TITLE: The war of the rebellion: a compilation of the official records of the Union and Confederate armies. / Series 1 - Volume 23 (Part II) AUTHOR: United States. War Dept., John Sheldon Moody, Calvin Duvall Cowles, Frederick Caryton Ainsworth, Robert N. Scott, Henry Martyn Lazelle, George Breckenridge Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph William Kirkley PUBLISHER: Govt. Print. Off., Washington, 1889 Page A Production Note Cornell University Library produced this volume to preserve the informational content of the deteriorated original. The best available copy of the original has been used to create this digital copy. It was scanned bitonally at 600 dots per inch resolution and compressed prior to storage using ITU Group 4 compression. Conversion of this material to digital files was supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Digital file copyright by Cornell University Library 1995. This volume has been scanned as part of The Making of America Project, a cooperative endeavor undertaken to preserve and enhance access to historical material from the nineteenth century. Page B Page 1 THE WAR OF THE REBELLION: A COMPILATION OF THE OFFICIAL iRECOIRD~ OF TIlE UNION AND CONFEDERATE ARMIES. PREPARED, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE SECRETARY OF XVAR, BY ~he late Lient. Col. ROBERT N. SCOTT, Third U. S. Artillery. PUBLISHED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF Lieut. CoL HENRY M. LAZELLE, Twenty-third U. S. Infantry. PURSUANT TO ACTS OF CONGRESS. SERIES IVOLUME XXIIIIN TWO PARTS. PART IlCORRESPONDENCE, ETC. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING- OFFICE. 1 889 Page 2 II ,~ CORNELL \\ U N ~VERSITY~ LIBRARY / Page 3 PART II.VOL. XXIII. CORRESPONDENCE, ORDERS, AND RETURNS RELATING TO OPERATIONS IN KENTUCKY, MIDDLE AND EAST TENNESSEE, NORTH ALABAMA, AND SOUTHWEST VIR- GINIA, FROM JANUARY 21 TO AUGUST 10, 1863. UNION CORRESPONDENCE, ETC. CoLu~u3us, Ky, January 211, 1863. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Department of the Tennessee: Rumors having been abroad that the rebel General Forrest was again approaching Union City with his forces, I took all precautions, and ordered cavalry scouting parties from here and from Union City, who just report all quiet, and no enemy in force. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, Murfreesborough, January 22, 1863. General JOSEPH J. REYNOLDS, (Jon~manding Fifth Division, Center: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to instruct you to notify Colonel [A. S.] Hall, commanding the brigade, whose train was yesterday captured on the Liberty pike, that, until he has cleared him- self of all responsibility in the case; the general will hold him respon- sible for any suffering or hardship that may ensue to the men in his command from loss of transportation; that through his negligence or misconduct the Government, which he was sworn to protect, is made to lose the services of the captured men,. as well as the cost of their arms and accouterments, and that of all the wagons and animals, amounting probably to more than $100,000, and for any diminution of confidence or military spirit that may result from this most uncalled-for disaster. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, HENRY STONE, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant-General. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 22, 1863. Captain PENNOCK, Cairo: Please do the best you can for me as to gunboats. Why cannot common boats be procured, and barricaded and armed, and sent up the river? Cannot the small-pox boat be cleaned and sent? I can furnish a detail of men, if necessary. Very important that I have something to clear out the river. W. S. ROSECRANS, .Miajor- General. (3 Page 4 4 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [QUAY. XXXV. CAIRO, January 22, 1863. Major-General RoSEcRANS: There are now three light-draught gunboats in Cumberland 1~iver. The third (Lieutenant-Commander Fitch) went up last night. Please communicate with him. I cannot reach him. Will co-operate and give all the aid we can. I have not men enough left to man a light-draught gunboat. A. N. PENKOCK, Fleet Captain, and Commander Station 49. MtrRFREESBOROUGH, January 22, 1863. Capt. A N. PENNOCK, Cairo: Can you not fill up your gunboat fleet? If necessary, I will make details from here. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. CAIRO, January 22, 1863. Maj Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: Have but two boats at my disposal; one has small-pox on board and the other has not sufficient motive power to stem the current. All other boats now here are positively ordered by the admiral to join him below. A. N. PENNOCK, Fleet Captain, and Commandant of the Station. NURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., January, 22, 1863. Naj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: I need gunboats, to be sent up the river to destroy all means of cross- ing. Captain Pennock says he has none to send. Have telegraphed him asking why common boats cannot be procured, barricaded, and armed, and I will detail men to man them. If boats can be had, will send [Gordon] Granger up there. There is 25 feet of water in the river. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPART1~NT, Washington, January 23, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: I have just learned from the Assistant Secretary of the Navy that an express boat has been sent from Cairo to Admiral Porter, with orders to immediately send gunboats to the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers. In the mean time it is hoped that Captain Pennock may give you assist- ance from Cairo. Offer him details of soldiers to man his boats. H. W. HALLECK, General-in,- Chief Page 5 CErAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENcE, ETC.UNION. 6 NAVY DEPARTMENT, Capt. A. 1VL PENNOCK, January 23, 1863. Senior Naval Officer, Cairo, lit.: It is imperative that more gunboats should be sent in the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers to protect the transports. Send a steamer imme- diately, with this telegram, to Admiral Porter. Two hundred men for the sqnadron will be transferred from the East in three or fonr days. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. MURFREESBOROIJGH, TENN., Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, January 23, 1863. General-in-Chicf: Telegraphed twice, inquiring if yon could send me a few good division commanders. Would like to have General Cluseret. It is very desir- able to know at once what can be done. Have two divisions now com- manded by colonels. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. Lieutenant-Colonel GODDARD, NASHVILLE, January 23, 1863. Asst. Adjt. Gen. and Chief of Staff, ]lfurfrccsborough: SIR: I deem the following information of sufficient importance to communicate to the commanding general: The enemy are concentrating a considerable cavalry force at Colum- bia, advancing a portion to Franklin, establishing apparently a base to operate against your transportation on the river and Murfreesborongh roads. The knowing rebels say Bragg is changing his front. It is believed, perhaps understood, that Bragg is to be heavily re- enforced. The visit of Jeff. Davis, the great importance, i. e., necessity, of holding Middle Tennessee, jnstifies this belief; it is deserving of attention. The train which came up yesterday had only a guard of 300 men. Soldiers from Nashville and teams were straggling over the entire road, offering the most favorable opportunities for surprise and capture. The roads, unless speedily repaired, will be almost impassable after the next rain. There is still a large amount of quartermasters and ordnance stores scattered ~1Ver the road from the wreck of the trains captured by the rebels. General Garfield is here, and starts for Murfreesborough to-morrow. I have the honor to remain, truly, JAS. S. NEGLEY, Brigadier-General Page 6 6 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAr. XXXV. MIIRFREESI3OROUC{H, January 23, 1863. Brig. Gen. B. W. JOHNSON: Report says Forrest and Wheeler, with nearly 3,000 cavalry, are on the dirt road half-way between Rome and Versailles. Could you send General [J. Cj Davis to surprise them to-morrow morning by daylight,. or a little later? Answer. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. MURFREESBoIIoUGH, January 23, 1863. Brig. Gen. B. W. JOHNSON, Commanding Right Wing: Your dispatch is received. The general commanding directs me to say to you, All right; go ahead. Respectfully, G. ~. THRUSTON, Captain and Acting Aide-de.Camp. MIITRFREESBOROUGH, January 23, 1863. Brigadier-General JOHNSON, Commandin?, Right Wing: The general commanding directs me to say that, from all he can learn, the enemys cavalry have gone to Franklin, and that General Davis shall take at least three days rations to be able to follow tbem. He may find a small force at Unionville. Wheeler is in com- mand as major-general. If this .be true, and going prepared for it, he ought to go to Eagleville by to.morrow night, then, by Peytonsville pike, he should make Franklin by 3 oclock day after to-morrow. If he cant do this, it would be better to take a day longer to make preparations, because I think the trip, in order to do good service, will require five days in all. FRANK S. BOND, Aide-dc-Camp. MURFREESBORoUGH, January 23, 1863. Brigadier-General JOHNSON: In view of the state of the weather, and the creeks being up, the general commanding thinks General Davis had better not start until further orders, and then he had probably best go by way of Nolensville, taking all your trains with him. You had better not send any train to-morrow until this is decided. FRANK S. BOND, Aide-de- Camp. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 23, 1863. Colonel [J. N.] HARLAN, La Yergne: The general commanding directs me to say that now is the time to send, say half a regiment, or even a regiment, if you think best, a Page 7 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 5. NAVY DEPARtMENT, Capt. A. iVI. PENNOCK, January 23, 1863. Senior Naval Officer, Cairo, lit.: It is imperative that more gunboats should be sent in the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers to protect the transports. Send a steamer imme- diately, with this telegram, to Admiral Porter. Two hundred men for the squadron will be transferred from the East in three or four days. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, January 23, 1863. General-in- Chicf: Telegraphed twice, inquiring if you could send me a few good division commanders. Would like to have General Cluseret. It is very desir- able to know at once what can be done. Have two divisions now com- manded by colonels. W. S. ROSECIRANS, Major- General. Lieutenant-Colonel GODDARD, NASHVILLE, January 23, 1863. Asst. Adjt. Gen. and Chief of Staff, ]Jfurfrccsborough: SIR: I deem the following information of sufficient importance to communicate to the commanding general: The enemy are concentrating a considerable cavalry force at Colum- bia, advancing a portion to Franklin, establishing apparently a base to operate against your transportation on the river and Murfreesborough roads. The knowing rebels say Bragg is changing his front. It is believed, perhaps understood, that Bragg is to be heavily re- enforced. The visit of Jeff. Davis, the great importance, i. e., necessity, of holding Middle Tennessee, justifies this belief; it is deserving of attention. The train which came up yesterday had only a guard of 300 men. Soldiers from Nashville and teams were straggling over the entire road, offering the most favorable opportunities for surprise and capture. The roads, unless speedily repaired, will be almost impassable after the next rain. There is still a large amount of quartermasters and ordnance stores scattered fter the road from the wreck of the trains captured by the rebels. General Garfield is here, and starts for Murfreesborough to-morrow. I have the honor to remain, truly, JAS. S. NEGLEY, Brigadier-General Page 8 CuAr. XXXV.I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. Pt skirmishers through the Nolensville Hills, to clear oat the ~,uerrillas, many of whom will be found disguised as farmers. Your men can look out for forage at the same time. Very respectfully, FRATK S. BOI~LD, Aide-de-Camp. P. S.The general also directs that you pick up all of our horses that may be found in that region. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 23, 1863. Colonel HARLAN, La Yergne; It is reported that the enemy ar~ in some force at Franklin. Keep on the qui vive, and know everything that is going on around you. By order of Major-General iRosecrans: C. H. THOMPSON, Captain and Aide-dc-Camp. CINcI~ATI, OHIo, January 23, 1863. Major-General ROSECRALNS: General [Gordon] Grangers commandof twenty regiments of in- fantry, four of cavalry, and four batteries of artillery..is ordered to report to you, proceeding to Nashville from Louisville via the Ohio and Cumberland Rivers. Transportation has been secured, and they will be ready to start from here by the 26th, I think. The weather is bad, and the ground covered with snow. Some delay may ensue in consequence. If important to you, the movement will be hurried, without regard to the health and comfort of the troops; but if a few days delay is admis- sible, they can be sent in much more effective condition. Let me know this. The effective strength of the command, including West Virginia troops, will be about 14,000; If moved in the snow and mud, and com- pelled to camp in it on the route to Louisville, it will be much reduced. Th G. WRIGHT, Major- General. HDQRS. RIGHT WING, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Jilurfreesborough, January 23, 1863. Brigadier-General SHERIDAN, Commanding Third Division: Major-General ROSECRANS, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: GENERAL: J. M. Phillips, a scout, just in from near rrnionville, says that Forrest and Wheeler are at Unionville and Rover with a large force of cavalry and some tw6 or three pieces of artillery. He says they are clearing the country of stock of all kinds; also produce of all kinds. He also heard cannonading at or near Middleton yesterday about 12 oclock. Also heard that Cheatham, Withers, and McCown were at Shelbyville. He thinks there are 3,000 cavalry at these two places. Very respectfully, JOHN 0. NOBLE, Chief of & outs Page 9 8 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, January 23, 1863. Brigadier-General [J. M.] PALMER, Gommanding Second Division: GENERAL: You will at once have your troops in readiness to march, with three days rations in haversacks, and move instantly with your remaining brigade for iReadyville. Take Crafts brigade with you, and get to Readyville to-night. At daylight in the morning march for Woodbnry with your whole division, to try and capture the forces of the enemy stationed there. A brigade from the center, probably Colonel Wilders, will be sent to-day for the same destination, by the Bradyville pike, and will be accompa- nied by a large force of cavalry. You will instruct your command to be cautious not to fire upon our cavalry. Let them look oat for them carefully in the direction of Bra- dyville. By command of Major-General Crittenden: LYNE STARLING, Assistant Adjutant-General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 20. ~ Murfreesborough, Tenn., Jan. 23, 1863. * * * * * * XI. The general commanding has learned with pleasure of the gallant conduct of Lient. S. J. Hansey, Third Ohio Cavalry, with a small de- tachment under his command, in attacking and dispersing a much larger detachment of the enerny~s cavalry, with a loss on their part of 2 killed; 1 wounded, and 10 prisoners, and without loss on ours. Noth- ing gives the general greater pleasure than to convey to such brave men the thanks they have merited by their bravery and success. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Rosecran~: HENRY STONE, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CORINTH, Corinth, Miss., January 23, 1863. Colonel [E. W.] RICE, Commanding Escort to Train: Another train will leave here in the morning, strongly guarded. As 1 before directed, give all the assistance you can to the gunboats, and send all the force necessary, and, if possible, step up to Tuscumbia and get the battery at that place. Unless Roddey should get notice of your approach, you can do a great deal of damage to him, and perhaps cap- ture some of his force. I would put all the infantry I could aboard the boats. You can go in command of our forces, if you deem best; but leave good officers in charge of train. I do not think IRoddey can cross Yellow Creek, to molest our train. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier-General Page 10 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 9 MURFREESBOROTJGH, TEMi., Maj Gen. H. W. flALLECK, January 24, 1863. General -in- Chief: Have been threatened with lung fever; now convalescing; hope out of danger. Doubtless the Cumberland can and should be made our line of supplies, but bullet-proof, light-draught, powerful steamboats should be used, such as one called the Meigs, built on the Kanawlia in 1861, for quartermasters use. No organized means exist, and the rebels are now concentrating a cavalry force behind the waters of the Har- peth, to cut off all our communication. I hope to defeat, and possibly destroy, them, by a force from Kentucky; but as to boats, you can see what we have from the Navy. W. S. ROSECRAKS, ]Jft~jor- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, ID. C., January 24, 1863. Major-General BOSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Ienn.: Forts Henry and Donelson have always belonged to General Grants department. Are there any good reasons for a change I H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., January 24, 18636 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: They were expressly in Grants department until the order creating this department was published, in which they were included. Not doubting it was so understood, and finding them in my line of water communication, I have exercised rights of command until I found Grant did not so understand it. Their maintenance and police surveillance are essential to my lines of communication and the control of the con- traband trade, and they ought to be under my command. W S. ROSEORANS, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, January 24, 1S634 p m. Major-General IROSECRANS: In reply to your telegram of January 19 the General-in-Chief decides that Forts Henry and Donelson belong to General Grants command. L. THOMAS. MUEFREESBOROUGH, TENN., January 24, 186311.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Since dispatching you this evening, I have received a telegram from General Thomas, in answer to mine of the 19th, saying Forts Henr Page 11 10 KY., MID. AND E. TERN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CUAP. XXXV. and IDonelson are under General ~ command. Have also received two telegrams, showing that they should be in my command, one of them stating that my troops have been halted there, and one asking permits to ship goods. While the Cumberland is navigable, this will probably be of daily occurrence. W. S. ROSEORANS, Major-General. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 24, 1863. Brigadier.General JOHNSON, Commanding Right Wing: The general commanding dfrects that General Davis expedition to Unionville be for the present suspended; also that your wagon train be sent, under a strong escort~!..a brigade, if necessaryto Nashville. FRANK S. BOND, Aide.de.Camp. MURFREESBoROUGH, January 24, 1863. Major.General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: Have been ill. Out of danger. Would you could see me. Will Granger be in Louisville soon I His first two brigades and the cavalry ought to come by Monday, without fail. Forrest and all the rebel cavalry of Wheeler have gone to Franklin, and have burned the bridges across the ilarpeth toward Nashville, with the view of operating between the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers on our steamboat transportation. I think by concert of action we can put them up a spout. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROTYGH, January 24, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: Send two strong brigades, two batteries of artillery, and all your cav- alry, with the pack animals and saddles, from Louisville, by steamer to Clarksville, there to disembark, and, with ten days rations, to sweep the whole country from the Tennessee River to this place, between the Cumberland and Duck Rivers. The command should carry 120 rounds of ammunition per man, and have the limber-boxes and caissons filled. Please send balance of Grangers command by steamer to Nashville, to join me here as soon as possible. W. S. ROSECRANS. MURFUBESBOROUGH, January 24, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, cincinnati: In your dispatches you speak of sending down another division. Do you mean by that that you will relieve the troops at Bowling Green, and send them down? Please answer, as I wish to send them to Carthage. W. S. R. [ROSECRANS. Page 12 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 11 MURFREESBOROUGH, January 24, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: If you will take care of your part of the State, I am satisfied. If I cannot whip with what you send me, I will give up. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CORINTH, Corinth, Miss., January 24, 1863. Capt. B. M. SAWYER, Assistant Adjutant- General, Memphis: CArTAIN: I have the honor to submit a statement of a few of the outrages committed upon citizens of Alabama by the Confederate troops. While all their leaders, from the President down, are boasting of their carrying on this war in accordance with the laws that govern nations in such cases, and are charging upon our troops all kinds of depredations and outrages, I think a few simple facts must put them to the blush, and make those parties and our press and people who are seconding the efforts of Davis to cast stigma upon us ashamed of the work they are doing. I will merely state what I know to be true. Abe Canade and Mr. Mitchell were hung two weeks ago for being Union men. They lived on the ilackelborough Settlement, Marion County, Alabama. Mr. llallwork and daughter, of same county, were both shot for the same cause; the latter instantly killed. The former is yet alive, but will probably die. Peter Lewis and three of his neigh- bors were hunted down by one hundred bloodhounds and captured. The houses of Messrs. Palmer, Welsly, Williams, the three Wright- incus, and some thirty others were burned over their heads, the women and children turned out of doors, and the community notified that if they allowed them to go into other houses, or fed or harbored them in any manner, that they would be served the same. Mr. Peterson, living at the head of Bull Mountain, was shot, & c. I am now feeding some one hundred of these families, who, with their women and children, some gray-haired old men, and even cripples on crutches, were driven out and made their way here, through the woods and by-ways, without food or shelterall done for the simple reason they were Union men, or that they had brothers or relations in our army. The statements of these people are almost beyond belief, did we not have the evidence before us. I am informed by them that there ~re hundreds of loyal men and women in the woods of Alabama, waiting for an opportunity to escape. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, January 25, 1863. Major-General BOSECRANS, Jlfurfreesborough, Tenn.: Forts Henry and Donelson will hereafter belong to the Department of the Cumberland. At the present crisis it is difficult to withdraw general officers from the Army of the Potomac. I hope to send you some soon. General [G. P.] Cluseret is in arrest. If you knew hi Page 13 12 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. better, you would not ask for him. You will regret the application as long as you live; but if you say so, you shall have him. II. W. HALLECK, ______ GeneraUin.Ghief. LA YERGNE, January 25, 18637 p. m. General [THoMAS]: GENERAL: I have just received your note.* I suppose you have. received note, written by my aide, giving information last received in regard to the attack on the railroad trains.~ It seems that they soon retired from the railroad. General Johnsons trains reached here about 12 oclock, too late for me to obtain the co.operation of any troops with it. All the wagons were halted here and parked. About 2.30 oclock I received such information as induced me to believe that the enemy would not to-day strike the pike, and, upon consultation with General Stanley, who was here, started trains ahead, adding to the escort one regiment of infantry and a gun. The regiment sent by me was ordered to go to the junction of Franklin and Lebanon roads with the Murfrees. borough pike, there halt, and take position until the entire train passed. The trains did not have a brigade with them. At any rate, the largest number reported with them was 1,200 men; but the number with one train was reported to be about 250. The guard were ordered to get out of the wagons and march on foot to Mill Creek. No word having come back from the train, I presume that its safety is certain. In face of the number of the enemy, as first reported, I did not feel authorized to aban. don this position and go out alone to hunt them, siuce a regiment would have to be left here to guard our camps, thus leaving me quite reduced in numbers for an attack. I thought that I could do the best service in protecting the trains which were supposed to be coming from Mur- freesborough. I have, through negroes, some information tending to show that a part of Morgans force, or some other rebel force, was at Buchanans Mills, 8 or 9 miles from here, beyond Stones Itiver; re- ported strength, 1,000. II have sent a squad of cavalry in that direction to reconnoiter. The force of cavalry with me is but 75. Since commencing above, a scout has come in, who reports Wheelers force between N~densville and Murfreesborough pike. He gets it from citizens, and believes it to be true. He says that it is somewhere near Concord Church, not far from Nolensville. Also that a body of 600 are at Battles Mills, near Nolensville, about 8 or 9 miles from here. The information is not entirely reliable. Some of our men, taken and paroled to-day, say that the rebels an- nounced their purpose to take this place. Since I saw you at Murfrees. borough we have been busily engaged in fortifying, and I feel confident~ in resisting any number who are likely to come. There ought to be here at once, I respectfully suggest, a cavalry force sufficient to attack and hold the enemy for a time, and strong enough to enable us to ascer- tain quickly the movements of the enemy. IRespectfufly, in haste, JOHN M. HARLAN, Colonel, Commanding Post. P. 5.General Stanley went down the road with train. Will return in a short while, when some plan of operations for to-morrow may be agreed upon. Not found Page 14 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 13 HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., January 25, 1863. Col. SA]VrUEL A. GILBERT, Comdg. First Brigade, Army of Central Kentucky: The brigadier-general commanding directs me to say that, in the organ- ization of the forces of this district into brigades, your present command will be styled the First Brigade, Army of Central Kentucky, and will be unaltered in its composition, and will compose all the forces now under your command. You will make your headquarters at Frankfort, Ky. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. N. BURGER, ~Japtain and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Col. BENJAMIN ~. RE, Lexington, Ky., January 25, 1863. Jomdg. Second Brigade, Army of Central Kentucky: The brigadier-general commanding directs me to say that, in the or- ganization of the forces of this district into brigades, your command will be styled the Second Brigade, Army of Central Kentucky, and will be composed as follows, viz: First, the Forty-fifth Regiment Ohio Vol- unteer Infantry second, the Seventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cay- airy; third, the Tenth Regiment Kentucky Volunteer Cavalry, and, fourth, six mountain howitzers, to be manned by an infantry detail, now at Nicholasville, and left by Brig. Gen. A. Baird. You will be stationed for, the present at Danville and vicinity, with the cavalry stationed as far as Harrodsburg, if you deem it expedient. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. N. BURGER, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., January 25, 1863. Col. C. C. DOOLITTLE, Comdg. Third Brigade, Army of Central Kentucky: The brigadier-general commanding directs me to say that, in the or- ganization of the forces of this district into brigades, your command will be styled the Third Brigade, Army of Central Kentucky, and will be composed as follows: First, the Eighteenth Regiment Michigan Vol- unteer Infantry; second, the Twenty-second Regiment Michigan Volun- teer Infantry; third, the One hundred and Twelfth Illinois Volunteer Infantry; fourth, the Second Independent Battalion Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, with six mountain howitzers, viz, the two now belonging to the battalion and the four recently attached to the Eighteenth Ohio Bat- tery, to be under the command of Lieut. J S. Law, of the battalion, and, fifth, the two 12-pounder field howitzers under the command of Lient. A. J. Freich. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. N. BURGER, Gaptain and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 15 14 KY, ~ AND E. TENK., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. CAIRo, January 25, 1863. Hon. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Xavy: Sent yesterday one more light-draught gunboat up Cumberland River, lightly manned. To.day, Lexington will go up, to remain a few days. Have sent Lient. Commander S. L. Phelps in her, to examine condition of river and report to me its requirements. A. N. PEMiOCK, Fleet Captain, Commandant of Station. MUEFREESBOROUGH, TENN., January 26, 18632.15 a. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: General Garfield reports to me that there are two regiments of cav- alry in Ohiothe Second and Tenth Ohiothat are full and ready for the field. I have telegraphed before of my great need, and that a suffi- cient force of cavalry is all I require to make an advance, and I earnestly request that these two regiments be ordered to report to me forthwith. I wish to have cavalry enough to destroy the enemys cavalry, and, this done, I cain occupy this whole country with my forces and procure forage enough for my army. Very truly, yonrs, ~. ~. ROSECRAKS, Major.General, Commanding. MURFREESBORoUGH, January 26, 1863. Major-General WEIGHT, Cincinnati: General Paine sends down rumors of a projected raid into Kentucky, by some of Morgans men, via Burkesville. I would suggest that you have some mounted infantry ready to operate in that direction, should it be necessary. W. S. BOSEORAKS, Aliajor-General. MURFREESBOROTJGH, January 26, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: It is a great disappointment to us Granger not starting to-day, as all my dispositions were based on your promise to that effect. Oar whole fleet is exposed in consequence of this delay. His two advance brigades ought at least to be ready to start earlier than Friday. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 26, 1863. Brig. Gen. E. A. PAINE, Gallatin: Your telegram is received. The general commanding is surprised to learn that there is danger of enemys crossing the Cumberland. He desires to know why all boats along the river h ye not been destroye Page 16 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 15 according to his orders. Is the river fordable at Burkesville or Harts- yule? He desires also to know if your infantry force cannot easily prevent any danger of their crossing, and wishes you to ma~ke inquiry up the road to know where Johnsons cavalry is. G. P. THRUSTON, Captain and Acting Aide-dc- Camp. HEIDQUARTERS ExPEDITION Brig. Gen. GRENVILLE N. DODGE, Hamburg, January 26, i863. Commanding District of Corinth: The scout you forwarded dispatch by has just arrived. His informa- tion concerning the movements of Roddey conflicts with the latest news I have. My latest is that the Savannah force bad begun to fall back from there Saturday evening, and continued until last evening. They went first to Lebanon [Lexington], and then toward Florence. They had pickets out across the river, and this afternoon the cavalry (dis- mounted) I had placed over to watch for them, fired upon, and the gun- boats threw some shell among them, and drove them off. I think, from all I can learn, that we must meet with this force along the river as I go up, and hope to bag them. All the commissary stores were shipped off by the first trains, so that the regiments I have will need rations, if I should be out longer than day after to-morrow; and would it not be well to have two days rations for, say, 9~O men? Meet us, if I should be detained and not be able to leave here or return to Corinth, by day after to-morrow. Will send courier as soon as I get back from up-river movement. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. W. RICE, Colonel, Commanding. P. S.The trains I sent with hay were loaded with four or five bales to the team, and the drivers must know what has become of it. MURPREESBOROUGH, January 27, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cinc$nnati: Cipher dispatch, dated 27th, received. Dispatched by General Thomas, in my name. Asked for two brigades, two batteries, and all the cavalry, with pack-animals, to be sent at once by boats to Clarks- ville; then disembark and sweep the country east of Tennessee, north of Duck River, and south of Cumberland to this place. Come as near this as you can. Instructions will meet the commander at Clarksville. Advise me fully of all movements. Have them bring shelter tents for field service, and put their baggage in store. W. S. ROSECRAKS. CLARKSYILLE Jannar General ROSECRANS: , y 27, 1863. Matters are quiet here. I have information that they design attack- ing me in forte. I would like to have two rifled pieces to put in my fort.-two siege guns. There are 30 boats here now and 3 gunboats Page 17 16 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CuAP. 1x1T. One went up last night without reporting. Will send fleet forward to- night, unless otherwise ordered. General Granger has not yet arrived. Rebels are on south side of river, near Shoals. Reported 5,000 strong, with eight pieces of artillery. Will keep you advised. I keep strong pickets at Shoals, on this side. ]~ebel cavalry are on south side, in view. S. D. BRUCE, Colonel, Commanding Post. CLARKSVILLE, January 27, 1803. General ROSECRANS: Wheelers and Forrests forces are between Charlotte and Shoals. The gunboat Lexington was up to Shoals to-day. Had three cannon balls strike her. Rebels were shelled out. They are collecting such supphes as the country affords. Fifth Iowa Cavalry captured a few of their wagons yesterday and carried them to Donelson. S. D. BRUCE, Colonel, Commanding Post. LA. YERGNE, January 27, 1863. Maj. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of Staff: Captain Scott, First Ohio, in command of scouting party, ordered by me from Stewardsborough this morning, reports no enemy at Triune. Had moved toward Shelbyville. Forrests command went last night to Eagleville. Wheeler encamped at Poplar Grove, 4 or 6 miles beyond Triune. Both parties supposed to have been ordered to Shelbyville. A sergeant and 5 men, who went to Wilkjnsons Cross-Roads this morn- ing, report no enemy there, but that a considerable quantity of cotton was burned last night between the cross-roads and the Murfreesborough pikeby whom was not ascertained. JOHN M. HARLAN, Colonel, Commanding Post. FORT HENRY, January 27, 1863. General ROSECRANS: I am in receipt of the following, deemed reliable: Forrest and Wheeler, reported 7,000 strong, are near Charlotte, tend- ing to above Clarksville and Harpeth Shoals, the object being to watch for transportation and decoy Colonel Bruce across, so that Morgan can dash into Clarksville. A scouting party from my command captured some prisoners and teams loaded with meat for Forrest. Roads almost impassable. ~. ~. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. NASHVILLE, January 27, 1863. Major GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff: No gunboats arrived yet. The gunboat Lexington iimde a recon- naissance from Clarksville to the Shoals this morning. Was struc Page 18 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 17 three times, by enemys guns at B , without injury. We succeeded in driving the rebels out. Twenty-six transports and four gunboats are on the way up to-night. Will arrive some time to-morrow. