Unknown to His Excellency J. G. SHORTER, August 2, 1863

His Excellency J. G. SHORTER, Governor of Alabama:

Sir: I have just had the honor to receive your letter of the 28th ultimo. I telegraphed to you on the 24th July, and again this morning, in relation to the troops you have raised for Jocal defense. I can imagine no more appropriate service for them than repelling such a raid as you apprehend, and, therefore, promise that they shall be so employed, if service offers, as soon as they come under my control. Such other aid as may be necessary and practicable shall be given by the troops now in this department. But it would probably be advantageous to me in this connection to have any information in your possession of the probable force to be employed in this raid, and the point from which it is to move. I should also be glad to know what force you have raised under the President’s recent call, and its state of organization and location. Most

respectfully, your obedient servant,