| Head Quarters District of Texas &c. |
| Houston, October 6th 1863 |
| |
| Col. J. Bates |
| Condg &c at Velasco |
| |
| Major Genl Magruder directs
that you have relays of couriers from Velasco to Columbia
{about 20 miles}, and a hand car or
locomotive {on the Houston Tap & Brazoria RR}
at that point to communicate rapidly with this place any
information of the enemy, who may appear off the mouth of Brazos at any
moment, as certain information has been received of their having
embarked at Berwick Bay, and reports say destined for Texas. You will
order the Gunboat as well as the transport Steamer to Columbia, to take
troops to Velasco in case the enemy appears. |
| The line of couriers and hand
car or locomotive will be attended to at once. The other in case the
enemy appears. |
| I am, Colonel, Very Respty |
| Your Obt Svt |
| Wm Kearney |
| Major & A. Inspt Genl |
|