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMEERLAND, No. 5. jT Murfreesborough, Tenn., January 27, 1863. The general commanding has learned that a train has been lost and its guard captured because they allowed themselves to be surprised with- out arms in their hands, or with their arms unloaded; and that train guards are in the habit of taking off their accouterments and placing their arms in the wagons. Such disgraceful conduct on the part of both officers and men, intrusted with duties so important, renders them both mora.lly and legally responsible for the loss of life and public property which so frequently ensues. It is, therefore, ordered that any officer in command of troops acting as train guards who shall permit his men to take off their accouterments or lay aside their arms, in or outside of the wagons, or whose troops shall be found with their arms unloaded, shall forfeit all pay and allow- ances that may be due him, and be dishonorably dismissed the service for gross misbehavior on guard duty. Any non-commissioned officer or private on such duty, who shall be found with his musket unloaded or out of his hands, or with his side arms off, without the order or permis- sion of his commanding officer, shall, for each offense, forfeit one months pay, and moreover be punished on the spot, according to the nature and necessity of the offense. Any officer sending out trains in contraven- tion of orders, or without due notice to, and leave from, his superior officer, or without adequate guards, shall be held pecuniarily responsi- ble for any injury such trains may sustain, and, moreover, be punished as for misbehavior in the face of the enemy. No picket guard will allow forage or other trains to pass its lines with- out written orders from the commanding officer of the division or inde- pendent brigade to which such trains belong, nor without such guards as are reasonable and have been customary on the road. This order will be read at the head ~f each regiment and detached company in this army, and it shall be the special duty of all division and brigade inspectors to see that it is carried into immediate effect. By command of Major-General iRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of AS~taff. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ ll~Qus. DEPT. OF THE CTJMBERLAND, No. 6. ~ Murfreesborough, ffenn., January 27, 1863. The general commanding, desiring to increase as far as possible the effective force of this army, by returning to their regiments able-bodied men, now on detached service as teamsters, laborers, and hospital at- tendants, directs that their places be supplied, as far as possible, by the substitution of men hired for the purpose. To accomplish this, the fol- lowing directions are given: I; Citizens residing within or without the limits of this department may be employed and paid by quartermasters, as teamsters, wagoi~- 2 R RVOL XXIII, PT I Page 19 18 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. masters, and laborers, and by the medical departmenb as hospital at- tendants. II. Negroes may be employed, and paid in conformity with the act of Congress, as follows: 1st. As teamsters, on quartermaster~s trains, provided a sufficient number of white teamsters and wagon-masters are retained to preserve order. 2d. As laborers, in the quartermaster and engineer departments. 3d. As cooks, nurses, and attendants in hospitals. 4th. As company cooks, two to a company. 5th. As ~ servants, according to the number allowed by law. Commanders of corps, divisions, brigades, and independent posts are authorized to procure and employ negroes as above: 1st. From those found free and roaming at large. 2d. From those belonging to masters serving in the rebel army, or who have been employed in any manner in the rebel service. 3d. From those belonging to persons who, though not now serving in the rebel cause, are disloyal, or have children or other near relatives in the rebel army, who are benefited or maintained by the labor of such slaves. Lastly, when it becomes an absolute necessity, from among those be. longing to loyal men. In this case a copy of the order directing their employment, and a descriptive list of persons so employed, shall be given to the owner, duly authenticated by the commanding officer of the troops in whose service they are employed. The commanding general enjoins great caution in the employment of women in any case where it might lead to immorality. III. All persons so employed in each regiment, except those employed as officers servants, will be entered on quartermasters rolls as laborers or teamsters, stating their age, sex, name of master or claimant, date of employment, and the length of time employed; and in the column of remarks~ will be noted on what duty and by whom employed. Those employed by the engineer, quartermaster, or medical depart- ments will be entered on their appropriate rolls. They will be provided with clothing, to be deducted from their pay, the balance to be paid to the person employed, unless he belong to a loyal master, in which case payment will be made to the master. Every negro thus employed will receive a certificate from his em- ployer, set~ting forth the fact and nature of his employment, and no male or female negro will remain in camp or be subsisted therein with- out such certificate. IIY. Commanding officers and medical directors of corps, divisions, brigades, and posts are directed to substitute hired labor as far as prac- ticable for that of detailed men, and are ordered to return all soldiers now performing such duty to their regiments as fast as their places can be supplied. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. CENTER, 14TH ARMY CoRPS, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 6. ) ]Jlurfreesborough, January 27, 1863. So much of General Orders, No. 1, from these headquarters, as as- gg~ Briga4ie~-Geuend 1\Iorgan, FourtI~ Thvi~siQi~, to. tl~e eommaud o Page 20 CHkP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 19 the brigade composed of the Eighty-fifth, Eighty-sixth, and One hun- dred and twenty-fifth flhinois, and Fifty-second Ohio, is annulled, and General Morgan is assigned to the command of the First Brigade, Fourth Division, composed of the Tenth, Sixteenth, and Sixtieth Illinois Vol- unteers, and the Tenth and Fourteenth Michigan Volunteers; and Col. D. McCook is assigned to the command of the Second Brigade, Fourth Division, composed of the Eighty-fifth, Eighty-sixth, and One hundred and twenty~fifth illinois Volunteers, and Fifty-second Ohio. By command of Major-General Thomas: [GEO. E. FLYNT,] ~ajor and Chief of Staff. STEAMER RAYMOND, Hamburg, January 27, 1863. Brig. Gen. GRENVILLE N. DODGE, Commanding District of Corinth: SIu: As I informed you by dispatch last evening, I had my force on board, ready to start, but the fog was so thick the boat could not be got underway until early this morning. When about 5 miles from here, the starboard wheel broke down, in consequence of some damage it re- ceived in starting; it was not possible to repair it, or to go on up the ~riverwithonlyonewheel,andbargeintow,so,muchto myregret,J was obliged to turn back to Hamburg. I had everything arranged, I believe, for a successful thing; but this accident, to my great disappoint- ment, has prevented the accomplishment of our designs. The gunboat iRobb has, however, continued on as far as she can go over the shoals, and will destroy any fiats that may be found. She will return this p. in., and will then probably go on down the river with convoy. I do not think, from what information I can get, there is any force now at Savannah. Colonel Breckenridge will go with them as far as Perryville, and return across the country, and report to you anything of interest he may find. The train left this morning, and I shall send the Seventh Iowa and Eighty-first Ohio and section of artillery after them. The Fifty-second Illinois is retained here until you can send 30 wagons more for the bal- ance of the stores. Either the quartermaster is much to blame in load. ing or else there was much more than, was supposed. A section of artillery remains here, and some cavalry. Scouts have been sent along Chambers Creek this morning, and others over the river. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, B. W. RICE, Colone4 Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Major-General ROSECRANS, Washington, January 28, 1863. Murfreesborough, Tenn.: If there are cavalry regiments in Ohio, they are subject to General Wrights orders, and he has been repeatedly directed to send you everything he can possibly spare. I cannot take good generals away from armies in the field, and bad ones you do not want. If General Hooker will consent, you shall have General Burns. You already have your full share of the best offlcers~ IT. W. HALLECIiI, Gener~l-in-0hi~f Page 21 20 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CifAP. xxxv. WASHINGTON, D. C., January 28, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Teun.: Numerous applications for leaves of absence, approved by you, are received here. While you are in the face of the enemy, and are daily asking for officers and re-enforcements, it is obviously improper to give leaves to officers of your command. H. W. HALLECK, General.in-Chief. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Xashville, Tenn., January 28, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Fleet passing Shoals at ip. m. without interruption. Colonel [iRoberti Johnsons cavalry arrived this evening, considerably run down. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General, Commanding. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 28, 1863. Brigadier-General MITCHELL, Nashville: Forrest is not at Harpeth. Some portion of his command may be there, perhaps under Napier. Please report this to Fort Henry and Ciarksville. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 28, 1863 Brig. Gen. E. A. PAINE, Gallatin: Send forward Steedmans two regiments. There is no force of con- sequence of the enemy in your vicinity. If necessary, you can call in some of the troops from Buck Lodge, leaving a small guard there. By order: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., January 29, 18637.30 p m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Am convalescent and at work. Enemy shows signs of withdrawing from the line of the Elk River, near or across the Tennessee. Believe they fear gunboat expedition up the Tennessee. Recent storms de- stroyed our bridges between here and Nashville. Damaged road cov- ering. The country and dirt roads nearly impassable for teams. Our railroad will be ready by the 6th, and by the 15th shall have mounted infantry and cavalry enough to drive the enemys cavalry from the field, want of which, up to this time, has cost the Government many millions of dollars. This war must be conducted to annihilate the miii Page 22 CHAP. XXIV.1 COI~RESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 21 tary power and exhaust the resources of the rebels. All our preparations should be promptly made firmly to advance and strongly to hold the country. We are now 212 miles from our base of supplies, our line of communication by rail being subject to many contingencies. More substantial provisioh must be immediately made. This should be by the Tennessee and Cumberland, asnear as possible, to Nashville; thence to that place by the Edgefield and Kentucky Railroad north, and the Northwestern road south of Cumberland, the former to be repaired immediately, and the latter to be completed to a point on the Tennessee, below Waverly; country to be covered by occupation of Franklin, Co- lumbia, Charlotte, and Waverly, without delay. Second, needful trans- ports, tugs, and barges, to suit the waters of the Cumberland and Ten- nessee, by purchase, adaptation, or construction, should be prepared without delay. Third, three or four small light-draught, staunch-built, powerful tugs and gunboats, capable of ascending the Tennessee above the Shoals, should be prepared. The use of such boats at this time, co- operating with our movements, would save the Government millions in time and expense. In moving this army, these gunboats are of the utmost importance to guard the Tennessee, now masked by impassable roads and superior cavalry, besides the intrinsic value of time, each days delay costing the Government $200,000. The time of delay in opening our road, and getting our mounted force to have the upper hand, should be used to begin and forward the preparation. Your ap- proval of the needful construction or repair of those two railroads, and sanction of the necessary steps in regard to river transportation, as above indicated, is requested. Yours, very truly, ~-. ~. ROSECRANS, Major-General. MUEFREESBOROUGH, January 29, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: Your dispatch received. Am very glad you sent General Crook. No man could be more acceptable. With your consent, I propose to send up the Ninth and Eleventh Kentucky to Bowling Green (two first-rate fight- ing regiments, raised in that neighborhood), to replenish their thinned ranks, and get you to order down at once the Twenty-third and Twenty- fifth Michigan in their stead; and, if you think proper to spare them, the One hundred and Eleventh Ohio and the Wisconsin regiments. I think all of these regiments might safely be ordered down by rail at once. They need not bring their transportation. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 26. f Murfreesborough, fFenn., Jan. 29, 1863. * * * * * * * IX. By virtue of the authority delegated to the major-general com- manding; by the Secretary of War, Capt. B. W. Canfield, One hundred and fifth Ohio Volunteers, is, for disobedience of orders and gross neglect of duty in allowing his train, consisting of 34 wagons and 184 animals, under charge of 164 men, to be surprised and captured by a scarcely superior force of the enemy, without resistance on his part Page 23 CaAi. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 23 counted by millions of dollars. Again, revolving arms duplicate our strength. What is the use of raising and supporting a force and losing half its strength, for want of as many dollars expense for arms as would be lost by a days delay? The extra forage and subsistence we could have procured would pay four times the number needed. To arm our cavalry, we now want twenty-five hundred revolving rifles and breech-loading carbines. Can we have them? How soon? W. S. BOSEOBANS, Major- General. WASHINGTON, January 30, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, !l7enn.: GENERAL: Your telegram of yesterday, 7.30 p. in., was received this morning, and I have telegraphed an answer in regard to gunboats. Will not the occupation of so many points as you propose between the Cumberland and the Tennessee Rivers greatly weaken your main army and expose the garrisons of the points occupied to capture? If these were fortified towns, strong enough to resist a coup de main, the case would be different. There is a general impression here that no troops have gone from Yirginia to re-enforce Bragg, but, on the contrary, that a part of Braggs forces have been sent to Port Hudson and Yicksburg, and I have been urged to send a part of your army down the Mississippi. I do not re- gard the reports of these changes as sufficiently reliable to authorize any change at present in the strength of your army. They are, how- ever, of such a character as to render it exceedingly important that you should occupy the enemy in your front, and, as far as possible, feel him and keep yourself informed of his strength. The continued inaction of the Army of the Potomac during the long and favorable season for field operations, which, it is feared, is now closed, has very greatly embarrassed the Government. It was expected that that army would at least drive the enemy from the vicinity of Washington and the Upper Potomac, and occupy the rebel army, of Virginia south of the Rappahannock. This would have enabled us to detach sufficient forces to place the opening of the Mississippi beyond a doubt. As things now are, we are hard pressed for troops for that purpose. Should the enemy succeed in holding your army in check with an inferior force while be sends troops to the Mississippi River, it is greatly to be feared that the time of many of our troops will expire without our having accomplished any important results. In regard to gunboats for the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers, I regret that the entire control of these matters was taken from the War Department. We anticipated and predicted that just at the time and place where we most needed these boats there would be no co-operation. Our only hope is for you to continually urge upon Admiral Porter the necessity of his keeping boats in these rivers, and I will continue to urge the matter upon the Navy Department here. I have no doubt that there is every desire for a cordial co-operation, but this is very difficult fo effect when the parties have different objects in view and act entirely independent of each other. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief Page 24 24 KY., MID. AND E. TENTh, N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXY. MURFUEESBOROUGH, January 30, 1863. General GORDON GRANGER, Louisville: Cannot you get barges for the cavalry and tow them up 1 It will not do at all to send them by land. Will take ten days to make the trip, and then the animals will be jaded and worn down so that they will be unfit for duty for ten days more, making a loss of twenty days. If the cavalry and pack animals cannot come up by water, to accompany the infantry and artillery, the whole force will have to come through to Nashville, and abandon the enterprise. Do not put arbitrary words in the dispatches. We have lost the cipher and only know the route. Please send a copy of the cipher. Direct to C. R. THOMPSON, Captain and Aide-de.Camp. MURFREESBOROUGH, Januari, 30, 1863. Brig. Gen. iR. W. JOHNSON: Two dispatches received. The general commanding directs that Gen- eral Davis hold his command in readiness to.morrow morning to make the movement contemplated some days ago. He has concluded it is not best to send General Davis to.night. G. P. THRUSTOK, Captain and Aide-de.Camp. MUEFREESBOROUGH, January 30, 1863. Col. S. D. BRUCE, Clarksville: I am directed by the general commanding to inform you that a large force of rebel cavalry is reported at Triune, on its way toward Frank- lin or Nolensville. Respectfully, G. ~. THRUSTOK, Captain and Aide.de-Camp. (Same to Colonels Harlan, La Yergne, and Tunes, Nashville.) MURFREESBOROUGH, January 30, 1863. Brigadier.Geueral STEEDMAN, Nashville: Are your two regiments down from Gallatin yet ~l Is your brigade ready to move ~l The general contemplates giving you an order for an expedition. Colonel Wilder has been directed to combine his command with yours for the purpose. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 30, 1863. Col. S. D. BRUCE, Clarlcsville: The general commanding directs me to say that Forrest is at Chapel Hill and Wheeler is loafing in our front. The former may possibly pay you a visit. Respectfully, G. ~. THRUSTOK, Captain and Aide-de-Camp Page 25 CHAP. XXXV.1 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 25 MURFIIEESBOROUGH, Jctnuary 30, 1863. Brig. Gen. R. W. JOHNSON: A large force of rebel cavalry at Triune, on its way to Franklin or Nolensville. Could not General Davis get ready and surprise them in the morning at daybreak ~i If not, how near conid he come to it ~ By order, & c. Respectfully, G. P. THRUSTOX, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 30, 1863. Col. J. T. WILDER, Nashville: Combine your command with that of General Steedman. The general has a movement in contemplation for you. By order: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 30, 1863. Brig. Gen. R. B. MITCHELL, Nashville: The general commanding directs me to inform you that a large force of rebel cavalry is reported at Triune, on its way to Franklin, or Kolens- vile. He thinks Steedman and Wilder would make a good expedition to Franklin. Perhaps you can strengthen them with a regiment. Respectfully, G. P. TIIRIITSTON, Captain and Aide-de.Camp. MURFREESIIOROUGH, January 30, 1863. Brig. Gen. R. B. MITCHELL, Nashville: If practicable, would prefer that Colonel Wilders command would come forward here, and that you should re-enforce Steedman with two good regiments, so that he can hold Franklin against all the cavalry they can bring. Our expedition moves to-morrow for their rear, and Wilder is to form part of another. Respectfully, G. P. THRUSTOX, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. MURFREESEOROUGH, January 30, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: General ilalleck telegraphs me that all the troops in your department are under your command, and that he has dispatched you to send me all you can spare. Please assume command, and order the Second Ohio Regiment of Cavalry, at Camp Chase, and also another full regiment, Tenth Ohio, that General Garfield reports to me as being at Cleveland, down hl~re as soon as possible. W. S. ROSECRANS Page 26 ~26 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CilAr. XXXV. MURFREESI3OR0IJGH, January 30, 1863. Major-General GRANGER: Have telegraphed to have two brigades sent to Olarksville. It is highly desirable cavalry and spare animals should go the same route, two brigades of infantry and two batteries to stop at CLarksville; balance to go to ~t{ashvi1le. W. S. HOSEORAKS, Major-General. MURFREESBOROUGH, January 30, 1863. Brigadier-General JOHNSON, Gommanding Right Wing: Send Brigadier-General Davis at daylight in the morning with his division on the Versailles pike to the forks of the road leading to Eagle- yule. They should take five days rations, their spades, and axes. On arriving at this point, select a good position for security against at- tack and surprise. Send one brigade of infantry and one of cavalry to surprise Unionville and Rover, and capture everything on the road; another brigade of infantry and one of cavalry to Eagleville, to capture any force there. The Rover expedition should return to his [Davis] camp. The brigade at Eagleville, after wiping out everything it can find, should take post on the road leading to the camp, if practicable, but near enough to command the Xolensville and Eagleville pike, and prevent anything from passing. Part of the brigade of cavalry that returns to camp must watch the road south and east, and keep open communication to the rear; the remaining can join the brigade at Eagle- ville. This division thus posted will act as a corps of observation, watching toward Shelbyville, and at the same time the movements of the rebel cavalry, which latter it will cut to pieces the moment an op- portnnity offers. Of course, General Davis will have discretion to act in this case, keeping us advised of everything. I think it would be prudent to protect his rear and keep open communication with him by directing General Sheridan to post a brigade at Salem to watch the Middleton road and keep all spying at a distance by sharp daily patrols. You will instruct General Davisaccordingly. W. S~ ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREES]3OROUGH, January 30, 1863. Brigadier-General STANLEY, Commanding Cavalry: The general directs that you send two brigades of cavalry, to be re- ported to General Davis, who will start early to-morrow morning toward Salem and Versailles. The object of the movement is to intercept any detachments of cavalry that may be found on the Nolensville or Shelby- ville pikes, and also to capture any of the enemys forces that may be found in the vicinity of Eagleville or Rover. Your brigades will be reported to General Davis by daylight to-morrow (Saturday) morning, and with three days rations with them, or five days would be better. Very respectfully, FRANK ~. BOND, Aide-de-Camp Page 27 ChAP. XXXV.J OOR1~ESPONDENCE, ETC.U~ION. 27 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, January 31, 1863. Capt. A. M. PENNOOX, U. S. Navy, Commanding Naval Forces, & c., Cairo, Iii.: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to call your attention to the importance to the army service of keeping the line of the Cumberland River between its mouth and Nashville constantly open to use of our steam transports, and request that, if withiu the naval means at your command, you as- sign to that portion of the river an iron-clad gunboat, plated with suffi- ciently heavy iron to resist field artillery, to assist in the above object. The Cumberland River during its present high stage affords the cheap- est and most ready means of supply for the army under General Rose- crans, and the importance of securing the safe passage thereon of the many transports engaged in furnishing any supplies will fully justify such a disposition of a gunboat of the character referred to, if you have one to spare. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, - Major-General, Commanding. HDQRS. 3D DIVISION, CENTER, 14TH ARMY CORPS, Mill Creek, near Nolensville, January 31, 1863. C. GODDARD:. In obedience to orders from Major-General Thomas, on the arrival of the two regiments from Gallatin, I moved my command to this place. From information received from citizens, I am convinced the enemy have moved several thousand strong in the direction of Franklin and Charlotte. I intend making a reconnaissance in the direction of Frank- lin in the morning. Respectfully, JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Commanding Third Division. V NASHVILLE, January 31, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: I have reliable information of about 1,000 mounted enemy passing down to or near the mouth of the Harpeth yesterday. I believe quite a force will concentrate there to annoy the fleet. They have some artillery. WM. TRUESDAIL, Chief of Police. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMEERLAND, No. 7. Murfreesborough, Tenn., January 31, 1863. The following resolutions of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio have been received, and, in accordance with the request contained therein, are published to this army Page 28 28 KY;, MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. Xxxv. JOINT RESOLUTIONS TENDERING A VOTE OF THANKS TO MAJOR- GENERAL ROSEORANS. Resolved by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That the thanks of this General Assembly are hereby tendered to Major-General Rose- crans, staff, officers, and the brave men under their command for the glorious victory resulting in the capture of Murfreesborough and the defeat of the rebel forces at that place. Resolved, That the sympathies of the General Assembly are extended to the families of the brave and noble patriots that have fallen in defense of freedom and constitutional liberty; and that their memories will ever be cherished by a grateful people. Resolved, That the Governor be requested to forward a copy of the foregoing resolutions to General iRosecrans, with the request that they be read to his command. JAMES IR. HUBBELL, ~S~peaker of the House of Representatives. P. HITCHCOCK, Pro tempore President of the Senate. By command of Major-General IRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff. Ab8traot from return of the Department of the Cumberland, Maj. Gen. Witliam S. Ro8ecrans commanding, for the month of January, 1863; headquarter8 Murfree8borough, Tenn. Present for -4 -~ 4 :3 a duty. ~. ~ .~ ~ Command. ~ c-~ ~ 4~ -4~4 -53 e be bO~ be 0 e 0 ~ o 4) 9 0 be be be 0 o ~ -~ ~ -~ ~ Department staff (Murfreesborough, Tenn.) 10th Ohio Volrmteers, provost guard (Murfreesborough, Tenn.). Fourteenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas: Staff and escort (Mnrfreesborough, Teun.) 9th Michigan volunteers, provost guard (Murfrees- borough, Teun.). First Division, Brig. Gen. Robert 5. Granger (Mur- freesborough, Tenn.). Second Division, Brig. Gen. James S. Negley (Mur- freesborough, Tenu.). Third Division, Brig. Gen. James B. Steedman (Murfreesborough, Tenn.). Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. JameaD. Morgan (Nash- ville, Tenn.). Fifth Division, Brig. Gen. John F. Reynolds (Mur- freesborough, Tenn.). Total Fourteenth Army Corps Twentieth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. A. McD. McCook: Staff (Murfreesborough, Tenn.) First Division, Brig. Gen. Jefferson C, Davis (Mur freesborough, Tenn.). Second Division, CoL William H. Gibson (near Mur- freesborough, Teun.). Third Division, Brig. Gen. Philip H. Sheridan (on Stone~s River.) Total Twentieth Army Corps 16 16 16 16 . 21 892 489 727 17 46 63 66 20 18 873 441 588 594 290 5,276 7,017 12,468 12, 613 18 247 5, 109 6, 991 9, 723 10, 126 11 330 6,215 7,364 10,025 10,753 6 265 4,851 6,424 8,408 7,878 217 4,121 5,038 7,150 7,471 14 1,384 25,991 33,333 49,028 49,455 49~ 4 4 - i87 3, 354 4, 603 7,813 8, 217 257 4, 558 5, 729 10, 670 11, 052 12 204 4, 179 5,298 8, 635 8, 807 12 648 12,091 15,630 27,122 28,080 2 Page 29 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 29 Ab8tract from return -of the Department of the Cumberland, ~o.Continued. 6 Present for ~. H ~ H 0 duty. -~ 0 Command. ~ ,ii. ~ o o.~ o~ cI~ -4.~ +~c~ --H ~ 0 0 nH 0 ;-0 ~ 0 0 bC C bt bL % 0 ~ ~ .~ p~ Twenty-first Army Corps, Maj. Gen. Thomas L. Crit- tenden: Staff (Murfreesborough, Tenn.) First Division, Brig. Gen. Mb S. Hascall (near Murfreesborough, Tenn.): Second Division, Brig. Gen. Charles Cruft (near Mnrfreesborough, Tenn.). Third Division, CoL Samuel Beatty (near Murfrees- borotigh, Teun.). Total Twenty-first Army Corps Post of Nashville, Brig. Gen. Robert B. Mitchell: Infantry .~. Cavalry Artillery Reserve Total post forces, Nashville Post of Gallatin, Brig Gen. Eleazer A. Paine: Staff Infantry Artillery Total post forces, Gallatin Post of Clarksville, Brig. Gen. Sanders D. Bruce: Infantry Cavalry Artillery 10 210 234 151 4, 019 3, 997 3, 347 10 5, 117 5, 069 4, 353 10 9, 397 9, 112 8, 555 9 10, 020 9,741 0, 257 18 20 16 605 11, 363 14, 549 27, 074 29, 027 54 36 671 967 1, 076 1 28 33 62 8 270 325 383 45 969 1,325 1,521 1 6 6 6 141 2,403 3, 392 4,404 4,444 1 64 76 134 143 143 2, 527 3,474 4, 544 4, 593 - 66 1, 279 1, 650 2, 265 2, 276 . 32 582 840 1,129 1,128 . 2 78 82 96 94 . Total post forces, Clarksville * 100 1,939 2,572 3,490 3,498 . Bowling Green, Ely., Brig. Gen. Mahion 13. Manson: Infantry ~. Cavalry Total post forces, Bowling Greeu * Cavalry Division, Brig. Gen. David S. Stanley - Chicago Battery, Capt. James H. Stokes Michigan Engineers and Mechanics, Col. William P. Innes. Signal Corps, Capt. Jesse Merrilf~ Pioneer Brigade, Capt. James St. C. Morton t Total unattached forces 100 1, 676 2, 540 3, 194 1,511 . 1 46 52 64 66 101 1,722 2,592 3,258 1,577 222 4,327 5,816 9,136 9.074 -- 4 105 122 140 140 22 406 529 846 857 30 64 103 111 111 48 890 1,216 2, 930 2,952 637 11, 995 16,430 22, 935 19,739 RECAPITULATION. Department staff and 10th Ohio Volunteers 37 392 505 743 16 Fourteenth Army Corps 1,384 25, 991 33, 333 49, 028 49, 455 49 Twentieth Army Corps-- 648 12, 091 15, 630 27, 122 28, 080 24 Twenty-first Army Corps 605 11, 363 14, 549 27, 074 29, 027 54 Unattached forces 637 11, 995 16, 430 22, 935 19, 739 Grand total. - 3, 311 61, 832 80,447 126, 902 126, 317 127 Also borne on return of the Department of the Ohio. See p. 30. t Not in total. CHAP. XXXV. Page 30 30 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIL& r. XXXV. Abstract from return of the Department of the Ohio, .Maj. Gen. Horatio G. Wright com- manding, for the month of January, 1863; headqearters Cincinnati, Ohio. Present for -~ -~ ~ duty. ~ ~. .~ a e a . Command. a ~,O .4-~ ~ ~ ~4.jQ A g~Ea g~~-~ o~ a an a u~ a ~ es bU a 0 ~ -~ -~ e~ ~ Department staff (Cincinnati) District of Western Kentucky, Brig. Gen. J. T. Boyle; Staff BowlingGreen, Ky., Brig. Gen. MahionD. Manson :* Staff Troops at post Clarksville, Tenn., Col. Sanders D. Bruce; Troops at post.* Munfordville, Ky., CoL Edward H. Hobson: Troops at post. Lebknon, Henderson, Louisville, & c., Col. William A. Hoskins: Troops of command. Total District of Western Kentucky District of Central Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Quincy A. Gilimore: Staff (Lexington, Ky.) First Bri a e Col. S. A. Gilbert (Frankfort, Ky.) - - Second Brigade, Col. B. P. Runkie (Danville, Ky.) -. Third Brigade, CoL C. C. Doolittle (Lexington, Ky.). 118th Ohio, CoL Samuel R. Mott (Cynthiana, Ky.) - - 1st Battalion 14th Kentucky Cavalry, Maj. Joseph W. Stivers (Mount Sterling, Ky.). Total District of Central Kentucky District of Eastern Kentucky, Col. Jonathan Cranor: Louisa, Ky Near Paintsville, Ky Total District of Eastern Kentucky -.. Cincinnati, Col. Sidney Burbank Newport Barracks, Ky., CoL Sidney Burbank Covington, Ky., CoL Jackson A. Lucy Total Cincinnati, Newport, and Covington Camp Chase, CoL August V. Kautz Camp Denaison, Lient. CoL George W. Neff.. Camp Butler, Ill., CoL William F. Lynch District of Western Virginia, Msj. Gen. Jacob D. Cox: Staff Marietta, Ohio, Capt. Frank Smith Buckliannon, W. Va., Brig. Gen. Augustus Moor.... Charleston, W. Va., Brig. Gen. E. P. Scammon...... Total District of Western Virginia 17 17 17 8 8 8. 7 7 7 7 92 2,027 3,181 4,986 5,340 84 1,550 2,058 2,783 . 129 2,372 2,852 4,009 9 205 3,717 4,792 7,045 525 9, 666 12, 898 18, 838 5, 347 11 10 11 11 133 3,152 3,935 4,613 6 50 975 1,371 1,779 6 97 1,662 2,430 3,131 6 36 759 873 893 10 301 375 396 336 6, 849 8, 995 10, 823 18 Z4 1, 589 1, 981 2, 390 2, 435 4 21 460 572 738 738 95 2, 049 2, 553 3, 128 3, 173 4 20 268 407 427 6 149 210 221 13 394 429 478 39 811 1,046 1,126 40 840 1,087 1,181 26 443 555 1, 349 21 368 523 712 11 . 11 11 11 2 88 100 110 111 149 2, 477 3, 238 4, 213 5, 893 4 176 4, 082 4, 989 6, 102 9, 947 338 6, 647 8,338 10, 436 15, 962 4 RECAPITULATION. Department staff . District of Western Kentucky District of Central Kentucky District of Eastern Kentucky Cincinnati, Newport, and Covington Camp Chase, Ohio Camp Denuison, Ohio Camp Butler, Ri District of Western Virginia Grand total Grand total department return for January, 1863.. 17 525 336 95 39 40 26 21 338 9, 666 6, 849 2, 049 811 840 443 368 6, 647 17 12, 898 8, 995 2, 553 1, 046 1,087 555 523 8, 338 17 18, 838 10, 823 3, 128 1, 126 1,181 1, 349 712 10, 436 5, 347 3, 173 15, 962 [,437 27 673 36 012 47,610 24,482 1,454 28, 289F 30, 622 47, 340 A1~o 1oi~ pn retuVil of t4ie Pepartmeut of the Crnnberlaud. See p. 20. 11 18 4 4 ,417 3 Page 31 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 31 WAR DEPART~EENT, Washington, February 1, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Miurfreesborough, fiJeun.: You have already more than your share of the best arms. Every- thing has been done, and is now being done, for you that is possible by the Government. Your complaints are without reason. You cannot expect to have all the best arms. The Government cannot give them.. Your cavalry is as well armed as that of Grant or Curtis. H. W. HALLECK, Uenerat-in4ihief. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 1, 18631 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Generat-in-Chi~f: Van Born, with his command of rebel cavalry, having been starved out in Mississippi, is ordered to join General Bragg. The enemy thea will have about 15,000 cavalry in Middle Tennessee. W. S. ROSECRAISTS, ]J/Iajor.Qenera~. MURFREESBOROUGH, TE~., February 1, 18632 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Generat-in-Ohief: I have direct information that Joe Johnston arrived at Tullahoma on the 27th ultimo, and Van Born, who was put in command of the rebel cavalry in Mississippi, has been ordered over here to subsist on the country and interrupt our communication. To meet this emergency we must bring down all the cavalry available, and add to it the mounting of brigades of infantry, for scouting and expeditionary purposes. If you will back me up, I am determined to command the country instead of giving it to the enemy. I shall ask you for things as they are needed. General Wright thinks the Second Ohio Cavalry, at Columbus, and the Tenth, at Cleveland, are not at his disposal. I advised him otherwise, but not having heard from him, advise you of it. Our first want will be arms. IDo not be weary of my importunity. No economy can com- pare with that of furnishing revolving arms. No mode of recruiting will so promptly and efficiently strengthen us. I am about to establish an ~5lite battalion in each brigade, composed of those soldiers from each company, one commissioned and five non-commissioned officers from each regiment, and one field officer from the brigade, to be selected for superior valor and soldierly bearing in battle and on duty. I promise them the best of arms when I can get them, and will mount them for rapid field movement, like flying artillery. Will you please aid me to get the arms? Even installments, to show that they will come some day, will answer. We must create military ardor. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major-Generat Page 32 32 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. CAIRo, ILL., February 1, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS, Alurfreesborough, Tenn.: Have sent your dispatch to the admiral. The vessels now under the command of Lieutenant.Commander Fitch to co-operate with you are the Lexington, Fairplay, Brilliant, Saint Clair, Silver Lake, and iRobb. A. M. PENNOCK, Fleet Captain, and Commandant of Station. CLARIiSVILLE, February 1, 1863. General W. S. ROSECRANS: Rebels on opposite side of river, 12 miles above, said to be 3,000 strong. Steamer Prairie Rose, from Saint Louis, with commissary stores, is here waiting for convoy. I have recovered good amount of stores, which were shamefully abandoned at foot of Shoals, on north side of the Cumberland. 4 S.D. BRUCE, Colonel, Commanding Post. MURFREESBOROUGr[, February 1, 1863. Col. JOHN T. CROXTON, La Vergne: I started courier a short time since, with reply to your dispatch of 5 a. m. The general commanding directed me to inform you that, as General Davis left Eagleville this morning for Franklin, he deemed it expedient for your force to return to La Yergne. I inclosed an order to that effect, to General Steedman, for you to forward. The line is now open to you, and I send this to expedite the matter. Please forward it to General Steedman. By order: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff. MUEFREESBOROUGIT, February 1, 1863. Colonel CROXTON, Commanding La Vergne: Dispatch from General Steedman just received from Mill Creek, near IN7olensville, announcing intention of making reconnaissance in direction of Franklin. Colonel Goddard has already informed you of General Davis movements in that direction, via Eagleville. The recon- naissance of General Steedman should be rather in the direction of Brentwood or Lanes Store, with view of ascertaining where the enemy have gone. The ~ thousand spoken of does not probably ex- ceed four. Inform General Steedman of this dispatch, and that he is to be governed by it. By command of General Rosecrans: HENRY STONE, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant.General. GALLATIN, February , 1863. Lient. F. S. BOND: I sent a report, two days ago, about the expedition. Twelve boats were destroyed, a skirmish was fought, several horses secured, & c. To Page 33 CUAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 33 (lay I had the news that seven boats were again collected at Carthage, and that Morgan is today passing across his cavalry and artillery. I doubt it, but shalJ know during the night. