E. Kirby Smith to J. B. Magruder, May 19, 1863

Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, &c., Houston, Tex.:

GENERAL: By courier from General Taylor, I learn that General Banks is evacuating Alexandria. He will fal] back toward Berwick Bay, or, what I most fear, will shift his command to Simsport on the Atchafalaya, and will embark to the assistance of Grant for an attack on Port Hudson. In either case he will anticipate the arrival of our re-enforcements, and will retire without our being able to seriously impede him.

This change in General Banks’ operations renders the concentration of a force near Nacogdoches in Eastern Texas unnecessary. The infantry command should not be moved from Niblett’s Bluff, but should rather be strengthened by any troops of that arm that may be disposable. If the enemy fall back in the direction of Berwick Bay, holding the Opelousas country, the force at Niblett’s Bluff is in position to co-operate with Geneval Taylor’s command in offensive operations.

I feel some concern for the safety of that portion of Eastern Texas on the Upper Red River. Ido not know what your resources may be, or what precautions you may have taken, but we may anticipate a raid this summer in that section from the Kansas frontier. You should give this matter a careful and prompt consideration, and take such steps asi may be in your power to meet this danger. I will send to that sec12 W. FLA., S. ALA., 8. MISS., L. A. TEX., N. MEX. (Cwar. XXXVIIL

tion one or two of the cavalry regiments ordered to Louisiana as soon as they can be spared from General Taylor’s command. ieee I would suggest for your consideration the propriety of dividing the Sub-District of Eastern Texas, and of sending an efficient officer to the command of the Northern Sub-District. I am, general,

respectfully, yours,