CHAPTER XVIII.
OPERATIONS IN MISSOURI, ARKANSAS. KANSAS, AND THE INDIAN TERRITORY.
November 19, 1861-April 10, 1862.
(New Madrid, Island No. 10, Pea Ridge)
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CONFEDERATE CORRESPONDENCE.

{p.683}

HEADQUARTERS, *Pocahontas, Ark., November [10], 1861.

Maj. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, C. S. A., Comdg. First Division, Western Department, Columbus, Ky.:

GENERAL: Since my dispatch of the night of the 5th I have continued my steps of precaution and preparation for defense without intermission. Details in respect to them are at present unnecessary.

{p.684}

My call upon the militia for re-enforcements has been responded to with spirit and alacrity, but, as was to have been expected, in a manner somewhat tumultuous, and in no light degree troublesome in disposing of the forces thus furnished. By last evening something more than 1,000 men had assembled here, and about an equal number reported themselves in several more distant neighborhoods as assembled and awaiting instructions. By that time I learned from my scouts that the enemy had ceased to advance and were probably falling back a little. Finding that I was thus allowed more time for preparation, and that the militiamen, as well those who had arrived here as those on the way had left home so hurriedly as to be very ill-supplied with arms, deemed it best to direct them to return home, and there organize, arm, and prepare for service as well and as speedily as possible, and having done this, as they will be able in a day or so, and reported, to await my orders, with the exception of about 100, who are sufficiently prepared here. They have all followed this direction, to an extent at least to assure me that within a week from this day I shall have within three days’ march of this place at least 3,000, probably more, men at my command, and as well prepared for service as the means of the country will allow; by which I mean that while every man will be armed with some sort of a gun-for I will have no others-yet they will be far from uniform in this respect, and many will be rather poorly armed, owing to the scarcity of guns of every kind, and especially of good ones, in this part of the country.

Companies thus organized and prepared I have agreed to receive into the service for thirty days from the time they report to me, to be subject to my orders during that time. I adopted this course and this term for these reasons: 1st, Within that time, if at all, it seems obvious to me I shall have to engage the enemy here or hereabouts; 2d, It is the only source from which I can calculate on re-enforcements of any kind within that time; 3d, Without such re-enforcements the handful of troops I have here is wholly inadequate to resist such a force as we know the enemy have in striking distance and as there can be no doubt they will bring against me if they come at all; 4th, I have made neither preparation nor calculation for a retreat, that being out of the question, as it would open our State to invasion, the very thought of which is not to be entertained for a moment, there not being one among my little band who does not feel that in holding this place he is holding the very door to his own domicile, within which are wife, children, and friends, and who would not deem himself criminal, as well as craven, if he could weigh his own life against the importance of maintaining it; 5th, within that time you will be able to order what other and better course should be pursued.

Of the forces under my command I briefly report-for there are so few of them that a brief report will cover them easily-

1. My own cavalry regiment, seven companies, number 460, and are stationed for purposes of observation, convenience of supplies, &c., between this and Pitman’s Ferry, with several companies at and near the ferry, throwing forward scouts, &c. In this service it is very constantly occupied and has been all summer and fall, until pretty well used up.

2. Colonel McCown’s five companies of infantry (raw troops), men and officers, number 378, indifferently armed and but slightly trained.

3. Major Desha’s four companies infantry number 238, in the same condition as McCown’s.

This is my whole permanent force. In addition, for this emergency, {p.685} I have stopped here in passing and retain for the present Captain Roberts’ company, about 60 men, nominally artillery, but without a battery, but armed and pretty well drilled as infantry, and about 150 recruits for the army, brought here by Major McCray and Captains White and Kykendall, and retained here by me, as is Captain Roberts’ company; altogether about 1,286 men. Of these, owing to much sickness, casualties, necessary details for guards, nurses, &c., as you will readily apprehend, I cannot, as I have ascertained by careful examination, count on more than 600 for fighting service. All even of these must be regarded as raw, inexperienced, and poorly disciplined, and indifferently armed. I may say that I have no artillery, for, although there are six pieces-four iron 6-pounders and two brass 4-pounders-here, they were repudiated by General Hardee as worthless, and are, so far as I can judge, quite so for any active or reliable service. They are so ill mounted, &c., that they cannot be used at all for flying artillery. In my destitution of such things and for this emergency, however, I shall do what I can with them by placing them in positions to cover the approaches to this place; and as Captain Roberts is the only officer here who knows anything at all about artillery, I have put him in charge of them.

I have in the first part of this letter said all I need say about the probable militia re-enforcements.

As to the supplies here, the amount of which seems to have been greatly exaggerated to you-mentioned by you in one of your letters as probably $500,000 worth-though I am satisfied not more than one-half perhaps not more than one-third of that, I have not deemed it necessary or proper to remove them lower down the river, for the reason that I don’t intend to abandon the place, and if we are to perish for the want of the timely aid that ought to have been given us if retained here at all, we will all, men and supplies, perish together; the enemy shall never have them.

I have been unable to hear from General Thompson since my last dispatch to you of the night of the 5th, though at that time and the night after I wrote to him. My messengers ought to have returned last night, but I have no news of them. Reports are here, I know not how reliable, that he has either had an engagement with the enemy at or near Bloomfield or that upon their approach he has retired south and east. If I don’t hear from him by to-morrow morning I will send again to ascertain.

Inclosed I send you a militia order and the proclamation of the Governor of Arkansas.** To the latter I invite your attention. It looks well enough on paper that I am to have so large an auxiliary force, but you need not be told that it gives nothing at all for present purposes, and promises only what will be received, if at all, in small portions at a time and a good while hence.

MONDAY MORNING, November 11.

I had written so far last night when reports reached me that induced me to pause until something more reliable should come from my scouts in time for this dispatch. At 1.30 o’clock this morning a dispatch from my outpost at Pitman’s Ferry, 20 miles north, to this effect:

The scouts send in word that they have reliable intelligence that there are 300 infantry and 150 cavalry at Rives’ Station, on Black River, 35 miles north of Pitman’s {p.686} Ferry Also that there is a strong infantry force-7,000-at Greenville, 15 miles north of Rives’ Station.

This is confirmatory of the previous reports during the day, so far as it is reliable. Allowance must of course be made for natural exaggerations, &c., and I am doing all I can to ascertain the truth, and prepare as well as I can for whatever it may prove to be.

Not hearing from General Thompson, I have dispatched an intelligent and trusty messenger on the best route to that officer to learn what I can.

I am not without hope, of course, that what I have done and the views I here add will meet your approval, viz, that what force I have here is wholly insufficient for any useful purpose of either attack or defense, but only a provocation, and, coupled with the supplies here, an inducement to the enemy to attack us. It seems obvious to my mind that if any force at all is to be kept here or on this line it ought to be at least three if not four times as large as it is. Either make it strong enough to sustain itself or abandon it altogether. Arkansas has some twenty-two regiments in the field and some nineteen of them are in other States, while next to none are left to defend her own frontier where most exposed.

If these views are not approved I respectfully suggest that I be superseded in command over here at once. It would indeed, it seems to me, be better to do this anyway, by sending some one of the brigadier-generals to take charge. It is a brigadier’s command, and should be his responsibility, which I am daily growing more and more distrustful of my competency to sustain. Besides, indications of failing health admonish me that the public interests here would be better provided for by other and abler hands.

In haste, but from careful consideration of all I have said, I have the honor to be, most respectfully, your obedient servant,

SOLON BORLAND, Colonel, Commanding.

* Original received too late for insertion in Series I, Vol. III.

** Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS SPRINGFIELD, MO., November 19, 1861. (Via Little Rock, November 26.)

J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War:

SIR: I shall return to Arkansas, put my troops in winter quarters soon, and ask permission to come immediately to Richmond, so as to give to the administration correct information regarding affairs in this region before it acts on matters here. The Federals left eight days since with their [1] thousand men, quarreling among themselves, and greatly injured their cause by taking negroes belonging to Union men. General Lane went to Kansas, General Hunter to Sedalia, and General Sigel to Rolla.

I have the honor to be, with respect your obedient servant,

BEN. MCCULLOCH, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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LITTLE ROCK, November 20, 1861.

Hon. J. P. BENJAMIN:

Arkansas is arming the twelve-months’ troops raised under your requisition to me for McCulloch. There is a battalion at this point. {p.687} Shall send it to Borland’s command at Pocahontas, where there is trouble. Must they go to McCulloch, as originally intended?

H. M. RECTOR.

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HEADQUARTERS, Pocahontas Ark., November 20, 1861.

Col. W. W. MACKALL, A. A. G., Western Dept., C. S. Army, Bowling Green, Ky.:

COLONEL: Yours of the 4th, by mail, missent to Powhatan and forwarded from that office, was received last night.

You communicate the direction of General Johnston that I shall send my “surplus ammunition and supplies to Memphis.”

I can briefly answer this by saying that I have no surplus here of either class of these stores. But it is proper I should add that an exaggerated and somewhat extraordinary misapprehension seems to exist in the minds of our generals, particularly in that of General Polk, as expressed in one of his letters, as to the amount of ammunition and subsistence stores at this place, estimating it as he does at some half million of dollars. The precise amount of either class I cannot ascertain as soon as it seems proper to dispatch this communication, but I will send statements as soon as they can be made out; and in the mean time do not hesitate to express the opinion that there is not more than one-fourth, even if there be as much as a fifth, of that amount.

So far from having a surplus of ammunition (except it may be of some one or two kinds, for which I have no suitable guns), I am sorry to have to say that my supply is rather short. If all that General Hardee left here had been kept here and of good quality I should not have had more than enough; but the nominal amount of that is considerably reduced by the damaged condition in which a good deal of it came here, and still further, just before I returned here, by the shipment of some 200 boxes of the best to Memphis by order of General Hardee. I doubt, however, if this lot has reached General Hardee at all, or, if so, it was probably very badly damaged; for although it reached Memphis several days before I left there, it was at the time of my leaving still on the wharf where it had first been landed, without covering of any kind, and exposed to several hard rains. The master of the steamer Kanawha Valley, who had carried it there, informed me that he had tried in vain to get some attention to it from the quartermaster and ordnance offices. I wrote from Memphis to General Hardee about this.

I beg leave to add a few words about my position, &c., here. I think General Johnston will concede that it is a very precarious one in itself, and I know it is a very embarrassing one to me. As he is aware (at any rate I so informed him at Columbus), the force left here (i.e., Pitman’s Ferry, &c.) by General Hardee was very small, so small that, as I have all the while insisted, it was available for no useful purpose whatever, either of attack or defense, against such as the enemy certainly had the power and would not fail to bring against me if I should have to deal with him at all. This is obvious from the following statement of its character and numerical strength: It consisted, first, of seven mounted companies-nominally 460 men-indifferently armed, and much enfeebled by the hardest and most constant scouting service to which any troops were ever subjected, through an exceedingly {p.688} sickly season, and on little more than half rations for man or horse; and, second, of two companies of infantry, about 130 men, just mustered into the service, and indifferently armed. To these have since been added eight companies of similar infantry, numbering about 500 men; and within the last few days I have added still a little further by retaining two and a half companies, together about 150 men, that were passing here. All these together, 1,240 men, being twelve-months’ volunteers, with officers and men alike raw and inexperienced, poorly armed and equipped, and without an educated or experienced military man in the whole command. No cannon were left me, or what are no better than none; that is, six iron 6-pounders and two brass 4-pounders, all old, partly dismantled and dilapidated, and without equipment for transportation or active use, and all rejected as worthless and cast aside by General Hardee. Of the nominal force I have enumerated, making by no means an unfair allowance for sick, details, &c., 700 would fully cover the number I could count upon for the field.