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General. GALLATIN, February 1, 1863. Lient. F. S. BoND: Where did Morgan cross the riverabove or below this place ~ Give iue some of the particulars. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier. General. GALLATIN, February [1], 1863. Col. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General: At dusk last evening an outlaw by the name of Peddicord, with 40 men, tore up four or five rails in the iRichland Woods, about 14 miles from here. They were attempting to burn a cattle guard on the road, when 15 men of the One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois approached. The rebels ran. They were dressed in our overcoats. I have 350 men after them, and 1 expect to hear that the rebels fell off their horses and broke their necks. Fifty or more citizens collected at the place with the rebels, to look on, aid, and assist. I propose to make an example of some of them. The trains are running. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier. General. NASHVILLE, February 1, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Large force has gone down Tennessee River country with 10-pounder artillery, under Wheeler. WM. TItUESDAIL, Chief of Police. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, February 1, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: If the Second Ohio Cavalry is in your department, nse it where most needed. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief HEADQUARTERS, ifurfreesborough, Tenm, February 2, 186311 a. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I am surprised that you mistake my meaning. I do not complain. I point out the way to victory. I tell how I think force is to be created 3 U RVOL XXIII, PT I Page 34 34 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. and maintained at slight expense. This war demands such a considera- tion, and many more, to save the waste of human life. Already our thinned regiments testify to this, and as there is no substantial gain from recruiting, I wish to be understood as making no complaints. The great point I make is, that the Government pays cost of trobps without getting the benefit of their strength. The other is, that no matter what the Government has done, or left undone, for this army, policy and duty demand means to meet the coming emergency. Why should the rebels control the country, which, with its resources, would belong to oar army, because it can muster the small percentage of 6,000 or 8,000 more cavalry than wef I want superior arms, to supply the place of numbers. Give revolving rifles in place of pistols. We must have cavalry arms, and the difference between the best and worst is more than a hundred per cent. in the daily cost of the troops. Excuse my earnestness in this matter; you probably see it much more clearly than I can explain. W. S. BOSEORAKS, Major. General, Commanding. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 2, 186312 m. Hon. E. N. STANTON: I telegraphed the General.in.Chief that two thousand carbines and revolving rifles were required to arm our cavalry. He replied as if he thought it a complaint. I telegraphed you also, to prevent misunder- standing. I speak for the country when I say that 2,000 effective cavalry will cost the support of near $4,000say $5,000per day. The power of these men will be doubled by good arms. Thus would be saved $5,000 per day. But this is the smallest part of our trouble. One rebel cavalry- man takes on an average 3 of our infantry to watch our communications, while our progress is made slow and cautious. We command the forage of the country only by sending large train guards. It is of prime neces- sity in every point of view to master their cavalry. I propose to do this, first, by so arming our cavalry as to give it maximum strength; secondly, by having animals and saddles temporarily to mount infantry brigades for marches and enterprises. We have now 1,000 cavalrymen without horses, and 2,000 without arms. We dont want revolvers so much as light revolving rifles. This matter is so clearly in my mind of paramount public interest that I blush to think it necessary to seem to apologize for it. I do hope the Government will have confidence enough in me to know I never have asked, and never will ask, anything to increase my personal command. Had this been understood when I went with Blen- kers division, this nation might have been spared millions of blood and treasure. W. S. ROSECRA~IS, ]Jfajor- General. WAn DEPARTMENT, Washington, February 2, 1863. Major-General ROSEORANS, Mwfreesborough, i enn.: The Governor of Massachusetts telegraphs that you have written to him, urgently asking Massachusetts troops for your army. The Secre- tary of War directs that you immediately forward to the Departmen Page 35 ChAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 35 a copy of any such letter written by you to the Governor of Massachu- setts. You will also state whether the Presiderft of the United States has authorized you to make requisitions on the Governors of States for troops. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLEOX, February 2, 1863. General-in-Chief: Have made no communication to the Governor of Massachusetts, nor to any other Governor, requesting troops or other supplies. Have, therefore, no copies of snch communication. Never expect to ask or receive the Presidents permission, nor to make, withont his permis- sion, requisitions on Governors for troops or supplies. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson, February 2, 1863. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, ]Jiurfreesborougk, Ienn.: Reports, confirmed by spy, that rebels have guns planted above and below near Palmyra, in a most eligible position, the country being broken and difficult of access. Have sent word to Colonel Bruce that any move he may make will receive co-operation from Donelson, and, if possible, from this point. Rebels reported to have an immediate force of 1,000 and 2,000 within easy supporting distance. I think the number must be exaggerated. Are there any gunboats above~? W. W. LOWE, 6~olonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson, February 2, i863. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: I start an expedition to-night to the vicinity of iDuck River. Sent reconnoitering party up Cumberland this morning, Colonel Bruce hav- ing sent word that 900 rebels, with one piece of artillery, are near Pal- myra. W. W. LOWE, 6olonel, Gommanding. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson, February 2, 1863. Col. A. C. HARDING, Fort Donelson, Tenn.: Have you any communication with Clarksville ~ If so, notify Colonel Bruce of confirmation of report, and that he will receive co-operatio Page 36 36 wx., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. from this direction in any move he may make. What is the distance from Donelson to Palmyra, and what the distance from there to (Marks- yule? By what road could yon reach Palmyra, and ho wfar (ask Haley) from New Portland across to that point, and what kind of road? Am just starting an expedition to Duck River. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., February 2, 1863. Maj. JOSEPH W. STIVERS, Commanding Mount i3terling, Ky.: MAJOR: The brigadier.general commanding directs me to write you that complaints of the most serious character are continually reaching these headquarters of the depredations of rebels in your vicinity. A few days ago I wrote informing you of outrages committed by guerril- las at or near Olympian Springs. Yesterday a letter was received from Owingsville, stating that a party of 150 rebels had surrounded the house of a Union man by the name of Jackson, living at Mud Lick Springs, murdered him, and also a man by the name of Yarber, who was in the house at the time, and shot a son of Mr. Jenkins. Other depredations had been committed upon Union citizens there, and their lives and property seemed to be altogether without that protection which it is their right to demand and expect. The general directs that you use all the means in your power to prevent a recurrence of such outrages. You will send out frequently strong scouting parties, and send them farther to the front than heretofore. That sectiou of the country is swarming with stragglers from the Confederate service, and Union men and women must not suffer from their lawlessness. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAM. M. KNEELAND, Lieutenant and Aide-de-6amp. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. ~. f 11Jiurfreesborough, Tenn., February 2, 1863. I. In accordance with General Orders, No. 9, War Department, Jan- nary 9,1863, the troops of this army are divided into three army corps the Fourteenth, Twentieth, and Twenty-first. The center, under the command of Maj. Gen. George II. Thomas, will hereafter be known as the Fourteenth Army Corps, the right wing, Maj. Gen. A. McD. Mc- Cook, as the Twentieth, and the left wing, Maj. Gen. T. L. Crittenden, as the Twenty.first. II. The following-named officers having reported in obedience to the orders of the War Department, are assigned to duty at these headquar- ters: Maj. William McMichael, assistant adjutant.general, Capt. Henry Thrall, assistant adjutant-general, and First Lient. Horace Porter, Ord- nance Corps, U. S. Army, to relieve First Lient. Theodore Edson as ordnance officer for this department. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of & aff Page 37 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 37 MURFEBESBOROUGH, TENN., February 3, 186310.30 p. m. E. M. STANTON: Paymasters have arrived with funds for payment of my command to October 31 only. I think this army richly merits all pay due it. The last payment was to August 31, and in the case of some fifty regiments was made after preparation of October rolls, which, of course, bear no trace of the August payment, and must, therefore, be made over. Oc- tober rolls of some regiments were lost in the late battle, and cannot well be replaced. Such commands, with many others, have their De- cember rolls only. The Acting Paymaster-General advises my chief paymaster that money for the December payment will probably be furnished by the time of conclusion of the October payment. This will require the trouble and labor of two payments, which might be em- braced in one. This is very undesirable, in view of the fact that my pay corpsby no means largeis mostly composed of paymasters just appointed, whose utter lack of practical experience would make a double payment slow, tedious, and unnecessarily burdensome. The present concentration of the bulk of my command presents an opportunity for a prompt and thorough payment which may not be long available. I earnestly request that Major Lamed be authorized to make his pay. ments to December 31 at once, and that funds for their comp]etion be immediately furnished. W. S. IIOSECIRAKS, Major- General, Commanding. MURFREESBOROUG-H, TENN., February 3, 186~ Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General: The following dispatch just received from Fort Henry: By an order from General Halleck, it would seem that the command in Fort Hel man is still retained, while Donelson and Henry are transferred to your department. This is bad business, and I hope the general will take measures to have HeimaH transferred. Part of my regiment is at each of these places. Part of one infantry regiment is on each side. My quartermasters storehouse is one side, and the com- missary depot on the other. Besides, it is utterly impossible to make correct returns and reports. More thaa this, I ought to be able to ~pcrate subject to tbe orders of one commander. W. W. LOWE, Colond, Commanding. Will you please give the necessary orders to correct this I W. S. IROSEOHAKS, ]Jliajor-Generat. Major-General IROSECRANS, WASHINGTON, D. 0., February 3, 1863. Murfreesborough: GENERAL: Your recent telegrams have been couched in terms im- plying a censure upon the Government for not properly supplying you with cavalry and cavalry arms. You are certainly under a grave mis- apprehension. You cannot be more anxious for success than the Gov- ernment is for you to succeed; the Government is as desirous of giving you the means of success as you are Iti i~e~eN~e them; but yours is no Page 38 38 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. the only nor the largest army in the field, and you are not the only gen- eral who is urgently calling for more cavalry and more cavalry arms. The supply is limited, and the demands of all cannot be satisfied. The Government must judge for itself what army is the most in need of and how far, with the means on hand, the wants of each can be supplied. For example, yourself, Generals Grant, Sibley, Banks, Hunter, Foster, Dix, and Schenck are all urgently demanding more cavalry. Of course, all cannot be supplied, nor, indeed, the full demands of any one. The Government has done everything in its power to raise and arm more cavalry, but if every regiment raised in the last few months in the whole country had been sent to you, to the exclusion of all others, your demands would not have been filled. The only alternative was to give you the authority which you asked for to mount a portion of your in- fantry. But you now bitterly complain of the want of better cavalry arms- that unless the Government supplies you with revolving rifles in place of pistols, & c., you will not be prepared for coming emergencies. You also ask for the best ~ superior arm5, & c. A few words of explanation will show how well founded are your com- plaints. It was alleged, and with good reason, last year that Western troops did not receive their fair proportion of good arms. To avoid any complaints of this kind in future, the Secretary of War, in August last, directed that the several qualities of arms should be issued to the vol- unfeers from different States in exact proportion to the number in the service, and in this proportion assigned to the different armies. To avoid any further abuses or partialities, Assistant Secretary Watson took the immediate direction of these issues, and I learn from him that your troops have received their full proportion of the best arm5, superior ~ & c. Certainly you cannot expect that you can have all the best arms and other troops receive only those of a lower grade. In regard to revolv- ing rifles, superior arms, & c., every one is issued the moment it is received. Those who cannot obtain these must use carbines, sabers, and pistols, or muskets. Even with these our cavalry is better armed than that of the enemy. Everything has been and will be done for your army which the Gov. eminent can do without injustice to other troops. You cannot expect the best of arms or of anything else, to the exclusion of others, who need them as much as you do. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK General-in- Chief. CAIRO, ILL., February 3, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Ililiurfreesborough, lenin.: Lieutenant-Commander Fitch informs me that he has arranged to leave Smithland for Fort Donelson every Monday, to convoy loaded transports, and to return with those which have discharged cargo. He talegraphs me nothing very serious up Tennessee Hiver, and no danger of either river being blockaded by rebels with the force that he has. Lieutenant-Commander Phelps agrees with him in this opinion. Have sent all your dispatches to the admiral. As soon as I hear from him, will communicate with you. A. M. PENNOCK, Fleet Captain and Commandant of & atiou Page 39 Giiir: XXXV.] COREESPONDENCE, ETO.UNION. 39 NASHVILLE, February 3, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: A scout just in reports that Whartons and Wheelers cavalry (6,000 men) and one battery of artillery left Franklin on Saturday evening last at 3 oclock for Harpeth Shoals, boasting they would take one hundred Federal transports, there being but two gunboats in convoy. Van Porn is across the Tennessee River with his command, and march- ing to Shelbyville, so Generals Cheatham and Walthall asserted last Friday evening. Bragg expects no other re-enforcements at present. Joe Johnston was at Tullahoma last Wednesday, but Bragg is in com- mand. He made a speech to his men there that day, and told them he would fight there. Full report to you in the morning. I consider the information reliably reported, and comes from high rebel sources. Respectfully, WM. TRUESPAIL, [Chief of Police.] MURPREESBoROUGH, February 3, 1863. Commanding Officer, La Vergue: Fiye hundred of Morgans cavalry reported to be west of road from here to Lebanon, with intention of cutting in on our trains. Look out for him. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant. General. MURPREESBOROUGH, February 3, 1863. Col. W. W. LOWE, Fort Henry: The general commanding directs me to say that you may at any mo- ment expect an attack from Forrest, and that you should use great vigilance to keep from being surprised. Please notify Fort Donelson. FRANK S. BOND, Aide.de.Can~p. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Forts Henry, lleirnan~ and Donelson, February 3, 1863. Col. A. C. HARDING, Fort Donelson: If you should be attacked, after making reconnaissance, get into your works, and hold position at all hazards. I can and will bring help dur. ing the evening and night. Let your command know this. Put a sup. ply of water and anything you may need inside the intrenchments. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson, February 3, 1863. Col. A. C. HARDING-, Fort Donelson: Notify Colonel Bruce of the demonstration being made here, and tell him as soon as it subsides you will give him assistance. He will be notified when and what force we can bring. Will get the couriers ready this evening. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, (ommanding Page 40 40 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CUAP. XXXY. MURFRFJESBOROUGH, February 3, 1863. Col. S. D. BRUCE, Clarksville: Wheelers rebel force attacked Fort Donelson this afternoon. Dont know results. Dispatch messenger to notify fleet of it, and send gun- boats down to help if you have them. Fleet left Louisville Sunday night with two brigades. Must be nearly there. W. ~. IROSECRANS. MrItFREESBOROUGH, February 3, 1863. Brigadier.General MITCHELL: The general commanding directs that you inform General Davis im- mediately that Forrest with his rebel force attacked Fort Donelson this afternoon. They will probably be driven back, and he wants General Davis to nse every possible exertion to intercept them. Communicate with the fleet below, if possible. They left Louisville Sunday night (two brigades), and must be near Donelson by this time. G. P. THRUSTON, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. MUIIFREESBOIIOUGII, [February~] 3, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Commanding Forces at Nolensville (via La Veryne): The general commanding directs you to start with your whole com- mand to-morrow morning at daylight, by way of Triune and ilarpeth, on Riggs Cross-Roads. You will there be joined by a brigade from Gen- eral McCooks corps, with which your force will co-operate. That bri- gade is instructed in regard to the joint operations. Take a forage train along. I have notified General Thomas of this order. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of & afr. HEADQUARTERS, Franklin, February 3, 1863. Colonel GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General: Rained all day yesterday. Roads very bad. Cavalry did little on account of it. Got here early this morning. The last of the enemy left yesterday morning toward Charlotte. Think they are all in that vicinity, with intention of troubling boats on the river. My cavalry is out of rations. Will send to Nashville to-morrow for them. Enemy variously reported 4,000, 5,000, and 10,000. Can whip him with all my force together if the cavalry were not so jaded, and would try then a dash with it alone. The enemy has six pieces of artillery. He may try to escape by the way of Columbia. I will try to stop him. Orders will reach me at this place. JEF. C. DXYIS. Probably March. Garfield was appointed chief of staff Feb. 28, 1863. See p. 92 Page 41 CHAP. X~X~r.) CO1?I~ESPONtR& CE, ]31T0.tINION. 4 LA VERGNE, February 3, 1863. Lieut. Col. C. GODDARD, Chief of Staff: Early this morning about 100 of Morgans cavalry crossed Stone~s River at Goodwins Ford, 6 miles from here; came within 4 miles of this place, and then turned to the right, down Stones River. Respectfully, JOHN T. CROXTON, Colonel, Commanding. TWENTY-FIRST ARMY CoRps, Lient. Col. LYNE STARLING, February 3, 1863. Assistant Adjutant-General, Twenty-first Army Corps: COLONEL .1 have the honor to report the following information, just received from scouts: General Forrest, with his cavalry, is at Chapel Hill. General Cheat- ham is encamped near Shelbyville, on the south side of Duck River. The dash made by your cavalry toward river caused a general falling back of all the rebel cavalry. Very respectfully, GEG. G. KNOX, Lieut. 1st Illinois Arty. and Chief of Scouts, 21st Army Gorps. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUNBERLAND, No. 31. ~Murfreesborough, Tenn., February 3, 1863. * * * * * * * XVI. Tbe transportation of this army will be at once reduced to the following limits: For each regiment of infantry, 10 wagons; for each regiment of cavalry, 25 wagons; for each battery of artillery, the same number of wagons that there are guns iu the battery; for each brigade headquarters, 5 wagons. Each division will be allowed an ammunition train of 25 wagons and a supply train of 40 wagons. All transporta- tion in excess of this allowance will be immediately turned over to Lient. C. II. Irvin, acting assistant quartermaster, at Nashville. It is made the duty of all inspecting officers to promptly report any regiment, brigade, or division which has transportation in excess of this allowance. * * .* * * * * By command of Major-General Hosecrans: II. THRALL, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. LOUISVILLE, Kr., February 3, 1863. [General ROSECRANS l:] Mv DEAR GENERAL: After perils by land and by water, negroism and abolitionism, worthless quartermasters, and vexatious of every kind and description, the infantry flotilla has at last sailed, about 12,000 strong, with four six-gun batteries, Generals Baird, Crook, and Gilbert commanding; the whole to rendezvous at Fort Donelson, and thence to proceed under convoy of guuboats Page 42 42 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Seven companies of the Second Michigan Cavalry leave to-night for Nashville by rail. Four to five hundred will now leave daily until all of the cavalry and cavalry animals, also pack mules, are shipped. One week or ten days will place them all in Nashville. There are yet two regiments of infantry to arrive from Northeastern Kentucky, and they will be sent forward as rapidly as possible. General Wright has been here for the last two days, assisting in embarking this force and pushing it forward. He has ordered me to remain here and superintend the moving of everything, until the last man and animal is shipped. Owing to the great scarcity of transportation, I have been able to send forward but few wagons with the troops. Capt. H. C. Ransom, assist- ant quartermaster, chief quartermaster of my forces, left this morning for your headquarters, to secure transportation and other accommoda- tions for them, upon their arrival at Nashville. I hope you will give all necessary orders and facilities to him for having everything in readi- ness, at the landing, upon their arrival. I was reluctantly compelled to abandon the expedition from Clarks- vile, proposed by yourself, as it was impossible to obtain either boats or barges sufficient to transport the troops to that point within a period of three or four weeks. All of our large boats, having sufficient ca- pacity to carry animals, have been converted into gunboats, Mosquito fleets, & c. I am in hopes to reach Nashville, in person, by Saturday or Sunday next. The fleet will probably reach there about the same time. Please write or telegraph me, in detail, anything you may suggest or desire me to attend to. Your friend, [G.] GRANGEB. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., February 3, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Commanding Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio: SIR: There seems to be no doubt that the rebels, -in considerable force, are entering the southern counties of the State, for what purpose is not exactly known. I intend to keep my forces well in hand until their plans are somewhat developed. If I only had the horse equip- ments for mounting m two infantry regiments, I would feel much stronger than I do. I inclose a letter from Colonel Gilbert. I get the same report from other sources. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General. [Inclosure.j HDQRS. FIRST BRIG., ARMY OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Frankfort, February 1, 1863. Capt. W. L. IVI. BURGER, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Army of Central Kentucky, Lexington: SIR: I deem it my duty to state that letters shown me by the Gov- ernor and adjutant-general, from Breathitt, Clay, and Laurel Counties, indicate the presence of considerable bodies of rebels in those localities. One item, deemed entirely reliable, is that the rebels at Cumberlan Page 43 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.1JNION. 43 Gap, said to be 4,000, are preparing to move; that they were about to send a train of 400 wagons into Clay County for forage. If there is any truth in this last item, we could demolish them, if it is thought advisable, and horses can be had on which to mount infantry. Respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL A. GILBERT. 6olonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, February 3, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Louisville, Ky.: General Gillmore telegraphs that reports from Stanford say that 3,000 rebels are marching on London, and encamped 29 miles from that place on the night of the 1st. Colonel [Henry B.] Carrington asks that you will send a confidential member of your staff~ to confer with him. Shall I send General [Henry] Van Rensselaer ~ N. H. MCLEAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. FRA]NKFORT, Ky., February 3, 1863. General BOYLE: Rebels entered Owingsville Sunday night [1st]; robbed all the Union stores, stole 40 or 50 horses, and took off as prisoners several Union men. Rebel force variously estimated at from 100 to 700. Large force crossed Cumberland at Waitsborough, in addition to those of Sunday. JNO. W. FINNELL, Adjutant- Generai. CORINTH, MISS., February 3, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Van Dorn is concentrating a force at Tupelo, Pontotoc, and Okolona of mounted men, whose destination is, I think, to Bragg and Kentucky. The scouts left Pontotoc Sunday. He then had over 5,000, with Whit- fields brigade yet to join him. They all say he is going to Kentucky. I think he is going to Bragg, from the fact that corn has been collect.ed on the Okolona and Decatur road at several points for his force, and one brigade has moved up that road. Southern papers of the 29th say that part of his force has already crossed the Tennessee; but I think not. They also speak of Morgan being out on an expedition. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Major-General ROSECRANS, Washington, February 4, 1863. illiurfreesborough, ftenn.: Fort ileiman, as an appendage to Fort Henry, will be attached to the Department of the Cumberland. H. W. HALLECK, General~in-Chief Page 44 44 KY., MID. AND K TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. tOn~. XXXV. CLARKSVILLE, February 4, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Sent 200 cavalry down. Heard nothing as yet. Cannonading was heard until 2 oclock last night. One gunboat was lying there yester- day. Harding was notified the day before by messenger from here that they were moving in his direction. Will advise you the moment mes- senger arrives. S. ft BRUCE, Golonel, Gommanding Post. NASHVILLE, February 4, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Wheeler and Forrest are defeated at Fort Donelson. They may all be taken, if General Davis can be informed at an early moment. They will return hugging the Tennessee River. I think General Mitchell leaves for Charlotte County to.night. WM. TRUESDAIL, Chief of Police. MURFREESBOROIJGH, February 4, 1863. Brig. Gen. JEFFERSON C. DAVIS, Franklin: Colonel Lowe telegraphs from Donelson that they have whipped the cavalry nnder Wheeler, Forrest, and Wharton. Forrest wounded. Rebels in full retreat. Lowes.cavalry following. He says they are out of rations and ammunition, and are retreating toward Charlotte and Shelbyville, and that a small force could capture the whole. Look out for them, and do your best to catch them. By order of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. FIRST DIVISION, FO1JRTEENTII AR1~IY CORPS, Franklin, Tenn., February 4, 1863. Colonel GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General: Dispatch in regard. to rebel attack on Donelson received. Will carry ont instructions to intercept the enemy with best of my ability. The cavalry is in bad condition, but is kept well out scouting in advance. I think the enemy will, if repulsed, retreat by Centreville. Will try and keep him out of Columbia. This is the most I can do in my present condition. Infantry badly off for shoes and supplies. Will try and get them at Nashville. My cavalry force is less than 1,000 effective men. If it were strong enough, I would go with it myself to Charlotte. Gen- eral Mitchell has informed me that he will co-operate with me. JEF. C. DAVIS Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Nashville, Tenn., February 4, 1863. Brig. Gen. JEFFERSON C. DAVIS, Commanding Division: GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose herewith copies of telegrams from Fort Donelson, which are self~explanatory.* * Not found Page 45 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 45 I send General Morgan with 1,000 cavalry and section of artillery to co-operate with you. I would send him to Charlotte, but am afraid the Harpeth cannot be crossed. I cannot find Colonel Cook nor the other officers to arrest them. Please advise me as often as possible of your movements. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, February 4, 1863. Major-General iROSECRANS, Murfreesboroug7~, Tenn.: I have just returned from Louisville, looking after embarkation of Grangers command. Water transportation exhausted, only enough being obtainable for the infantry. Barges not to be had, and arrangements have been made for taking cavalry, and the mules and horses, by rail, at the rate of 500 a day. This is the best that can be done. The Tenth Ohio Cavalry will not get horses before the 20th, and the Second not much sooner. They will both be sent you as soon as ready for the field. If you can dispense with the Fourth Kentucky Cavalry for a while, I wish you to do so, as the cavalry force in Kentucky has been reduced to a minimum. It returns about 220 men for duty. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. CORINTH, February 4, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Scouts in from Okolona; arrived to-night; left Monday. Van Dorn was there then, with his force, at that place, Cotton Ridge, and Ponto- toc. None of his forces have yet gone to the Tennessee. My cavalry have just come over; were sent to cut the roads leading from Okolona to Tuscumbia and Decatur. Came back by way of Bay Springs. No force had passed up toward Tennessee, but forage was being collected on Bolivar road, which we destroyed. When they move, I will endeavor to strike them. Roads bad. Streams very high. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier. General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, D. C., February 5, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: Two thousand four hundred and eighty-three Burnside carbines were shipped, February 3, from New York, by quick passenger train, for you, at Louisville. Lieutenant [Jacob II.] Smyser, the ordnance officer there, will hold them, subject to your order. These are the best cavalry arms we now have on hand. Colts revolving carbines can only be manu- factured at the rate of three hundred per month, and it would take a year to prepare machinery to manufacture them more rapidly. Every arm of that description, at present procurable, has already been for- warded to you. A further supply of the most efficient breech-loading carbines can be sent to you if required. P. H. WATSON, Assistant & cretary of War Page 46 46 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. CLARKSYILLE, February 5, 1863. General W. S. ROSECRANS: Following is just received from Donelson: DONELSON, [February] 4, [1863.] Colonel BRUCE: Your messengers of yesterday, and also the one by Mrs. Sherdin of to-day, are all here. The first were delayed yesterday by the enemy, who, about 2 p. in., attacked this post with eight guns and a force, fully 4,000, under Wheeler, Wharton, Forrest, and Woodward. In the battle they charged and charged again under continuous fire of shot and shell, and were finally driven back after many repulses. They sent in at the beginning of the fight and at the end of the battle, and offered to spare us if we would surrender, and with a threat that if we refused we must take the consequences, to which we replied that we would take the consequences. We killed more than 100 of the enemy, and have some 100 prisoners here; with the gunboats and the forces from Colonel Lowe, we got about 200 of them. Our loss is 12 killed and about 30 wounded. Among the killed we mourn Captain [Philo E.] Reed, (Company A); Lieutenant [Harmon D.] Bissell, quartermaster; Sergeant Campbellall promising officers. Neither the deail or the enemy are all yet in. Colonel Lowe has just come over, and the enemy are being pursued. We had not more than 800 men, and our artillery ammunition giving out, left us nothing but the infantry, with their rifles and bayonets. Gunboats and a large force of infantry from below are here. A. C. HARDING, Colonel, Gommanding. S. 1). BRUCE, Colonel, Commanding Post. MURFREESBOROUGH, February 5, 1863. Col. S. ID. BRUCE, Clarksville: The general commanding sends his thanks for Colonel Hardings dis- patch, and asks if you cannot cross the river and pitch into the retreat- ing rebels with all your force, leaving only your camp guard. G. P. THRUSTON, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. MURFREESBOROUGH, February 5, 1863. Col. S. D. BRUCE, Clarksville: Dispatch from Donelson says rebels retreating toward Charlotte. Grangers fleet was at Donelson last night. Have telegraphed to have him land a force at Palmyra and intercept retreat. The rebels are out of ammunition and rations and in full retreat. By order: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff. MURPREESBOROUGH, February 5, 1863. Col. W. W. LOWE, Fort Donelson: If rebels are retreating toward Charlotte, a force might be landed from fleet at Palmyra and cut them off completely. General Davis is near Franklin with large infantry force and two brigades of cavalry. He has been advised to look out for them. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff Page 47 CRAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 47 LA VERG~NE, February 5, 1863. Lieut. Col. C. GODDARD, Chief of Staff: The cavalry sent out this morning report that the force that crossed Stones River on the 3d recrossed, as I supposed, on the same day. Moved yesterday toward Lebanon. They numbered 300. Only 110 crossed the river. There is a small squad who nightly come ou to the road to Nashville and before day scatter across Stones River. I will endeavor to overhaul them. Respectfully, JOHN T. CROXTON, Colonel, Commanding. LA VERa-NE, February 5, 1863. Lieut. Col. C. GODDARD, Chief of Staff: The force referred to by Captain Thompson, of the courier line, must have been the one mentioned in my former dispatch, which crossed the river at Goodwins Ford early on the morning of the 3d, came within 4 miles of this place, turned to the right, down the river, and recrossed at the mouth of Hurricane Creek. The cavalry from this place scoured that region yesterday, and only confirmed what I heard before and communicated to the commanding general. Yesterday evening I sent a citizen across Stones River to report accurately as to the rumored force there, and he has not returned. This morning three companies of cavalry have gone in that direction, and I will report promptly the re- sult of their reconnaissance. A company of cavalry has also gone with the workmen to repair the line, and discover, if possible, the perpe. trators. