J. Bankhead Magruder to E. Kirby Smith, June 29, 1863

Lieut. Gen. E. KirBy SMITH, Commanding Trans-Mississippi Department : GENERAL: In my letter of yesterday to Brigadier-General Boggs, your chief of staff, I stated that I desired to meet you at Rusk, Cherokee County, on or about the 15th of July, but, on reflection, I think it would be better to fix our day of meeting on the 20th, if agreeable to yourself, as the great amount of business requiring my immediate attention will detain me here until that time. I particularly desire this meeting, general, as there are many things I wish to consult with you upon besides the cotton question, which I could not do so fully on paper. I shall cheerfully and cordially second you in every respect, and I do not wish you to think that I fear any responsibility myself in writing to you and requesting you to give me authority to impress cotton, but rather regard it as an evidence of my desire to act in conformity whith your views first, and an assurance of my full and hearty support. Please let me know at your earliest convenience if you can meet me at Rusk on the 20th of July; and, if so, I will meet you promptly. Accept, my dear general, my kindest wishes for your health and success, and believe me, very faithfully, your friend and servant,

_J. BANKHEAD MAGRUDER.