Thus situated, on the 5th instant I found my position threatened by the enemy with some 400 cavalry and not less (I had some reason to believe much more) than 3,000 infantry and a battery of artillery, reported on good authority (since proved to be true) to be within 60 miles of me and marching rapidly in this direction. This has since proved to have been one of the several columns moved simultaneously from Cairo upon Columbus, from Cape Girardeau upon Bloomfield, and from Ironton upon this place.

As now ascertained, the fate of Columbus, upon the result of which doubtless the others depended, caused them to fall back, how far is not yet known with certainty, but supposed to be to their respective starting points; circumstances warranting the expectation that their southward movement will be repeated as soon as the terms of concert can be again arranged, unless forestalled by an early setting in of such winter weather as shall make the roads impracticable-a contingency too uncertain to be relied upon where interests so vital are at stake.

Thus situated, and feeling that this position is the door into our State-which in turn is a large portion of the right bank of the Mississippi-and that in holding it I was holding the very door of our domiciles, within which were wives, children, and friends, I dared not think of abandoning it, although with the force then at my command it were little better than madness to expect to do more than sacrifice every man of us in a conflict so unequal. This I resolved upon and so announced to my men, and I have no reason to doubt that I had their unanimous and cordial concurrence.

But, not to be desperate as well as determined, I instantly called for the only help then possible in reach-the militia of the adjacent country. This call was promptly responded to with some spirit, but in a manner so hurried, inconsiderate, and tumultuous-throwing in upon me an unorganized and generally unarmed crowd of some 1,500 men within two or three days. Finding this crowd unavailable in the condition in which they came, and the result of the affair at Columbus having temporarily at least warded off the threatened attack upon me, I dispensed with the militia as such and called for volunteers, organized into companies, for thirty days’ service, receiving none that are not properly organized, armed with serviceable guns, suitably equipped, clothed, &c. I fixed thirty days as the term of service, for the reason, 1st, that it would bring me the largest amount of force in the shortest time; 2d, that term would cover the period at which we would probably be attacked, if at all, as by the middle of December the weather, {p.689} roads, &c., would have made active movements of any extent impracticable; 3d, that within that time General Polk, to whom I at once dispatched an account* of my situation, could issue such orders in respect to it as he might deem best. Under this call I have received up to this time eleven companies of infantry and one of mounted gunners, numbering together about 700 men; and there are reported to me as on the way, to be here within a day or so, some four more companies, say 300 men.

It is not for me to do more than thus make known to General Johnston my situation, not doubting that he will order what is right to the extent of his power. But I trust it will not be deemed out of place to say to him that my situation here is very embarrassing. It is a brigadier-general’s command and should be his responsibility, needing not only the capability of a commander of the qualifications suited to that rank, but the advantage to the public service which the prestige of that rank confers. I do not wish that place for myself. I did once, but in all sincerity I do not now, greatly preferring to return to my regiment or even go into the ranks. I hope, therefore, some one of suitable rank will be ordered to relieve me at once. The public interest requires it.

Very respectfully,

SOLON BORLAND, Colonel Cavalry, Commanding.

* See Borland to Polk, November 10, 1861, p. 653

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 34.}

HDQRS. FIRST Dry., WESTERN DEPT., Columbus, Ky., November 21, 1861.

Captain Gray is directed to remove the grins from the fortifications at Island No. 10 as soon as he thinks best and place them in the works under construction at New Madrid, and move Captain Stewart’s company of artillery to that place to man them.

By order of Brigadier-General Pillow, commanding:

GUS. A. HENRY, JR., Assistant Adjutant-General.

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SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 36.}

HDQRS. FIRST DIV., WESTERN DEPT., Columbus, Ky., November 22, 1861.

Colonel Smith’s regiment of Arkansas Volunteers will be placed and encamped on Island No. 10. He will procure the necessary spades, picks, and other implements, and build the battery laid off by Captain Gray, of the Engineer Corps. The work will be constructed under the direction of Captain Gray, who is now at New Madrid. Captain Gray will carry on both works at the same time. Colonel Smith will make his requisitions for supplies of subsistence, &c., upon Memphis and of the country around. He must, as far as possible, issue and use beef. The supply of salt meat in the country being about exhausted, he can issue salt meat two days per week.

By order of Brig. Gen. Gideon J. Pillow:

GUS. A. HENRY, JR., Assistant Adjutant-General. {p.690}

SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 234.}

ADJT. AND INSP. GENERAL’S OFFICE, Richmond, Va., November 22, 1861.

...

7. The Indian country west of Arkansas and north of Texas is constituted the Department of Indian Territory, and Brig. Gen. Albert Pike, Provisional Army, is assigned to the command of the same. The troops of this department will consist of the several Indian regiments raised or yet to be raised within the limits of the department.

...

By command of the Secretary of War:

JNO. WITHERS, Assistant Adjutant-General.

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HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, WESTERN DEPARTMENT, Columbus, Ky., November 23, 1861.

General THOMPSON:

GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to express his gratification on the receipt of your dispatch,* and to say that he desires you to keep your command well in hand, and to continue your works at New Madrid, with a view to holding that point securely in our possession. He wishes me to urge upon you the necessity of having the slaves now employed there sent every evening to the Tennessee side of the river after the completion of their daily labor. The general wishes you to keep your scouts well out.

I am, general, yours,

[Signed by some one of General Pillow’s staff.]

* See Thompson to Pillow, November 16, 1861, Series I, Vol. III, p. 740.

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HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION MISSOURI STATE GUARD, Camp New Madrid, Mo., November 23, 1861.

Col. W. G. PHEELAN, Commanding Second Regiment, Camp Blanton, Mo.:

DEAR COLONEL: Yours of this morning, by Major Powers, is at hand.* I am sorry to hear so bad an account of your men, and hope that you will instill more patriotism, patience, and obedience into them. They are not suffering more than any of the other regiments; in fact much less, because they are as well provided for and are within a few miles of home, where they can hear from their families daily; whereas the brave men from Cass, Bollinger, Ripley, Washington, &c., are here, equally exposed and remote from their friends. Our terms of enlistment will now soon expire, and, in the reorganization, I hope that we will not find so many home-sick men. If you have not plenty of wood and straw where you are you might move a few miles to where such things can be had; but upon no consideration should you go far from the west end of the Blanton road. I admire the patriotism that you and Kitchen displayed in being willing to sacrifice your property for the public, but I cannot compliment either your discretion or judgment in pressing the occupation of Bloomfield with a small force at this time. As soon as the fort is completed here and the grand march {p.691} of the enemy either made or deferred for the winter I will endeavor to have troops sent here, and then, if I can get forage and subsistence, I will take the whole command to Bloomfield, so that I can drive in all small parties of the enemy from the Saint Francis to Little River and occasionally threaten their strongholds at Cape Girardeau and Ironton; or if the winter sets in, so that troops cannot be marched from the Cape, I may trust a small force at Bloomfield; but now it is certainly north of our van of operations, and will only tempt the enemy instead of intimidating him. You have certainly found out by this time that there are many tories in Stoddard County, and the enemy has no difficulty in finding out all about your position and strength.

You can inform your men for me that I am fighting for the “cause,” and not for Stoddard County alone, and that, if they attempt to mutiny or desert, it can but result to their injury. I am disposed to be as lenient as possible, and from my very heart I sympathize with them in their hardships; but the whole country is now at stake, and the next few days will end the campaign for the winter, and even now it is getting to be a war of endurance instead of a war of guns, and, if our men are to be withered by the first cold breeze and return from the field the first windy night, then, indeed, will the energy of the North succeed, and we will have to “hang our harp on the willow tree.”

I will make every effort to expedite the paying off of the men and arrange for the transfer to the Confederate States; then all who want to go home can do so and stay there. I send you by Major Powers an assortment of muster and pay rolls. The muster and pay rolls should be made for the 1st of November, at which time the Confederate States commence paying us. The pay rolls will embrace the time up to November 1. I am printing a general order about our settlements, which will be out soon. Any explanation you desire will be cheerfully made. There will be a large lot of goods here in a few days; some we have now. Make your men cut lots of wood and run large camp-fires. Send over the gunsmith’s tools which you have not issued. I will establish a shop here. If your doctors are giving leaves of absence to men who are not sick, or if those who have recovered do not return, report them to me.

Yours, truly,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

* Not found.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, Camp New Madrid, Mo., November 24, 1861.

Col. SOLON BORLAND, C. S. A., Commandant, Pocahontas, Ark.:

DEAR SIR: Yours of the 17th instant, by Mr. McDowell, was handed me this day, and it affords me much pleasure to accept your invitation and write to you upon the impression I have of the policy of the enemy at that time. I really think that their whole efforts should be (and therefore will be) concentrated to the seaboard and the immediate valley of the Mississippi. They cannot make their soldiers go on a winter campaign through a hostile country when they know that we have the sympathy of the people and every advantage. Their force will be soldiers who will come to stay and will have to transport their entire subsistence for a campaign, whereas our forces, to combat or {p.692} out them off would require only a haversack to where the enemy would require a wagon. There might be a column pass from Cape Girardeau down to the end of the plank road and across here, to endeavor to cut me off; but unless Columbus was taken at the same time and the boats of the United States assist them here they would be assuredly cut off themselves.

Demonstration of parties of Home Guards, and such like, may be made between Black and Saint Francis Rivers; but I doubt it very much if a column will attempt it before spring. A party of gentlemen came in this evening from Fredericktown, and report that the troops are nearly all gone from Ironton, and that it is proposed to entirely evacuate that post. I do not believe this latter part, although I think there is no doubt about the former, as immense forces are being concentrated on the Ohio and near Cairo. If the Iron Mountain Railroad is not destroyed Ironton can easily be held; but if I can make another foray up there while the troops are below Saint Louis I can completely destroy it, and thus Ironton must be abandoned. If the winter is open I intend to keep the field with my cavalry and harm them all I can. Our terms of enlistment expire in a few days, and the most of our troops will be mustered into the service of the Southern Confederacy. What will become of me in the change I do not know. If I am held as a brigadier I intend to raise a regiment of dragoons, which I can do in ten days, and then, if not held back by some old fogy, the enemy will have to “stand from under;” for I worked up this time, and will fight up, if it has to be done over.

We are building a fort here that will hold 10,000 men, and will build redans and redoubts enough to effectually defend the place if we have time enough. We had 500 negroes at work and will increase the number to 700 to-morrow.

Immense works have been built at Columbus and constant labor is still employed. It will soon be a perfect Gibraltar, and if the enemy do not start soon it will be too late. Rumor says the whole force of the enemy is to be concentrated upon East Tennessee before the river move is made. This will certainly be good policy, if the transportation is safe enough to bring them back in time for the march down the valley. I think, however, that a good snow will cool their ardor and give us rest until spring and probably give us peace. I am very anxious to get back to Stoddard County, but cannot leave here yet. If the movement is made toward East Tennessee I will immediately go across the swamps; and, if you will help me, we will give the railroad another trial, or I will make a dash at Cape Girardeau to capture a few blankets, &c. I would be pleased to hear from you often, and, as our operations lie in the same direction, I hope we can have a perfect understanding and concert of action.