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JOHN T. CROXTON, C~olonel, EJommanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]JJiurfreesborough, February 5, 18637.50 p. m. Hon. HENRY WILSON, Chairman U. S. Senate L1ommittee on Military Affairs, Washington, D. C.: Permit me to suggest two measures of vast importance to our future success. The law should provide for the summary hearing and punish- ment of officers by brigade or division commanders, in a manner simi- lar to that of enlisted men by regimental field officers, for all minor offenses, such as neglect of duty, waste of pnblic property, neglecting the subsistence or clothing of the soldiers under their command, by fines or extra duty. The other is that this Congress should pass a law resuming its control over the militia. We may not be able to do this necessary thing in the next. We must do all we can to economize our troops, and prepare for emergencies. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General Page 48 48 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OLL4P. XXXV. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 12. f ]Iiiurfreesborough, Tenn., February 5, 1863. The following extract from General Orders, No. 151, War Depart- ment, October 4, 1862, is published for the information of this army: II. If any officer shall hereafter, without proper authority, permit the publication of any official l,etter or report, or allow any copy of such document to pass into the hands of persons not authorized to receive it, his name will be submitted to the Pres- ideut for dismissal. This rule applies to all official letters and reports written by an officer himself. The general commanding has been surprised to observe the frequent violation of this order by officers of this army, and regrets that they should allow any desire thus to ventilate their achievements to lead them to commit so serious a breach of military propriety. He feels that his duty requires him to comply with the terms of the order quoted, and report the names of officers so offending to the President for dismissal. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, liD QUS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 33. ~ ]Jfurfreesborough, Tenn., Feb. 5, 1863. * * * * * * * XVII. The general commanding feels great pleasure in announcing as first of his company upon the Roll of Honor of this army, Sergt. Thomas Branch, Company 1, Tenth Michigan Volunteers. In command of a squad of 25 men, Sergeant Branch, on the 25th of January, hearing the firing of the rebel guerrillas on the construction train on the Nash- ville and Chattanooga Railroad, disposed his men in an admirabic man- ner, moved them at double-quick to the front of attack, and charged upon a force more than double his own numbers, and supported by still larger reserves, put them to flight at the point of the bayonet, and then recovered and brought back with him the engine and cars, which had been thrown from the track and set on fire. It is such conduct as this that makes men soldiers, and that the general commanding is proud to honor. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: H. THRALL, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. FEBRUARY 5, 1863. Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, (]omdg. District of Central Kentucky, Lexington, Ky.: GENERAL: I am directed by the major-general commanding to ac- knowledge the receipt at these headquarters of a letter of Col. S. A. Gilbert, commanding at Frankfort, dated February 1, and forwarded by you on the 3d instant, in relation to the presence of bodies of rebels in certain southeastern counties of Kentucky, and reporting an expected foraging expedition of the enemy into Clay County. I am instructed to say that if the information contained in the letter of Colonel Gilbert shall appear to your satisfaction to be reliable, a force should be at once organized and sent down to clear out the enemy from that part of the~ State Page 49 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 49 In regard to the mounting of infantry, information has already been sent to you. Equipments have been forwarded, and arrangements made for sending horses by which you should receive them by the middle of next week. By command of Major-General Wright: I have the honor to be, general, respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. MOE, Captain and Aide-dc-Camp. LOUISVILLE, Ky., February 6, 1863. Colonel STAGER: Telegram from Brigadier-General Sullivan, Jackson, Tenn ., says scouts report Longstreet in Virginia. Bragg re-enforced by conscripts only. Van Porn intends leading cavalry attack on ]Ilosecrans rear. Moved east for that purpose. Forrest in Richmond. indications of Bragg fall- ing back. Sending stores to rear. BRUCH. MURFREESBOROUGH, February 6, 1863. Brigadier.General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: It seems, from recent news, that some of Morgans men, I know not how many, have been assemblin.g about Albany and crossing into Ken- tucky, and toward Jamestown and Glasgow. Some definite plan must be devised, and carried out, to drive off or exterminate these savage marauders. W. S. iROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, February 6, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio I did not write you becanse I was too busy and uncertain of the re- sult of the battle. It is now evident that their loss was excessive. Their own officers and men estimate their loss at from 13,000 to 15,000. I now wish to push them to the wall, but the pursuit will be heavy work. Send me what force you can spare, and take care of the rail- road. I will write you soon. I congratulate you on the success of the Carter expedition and the final expulsion of John II. Morgan. I wish you would get ready a large lot of saddles and horses, and mount your infantry, to pursue him the next time he makes a raid. W. S. IROSEC1IANS, ]iliajor- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE. Cincinnati, Ohio, February 7; 1863. (Jomdg. Central District of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky.: GENERAL: I have information, from what seems to be a truly reliable source, that there are officers and men of the rebel army, to the number of a hundred or more, in Owen County, not in companies, nor claiming 4 R RYGL XXIII~ PT I Page 50 50 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. to be deserters, but men who have returned home for their own con- venience, and who, by not reporting themselves to the military authori- ties, show themselves ready to take part again in the rebel cause when an opportunity offers. The county referred to has always been consid~ ered disloyal, and as requiring to be watched. The statement just given makes it more imperative to look after it. You will, therefore, send there, and keep for the present in that vicinity, one or two compa nies of cavalry, with orders to the officer in command to arrest all per- sons who may have been connected with the rebel army, and, returning therefrom, have not delivered themselves up to the military authorities, and obtained written permission to remain unmolested by the mili- tary authorities in Kentucky. All persons arrested will be sent to Lex- ington, with the necessary proof in the case, where they will undergo such further examination as may be necessary. Intelligent and prudent officers should be selected for this service. Similar steps will be taken in regard to other sections of your district where the necessity for such action exists. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson, February 8, 18638 p. m. General ASBOTH, Columbus, Ky.: Report has just come in, by some of the men of this command, that Colonel Robison [f], of the rebel army, reached Huntingdon yesterday, with 2,000 men. It is said to be part of Van Dorns force. I will keep you advised of anything I may hear. I think we can take care of Colonel Robison. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Forts Henry, Heiman, and Donelson, February 8, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: No news of importance. We are fixing things, both at Donelson and Henry, so that at either point we will be in better condition for defense. Sent 75 prisoners to Louisville; 44 of them captured at Donelson, and the rest on west side of Tennessee River, by Lieutenant Beatty, of the Fifth Iowa Cavalry. They have been recently (before the fight) at- tempting to forage on west side of Tennessee River, but we have de- stroyed all their boats as high up as Duck River. W. W. LOWE, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLUMBUS, February 8, 18636 p. m. Major-General HURLEUT, Commanding Sixteenth Army Corps, Memphis, Teun.: Major-General Hamilton telegraphs to-day that the commanding gen~ erals instructions were to remove all heavy guns from the east bank o Page 51 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE,- ETC.UNION. 51 the river, at points between Memphis and Columbus. I have already unspiked and remounted eight guns at Island No. 10, placing the island once more in proper defense. I have also made all preparations for the shipment down the Mississippi of seventy-two spiked guns, carriages, and other valuable ordnance stores on the island, some of which have already reached Memphis. The only available artillery at Fort Pillow consists of one 18 and one 3 pounder. I intended to strengthen Fort Pillow with some light artillery, to enable the garrison to break up and capture Colonel Richardsons and iDawsons camp of from 1,000 to 1,300 men, near Covington. Being under the impression that the orders of the general commanding department alluded only to dismounted heavy guns strewn over the various posts, I hope that these, my arrangements, may not be in conflict with his above order. Anxious, however, to comply fully with superior orders, I would respectfully ask your in- structions in the matter for my guidance. To secure the safe navigation of the Mississippi, I consider it most important to hold strongly not only Island No. 10 and Fort Pillow, but garrison also Hickman. 0 ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CoLuMBus, February 8, 18030.50 p m. Major-General HURLEUT, Gommanding Sixteenth Army Uorps, Memphis, Tenn: By orders from Washington, of the 23d of January, Forts Henry and Donelson were transferred to the Department of the Cumberland. I informed the respective commanders accordingly. Urging the returns from Fort Heiman, Colonel Lowe telegraphed yesterday that he con- siders Fort Heiman also a part of the Department of the Cumberland. Giving him proper explanations, I directed Lieutenant-Colonel Patrick, the commander of Fort Heiman, to forward his returns at once directly to these headquarters. To-day, however, Colonel Lowe again telegraphs that, in accordance with orders from General Rosecrans, Fort Heiman forms an appendage to Fort Henry, and will be assigned to the Depart- ment of the Cumberland. My only available cavalry force, ten coin- panies Fifth Iowa Cavalry, and the only light battery, Second Illinois Artillery, form part of the garrison of Heiman. Deprived of the fort and its garrison, the District of Columbus is crippled, and the vast country lying this side of the Tennessee River, and comprising Marshall, Calloway, and Graves Counties, remains uncontrolled by Union forces. I was ordered to send three companies of cavalry to Memphis. Only two companies are left here. I cannot properly scout the country and feel the enemys movements. I would, therefore, request that proper steps be taken to prevent any decisive order depriving the Department of the Tennessee of Fort Heiman, and that Major-General Rosecrans be requested to direct Colonel Lowe, commanding at Fort Henry, not to interfere with the garrison of Fort Heiman, as it is at present undoubt. edly out of his jurisdiction. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. [FEBRU4RY 8, 186J.For General Orders, No. 14, of this date, from Headquarters Department of the Cumberland, see Series II. Page 52 52 KY~, MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, February 9, 1863 Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati. Ohio: The Secretary of War directs that Brigadier-General Ellet be per- mitted to recruit for his ram fleet from convalescents in your department. The men so recruited by him will be discharged from their regiments. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. MURPREESBOROUGH, February 9, 1863. General A. BAIRD: The general commanding directs me to say that it is highly important to occupy Franklin with a division or a strong brigade as soon as pos. sible, both on account of forage and to open the road. Special. By command: HENRY STONE, Lieutenant and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CLARKSV1LLE, February 9, 1863. General IROSECRANS: From cavalry reconnaissance made on south side of river yesterday, we find enemy gone to Columbia. We captured 8 with their horses, wonndiug 1 man severely. S. D. BRUCE, Colonel, Commanding Post. NASHVILLE, February 9, 1863. Major-General iROSECRANS: The First East Tennessee Cavalry have just returned from a hard expedition with General Davis. Their horses are nearly all barefooted. Time should be given them here to get their horses shod, to pnt their regiment on an effective footing. I have consulted with General Mitchell, and he concurs in this opinion. I hope that Captain Abbotts battery, now at Clarksville, will be permitted to return here and join the rest of the Tennessee forces. I think I will come with General Mitchell. I hope a few days will be granted them, at least. ANDREW JOHNSON, Military Governor. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 37. f ]IiIiu~freesborough, Tenn., Feb. 9, 1863. * * * * * * * XIX. The following orders, issued by Brigadier-General Boyle, com- manding Department of Western Kentucky, are approved by the major- general commanding this department, and Chaplain Gaddis, Second Ohio Volunteers, is ordered to return to duty with his regiment. ORDERS.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF WESTERN KENTUCKY, LoUi8ville, Ky., Jaauary 19, 1563. Chaplain W. P. Gaddis, Second Ohio Volnnteer Infantry, having reported to these headquarters that lie was taken prisonP-r on the 13th day of January on the Cumbe Page 53 CHA?. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 53 land River by the rebel General Wheeler, and released on the following conditions: That upon the arrival of the steamer Hastings with wounded men at the city of Louis- ville, Ky., the 1,011 bales of cotton on the boat, said to belong to private parties, should be burned on the wharf of the said city; and, in the event of this not being done, he was to report himself to the Confederate authorities within twenty days from the date of parole; Mr. Gaddis, being a non-combatant, and not being a prisoner of war accord- ing to the terms of the cartel agreed upon by the representatives of the United States and the so-called Confederate States, he is hereby positively forbidden to burn the aforesaid cotton, or to deliver himself to the Confederate authorities. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General iRosecrans: H. THRALL, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 10, 18631 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: If you could give me General Buell, and he would be willing to serve in my army, it would be good for the service. Thank you for General [W. W] Burns. W. S. ROSECIIANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROTJG-H, February 10, 1863. Capt. LEROY FITCH, Commanding Gunboats: Cant we get three gunboats and four transports up the Tennessee in ten days, to intercept Van Born I Infantry to come from Corinth or Donelson, or Henry or Nashville. Please answer, care of General Mitchell. W. S. IROSECRANS, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 16. f Miurfreesborough, fEel m, February 10, 1863. I. It having been frequently reported to the general commanding that Confederate soldiers approach our lines dressed in our uniforms, and that they have appeared thus in battle, and have even, savage-like, carried our colors to deceive us, it is ordered that none so dressed shall receive when so captured the rights of prisoners of war and that in battle no quarter be given them. When captured singly or in squads, prowling about our lines, they shall be deemed spies, and treated ac- cordingly. The general warns all officers and men under his command to be on their guard against these violators of the rules of civilized war- fare. All foraging and scouting parties, all patrols, and all troops on the march are enjoined to arrest and examine all persons wearing our uniform, and, if found to be wearing it without lawful authority, to forward them at once to the provost-marshals of~heir commands for identification and investigation, and thence to the provost-marshal- general of the department, that they may be dealt with as they de- serve Page 54 M KY., MID. A~P t. 1ENN., N. ALA., M~D SW. VA. tCv~r. XXXV. II. All citizens and servants wearing the United States uniform with- ont permission will be arrested, stripped, and punished according to the nature of the offense. Quartermasters will at once make requisitions for clothing to be issued to servants and employ6s not entitled to wear the uniform. By command of Major-General IRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Acting Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of & aff. CORINTH, Miss., February 10, 1863. Major-General IROSEGRAINS: One of my scouts left Van Dorn Snuday night. He then had two regiments and one battery across the Tombigbee, at Cotton-Gin Port; was crossing slowly, and all his forces had not got to him. His men and officers said he was going to Bragg. His stock is not in good condition. He appears to be going the Pikeville and Russellville road. What little capacity [sic] I have is over there. Streams are high, and roads bad. We captured mail from Bragg~s army yesterday. All the officers and privates letters express a belief that Bragg is fixing to fall back, some say to Huntsville, some to Bridgeport. You can judge how reliable such suspicions are. I have endeavored to get a gunboat up to Florence, and if one could go there it could destroy all the forces, and check Van Dorn materially. I will co-operate with it in any way to benefit the service. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. HDQRs~ FIFTH DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Miurfreesborough, Tenn., February 10, 1863. MAJOR: It has occurred to me that some facts not strictly belonging to the military .report of the recent expedition of the Fifth Division should be made known,* and I have accordingly prepared the follow- ing narrative: Left Murfreesborough on the morning of February 3, and bivouacked that night at Auburn, about 22 miles by the southein road. The in- habitants genera~lly on this days march kept aloof from us, and evinced no pleasure at our coming. Auburn, a small village, was nearly de- serted, and most of the houses unoccupied, and the people who were there remained in their houses. We noticed an occasional farm deserted, and everything that could subsist man and beast gone. Such places belonged to loyal men whose property had been taken by the rebel army, and whose families were refugees, the sons in many cases being conscripts in the rebel service. Where a farm presented any appear- ance of life and prosperity, forage, animals, and people would be found, the property belonging to rebels and the forage and animals spared by the rebel army. On the morning of the 4th, we started early on the road to Liberty. Soon after leaving Auburn and entering a more broken country, I dis- covered small bodi~ on the hills. These bodies did not act in any con- cert. Some were armed, and others not. We at once discovered the * See expedition from Murfreesborough to Auburn, & e., iebrumry 35, Part I, p. 42 Page 55 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 55 armed men to be the enemys scouts, and took means to brush them away. The unarmed parties ran and concealed themselves, apparently as anxious to be out of sight of the armed parties as of our own force. After the armed parties were driven back, the others rushed into the road and joined our column, expressing the greatest delight at our coming, and at beholding again what they emphatically called our flag. These men had been driven to the hills to escape conscription, and were daily being hunted up by conscription agents, aided by mounted men. Food was carried to them by women, children, and old men. As the column passed the houses of these persecuted loyal men, their women and children crowded the doors to bid us welcome and beg us to stay. As we approached Alexandria, the loyal sentiment increased and men and women marched along with our column, staring at the old flag, and conversing about the good clothes and general good appear- ance of the men. These people were generally illiterate and somewhat timid, and did not seem to understand much about the present troubles, except that their more wealthy and better-informed ueighbor~ insisted upon the poor people taking up arms to oppose the Government that they had been taught to love, and which had never oppressed them, to support a so-called Government which they knew only by the fact. that they had been oppressed by it from its very beginning, and had been torn from their families to fight against their real friends, and for those whom they only knew by name and sight, as wealthy and overbearing, and for the defense, as they were told, of a species of property with the possession of which they had never been burdened, and were not likely to be. Liberty and Alexandria both exhibited much loyal feeling. Lebanon had been quite a stronghold for the rebels, though not with- out its devoted loyal inhabitants. There were loyal men living here and there on our route for whom I sent, and conversed freely with. The observations of one day would serve as a sample for allthe property of loyal men despoiled, that of rebels protected. The mode of Procedure generally seems to have been for the rebels to call upon their friends to contribute supplies and forage for their camps; the rebels assent, and haul to their camps (they say) all they can spare; more is wanted, the loyal men are visited, and, without con- sulting them as to quantity, their provisions, corn, wheat, forage, and animals are taken without limit, until they are left in a condition that is rapidly becoming one of absolute want. The sentiment was universal among the loyal men that nothing would affect their rebel neighbors but a course of treatment such as had been visited on them by the rebel army. Instances are plenty and came under my own observation where one of two near neighbors would be almost destitute from the ravages of the rebels, while the rebel next door was very slightly inconvenienced; in fact, the rebels many times refused to furnish supplies to their own soldiers, in which cases they would be taken from the nearest loyal man. We have been shocked at cases coming to our knowledge, exhibiting a total disregard of the commonest claims of humanity. Old men and women have been left to shift for themselves as best they could, and their sons all conscripted. When we had occasion to take an animal from a secessionist, the Uniou men would rgjoice, and say we might have the last they had if we would only serve the rebels as the rebel army had served them. (My military report will show what was done on this point.) If the present state of things is permitted to exist much longer, the Union people will be without subsistence, and will be compelled t Page 56 ~6 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [Cu.u. XXXV. leave the country or live off the rebels; the latter they will not be per mitted to do, and the former many of them cannot do. At present that part of the country through which the expedition passed may be said to be possessed by the rebels. Can this state of things be changed ~ Very simply. The rebel inhab. itants possess forage, animals, and provisions, much of which property animals and forage particularlyour army actually needs, and the pro. visions can be profitably used or distributed to those families which the rebel army has despoiled. If their homes (which they have forfeited) should thus be made, as they ought to be made, too hot to hold ~ let these rebels go farther south in quest of their rights, and where they will be with their friends. Rebellion seems to have so seared the feelings of some of these people that, after the men are forced into the army, their families are entirely neglected, in many cases, too, in violation of solemn promises to the contrary by those who remain to guard that property, for which those not possessing any, or but little, are forced to go to the field. I know of one case in Murfreesborough where two women, whose hus- bands are both in the rebel army, live together; one was about to be confined, and sent for her family physician, who refused to go, and re- ferred the messenger to another rebel physician, who also refused. The only excuse they pretended to offer was that they were practicing in the rebel hospitals, and did not want to be troubled with such cases. These physicians are represented as men of means (which they had made in this-community), but the husband of this woman was in the rebel army, and the doctor cared no further for the family, as the fighting portion of it was already in the army for the protection of the property that the doctor was quietly enjoying. Our division surgeon left his bed and visited this woman. It has been very strongly advocated in the loyal States that the sup. pression of the rebellion can best be accomplished by cultivating, en- couraging, and developing the Union sentiment in the disloyal States. If the white population of the rebel States were a homogeneous one, like that of the loyal States, the idea would be reasonable, but as facts actually exist it amouxits to nothing, because there is no Union senti- ment in the rebel States (with here and there a noble exception) among that class of men who wield the political power of these States, and the only effectual mode of suppressing the rebellion must be such a one as will conquer the rebellious individuals now at home as well as defeat their armies in the field; either accomplished without the other leaves the rebellion unsubdued. We captured during our recent expedition a rebel mail.carrier and mail just from Tullahonia. The mail was principally made up of letters from the soldiers in the rebel army to their families in the neighborhood of Lebanon. These letters breathed but one sentimentall tired of the war, and wanted to return home and remain there. Many said they would not go any farther south, and expressed a desire to desert, but feared in that case the Argus eyes of the rebel inhabitants at home, who would watch them and report them to the conscript agents, by whom they would be seized and sent back to their regiments and to death. These letters stated most positively that deserters from the rebel army were shot in various instances, and. that citizens who had guided the Federal army were hanged. Here we have the sentiments of these conscripts from their very hearts, for they are writing to their wives and children, and can have no induce- ment to deceive. ~These men woul4 doubtless desert but for fear o Page 57 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tINION. 57 being returned by those who remain at home to guard their own prop- erty and watch these oppressed men. The remedy for this state of affairs appears very simple: Despoil the rebels as the rebel army has despoiled the Union men. Send the rebels out of the country, and make safe room for the return of loyal men. Let these loyal men feel that the country is once in their possession instead of being possessed by their oppressors. Aid them in its possession for awhile, and they will soon acquire confidence sufficient to hold it. J. J. REYNOLDS, ]Jiajor- General, Commanding Division. Maj. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of StatT [Indorsements.] HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, lllurfreesborough, Tenn., February 11, 1863. Respectfully referred for the consideration of the Government. This report exhibits a state of affairs by no means peculiar to Ten- nessee. The State of Ken tncky is in the same condition. The question is what policy to adoptthe conciliatory or the rigid. The conciliatory has failed, and however much we may regret the necessity, we shall be coml)elled to send disloyal people of all ages and sexes to the south, or beyond our lines. Secessionism has so degraded their sense of honor that it is next to impossible to find one tinctured with it who can be trusted. GEO. II. THOMAS, M~jor-General U. S. Volunteers, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]liliurfreesborough, Tenn., February 18, 1863. Respectfully forwarded for the information and consideration of the War Department.* ~. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 11, 18634.20 p. In. His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States; The enemy will direct all its operations to interrupt onr connection. To prevent this it is absolutely necessary to patrol the rivers. Infor- mation in possession of the commanding general and post commanders must be promptly acted upon. It is, therefore, absolutely necessary to have the gunboats which co-operate in that work directed to report to, and receive instructions from, the general commanding, or, in his ab- sence, the conmanders along the river districts. The officers command- ing gunboats express a willingness to co-operate with the department, but in order to make their aid effective and~prompt, such arrangements should be made. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General, Gommanding. See Halleck to Rosecrans, March 5, p. 107 Page 58 58 KY., MID. AND IL TI~NN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. FEBRUARY 11, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. IIOSECRANS, Gorndg. Dept. of the Cumberland, Jtliurfreesborough, Tenn.: GENERAL: Your dispatch of the 9th instant, asking if I would be able to occupy a line from Glasgow, Edmonton, Jamestown, and Somerset, with an ad vance line at Petersburg, Tompkinsville, and Burkesyille, was answered by telegram yesterday. With the force left in Kentucky, it does not seem to me best to attempt such occupation, for the reasons that the forces which could be assigned to the various points would not be strong enough to hold them against any serious attack, and even to place small garrisons at those points would involve the serious weaken- ing of the garrisons at points on the railroad which it is important we should hold. General Boyles return for January gives his effective force as follows: Bowling Green, enlisted men for duty, 1,843; Clarksville, 1,550 (not including Second Battalion Eighth Kentucky Cavalry, attached to Colonel Bruces command, but stationed at Hopkinsville, of which there was no return); Munfordville, enlisted men for duty, 2,372; Lebanon, Ky., 985; Henderson, Ky., and all northwest portion of the State 1,104; Muldraughs Hill, 328; Elizabethtown, 236; Louisville, including pro- vost guard, 480, and Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, sent to scour the country in the vicinity of Cumberland Itiver about Burkesville, & c., 584. In Central Kentucky I have some 6,000 men in all. From the above you will see, I think, that it is impracticable for me to attempt to defend Kentucky by occupying a line along the lower part of the State. The most that it has been proposed to do, and is in ac- cordance with the views of General Halleck, is to protect the line of rail- road, and, by occupying two or three points elsewhere, to keep down disturbances. At this season of high streams and bad roads, I do not think any serious demonstration will be made by the rebels upon the State; but if they should, I shall have to call upon you for aid. You are in advance; the important results must be accomplished by you, and I have been desirous of giving you my best officers and men, and have reduced my force both in Kentucky and West Virginia to an ab- solute minimum in order to put you in condition for a fight. The Second and Tenth Ohio will be sent you as soon as they can be got ready. Neither are fully mounted, and the former is not armed. Hope they will be ready in twenty days. They will both be strong, a battalion of the Eighth, now in Kentucky, being added to the Second. I have talked somewhat with Colonel [Joseph C.] McKibbin, who will take this. He may be able to enlighten you in regard to certain mat- ters of detail. Very respectfully and truly, H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, February 12, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: Your dispatch about river patrolling received. I have called the Secretary of Navy, Secretary of War, and General-in-Chief together, and submitted it to them, who promise to do their very best in the case. I cannot take it into my own hands without producing inextri- cable confusion. A. LINCOLN Page 59 enir. x~XV.I ~O~d1tS~ONt4~NCE, E~ICC.I~NtON. 59 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, February 12, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, Commander-in- Chief, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: The occupation of the points indicated in my telegram will not, of course, be advisable permanently, nor in such manner as to leave the posts as baits for rebel enterprise. I wish to so Qccupy them as to give me the means of preventing the enemys enterprises on our communications, and exclude him from nsing its forage and con- scripting its men, without being cut to pieces. I dont think any troops from Virginia have arrived here, nor do I think any have gone from here, unless very recently. They have three divisions near Shelbyville, and the remainder of the infantry at War- trace, Manchester, and Tullahoma. Their cavalry is over all the coun- tryright, left, and front of us. The roads are now impassable for wagons or artillery, except where macadamized. Our railroad is now open to Nashville. We have about fifteen days supplies on hand here. At Nashville we have already nearly sixty days subsistence. Forage will next de- mand our attention. By throwing in needful stores, to rescue us from want for sixty or ninety days, we can afford to disregard all our lines of commnnication, except from the Nashville base. Our next point will be to take advantage of the fall freshets to throw provisions up the Cumberland and Tennessee, to meet our prospective wants in those directions. Stores np the Cumberland are necessary to the occupation of East Tennessee. Stores up the Tennessee are requisite for opera- tions south of it. A moderate demonstration up the Tennessee would probably dislodge the rebels from this side of the river; but if we could get another blow at them near here, it would be better for us. Mountain roads and natural obstacles consume forces. They have an enormous cavalry force. Van Porn is coming to swell it, by 6,000 or 7,000 more, at least. They are preparing to mount 4,000 of their in- fantry. Thus endeavoring to mobilize their army, they will endeavor to strike our flanks or rear, isolated posts, and control the subsistence and popu- lation of the country. Oar best solution of the problem is to move them up near us, and then fight them. Had not the direction and extension of our right wing been so faulty, there would have been one day to the battle of Stones River, and no organized rebel army left after it. You will be satisfied of this when you see the plan and read the report. I moved with Crittenden and ihe center, because more planning and experience were requisite on that side. I trusted General MeCooks ability as to position, as much as he knew I could his courage and loyalty. It was a mistake. But you will see the whole report. I only allude to it here in connection with the idea of fighting the rebels near our base, if possible. Should we be compelled to fight them in the mountains ot~ Georgia, starvation may answer our purpose as well as pursuit. You, no doubt, think now as always. I believe the most fatal errors of this war have begun in an impatient desire of success, that would not take time to get ready; the next fatal mistake being to be afraid to move when all the means were provided. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General Page 60 430 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (ChAr. XXX~ IVIURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., Major-General HALLECK, February 12, 1863.11.50 p. m. General-in-Chief: There are, in the States of Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois alone, some 30,000 men belonging to this army skulkers, deserters, men absent without leave, men improperly paroled, & c. I desire authority to send officers, both of high and low rank, and, in some cases, even sergeants, to arrest and collect them, and bring them to duty. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Murfreesborough, Tenn., February 12, 186312 p. m. Hon. E. M. STAT~TON: The Acting Paymaster-General is trying to take away Major Lamed from his necessary duties here. I have no hesitation in saying that it is time the public service ceased to snffer.from such whimsical or worse management. There is a screw loose somewhere. Will forward an official statement of more length. My army ought to be paid off while the roads are bad, and I want Major Lamed here with all his force. Please order the Acting Paymaster-General not to interfere with this necessary work. W. S. IROSECRANS, Jllajor- General. MTJRFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 12, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: The river is safe from cavalry, and prob ~bly will be for twenty days. The occupation of Franklin, with the late repulse of Forrest, Wheeler, and others, will keep them away from the river for some days. The land route is good for patrols, but animals coming thus usually get insufficiently fed, and arrive much jaded, and unfit for immediate serv- ice. Send by river, if possible. W. S. LIOSECRANS, Major- General. MUEFREESBOROUGH, February 12, 1863. General A. McD. MUCOOK, (ommanding Twentieth Army Corps: General Davis, I suppose, will start from Franklin to-day, coming by way of Eagleville. I send you the following for what it is worth: Mr. Williamson, residing 14 miles on Eagleville pike, vouched for by Mr. Spence, reports 4,000 cavalry and three pieces of artillery, lie re- ceived the information from Southern soldiers yesterday evening. By order of Major-General Rosecrabs: C. R. THOMPSON, Aide-de-Camp Page 61 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 61. MEMPHIS, TENN., February 12, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough: General Dodge telegraphs, of date 11th: My cavalry met Van Dorns advance at Burleson, Franklin County, Alabama. He will probably cross at Eastport. S. A. IIURLBUT, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, February 12, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO Or. WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: It is reported that two companies of Colonel [John E.] Whitings regiment, at Shawneetown, Ill., are in a state of mutiny. You will immediately take measures to suppress any sucli mutiny, and to have this regiment sent into the field; and also all others not absolutely re quired in Illinois. ~. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. FEBRUARY 12, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: The regular brigade is so reduced in numbers since the battle that it is very desirable all detached companies should rejoin their regiments. Please order Company II, Nineteenth Infantry, Captain Thompson, now on duty in Cincinnati, to accompany the companies of the Eighteenth, at Columbus, under orders for this department. W. S. ROSECRANS Major- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 11. Cincinnati, Ohio, February 12, 1863. By direction of the War Department, Brigadier-General Ellet is authorized to recruit for his fleet from the convalescents in this depart- ment. Officers empowered by General Ellet to enlist convalescents under this authority will submit to these headquarters full and complete lists of the convalescents recruited by them, giving the company and regiment of each recruit, with a view to their being discharged from their present service. Similar lists will be furnished by recruiting officers to the officers commanding the posts where recruits are obtained. By command of Major-General Wright: C. W. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 13, 18633.10 p. m. Maj. Gen. ll. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The following telegram just received from Brig. Gen. G. M. Dodge: ConrNTn, [February 12, 1863.] My cavalry came up with Van Doras advance, 12 miles south of Burleson, Franklin County, Alabama, on Russeliville and Cotton-Gin road. Took several prisoners. Va Page 62 62 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [Cn~Ar. XXXV. Dorn has with him four brigades of mounted men, with twelve pieces of artillery. His brigades are commanded by Jackson, Armstrong, MeCulloch, and Whitfield. His stock is not in very good order, and it is hard to determine where they are going; most of the prisoners say to Bragg, while others say to the Valley, to recruit. I have destroyed the bridges in his front, which will retard him. What little cavalry I have are in the mountains in Alabama, and will do all the mischief they can. A gunboat just now at Florence would worry them. Roddey, with all the mounted robbers in the country, has crossed the Tennessee, and is working north, within reach of that river. The officer taken says Van Dorn is not going to Bragg, but is to operate sep- arately. They have their train with them. Do your scouts ever go to Waynesbor- ough? I suspect that to be a point of rendezvous. I have scouts at Florence and Decatur, who will report to you or me, as the case may require. The above statements are doubtless true. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 13, 18635 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: I have received no reply to my dispatch of February 3, concerning the payment of my command to December 31. I think I can make a statement which will induce you to promise the desired funds when needed. . My chief paymaster made an estimate for this payment, based upon the number of regiments and their average strength. There is enough money there for the purpose. Seventeen hundred thousand dollars will make the Nashville and Gallatin payment, and finish my entire command. Can I depend upon receiving that amoun43 within three weeks ~i XV. S. ROSEOBAKS, Itfajor.General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Mu~.freesborough, February 13, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, Commander.in-Ghief: GENERAL: Your note of the 3d instant is just received. Accept my thanks for all your efforts in behalf of this army. I doubt not I have had a full proportion of the good arms, but you must not think my tele- grams were designed to complain of any partiality toward others, nor on account of any great consequence which I attached to my own command. On the eontrary, the purpose was to state, first, that the control of the country required additional cavalry force; second, that we could double. our force, without increasing our numbers, by giving all first-class arms; third, that such increase would be very economical as well as expedient, and, therefore, worthy of extra exertions. If one regiment can be made equal to two by revolving rifles, no other one thing is so worthy of atten- tion as this, by which you increase the power and effectiveness of your armies, without adding to their members, by a small permanent outlay. I urge it not merely to induce distribution according to our immediate emergency, but to induce the Government, or at least the Commander- in-Chief, to do all in his power to adopt the principle of thus providing for the future. Rest assured I shall not complain of your administra- tion toward me until I have something more than I have had up to this time. But when I urgently urge anything, please be assured it is not personal ambition, nor private interest, but conviction of th Page 63 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 63 public interests being involved which induces me to do it. I will write you or telegraph you more frequently in future, unless prevented by absolute necessity. W. S. BOSECIRAKS, Major- General. MEMPHIS, February 13, 1863. General IROSECRANS: Fan Born has left Tupelo with twelve pieces of artillery and four brigades of cavalry, commanded by Jackson, MeCulloch, Whitfield, and Armstrong. He is moving in the direction of Florence. iRoddey has just joined him with all his force, and Fan Borns force numbers in all at least 10,000 men. There is little doubt his intention is to operate on your land, and river communications. A gunboat would stop him at Florence. C. S. HAMILTON, Major. General. CoRINTH, February 13, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Fan Born, with four brigades of mounted men, commanded by Jack- son, McCulloch, Whitfield, and Armstrong, with twelve pieces and heavy train, is moving toward Florence. He will be detained by bridges in front burned by our cavalry. I have requested a gunboat to be pushed to Florence. Our cavalry still hangs on their march in North Alabama. S. A. HUELBUT, Major. General. MURFREESBOROUGH, February 13, 1863. Capt. A. M. PENNOCK, Cairo: Please send two gunboats up the Tennessee, as far as possible, to clean out everything, at least as far as Florence. Fan Born, with a cavalry force, will probably try to cross at Eastport or Florence. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General. NASHVILLE, February 13, 1863. General ROSECRANS: General Gilbert reached Franklin yesterday, and found a small force of rebel cavalry, which keeps out of range, and watches him. A large force reported at Spring Hill. He asks for cavalry, and I have only the Ninth Pennsylvania, which will not be in condition to subsist itself until its wagons arrive. I can get no teams here. The Sixth Kentucky is arriving; the Seventh and Twelfth expected; so that we will soon have cavalry enough, but it may be two weeks before it is ready for the field. General Smith has arrived. A. BAIRD, Brigadier. General Page 64 64 ky., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. LOUISVILLE, February 13, 1863. Major-General. ROSECRANS: Scout telegraphed from Columbia., Ky., that rebels have left Rowena, on the Cuimberland, and are at Albany and on Wolf River. Georgia regiment at Albany and others on Wolf River, all under command of Colonel Tucker, of Tennessee; about 900 of them. Morgan is farther south, in direction of Sparta. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- (leneral. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, OFFICE OF CHIEF OF POLICE, Nashville, Teun., February 13, 1863. Major.General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough: Major Crenshaw, of Breckinridges staff; says Confederates are re- treating from Shelbyville to Shelimound, 3 miles beyond the Tennessee River, at which point they expect to make a stand. A large Cavalry force is picketing the Shelbyville pike some distance this side of Slid. byville. Mrs. Alcon brought this information to.day WM. TRUESDAIL, Chief of Police. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, February 13, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, liiiurfreesborough, Tenn.: A division of troops, said to be Stonewall Jacksons, passed over the Virginia and East Tennessee road last week, to join Bragg. General Gillmore estimates their strength, from report of his scout, at from 4,000 to 5,000. East Tennessee reports are that Braggs strength is about 40,000, including conscripts, all badly clothed and sickly. Conscript portion disaffected and wont fight. Gillmore thinks this report pretty reliable. Repairs on bridges in East Tennessee pretty well advanced. Yours, sincerely, H. G. WRIGHT Major-General, Commanding. - LOUISVILLE, Ky., February 13, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: Dr. [John F.] Head and Dr. [Middleton] Goldsmith, weeks ago, gave it as their professional opinion that there were no houses in the city adapted to hospital purposes except those now used for hospital. Pri. vate houses will not accommodate more than from 20 to 30, and it would require eighty to one hundred houses to accommodate the 2,500. Mul- tiply the houses, and there are not surgeons to attend them. Surgeon Speer, Seventh Pennsylvania Cavalry, cannot leave, as there is not a surgeon to relieve him, and he is totally unfit for field duty. We have several thousand of General Rosecrans sick, and only five or six of his surgeons. Can Dr. [James G.1 Hatchitt, surgeon of volunteers, at Perryville, be ordered here? J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General Page 65 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 65 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTJ~EENT OF THE TENNESSEE, Lake Providence, La., February 13, 1863. Maj. Gen. STEPHEN A. HURLEUT, Commanding Sixteenth Army Corps, Memphis, Tenn.: GENERAL: You will please revoke the order of General Hamilton to General Asboth, sending the Missouri troops from the District of Co- lumbus back to the Department of the Missouri. The request of General Asboth to have the garrisons of Forts Henry and iDonelson relieved, is impracticable at this time. - Upon reqnest, no doubt, the commanders of any of the gunboats in your command would co-operate in any expedition you may seem dis- posed to make np the Obion. The general commanding will request Admiral Porter to give the necessary instructions to his officers. When troops are reqnired from the District of Columbus, you will order forward the Illinois regiments. Inclosed find dispatches from General Asboth, to which this is an answer. By order of Major-General Grant: JNO. A. RAWLINS, As8istant Adjutant-General. [Inclosure No. 1.] COLUMBUS, February 9, 1863. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Department of the Tennessee: The efficient battalion Fifteenth Regulars and three companies of the Tenth Missouri Cavalry were ordered from here, and Smiths battery from Paducah, to Memphis, with Forts Henry and Donelson. Two thousand troops were transferred to the Department of the Cumber- land. General Curtis claims back all the Missouri troops now in my district, and I was ordered by General Hamilton to have them returned. On the other hand, it is reported officially that, besides the rebel bands on both sides the Obion River, Colonel [H. V.] Richardson, with 27000 Confederate troops, has reached Huntingdon. Under these circum- stances, I would respectfully request that the garrisons of Forts Henry and Donelson be relieved by troops from the Department of the Cum.- berland, and restored for duty in this district. ASBOTH. [Inclosure No. 2.] COLUMBUS, February 9, 1863. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, Department of the Tennessee: General Hamilton directed me, on the 3d instant, to send the Third Minnesota to Memphis, as soon as the regiment should get arms. There are arms at Cairo, but without equipments, and it may take some time till the regiment can be properly armed. The present excitement and political intrigues in the State of Illinois make it advisable to have the Illinois regiments, especially the new ones, as distant from their homes as possible, to prevent desertion. From the One hundred and twenty-eighth Illinois, stationed at Cairo, more than 700 men deserted. I would, therefore, ask permission to send, in place of the Third Minne- ~ota, which is without arms, one of the armed Illinois regiments. ASBOTH, Brigadier-General. 5 R RVOL XXIII, VT I Page 66 66 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. [Inclosuro No. 3.] COLUMBUS, February 9, 1863. Col. JOHN A. IIAWLINS, Assistant Adjutant- General, Department of Tennessee: May I ask instructions whether Department Orders, No. 14, section 4, is again in force, and where I shall send returns and reports, and to whom I shall look for orders ~ ASBOTH. [Inclosure No. 4.] COLUMBUS, February 9, 1863.- [Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS,] Assistant Adjutant-General, Department of Tennessee: Reports from Union City, Fort Pillow, and Island No.10 are concurrent in placing an organized force of about 1,000 rebels, with some artillery, on both sides of the Obion River. under command of Colonels Richard- son and [W. A.] Dawson, constantly making excursions, marauding the conntry, and conscripting for the rebel army. As the Obion River is navigable at present to a point above Dyersburg, I am anxious to enter it with a gunboat, and, in co.operation with the garrisons of Island No. 10, Union City, and Fort Pillow, to break up and capture these lawless bands, this being the only way to penetrate into the heart of the country occupied by these rebels. I would request orders for the co operation of two gunboats. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 14, 18639.30 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: The matter of having paymasters stay with the troops is of vital ne- cessity to the collection of the fines, arrearages, and balances of indebt- edness of officers and men. It is of equal importance to the sick, invalid, and discharged soldiers, who so often cannot get their pay for months, even if at all, for want of correct papers, which would never be the case if the paymasters were with their commands. There is no reason why these majors should be out of the field, while captains in the quarter- masters and commissary departments, with less pay and more labor, are obliged to be so. Please look into this. It is a matter of much moment. W. S. ROSECRANS. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, ]Jlurfreesborough, February 14, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Jhief: GENERAL: Inclosed I send you a copy of department General Orders, No.19, from these headquarters, directing the formation of rolls of honor and organizing light battalions. Therefore, I respectfully ask your assist- ance in procuring for them the best arms, and also permission to have given to the members of the rolls of honor medals or ribbons. The measure is highly approved here, and thought to promise the best re- sult. This, and the system of inspection adopted here, are working great changes in this army for the better. We want now the power o Page 67 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE1 ETC.UNION. 67 life and death in extreme cases, of meeting desertion, & c., in the hands of the dqsartment commanders. This daily requisite defeats all the ends of punishment, making the higher crimes go unpunished. Deser- tions by officers of white liver, feeble constitution, and Butternnt con- nections are not utterly unknown to this command, nor are the attempts to draw away others of unfrequent occurrence. I want power to have these put to their proper punishment. May I ask your attention to the Orders, No. 6, establishing our inspec- tion system l Its fruits are wonderful here. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosure.] GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 19. f Murfreesborough, Teun., February 14, 1863. I. To establish a method of pointing out to this army and the nation those officers and soldiers of this command who shall distinguish them- selves by bravery in battle, by courage, enterprise, and soldierly conduct, and also to promote the efficiency of the service, it is ordered that in every company in this armyinfantry, artillery, and cavalry included there shall be kept a roll of honor, on which shall be entered the names of 5 privates most distinguished for bravery in battle, enterprise, en- durance, soldierly conduct, and skill in the use of arms. The soldiers entitled to this distinction will be selected by the non-commissioned officers and privates in each company, by ballot, approved by the com- pany commander. In every regiment there shall be kept a regimental roll of honor, in which shall be entered the company rolls, and, in addition thereto, the names of 10 corporals and 10 sergeants most distinguished for like good qualities. These non-commissioned officers shall be chosen by the com- missioned officers of regiments, approved by regimental commanders. Regimental rolls shall be announced in regimental orders, and copies forwarded to brigade and department headquarters without delay. In every brigade there shall be kept a brigade roll of honor, on which shall be inscribed the regimental rolls, and, in addition thereto, the names of 4 lieutenants, 4 captains, and 2 field officers below the rank of colonel, most distinguished for gallantry in action, professional knowl- edge, skill, energy, and zeal in the performance of duty. Brigade rolls of honor shall be published in brigade general orders, and copies sent to division and department headquarters. Each army corps shall have a roll of honor, composed of brigade rolls, and, in addition thereto, the names of general, field, and staft~ officers who win especial distinction by noble and heroic conduct. The name of any one on the rolls of honor may be stricken therefrom for misconduct, or for falling below the standard, by regimental, bri- gade, division, or superior commanders, or by sentence of courts-mar- tiaL Vacancies arising from these or other causes shall be immediately filled in the manner already prescribed. Whoever shall receive a medal for distinguished service shall have his name placed on the roll of honor. Officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates may have their names placed upon the rolls of honor by the general commanding, for particu- lar acts of heroism that may come under his observation. II. Each infantry and cavalry brigade shall immediately organize a light battalion, to be formed from the rolls of honor, as follows: Three privates from each company, 1 commissioned officer, 2 sergeants, and 3 corporals from each regiment, and 1 field officer from each brigade, a Page 68 (38 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA: (CHAP. xxxv. commander of the battalion, to be selected according to the method designated in establishing the rolls of honor. The detail from each regi- ment shall constitute a company. This battalion shall be provided with the best rifled arms, revolving arms, if possible, and will be mounted as SOOII as practicable. It shall be always kept full by selections made from brigade, regimental, or company rolls of honor. Officers and soldiers may be dismissed froni the battalion for miscon- duct by its commanding officer, with the approval of the brigade com mander, or by order of a superior commander. The light battalion will be excused from picket duty, and, when not on detached service, will be encamped at brigade headquarters. It must be kept at all times fully armed and equipped, and provided with water-proofs and shelter tents, and also, when required, winter tents, and the necessary transportation. These light battalions will be looked upon as the JUte of the army, and models for their profession, and from them will be expected such deeds of daring and enterprise as will prove them worthy of the distinc- tion conferred upon them, and justify the choice of their companions. By command of Major-General IRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff. CAIRO, ILL., February 14, 1863. Major-General RoSEcRANS, Murfreesborough, flienn.: All the gunboats for protection of Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers, six in number, have left Smithland for Nashville, to convoy transports. Please communicate with Lieutenant-Commander Fitch, who will soon arrive at Nashville, if not there now. He has instructions to co-operate with you to the extent of his ability. A. M. PENNOCK, Fleet Captain and Commandant of Station. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAIND, No. 42. Miurfreesborough, Tenn., Feb. 14, 1863. * * * * * * * XV. In consideration of the fact that Captain Stein, Sixth Kentucky Volunteers, and Lieutenant Cameron, One hundred and tenth Illinois Volunteers, were acting in a subordinate capacity when a portion of the forage train which they accompanied was captured by the enemy on the 1st instant, the general commanding does not deem it essential to dis- cipline to dismiss them from service. He, however, reminds these officers that they have committed a grave error and neglect of duty in not remon- strating with the officers in command against the danger of dividing the train, and warns them against a repetition of the offense. He directs that they be publicly reprimanded at the head of their respective regi- ments for their misconduct; after which they will be relieved from arrest and returned to duty. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General IRosecrans: II. THRALL, 61aptain and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 69 CHAP. XXXV.j CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNIoN. 69 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Gincinnati, Ohio, February 14, 1863. Brig. Gen. JuLIus WHITE Commanding District of Eastern Kentucky, Louisa, Ky.: GENERAL: Yours of the 11th instant, giving information, received by you from Colonel Dils, that the rebels were collecting a force with a view to an attack on his post at Pea~h Orchard, or at Louisa, and stat- ing the steps you have taken to secure the subsistence stores lately sent to Peach Orchard by Colonel Cranor, has been received. Your telegram, giving in brief the same information, was also received, and, in reply, you were authorized to retain one of the infantry regiments recently ordered to this point from your district, till you could ascertain the truth of the report, and become satisfied it was no longer needed. I mnst say, how~ver, that I do not attach the least confidence to the rumor, believing it to be one of the many stories constantly gotten up by the disloyal and timid. It may be true, however, and proper pre- cautions should be taken to meet it. In regard to the troops in the district, I would say that after you left this place I concluded, in view of the necessities elsewhere, that two regiments of infantry and a proportion of cavalry was as much as could properly be assigned to that section, and if those regiments were famil- iar with the country in which they were to operate, they could accom- plish more than the larger force recently stationed there. In this view, and with the concurrence of the Governor of Kentucky, an excellent regiment, raised in the Big Sandy region, was ordered there, and three regiments withdrawn. I believe this force to be enough, as soon as Colonel Dilsregiment is mustered in, and a mustering officer has gone up for that purpose. You will be left with a comparatively small command, and will be relieved and ordered elsewhere in consequence, if you desire it. It would be well for you to remain a short time, however, till you have become somewhat familiar with the district, and have arranged for the proper distribution of the troops. I regret that the low stage of the river prevents the accumulation of supplies higher up the valley. The great object of the troops in that section is to prevent depreda- tions by parties of guerrillas, and to watch the practicable route into Kentucky, passing through or near Piketon and Prestonbnrg. The latter cannot be accomplished by troops stationed in Louisa and vicin- ity; the former may be to some extent, at least, by sending detach- ments of proper strength to scour the country and return. This is practiced constantly in other districts of the State, and Colonel Dils kept his command at Piketon for a considerable time, and only fell back on account of his communications being cut by the enemy, and this through a want of proper understanding between himself and Colonel Cranor, resulting from the former not being mustered into servicedid not acknowledge the control of the latter. The muster-in of the Thirty- ninth will prevent the repetition of such an occurrence. The troops should not be allowed to lie still; they should be kept moving, and I am sure it is practicable to do this with the men you have, and that with results that shall be beneficial to the troops and the country in which they operate. Operations can scarcely be carried on in accord- ance with the regular system of warfare in that section of Kentucky. It must be partisan warfare, like that which the rebels are pursuing in that region; we must meet them with their own tactfrs, and wit Page 70 70 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. the men you have, who know every portion of the ground, we can do it effectually. At the same time the troops must be kept well in hand, to be able to operate on the flank and rear of any force endeavoring to make its way into Kentucky by Pound Gap. The country higher up is said to still possess considerable in the way of subsistence and forage. Certainly it has enough to support the pred- atory rebel bands which constantly roam over it, committing outrages upon the persons of citizens and depredations on their property. The troops in your vicinity, in regard to which you inquire in a former letter, are, first, one West Virginia regiment (the Fifth), at Ceredo, which scouts the valley of the Little Kanawha and up the eastern side of the Big Sandy. Second, the troops, some 6,000 strong, in the valley of the Kanawha, under the immediate command of Brigadier-General Scammon. It would be well to keep in communication with Colonel Zeigler and General Scammon. Third, to the west there are no troops nearer to you than Mount Sterling and Irvine, where there are at the former one battalion and at the latter two battalions of the Four- teenth Kentucky Cavalry. Those at Irvine are not yet fully equipped. This force scouts eastward to West Liberty. In regard to your communication with Catlettsburg, I should say that it may be made secure by sending small detachments to guard your transports or trains, as the enemy cannot get at them in any force with- out your receiving timely warning. Possibly in this opinion I may be in error, but all the information I have regarding the character of the country and the localities of the enemys forces confirms its correctness. In conclusion, I would say that the efficiency of the force in the district must depend mainly on the officer in command, since the operations to be undertaken are of such a character as to preclude any but general instructions. All the details must be left by me to his judgment and discretion, and he must act according to the necessities of the case, ever varying with the movements of the rebels, which cannot generally be provided against by positive instructions from these headquarters. Respectfully, your obedient servant, II. G. WRIGHT, Mayor- General, Commanding. MURFREE5BOROUGII, February 15, 1863. Brig. Gen. A. BAIRD, Nashville: Send the cavalry as proposed. Keep us advised of movements. Let them come up until we can strike a blow that will tell. The general desires to know what you mean by then closing up on the different roads. Such an expression would seem to indicate that you thought they were completely surrounded and shut in. By order of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. NASHVILLE, February 15, 1863. Lient. Col. C. GODDARD: General Gilbert used the expression, Forrest reported only 6 miles off, on the Carter Creek road, and others on the other roads. I under Page 71 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 71 stand them to be roads toward the south. He was not surrounded or shnt in, for his message came through since. I will send orders to Gilbert to intrench. A. BAIRD, Brigadier- General. MURFREESBOROUGII, February 15, 1863. Brig. Gen. A. BAIRD, Nashville: See that General Gilbert is instructed to intrench himself strongly, and that he does not snifer or allow himself to be whipped. When we get them well up there, we will fall on them and cut them up. By order of Major-General Rosecraus: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff. MURFREESBOROUGII, February 15, 1863. Lient. LEROY FITCH, Commanding Gunboats: It is of the utmost importance that you should patrol river with gun- boats, as follows: One or two should make a patrol up the river as high as Carthage. Rebels are building gunboats up that way, to use in oper- ating against us. Two others ought to patrol between Donelson and Nashville. Did you receive my two telegrams l Either I must con- form my views to yours, or there must be concerted action between us, so that all necessary action be taken. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGII, February 15, 1863. Brigadier-General STEEDMAN, Concord Church: (To be forwarded to commanding officer at La Yergne.) Yours of 3d received. There is daily difficulty with our telegraph lines from La Vergue to Nashville. The general commanding directs you to send scouting party through the hills to your left, to see if there are any lurking rebels. There are probably many of Dick McCanns men on visits to their homes, some of whom do this mischief. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff. LA YER~NE, February 15, 1863. F. S. BOND, Aide-dc-Camp: The roads from La Vergue to Jefferson and to Nashville, and all be- tween them, are patrolled. The patrols returning from Stones River late this evening report that the river has risen 8 feet and is not fordable. What do you mean by Lebanon pike I Is it the pike from Lebanon to Nashville, or from this place to Jefferson I When was the rebel forc Page 72 72 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXv. said to cross Stones River, and under whose command ~ In the event they cross, and move on the railroad at some other point, shall I move on them, leaving a section and a regiment here ~l JOHN T. CHOXTON, Colonel, Commanding. MURFnEESBOnOUOII, TENN., February 16, 18633.45 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON: I have as yet no reply to telegrams of 3d and 13th, in regard to money for payment of troops. A reply is desirable~ that, if we can be assured of the require(l amount, payment may be commenced to December 31. You will observe from dispatch of 13th that arrangements have been made to reduce amount reqnired to $1,700,000. W. S. ROSECItANS, ]Jfajor- General, Commanding. Mu~r~EESBoRoUGH, February 16, 1863. Captain PENNOCK, 6~airo: None of the gunboat commanders have yet reported to me either their arrivals or departures, nor given me any idea of what they pro- posed to do or not to do. My command requires the use of these or some boats, and unless something more can be done than I have yet seen, the interest of the country will suffer very greatly. I do not hesitate to say that were it not for the hope of some more effectual co-operation, I should at once purchase common transports, and try to use them to patrol the river above Nashville, at least. Pray do not suppose I venture yet to blame the commanders of the gunboats. I cannot say what may be the preventing circumstances. But the necessities are above stated. W. S. IROSECRAKS, iiiliajor. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, lhillurfreesborough, February 16, 1863. Capt. A. M. PENNOCK, Commanding Station of Cairo: Lieutenant Fitch has gone down the river with the fleet. You can telegraph him at Clarksville or Paducah. W. S. TtOSECIRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBoRoLTGII, February 16, 1863. Lient. LEROY FITCH, Commanding Gunboats, iJATashville: Have received no answer to my dispatch of last night. Will you com- municate with me ~l It - is of importance to the service that the gun. boats visit Carthage immediately and destroy the boats building up Caney Fork, if possible; also that there should be a steady patrol up and down the river from Nashville, for a short time, at least. W. S. IIOSEORANS, Major.General Page 73 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 73 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLA~D, Murfreesborough, February 16, 1863. Lieut. LEROY FITCH, Commanding Fleet, Paducah, Ky.: Your letter received this morning. The arrangement very satisfac- tory. Hope you will be able to carry out directions of Captain Pen- nock for the Tennessee River. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. CORU~TH, February 16, 1863. Van Dorn is crossing at Florence. About 2,000 men and six guns are at Waynesborough, waiting for him. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. CORINTH, February 16, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: We have annoyed Van Dorn, and taken some 50 prisoners from him. He has not got all across the river yet. Some 50 deserters came in yes- terday from Tullahoma. They all say Bragg is going to fall back to Bridgeport. He is crossing an engine to Decatur, to run on the Mem- phis and Charleston Railroad, and gather up the corn in the valley bought by the C. S. Army. If you get knowledge when it gets to run- ning, let me know, and 1 will capture it. Roddey took 1,500 men with him, mostly conscripts. I got about 200 of his command. Van Dorn told one of my wounded men, who was a prisoner, that he could not stay to fight us, as he was ordered to get to Bragg immediately. His actions indicate this. I will co-operate with gunboats. G. N. DODGE. MURFREESBOROUGH, February 16, 1863. Cob W. W. LOWE, Commanding Port Henry: Brigadier-General Dodge, Corinth, telegraphs that Van Dorn, with 2,000 cavalry and six pieces of artillery, is crossing the Tennessee at Florence. Take most prompt measures for strengthening your position by fortifying, & c. Notify Colonel Harding to do the same. W. S. IROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, February 16, 1863. Brigadier-General DODGE, 6orinth, Miss.: Hurlbuts request and my own coincide. Hope you will be able to cut off some of Van Dorns command. Will give you all our newsin your direction. Accept my thanks for your promptness and energy. W. S. ROSECIRANS, Major- General Page 74 74 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXV GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 21. ~ ]Jiliurfreesborough, Tenn., February 16, 1863. I. The following regulations are established for trains in this army: There will be allowed, for headquarters of each division, 7 wagons ~ for mechanics tools and materials at division headquarters, 1 wagon; for headquarters of each brigade, 4 wagons; for mechanics tools and ma- terials at brigade headquarters, 1 wagon; for the field and staff of each infantry regiment, 1 wagon; for the hospital department of each in- fantry regiment, 1 wagon; for each company of infantry, 1 wagon; for each regiment of cavalry, 25 wagons; for each battery of artillery, the same number of wagons that there are guns in the battery. There will be an ammunition train of 25 wagons for each division to be under the control of the division ordnance officer. All transportation in excess of this allowance will be at once reported to the chief quartermaster, and turned over under his direction. II. Each company wagon will be plainly marked on the body with the letter of the company and number of the regiment to which it be- longs, and the company commander will be held responsible for its con- dition, and that the animals are properly cared for. III. Each company wagon will, in addition to the company baggage, carry four days rations for the command, and two boxes of ammunition of caliber suited to its arm. On marches, each wagon will be required to carry three days short forage for its animals. IV. It is made the duty of all inspectors to report any excess of this allowance in any regiment, brigade, or division. V. Quartermasters and other officers responsible for means of trans- portation will hereafter be held strictly accountable for the condition of the wagons and animals under their charge, and that all public animals in their possession are properly and plainly branded. Inspectors are especially directed to report any officer neglecting this class of public property. By command of Major-General iRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of & aff. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ ilD QES. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 44. f Murfreesborough, Tenn., Feb. 16, 1863. * * * * * * * XIII. Brig. Gen. J. J. Reynolds, commanding Fifth Division, Four- teenth Army Corps, is authorized to mount the Second Brigade (Wil- ders) of his command. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Rosecrans: H. THRALL, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. NAsHVILLE, February 17, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: A dispatch just received from Major-Genoral llurlbut, Memphis, say- ing Van Dorn is crossing the Tennessee River at Bainbridge, Florence Page 75 CHAP. XXXV.] 75 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. and Seven-Mile Island. It will take him two days to cross. Am direct- ing Lieutenant Fitch to send two gunboats. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General, Commanding Post. MURFREESBOROUGII, TENN., February 17, 18633 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: The effect of the state of party agitation at the North is to encourage desertion. To counteract this in my army, at least, I deem two things necessary: First, that I have the power of confirming and promptly exe- cuting sentence of death for desertion. Second, that Ihave the authority to send proper details of officers, and, if necessary, men, to arrest and bring back absentees, whether deserters, paroled prisoners, skulkers, convalescents, or stragglers. I have once requested this of the War Department, but have not yet received a reply. I beg your attention to this matter, as one requiring immediate attention. There are 40,000 absentees from tbis army to-day. W. S. HOSECItAKS, Major- General. [FEBRUARY 17 and 19, 1863.For IRosecrans to Joseph E. Johnston, see Series II.] WAsnJN~ToN, D. C., February 18, 1863. Major-General HOSECRANS, ]lfurfreesborough, Tenn.: GENERAL: in your telegram of last evening you ask the power of confirming and promptly executing sentences of death for desertion. You must be aware, general, that no such power can be conferred upon you by the President or Secretary of War. The law is positive that no such sentence shall be executed till approved by the President. The President cannot change this law, and it is his duty, as well as yours and mine, to obey the law. I have advised the repeal of this statute, and there is a bill before Congress for that purpose. It may, or may not, pass. Until repealed, the law must be obeyed. In regard to authorizing you to send officers and armed men into other departments than your own, to look up and arrest deserters, it is believed that such a measure would weaken rather than increase the numbers of your army, besides the risks of conflict between the civil authorities and in- discreet officers sent on that service. The results of sending such par- ties from the Army of the Potomac, to arrest deserters, have proved that the plan is not a good one. The best way to prevent desertion here has been the sending out of patrols on the roads upon which deserters seek to return to their States. There is a bill before Congress to provide means for arresting deserters, now absent from the army, without send- ing out military forces for that purpose. Should it not pass, or should it be found ineffectual, other means must be devised. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 76 76 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, February 18, 1863. Major-General ItOSEORANS, Murfreesborouglt, Teun.: There is only money enough to pay troops to the end of October. To pay yonr army to the end of December would leave others unpaid for September and October. I have written to you in regard to execution of sentence of death and arrest of deserters. II. W. HALLECK, General-in. Chief. MURPREESBOROUcTH, February 18, 1863. General DODGE, Gorinth, Miss.: Fitch, with four gunboats, starts up the Tennessee to-day. If you have any idea infantry will do any good, you had better send them to Hamburg to meet the boats. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 46. ~7 Murfreesborough, Tenn., Feb. 18, 1863. * * * * * * * XV. By virtue of the authority vested in the major-general command- ing by the Secretary of War, Capt. J. Hartley, Fourth Indiana Cavalry, for violating a safeguard and permitting his men to plunder, is dishon- orably dismissed the service of the United States. The crime is by the laws of war punishable with death, and the general commanding regrets that he cannot inflict it. The provisions of General Orders, No. 9, will be strictly carried out in this case. * * * * * * * By command of Major.General iRosecrans: H. THIRALL, ~Japtain and Assistant Adjutant.General. WASHINGTON, D. C., February 19, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS, Miurfreesborough, Tenn.: GENERAL: Your letter of the 13th, with inclosed General Orders, No. 19, have been received and submitted to the Secretary of War. So much of that order as contemplates the organization of light battalions by selection from different regiments cannot be approved, because it is a violation of law. Volunteer troops must be organized in the manner prescribed by Congress. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK General-in. Chief Page 77 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 77 GENERAL ORDERS, ~ 11r QES. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 24. f ]lfurfreesborough, Tenn., February 19, 1863. The following extract from General Orders, No. 19, War Department, February 22, 1862, is published for the information of this army: It is ordered that there shall be inscribed on the colors or guidons of all regiments and batteries in the service of the United States the names of the battles in which they have borne a meritorious part. * * It is expected that troops so clistin- guished will regard their colors as representing the honor of their corps, to be lost only with their lives; and that those who are not yet entitled to snch a distinction will not rest satisfied until they have won it by their discipline and valor. in accordance with this order, the general commanding directs that the name of Stones River be inscribed on the national colors of each regiment and the guidon of each battery that was engaged in the recent battle in front of this city. The general is proud to know that there was not a single regiment or battery which did not, in that memorable conflict, bear a meritorious part. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of staff. GENERAL ORDERS, II No. ~. DQRS. TWENTY-FIRST ARMY CORPS, February 19, 1863. The undersigned hereby assnmes command of this corps. TH J. WOOD, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. MURFREESBOROIJGH, TENN., February 20, 186310.20 p. m. Maj Gen. H. W; HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The increasing list of sick is my reason for covering the men with tents, to shelter them from the cold rains of the winter. As soon as the roads and the season admit of our moving, no one will more rigidly en- force the orders for light baggage and tentage than I, but it is not policy to regard this army as so in the field as to have no tents. At this sea- son, loss by sickness would be more damage than would pay for all the tents we would need for two years. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, February 20, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W HALLECK, Washington, D C.: GENERAL: Captain [John C.] Peterson, acting assistant inspector- general, being obliged to change climate by medical direction, I avail myself of his zeal and intelligence to send you some details of this army, showing the percentage of absentees and the wear and tear of an army in battle. First, I find, from careful examination, that the average per- ~entage of the present aiwi ~d~sent now for the Fourteenth Army Corp Page 78 78 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CItAP. XXXV. is 56.01 per cent., Twentieth Army Corps, 50.16 per cent., and Twenty- first Army Corps, 55.44 per cent. Presuming that each of these corps has fought but one great battle, in which they lost as follows, viz: Four- teenth Army Corps, 18.44 per cent., Twentieth Army Corps, 20.50 per cent., and Twenty-first Army Corps, 24.64 per cent., the average loss for the entire command being 20.03 per cent., we have before the battle the Fourteenth Army Corps had 63.42 per cent. present, the Twentieth Army Corps 64.60 per cent. present, and the Twenty-first Army Corps 66.93 per cent present. Hence, before the battle, we have to pay 100 men for the above present, and we now have the preceding percentage for each 100 on the pay-roll. Although these are better results than I have expected, they are much worse than they ought to be. I am now endeavoring to bring the absentees to some rule, and reduce their numbers. The inspection system detects the illegal absentees, but it requires, in addition, the paymasters with the corps to know who ought not to be paid. Captain Peterson comes to show what means we use to detect absentees and what, even then, are our results. He is also charged to carry on a form of returns, which, if adopted in the Adjutant-Generals Office and throughout the army, will force the various commanders to give such data in their returns as will afford means of knowing the true condition and strength of our forces, which, with the present forms in use, is not the case. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General, Commanding Department. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, flienn., February 20, 1863. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General, U. S.. Army: GENERAL: I find, from a careful examination of the reports of troops present for duty, with the reports of sick in hospital and on detached service, and of inspectors, some results of such moment to the service that I have deemed it a matter of sufficient importance to send Captain Peterson, Fifteenth Infantry, adjutant and inspector general, to you to explain them. I have desired him also to explain the workings of our inspection system, in regard to detecting illegal absences, and the proper publication and enforcing orders. Captain Peterson will show in detail the difference between the paper and real effective force. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major. General. [Tuelosure.] STATEMENT OF FORCE. Infantry and Artillery. Fourteenth Army Corps 27,725 Twentieth Army Corps 13,031 Twenty-first Army Corps 13,061 Cavalry not included in above 4,295 Total troops at the front -- --. 58,11 Page 79 79 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. Detached troops: Nashville 7,495 Gallatin . - 3,550 Bowling Green 1,840 Clarksville. - 1,674 Total 14,559 Grand total present 72,671 Strength, present and absent 133,305 Discount 60,634 Add detached troops 14,559 Number that cannot be led against the enemy 75,193 NOTES FOR GENERAL THOMAS. Per centum. Percentage of men present: For the Fourteenth Army Corps (Major-Goneral Thomas) 56.01 For the Twentieth Army Corps (Major-General MeCook) 50. 16 For the Twenty-first Army Corps (Major-General Critteuden) -- - .. 50.44 At the battle of Stones River they lost Fourteenth Army Corps - - . . - - 18.44 Twentieth Army Corps. - 20.50 Twenty-first Army Corps 24.64 The average for the entire command being 20.03 per centum. The number present before the battle was Fourteenth Army Corps 63.42 Twentieth Army Corps 64.60 Twenty-first Army Corps 66.93 LOUISVILLE, Ky., February 20, 1863. Col. A. STAGER: Rebels in considerable force at Somerset, Ky., supposed to be under Morgan, advancing into interior of Kentucky. General Rosecrans is preparing to change base to Tennessee. SAM. BRUCH. MUEFREESBOROUGH, February 20, 1863. Brig. Gen. A. BAIRD, Nashville: Order Crooks brigade to get ready at once to make an expedition up Cumberland on transports, convoyed by two gunboats, to prevent Morgan from crossing. The following is sent for your information, to be communicated to General Crook: LOUISVILLE, February 20, 1863. Colonel Runkle, at Danville, telegraphs rebels crossed Cumberland and drove Colo- nel Morrison from Somerset, who is falling back toward Stanford. Morgan will fol- low soon or cross at the passes on the mountains farther east. C~n gunboats and two transports, with 500 men, be sent up to Burkesville and above? If they will, cross Wolford with this force and whip them. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General Page 80 80 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXY. General Crook is to take post at Carthage, which will be his depot, and from whence he can make expeditions and scour that country. He can take pack mules, that he may be able to move light. He can have 300, if he requires them. Transports are ready to take him from Nash- ville. General Crook will probably get more definite instructions by mail; much will, however, be left to his discretion. By order, of General IRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. MURFREESBoROUGH, February 20, 1863. Brigadier.General BOYLE, Louisville: We have sent two gunboats up the Cumberland, to go beyond Car- thage and up Caney [Fork.] We have also a combined cavalry and infantry expedition operating in that direction from here. Morgan may be in that direction. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. LOUISVILLE, February 21, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: Eight hundred rebels crossed Cumberland; passed through Somer. set, in the direction of Crab Orchard. Two hundred more crossed at Daughertys Ferry, below Mill Springs. Following after these were 1,000, with two pieces of artillery, at Mon- ticello, on the 19th. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. (Same to iRosecrans.) GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 10. ) Murfreesborough, February 21, 1863. I. The transportation of cotton in Government wagons, or its seizure, under any circumstances, as a military necessity or otherwise, is strictly prohibited, in the Fourteenth Army Corps, from this date. Cotton found secreted may be reported, through the proper channels, to depart- ment headquarters; but under no circumstances will it be removed, used, or transported in Government wagons, without the consent of the department or corps commander. Commanding officers of divisions, regiments, and detached corps will see that this order is strictly complied with, and will promptly arrest any officer or private found violating this order in any particular. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Thomas: GEO. E. FLYNT Assistant Adjutant.General and Chief of Staff Page 81 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 81 ORDERS.] IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMI3ERLAND, Murfreesborough, Teun.., February 21, 1863. Surg. 0-. Penn, U. S. Army, having reported, in accordance with orders from the Secretary of War, is announced as medical director of this department, to relieve Surg. Eben Swift, U. S. Army, who will comply with such orders as he may have received from the War De- partment. Surg. A. II. Thurston, U. S. Yolunteers, is announced as assistant medical director of the department. Surg. Robert Fletcher, First Ohio Volunteer Infantry, is assigned to duty as medical purveyor for this department, and will be stationed at Nashville. By command of Major-General iRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of ~taffi MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 22, 18638.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: Pardqn my having failed to telegraph you for the last few days. No material change since my last. RebelsMcCown, Cheatham, and Withersat or near Shelbyville, behind Duck River. A brigade, at least, at Wartrace; Breckinridge at Manchester. Van Dorns advance at least the force under IRoddeyhas passed north of Duck River. Van Dorn was crossing at Florence a week ago Friday. Morgan has sent some men into Kentuckya party to steal horses. Reported that Bragg wants to mount 15,000 infantry with horses stolen from Kentucky. Have sent four gunboats up the Tennessee after Van Dorns boa{s, to reconnoiter. Have sent engineer to see about fortifying at Fort Don. elson, beyond reach of coup de main. Fortification at Nashville being strengthened. At this place nearly ready to fight a great army or hold as a secondary depot with a brigade. Stores now coming up by rail. Roads nearly impassable. Cumberland above water-mark on pier at Nashville, and rising. Crooks brigade goes up to attend to matters and things at and above Carthage, where rebel hordes of cavalry are con- scripting and carrying off provisions. Some indications of rebels re- tiring from line of Duck River toward Tullahoma. Our cavalry horses and arms not yet arrived. We forage chiefly off the country, but send 12 or 14 miles. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, February 22, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: I think that rebel force that has entered Kentucky is the advance of Morgans force, on a horse-stealing expedition. Let your troops resist their advance as strongly as possible, and fight them wherever they meet them. W. S. ROSECRANS, - Major-Gener~l9 6 U RYOL XXIII, PT I Page 82 82 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. MURFREESBORoUGH, Fcbruary 22, 1863. Brigadier-General CROOK, Nashville, Teun.: Proceed up the river, and you will meet the two gunboats already there. Will give gunboat instructions through you. Think it would be expedient to go to Celina, and, taking ample provisions, operate by way of Livingston, Jamestown, Fentress County, and Monticello to Normans Landing. You will have to watch the river that it does not get too low, and use your best judgment as to your course. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General. MURPREESBOROUGH, February 22, 1863. & nior Officer of Gunboat, (Care of General Crook:) Direct the operations of your two gunboats so as to protect and as- sist General Crook in his expedition up the Cumberland River. It is desirable that your movements be governed by his plans. W. S. IROSECRANS, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 27. f Murfreesborough, Teun., February 22, 1863. Col. J. C. McKibbin, additional aide-de-camp, having reported, in accordance with the orders of the General-in-Chief, is assigned to duty as acting assistant inspector-general of the Army of the Cumberland. Capt. Joe C. ilill is announced as volunteer aide-de-camp, and will be respected accordingly. By command of Major-General iRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of ~3taff. MUEFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 23, 18635 p. m. Major-General HALLECK: Your plan for uniting the two engineer corps meets my hearty con- currence. I urged the matter on General Totten two years ago. It will be a public benefit, and would not do much injustice to any one. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. STANFORD, February 23, 1863. Brigadier-General BoYLE: The rebels have entered the State by Somerset. They are said to be 2,500 strong, and going on from Mount Vernon to Richmond. The troops under Colonel Runkle, some 2,000, fell back this morning from Crab Orchard to this place, at 1 oclock, and left at daylight, by Lan- caster, for Richmond. Full particulars by letter. This I have from Colonel Runkles mouth. The rebels are in command of [R. S.] Cluke and [R. M.] Gano. V. H. S Page 83 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 83 HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WESTERN KENTUCKY, Louisville, February 23, 1863. Reliable information, just received, says Morgan crossed the Cumber- land Thursday night between Hartsville and Carthage; supposed to be going to llopkinsville. Look out for him, and fight him at all hazards. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. (Send this to Colonel Hobson, Munfordville; Col. C. Maxwell, Bus- seliville; Brigadier-General Manson, Bowling Green, and Col. S. D. Bruce, Clarksville.) MURFREESBOROUGH, February 23, 1863. Brigadier-General CROOK, Nashville: Your dispatch received. The report as to Morgans forces must cer- tainly be incorrect. General Stanley, with a force of cavalry, returned from beyond Liberty night before last, and left nothing there. There is also an expedition of 1,000 picked men in that neighborhood. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. CAIRO, ILL., February 23, 186311 p. m. STEPHEN A. HURLEUT, Major- General, Commanding Memphis, Tenn.: Have heard nothing. Gunboats have gone up Tennessee River. A. M. PENNOCK, Fleet Gaptain and Commandant of ktation. MURFERESBOROUGH, TENN., February 24, 186312.40 p. m. His Excellency the PRESIDENT: Perceiving the Senate wishes you to select from your list of nominees, and having no friends to reward, enemies to l)unish, or axes to grind, I beg permission, in the interest of the service and the name of the Army of the Cumberland, to ask that the following brigadier-generals: D. S. Stanley, James S. Negley, P. H. Sheridan, Jeff. C. Davis, John M. Palmer, Thomas J. Wood, and H. P. Van Cleve, be promoted to major- generals; and that Cols. John Beatty, Thirtieth Ohio; Samuel Beatty, Nineteenth Ohio; W. P. Carlin, Thirty-eighth Illinois; William B. Hazen, Forty-first Ohio; George D. Wagner, Fifteenth Indiana; W. H. Gibson, Forty-ninth Ohio; and W. Grose, Thirty-sixth Indiana, be ap- pointed brigadiers. They have earned promotion by hard fighting and hard service as brigade commanders. They will all be obliged to serve a7s such. ~ ran\ anhii~ ~ta?fr, ~nhs~m& w their regiments (always among the best) demands that their absence from the regiments should be supplied by promoting their lieutenant- colonels to colonels and giving them majors. Colonel Starkweather ought also to be made a brigadier. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General Page 84 84 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. LCnA~. XXXV. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF TILE CUMBERLkND, No. 31. f ]Jfurfreesborough., lenin., February 24, 1863. L No adequate punishment has been heretofore inflicted upon con. viction of the military offense of desertion. This calls for a deter. mined effort on the part of the commanding general for its suppression. He therefore wishes it to be distinctly understood, by the officers and soldiers of this department, that he expects a rigid adherence, upon the part of courts-martial, to the letter of the law; that its extreme penalty will be enforced in every case of desertion, as provided by the following Article of War: XX. All officers and soldiers who have received pay, or have been duly enlistedin the service of the United States, and shall be convicted of having deserted the same, shall suffer death, or suchother punishment as, by a sentence of a conrt-martial, shall be inflicted. II. The general commanding will arrange and announce a system by which a limited number of annual furloughs will be granted in each company, in rotation, to those non-commissioned ~fflcers and privates who, by meritorious conduct and soldierly bearing, deserve this special favor. Company and regimental commanders are charged to strictly examine every application for leave, and recommend none but those worthy of this privilege. * * * * * * By command of Major-General IRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 52. f Murfreesborough, lenn., Feb. 24, 1863. * * * * * * * XX. All officers and soldiers belonging to the Army of the Camber- land are ordered to report forthwith to Brig. Gen. M. S. ilascall at In- dianapolis, md. Those who are absent by authority will report to him by letter, stating the authority on which they are al~sent, their duties, address, and length of time they have already been absent. Those ab- sent without proper authority will immediately report to him in person and obey his orders, or be considered deserters, and subject to arrest and trial as such. This order is intended to apply to all officers of whatever rank belonging to this army, now absent from their duties in the field. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Bosecrans: II. THRALL, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. MIJRFREESBOROUGII, TENN., February 25, 1863midnight. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Evening dispatches announce the passage of conscription billthe greatest measure siuce the foundation of the ~overnwent. P1eas~ le Page 85 Onir. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 85 me know as soon as it is approved by the President. This will increase the power of this army 50 per cent. in sixty days. No special news. Rivers high and rising. Floods will be great. Rebels will probably stand a while at Tullahoma. Part of Polks corps has probably moved from Shelbyville there within a day or two. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General, Commanding. GALLATIN, February 25, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff: Learning from reliable sources that Morgan had a large number of boats on Caney Fork River, and would attempt to cross the river below Carthage, to invade Kentucky, I have determined to take up 1,500 men and cooperate with the gunboats and the troops sent with them. Morgans whole force amounts to near 5,000 mounted men. They are all within a few miles of Liberty. Wolford has been sent for, but can- not get here under two or three days. As he is not here, I go there with 1,500 infantry. Answer. Yours, & c., W. T. WARD, Brigadier- General. GALLATIN, February 25, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel GODDARD: I had received no advice in relation to the boats or troops going to support them. I was telegraphed one week ago that two gunboats would go up the river to Carthage, and told to notify Wolford of that fact. Wolford was in Kentucky, and I so telegraphed the department. When I learned from my men on the river that the boats were coming up, I thought it my duty to support, at least so far as 1,000 or 1,200 cavalry could, but, before doing so, I thought it my duty to telegraph you and get a response, which I have done, and shall conduct myself accordingly. My troops are ordered back to camp. If the boats and transports suf%r, I am not to blame, for you may be well satisfied Mor- gan, with about 5,000 men, are in the ieighborhood of Liberty, intend- ing to try to cross on boats built on Caney Fork, and to invade my State. I am not easily led to believe any story unfounded. I think I am well skilled in deciding on well or ill founded rumors. I am here to perform any duty ordered by you. Yours, & c., W. T. WARD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. LOUISVILLE, February 25, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Rebels, about 700 strong, got to Winchester, Ky. Are passing out through mountains. Your army will be flanked on left, and Kentucky invaded. What is impossible for Federal troops seems practicable for rebels. You may rely on it. Your whole army will have to return t Page 86 86 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. Kentucky to defend the border, if something is not done soon. The in- vasion will be from East Tennessee and Virginia. Rebels can cross Sahara, if necessary. You may note what ii tell you. Rebels destroyed steamer Hattie Gilmore on Green River. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. LA YERGNE, February 25, 1863. Major FLYNT, Chief of Staff, Fourteenth Army Corps: The cavalry who pursued the party who tore up the track near Stew- arts Creek has returned. They came in sight of the rear guard of the rebels as they crossed Stones River. They numbered about 100. A portion of them crossed at Wades Ford, on the West Fork, and the others at Eastmans Ford, on the East Fork. The captain commanding the cavalry did not deem it prudent to cross the river with the force he had. JOHN M. HARLAN, Colonel, Commanding Post. LA VERGNE, February 25, 1863. Maj. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of Staff: Colonel Carroll advises me that just before arrival of train this morn- ing a portion of the track was torn up, about three-quarters of a mile from his vedettes. The track was relaid. The cavalry reserve at Stewarts Creek went up, and learned that about 100 Qavalry had just been there. A cavalry force has gone in pursuit of them. The traiii was delayed by the tearing up of the track. Colonel Carroll thinks it was Hamiltons and Buchanans force. They are believed to rendezvous in the cedars, across ~ River, about 8 miles from Carroll, and are supposed to be from 300 to 500 strong. JOHN M. HARLAN, Colonel, Commanding Post. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Col. IBENJA~HN ~. RUNKLE, Lexington, Ky., February 25, 1863. Commanding Second Brigade: Your dispatch of to-day, from Mount Sterling, was received at 9 p. m. If you are sure the enemy is moving toward the Kentucky River, follow him up, but spare your horses. I have ordered Lieutenant-Colonel Miner, at Richmond, to destroy the ferries and oppose his crossing. In your dispatch you omitted to state where the force with which you left IDan- ville is distributed, and all I know about it I have derived from citizens. Send back messenger at once, giving the strength of the force with you, and what you know of those you left behind, with the orders you gave them. Colonel Gilbert will probably have enough to do to attend to the forces reported to be advancing from Burkesville. The object of your following the enemy toward the river is to frustrate his attempt to cross and to disperse him. I do not want you to follow him, should he retreat toward Virginia, as your command will probably be required for other work very soon. Report to me twice a day by hired couriers Page 87 CuAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 87 In the mean time keep your command well together, and move by slow marches on Nicholasville, whenever in your judgment nothing more is to be gained by pursuit, bearing in mind that your command may be requfred very soon in the direction of iDanville. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GJLLMORE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CLAYS FERRY, February 25, 1863. General GILLMORE: Rebels crossed here and at Boonesborough last night. My brigade is crossing here and at Boonesborough. We will make 40 miles to-night, and run them out. I think there are more behind them. I send you 3 prisonersF. H. Smith, L. C. Harris (said to be a brother of John [H.] Morgan), and William Hibbs, all of Clukes Kentucky regiment. My men and horses ar6 in good condition. Made 45 miles yesterday. I will be in Mount Sterling or Paris at daylight. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, BEN. P. IRUNKLE, Colonel, Commanding Regiment. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., February 25, 1863. Lient. Col. JOHN A. RAWLINS, Assistant Adjutant- General: SIR: I inclose you the following: * General Grant must judge of the necessities of the case by combining it with his information. I have no doubt that a considerable move- ment east is going on. I question whether it means abandonment of Vicksburg, except by their main force. It would be high strategy to draw our army so far down, and then sweep over their inland lines to attack Rosecrans, and the movement of Van Dorn intimates something of the kind. The Confederate authorities work for successful blows in war, and are not respecters of persoiis or places. They would undoubt- edly abandon Vicksbnrg, if thereby they should conquer and crush Rosecrans. I deem this of consequence enough to send by special messenger. Your obedient servant, S. A. HURLBUT, - Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., Col. J. C. KELTON, February 26, 186312.30 a. m. Assistant Adjutant- General: Major Lamed just received a telegram ordering him to Louisville. This will be of infinite detriment to the service, and may prevent the See Hamilton8 report of Cornyns attack on Tuscumbia, February 22, Part I, p. 63 Page 88 88 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIIAr. XXXV. movement of this army when ready, because his paymasters are inex- perienced, and cases of refusal to pay arising therefrom are so frequent that, without his presence, payments would be very greatly obstructed; besides, nearly half his corps are sick. The only paymaster he could leave in charge is among the sick. I have ordered the major not to leave until the orders of the General-in-Chief on the subject can be known. If the general could only have this paymaster business regu- lated more in accordance with the interests of the service, it would be a great thing. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, February 26, 1863. Major-General ROSECRAKS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: I left Lexington last night. All quiet in that vicinity, amounted force of about 1,500 men being on theheels of the rebels at Mount Sterling, their force not exceeding 700. Have just received dispatch from Gill- more that rebels are advancing in force on Richmond road. Dont credit the report fully, but there may be something in it. Shall make the best disposition possible of my small force, which may be sufficient; but if it is not, you must supply any troops you can spare. Will telegraph you as soon as further information is received. II. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. MURPREESEOROUGH, February 26, 1863. (Received February 2712.05 a. in.) Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: Your dispatch received. Boyle telegraphs raid advances from Big Hill toward Richmond. Crook is up the Cumberland. Morgans force cannot be very large. Your troops must look out for the principal places, and fight them. They come to steal horses. W. S. ROSECRAKS, ]Jlajor- General, Commanding. LEXINGTON, Ky., February 26, 1863. Major.General WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: The enemy are advancing in force toward the Kentucky River, through Richmoiuid, said to be commanded by Breckinridge and Pegram Colonel Miner has fallen back to the Kentucky River, toward Nicholas- yule. Firing was heard on the Taits Creek road, south of the river, this morning. Enemy reported to be advancing through Mount Vernon, to intercept Miner, and I have ordered Colonel Gilbert to get ready to fall back to Hickman Bridge with his sick and stores. Can you send me any more men? The five companies you have sent to Cynthiana I have ordered here, and have also ordered the balance at Frankfort here. Page 89 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 89 have sent a courier to Colonel Runkle to come back toward Lexington, and send me the horses Captain Webster has, said to be 300, at least. I am, respectfully, yours, [Q. A. GJLLMORE.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, February 26, 1863. Brigadier-General GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: Make the Kentucky IRiver your line. If the boats have been destroyed, as they should be, enemy cant cross in face of your force. This will give us time. If Cluke is broken up, as I suppose, our troops on rail- road may be withdrawn, except small forces at block-houses. I will send you everything I have, and will telegraph you again shortly. Keep me advised of any further information you may receive. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., February 26, 1863. Col. BENJAMIN P. RUNKLE, Between Mount Sterling and Irvine: The enemy are advancing in force, on the road through Richmond, toward this place. You should bring your force in this direction as fast as possible, so that we can concentrate in his front. Report to me frequently. Lose no time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. BOWLING GREEN, February 26, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT: A ~)arty of some 50 rebels destroyed a freight train at Woodburn, 12 miles below here, to-day at about 1 p. in.; then turned the locomotive and one car loose in the direction of Kashville. It passed Frankfort at full speed. Cavalry and infantry start at once in search of the rebels. The IN ashville and Russellville train barely escaped, and is detained here. G. GRANGER. MURPREESEOROUGH, TENN., February 27, 18637 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I have no disposition to transcend my authority over the paymaster, but I must respectfully represent to you that I understand the way things are working here. I emphatically declare that the orders of the Paymaster-General to Major Lamed, to go to Louisville, will work an injury, and possibly a great one, to the service here, and, for thes Page 90 90 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA.9 AND SW. VA. [CUAP. XXXV. reasons, respectfully ask you to interfere to prevent that evil. I under- stand things here, and know what delays of payment mean, and how they are to work. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. [FEBRUARY 27, 1863For Stanton to iRosecrans, iii reference to con- fiscation of property, & c., and Rosecrans reply, of March 7, see Series III.] MURFREESBoRoUGH, TENN., February 27, 18637 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: - Under permission to mount infantry, do you not think we could mount these picked men, organized into light battalions ~ It is for the interest of the service to mount picked men, and it adds nothing to their rank or pay. May I beg you to look into the legality of the mat- ter yourself 0? Observe, it does not detach them permanently from their regiments. