NA, DMEL 2/7/1863

Hd. Qrs. Dept. Miss & E La
Jackson Feb 7 1863
 
Messrs N. R. Jennings
Geo. Fearn                       Committee
 
Gentlemen,
   In reply to your letter of the 2d Feby embodying a resolution of the Board of Directors of the N. O. J. & G. N. RR {New Orleans, Jackson & Great Northern RR} in relation to the defence of the Eastern District of La., I regret to say that I have no troops at present available for that purpose. You are aware I presume that the enemy in much superior force to that I am able to bring against him, has been for some time past and is now threatening the two most important and military positions in this Department. In the present juncture of affairs the possession of the district of country to which you refer would in my opinion be of little value to the enemy, as it has no advantages as a base of operations, which are not exceeded by points within his control on the Miss River. It must be evident to you that any force sent to protect the Lake shore of La or Gulf Counties of Miss, must by so much weaken the more important positions of Port Hudson and Vicksburg. To protect local and private interests is always a duty incumbent, when it can be done without prejudice to more general or vital interests, but the forces must not in any manner interfere to the prejudice of the latter. In my opinion the disposition of a sufficient force to ensure protection to the Lake shore is at this time incompatible with the safety of more serious interests.
Very Resp &c
J. C. Pemberton
Lt Genl Comdg

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