Nov 11, 1862 [from page 96 M L Smith CSR file]-Capt Marshall McDonald replies to charges made by Geo. D. Alexander, Major of Artillery-McDonald to Capt Devereaux AAG of 2nd Dist-
…received …. From the Brigadier General commanding to reply to so much of Major Alexander’s letter as has personal application to myself. I would respectfully submit the following statement of facts.
Previous to the arrival here of Major Alexander w/ordnance stores for Gen Holmes, I had obtained permission from Gen Smith to send the steamer Paul Jones to Natchez after bituminous coal to be used in Government ... here and in the arsenal at Jackson.
The boat had returned and the crew were engaged in discharging the cargo when Major Alexander arrived here with his ordnance stores. On or about the 17th of October he came to my office about 10:30 AM, He stated that he had in charge ordnance stores for General Holmes for which it was necessary to forward with all dispatch--of similar purport was an order from the Secretary of War which he produced.
I told him that the Paul Jones would leave the next day for Red River Landing with ordnance stores for Gen Taylor and he would thus have an early opportunity to deliver his stores at New Carthage.
He expressed dissatisfaction at the delay which must ensue-stores He wished to freight the boat with his ordnance stores alone and proceed to New Carthage thus necessitating a return of the boat to get Gen Taylor’s ordnance stores.
This I refused to permit, Major Alexander could in any event be delayed but 2-3 hours; the means of transit to Gen Taylor might at any time become unsafe. I deemed it essential that Gen Taylor’s stores go forward without unnecessary delay.
At Major Alexander’s request, I went with him to see Gen Scurry*-after conferring with him I undertook to procure hands to load the boat-reported the condition of affairs to Gen Smith. He immediately ordered a detail of 50 conscripts to report at the boat for the purpose of loading her. A relief detail of 50 men was sent down at sunset and by 6 AM the next morning the boat was on her way on the downward trip. The crew being short, I sent all the hands I could to make up the complement.
In regard to the statement of Major Alexander that I am never at my post, I would respectfully represent that the charge is gratuitous and false, and I desire here to enter my formal protest to such vague and informal accusations.
It is true that the 32 lb gun captured from was and is lying upon the [levee]; It is intended for a part of the armament of the rear line and will continue to be there until a suitable place is found for it.
In conclusion, permit me to say that I know not by what authority a special messenger in charge of ordnance stores assumes the prerogative and exercises the offices of an Inspector General.
*Gen Scurry is here by order of Gen Holmes to forward all stores assigned for the Trans Miss Department-Devereaux AAG