Secretary of War:
SIR: I have the
honor to report that I arrived here on Saturday last, by order of General
Zollicoffer, and assumed command of this post on Sunday. I found stationed here
Colonel Wood's battalion and several companies of infantry and cavalry. There
seemed to be much uneasiness and apprehension felt in reference to the
disaffected portion of the population. I have put the city under military rule
and have restored peace and security.
I have detailed and
sent to the various districts where I had information there were any gatherings
of disaffected citizens and had them dispersed, and in many instances the
leaders arrested. As soon as possible, I dispatched companies of mounted men to
scour the country, with instructions to arrest and send here all persons who
were inciting rebellion or were found with arms, resisting the authorities. In
all instances where there was no proof of disloyalty I have discharged the
prisoners upon their taking the oath of allegiance.
There are now in
custody here about 70 persons, many of whom, it, is believed, were either
directly or indirectly connected with the burning of the railroad bridges.
Colonel Wood, who was in command here before my arrival, had in contemplation a
court-martial for the trial of those upon whom proof of guilt seemed to be
strong. I concurred with him, and ordered the meeting on the 28th. The board
will be composed of some of the most intelligent officers within this post, and
I have no doubt their action will be prudent and discreet.
It is important that
steam-power should be secured for the purpose of driving the machinery
necessary in the alteration of arms. I therefore took possession of the
printing establishment of Brownlow. The steam-engine and building are suitable
for our purposes, and it was the only one that could be procured here. Brownlow
has left, and no certain information of his whereabouts can be obtained; it is,
however, certain that he is aiding and abetting our enemies. I have assured his
sons, who profess to have sold the establishment to a Mr. Baxter, that full
indemnity for the use of the establishment would be paid by the Government. I
have every assurance that the sale to Baxter was a false one, and feel that
Baxter is not reliable in his loyalty to our Government.
In obedience to your
instructions, Novemeber 22, I have given orders that all contracts for hogs or
cattle made with the agents of the Confederate Government shall be complied
with, and have dispatched several armed parties to see that it is properly
executed.
There are 1,140
sacks of salt here. I have directed 400 sacks should be delivered to D. Morris
& Co. and 400 sacks to Wilson & Johnson. This is sufficient to meet
their present wants, and the balance will be returned, to meet such other
demands as may arise. I will report to you again soon.
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