P.G.T. Beauregard to CoopEr, C. 8S. Army, June 15, 1862
Tupelo, Miss., June 15, 1862.
GENERAL:
After delaying as long as possible to obey the oft-repeated recommendations of my physicians to*take some rest for the restoration of my health, I have concluded to take advantage of the present lull in the cperatious of this army, due to the necessity of attending to its organization and discipline and to the uncertain move ments of the enemy, for absenting myself a short while from here, hoping to be back in time to assume the offensive at the earliest moment practicable. Meanwhile I will transfer the command of the forces of this department to the next officer in ranaâGeneral B. Braggâfurnishing him with such instructions as will enable iim to give all orders required during my absence.
I propose leaving here to-morrow at 12 p. m. for Mobile, where I will remain a day or two inspecting the condition of its defenses, and will offer to Brigadier-General Forney such advice as, in my judgment, may be necessary and he may be willing to accept. I will then repair to Bladonâs Springs, on the Tombigbee River, about 75 miles north of Mobile, where I will remain about one week or ten days, or long enough to restore my shattered health.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
General, Commanding.
General 8. CoopEr, C. 8S. Army,
Adjutant-General, Richmond, Va.
{Inclosure.]}