E. Kirby Smith to Richard Taylor, May 21, 1863

GENERAL:

Since my letter to you yesterday, I have seen a gentleman, Dr. Taylor, from within the enemy’s lines near New Carthage. I have directed him to leave on the boat for your headquarters with his information. Iam convinced an opportunity offers for striking a blow which may affect the whole result of the campaign in the west. The Tensas is, I believe, navigable to the Mill road, between Richmond and Monroe; the waters have fallen so that a march across to the Mississippi is now practicable. The passage of Bayou Vidal is the only obstacle it can be bridged or rafted, should the bridge at Richmond be not secured tous. Ifthe move can be made promptly, you will, I feel assured, meet with no opposition. Dr. Taylor informs me the line was guarded by convalescents and some negro troops; no danger was anticipated.

If the enemy’s gunboats hold the mouth of Black River, the shipment of troops from Alexandria by water will be impracticable; in any event it will be attended with some hazard. By courier to Monroe, the boats in the Washita can be brought to Harrisonburg or Le Croix Ferry in sufficient number to transport Walker’s whole division.

You must weigh the matter well in all its bearings; if at all practicable, undertake the expedition. Should General Banks have fallen back toward New Orleans, or, what is more probable, be endeavoring to cross the Mississippi, it is the proper disposition of your command. The amount of stores, munitions, and provisions exposed to capture is great. The holding of Bayou Vidal for ten days endangers Grant’s whole army. Should he in the meantime have been defeated, it insures his destruction.

Tinclose you a memorandum of distances; also a sketch from the map of Madison Parish ;* they may be of use till better can be obtained.

There are still five boats here which can be sent below, if you desire it. I think you have transportation sufficient for Walker’s division.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,