Jno. Pope, June 12, 1862

You will take post with your brigade and battery of artillery at Rienzi. As you will probably occupy that position for some time you will be careful to select a strong position for your command, and throw up such earthworks as may be necessary to enable you to make a vig: orous defense against any assault until the troops from this place can be advanced to your support. The cavalry is posted in front of you as follows: At Blackland one battalion, with a strong picket at Baldwyn; one battalion at Booneville, with a strong picket at the lower crossing of Twenty Mile Creek, and one cavalry regiment at Jacinto. I send youa sketch * of the country, exhibiting the position of the forces. The commanding officers are instructed to keep you informed of all matters of importance which may become known to them. You will keep me advised fully and frequently of all matters pertaining to your command, and transmit any important news from the cavalry advance by telegraph. I have directed a telegraph operator to report to you, and open an office at Rienzi. Although there is little to be apprehended from a flying and demoralized enemy, I nevertheless enjoin upon you the utmost vigilance. You will keep your command well in hand, and adopt every precaution usual in the face of an enemy. Tam, general,

respectfully, your obedient servant,