Hoping I have not exceeded the limits of your invitation and written too long a letter, I remain, yours, most respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, Camp New Madrid, Mo., November 24, 1861-9 p.m.

Brig. Gen. GIDEON J. PILLOW, Columbus, Ky.:

DEAR GENERAL: You will find inclosed a note from Major Kalfus,* {p.693} who has charge of my vedettes near the Cairo and Charleston Railroad, which may be of interest to you. The major is a cool-headed man, and knows all the people in Mississippi County, and probably his information is reliable. If a demonstration is made for us on East Tennessee, it can be but to return as speedily as possible to the march down the immediate valley of the Mississippi, for the enemy cannot make a winter campaign away from center means of transportation. The fort that is being built here, with the addition of a strong redoubt, near the saw-mill, will very completely defend this place. The redoubts will defend the bayou and from a column westward toward or beyond the seminary, to which point the fort can throw shot or shell without a house intervening. The fort is being built in the corn field just south of town. If you do not get the Saint Louis newspapers regularly, I will make an arrangement to furnish you from here. I can get them from Charleston.

Yours, most respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

* Not found.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, New Madrid, Mo., November 25, 1861.

Capt. J. J. EDSON, Steamboat Ohio Belle:

SIR: I have been directed by the major-general commanding to make provision for moving the slaves belonging to the gentlemen of Missouri and Arkansas to the Tennessee side of the river each night; and, as it is absolutely necessary that the slaves and their masters should also have sufficient and comfortable quarters, I conceive it to be my duty to order you to remain here until the case shall be laid before the general at Columbus and keep the negroes on board.

Yours, respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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RICHMOND, November 25, 1861.

Gov. H. M. RECTOR, Little Rock:

It is believed to be the best policy to send all the troops raised under requisition from this Government to General McCulloch.*

J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War.

* See Rector to Benjamin, November 20, p. 686.

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CIRCULAR.]

HEADQUARTERS Mo. S. G., November 25, 1861.

1st. The Confederate Government proposes, in accordance with the terms of the treaty recently made between this State and that Government, to receive into its service as many troops from Missouri as may volunteer to serve for twelve months.

2d. The troops thus volunteering will be enlisted as State troops, and remain under the immediate command of Major-General Price.

3d. They will be organized in conformity to the laws of Congress and the regulations for the Confederate Army as follows:*

{p.694}

4th. Election and appointment of officers.-Company officers: Each company elects its captain and lieutenants. The captain of each company selects the sergeants, corporals, musicians, and artificers from his company, and they receive their warrants from the colonel upon his approval of the appointments.

Regimental officers: The commissioned officers of each regiment elect the colonel, lieutenant-colonel, and major.

The colonel appoints the adjutant from the lieutenants of the regiment, and the sergeant-major and quartermaster-sergeant from the enlisted men.

The President will, upon the colonel’s recommendation, appoint whenever their services are required, an assistant quartermaster and assistant commissary, a surgeon and assistant surgeon, for each regiment.

5th. Whenever a sufficient number of troops shall have been thus enlisted, organized, armed, and equipped the muster rolls will be sent to the Secretary of War, and the troops will thereby be transferred to the Confederate Army. The President will immediately commission the officers and provide for and pay the troops. The President will at the same time organize the troops thus transferred into brigades and divisions, over which he will appoint brigadier-generals and a major-general from Missouri.

6th. The term of service will begin from the day of the organization of the company and will end twelve months after that date.

7th. The officers will be commissioned in the Confederate Army and their commissions be dated upon the day of their transfer to that service.

8th. Pay, &c.-Until the troops shall have been transferred to the Confederate States they will be paid by the State-the Confederate States guaranteeing, however, that they will be paid. As soon as the transfer shall have been made they will be paid and supplied by the Confederate States. The troops in the Confederate service are paid at the end of every second month.

The delivery of the muster rolls by the State to the Secretary of War completes the transfer.

The State will pay a bounty of $39 to every non-commissioned officer and private who will enlist in this service.

9th. Each enlisted man will receive one ration a day and an allowance of $25 every six months for clothing.

Each man will be allowed 10 cents a mile for his traveling expenses from the place of his enrollment to the rendezvous, and also from the place of his discharge to the place where he was enrolled.

10th. The cavalry must furnish their own horses and keep them serviceable or they will be compelled to serve on foot. The non-commissioned officers and privates will, however, be allowed 40 cents a day for the use of their horses, to be computed from the day of their enrollment to the day of their discharge, and also for every 20 miles of travel between the place of their discharge to the place of their enrollment. Horses are to be valued when brought into the service, and if killed in action will be paid for at such valuation. They will not be paid for in any other event.

11th. All arms will be paid for at a fair valuation, but will not be taken from the owner so long as he remains in the service. The commander of the company will, however, be responsible for their safekeeping.

12th. The Confederate States Government will not accept any cavalry {p.695} for twelve months unless already fully armed and equipped, and as the State cannot arm and equip more than one regiment, only one will be enlisted.

13th. The artillery will be organized as light batteries and not as regiments.

14th. The Confederate States Government will accept and fully arm and equip as many troops as may volunteer for the war, either as cavalry, artillery, or infantry.

By order of Maj. Gen. Sterling Price:

HENRY LITTLE, Col. and Asst. Adj. Gen., Mo. S. G.

* Details of organization omitted.

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Proclamation to the People of Central and North Missouri.

MARSHALL, MO., November 26, 1861.

FELLOW-CITIZENS: In the month of June last I was called to the command of a handful of Missourians, who nobly gave up home and comfort to espouse, in that gloomy hour, the cause of your bleeding country, struggling with the most causeless and cruel despotism known among civilized men. When peace and protection could no longer be enjoyed but at the price of honor and liberty your chief magistrate called for 50,000 men to drive the ruthless invader from a soil made fruitful by your labors and consecrated by your homes.

To that call less than 5,000 responded; out of a male population exceeding 200,000 men, one in forty only stepped forward to defend with their persons and their lives the cause of constitutional liberty and human rights.

Some allowances are to be made on the score of a want of military organization, a supposed want of arms, the necessary retreat of the army southward, the blockade of the river, and the presence of an armed and organized foe. But nearly six months have now elapsed; your crops have been tilled; your harvests have been reaped; your preparations for winter have been made; the Army of Missouri, organized and equipped, fought its way to the river; the foe is still in the field; the country bleeds, and our people groan under the inflictions of a foe marked with all the characteristics of barbarian warfare; and where now are the 50,000 to avenge our wrongs and free our country? Had 50,000 men flocked to our standard with their shot-guns in their hands there would not now be a Federal hireling in the State to pollute our soil. Instead of mined communities, starving families, and desolated districts, we should have had a people blessed with protection and with stores to supply the wants and necessities and comforts of life. Where are those 50,000 men? Are Missourians no longer true to themselves? Are they a timid, time-serving, craven race, fit only for subjection to a despot? Awake, my countrymen, to a sense of what constitutes the dignity and true greatness of a free people. A few men have fought your battles; a few men have dared the dangers of the battle-field; a few have borne the hardships of the camp, the scorching suns of summer, the frosts of winter, the malaria of the swamps, the privations incident to our circumstances, fatigue, and hunger, and thirst, often without blankets, without shoes, with insufficient clothing, with the cold, wet earth for a bed, the sky for a covering, and a stone for a pillow, glad only to meet the enemy on the field, where some paid the {p.696} noblest devotion known among men on earth to the cause of your country and your rights with their lives.

But where one has been lost on the field three have been lost by diseases induced by privation and toil. During all these trials we have murmured not; we offered all we had on earth at the altar of our common country-our own beloved Missouri-and we only now ask our fellow-citizens, our brethren, to come to us and help to secure What we have gained and to win our glorious inheritance from the cruel hand of the spoiler and the oppressor. Come to us, brave sons of Missouri! rally to our standard! I must have 50,000 men. I call upon you in the name of your country for 50,000 men. Do you stay at home to take care of your property? Millions of dollars have been lost because you staid at home. Do you stay at home for protection? More men have been murdered at home than I have lost in five successive battles. Do you stay at home to secure terms with the enemy? Then, I warn you, the day may soon come when you may be surrendered to the mercies of that enemy and your substance be given up to the Hessian and jayhawker. I cannot, I will not, attribute such motives to you, my countrymen.

But where are our Southern-rights friends? We must drive the oppressor from our land. I must have 50,000 men. Now is the crisis of your fate; now the golden opportunity to save the State; now is the day of your political salvation. The time of enlistment for our brave band is beginning to expire. Do not tax their patience beyond endurance; do not longer sicken their hearts by hope deferred. They begin to inquire, “Where are our friends?” Who shall give them an answer? Boys and small property-holders have in the main fought the battles for the protection of your property, and when they ask, “Where are the men for whom we are fighting?” how can I, how shall I, explain?

Citizens of Missouri, I call upon you by every consideration of interest, by every desire for safety, by every tie that binds you to home and country, delay no longer. “Let the dead bury their dead.” Leave your property to take care of itself. Commend your homes to the protection of God, and merit the admiration and love of childhood and womanhood by showing yourselves men, the sons of the brave and free, who bequeathed to us the sacred trust of free institutions. Come to the Army of Missouri, not for a week or month, but to free your country.

The burning fires of patriotism must inspire and lead you or all is lost; lost, too, just at the moment when all might be forever saved. Numbers give strength. Numbers intimidate the foe. Numbers save the necessity often of fighting battles. Numbers make our arms irresistible. Numbers command universal respect and insure confidence. We must have men-50,000 men. Let the herdsman leave his folds. Let the farmer leave his fields. Let the mechanic leave his shop. Let the lawyer leave his office till we restore the supremacy of law. Let the aspirants for office and place know they will be weighed in the balances of patriotism and may be found wanting. If there be any craven, crouching spirits, who have not the greatness of soul to respond to their country’s call for help, let them stay at home, and let only the brave and true come out to join their brethren on the tented field.

Come with supplies of clothing, and with tents, if you can procure {p.697} them. Come-with your guns of any description that can be made to bring down a foe. If you have no arms, come without them, and we will supply you as far as that is possible. Bring cooking utensils and rations for a few weeks. Bring blankets and heavy shoes and extra bed-clothing if you have them. Bring no horses to remain with the army except those necessary for baggage transportation. We must have 50,000 men. Give me these men, and, by the help of God, I will drive the hireling bands of thieves and marauders from the State. But if Missourians fail now to rise in their strength and avail themselves of the propitious moment to strike for honor and liberty, you cannot say that we have not done all we could do to save you.

You will be advised in time at what point to report for organization and active service. Leave your property at home. What if it be taken-all taken? We have $200,000,000 worth of Northern means in Missouri which cannot be removed. When we are once free the State will indemnify every citizen who may have lost a dollar by adhesion to the cause of his country. We shall have our property, or its value, with interest. But, in the name of God and the attributes of manhood, let me appeal to you by considerations infinitely higher than money! Are we a generation of driveling, sniveling, degraded slaves? Or are we men who dare assert and maintain the rights which cannot be surrendered, and defend those principles of everlasting rectitude, pure and high and sacred, like God, their author? Be yours the office to choose between the glory of a free country and a just government and the bondage of your children! I will never see the chains fastened upon my country. I will ask for six and a half feet of Missouri soil in which to repose, but will not live to see my people enslaved.

