One hundred fifty years ago, on May 11, 1864, some fallout from - TopicsExpress



          

One hundred fifty years ago, on May 11, 1864, some fallout from the failed Camden Expedition: HDQRS. DISTRICT OF NORTHEASTERN ARKANSAS, Jacksonport, Ark., May 11, 1864. Lieut. Col. JOHN W. STEPHENS, Eleventh Mo. Cav., Comdg. Post of Batesville, Ark.: COLONEL: I deem it proper to inform you that, owing to the reverses met by General Steeles army, I consider it likely that the enemy, flushed with victory, will cut off his communication again to harass his various outposts. I may deem it best for you to evacuate Batesville, and should you find it necessary to do so fall back upon this point. For this reason I consider it right that you should be ready to move here at any moment. Be wary of the enemy; keep advised of his movements; he may not cross Little Red, but I feel certain that he will, and that we will have warm work before long. Kirby Smith is an enterprising general and no sluggard. When you evacuate, if compelled to do so, let it only be either in view of the approach of largely superior numbers and secretly, or after repulsing the enemy by day, work out in the night, leaving your lights hung to deceive him. Try and at old letting the enemy steal a march on you. Press every serviceable horse in the country and send them down here to the district quartermaster. Mares are now included in cavalry service. Ponies are not. I cannot adequately caution you against the enemys movements. Your own shrewdness, enterprise, and daring must help you through. Dont be afraid to send very small parties of bold, self-reliant men to the southwest of where you are after knowledge of the enemys movements, and keep me thoroughly advised of all that transpires. I will never surrender, and hope noticing will permit you to either. Better to perish with honor and glory than survive disgrace. God bless you, colonel, and stand up to the work for the flag General Washington bequeathed us. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, R. R. LIVINGSTON, Colonel First Regimen! Nebraska Cavalry, Comdg. Dist.
Posted on: Sun, 11 May 2014 16:00:01 +0000

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