E. K. Kirby Smith to Nathaniel P. Banks, July 11, 1863

GENERAL:

I have received your communication from Delhi, announeing the reported fall of Vicksburg. Should this report be confirmed, Grant’s army will probably be directed eastward. Louisiana must expect invasion by Banks’ force in the direction of Berwick Bay or Simsport. Alexandria or Natchitoches are better positions for your division. Tappan’s brigade, Parsons’ cavalry, and the force originally operating in Northeastern Louisiana must suffice for the present defense of that region. As soon as the fall of Vicksburg is verified, you will move with your division without delay to Alexandria. Your best route from Delhi is to march direct to Harrisonburg, and if the river is not safe and transportation available, march from that point across to Alexandria. Should you, whilst en route, find that the enemy have moved up Red River and occupied Alexandria, you will change your course, and make Natchitoches the objective point of your march. At Alexandria or Natchitoches you will await the orders of General Taylor.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,