Unknown to John A. McClernand, July 27, 1862

General MCCLERNAND: I misunderstood Dollins’ messenger. The facts are as follows: The ferry-boats at Brownsville, Estanaula, and at the steam-mill ferry are destroyed. Dollins’ skirmish took place at the ferry known as Lower Post, only 5 miles from Toone’s Station. ane

General MoCLERNAND:

I have all our teams engaged in hauling cotton for fortifications. By morning they will be in good condition for us.

Our pickets have been fired on, on the two roads leading west, but all quiet at present.

The citizens nearly all wish to leave, but I have refused to allow them to do so for fear of their carrying information. I may let them go in the morning. Had I better do so? eee