with orders to report daily. I propose to rendezvous my command at Austin and push toward Clinton until I can hear where Fagan or Shelby is, when I will take them by detail or united, as the case may be. I have about 600 cavalry reconnoitering about Price now. I send you a copy of a dispatch* to General Washburn yesterday explaining situation, &c.

F. STEELE,

Major-General.

HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EASTERN ARKANSAS,
Helena, Ark., September 7, 1864.

Major W. H. MORGAN, Assistant Adjutant-General:

I inclose a letter from Captain Ferree, commanding Island 63. I have sent the Lexington down. The bearer, captain of steamer John Raine, reports all quiet and the Lexington at anchor. The Elwood is safe, and will be until you can send relief. I have a letter from Major-General Dana; all right. My scout is not in from Colonel Winslow's command.

With respects to the general, I am, major, yours, respectfully,

WM. CROOKS,

Colonel, Commanding.

[Inclosure.]

ISLAND 63, MISSISSIPPI RIVER,

September 6, 1864.

Colonel CROOKS, Commanding District of Eastern Arkansas:

COLONEL; I had scarcely arrived at this place this evening when I learned from good authority that Forrest and Chalmers, with their forces, were crossing Sunflower River, sixteen miles east of this place. Their scouts have been seen hovering around on the Mississippi side all day, and this afternoon one of Chalmers' staff was at Mr. Miffleton's, just opposite the fort. The plan is to take the island, and then General Smith's fleet as it comes up the river. Can you send me a gun-boat immediately? I will defend the island until the last extremity.

I remain, colonel, your very obedient servant,

S. G. FERREE,

Captain, Commanding Island 63, Mississippi River.

HDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, SEVENTH ARMY CORPS,
Devall's Bluff, Ark., September 7, 1864-10 a.m.

Major General F. STEELE, Little Rock:

There is room on the cars for all of Moore's brigade, the first train that goes out. I do not exactly understand whether you want them to take any wagon transportation. I do not think they have any. Please answer.

C. C. ANDREWS.

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

LITTLE ROCK, ARK., September 7, 1864.

Brigadier General C. C. ANDREWS, Devall's Bluff:

We shall need all the wagons you can spare at Brownsville for the campaign, but it is not material whether Colonel Moore's command or

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*See p. 82

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