Do I hear your shouts? Is that your war-cry which echoes through the land? Are you coming? Fifty-thousand men! Missouri shall move to victory with the tread of a giant! Come on, my brave boys, 50,000 heroic, gallant, unconquerable Southern men! We await your coming.

STERLING PRICE, Major-General, Commanding.

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RICHMOND, VA., November 27, 1861.

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

SIR: It will be unwise to refuse to receive into our service any of the Indians who may offer to enter it. We have now in the service four regiments, numbering in all some 3,500 men, besides the Seminole troops and other detached companies, increasing the number to over 4,000. An additional regiment has been offered by the Choctaws and another can be raised among the Creeks. If I have the authority I can enlist even the malcontents among that people. I can place in the field (arms being supplied) 7,500 Indian troops, not counting the Comanches and Osages, whom I would only employ in case of an invasion of the Indian country.

The Indian country is of great extent, and demands to be defended against the Indians of the prairie on the west and against the more villainous marauders of Kansas on the north. This might be an easy task, but the determination of the Northern Government not to permit us to hold the country in question is well known, and the spring campaign will be fought in large measure for Missouri and the Indian {p.698} country. I wish to organize a force in the Indian country that may constitute a respectable command. I am not desirous to be merely a general of Indians, because a force of 3,000 or 4,000 irregular mounted troops is only of value when sustained by infantry and artillery. More over, to hold the Indian country against the force that will be thrown into it in the spring, if it do not come there to winter, two or three important points must be strengthened by field works, only to be constructed by infantry, but which the Indian rifles will efficiently aid in defending. It is important that our Indians should have our troops by their side, that they may not conclude that they are fighting for us only and not equally for themselves.

Provisions are cheap in the Indian country and forage and fuel are cheap. It is highly desirable to organize there such a force as may not only suffice to defend the country on its western and northern frontiers, but as may be able and ready to render efficient aid to the officer to whom the conduct of operations in Missouri may be intrusted. To do this, I request authority to receive into the service an additional force of Indians, if they offer themselves with arms, or as soon as I may have arms for them, not to exceed, with those already in the service, 7,500 men. A part of this force I propose to place at the posts near Red River, and at new posts to be selected on the western and northern Indian frontier, and to require the utmost economy on the part of their quartermasters and commissaries.

I also request that one of the Arkansas regiments now in the service may be assigned to my command; that I be authorized to receive the regiment now being raised by Col. Frank A. Rector, and that I be also authorized to receive one other infantry regiment, to be commanded, if raised by him, by Charles W. Adams, of Arkansas; this and the others to be infantry, and only to be mustered into the service when armed. No more volunteers can be had in Arkansas unless arms are furnished them, nor ought the Government to incur the expense of paying and feeding unarmed men.

Colonel Rector desires the regiment he is raising to be under my command. Mr. Adams can raise his regiment if I can procure the arms, as I hope to be able to do, and I propose to receive it by companies, and that the President then appoint him colonel. If no more can be done, I request permission to receive three regiments of infantry by companies, as each company presents itself with arms, or as I have arms to supply it, and I also ask for authority to receive two companies of artillery when I shall have the guns to furnish them.

United with infantry and artillery the Indians will prove valuable auxiliaries. A force in the Indian country, little encumbered with wagons and always ready to move, will be as available for offensive or defensive operations in Kansas or Missouri as if stationed in Northwestern Arkansas or wintering in the valley of the Arkansas River.

I am, very truly, your obedient servant,

ALBERT PIKE, Brigadier-General, Provisional Army, C. S. A.

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COLUMBUS, Ky., November 28, 1861.

Maj. Gen. STERLING PRICE, Missouri State Guard:

GENERAL: I avail of the going of one of your command to write a line to say I have strengthened this position until I regard it as safe from any assault the enemy may make against it.

{p.699}

I am now concentrating here a strong force and am fortifying New Madrid.

I have also at my disposal the gunboats belonging to Commander Hollins’ fleet, so that we are getting into a position to aid you above.

I shall be governed by circumstances as to my movements, but feel that you should not allow the enemy to rest or move from Saint Louis southward.

The messenger will give you further information as to details.

With my best wishes for your success in your effort to break the yoke of the oppressor, I remain, respectfully and truly, yours,

L. POLK, Major-General, Commanding.

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LITTLE ROCK, November 28, 1861.

JEFFERSON DAVIS:

A conspiracy has been discovered in the northern part of this State against the Confederate Government. Secret oaths, signs, and passwords adopted. The intention seems to be to join Lincoln’s army if it gets into Arkansas. Twenty-seven men have been arrested and brought here to-day and now in prison. A hundred more will doubtless be brought in a day or so. They say there are 1,700 in the State. What shall be done with them? I ask your advice in the premises. The district judge is not here. He ought to be at his post.

H. M. RECTOR, Governor of Arkansas.

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RICHMOND, November 30, 1861.

Brig. Gen. BEN. MCCULLOCH, Springfield, via Little Rock:

I cannot understand why you withdrew your troops instead of pursuing the enemy when his leaders were quarreling and his army separated into parts under different commanders. Send an explanation.

J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War.

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WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Richmond, December 2, 1861.

Brig. Gen. ALBERT PIKE, Richmond, Va.:

SIR: In answer to your letter of the 27th ultimo, I have to say that the Department makes no objection, but, on the contrary, cheerfully assents to your mustering into the service as many companies or regiments of Indians as you may be able to find arms for; also two regiments of infantry and two companies of artillery in the same manner, as soon as you can procure the arms.

No promise can be made in advance (none is ever made) as to the nomination of colonel if the companies are mustered separately into service. You will, of course, understand that the troops as proposed can only be mustered into service according to the rules of the Department, a printed copy whereof I inclose you, calling particular attention to the following points:

1st. That we can at present furnish no arms, but will cheerfully pay {p.700} at a valuation for all such as are furnished by troops who offer to enlist for the war.

2d. That if troops arm themselves and tender their services for twelve months we accept them, but do not pay for the arms.

I would not be willing to accept the Indians, even if offered for the war, as it would be of little value to put them in camps of instruction as we do with our own citizens under such circumstances. I doubt not the value of such a force as you propose to raise, and will be most happy to learn of your success.

I am, your obedient servant,

J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, New Madrid, Mo., December 2, 1861.

Col. W. G. PHEELAN, MO. S. Commanding Second Regiment, Camp Blanton, Mo.:

SIR: By orders from the Secretary of War, the embargo on all produce and stock is removed. You will therefore let the people know that they can ship or drive their produce or stock. You will order the companies of Captains Galbraith and McMurray, belonging to the First Regiment of Cavalry, to report to their regiment at this place. The troops from Cairo have gone northward again, and whether they will go after Price or stop at Cape Girardeau is not known. The weather is exceedingly bad and many men are sick. As soon as I hear from Price I will prepare for winter quarters. Let me hear from you, and as soon as Kitchen returns you had better come over.

Yours, &c.,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION WESTERN DEPARTMENT, Columbus, Ky., December 2, 1861.

Colonel Gantt will move his regiment to New Madrid and garrison the work now being constructed at that place. He will take with him four guns on siege-carriages, now on the work on the hill; the guns not now in battery. He will make requisition on the ordnance officer at this place for 100 rounds, 50 round shot, and 50 of grape for each gun, with necessary cartridges of powder. While General Thompson is at that post he will command the post and Colonel Gantt will report to and be under his orders. He will take with him twenty days’ rations for his command. A transport will be furnished by the time the command can be put in readiness.

By command of G. J. Pillow, brigadier-general, C. S. Army.

JOHN C. BURCH, Aide-de-Camp.

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LITTLE ROCK, December 3, 1861.

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

I dispatched the President recently [November 28], advising him of the arrest of citizens of Arkansas who had entered into a conspiracy against the South, No answer. Twenty-seven of them are in jail here {p.701} awaiting trial. Sixty have been arrested in Searcy County and 47 in Izard. The citizens have permitted them to volunteer. A portion sent to McCulloch, others to Colonel Borland, commanding at Pocahontas. The authorities of Arkansas are asked to approve this course. We decline, unless sanctioned by yourself or the President. If sent to the army at all, our opinion is they should go south.

H. M. RECTOR, Governor and President.

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RICHMOND, VA., December 3, 1861.

Hon. W. P. HARRIS, Confederate States Congress:

MY DEAR SIR: Language was said by Talleyrand to be useful for the concealment of one’s thoughts; but in our day it fails to communicate any thought. If it had been otherwise, the complaint in relation to General Price of which you speak could not have been made. The Commissioners of Missouri were informed that when that State offered troops they would be organized according to our military laws and generals would be appointed for brigades and divisions. Until then I have no power to appoint generals for those troops. The same statement, substantially, was made to the members of Congress from Missouri who called on me yesterday. They were also informed that, from conversation with informed persons and from correspondence now on file in the War Department, I was convinced that it was needful to the public interest that a general should be sent to the Arkansas and Missouri Division who had not been connected with any of the troops on that line of operations; and to the statement that the Missouri troops would not fully enlist under any one except General Price, I asked if they required their general to be put in command of the troops of Arkansas, of Texas, and of other Southern States. To bring these different forces into harmonious co-operation is a necessity. I have sought to effect it by selecting General Heth to command them in combination. If it is designed, by calling Heth a West Point Cadet, merely to object to his education in the science of war, it may pass for what it is worth; but if it be intended to assert that he is without experience, his years of active and distinguished service on the frontier of Missouri and the territory west of it will, to those who examine before they censure, be a sufficient answer. The Federal forces are not hereafter, as heretofore, to be commanded by path-finders and holiday soldiers, but by men of military education and experience in war. The contest is therefore to be on a scale of very different proportions than that of the partisan warfare witnessed during the past summer and fall. I have long since learned to bear hasty censure, in the hope that justice, if tardy, is sure; and in any event to find consolation in the assurance that all my ends have been my country’s.

With high respect,

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

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LITTLE ROCK, December 4, 1861.

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

Your dispatch of November 30 has been received. It is impossible to explain by telegraph.* I ask leave to go to Richmond at once for {p.702} that purpose. My army are now going into winter quarters. Nothing now can be done on this line until spring. I await answer.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

BEN. MCCULLOCH, Brigadier-General.

* See Series I, Vol. III, p. 743.

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RICHMOND, December 5, 1861.

General BEN. MCCULLOCH, Little Rock:

If you think you can safely leave your command, you are authorized to come to Richmond.

J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War.

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RICHMOND, VA., December 5, 1861.

Gov. H. M. RECTOR, Little Rock:

It is not possible, at this distance and with imperfect knowledge of the facts, to give directions about the parties arrested. You must use your best judgment in acting on the information before you.*

J. P. BENJAMIN, Secretary of War.

* See Rector to Benjamin, December 3, p. 700.

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HEADQUARTERS MISSOURI STATE GUARD, Camp on Rae River, December 6, 1861.

