Unknown to Stephen A. Hurlbut, October 29, 1862
Jackson, October 29, 1862.
Major-General HURLBUT, Commanding District of Jackson :
I am just informed of a movement across the Hatchie of a large force of cavalry with some artillery and infantry under Bowen, evidently with the intention of getting on the river some place to intercept navigation. They are said to be now in the neighborhood of Brownsville. If this is so we will want to send one brigade of infantry with a section of artillery and all the cavalry that can be spared from here and Humboldt to get in their rear and cut them off.
The forces should move toward Brownsville until they found the direction of the enemy, and then pursue them by the most practicable route. They should go with very little baggage, taking three daysâ rations in haversacks and seven daysâ in wagons. Forage willhave to be obtained -on the route, giving receipts as provided for in general orders. This expedition should be conducted by an efficient officer.
U. S. GRANT, Major-General. 20 R R–VOL XVU, PT