Geo. B. Drake to Joun A. RAwuins, August 20, 1863

You are directed by Major-General Hartsuff to detail a guard of the arrival of the column or until the receipt of further instructions. Place a reliable officer in charge of this detail, with instructions to so make his arrangements as to perfectly protect the herd. The country in front must be patrolled thoroughly, and every precaution taken to prevent surprise or accident. On the march and after arriving at Chitwood’s the commanding officer of this detail must use his best endeavors to acquaint himself with the locality of any of the forces of the enemy near him, and so make his dispositions as to insure the objects stated above. have the honor to be,

very respectfully, your obedient servant,