Letter

Jno. Pope to John A. Logan, June 12, 1862

Near Danville, June 12, 1862.

Brig. Gen. A, ASBOTH: 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,

Major-General, Commanding.

[JUNE 12, 1862.—For Halleck to Stanton, in reference to Beauregard’s

movements and operations in Arkansas, West Teraessee, North Mississippi, and against Vicksburg, see Series I, Vol. XVI, Part II, p. 14.]

HEADQUARTERS RESERVES, Camp Bethel, June 12, 1862.

GENERAL: It is reported that some 500 rebel cavalry are marching

on Decaturville for the purpose of burning the cotton at that place.

Editor's Notes
From: Operations in West Tennessee and Mississippi, Pt. 1. Location: Near Danville. Summary: General Pope orders Brigadier General Asboth to fortify and hold Rienzi with his brigade and artillery, coordinating cavalry positions and maintaining communication via telegraph for defense and support.
Sources
The War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 17, Part 1 View original source ↗