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., February 27, 186311.45 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Have nothing new to-day. The excessive rain of yesterday and day before flooded the country. One of our railroad bridges was destroyed, and two others slightly damaged. General Dodges cavalry has cap- tured Tuscur~bia, with 200 prisoners and a quantity of stores, and are in pursuit of their scattered forces. It is said by a shrewd man, who left Shelbyville yesterday, that the rebel troops were ordered to cook four days rations. Our defensive works here are well advanced. A brigade will be able to cover the depots and bridges against a division or two. Forage represented as being scarce about Shelbyville. They say they foraged for 50 miles, and provisions are so scarce that bacon is $50 per hundred. W. S. BOSECIIANS. MURFREESBOROUcfII, TENN., February 27, 186311.45 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: May I ask you to do the service and this army the favor of recon- sideiing your decision on that part of my order about forming light battalions out of the rolls of honor 0? You have given permission to mount infantry to meet the exigencies of this service. If we mount any, they should be picked men. The light battalions are not intended to be organizations in any such sense as to affect their pay or to take the Page 91 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNJON. 91 from the rolls of their companies. They are only detailed from their companies for special service, entirely in accordance with what is and must always be done in any army, but in this instance effecting very important and useful ends. I have asked General ilalleck to please ex- amine this matter. 1 take the liberty of making this request to your- self also, as I think you will see in it only benefit, and no contravention of law. We all think it pregnant with good. W. S. ROSECRAKS. CARTHAGE, TENN., [February] 28, 1863, Col. C. GODDARD, (Via Gallatin, March 2.) Assistant Adjutant-General: The river has risen so much that it has taken me up to this time to land. I shall keep the boats here until I hear from you. I am much in need of cavalry here. I will not be able to mount my men here. Will Stokes cavalry join me soon ~ Very respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier-General. Lient. Col. C. GODDARD, NASHVILLE, February 28, 1863. Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff: I have information, which seems reliable, that Van Dorn has arrived with his command at Columbia. Eighteen thousand men, including Van Dorn, Wheeler, Wharton, and Forrest, reported there. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General, Commanding Post. IIDQRS. SECOND BRIG., ARMY OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Paris, Ky., February 28, 1863. General GILLMORE, Lexington: Lieutenant-Colonel Oden, Seventh Kentucky Cavalry, brought in 3 prisoners this morning. They also captured the rebel mail. Marshall left Pound Gap, with 4,000 men, on the 14th of this month. He is re- ported back of Mount Sterling. More than twenty letters corroborate this statement. If this prove true, I will not attack Cluke, for fear Mar- shall is just lying out of sight, intending to thrash me. I will send you the letters as soon as they can be procured from Carlisle. I have sent a man into Mount Sterling. BEN. P. RUNKLE, Colonel. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., February 28, 1863. Col. BENJAMIN P. RUNKLE, Paris, Ky.: Your dispatch, by carrier, was received about 11.30. You have full authority and orders to pursue Cluke and use him up. It is suppose Page 92 92 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXV. here, and so reported, that Col. John S~ Williams marauders, from Montgomery County, have joined Cluke, which would augment his force some 200. Unless this force is pursued rapidly, they will swim the Kentucky River (probably at Boonesborough), and pass out the way they came in. Do your best, and keep me informed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CAMP EIGHT MILES FROM WINCHESTER, Kr., February 28[~], 1863. General GILLMORE: I have fallen back to this place, having learned from a reliable source that the rebels were surrounding ns at Winchester. Our pickets ob- served them in small parties going through the fields, 1 mile from Win- chester. They are also on the Paris pike with small force. They re- port having been re-enforced, by General Pegram, with 2,000 men. I will send a scouting party back in the morning to Winchester. I ar- rested a man named Kidd, who told a plain story. He was on business for you. I passed him through Winchester. I will remain here for further orders. Apprise Colonel Runkle of these facts, as it is impossible for me to communicate with him by the Paris pike. Eighteen men of the Tenth Kentucky passed through Winchester, on their way to Boonsborough Ferry, just before the rebels attacked my pickets. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. REANEY, Major & venth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. [Indor8emeni] This dispatch was received early on February 29say, 2 a. m. Q. A. G1LLMORE. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 35. Murfreesborough, fJenn., Februdry 28, 1863. The general commanding feels the highest satisfaction in testifying to the signal ability and nutiring zeal of Lient. Col. C. Goddard, assist- ant adjutant-general and chief of staff, and believes his services are as highly appreciated by the officers of this army; but it is deemed advisa- ble, for the interest of the service, that there should be a general officer also on duty at these headquarters. Brig. Gen. James A. Garfield is assigned to that duty, and, until further orders, will be chief of stafL W. S. ROSECRAiNS, Major- General Page 93 H H H~ ~ H o o ~iO o ~~-~ ~ c~. n a r~ ~ 0 e n o ~ n 0 an~ w ~d o :: H: :~ ~: ~ H . . . H t-l O~ b3t\~t~ -~ L~n0 ~ ~ ~ Officers. _________ _____ ___ ________ ____I H : ~ sFcii: ~ w~ci otot H . o ~ -~ -~ ~ - otoo c~ ~ ~ c~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Men. N I ZI(~Ciii~ 0 CiiOO C~i0~i. ~i 0n~0.II& 0 ~ 0~~0Ob ~ ~ L~0i~ : ~I v~.not ~i i ii ni. ~ os. e~ots. ci on ~-i w ~~Iii0 ~~~cii~ci -~ ~s.~i1~.iI -~ si~S.7~i~ ci H Aggregate present. t~0i0~3 15~-~0 ~ ~0 000 ~-~Ci 0t~ Hs.nnocii 0~-i0 t~ 0 OiIiOO 0 ot 000 0 ~s.00 a ~ -~aco o ii II ~ ~ ~nai~o ~ ~ ~ ~ Aggregate present II --a 2i ~ 0ni-. -~ ~ andabsent. ~ o~s. o e~ -~aw-- ~ conoo- ni ~ :~ ~ Sa~ -4 -~~-~ ~. ~ Aggregate last re- cc o ot~co ci oicic, a a~soiasci 1 ~ ~:g~ ~II - ~ ~ I ~i ~ tur 0ininnion cu-i Heavy. ~ 0 . Inn ni-n I 0 0Cc ~ N N n~~1 N ~ 0 ~i 0 0ni ~7i2 0 z ~ ~j ~ ~ Hnb C2 o~O ~ ni0 H ~i c~ 0 00 Go * Page 94 94 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Abstract from return of the Department of the Ohio, Maj. Gen. Horatio U. Wright commanding, for the month of February, 1863; headquarters Cincinnati, Ohio. Present for -~ -~ ~ Pieces of duty. ~ -~ artillery. u a a, ~ . ~ a Command. a ~J2 H ~jj ~ ~n a a . ,~ ~a ,~ ~ a H H H d a H H te a ~ Department staff (Cincinnati, Ohio) Cincinnati, Ohio, Col. Seth Eastman Covington, Ky., Col. Jackson A. Lucy Newport Barracks, Ky., Col. Sidney Burbank. Total Cincinnati, Covinglon, and Newport. Camp Pennison, Ohio, Lient. Ccl. Geo. W. Neff.. Camp Butler, Ill., Col. William F. Lynch Camp Chase, Ohio, Col. August V. Kauta Total Camps Dennison, Butler, and Chase.. District of CentralKentucky, Brig. Gen. Quincy A. Gilimore: Staff First Brigade, Col. Samuel AGilbert (Frank- fort, Ky.). Second Bi!igade, CoL Benjamin P. Runkle (Danville, Ky.). Third Brigade, CoL Charles C. Doolittle (Lex- ington, Ky.). 118th Ohio, Col. 5. 11. Mott (Cynthiana, Ky).. Total District of Central Kentucky District of Western Virginia, Maj. Gen. Jacob D. Con: Staff (Marietta, Ohio) Escort company, Capt. Frank Smith (Mari- etta, Ohio). Northern Brigade. Brig. Gen. Augustus Moor (Buckhannon, W. Va.). District of Kanawha, Brig. Gen. E. Parker Scammon (Charleston, W. Va.). Total District of Western Virginia Dietrict of Western Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Jere- miah T. Boyle: Staff Bowling Green, Ky., Brig. Gen. Mahion D. Manson. Clarksville, Teun., Col Sanders D. Bruce*. Russeilville, Ky., Ccl. Cicero Maxwell Munfordville, Ky., Col Edward H. Hobson.. - Lebanon, Ky., CoL William A. Hoskins Henderson, Lebanon, Louisville, & e Total District of Western Kentucky District of Eastern Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Juli~xs White: Staff (Louisa, Ky.) Troops in district Total District of Eastern Kentucky 18 18 18 21 317 418 413 18 293 482 517 6 149 210 221 45 759 1,110 1,191 39 854 1,070 1,853 29 402 672 1, 070 35 712 974 1,011 - 103 1,988 2,716 3,954 11 11 12 103 2,840 3,479 3,727 - - 6 86 1,507 1,998 2,630 - - 6 98 1,488 2,260 3,093 6 36 704 873 893 334 6, 605 8, 621 10, 355 18 7 7 11 11. 1 77 95 110 110 147 2, 645 3, 346 4, 248 4, 213 4 189 4, 052 5, 023 5, 944 6, 041 344 6,774 8,471 10,313 10,375 4 10 10 10 97 1,671 2,564 3,188 2 86 1,572 2,235 2,841 4 44 608 821 1, 143 - 129 2,083 2,636 4,062 36 843 1,026 1,549 213 3,961 5,154 7,293 6 615 10,738 14,446 20,086 8 13 5 5 5 5 70 1,266 1,795 2,088 2,075 4 75 1,266 1,800 2,093 2,080 j RECAPITULATION. Department staff - Cincinnati, Co-vington, and Newport Camps Dennison, Butler, and Chase District of Central Kentucky District of Western Virginia District of Western Kentucky District of Eastern Kentucky Grand total 18 45 759 103 1.988 334 6,605 344 6,774 615 10,738 75 1, 266 18 18 1, 110 1, 191 2,716 3,954 8,621 10,355 8,471 10,313 10,375 14,446 20, 086 1, 800 2, 093 2, 080 1, 534 28, 130 37, 182 48, 010 18 4 13 4 12,455j 8j 39 * Also borne on return of the Department of the Cumberland. See p. 93 Page 95 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 95 HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, D. 0., March 1, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: GENERAL: There is a vacant major-generalcy in the Regular Army, and I am authorized to say that it will be given to the general in the field who first wins an important and decisive victory. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 1, 18631.09 p.m. Maj. Gen. H. W.~ HALLECK General-in-Chief: No special news from the front; save that Van Dorns cavalry has arrived at or near Columbia. Their papers reprehend Wheeler for at- tacking Donelson. They say they are to draw us down to Duck River, so that their cavalry can act on our flanks and communicationsthat theirs are the Bedonins of America. One of our men from Chattanooga says no troops have come there from Virginia. Prices at Chattanooga are: Flour, $40 to $50 per barrel; potatoes, $1 per bushel; corn, $4; salt, 60 to 70 cents per pound; molasses, $4 per gallon; mens shoes, to $25 per pair; boots, $50 per pair; bacon, $75 per hundred; beef; $30 per hundred. Now is the time for strong and sure measures. The conscript law is our admiration and hope. W. S. BOSECRANS, Major- General. MURRRBESBOROUGH, TENN., March 1, 186311.10 p. m. P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: Twenty-four hundred and eighty Burnside carbines are on the way from Louisville. Send me the five hundred Colts revolving carbines. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGII, TENN., March 1, 186311.30 p. m. Hon. E. N. STANTON, Secretary of War: I see a telegram from Washington saying you had ordered Major Lamed from my department. You could not well strike us all a more severe blow. We all know him to be a most faithful, indefatigable, and efficient officer. His loss here at this time will be doubly felt by all, and by the service. If you have any confidence in my judgment, or zeal for the service, I beg you not to do this. It will do no good. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General Page 96 96 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXV. NASHVILLE, March 1, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Fleet arrived this morningtwenty-six transports and four gunboats. The gunboats were supposed up the river; only went up 60 miles and returned same night, and passed down without landing or reporting. Two gunboats go up this morning as far as Carthage ROBT. B. MITCHELL, .Brigadier. General, Commanding Post. GALLATIN, March 1, 1863. Colonel GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff: SIR: I gave no orders to Colonel Wolford to go to Kentucky. I directed him to proceed to Carthage, destroy all the boats on the river, and, if there were others along the river, to extend his parties so as to make a complete destruction of boats. He said that two of his men had come in and reported a Georgia regiment at Bnrkesville, and he could capture them and return in ten days, for which time he drew rations. I told him, if he fouud that to be true, to do so, but he has been gone three weeks, and General Ward has sent for him twice. I shall send for him to-morrow. I sent him to Carthage on telegraphic permission from Gen eral Rosecrans. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 1, 1863. Brigadi4-General GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: I dont see why Runkle has gone to Winchester, instead of direct to Mount Sterling, where the enemy is. The consequence will be that Cluke, with his horses rested, will run away from IRunkle, with his tired animals. Cluke cant get a hundred men about Mount Sterling, nor can there be any truth in rumor of Marshalls advance. IRunkle must fol- low up the enemy vigorously, and attack him if he can overtake him. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. FRANKFORT, March 1, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT: DEAR SIR: The present and prospective condition of Kentucky greatly troubles and annoys me. I, by way of some relief, thought I would call your attention to it, not doubting that already you have been awakened to her perils. I have information from various sources, rebel and Union, all concurring that a heavy invasion of Kentucky has been determined on, and is being now rapidly prepared. I cannot doubt that in a very short time they will be upon us. We certainly have no adequate force here to meet them. I know of none elsewhere which we can command without an abandonment of other places and purposes which seem to liav~ been thought more important than the safety of Kentucky Page 97 CaAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 97 If Kentucky is permitted at this time to fall into the hands of the rebels, even so far as she was under Smith and Bragg, the consequences will be very different from those which then resulted. The wilting and withering effect of the proclamation upon the Union sentiment of Ken- tucky has been such that now they would receive, I fear, an aid and countenance far beyond any then given. When I had written thus far, IDr. Gano, from Georgetown, my brother- in-law, arrived, and informs me that four Confederate officers in dis- guise, who came in with Cluke, were all night at the house of secesh in Scott, who informed him that Marshall and Pegram were to invade the State from Virginia, with 7,000 mounted men, and simultaneously Mor- gan and Forrest would invade it from Tennessee with a like number; that the time agreed for the invasion was the 20th of this month; that the business of those disguised officers was to arrange with the rebels in Scott, Owen, Grant, and Harrison [Counties] to burn the bridges and tear up the railroad from Cincinnati to Lexington when they approached, and that like arrangements had been made for the Louisville and Nash- ville road. The doctor has full confidence in the truth of the state.ment. He says the man who informed him, although Southern rights, is a man of property, and reliable, and does not want them to come into Kentucky or be permitted to do so. lie gave the information in confidence as to the informant, but with liberty to inform me, to use as I thought best. The men were known to Ganos informant, and he has no doubt of the truth of their statement. It has been verified by many other statements and facts, all concurring. Now, general, something must be done immediately; you best know what. I fear nothing can be spared from General Rosecrans army. You want at least 10,000 men, in addition to all you have; half of those should be-mounted. Can they be sent from Washington, or from Gen- eral Grants army ~ If from anywhere, it must be done at once. Any troops which I could now raise would be worthless, for want of disci- pline. Horses could be pressed here to mount a pretty large number. If there are any troops in Ohio, Illinois, or Indiana, they should be or- dered here at once. You may rely upon it that you will, unless great effort is made, be overrun with rebels. Please write me the prospects and what you think of the whole matter. Advise me of anything you may desire done by myself. I would be very glad to see you in person, if it were convenient. Would it not be well to advise General Halleck of our danger and need of aid ~ Rest assured that if the rebels are permitted now to get a hold in Kentucky, they will be hard to dislodge. I fear the State more than I have ever done. Very truly and respectfully, JAS. F. ROBINSON [Governor of Kentucky.] HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Hender8on, Ky., March 1, 1863. Brig. Gen. J. T. BOYLE, Commanding Louisville, Ky.: GENERAL: I returned from Green River last night. When I arrived at Rochester, I learned that General Manson had replaced the company of my command at Woodbury by a company from his command, and that whatever stray guerrillas were in that region had fled from the river, closely pursued by General Mansons cavalry. The affair of the Gihnore was within 20 miles of Bowling Green, and too f~r off to b~ 7 I~ l~---YOI-4 ~xIu, VT I Page 98 98 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N.. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXv. pursued by my cavalry. J have one company of infantry of my coin- mand stationed at Spottsville, Rumsey, and Rochester, respectively the three lower locks. II deem it necessary, under present circum- stances, to guard the locks, as a very few disaffl~cted individnals could in an hour so injure them as to materially interrupt navigation. I will also send up on each boat in Government service a small guard, to pre- vent a recurrence of such affairs as that of the Gilmore. The country between the Green and Cumberland Rivers has been for some time past infested with small bands of guerrillas and Southern soldiers, returned, watching to commit depredations. I keep my forces scouting for them wherever and whenever I can hear of them. I have 40 of them now in prison, but, with all our vigilance and activity, it is almost impossible to prevent some depredations; they have too many friends to conceal their presence to be always discovered. These resi- dents ought to be held strictly accountable for harboring them. I desire to call your attention to a few facts connected with the Hattie Gilmore. She was taken by a party of 15 men without firing a gun. The robbers were kindly received by the officers of the boat, though this m~y have been policy. The captain of the boat (Gilmore) is a rebel at heart, being loud and open in denunciation of the Administration and the war. The pilot (Graham) boldly says he is a secessionist, and is merely working for pay. When captured, no injury was done to the boat, the captain only being required to give his parole that his boat should not be used in Government. This is just what the captain wanted, and congratulates himself that he is out of the Government service, so that he can run in private trade ou Green River. If it can be done consistently with honor and justice, I would recommend that the Gilmore be taken and continued in Government service. If this cannot be done, she should be prohibited from carrying on trade in Green River. Unless an example is made of the Gilmore, it will be holding out an inducement for other boats to be disgracefully surren- dered. You will pardon me for suggesting that an investigation into the loyalty of the officers in charge of boats in Government service, on Green River as well as elsewhere, would materially benefit the public service. I am satisfied that a large number of them are at heart rebels. The present acting captain of the D. B. Campbell (Combs) is no better than the captain of the Gilmore. I am credibly informed that the owners of the coal barges lately destroyed opposite Memphis l)assed up a few days ago. They openly declared their secession sympathies, and expressed the wish that every dd coal boat and steamboat on the river was sunk or burned. If such men are employed by the Govern- ment, may we not expect a recurrence of such disasters as those of the Gilmore and at Memphis ~? I will send up report of troops to-morrow. Very respectfully, - JOHN W. FOSTER, Colonel, Commanding. CARTHAGE, March 2, 1863. Major-General RoSECEANS: I have information that the rebels intend capturing the fleet on its way down the river. No gunboats have yet been seen. I shall detain them, unless otherwise ordered, till gunboats arrive. Respectfully, ~~ORGE CROOK, Bri~ia~cr- Qener Page 99 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 99 CARTHAGE, March 2, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: The cavalry from Gallatin has not yet reported nor been seen. The enemy has been scouting all around us, and we can do nothing with these small parties without cavalry. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. CAIRO, March 2, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Your two telegrams of 1st instant received. Am glad to hear by the last that Captain Fitch has communicated with you. Have sent every gunboat that I have available. Admiral Porter directed me to send all gunboats to him, except those now up Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers. Will send your dispatch to the admiral. A. M. PENNOCK, Fleet Captain, Commanding Station. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLUMBUS, March 2 1863 Major-General HURLEUT, 4.30 ~. m. Commanding Sixteenth Army Corps, ]Jlemphis, Tenn.: I have just received the following telegram: PADUCAH, March 2, 1863. Brigadier-General As~oru: Fort Donelson is again threatened by a force, said to be 8,000, nnder Van Dorn. I should like to have more infantry and some artillerymen to work the siege gnns at the fort. H. DOUGHERTY Colonel, Commanding. If Van iDorn succeeds at Fort IDonelson, he will long for Paduchh and Columbus, and I am obliged to trouble you again for cavalry and light artillery, and beg for arms for two regiments of infantry. As already reported, I have no artillerists in the district to serve the heavy guns, and no light batteries for the field. Deprived of the garrisons of the three forts on the Tennessee, I have hardly anything wherewith to check an invasion of the six counties between Columbus and the Tennessee, with forces at Paducah and Co. lumbus entirely inadequate. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. MEMPHIS, TENN., March 3, 186310.30 a. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Van Dorn is reported moving on Fort IDonelson with 8,000 men. I have telegraphed to Roseemps, ~nd to fleet captain at Cairo to send gunboats. S. A. HURLBUT Page 100 100 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CL*Ar. XXXV. CLARKSVJLLE, March 3, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Seventeenth Kentucky are loaded on boats ready to start. Rebels are again in force at Shoals. Boats fired on to-day coming down. Con- voy expected to-night or to-morrow. Unless ordered, will detain for convoy. S. D. BRUCE, Colonel, Commanding Post. FoRT HENRY, March 3,18633 p. m. Major-General ROSECRANS: Colonel Lowe has not returned from Saint Louis. Our cavalry and artillery is at Fort ileiman, and, owing to the high water, it is almost impossible to land them on this side of the river. We have 700 or 800 men at this place, with one 12-pounder in the fort. The fort is covered with water, untenable for troops. Colonel Lowe leaves Saint Louis to-morrow for this place. ~. ~. LYON, Golonel, Gommander. SMITULAND, March 3, 1863. Major-General RoSECRANS: I cannot possibly station one of my boats above Nashville. I am ordered to keep two always together, besides to make the trip above once a week. Van Porn will make an attempt to cut off your supplies by the river, and will either strike at Donelson or Palmyra. I must keep my force below Nashville to watch him, and see that he does not carry out his designs. He is reported now to be within 20 miles of Dover. LEROY FITCH, Lieutenant Commander. CORINTH, [March 3, 1863 0i]. Major-General RosECRANS, Murfreesborough: All the cavalry, Partisan Rangers, and mounted patrols in Alabama and Georgia have been concentrated and ordered to join Van Porn and Wheeler. A portion of them have crossed the Tennessee already near Huntsville,while the Georgia forces went by way of Chattanooga. 1 captured some of the Alabama men who came from Goulding Salt- Works, in Clark County, and my scouts all report the same fact. It is thought they can raise about 30,000. One battery of artillery (four guns) crossed at Decatur last week, to join Johnston. A heavy cavalry force crossed at Decatur to south side of river by steamer Dunbar, to cut off my force. 6. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. PxDuCAII, March 3, 1863. Brigadier-General ASIIOTH: There is undoubtedly a large force of the enemy near Fort Donelson, l~nt froi~ tb~ opev~vtQr tvt that post IL learn they are eonscripting in th Page 101 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 101 neighborhood, and it is not known if an attack is intended or not. I would feel much better satisfied if my force was larger. With my present available force c attack. , ould not make much resistance against a heavy H. DOUGHERTY Colonel, Commanding Post. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., iVlarch 3, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: GENERAL: I have no exciting news to report. Colonel Gilbert is moving to Richmond with a mounted force of about 900 men, and must by this time have his pickets at the crossing of the Kentucky, between Boonesborough and irvine. He is to place himself in communication with, and immediate control over, the two battalions at Irvine, x~hich are not yet mounted. Colonel Wolford, with an effective mounted force of 700 or 800 men, and who is temporarily nuder my command, by an order from General Boyle, is moving from Danville to Mount Vernon, with orders to com- municate frequently with Irvine and Proctor. Colonel Runkle has plenty of force with him, and is pursuing Cluke beyond Mount Sterling, I suppose. I think I have ascertained the facts about Marshalls reported advance into Kentucky. I receive very direct information that he moved eastward some two weeks ago, to take posi- tion at the Salt-Works near Abingdon, Va. Letters on which Colonel Runkle forwarded his report of their advance were from men in his command, and were probably written by them while on. the march, under the supposition that they were going into Kentucky through Pound Gap. I telegraphed you this morning that Colonel Wolford had been ordered by General Ward to proceed to Carthage, Tenn., and asking you to have the order suspended for a few days. I would like him to remain near Mount Vernon until Clukes movements are more fully developed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CLARKSVILLE, March 4, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: I suggest that, as the distance between Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers does not exceed 12 miles below Donelson and Henry, three or four gunboats be kept in this river between Donelson and Nashville, one leaving each place daily with supply of coal at this point and Donelson. This would obviate delay of boats at Donelsoh and Smith- land, consequently great expense to Government, and keep the river clear. S. D. BRUCE, C~olonel, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, INo. 40. f ]JIurfreesborough, Tenn., March 4, 1863. I. The following officers are assigned to duty as acting assistant inspectors-general at department headquarters, and will be respecte Page 102 102 KY., MID. AND L. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. as such: Capt. A. S. Burt, additional aide-dc-camp, and Capt. G. S. Hubbard, jr., Eighty-eighth Illinois Volunteers. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Ilosecrans: C. GODDAHD, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 4, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIoiIT, Oomrnandtng Department of the Ohio My dispatches from Colonel Runkle place him at Mount Sterling yesterday, with the enemy oft in his front, and keeping out of his way. iRunkle has not managed his pursuit well, and I shall relieve him at onc~ from the immediate command of the forces about Mount Sterling. Colonel Gilbert, with 900 mounted n~en,is at Itichmond, watching both ways, viz, Clukes retreat from the State, in a southwesterly di- rection, and the reported advance, from Wayne and Clinton Counties, of another rebel force, variously estimated at from 1,000 to 3,000, prob- ably much nearer the former; if it exceeds it. Colonel Wolford is at Mount Vernon, ready to act in either direction, with about 900 men, I think. He has not yet reported his actual strength. I believe the rebels are about to cross the Cumberland below Somer- set, and expect to hear something reliable as to their strength in a few hours. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMOIIE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 4, 1863. Brig. Gen. JULIUS WHITE, Commanding Eastern District of Kentucky, Louisa, Ky.: GENERAL: Your communication of February 22,* in regard to future operations in your district, has been received, and the facts and argu- ments therein adduced have been duly considered. Your remarks in regard to a base of operations, line of communication and the disad- vantages consequent on the peculiar shape of your district, are correct, more particularly as applying to the movements of a large army; but, under the circumstances which surround and control operations in your district, sueh as the nature of the country, character and nnmber of your troops, as well as those of the enemy, & c., we cannot expect to adhere too strictly to all the precise and arbitrary rules of warfare, to which the management of a larger force, and under other circumstances, would necessarily be subjected. Your statements in regard to the possible effects of occupying the less desirable and less reliable portion of the district, leaving the lower and better portion of it perhaps less securely guarded, for the some- what uncertain protection of the whole district, are, doubtless, in a measure correct; and the arguments against the policy of the move- ment would be, to some extent, well founded, if the only great object Not found Page 103 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 103 in view for you were the most secure protection of your district, or the better portion of it. But a very great object is to overlook and, as much as possible, to defend the Pound Gap entrance into Kentucky, which has been, and may again be, used by the enemy as a route to the central or blue-grass region. In order to effect this, the principal part of your force should, if possible, be pushed forward to and maintained in the vicinity of Prestouburg and Pikesville, so as to be in a position to press upon the flank and rear of any force entering through Pound Gap with a view to an advance into Central Kentucky; and if you could not take position to successfully oppose such inroad, the next object should be to annoy, distract, and damage the enemy as much as possible, by threatening and attacking his flank and rear. There is un- derstood to be, in the country proposed to be occupied, a sufficiency or hay and other forage to supply you for ~ considerable length of time, which should be taken as needed, giving, in all cases, proper vouchers for property thus appropriated, it is believed that a force of such character as that which composes, in part at least, your command, many of them residents of that country, and knowing the people and country thoroughly, should be able, at least as well as any troops, to maintain itself there, with what subsistence and support it could derive from the country, without depending so much upon communication with the base of supply at the Ohio River, as under other circumstances would be proper and in accordance with military usage. Such a force should be able to adopt, to some extent, at least, the plan of campaign pursued by the enemys force, of somewhat the same character to which they are opposed, not depending too much upon supply trains or lines of com- munication. A comparatively small force of cavalry, kept constantly moving, might sufficiently protect the lower country and keep open your line of communication, especially if assisted as much as possible by the loyal citizens of the country, and particularly by such irregular organizations of Home Guards, & c., as you mention, all of whom should be prepared to assist in defending their homes, at least, from any pos- sible inroads of the enemy, in the absence of the greater part of the regular force to the front. General Scammon has been directed, if practicable, to send two com- panies of the Fifth Virginia to Catlettsburg, and to advance the balance of that regiment to Wayne Court-fiQuse, according to your suggestion. It is impossible to lay down any particular rules for operation in a dis- trict such as yours, nor can a commander at a distance take any man- agement of the details. That must be left entirely to the immediate commander, who is supposed to be conversant with the general neces- sities of the service there, as well as those which the occurring circum- stances of each day may develop. Therefore, stating to you the objects most desirable to be attained in yoi~ district, viz, the overlooking of~ and as well as possible defending, the Pound Gap entrance to Kentucky, and the protection, as well as may be under the circumstances, of as much as possible of the district, you are expected to exercise your discretion in making such disposition of the force and means at your command as shall seem, in your judgment, best for their accomplish- ment, communicating at all times freely with headquarters in regard to anything, and with any suggestions of your own affecting the inter- & sts of the service in your district. At present no additional force can be furnished for service in that district. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Gommanding Page 104 104 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 4, 1863. Gov. J. F. ROBINSON, Frankjort, Ky.: DEAR Sn~: Your letter of the 1st instant has been received, and I am much obliged for the expression of opinion presented therein re- garding the condition of Kentucky, and the necessity for further forces within her limits in order to secure the State against the invasion of the rebel forces. As I believe I have already told you, the force in Kentucky has been reduced, in obedience to orders, and though this reduction is in conso- nance with my own views of the propriety of sending troops to the points where they can operate actively against the enemy, it has been made upon the supposition that the armies in advance would cover Kentucky from anything but minor raids. If this be not accomplished, the forces within the limits of your State are insufficient. If 15,000 men can come in without hinderance from the Federal forces in advance, as you seem to believe possible, then our force in Kentucky is inadequate to the pro- tection of the State, and should be promptly re-enforced. I do not fully credit, however, the rumor of so large a body invading Kentucky at so early a day. The roads and- the almost impossibility of procuring sub- sistence for so large a force at this season are the reasons upon which this opinion is based. Later in the year, say in April or~ May, such an attempt would be practicable, but not now. Whether this reasoning be true or not, some additional provision must be made for the security of Kentucky as the season advances, or we shall be exposed to raids in greater or less force, which will occasion much annoyance to the military, which can seldom get a chance to fight them in their rapid and erratic movements, and to the loyal citizens of the State, who will suffer from their depredations; but I do not apprehend any invasion in force so long as General Rosecrans lies in front with his army. The rebels have not the men to spare for such a purpose. If they detach heavily, their main body will be liable to defeat by his superior nuin- bers. If they send a smaller force, yet still not enough to create any great disparity in numbers, but yet too strong for the troops in Ken- tucky to meet, I shall call on General Rosecrans to aid us. It has always been understood between us that any large force of the enemy entering the State is to be attended to by his army, and he will be able, doubtless, to redeem his pledge. So far, therefore, as any invasion of the State upon a formidable scale is concerned, I rest comparatively easy, first, because so long as the roads are in their present condition the thing is impracticable; second, when the condition of the country for travel has so far improved as to render such a movement practicable, General Ilosecrans with his force can make a forward movement and drive the enemy back still farthA- from the State border, or, failing his readiness to advance, he can furnish the additional force necessary to defeat the enemys attempt. I have always believed, and still remain in the conviction, that the battles for the real and effectiv& defense of Kentucky should be fought in advance of her borders, and that General IRosecrans army should be made strong enough to do the work, while only enough troops should be retained in the State for its protection against predatory incursions. As before remarked, the force in Kentucky has been regulated upon this principle, but the numbers have been decided upon as a minimum num- ber for the winter. I had expected that this additional force would be obtained from that proposed to be raised for the defense of Kentucky Page 105 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 105 as even raw troops can be made useful for defense of positions which must be protected, and I still hope that some may be drawn from that source. A few troops can yet be drawn from the States north of the Ohio. The rest must be sent from other departments, and your letter will be referred to General flalleck in support of the call for further re-enforcements. I will endeavor to visit Frankfort in a few days, and consult with you upon this and other matters. