William R. Boggs to J. B. Magruder, May 29, 1863

Maj. Gen. J. B. MAGRUDER, Commanding, Le. :

GENERAL: In reply to Major Hart’s letter, I am directed by Lieutenant-General Smith to say that it will be impossible to furnish Major Hart with the necessary funds for the purchase of cotton at the present time; that he does not feel justified in drawing on the depositories until he can hear from Richmond. He suggests that you have the power to control the cotton, now being so rapidly carried out of the State, by impressing the transportation; and that you can also control your own supply of cotton by impressing so much as you need, giving purchase vouchers for it.

Lieutenant-General Smith desires to confer with Major Hart, and, if his duties will permit it, will you direct him to report in person at these headquarters?

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,