HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,
J. Stern's Plantation, May 12, 1864-12.45 a. m.

General LAWLER,

Commanding Thirteenth Corps:

GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs that your order Landram's division of your command, re-enforced by two good regiments, to press forward to this point at once. it is of the utmost importance that Colonel Landram's command reach here as soon as possible. On his arrival Colonel Landram will report to these headquarters for orders.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WILLIAM DWIGHT,

Brigadier-General, Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,
Alexandria, La., Ma 12, 1864.

Brigadier General M. K. LAWLER,

Commanding Thirteenth Army Corps:

The commanding general directs that the troops and transportation of your command on the other side of the river be at once withdrawn to this side.

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

GEO. B. DRAKE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,
Alexandria, May 12, 1864.

Brigadier General FITZ HENRY WARREN,

Commanding U. S. Forces, near Fort De Russy:

GENERAL: The naval fleet have passed the rapids safely. The army moves toward Marksville to-morrow; we shall probably attack the enemy about 5 o'clock to-morrow afternoon. There are about 2,000 cavalry on north bank of river under Leddell and Harrison, main body on south bank under Taylor. The commanding general directs that you move with vigor upon the rear of the enemy upon either bank of the river. Your judgment and information may advise keeping near the gun-boats, if you move on any force superior to your own.

W. DWIGHT,

Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,
Alexandria, May 12, 1864.

Brigadier-General EMORY,

Commanding Nineteenth Army Corps:

GENERAL: The commanding general directs that you move at 7 o'clock in the morning, in accordance with verbal instructions given you this evening.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. B. DRAKE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.