Maj. to J. N. Archer, August 22, 1864

Capt. J. N. ARCHER, Commanding Post, Canton, Miss.:

CAPTAIN: Owing to the growing evil in this district of blockaderunning and the consequent demoralization of the inhabitants, and the few instances in which such parties are brought before the authorities, it is thought that the scouts, whose duty it is to guard against such violations of the law, must have become to a great extent demoralized and particeps criminis with the persons engaged in unlawful trade with the enemy.

As an officer of the Confederate Government desirous of seeing this evil checked, I would suggest that the scouts now serving here be

removed at least once a month, and in this connection I would state that I am organizing a company from men between forty-five and fifty years of age, of planters loyal and true to the Government, who are willing to mount and equip themselves and to perform police in addition to conscript duty in the Yazoo Valley.

I would respectfully suggest through you that this company be assigned to this service, as I am fully satisfied from the character of the men composing it that they would in all instances execute a rigid enforcement of the law without favor to any one, and thus to some extent secure the end so much desired.

Iam, captain, with respect,

your obedient servant,