NEW ORLEANS,

November 17, 1863.

Brigadier General H. W. BIRGE, Thibodeauxville:

GENERAL: Look well to your right flank. There are movements reported up the Grossetete, which require care. Cavalry may come down from that direction in force. I have ordered the troops in Berwick to cross to Brashear.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHAS. P. STONE,

Brigadier-General, and Chief of Staff.

NEW ORLEANS,

November 17, 1863.

Commanding Officer, Donaldsonville:

SIR: Look sharp toward Bayou Grossetete. Caution commanding officer at Plaquemine to the same effect. You will both please report to me by telegraph whether or not there are signs of assemblage or movement of the enemy in that direction.

Acknowledge receipt of this dispatch promptly.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHAS. P. STONE,

Brigadier-General, and Chief of Staff.

NEW ORLEANS,

November 17, 1863.

Colonel FISKE, Commanding at Donaldsonville:

COLONEL: It is reported that the enemy have crossed the Atchafalaya back of Morganza, and that some have moved down the Grossetete. Be vigilant and report frequently. Establish couriers between your post and General Birge.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHAS. P. STONE,

Brigadier-General, and Chief of Staff.

NEW ORLEANS,

November 17, 1863.

Brigadier-General LAWLER, Berwick or Brashear:

GENERAL: Throw what troops you have at Berwick across to Brashear immediately, and report by telegraph what strength you have.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHAS. P. STONE,

Brigadier-General, and Chief of Staff.

NEW ORLEANS,

November 17, 1863.

Senior Naval Officer, near Donaldsonville:

SIR: Is there any gunboat at Plaquemine? If not, can one be sent there? There is information that the enemy are on the Grossetete, above that point.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

CHAS. P. STONE,

Brigadier-General, and Chief of Staff.