Brigadier-General MCCULLOCH, Or other Officer Comdg. Confederate Forces in Northwestern Arkansas:

SIR: The condition of affairs in this State is such that I must move my command to the Missouri River at the earliest practicable day. Predatory bands of the enemy, under such men as Lane, Montgomery, and Jennison, supported by the United States forces, are not only desolating the country, but are committing the most barbarous outrages upon the people of that region. They at the same time effectually close the roads to the thousands of recruits who would join my army if they could get to it.

My advices from all parts of the State satisfy me that my numbers would be indefinitely increased if I could but open the way to the river. My own force is too small to effect this without incurring the greatest risks. Your co-operation would enable me to do it without risk or difficulty, and we could thereby not only relieve that part of the State, but would be able to place ourselves in the very best position for opening the campaign by destroying the railroads and getting possession of the rivers.

I do, therefore, beg you to give me your instant and effective co-operation in a movement upon the Missouri River and also into Kansas if you shall concur in it. I await your answer very anxiously.

I inclose you a proclamation* as a sample of what is threatened by the enemy upon the Missouri River, and they seem to be carrying out their threats.

{p.703}

I am transferring the State troops as rapidly as I can, and very successfully, into the Confederate service.

I am, with the greatest respect, very truly, your obedient servant,

STERLING PRICE, Major-General, Commanding Mo. S. G.

* Not found.

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HEADQUARTERS DIVISION, Yarn Buren, Ark., December 7, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant-General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that, having been left in command of the division by General McCulloch, I have established my headquarters at this place. The prevalence of the small-pox at Fort Smith prevented me from making my headquarters there. I have taken every possible precaution to prevent this disease from entering the division, and I am happy to state that no case has yet occurred among the troops. The division is divided into two brigades-the First commanded by myself, is composed of five regiments of cavalry and one independent company; the Second commanded by Col. Louis Hébert (whose headquarters are at Fayetteville), is composed of six regiments of infantry, one regiment and a battalion of cavalry, and three batteries, two four-gun batteries, and one complete. My brigade is now at its stations on the Arkansas River below this and in a distance of 60 miles. The companies are busily engaged in erecting huts for winter quarters. The Second Brigade have gone into winter quarters near Fayetteville.

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

JAMES MCINTOSH, Colonel, Commanding.

[Indorsement.]

DECEMBER 18, 1861.

Respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War. In my opinion this command, instead of being put into winter quarters, would be kept free from disease by being ordered to the field in Missouri, where it would render good service to the cause. Colonel McIntosh is an intelligent, active officer, and would grace the commission of brigadier-general. Colonel Hébert is also a highly-intelligent and capable officer. A combination of the talents of these officers as leaders would doubtless produce favorable results.

S. COOPER, Adjutant and Inspector-General.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, New Madrid, Mo., December 7, 1861.

Brig. Gen. M. L. CLARK, MO. S. G., Richmond, Va.:

DEAR GENERAL: There has been a great deal of dissatisfaction among the men you left here, and upon the return of Colonel Kennelly, who was anxious to have some of them go with him, and on a representation that you had accepted a position in the Regular Army, {p.704} they determined to disband. The officers all seemed willing and anxious, and I, not feeling willing or disposed to hold them against their desire when we were all about reorganizing, gave my consent, and yesterday they scattered to the four winds. Kelly, Peterson, Wise, and Brannon remain with me. Some went. Frost and Bower and the majority have returned to Saint Louis County. The terms of enlistment of my men are expiring each day, and, as we have not been able to get a single official order or instruction as to the plan of reorganization, I am having great trouble to satisfy the men. If you can throw any light upon the subject I will be much obliged to you.

Believe me to be, yours, most respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, New Madrid, Mo., December 7, 1861.

Brig. Gen. GIDEON J. PILLOW, C. S. A., Columbus, Ky.:

DEAR GENERAL: Colonel Gantt reached here last night, and is now encamping near the fort. I will have the big guns placed to-day. I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of Governor Jackson or definite instructions about our reorganization. The terms of enlistment of my men are expiring every day, and while there is so much suspense many are desiring to leave who would cheerfully enlist if matters could be placed right. The rumor that General Price has been superseded is producing great dissatisfaction and I hope the report is untrue. A number of outsiders have been here recruiting and my officers have been much annoyed. Everything is reported quiet about Charleston. I hope my men are reporting to your satisfaction.

Yours, respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, New Madrid, Mo., December 8, 1861.

His Excellency C. F. JACKSON, Governor and Commander-in-Chief of Missouri, Richmond, Mo.:

SIR: I have been most anxiously waiting some definite instructions in regard to the expiration of the terms of enlistment of the men now in the field of the Missouri State Guard, and also about our organization under the Confederate States. The time of those who answered your call is fast expiring. In fact every day whole companies are relieved by expiration of terms, and as many should and ought to go home, while others would come under different officers, the present efficiency of the force is decidedly below par. If the present organization is to be continued in the field another proclamation from you is necessary, and, if a reorganization is to be had or gone into, it should be done soon and all at once, so that the appeals and excitement can be used to better advantage. I can raise a brigade without any trouble, if allowed to manage it now; but if separate companies and regiments are allowed to break up and form at different times, there will be no enthusiasm and a great falling off in numbers. I have a great many {p.705} men sick and they are dying by the wholesale. Please send me some orders on the subject of reorganization.

Yours, most respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, New Madrid, Mo., December 8, 1861-10 a.m.

Maj. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, C. S. A., Columbus, Ky.:

DEAR GENERAL: My dispatches inform me that two of my men, who were sent to take posts on my courier line, have been captured by the enemy. Major Kalfus has sent to you a plan and description of the works at Cairo, and I am fearful they were sent by these two men, and I notify you, for fear that other plans may be sent you in lieu of those captured. I will immediately write to Major Kalfus to get the names of persons bearing his dispatch to you. Our fort is nearly ready.

Yours, most respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, New Madrid, Mo., December 9, 1861.

Col. W. G. PHEELAN, MO. S. G., Camp Blanton, Mo.:

DEAR COLONEL: Governor Jackson is here, and I can now begin to talk with some knowledge of the plan of reorganization. It is proposed that all the able-bodied men shall enlist in the Confederate service, and from among themselves elect their field officers up to the colonel. The balance are to form themselves into new companies and regiments of Missouri State Guard under the old law, subject to be called out at any time the Governor may see fit. Now, I want you to tell me frankly and fairly how many we can depend upon from Stoddard County. It is very necessary that we should form a whole brigade, if possible, and, as the companies and regiments must be full, I am very anxious to know what to rely upon. If it would assist in the organization, or you think more would be induced to join, I will order all your command over to this post, so that you all can have a show in the election of field officers; for, if you remain on that side of the swamp, you can only form companies and then will have to be attached to some other regiment, where the officers may be already elected. Probably it would be as well to form companies over there, and then let them march here before the election of field officers. This applies to the cavalry as well as to the infantry, and I really am in doubt as to the best plan to give you all a fair show and satisfaction. If Bloomfield could be left exposed for a week, without danger from the enemy, I would at once order over all, to be paid off and reorganize. Therefore, I simply repeat, let me know your opinion on the subject as soon as possible, as there is not much time to lose.

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

{p.706}

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, New Madrid, Mo., December 9, 1861.

Maj. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, C. S. A., Columbus, Ky.:

DEAR GENERAL: Governor Jackson reached here this evening, and will remain with me a few days before he goes up to see you. He wishes us to reorganize immediately, and I would be pleased if you would send us down a mustering officer immediately, as he will be able to answer the ten thousand questions with which I am now bothered and can receive the companies as they are formed.

It is proposed to christen Fort Thompson to-day, both for the purpose of trying the range of the guns and collecting our men, to be addressed by Governor Jackson. Should the guns be heard at Columbus you are notified that there is no fight down here.

Yours, most respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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MEMPHIS, TENN., December 9, 1861.

Hon. E. C. CABELL:

MY DEAR SIR: Agreeably to your request, I beg leave to state that the following is the result of observations recently made by me whilst going to, remaining at, and returning from Saint Louis.

Saint Louis is surrounded by a single line of detached works of earth, which are well constructed, but so located as to admit of the passage of troops between them without coming under fire. This defect would have been remedied if the original plan of a second line of advanced works had been carried out. This intention has, however, been abandoned.

I learned from what I deemed good authority that a force of 30,000 or 35,000 men could be detached from Missouri for a southern expedition, and still leave a sufficient force in the State to hold that portion of it now in the possession of the Federal Government. It is generally understood to be the intention of Halleck to advance upon Columbus from Cairo in the latter part of this month or the first of the next with a force of from 75,000 to 100,000 men. Accompanying this land force will be a flotilla of some twenty or thirty gunboats, which are cased with 2 1/2-inch iron amidships, so as to protect the machinery, and some thirty mortar rafts, each carrying a 13-inch mortar, with a bulwark of iron plates 3/8-inch thick, to protect riflemen. These will be towed into position by diminutive tug-boats or propellers. The gunboats will generally carry eleven guns of large caliber. The whole expedition will be thoroughly equipped, and the flotilla will be manned by experienced sailors and officered by officers of the Navy. They will come with the full intention of taking the place at any cost, and declare that to be their determination, though it cost 20,000 men. I think the attack will be very formidable.

Columbus is tolerably well fortified, with the usual field works on the land side, while the steep bluff is a sufficient protection from assault on the river front. It strikes me, however, that there is a deficiency of guns in position for a horizontal fire, which of course is best for inexperienced gunners. The plunging fire from the high bluff is admirably fitted for the sloping sides of the gunboats, but will be quite uncertain. The large area of the field works will give a fine target for mortar practice, {p.707} which may have the effect to demoralize green troops. The want of experienced officers seems to be felt in the garrison.

Fort Pillow is a place of much greater natural strength than Columbus, and the batteries are well constructed and well located. Some sixty guns can be brought to bear on almost any point of the river within range.

I did not see the works on the land front, but was informed that they were well placed and very extensive, requiring a large garrison. The present garrison of Fort Pillow is insufficient to man the guns on the river front for any protracted engagement.

I look upon this place as one of great importance. Should boats be able to get past Columbus they could be very effectually stopped here. It is not so much exposed, or at least the main batteries are not, to a mortar fire, and it would form an excellent rallying point to any troops that might meet with a reverse in front. It ought to be commanded by an experienced and scientific officer and kept well provisioned.

With regard to affairs in Missouri, General Price has advanced toward Sedalia and issued a proclamation calling for 50,000 men. It is supposed that he will obtain them. If he does, he ought of course to make a demonstration toward Saint Louis, in order to retain there as much as possible of Halleck’s force, and at the same time he ought by all means to attack and take Fort Leavenworth, which contains supplies of every kind sufficient to winter his army, and which are estimated by those who transported them to be worth $8,000,000. Having taken Fort Leavenworth, and destroyed the Hannibal and Saint Joseph Railroad before he did so, he could then with that force sweep down through Kansas and exterminate the jayhawking bands of Lane and Montgomery, which he could easily do, as he would then have them between two fires.

By very prompt and energetic action, such as he has heretofore exhibited, it is not impossible that Halleck’s great expedition might be paralyzed; but to do this he must have a large force, and to obtain this it has been necessary for him, in the proclamation referred to, to confess his present weakness.

