S. S. Anderson to J. B. Magruder, June 10, 1863

Mason: I am instructed by the lieutenant-general, commanding to direct you to order at once all the disposable troops in the District of

44 W. FLA., S. ALA., 8. MISS., L. A., TEX., N. MEX. (Cuar. XXXVIIL

Louisiana not with Major-General Taylor to operate opposite Port Hudson. His wish is that the troops sent may be so dispersed and may so act as to create a diversion in favor of our besieged garrison at Port Hudson. Every effort should be made to cut off the enemy’s supplies, if he attempts to obtain any by the western bank of the river. It seems to the general perfectly practicable that such supplies should be eut off. I inclose you a copy of a letter from General Johnston.*

I have the honor to be, major, your obedient servant,