Indians, they may resume their attacks almost every day with impunity, and annoy our miners to such an extent that they will have to stop working, and consequently, not being able to earn our living, necessity would make us leave here, even against our will.

If it is in your power to send a sufficient number of mounted men here that would pursue the Indians to their hiding places and make our roads safe again, this place would soon have a large population again, and you would save a place from desertion which at no distant day will become the most important of Arizona, as soon as our rich diggings, gold and silver mines, can be worked with safety for capital. Should you not be able to send more troops at present, you would help us greatly by sending thirty or forty muskets to the commander of the Arizona Guards here, who would distribute them to our unarmed miners with good security for their return when recalled, and thereby we will defend ourselves until you can give us more protection and commence your operations against the savages. I am confident that you will do all in your power for our safety and protection in our dangerous position.

I remain, most respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. MARKT, Captain Minute Men.

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RICHMOND, October 15, 1861.

Col. H. E. MCCULLOCH, Comdg., &c., San Antonio, Tex.:

SIR: In answer to the recommendations of Major Maclin, of the 17th ultimo, forwarded by you with indorsement, you are respectfully informed that the Quartermaster-General reports that orders were given a month ago to the officers of that department in Texas to procure the necessary clothing for the troops in that State.

Very respectfully,

R. H. CHILTON, Assistant Adjutant-General.

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MILITARY DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, Galveston, Tex., October 16, 1861.

His Excellency EDWARD CLARK, Governor of Texas:

SIR: I have the honor to acknowledge the reception of your excellency’s communications of the 10th* and 12th instant, both of which reached me yesterday.

{p.122}

Col. W. H. Parsons, Fourth Regiment Texas Volunteer Cavalry, having by letter and through the major of his regiment this day expressed a strong preference for service in the State, I have ordered his regiment to be mustered into service at Spring Creek, near Hempstead. In regard to the other regiments, it is, perhaps, advisable, in view of the position of General McCulloch and the urgency of his call, that they should be mustered into service under the authority granted to Colonel Young. Any other divisions of those regiments might perhaps seriously interfere with the plans of the War Department, of which, however, I am not advised, and under the authority I could not well entirely countermand orders emanating from the headquarters of the Army.

The heavy guns intended for Galveston are reported on the way, strung along the road from Alexandria to Niblett’s Bluff. Two or three of them are expected by the end of this or the beginning of next week. I have ordered them to be placed in battery as they arrive, and, as the number is limited, distributed to the best advantage. Owing, however, to the vast superiority of the naval armaments of the enemy and the almost defenseless state of the coast, the problem of defending it successfully with the means at our disposal is one of difficult, if not of impossible, solution. The enemy having complete possession of the seas, as in the days of our first revolution, we must fight this war as our forefathers did, and, I have full faith, as successfully.

With respectful salutations, I have the honor to be, your excellency’s very obedient servant,

P. O. HEBERT, Brigadier-General, Provisional Army.

* Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, San Antonio, October 17, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector General:

SIR: From the time I came to this place (2d September) cotton has been passing through it to Mexico. The quantity has been considerable, though not very great, but it has been increasing for the last three weeks, and I have just been informed by reliable persons that a much greater quantity has been and is still passing from Texas into Mexico by wagons on the route below this and by light-draught vessels that go through the bays and bayous along the coast to the mouth of the Rio Grande. Cotton is now worth twenty-two and twenty-three cents at New York, and I am satisfied that a large proportion of the cotton going into Mexico passes on to that and other Northern ports.

The policy of our Government is no doubt to prevent our cotton being shipped to the United States to sustain the manufacturing interests of our enemies. Under these circumstances how is it to be done, and can the military authority here do anything in it?

There is a large number of beef cattle now being purchased by persons for the market in Mexico. Such a thing has not been known in Texas for many years, and I think there is good reason to suppose that these cattle are for the benefit of the U. S. Army that are expected to come through Mexico either from California or by sea, and for the support of that portion of the Army in New Mexico. It seems to me that a proper regard for the safety of the country would justify the suspension of this trade for the present, or that those engaged in it should be {p.123} required to show that time produce is intended for the use of the people of Mexico only.