When we look at the great necessity that exists for troops in this direction it seems impossible that the recent movement of troops from that theater to Arkansas can be justified.

I need not tell you that to lose Memphis now would be to lose the heart of the Southwestern States of the Confederacy. To prevent this it is necessary that those States should strain every nerve to re-enforce Fort Pillow and Columbus and that speedily and at the same time everything now possible should be done to give heart and hope to the people of Missouri.

Very truly, yours,

D. M. FROST.

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NEW MADRID, MO., December 11, 1861.

Major-General POLK:

DEAR SIR: I have deferred writing a few days to learn something of the country and of my duties here.

The fort is nearly completed. Is not so large as I anticipated; only of sufficient size to contain buildings for a magazine and commissary stores and quarters for about two infantry and two artillery companies. More than this would be dangerous, since in case of fire the soldiers {p.708} would be compelled to abandon the fort. I have selected a spot just below, immediately on the bank of the river and facing the sally-port or entrance of the fort, for the construction of barracks for my command. Have engaged the lumber, and can have them built in a week. It is the best, I think, that can be done. The position is out of the way of the guns, cannot be flanked by the enemy, and could afford him no cover in advancing upon the fort. Shall I go on and build them?

It occurs to me that another fort like this-a bastion-built higher up the river, at a point where an impassable swamp comes well-nigh up to New Madrid, would be advisable. It would command all the weak points not covered by the guns of this fort, and the two, properly controlled, would render this a very strong point.

I fear that only a few of General Thompson’s forces can be induced to re-enlist now. This will leave us here almost alone, and that in a few days. The enemy are not ignorant of this. It is useless to say they are not advised of matters here. These facts lead me to conclude that we stand in immediate need of additional forces here. The regiment at Island No. 10.-Colonel Smith’s-might, I think, be sent here, as that point could not be attacked except by way of this place or down the river. I can send forthwith for the guns I have below and arm them. Besides this, these troops need drilling and rigid discipline, the requirements of the service having kept them heretofore isolated. Logan’s battalion from Arkansas will soon reach Columbus. It is raised under the order I obtained from you a few weeks since. Could it not be ordered here? If allowed a preference, they would come. It is armed. Colonel Terry’s Arkansas command, just organized, if not otherwise disposed of, might be sent here. I sent messengers to Arkansas for a cavalry regiment, with instructions to report to you at Columbus. I fear it has gone into service elsewhere. I can soon have one organized and, I think, armed, yet not in time to meet the emergency just upon us. Unless General Thompson’s cavalry re-enlist we shall be without this arm of the service. Such a possibility, which I fear is a probability, needs no comment.

Assistant quartermaster and commissary for the Confederate forces here are indispensable. The Missouri Militia are better in marching and fighting than in army detail. I think it would be to the interest of the Confederacy to get accounts as little confused with them as possible. Their facilities are fewer, and they necessarily pay more for supplies than Confederate officers. In obedience to your instructions, the quartermaster and commissary of my regiment, who are both Confederate bonded officers, are acting as post officers for the Confederate forces here. About $3,000 placed in their hands now would enable them to open a running account for supplies, forage, &c. We can purchase pork at 6, beef at 5, and corn at 45 cents. These officers might be of service in procuring supplies for Columbus. They are energetic and competent business men.

The fort is a half mile from town and 2 or 3 miles from General Thompson’s command. While he and his command are gallant officers and soldiers, and while he as a brigadier and his staff as officers are, in my opinion, highly essential to the success of our cause in Missouri, yet in matters of discipline and drill, of defense and fortification, and all those things which pertain to the efficient and thorough organization of our army, they are somewhat careless. I cannot help feeling that the responsibility of matters connected with the fort will rest upon me. I would feel better satisfied to take command of the fort at once and report to General T. as commandant of the post. It {p.709} would be entirely agreeable to him I feel sure. I make this suggestion above because I am impressed with the necessity of a regulated and disciplined force for the task assigned us. As it is, there is an artillery company and my command belonging to the fort, but each independent of the other, and both at sea as to orders, drill, regulations, &c. The ammunition for the guns sent from Columbus not received. Captain Stewart will forward a requisition for what is necessary, which we ought to have as early as practicable.

If matters here were under your eye directly, or your knowledge of them did not have to come through channels necessarily and unavoidably imperfect, I should not have made the suggestions above, and do so with diffidence, for I am aware that it requires nice discrimination to keep in the bounds of propriety in such matters, and hope to be pardoned for anything I may have said amiss.

Regretting the length of this letter and promising brevity hereafter,

I am, yours, &c.,

E. W. GANTT, Commanding Twelfth Arkansas Regimen’

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LITTLE VERDIGRIS, December 11, 1861.

Col. JAMES MCINTOSH, Commanding McCulloch’s Division, &c.:

COLONEL: Yours of the 1st instant, by Major Clark, is at hand. Colonel Sims’ effective command is with me, and will go into winter quarters as soon as the state of affairs in this country will permit. Day before yesterday we had a battle with Hopoeithlayohola’s forces, about 2,000 strong, and a part of Colonel Drew’s regiment of Cherokees, who deserted in a body the night before and went over to the enemy. Colonel Drew and about 70 men joined me. This disaffection, I fear, is wide-spread in the Cherokee Nation, and instead of withdrawing troops, it is absolutely necessary to have additional white force. I hope you will send Colonel Young’s regiment immediately to support Col. Stand Watie or take post at or near Fort Gibson. Col. Stand Watie, if hard pressed, will fall back to that point. The true men among the Cherokees must be supported and protected or we shall lose the Indian Territory.

Respectfully,

DOUGLAS H. COOPER, Colonel, C. S. Army, Commanding Indian Department.

I am nearly out of provisions and ammunition, and shall fall back down the Arkansas slowly to mouth of Verdigris. The battle commenced about 1 o’clock and lasted until the darkness compelled me to withdraw my men from the creek bottom. Next morning the enemy had disappeared. Their loss was very heavy.

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HEADQUARTERS, Pocahontas, Ark., December 11, 1861.

General A. SIDNEY JOHNSTON, Commanding Western Department, Bowling Green, Ky.:

GENERAL: Since my letter of the 27th ultimo,* concerning insurrectionary {p.710} movements in Izard County and other portions of this State, the expedition, consisting of two companies of infantry, which, as I then informed you, would be sent to aid in suppressing those movements, has performed that duty and returned. As I had anticipated the troubles in that quarter were found to be less serious than they had been represented to me, though they were sufficiently so to require prompt attention. By the time my expedition arrived at the scene of these troubles the loyal citizens of the several neighborhoods had organized themselves into companies of Home Guards for their own protection, and had so far regained the ascendancy as to leave but little more for the force I had sent to their assistance than to aid in collecting the prisoners who were taken or had voluntarily given themselves up. As well as I can learn, some 40 of these prisoners had already been sent to Little Rock and some 75 or 80 more were confined in the jails of the different counties. Besides these, my returning force received the surrender of 57 prisoners and brought them to this place for my disposal. Upon inquiring into the character and antecedents of those 57 men, I do not find that any of them have been guilty of such overt acts of disloyalty as would warrant any severity of punishment. The most of them are ignorant men; and although they have continued to be, ever since the accession of Arkansas to the Southern Confederacy, Union men, in their associations, at least, if not in their real sentiments and decided connections, yet they are not found to have engaged in any act of open disloyalty to our Government. The most of them, moreover, declare their innocence of any such intentions, alleging that if they have done wrong at all in this respect they had been misled by others, who have made their escape from the country; and in evidence of their present sincerity and their desire to prove their loyalty to the South they have all voluntarily taken the oath of allegiance, and earnestly insist upon being permitted to enter the military service in some of our companies.

In view of this state of facts, and believing that it will be both safe and useful to the public interest, I have granted permission for such of them as may be found suitable in other respects to be received as recruits into the several companies; suitable arms for their use being furnished by the country people. Such of them as may be found unfit for the military service and are yet unwilling to return home, as all of them are, will be disposed of in the most useful and economical way, as mechanics, teamsters, &c., as opportunity may offer.

From the best information I can get, the prompt and decided steps which have been taken in this case, especially in the matter of driving the leaders entirely from the State and removing so many of the rank and file from the disaffected neighborhoods, have had the effect to crush the insurrectionary movement in all its material elements, and leave little more to be done in respect to it than to exercise ordinary vigilance and discretion for a few weeks or months to come in quieting the public mind in those neighborhoods where these troubles have existed. This I shall endeavor to do, in co-operation with the State authorities.

In the hope that what I have done in this case will meet your approval, I have the honor to be, most respectfully, yours,

SOLON BORLAND, Colonel, Commanding.

* Not found.

{p.711}

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CAMP NEW MADRID, December 13, 1861-10 a.m.

Maj. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, Columbus, Ky.:

DEAR GENERAL: I inclose you a letter from the captain of my scout near Charleston, which is rather discouraging, compared with the events of the evening before. My men attacked them, the enemy, before, and brought in 2 men, 5 muskets, 15 blankets &c. ; but they paid me for it last night. Unless something unexpected transpires between now and night, I intend to take a moonlight ride after them myself and hope then to give a good account of them.

Governor Jackson will go on the first boat to Memphis to get his family, and will probably go direct from there to see General Johnston.

I send you also a letter taken from one of the prisoners. It is rumored here that Colonel Bowen is having a fight. As soon as my little cannon arrive I will test their virtue on the enemy.

Yours, most respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

[Inclosures.]

EAST PRAIRIE, December 12, 1861.

General JEFF. THOMPSON:

DEAR GENERAL: I received yours of the 11th, and in reply can say that we are still keeping a sharp lookout. The Northerners were out yesterday scouting the country west of Charleston as far as Bertrand. They took 12 citizens prisoners in that vicinity, and they came in contact with our pickets, 6 in number; 4 at one place, which they captured, the other 2 at another place, and made fight, and succeeded in killing 1 Northerner, slightly wounding another, and killing 1 horse, and made their escape into the swamp. Their forces amounted to 200 cavalry and about the same of infantry. The infantry was left at Charleston whilst the cavalry scouted. They say they know that Jeff. Thompson is in the neighborhood with at least 150 men, and tell the citizens if they don’t tell where they are that they will burn the town (Charleston) and destroy the property of all who harbor them. They say they are going to scout the country out or run us out of it. They all went back to the Point last evening except one company of cavalry, which fed their horses at Charleston and started, with orders to go to Shelly’s Bridge and thence to East Prairie. I have not heard of them since.

I send you a man who says he lives at Cook’s farm, below Belmont, and was taken on the Madrid and Charleston road, 8 miles south of Charleston, and inquiring for some mill, where he could get to work. Having no pass, telling a crooked story, I thought best to send him to camp.

Yours, truly, &c.,

CHARLES P. PRICE, Captain Co. D, First Reg. Cav., First Div., Mo. S. G.

Mr. POLK:

SIR: I have just returned from Saint Louis, and I learned that they have chartered 40 steamboats, to be at Cairo on the 10th of this month; but the river is so low that they cannot get all of their gunboats down. They will have some twelve or thirteen gunboats and three hundred guns, and they say they can take Columbus with 40,000 men most easy. {p.712} They will come down to you. I think they will have seventy-five regiments or more. They haven’t over 6,000 at Camp Holt. I don’t know how many guns they have there and at Bird’s Point. I don’t know, as they won’t let me go to their cannon. I think I will be able to go where I please soon.

