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alluded to. I will receipt to the State for them & be responsible for them, or if you prefer the Confed: Governm^t. will account to you for them, as you may prefer

The Secty of war is anxious that this Battalion shall be gotten up, I will most probably put it into Service on the Coast. By giving this company the permission desired you will confer a very great favor upon many of your fellow citizens & Supporters—I have three other Companies nearly complete in Lowndes & Oktibbeha & probably one from Noxubee to join me—

When I reach Columbus, you will receive this evidence of my authority, & my wish supported by your most influential friends there—

An early reply will ^be^ most gratefully rec^d by

Your obt servt

Charles Baskervill

T. S.
Gov. Pettus

Sir,

I am cognizant of the facts contained in the above letter, and vouch for its author as a gentleman, in every way worthy your confidence

William H Vasser

Com. 14^th Regt. Miss. Vol.