I am of the opinion that there are no custom-house officers of our Government on the Rio Grande. There should be officers at several points from El Paso to Brazos Santiago-say El Paso, Presidio del Norte, Eagle Pass or Fort Duncan, Laredo, Roma, Rio Grande City, Brownsville, and Point Isabel.

The subject of our trade and intercourse with Mexico is one of great importance to our Government, especially during this war, and no step should be hastily taken without proper consideration, and it is greatly to our interest that nothing should be done to interrupt the most liberal trade and intercourse with the people of that country, as far as it can be permitted with safety to our interests. I mention these articles and this manner of trade now progressing in order to inform the Government that the proper direction may be given respecting them.

It may seem strange that I am still writing as the commanding officer of this department at these headquarters, when it must be known to the Secretary of War that General Hébert is within the Department of Texas (at Galveston, where he has been for some weeks), but he has not published any order assuming command, or relieved me in any manner by which I could feel justified in leaving the office, to which, in consequence of my senior rank, I was assigned by order of the Secretary of War (Special Orders, No. 123), and the orders of General Van Dorn, copies of which I herewith inclose.* I mention this matter that I may not appear ridiculous in the eyes of the officers at the seat of Government.

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. E. MCCULLOCH, Colonel, C. S. Prov. Army, Comdg. Department of Texas.

* See August 14 and September 4 and 18, pp. 98, 101, 106, for orders in question.

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INDIANOLA, TEX., October 17, 1861.

General P. O. HEBERT, Comdg. Texas Division, Confederate Army, Galveston, Tex.:

DEAR SIR: There are two artillery companies, numbering about 180 men, stationed at Pass Cavallo, as a defense to the entrance into Matagorda Bay. Their armaments consist of four 24-pounders, two 12-pounders, and one 6-pounder cannon, with a supply of small-arms, but a limited supply of ammunition. They have thrown up temporary embankments of sand at a point some 200 or 300 yards southeast from the Pass Cavallo light-house, and placed their guns in battery. The approach inland from Lavaca and Indianola to this point is by water, there being two large bayous intervening on the land route-bayous over a hundred yards in width and from 10 to 15 feet in depth, and without ferries. In case of an attack on this point, for immediate assistance there could be mustered of the militia in Indianola and Lavaca one company each. It would require from six hours to two days for those companies to reach the post, depending entirely upon wind, tide, and the supply of boats that might be on hand, there being only small sail-boats now plying in the bay.

The Confederate forces now organizing at Victoria, together with the militia at that place, numbering in all at this time not exceeding 800 to 1,000 men, could not be transported on the railroad to Lavaca in {p.124} less than twelve hours, and thence to Saluria or this post in such time as favorable or unfavorable winds and tides might determine. Other re-enforcements would of course soon follow; but is it not prudent to suppose that if an attack be made upon this point of our coast it will be with a large and an invading force (a force susceptible of division), a portion landing below on the island and attacking us in the rear, while with their main body the enemy could pass up the channel, overwhelming our position with their superior numbers, and this, too, before re-enforcements could reach us. In view of these facts and suggestions, would it not be advisable to construct a good military road from Indianola to the Pass, providing ample and well-attended ferries on the large bayous (boats for this purpose can be had already built), and to construct bridges over the smaller ones? Would it not be prudent, as a measure of safety against surprise, to have Captain Beaumont’s cavalry company, which is now stationed at Victoria, removed to the island, to range as scouts down the coast, to cut off detached parties, should any land, and to give information of the movements of the enemy if he made his appearance below? In addition to the foregoing measures of prudence and safety, would it not render our defenses certain, or our retreat entirely safe, to have five companies of infantry, now in camp at Victoria, removed to the island? There they could drill as well as at Victoria. It is a healthy position, and provisions, fuel, and water can be had at slight advances on the present prices. In case of an attack, they could render immediate and efficient service, and, I apprehend, could reach as promptly any other point of attack on our coast as from Victoria. I think that Captain Pearson’s company, from Matagorda, and Captain Phillips’, from Lavaca, at least, should be required to return immediately to the coast whence they were taken. It does occur to me that the post should not only be strengthened, but that means of supplying it with re-enforcements should be provided, or that the position should be abandoned, and the guns, together with the forces, removed to Indianola or some other point, where assistance could with certainty reach them. The men we now have there will fight until there are none left to tell the story. But why imperil the lives of our brave men? Why place our armament of defense within reach of the enemy? Why keep up a mere show of defense when we really have none, the effect being only to cause the public mind to sleep in its insecurity? Captain Shea, commanding the post, I understand, has no authority to take action in the premises. Colonel McCulloch, I learn, declines making any changes until your arrival. Our people have been anxiously awaiting your presence at this point, and hence there is nothing being done. There is a heavy responsibility resting somewhere. Our lives and property are in danger. I realize the fact with painful anxiety. Hence I venture these suggestions, and, although we have no personal acquaintance, yet I apprehend that your position in the State, and the interest which I feel in the welfare of this particular section of our country, will render an apology for this communication unnecessary.

