Unknown to Hamilton P. Bee, August 15, 1863

Brig. Gen. H. P. BEE, Commanding Western Sub-District :

Sir: I am directed by the major-general commanding to say to you that Colonel Buchel’s regiment and that portion of Woods’ regiment in supporting distance of Saluria are ordered to carry out the instructions as issued and received by them from these headquarters. The disaffection exhibited at Waco and Austin, and the recent mutinous disposition shown at Galveston by the troops in garrison, render it absolutely necessary that the orders from these headquarters should be fully carried out.

In case that Saluria and Velasco should be taken by the enemy, it would necessitate the evacuation of Galveston, which is now strongly fortified, and for this reason these orders have been issued from these headquarters removing Colonel Buchel’s regiment and a portion of Colonel Woods’ to this district.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,