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ahead of the column. Information must be gathered in regard to the crossings of the river,
so that should we be repulsed on the south side we will know where to cross at the nearest
point. All mills must be bumed and the canal destroyed, and also everything which can be
used by the rebels must be destroyed, including the boats on the river. Should a ferry-boat be
seized and can be worked, have it moved down. Keep the force on the south side posted of
any important movement of the enemy, and in case of danger some of the scouts must swim
the river and bring us information. As we approach the city, the party must take great care
that they do not get ahead of the other party on the south side, and must conceal themselves
and watch our movements. We will try and secure the bridge to the city (one mile below
Belle Island) and release the prisoners at the same time. If we do not succeed, they must then
dash down, and we will try and carry the bridge from each side. When necessary, the men
must be filed through the woods and along the river bank. The bridges once secured and
the prisoners loose and over the river, the bridges will be secured and the city destroyed.
The men must keep together and well in hand, and once in the city, it must be destroyed, and
Jeff Davis and his Cabinet killed. Pioneers will go along with combustible material. The
officer must use his discretion about the time of assisting us. Horses and cattle which we do
not need immediately must be shot rather than left. Everything on the canal and elsewhere
of service to the rebels must be destroyed. As General Custer may follow me, be careful not
to give a false alarm.