the morning. I have written General Lawler. My command will be placed in readiness to march as soon as practicable. Please send me directions as soon as possible by bearer of this communication.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

RICHARD ARNOLD,

Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF, Near Simsport, May 19, 1864.

Brigadier General RICHARD ARNOLD,
Commanding, &c.:

GENERAL: The rear and flank movement contemplated by your instructions, and referred to you in your dispatch of this morning, will be executed whenever the enemy shall advance to attack our forces in front of the Yellow Bayou. The cavalry and infantry should be in position to take advantage of any movement which they may make during the day of an offensive character. It is not intended that our troops shall take the offensive.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. B. DRAKE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

NEAR SIMSPORT, May 19, 1864.

Brigadier General R. ARNOLD,

Chief of Cavalry:

GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose, by direction of the general, a letter regarding the movement, which will answer your query. The original was sent some time since. General Smith has been ordered to hold the position occupied by him yesterday, or fall back to the Yellow Bayou, whichever, in his judgment, may seem best. General Emory has been directed to support General Smith in case a demonstration is made upon him. There are no other co-operating movements.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

GEO. B. DRAKE,

Assistant Adjutant-General.

HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF, Simsport, May 19, 1864.

Brigadier General RICHARD ARNOLD,
Chief of Cavalry:

GENERAL: I am directed to inform you, in answer to your note just received, that the commanding general desires all the wagon trains to cross before any of the troops cross.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

C. S. SARGENT,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.