will be distributed at once and kept securely sheltered under tents and in charge of guards.

VII. Infantry pickets will be called in closer to the breastworks and be replaced by cavalry pickets. After the appearance of the enemy each brigade commander will post such guards as may be necessary to prevent surprise.

VIII. Rations will be cooked so as to keep two days ahead, and the men will have their haversacks supplied and canteens filled. Water battles at the breastworks will be filled.

IX. Each regiment will furnish its proportion of wall-tents for general infirmary, and medical officers will see that their little details properly provided.

By command of Major General Frank. Gardner:

T. FRIEND WILLSON,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

PORT HUDSON, March 15, 1863.

General PEMBERTON:

We have burned one gunboat in front of Port Hudson. The others have gone back.

FRANK. GARDNER,

Major-General.

PORT HUDSON, March 15, 17863 - 2 a. m.

Lieutenant-General PEMBERTON:

One gunboat passed at 12 m. She returned our fire boldly. Don't know if we hit her. Steamboats have started.

FRANK. GARDNER,

Major-General.

PORT HUDSON, March 15, 1863.

Lieutenant-General PEMBERTON:

Gunboat fight lasted heavily from 11 to 2. All came up within range Hartford and Monongahela passed crippled. Mississippi bunted. Richmond disabled and sent back. Our loss very small. Forces by land advanced, but all is quiet this morning.

FRANK. GARDNER,

Major-General.

SPECIAL ORDERS,
HEADQUARTERS, No. 76. Port Hudson, La., March 15, 1863.

* * * * * * *

II. Brigadier General A. Buford, having reported for duty at this post, in accordance with Special Orders, No. 68, from Headquarters Department of Mississippi and East Louisiana, is assigned to the command of a brigade, to consist of Tenth Arkansas, Third Kentucky, Seventh Kentucky, Edwards' consolidated Alabama regiment, Snodgrass' consulated Alabama regiment, and the Watson Battery of four pieces, from Rust's brigade.

18 R R-VOL XV