CHAP.XI.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. - CONFEDERATE.

also deserted and crossed into Mexico, notwithstanding I have taken every precaution in my power to prevent it.

I make this statement not only from a sense of duty, but for the purpose of requesting that the other companies raised to complete this regiment may be selected and composed of an entirely different class of men; that, if enough companies cannot be found to volunteer for this service (the Rio Grande), the commanding general may be induced to send down some of the companies stationed in the reserve camps. We need me of character and intelligence, who have an interest in the success of our cause and country, and who cannot be bribed or enticed to desert.

I have strong hopes of being able to arrest some of those who have deserted. Indeed, I now have one, against whom charges will be preferred and forwarded without delay.

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

A. BUCHEL, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding.

INDIANOLA, TEX., December 6, 1861

Major SAMUEL BOYER DAVIS, Act. Asst. Adjt. General , Dep't of Texas, Galveston, Tex.;

SIR: In compliance with Special Orders, Numbers 146, dated Headquarters Department of Texas, Galveston, November 16, 1861, which was received at Camp Henry McCulloch, November 28, 1861, I have the honor to report that,upon a thorough reconnaissance of this place as well as the coast between this and Pass Cavallo, in my judgment no disposition can be made of the forces under my command in their present state of organization and appointment, so as to defend any portion of the immediate coast or afford any material aid in preventing vessels from entering this bay. This place is pretty much abandoned, and I believe such is the case with most all the towns and villages adjacent to the coast. The point selected by Captain Shea to establish his battery is in my opinion the proper position to command the entrance to the bay and if properly constructed under the supervision of an experienced engineer officer and suitably appointed, could be made to accomplish that object; but in its present condition it is totally inadequate for this purpose, and should be immediately withdrawn, or put in a condition, not only to command the Pass, but to be capable of defending itself from attack by sea or land. On account of its isolated position it is totally cut off from any support from any quarter whatever, and, if attacked with heavy metal or a superior force, either by sea of land (and it is open to attack either way or both at the same time) it must inevitably fall into the hands of the enemy, as I can conceive of no possible way of withdrawing them in the presence of an enemy on account of several impassable bayous.

I also inclose a report of ordnance and ordnance stores pertaining to Captain Shea's command. The captain appears to be an energetic and industrious officer, and his command is in a fair state of discipline and instruction.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

R.R. GARLAND, Colonel, Provisional Army.