[CHAP. XLIII.

MEMPHIS, December 23, 1863.

General GRIERSON,

La Grange:

There is a rumor that Forrest is starting south. I have nor heard from Smith, but he undoubtedly has moved. Close watch must be kept that he does not slip by you on some of the roads.

S. A. HURLBUT,

Major-General.

Major-General HURLBUT,

Memphis:

Patrols 16 miles south hear nothing of the enemy. A battalion will camp at Lamar to-night and move farther south to-morrow morning. Hurst is crossing the Hatchie en route from Pocahontas to Big Hill, and will join Mizner immediately. Have informed him of the rebel force between Corinth and Purdy.

B. H. GRIERSON,

Brigadier-General.

LA GRANGE, Tennessee, December 23, 1863.

Major-General HURLBUT,

Memphis:

Morgan is at Grand Junction. In view of the threatened attack on the road, I would suggest that a train be sent to that point sufficient to carry his command to any point it might be used.

B. H. GRIERSON,

Brigadier-General.

LA GRANGE, Tennessee,

December 23, 1863.

Major-General HURLBUT,

Memphis, Tennessee:

I have sent 500 men to Bolivar to watch all crossings on Hatchie. Have sent 200 south to feel of Chalmers. Have ordered Hurst to leave 100 men at Saulsbury and move the rest via Pocahontas to Purdy to join Mizner. Hold the rest of my force here.

B. H. GRIERSON,

Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS SEVENTEENTH ARMY CORPS,
Vicksburg, Miss., December 23, 1863.

Brigadier General W. Q. GRESHAM,

Commanding U. S. Forces, Natchez, Miss.:

GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 18th instant, suggesting the propriety of levying an assessment upon certain of the wealthy rebel families of Natchez to compensate Messrs. Merrill, Marshall, and Morton for