I will get more information soon. They are close after me at this time. You must excuse me.

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HEADQUARTERS DIVISION, Van Buren, Ark., December 14, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant-General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: I have to-day received a communication from Major-General Price, commanding the Missouri State Guard, asking my cooperation with him in his proposed march to the Missouri River. I herewith inclose my answer. The facility with which the enemy could concentrate a force on the Missouri River renders such a project at this season of the year almost madness. In a very short time it will be nearly impossible for wagons or artillery to move over the Missouri roads.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES MCINTOSH, Colonel, Commanding.

[Inclosure.]

HEADQUARTERS DIVISION, Van Buren, Ark., December 14, 1861.

Maj. Gen. STERLING PRICE, Commanding Mo. S. G., Camp on Sac River, Missouri:

GENERAL: Your communication, dated the 6th instant, has just been received. After General McCulloch ordered the troops of this division into winter quarters, some at Fayetteville and some on the Arkansas River, he started for Richmond, leaving the command with me. On the same day I received your communication a call for aid came from General Cooper, commanding the Indian Department, who had just had another battle with Hopoeithlayohola, and was falling back. Some of the Indian regiments were disaffected, and nearly an entire regiment had deserted to the enemy. Under these circumstances I have been compelled to send three regiments to his assistance.

I am endeavoring to make the troops now in this division as effective as possible, in anticipation of a call from the Mississippi River. Memphis is menaced, and a call has been made on the neighboring States for assistance. The fall of Memphis would be disastrous in the extreme to our cause. Under all these circumstances, the want of many essentials, the want of warm clothing for our Southern troops, and, moreover, the great distance to be traveled in the depth of winter over the bleak prairies of Missouri, I feel compelled, although reluctantly, to decline to co-operate with you in your proposed march to the Missouri River. Hitherto whenever we have co-operated, and I have had a voice in the matter, it has always been to move forward with you, but I am satisfied that nothing but disaster would attend a forward movement now. Did I think the good of my country permitted this move nothing {p.713} would give me greater pleasure than to march to the aid of men so gallantly battling for their country and their homes.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES MCINTOSH, Colonel, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS DIVISION, Van Buren, Ark., December 14, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant-General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: I have the honor to inform you that I have just received the inclosed communication* from Colonel Cooper, commanding the forces in the Indian Department. In answer to his call for aid I have sent seven companies of Young’s regiment, five companies of Greer’s regiment, and Major Whitfield’s battalion of three companies. I have also countermanded the order calling Sims’ regiment into winter quarters, and ordered him to report to Colonel Cooper. With this force I think Colonel Cooper will be able to march against Hopoeithlayohola with a certainty of success. I have advised him as soon as this force is concentrated to march at once and use his utmost efforts to destroy the enemy. Hopoeithlayohola has now 2,500 men, and probably more will join him unless he is soon overthrown. Drew’s regiment of Cherokees has disbanded, the greater number going over to the enemy. Hopoeithlayohola is undoubtedly securing assistance from Kansas.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES MCINTOSH, Colonel, Commanding.

* See of December 11, p. 709.

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HEADQUARTERS OF DIVISION, Van Buren, Ark., December 15, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant-General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: I have the honor to apply to be removed from this section of the country after the return of General McCulloch, or, if he does not return, after I am relieved from the command of this division. In the mean time I will use every possible means to organize the different departments of the division and to render the troops as efficient as the circumstances will permit. It is well known to you that as soon as I resigned from the Federal service I hastened to Montgomery, and laid before the Department the necessity of organizing a force to operate here, and I volunteered for service. I had hoped that a position would have been assigned me, giving me some command, but, notwithstanding my disappointment, I cheerfully came out as the adjutant-general of the officer assigned to duty here, and labored faithfully and under many difficulties to form an army. During the period I acted as adjutant-general the command of several different regiments was offered to me. At length I accepted one, and led it through the bloody field {p.714} of Oak Hills. My election of colonel was confirmed by the Department. Since the battle of Oak Hills I have for a great part of the time commanded the advance guard of our little army, and I am happy to say at least won the confidence of the people of this State. I do not think any battle of importance will be fought during the next year west of the Mississippi River. Probably none other than a guerrilla war will be kept up. I therefore desire and respectfully apply for service where the tug of war will be, and where I can be of more service than here. Moreover, I desire to be nearer the Department, where, if I am fortunate, I may at least be heard, and have the same chances that many of the regular officers of the Army, younger in rank than myself, have had, and rise at least to their level. I hope my request will be granted.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES MCINTOSH, Colonel, Commanding.

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HEADQUARTERS MISSOURI STATE GUARD, Camp near Osceola, December 16, 1861.

The PRESIDENT OF THE CONFEDERATE STATES:

SIR: The Hon. William A. Harris will present this letter to you, and will also make known to Your Excellency the present condition of affairs in this State. I have particularly instructed him to endeavor to impress upon you the importance of the instant and active co-operation of the Confederate forces in Northwestern Arkansas with this army. I have repeatedly assured your Government that such co-operation would enable me to take and maintain possession of three fourths of the State and to gather around me at least 50,000 recruits These cannot come to me in the present condition of the State. Most of them are compelled to stay at home to give whatever protection they can to their families against the armies and marauding gangs which are laying waste and desolating the State; and thousands who would gladly join the army, if they could get to it, are prevented from doing so by the extension of the enemy’s lines across the State and their occupation of every approach to the army. All that I can do under the circumstances is to occupy the most threatening position which I can dare to assume, so as to hold in check the greatest possible number of the enemy and so prevent them from being employed against us elsewhere. It is this consideration which leads me to hold my present position, which is one of the greatest peril.

I hope that Your Excellency will be pleased to order the Confederate forces in Northwestern Arkansas to co-operate with me, and to do it immediately. I fear that our cause in Missouri may otherwise become desperate. The enemy are not only laying waste those parts of the State which are liable to fall into our possession or which are occupied by our friends, but they openly declare that no crops shall be sown which can possibly fall into our hands. It is altogether important that this work of ruin and devastation should be speedily arrested. The present winter is the most favorable season for operations, and I assure you that nothing stands in the way of complete success but the want of co-operation between the Confederate and State forces.

Mr. Harris will present my views and wishes more fully and particularly {p.715} than I can write them, and I commend him to your fullest confidence.

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, Your Excellency’s obedient servant,

STERLING PRICE, Major-General, Commanding Mo. S. G.

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HEADQUARTERS DIVISION, Van Buren, Ark., December 16, 1861.

General S. COOPER, Adjutant-General C. S. Army, Richmond, Va.:

GENERAL: Since my communication of day before yesterday I have heard more of the disaffection of the Cherokees and of the rapidly-increasing force of Hopoeithlayohola, the Creek chief. I have deemed the troubles there of sufficient importance to send additional force, and will myself take command and march against Hopoeithlayohola. I start to-morrow, and will march with upwards of 2,000 men. With this force and Colonel Cooper’s I hope soon to settle matters in the nation.*

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

JAMES MCINTOSH.

* See operations in the Indian Territory, November 19, 1861-January 4, 1862, pp. 4-33.

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HDQRS. FIRST MIL. DIST., MISSOURI STATE GUARD, Camp New Madrid, Mo., December 16, 1861.

Maj. Gen. LEONIDAS POLK, C. S. A., Columbus, Ky.:

DEAR GENERAL: I would be pleased if you would send down a mustering officer as soon as possible, with such instructions as you may be pleased to give him, in regard to the matter upon which I conversed with you a few days since. I would draw your attention again to the fact that a transfer and reorganization of the Missouri State Guard is not like the formation of new companies, from the fact that many captains who cannot probably produce more than 40 or 50 men to the mustering officer may have absent on leave, or sick, or on duty more than enough to make a full company. Therefore I would ask that you would either allow the mustering officer or myself a “margin,” when from known circumstances we have reason to believe that a full company will be raised.

My instructions arrived this evening from Major-General Price, and he has been pleased to approve of my conduct during the past six months, and desires us to enter the Confederate service as soon as possible, and the eloquent appeals which appear in his Camp Journal will certainly have great weight in inducing men to re-enlist.

Many of my men are anxious to return home for a short time, and, for fear of the weather preventing their return in time, it would be well if you could station another regiment here, even though it be one of the unarmed regiments. They could assist in building such fortifications as you may desire to build here. I have discovered by experience that we cannot work the negro and our kind of soldiers on the same work at the same time; and, as the number of negroes which I {p.716} have been able to collect in this county is so small, I ordered them all sent home this evening, and more soldiers detailed for to-morrow. Smith’s regiment, at Island No. 10, could be profitably employed here, and Colonel Gantt is anxious to have them.

A scouting party of the enemy (some hundred or more) came across Jones’ Ford from Commerce last night, and captured several citizens and some of my men, who were at home. They immediately returned to Commerce or Cape Girardeau. I have not yet taken my moonlight ride, as none of the enemy are out of Bird’s Point, and my scouts say they are expecting an attack hourly at that point.

Hoping that you will send a mustering officer, or send me authority to act, I am, yours, most respectfully,

M. JEFF. THOMPSON, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

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RICHMOND, VA., December 20, 1861.

General STERLING PRICE, Commanding Missouri Forces:

MY DEAR GENERAL: I have received, with much pleasure, your letter of the 10th ultimo,* with the inclosed correspondence. It was not needed to make me appreciate the difficulties and embarrassments under which you have labored nor the sacrifices and devotion displayed in the cause of Missouri and the South. For all this you have not only my thanks and those of the good people of your own State, but also those of the whole South. We here have not forgotten you; but, on the contrary, have been most anxious to give to Missouri all the aid in our power, and have been hopefully looking for the tender of troops from Missouri and Arkansas, to be organized into brigades and divisions under the laws of the Confederate States. We have at present no troops to give you except those under General McCulloch, and you are aware of their condition.

I was sorry to learn from Colonel Cooke that the term of service of your forces is for so short a period and that the term of enlistment of so many is about to expire. You know the disadvantage of short terms of service. Can you not organize a force for the war? So long as it lasts the people of the country in which it is carried on must engage in it; and, until our independence is recognized and peace restored, the only question should be, how can these ends be best promoted?

The agreement entered into with General Frémont was very desirable to us, and it is to be regretted that his removal has made the contract void.

You may rest assured that the welfare of Missouri is as dear to me as that of other States of the Confederacy, and that I will do all in my power to assist her in her struggle to maintain the common cause and to vindicate her freedom and sovereignty.

Accept my most friendly remembrance and assurances of my best wishes for your success and happiness.

Very respectfully and truly, yours,

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

* See Series I, Vol. III, p. 734.

{p.717}

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 136.}

HEADQUARTERS MO. S. G., Camp on Bear Creek, December 20, 1861.

The army will move to-morrow morning at sunrise. The following will be the order of march:

1st. Eighth Division, General Rains.

2d. Third Division, General Price.

3d. Second Division, General Green.

4th. Sixth Division, General Parsons.

5th. Volunteer Corps, Colonel Little.

6th. Fourth Division, General Slack.

7th. Fifth Division, General Steen.

