CONFIDENTIAL.] WAR DEPARTMENT.
Washington City, October 29, 1862.
Major-General MCCLERNAND, Springfield, Ill.:
SIR: The importance of the expedition on the Mississippi is
every day becoming more manifest, and there will be the utmost
endeavor on the part of the Government to give it aid and
strength. In conversing with you I indicated the importance of
a coastwise expedition against Texas to aid you and create a
diversion of the enemy's force. Major-General Banks is now
organizing an expedition for that purpose, which will be in a
condition to co-operate with any movement that may be made,
after you have succeeded in clearing the Mississippi River.
I wish you to report as frequently as possible the progress
that you are making in organizing and sending forward troops,
specifying the number from each State.
Diligent attention should be given to providing yourself with
cavalry. I have authorized, and will give fresh authority if
needed, for raising any number of cavalry regiments.
Artillery has already been forwarded to Cairo, and you may
raise any number of artillery companies that you deem
necessary. These should be organized as independent companies,
to be attached to regiments separately or in battalions as
circumstances require. Artillery are not designed to have
regimental organization.
You will apprise me of your wants, which shall be promptly
supplied as far as may be in the power of the Department.
For your success time and diligence are, as you know,
important elements. Every confidence is reposed in your zeal
and skill, and I long to see you in the field striking
vigorous blows against the rebellion in its most vital point.
Yours, truly,
EDWIN M. STANTON,
Secretary of War.
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