James B. McPherson to Thomas Stephens, August 22, 1863

Col. THOMAS STEPHENS, Commanding Second Wisconsin Cavalry :

COLONEL: In view of. the fact that your command is very much reduced at present by detaching three companies, you will move your camp and sick to some good point within 2 or 3 miles of this place. The main portion of your effective force will be kept, however, in bivouac in the vicinity of Red Bone Church, which is the best point from which to watch and guard the ferries and fords across the Big Black. By having your men out in bivouac and changing their location every day or so, you will be able to guard against any surprise on the part of the enemy, and can perhaps more effectually watch his movements, and carpe and cut off any small detachment which ventures on this side of the river.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,