In conclusion, I have only to add that the suggestions which I have made are intended only to call your attention to the military condition of this section of country, and to urge you, if your whole time is occupied at Galveston and adjacent points, to appoint some person competent to the command, and with full authority to give directions to our defenses.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

D. M. STAPP, [Brigadier-General, Texas Militia.]

{p.125}

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GALVESTON, Tex., October 19, 1861.

General P. O. HEBERT, C. S. A., Comdg. Department of Texas:

GENERAL: I have the honor to state that, upon a critical investigation as to the most suitable points to station 10,000 troops, in view of subsisting them, as well as for the defense of this city, there should be in Galveston and Virginia Point, 5,000; at Magnolia, Clear Creek, and near the railroad, 2,000; at Spring Creek, near Millican, 2,000; at the State camp, near Harrisburg, 1,000. These troops, thus stationed, could protect the city, as well as the mouth of the Brazos, if necessary. I have already ordered Harrisburg to be made a depot for subsistence supplies, as well as forage for the quartermaster’s department. From the most reliable information I can obtain I have no doubt the troops can be subsisted without difficulty. There can be subsisted on the lower Rio Grande 5,000 troops-3,000 at Fort Brown and its vicinity; 1,000 at Ringgold Barracks; 500 at Fort McIntosh and vicinity, and 500 near Edinburg, 55 miles from Fort Brown. I propose making Ringgold Barracks, 120 miles from Fort Brown, a depot for the support of these troops.

With the view of making the different departments efficient, I propose Francis I. Lynch assistant quartermaster, Thomas N. Minter and James H. French commissaries, with the rank of captain, to be located at Harrisburg and Ringgold Barracks, whose duties shall be to keep the depots supplied. These officers, in addition to those already in the department, with suitable details from the line, will be sufficient.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

SACKFIELD MACLIN, Major, Confederate States Army, Acting Chief Q. M. and Com. of Sub., Dep’t of Texas.

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EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, Austin, Tex., October 22, 1861.

General P. O. HEBERT:

SIR: Your communication of the 16th instant was duly received. I am gratified that you have ordered Colonel Parsons, with his regiment, south. He was anxious to obtain service in Texas.

