Gilman Marston to Aap. Xli Correspondence, Etc. Union, October 21, 1863

You will, with 1 commissioned officer and 106 men of your command, proceed by way of the Three Notched road to Leonardtown, in the county of Saint Mary’s, at which place you will establish your headquarters. You are charged with the duty of suppressing contraband trade and all disloyal practices, arresting deserters and esepee prisoners, and preserving the public peace. The more effectually to accomplish these objects, you will send small detachments of your force to Charlotte Hall, Chaptico, the mouth of the Patuxent River, and such other points as you may deem necessary. All blockade runners you will cause to be arrested, their goods seized and sent to this point.

It is reported that some persons are now engaged near the mouth of the Patuxent and above there in enlisting into the military service slaves and free persons of color without proper authority from the War Department. You willinquire into the matter, and if you find such to be the case you will cause them immediately to desist oe to leave this military district forthwith, if they are not residents

You will take with you rations and forage for three days, and afterward supplies will be sent to Leonardtown for your detachment. I desire that you will be particularly careful that no depredations are committed by any of the men under your command upon the property of any person whatever.

ou will report by mail as often as every other day.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,