| Tuscumbia, Ala., February 17, 1862 |
| J. P. Benjamin |
| |
|
The Kentucky line of defenses has been lost, with
a large part of our army. The line from Memphis to Virginia must now
be defended at all hazards. To do this we must have armies at
Corinth and Knoxville. To supply these armies, what remains of
Johnston's forces, Columbus, the Gulf, the seaboard, and Virginia
must be drawn; better lose the seaboard than this line. The Memphis
& Charleston Road is the vertebrae of the Confederacy, and there
are no troops for its defense. In a week the enemy can threaten it
from Eastport, within 8 miles, and Hamburg, within 22 miles, with
50,000 men, unless large forces are immediately sent to its
protection. The people will abandon the country to the occupation of
the enemy. |
| With great respect I suggest
these views, and urgently ask for immediate action. |
| L. P. Walker |
| Brigadier-General |
|