10 miles from Vicksburg

July 4, 1863

Major Gillway,

It is my sad duty to relate to you that the relief column to which I have been detached has failed to reach Vicksburg in time and the city has fallen. 

The Commanding General has ordered us to halt and camp where we are.  The men are in low spirit right now which is understandable due to our present situation.  We have set out our pickets and are preparing for the inevetable Yankee advance on our position. 

I have foragers out in the countryside seeing what they might be able to find as we have been on short rations for the past three days and the men are tired and hungry.

Our current orders are to hold this position until the Army can be concentrated.  I will provide you with a more complete report when the Regiment is brought up.

Richard Deshane

First Sergeant - Commanding

Company E

29th Georgia Volunteers