Oxford Nov 19/63

 

My Dear Father

                                    I have just read your note to me & also that to Maj Arent—

 

            As I wrote you this morning I am not certain what effect Genl Johnstons order will have on Arents authority to send cotton North of the Tallahatchie as on the permission heretofore granted to you to take some for the benefit of the R.R.—Genl C is out of town now. he will return tonight. when he does I will talk to him about it. & also as to the propriety of bringing cotton up to this side of Tallahatchie.

 

            Arents authority consists I believe of a letter from Maj Mims in which he says that he is authorised by the Secy of War to permit Arent to exchange the government cotton in this county for goods provided they it is not traded to the enemy. He has telegraphed to the War Dept asking permission to use cotton from other Cos but has received no reply. Genl C has written to Genl Johnston setting out these facts & asking whether this trade shall be allowed to be continued

 

            Our last information is that the enemy are guarding the rail road as far as Germantown to prevent trade

 

            I don’t want any cotton sent up just now It is safer I think where it is/

 

            Genl Lee is about to establish his Hd Qrs at [?] & will I fear pose an obstacle in the way of any trade.

 

            I am satisfied that the Morgans have no right to any hog or any thing else on the farm & will write to prevent them from taking it unless they do it by stealing in which art I am inclined to think they are proficient.

 

            Send Emily up—

 

                                    Your Son        

                                                Walter—

SOURCES