Headquarters, Pocahontas, July 28,1861.

Maj. Gen. Leonidas Polk,

Commanding Department N~o. 2, Memphis, Tenn.:

General: The Fifth Regiment of Arkansas Volunteers, commanded by Colonel Cross, has been removed from the Saint Francis to this place. Chalk Bluff has been considered a point of importance. A force has been stationed there to guard Crowly's Bridge, by which an advance might be made into Arkansas. If New Madrid is occupied, there will be, in my opinion, no necessity of occupying Chalk Bluff; and, indeed, with the force I have at Pitman's Ferry, I do not believe an invasion can be anticipated in that direction. If it should be attempted, I shall be in position to attack their rear.

I have had a courier from General Price, commanding the Missouri forces, also one from General McCulloch, advising me of their intention to move on Springfield, Mo., and asking my active co-operation. I was compelled to decline. The forces hero are just in a transition state; only a portion has been transferred, and to-day I have less than 2,300 men under my command. When all are transferred I shall have only about 5,000, and these are badly equipped, and without discipline, without instruction, and without transportation. General McCulloch stated that he contemplated moving on Springfield about the 30th instant, where it is supposed General Lyon has a force of 12,000 men.

I have sent you a requisition for supplies; among other articles mentioned are wagons and harness. Since writing I have directed Captain Crump, one of the officers of my command, who is now at Vicksburg, to buy fifty wagons, with harness and mules, complete, and to call on you through your quartermaster for funds to make the payment. I learn that transportation, including what is mentioned above, may be had at Vicksburg, Natchez, and New Orleans. I shall send this communication, with others, by express to Memphis, and in a few days I shall make my arrangements for communicating with you by express twice a week, and oftener if necessary.