14 February, 1862

The Daily Picayune, New Orleans CS

Active Movements of Van Dorn’s Command.-We learn from our Arkansas exchanges that the greatest activity prevails throughout Gen. Van Dorn’s department in preparations for the spring campaign, and for rendering immediate assistance to Gen. Price. Numerous regiments are organizing under the late call of Gen. Van Dorn for ten thousand men. The Little Rock Democrat, of the 8^th, thus notices military movements:

The Fayetteville Arkansians of the 25^th ult. Says that Gen. Price sent an express to Col. Hebert, commanding at Fayetteville, informing the latter officer at the Federals were advancing upon Springfield with a heavy force, and asking for aid.  The Arkansians says it is understood that Gen. McIntosh will go to Price’s assistance at once.

Gen. Van Dorn remained in our city but a short time. He is a man of energy and Napoleonic celerity of movement.  Gen. Pike and staff proceeded to the Indian country, and the Gazette says that captain Woodruff’s artillery company will form a part of his command.

Col. Dawson’s regiment, and the southwestern portion of the State, has been attached to General Pike’s command.  The Texas (Maxey’s) regiment, which had crossed the river on their way to Kentucky, have been stopped and will go under Van Dorn.  Col. Lemoyne’s regiment, in Yell county, will be ordered to Pocahontas. Gen. McCulloch is by this time with his troops and Western Arkansas. There is unusual activity in every military circle and department.

The Washington (Ark.) Telegraph learns from a private source that is not the intention of Gen. Van Dorn to interfere in any peremptory matter with the authority of Gen. Price, of Missouri, whose commands is altogether separate and independent; but, for the common good, to visit Gen. Price in person, confer with him freely, and concert plans of mutual cooperation.