One object of my writing at this time is to procure, if possible, the acceptance of Colonel Locke’s regiment. From information just received I fear that he has taken up the line of march in the direction of the coast. If so, it has been done without orders from me, and I presume in consequence of advices given him by Colonel Parsons. Though the duty of the soldier is to await and obey orders, I am disposed to excuse his non-observance of this obligation, for the reason that they have promptly responded to my call for their services and are exceedingly anxious for service. This regiment would have gone to Missouri without hesitation, but are now of the opinion that Texas may need them; and, if so, they prefer to stay at home. I am aware that you do not desire a very large cavalry force, not more perhaps than you now have. It may occur, however, that you may need additional cavalry troops; and, indeed, I see through the papers that you are in some instances authorizing the raising of cavalry companies. Would it not suit your views to receive this regiment now, in expectancy of future contingencies? Might it not be well employed at Brownsville until the forces desired for that post be obtained? We have an extended seaboard, and, if invaded in that quarter, I should think a considerable cavalry force would be needed. It is now very {p.126} late, too, to send men to Missouri; and, for this reason and the probable necessity that comes upon us for our volunteers at home, I would be greatly gratified if you would accept this regiment, and request, if consistent with your opinions of duty and propriety, that you do so. In addition to the impracticability of their now going to Missouri I will state that they have been some time organized, and equipped themselves at considerable expense. Many of them have abandoned their employment to engage in their country’s service, and, if disappointed or disbanded, the consequences would be ruinous to them. Colonel Young’s regiment, as also that of Colonel Sims, I feel satisfied, from advices received, have been started to Missouri. While I do not wish to embarrass you, and by no means to control your operations, I sincerely desire and request that you have this regiment immediately put to service in Texas, if you can.

The impression has obtained, I find, that you have authorized the enlistment of men for six months. Within the last few days I have been repeatedly asked if such is the case. If you have done so, I suppose it results from your opinion of the necessities of our coast country. It is, however, having a bad effect upon any efforts to raise the required forces for Fort Brown and other points. Our people, though willing to serve as long as needed, desire the shortest term that can be obtained; and hence will not volunteer for the war while there is a chance to enlist for six or twelve months. You will not understand me as complaining of this course, for, if you have authorized it, I doubt not you have good reasons for it.

It is reported here that there is an intention of withdrawing the regiment of Colonel McCulloch from its position upon the frontier. While I attach very little consequence to this impression, I feel called upon, in justice to our frontier citizens, to request that it may not be done. I feel apprehensive that we may in the future have more trouble from Indians than we have had for several months, and I should therefore feel very unwilling to see this regiment taken away. It has been upon that line of frontier for nearly one year, and is, or should be, better suited for its protection than any new forces that could be placed there. I trust that the opinion of your intention to withdraw it is incorrect, and that that border may not be deprived of its presence and protection.

I trust that you have by this time received the cannon expected from Richmond, and that they are, or will soon be, ready for service. Should you be attacked at Galveston, which I hope will not be the case, I greatly desire to have it in my power to be present.

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, &c.,

EDWARD CLARK.

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MILITARY DEPARTMENT OF TEXAS, Galveston, Tex., October 24, 1861.

Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: My duties have been of so pressing a nature at this post and on the Gulf coast that I have not as yet been able to repair to San Antonio, the headquarters of the department.

In a former communication I had the honor to advise the Department of the difficulties under which I labored, for want of funds, guns, and ammunition, in endeavoring to place this post and other points on the seaboard in a respectable state of defense. The guns available are limited in number and of inferior caliber to those likely to be brought against us by the enemy. The few heavy guns ordered from Richmond {p.127} are now on the route between Alexandria and the Sabine River. Much difficulty has been experienced in the transportation of these guns across the country-so much so, that the time of their reaching this point is very indefinite. I have dispatched an efficient person, with the necessary appliances, to assist the agent of the quartermaster’s department of New Orleans in the transportation.

In view of the fact that, owing to the superior naval armaments of the enemy and his entire possession of the sea, it will be almost impossible to prevent a landing at some point upon this extensive and unprotected coast, I have settled upon it as a military necessity that he must be fought on shore or in the interior. To do this an army must be raised, organized, and armed with such weapons as can be procured. I have in consequence already authorized and called into service several volunteer regiments, for the war when practicable, and for twelve months when necessary. The State having already been pretty well exhausted of the young material willing to engage for the war, there is a necessity of resorting to twelve-months’ enlistments.

After mature deliberation I consider that a volunteer force of about 15,000 men should without delay be called into service, and of this the Rio Grande frontier will need some 3,000 or 4,000. Time pressing, and the means of communication with the headquarters of the Government being slow and uncertain, I shall proceed, until further orders from the War Department, to raise and organize this force, if possible, from the State, arming and equipping it as efficiently as the me