The Eighth Division will furnish an advance guard of 200 men, under command of a field officer, who will report to the major-general commanding, before starting, for instructions. The Fifth Division will furnish a like guard for the rear.

By order of Major-General Price.

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RICHMOND, VA., December 21, 1861.

His Excellency the GOVERNOR OF MISSOURI:

MY DEAR SIR: We are anxious that the troops of Missouri should be tendered to the Confederate Government, in order that they may be organized into brigades and divisions and general officers appointed for them, or, if preferable to them, received as independent companies or battalions, for such further organization as the interest of the service and the character of the troops may indicate. By this it is thought that their efficiency will be increased, and that they will be relieved from the anomalous position they now occupy as militia of the Confederate States without being a part of their organized Army.

This arrangement seems very desirable to me, both for the sake of the Missouri troops and the advancement of our cause, and I hope it will meet with your concurrence.

Very respectfully and truly, yours,

JEFFERSON DAVIS.

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FORT THOMPSON, MO., December 21, 1861.

Major-General POLK:

DEAR SIR: Regarding this place as of too much importance in the defense of the Mississippi Valley to be lost or jeopardized (and knowing that you so regard it), I cannot refrain, at the expense, possibly, of being thought obtrusive, from giving a short statement of things as they exist here.

Our force consists of two artillery companies (one of them well drilled), and the Twelfth Arkansas Regiment, armed and equipped. Of General Thompson’s immediate command 600 or 700 only are left. They are a wretched, ragged, dispirited looking set of men; half armed, undisciplined, careless, and inattentive. There is no Confederate cavalry. The garrison in the fort is at the mercy of the Missouri pickets. Of these, one entire company, while on picket duty several days ago, left their posts, disbanded, and went home. I have no sort of confidence in the vigilance and fidelity of the others. You can’t induce them, and, what is worse, the officers who take charge of them, to apprehend any danger. A feeling of too great security has resulted in a consequent want of vigilance and attention, and these men will soon disband.

These things are not written to annoy or give you trouble or uneasiness, {p.718} but from a sense of duty. Based upon them I desire to make the following suggestions, not matured, but just such as occur to me at the moment: That Colonel Smith’s regiment be sent here from Island No. 10, and that from 200 to 400 horses, with cavalry arms and equipage, be sent from Memphis (I understand they can be procured there) as soon as possible. These to be used by detachments from the infantry as pickets. The soldiers would be delighted and benefited by the change. This is proposed merely to meet the present emergency; is suggested by the scarcity of cavalry in reach and the poverty of means at hand just now. The horses and arms could be used in a few weeks as a permanent basis for that number of cavalry.

The result proposed is to have the pickets so arranged that we can be advised of the enemy’s advance at least twenty-four hours before the attack, and so be able, even with our small force and imperfect preparations, to hold out until we can get re-enforcements from above. As it is, we may be attacked at any moment, for I have no earthly confidence in this mutinous and insubordinate remnant of Missouri Militia around us.

It is due to General Thompson, who is a brave, gallant, and worthy officer, to state that this condition of things is attributable to circumstances over which he has no control and could not have been prevented by any one. It is proper to add that it is by no means impossible that my apprehensions may be groundless, and that I may err in my opinion in reference to the fidelity, &c., of these men and that your means of information may be such as to satisfy you of my error. I hope this may be so. Nevertheless, believing what I state to be true and entertaining the apprehensions that I do, I think it best out of abundance of caution to advise you of it.

There are reasons of smaller importance why these or some troops should be sent here. General Thompson can furnish no detail for work on the fort. The teams and men of my regiment are constantly required. All the timber and materials must be hauled by them. This forces me to neglect the barracks, which a few days would finish. Winter is upon us and we ought to be housed.

Can’t I get the powder and buckshot I sent for? Don’t you think them better in a close fight from the fort? Can I get a few wagons and teams?

One of my sentinels arrested a Lincolnite. He was two days out from Cape Girardeau. Says they intend taking possession of this place when Thompson’s men disband. A lady from Charleston on Wednesday reported 1,000 troops there; that they were conversant with matters here, and expressed the same intention. Latest accounts are, all the Federal pickets drawn in from near Charleston.

I hope in the hurried statement of the facts above I shall not be understood as censuring or reflecting upon any one. It is quite foreign to my nature or purpose.

In haste, your obedient servant,

E. W. GANTT Commanding Fort.

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[Received WAR DEPARTMENT, C. S. A., Dec. 21, 1861.]

List of forces under command of Brig. Gen. Ben. McCulloch, commanding at Fort Smith, Ark.

P. O. Hébert, Third Louisiana Infantry; strength, 757; present, 584.

E. McNair, Fourth Arkansas Regiment; strength, 587; present, 397.

{p.719}

Mitchell, Fourteenth Arkansas Infantry; strength, 939; present, 891.

Churchill, First Arkansas Mounted Rifles; strength, 882; present, 682.

McIntosh, Second Arkansas Mounted Rifles; strength, 722; present, 553.

E. Greer, Third Texas Cavalry; strength, 1,020; present, 747.

B. Warren Stone, Sixth Texas Cavalry; strength, 935; present, 865.

Whitfield, Texas battalion cavalry; strength, 339; present, 315.

McRae, Texas battalion infantry; strength, 358; present, 228.

Good, Texas battery artillery; strength, 109; present, 103.

Hart, Arkansas battery artillery; strength, 75; present, 75.

Provence, Arkansas battery artillery; strength, 73; present, 73.

Bennett, Texas company cavalry; strength, 83; present, 78.

Nine companies Arkansas infantry; strength, 585; present, 585; now being organized into a regiment.

Ten companies Arkansas infantry; strength, 650; present, 650; now being organized into a regiment.

Sims, Texas regiment cavalry; not yet reported.

Young, Texas regiment cavalry; strength, 850; present, 850; not yet reported.

Total strength present and absent, 8,964; total strength present, 7,676.

Colonels Sims’ and Young’s and nineteen companies infantry reported since November 1, 1861.

FRANK C. ARMSTRONG, Adjutant-General of Division.

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RICHMOND, VA., December 25, 1861.

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

SIR: I call your special attention to the inclosed slip,* containing important news, in the main reliable, from the Indian country.

I do not believe that Hopoeithlayohola has with him more than 2,000 or 3,000 men, but I suppose may have increased to the latter number.

The dispersion of Colonel Drew’s Cherokee regiment I have no doubt is truly reported, but I do not believe that many of his men have joined the malcontents, and attribute the dispersion of the regiment to the reluctance of the Cherokees to fight against their neighbors, the Creeks. I found that feeling strong among them in October, when the regiment was called together to march into the Creek country to the aid of Colonel McIntosh’s Creek regiment, then threatened by Hopoeithlayohola. The adjutant of the regiment spoke freely to me of his reluctance to do so, and I did not doubt that he only uttered the sentiments of the people.

The Cherokees and Creeks are neighbors, and the former are very desirous of maintaining their present friendly relations. They have long had a treaty between themselves by which they can settle in each other’s country, and many of each nation are domiciled and married in the country of the other. The Cherokees naturally fear that if they fight any part of the Creeks the feud will last between them for many years after our difficulties are settled.

I was very reluctant to employ Indians against Indians, and especially {p.720} Creeks against Creeks, but I had no alternative. When I was informed of Hopoeithlayohola’s intentions to fight, I could do no more than request Colonel Drew and Colonel Cooper to march to the assistance of Colonel McIntosh; but my reluctance to send Indians against Indians was lessened by the sanguine hope that the presence of such a force would disperse the hostiles without a fight.

In May last I recommended the Government to send into the Indian country, under command of General McCulloch, three regiments of white troops, to be united to three regiments of Indians. It was palpable to me that we ought to give the Indians ocular evidence of our power and means to hold their country by the actual presence of a body of our own troops. I never thought of holding the country and repelling invasion from Kansas by an Indian force alone.

The force suggested by me was assigned to General McCulloch, but the intended neutrality of the Cherokees caused him to decline entering the Indian country; so that up to this time he has never had a soldier there, with the exception of two or three Texas regiments in transitu and Colonel Sims’ regiment, now with Colonel Cooper.

The Creek and Choctaw regiments were raised in August and the Cherokee regiment in October; but it was a long time before Colonel Cooper’s regiment was even partially armed. No arms were furnished the others; no pay was provided for any of them, and with the exception of a partial supply for the Choctaw regiment, no tents, clothing, or camp and garrison equipage were furnished to any of them.

Without any force of our own in the country I labored under great disadvantages in treating with the Indians and these caused great delay. The battle of Oak Hills had, however, a great effect, especially with the Cherokees; but it was at the same time unfortunate that even after that it was not in our power to place a force of our own troops in the Indian country.

I raised a company of Creeks, and placed it at the North Fork village to watch the movements of the discontented, and authorized the Seminole chief to raise a battalion of his people. I advised the Department and the quartermaster at Fort Smith of this, but no steps were ever taken to muster either into the service or to pay them.

I employed an escort of 64 men which was discharged about the 20th of September, with over $2,000 due the men for pay. They still continue unpaid, Treasury notes having been sent out to pay them within the last two weeks.

I had incurred debts for the Government to traders and individual Indians, and my drafts in their favor on the Government were protested and remained unpaid until after I left the Indian country. At Fort Smith I received $20,000 in Treasury notes, and had either to remain there an indefinite time in order to take up the drafts or deposit the money at my own risk with an individual to pay them. Of course I elected the latter. I do not mention these circumstances by way of complaint or fault-finding, but that the Secretary of War may comprehend the reasons that have gone so far to produce not only discontent, but suspicion and mistrust, among the Indians. Added to the unavoidable delay in completing the treaties and the additional delay in procuring their ratification and the transmission of the moneys due under the treaties, the circumstances that I have mentioned have not unnaturally produced the impression that what I have done amounts to nothing; that the Government does not sanction what I have done, and that it has not the men or the means to hold the Indian country.

Emissaries from Kansas have been among the Indians since the treaties {p.721} were made, to promise them their moneys and to convince them that the Confederate States cannot maintain themselves, protect the Indians, nor secure them their moneys; and persons from some of the tribes have been in Kansas, holding a council with General Hunter. The Kansas Indians also have been operating upon our own Indians and sowing discontent among them, until all that was effected this summer is in a fair way to be overturned.

The Congress has now ratified the treaties, with amendments, and has appropriated the moneys to be paid under them. I have procured the moneys for the payment of the troops and other expenses of the Quartermaster’s Department, and $25,000 for the purchase of arms; and as soon as the moneys under the treaties are ready to send out to the superintendent I wish to proceed to the Indian country. It will be of no use for me to go there without the money. It should be there, ready to be paid over the moment each treaty is ratified. This, I think, will go a great way to settle the existing discontent, remove suspicion, and keep the Indians in our service. But I wish particularly to represent that it is absolutely indispensable that a force of our own troops should be placed in that country, of at least three regiments, well armed and efficient. Since the disbanding of Colonel Drew’s regiment there are but three Indian regiments, averaging, perhaps, 700 men each, and only partially and indifferently armed. Of these the Cherokee regiment of Col. Stand Watie, composed of original Southern-rights men, mostly half-breeds, and which would cheerfully have fought the discontented Creeks, has been all the time under General McCulloch’s orders, and i