Saml. R. Curtis, April 27, 1863

Major-General CuRTIS, Saint Louis, Mo. : Island No. 10 does not command the channel of the river opposite New Madrid. It is distant some 10 miles. If the enemy should make alodgment at New Madrid, and establish a battery, he would cut oft General Grant’s supplies until we could retake the place. It should not be given up. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. [DEPARTMENT OF THE Missouri, ] April 27, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLEOK, General-in-Chief, Washington, D. C.: General Vandever came on the enemy’s rear near Cape Girardeau last night and routed him, taking a large number of prisoners, horses, arms, &c. The enemy retreated toward Bloomfield in great disorder, pursued by the victorious and combined forces of Generals Vandever and McNeil. I have telegraphed General Asboth, at Columbus, asking him to strike a blow through New Madrid, to prevent or embarrass their escape. [SAML. R. CURTIS, Major-General. Saint Louis, Mo., April 27, 1863. General ASBOTH: If you can send force to Chalk Bluff, via New Madrid, you may take Marmaduke in flank, or cut off his retreat. Some artillery and cavalry would be necessary. The Little River Swamp would be the proper base to hold, while light troops act toward Chalk Bluff. New Madrid infantry will co-operate.*

SAML. R. CURTIS,