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 5, 186310.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Intelligence (not very definite) received from various sources induces me to believe that the rebels design concentrating their strength in this quarter, and I am too weak in Kentucky to resist any serious invasion, with the force now there. I shall, therefore, keep any troops I have at present (whether under orders for other departments or not), unless you order otherwise. While somewhat impressed with the truth of such information, its vagueness prevents me from particularizing. If you have any troops to spare from any oth sent to Kentucky. erquarter, they should be speedily H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, Miarch 5, 1863. Col. J. C. KELTON, Asst. Adjt. Gen., jldqrs. of the Army, Washington, D. C.: COLONEL: I have the honor to transmit inclosed a copy of a letter recently received from Governor Robinson, of Kentucky, in regard to the probable damages of his State from the inroads in force of the rebels.* While I do not fully credit all the reports upon which his fears of an invasion of the State are founded, there is still enough in his com- munication to justify vigorous measures toward meeting and frustrating whatever attempts the rebels may undertake. Before proceeding further, I would remark that, being fully convinc~i of the good policy of defending Kentucky by forces in advance of the border, I have, in pursuance of such conviction and the orders from headquarters of the army, sent to General IRosecrans all the forces within the Department of the Ohio which could be spared, reserving only so much as seemed to be imperatively required to protect the State from rebel raids during the winter and early spring, the season of bad roads. As the season advances, the powers of the enemy to ravage the State increase, and larger forces than I now have are required for its protection. Unless the Army of the Cumberland advances and drives the rebels back within the next thirty days, the State of Kentucky will be exposed to inroads of the enemy in strength which I shall not be able to repel with forces now within her borders. In a dispatch sent by telegraph to the General-in-Chief to-day, I have stated that, in consequence of information received from a variety of See of March 1, p 96 Page 106 106 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXV. sources, I am disposed to believe the rebels contemplate mischief in this quarter, and that I shall consequently retain any troops now in the department, whether under orders for other departments or not, till matters become somewhat more settled, unless orders from your head- quarters direct otherwise. I also inclose a letter from Brig. Gen. S. P. Carter, inclosing a communication from Hon. J. B. Rodgers, of Tennes- see, asking that steps be taken to organize a force from the loyal Ten- nesseeans, Carolinians, and Georgians, now concealed in the fastnesses of the mountains of Tennessee. Perhaps something might be done in this way, but the experience of those who have attempted to raise regiments from this material have not been flattering. Possibly if placed under the direct. management of General Carter, aii East Tennesseean himself, the effort might meet with greater success. I would, therefore, recom- mend that authority for enlisting these men be given, under such re- strictions as the War Department or the General.in-Chief may prescribe, and that arms and equipments be sent here at once for issue to the troops when raised; and I would further urgently request that any troops from other departments that can be spared, to the number of from 5,000 to 10,000, be sent to Kentucky without delay. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRJGHT~ Major- General, Commanding. [Inclosure.] LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 3, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Gommanding Department of the Ohio: GENERAL: I inclose a letter from Hon. J. B. Rodgers, of Tennessee, with copy of a petition presented by him to the Secretary of War, ask- ing that ~eps be taken to organize Tennessee refugees, who are said to be in the mountains to the number of 4,000 men, and to equip them for service. I respectfully request that you will give the subject your early attention, and order such steps to be taken as will lead to the speedy relief of my suffering fellow Tennesseeans. I learned yesterday, through Governor Robinson, that he had good reason to believe, on information received confidentially, the rebels in- tend to invade Kentucky between the 18th and 20th instant from at least two quarters. A force of some 7,000 men are to enter the State ~romn the east, and about the same number from the south; the latter under John [H.] Morgan; both forces are to be mounted. Arrange- ments, the report says, have been made with secession citizens to burn the bridges on the railroads, and otherwise obstruct the passage of cars. I lay the matter before -you for your consideration and action. I am, general, respectfully, your obedient servant, S. P. CARTER, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. [Sub-Inclosurel WASHINGTON CITY, February 20, 1863. General SAMUEL P. CA~ITER, Lexington, Ky.: Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Sin: Please authorize General Samuel [P.] Carter, under the direction of General Wright, commanding the Department of the Ohio, to accept the services and to or Page 107 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 107 ganize and equip, in every suitable manner, and with as much dispatch as possible, and lato such troop as he shall deem advisable, whether infantry, mounted riflemen, or cavalry, all the loyal Tennesseeans, North Carolinians, and Georgians, or others now concealed in the fastnesses of the monntains of Tennessee, supposed to be about 4,000 men. Most respectfully, JNO. B. RODGERS. I laid the foregoing application before the Secretary of War to.day. He said General Wright could do as much, and, if he lacked any au- thority, apply to that Department, and he should have it. Go to the general; doubtless he will do all the poor fellows want. For Gods and mercys sake, do not delay all the relief in your power to bestow. They are looking to you, and hoping more from you than any other man. J have good authority for saying there are at least 4,000 men in the boundary of country asked for now in the mountains, ready to die for the country and their homes. Give them a chance, for ~ sake. General Wright is said to be a working man, and will not be apt to delay anything that can be done. I have one son and five nephews in the woods. Your friend, JNO. B. RODGERS. WASHINGTON, D. C., March 5, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Commanding, cf~c., ]Ilurfreesborough, Teun.: GENERAL: I have just received Maj. Gen. J. J. Reynolds letter of February 10, with your indorsement of February 18.* The suggestions of General Reynolds and General Thomas in regard to a more rigid treatment of all disloyal persons within the lines of your army are approved. No additional instructions from these headquarters are deemed necessary. You have already been urged to procure your subsistence, forage, and means of transportation, so far as possible, in the country occupied. This you had a right to do without any instructions. As the commanding general in the field, you have power to enforce all laws and usages of war, however rigid and severe these may be, unless there be some act of Congress, regulation, order~ or instruction forbid- ding or restricting such enforcement. As a general rule, you must be the judge where it is best to rigidly apply these laws, and where a more lenient course is of greater advantage to our cause. Distinctions, how- ever, should always be made in regard to the character of the people in the district of country which is militarily occupied or passed over. The people of the country in which you are likely to operate may be divided into three classes. First. The truly loyal, who neither aid nor assist the rebels, except under compulsion, but who fi~vor or assist the Union forces. Where it can possibly be avoided, this class of persons should not be subjected to military requisitions, but should receive the protection of our arms, it may, however, sometimes be necessary to take their property either for our own use or to prevent its falling into the hands of the enemy. They will be paid, at the time, the value of such property, or, if that be impracticable, they will hereafter be fully indemni- fied. Receipts should be given for all property so taken without being paid for. Second. Those who take no active part in the war, but belong to the class known in military law as non-combatants. In a civil war like See p 54, and Part I, p. 42 Page 108 108 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CuAr. XXXV. that now waged, this class is supposed to sympathize with the rebellion rather than with the Government. There can be no such thing as neu- trality in a rebellion. This term is applicable only to foreign powers. Such persons, so long as they commit no hostile act, and confine them- selves to their private avocations, are not to be molested by the military forces, nor is their property to be seized, except as a military necessity. They, however, are subject to forced loans and military requisitions, and their houses to billets for soldiers quarters, and to appropriation for other temporary military uses. Subject to these impositions, the non- combatant inhabitants of a district of country militarily occupied by one of the belligerents are entitled to the military protection of the oc- cupying forces; but, while entitled to such protection, they incur very serious obligationsobligations differing in some respects from those of civil allegiance, but equally binding. For example, those who rise in arms against the occupying army, or against the authority established by the same, are war rebels, or military traitors, and incur the penalty of death. They are not entitled to be considered as prisoners of war when captured. Their property is subject to military seizure and mili- tary confiscation. Military treason of this kind is broadly distinguished from the treason defined in constitutional and statutory laws, and made punishable by the civil courts. Military treason is a military offense, punishable by the common law of war. Again, persons belonging to such occupied territory, and within the military lines of the occupying forces, can give no information to the enemy of the occupying power, without proper authority. To do so, the party not only forfeits all claim to protection, but subjects himself or herself to be punished either as a spy or a military traitor, according to the character of the particular offense. Our treatment of such offenses and such offenders has hitherto been alto- gether too lenient. A more strict enforcement of the laws of war in this respect is recommended. Such offenders should be made to understand the penalties they incur, and to know that these penalties will be rigidly enforced. Third. Those who are openly and avowedly hostile to the oc- cupying army, but who do not bear arms against such forces; in other words, while claiming to be non-combatants, they repudiate the obliga- tions tacitly or impliedly incurred by the other inhabitants of the occupied territory. Such persons not only incur all the obligations imposed upon other non-combatant inhabitants of the same territory, and are liable to the same punishment for offenses committed, but they may be treated as prisoners of war, and be subjected to the rigors of confinement or to expulsion as combatant enemies. I am of opinion that such persons should not, as a general rule, be permitted to go at large within our lines. To force those capable of bearing arms to go within the lines of the enemy adds to his effective forces; to place them in confinement will require guards for their safe keeping, and this necessarily diminishes our active forces in the field. You must determine in each particular case which course will be most advantageous. We have suffered very severely from this class, and it is time that the laws of war should be more rigorously enforced against them. A broad line of distinction must be drawn between friends and enemies, between the loyal and the disloyal. The foregoing remarks have reference only to military status and to military offenses under the laws of war. They are not applicable to civil offenses nnder the Constitution and general laws of the land. The laws and usages of civilized war must be your guide in the treatment of all classes of persons of the country in which your army may operate, or which it may occupy; and you will be permitted to decide for yoursel Page 109 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 109 where it is best to act with rigor and where best to be more lenient. You will not be trammeled with minute instructions. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. NASHVILLE, March 5, 1863. General ROSECRANS: General Gilbert telegraphs that Colonel Cobnrn is engaged 6 miles out on the Columbia pike. Heavy artillery firing going on. Am hold- ing troops here in readiness to support Gilbert, if necessary. G. GIRANGEIR, Major- General. [P. S.]Later dispatch says fight is going on at Spring Hill. Gilbert is going down with his whole force. Baird leaves here at once with his troops. NASHVILLE Marc Brigadier-General GARFIELD, , h 5, 1863. Chief of Staff: One-half of Bairds command has already gone down on the cars. The other half goes soon, I accompanying. G. GIRANGER, Major- General. MtTRFREESBOROUGII, March 5, 1863. Brig. Gen. C. C. GILBERT, Franklin: The general commanding directs me to say that he regrets exceed- ingly that you did not support Coburn and help to bring off the infantry. He desires now that the commanding officer at Franklin keep him fully advised of the strength, position, and movements of the enemy, and give such immediate information as will enable him to give Sheridan proper instructions. We must strike a blow back, to counterbalance the injury we have sustained. Respectfully, FRANK S. BOND, Aide-de& amp. ThJRFREESBOROIJGH March 5 1863. Brig. Gen C. C. GILBERT, Franklin: The general commanding desires a fuller and more complete report of the affair in your front. He desires to know what force the enemy have, and the composition of it; whether you were repulsed or routed. Why did Colonel Coburn engage the enemy to such an extent, and what were his instructions ~l Respectfully, ~RANK S. BOND Page 110 110 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ICHAP. xxxv. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Brigadier-General SHERIDAN, llliitrfreesborough, March 5, 1863. Third Division, Twentieth Corps: GENERAL: A brigade of General Gilberts division, while making a reconnaissance near Spring Hill, on the Franklin and Columbia pike, were driven back with some loss. He reports the enemy in his front with 10,000, mostly infantry, and live pieces of artillery. This is, no doubt, exaggerated. The enemy appeared to be en route to attack Franklin, and that part of his force which ours repulsed yesterday proved to be only the advance guard of the enemy. It may be neces- sary for y,ou to send your forage train back and move across to Raleigh Spring [Hill], on the Lewisburg pike, to come in behind the enemy should he move on Franklin. We have not heard from General Steed- man yet, and fear he has not joined you. Communicate with him, if you can, and nr~ite his force with yours. Send us the news. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 5, 1863. Brigadier-General SHERIDAN: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to say that he has a telegram from Franklin, saying that Coburns brigade, which Was sent down to Spring Hill, has been repulsed; lost no artillery, but some in- fantry. It will be necessary to look after Steedman, and cover him, as it may be advisable for him to return to his old position, or it may be best to keep him with you. If the enemy have nothing but cavalry, it will be all right. Will send you further news as soon as it is received. Respectfully, & c., H. THRALL, Aide-de-.6~amjp. Col. C. GODDARD, CARTHAGE, TENN., March 5, 1863. Chief of Staff and Asst. Adjt. Gen., Army of the Cumberland: I have the honor to inform you that I am encamped on the south side of the river, and directly opposite Carthage. My extreme advance posi- tion is about one-half a mile from the river, on an eminence which com- mands the country from the foot of the ridge, on my right, to the Caney Fork, on my left. This naturally strong position I am strengthening by earthworks for my battery. On my right there is a high rocky ridge of most impracticable ascension for artillery; besides, the top of this ridge is too high for artillery to lire into my camp, and the side toward me is rocky and steep. My rear is protected by the Cumnberland River, and my left by the Caney so long as it is not fordable, and when it is fordable there is a very strong position on my left that can be occupied. With a force of 6,000 this will be a most impregnable position. The position selected for a depot is in my rear, and near the banks of the Cumberland River. I ~m, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE CROOK, Brigq4icr-qeiwr.d Page 111 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 111 GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIo, No. 16. f Cincinnati, Ohio, March 5, 1863. Brig. Gen. N. S. ilascall, U. S. Volunteers, having been assigned to the duty of arresting deserters and collecting stragglers from the Army of the Cumberland in the States of Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, is au- thorized and empowered to arrest deserters and collect stragglers found within the above-mentioned district belonging to any of the depart- ments or armies of the United State9 m~~~mi1itary commanders ~ and forward them to their regi- and commanders of posts or troops within the Department of the Ohio will furnish, from time to time, on the requi- sition of General ilascall, such force from their commands as may, in his judgment, be necessary to carry out the duties to which he is assigned. The quartermasters department will furnish, on the order of General ilascall, the necessary transportation for any parties he may send out in pursuit of deserters, and will also furnish him the necessary office accommodations, including fuel and stationery, at Indianapolis, md., on his requisition. By command of Major-General Wright: C. W. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CIJMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Teun., March 6, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Commander-in- Chief, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: Yours of the 1st instant, announcing the offer of a vacant major-generalcy to the general in the field who first wins an important and decisive victory, is received. As an officer and a citizen, I feel de- graded to see such auctioneering of honor. Have we a general who would fight for his own personal benefit, when he would not for honor and the country ~? He would come by his commission basely in that case, and deserve to be despised by men of honor. But are all the brave and honorable generals on an equality as to chances l If not, it is unjust to those who probably deserve most. W. S. ROSECIIANS. ]J~Eajor- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TE~N., March 6, 186312 noon. Maj. Gen. TI. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Something must be done to secure convoys for our boats, or this army will be without supplies. We have gained nothing by the high river, in subsistence, for the last ten days, because our convoys are detainedonly four little gunboats to do the work. If we cannot have some more help, we ought at once to have some more gunboats made. W9 ~3. IIOSECRANS, Lajor-cen~ra,~ Page 112 112 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV~ H]~ADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfrees borough, March 6, 1863. Maj. Gen. GORDON GRANG-ER, Franklin: Would like full report of Coburns affair at once; who is to blame that he was not supported, & c.; situation of the enemy, and prospect of attack. W. S. BOSECIRAKS, Major- General. FRANKLIN, March 6, 1863. Major-General BOSECRANS: I dont think an attack probable. From all I can learn, the enemys pickets are strongly posted about 4 miles from town, on the Columbia pike. The main body is supposed to be at Spring Hill. Scouts sent out this morning on Lewisburg and Carter Creek roads have not returned. Expect more accurate information when my flag of truce returns. G. GRANGER, lJJiajor- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Jliurfreesborough, ienn., March 6, 1863. Major-General GRANGER, Commanding at Franklin: Your dispatch is received. The general commanding desires to know how soon you can be ready to attack Van Dorn. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier-General and Chief of & aff. FRANKLIN, March 6, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: GENERAL: Colonel Coburn did not apply for support, nor did he com- municate with General Gilbert during the day at all. Up to the turn in the action, he did not seem to think he would need support, and at that time, had he applied, it would have been too late to have saved the in- fantry, the distance being 9 miles. When General Gilbert moved out, it was on account of apprehension that all was not right, since he was receiving reports from Colonel Coburn. He stopped the work on the trenches, and set out, leaving this post vacant, trusting to the arrival of General Bairds advance to protect it. If any one is to blame, it is Colonel Coburn, in not keeping General Gilbert advised, and in not ap- proaching the enemy with sufficient caution so as to ascertain his posi- tion and strength before attacking three or four times his own nuifibers in their chosen position. Respectfully, G. GRANGER, Miajor-General. MURFREESBOROUG-H, March 6, 1863. Maj. Gen. GORDON GRANGER, Franklin: Now lay your plans well, and clean those fellows out thoroughly if possible9 It may become lively if I ~aii get t1w~i tids side of DIlel Page 113 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 113 River; so keep me posted most thoroughly of everything. Make sure by line of couriers to La Vergue, or else to Nashville, so that there can be no mistake. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. Lient. Col. C. GODDARD, FRANKLIN, March 6, 1863. Assistant Adjutant- General: Dispatch received. I have less than 5,000 infantry, raw and unor- ganized. To attack the enemy successfully, and hold this point, I should have at least 5,000 more of veteran infantry. Can [move] against him whenever such additional force is furnished. Two companies of cavalry started for Steedman as soon as your dispatch was received, to open courier line. It is hardly possible to hear from them yet. G. GRANGER, Major- General. FRANKLIN, March 6, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Flag of truce in. Van Dorn replies that our dead are buried and wounded cared for; declines my request. Their force is about 1~,000. mounted infantry, cavalry, and artillery; main body this side of Spring Hill; six generals (Van Dorn, Whitfield, Cosby, Wheeler, Forrest, and Armstrong). Our loss in killed, 50; wounded, 200. Rebel loss, 150 killed; 500 to 600 wounded. Rebels say our men fought desperately, and only gave up when enemy surrounded. We have ten days rations. You can now judge whether it isjudicious br our small force to attack double its numbers of old troops, in their chosen position, leaving our rear, for 30 miles, uncovered. Respectfully, G. GRANGER, Major- General. General GARFIELD, Chief of iS1taff: FRANKLIN, March 6, 1863. Captain Merrill will be here to-morrow. Fortifications will be done in about one week. About ten days rations, and one hundred and fifty to each man, on hand. No infantry coming in. Good night; am sick and tired out; had no sleep for a week. - G. GRANGER, Major- General. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 6 [7 ~], 1863. General GARFIELD: Received dispatch from Sheridan a few minutes since. Is on the march. He will be midway between this and Triune some time to- morrow. The roads are nearly impassable. No firing heard here, except our own, to clean up. Sheridan has only his division. I want six regiments from Mitchell; one of his brigades is ready to move. G. GRANGER, Major- General. 8 I~ RYOL XXIII~ PT I Page 114 114 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. FRANKLIN, March 6 [7 ~], 1863. General GARFIELD: GENERAL: Our only hope of catching the enemy must depend upon Sheridans getting behind and cutting him off. It would be well to re-enforce Sheridan by Steedman. The best thing for us is to lie still, and with our cavalry divert the enemys attention from 5heridaus movements. G. GRANGE1I, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, March 67 1863. [General GRANGER:] What good can you do Sheridan by lying still ~? The general thinks the best thing you can do to divert the enemys attention s to attack him. How soon can you get ready l Have you opened communication with Sheridan l What help do you want ~ C. GUDDARI). HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 6, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: I have just received a dispatch from Colonel Heg, who says he is halt- ing in same position. The enemy has retired from his front. There had been heavy firing to the right of Colonel Hegs position, but it has ceased. Colonel Heg will scour the country in his front, and bivouac to-night where he now is. Colonel [F. A.] Jones brigade is at Middleton, about 3 miles from Colonel Hegs position. Colonel Heg has opened commu- nication with Colonel Jones. Respectfully, A. MoD. MoCOOK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Miurfreesborough, Tenn., March 6, 1863. Major-General MoCooK, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: Direct Colonel Heg to skirmish the enemy and drive him if he can, but be careful not to get in beyond his depth. if you deem it necessary, you may send forward another brigade to his support. Where is the brigade which went out to support Colonel Heg ~ J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 6, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Have just heard from Jones, who took possession of Middleton at 3 oclock, after a sharp skirmish, in which he had several men wounded. Colonel Jones awaits further orders. Respectfully, A. MoD. MoCOOK, Major-Gener4 Page 115 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 115 HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 6, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: General Sheridans effective strength is 4,572; he has that number with him, exclusive of the cavalry. The brigade from General John- sons division that went out with General Sheridan returned night be- fore last, and General Sheridan has no brioa division with him. b de outside of his own A. MoD. IcCOOK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND ilfurfreesborough, Tenn., March 6, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES B. STEEDMAN, Commanding Brigade at Triune: The general commanding directs you to take up a strong position at Triune, and throw up light earthworks, to enable you to maintain your- self against a considerable force of the enemy, should it be necessary. Five regiments from La Vergue have been ordered to join you with tools. Select a good position with reference to roads, watei-, and a line of retreat. Bring up supplies from your own camp. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 6, 186311.30 a. m. Brigadier-Gene~al GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: The artillery sent out with Colonel Coburn is now in my camp safe, and cavalry is back and entire. But three infantry regiments have, no doubt, been surrounded and. destroyed or captured. Three regiments of General Bairds command have arrived, but there are no indications that the enemy intend to follow up his success. General Sheridan. will do well to approach with caution Van Dorns command; itisprob- ably not less than 10,000 men, well trained and well handled; it has as many as six pieces of artillery, one which is of large caliber. We have 80~wounded; the loss in killed I will know in the morning, from the regiments which have returned. I send you a copy of a report sent to General Granger. C. C. GILBERT, Brigadier- General. LA VERGKNE, TENN., March 6, 186311.05 a. m. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Murfreesborough, Ten A courier, belonging to the cavalry detachment here, left Concord Church this morning. Just before he left, a courier ciime in from Ge Page 116 116 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. eral Steedmans command, bringing information that General Steed- man had a fight yesterday near Franklin with Van Dbrns command. The latter were driven back; some loss on both sides, but amount not reported. The major of the First Tennessee Cavalry was reported killel. These facts the courier says he obtained from the officer in com- mand of the camp, but the latter sent no written communication, and I give the news as distinctly as I received it Dispatch to Colonel John- son received and forwarded to him. JOHN M. HARLAN, Colonel, Commanding Post. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 41. f Murfreesborouyh, Tenn., March 6, 1863. The following rules for the government of ambulance service in this department will be observed in future: I. There will be allowed to each regiment one two-horse ambulance, which will remain with, and be kept in order by, the regiment. All ambulances now serving with regiments in ekcess of this allow- aiice will be at once turned over to the chief quartermasters on duty with the corps, detached division, or brigade. II. There will be allowed for each brigade ten ambulances, to be re- tained at corps headquarters, or at the headquarters of divisions or bri- gades where they are on detached service. The chief quartermasters of army corps, detached divisions, or bri- gades will receipt for and be held responsible that these ambulances are kept in serviceable order. They will appoint an ambulance master for each train of ten ambulances, who will have immediate supervision of the same. They will hold these trains in readiness to comply with requisitions from the medical directors of corps, divisions, or brigades. III. As ambulances are issued to the army for the transportation of the sick and wounded, they will be used for that purpose only. Any person found using or causing ambulances to be used for hauling freight, or for personal conveyance, except by special written permission of the corps or detached commander, will be arrested and tried for dis- obedience of orders. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 6, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, ]iiliurfreesborough, leun.: Reports from Governor Robinson and some of our most intelligent and reliable citizens indicate a probable invasion of Kentucky within the next twenty days by the forces of Morgan, Pegram, and Marshall. I dont credit them, but must be prepared, and, hence, cannot reduce my force, already too small, by sending the two regiments till they are replaced. The Governor fully credits the report. Morgan is to enter in western part of Kentucky, Marshall in eastern, and Pegram either with him or through Cumberland or Big Creek Gaps. Will have the two regiments ready to move as soon as yours arrive. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding Page 117 CHAT. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 117 NAVY DEPARTMENT, March 7, 1863. Capt. A. M. PENNoUK, Senior CommandThg Officer, U. S. Navy, Cairo, lit.: The following is a copy of a telegram, dated yesterday, just received by General Halleck from General Rosecrans: Something must be done to secure convoys for our boats, or this army will be with- out supplies. We have gained nothing by the high river, iu subsistence, for the last ten days, because our convoys are detainedonly four little gunboats to do the work. If we cannot have some more help, we ought at once to have some more gunboats made. You must take measures to convoy and protect the army transports, without waiting to communicate with Acting Rear-Admiral Porter. To do this, you- are authorized to purchase a necessary number of suitable boats, and arm and equip them. If necessary, you can call on Commo- dore [Joseph B.] Hull, at Saint Louis, to assist you. The Department wants prompt and energetic steps immediately taken to give the neces- sary protection to the transports of General Rosecrans army. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy. MURFREESBOROUGH, March 7, 1863. Brigadier-General BAIRD, Franklin: Sheridan has orders to report to General Granger, at Franklin, to- morrow, with his division. I wish him to be posted east of the place, in a good militaryr position, and within supporting distance, but with a view to be within supporting distance of Steedman, who will have re- enforcements and~ earthworks thrown up soon. Tell General Granger to open communication with him early in the morning, and halt his col- umn with this view. Cavalry communication must be kept open with both Steedman and Sheridan, without fail. Our cavalry will be between Steedman and Sheridan. Acknowledge receipt of this, and keep me fully advised of everything. I send this to you, because I want General Granger to sleep and get well. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General. (9LARKSVILLE ]Jlarch 7, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. HOSECRANS: The rebel force firing on boats at Shoals is Colonel [L. S.] Ross regi- ment. They have their headquarters at Kinderhook, near W illiamsport, where Wheeler, Forrest, and Woodward are said to be. They are con- scripting and stealing all the horses in the country. Many conscripts have come in, asking protection, which I gave. I shall watch them closely, and try and make attack on them. S. B. BRUCE, (olonel, Commanding Post. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FoRcEs, Henderson, Ky., March 7, 1863. Brig Gen. J. T. BOYLE, (3ommanding Louisville, Ky.: GENERAL: I desire to call your attention to the condition of affairs in the district of the State included in my command, in order that yo Page 118 p 118 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. may the better know what is necessary to be done in order to preserve the peace of this section of the country. The counties between Green and Oumberland Rivers are now in a com- parative state of peace. At this time no trouble is to be apprehended, except from small bands of guerrillas and returned rebel soldiers, who are committing depredations whenever they dare, but they are closely hunted out by my forces, not being allowed to concentrate. This season of the year is not favorable for the operations of the guerrillas, as the leaves and undergrowth do not now afford a hiding place,and the weather is too unpleasant. But it has always been their threat that they would return in the spring. Last fall, when [Adam B.] Johnson and [T. 0-.] Woodward were driven out of the country, Johnson connected himself with Morgan and Woodward with Forrest, with the condition that when springreturned they would be permitted to bring theirfollowers and other soldiers from this section back into the Green and Cumberland River country, and stir up the people anew to take up arms. I have lately re- ceived reliable and authentic information that such is their intention. The families and friends of those who are in the Southern army confi- dently expect their return, and they secretly boast that the whole country down to the Ohio will be in their power. Though it might be difficult for them to come back in large bodies, they can easily get through our lines separately and in small bands, even with their guns, and without any difficulty with pistols. Their friends and sympathizers are almost one united body from this region all the way through Tennessee to the rebel lines. And then it must be borne in mind that this part of the State and Southwest is almost all rebel in its sympathies. However much this fact may be denied, I have seen, and am seeing daily, too many evidences of it. The guerrillas, when they return, if in any con- siderable numbers, will meet with a hearty welcome, and will be har- bored and cared for by the people. There is policy for the Southern generals to permit them to return, to annoy the rear of the army and distract our forces. Being in a considerable degree responsible for the peace of this re- gion, and feeling satisfied that I have stated the danger correctly, I am anxious that I may be prepared to meet it. My command are thoroughly acquainted with the country, its roads and by-ways, and the character of the guerrilla warfare. When properly prepared, Ifeelmyself able tocontend with both Johnson and Woodward, and can keep the country clear from Green to Cumber- land River. But I have at present only four companies of cavalry, and they very much reduced by sickness and hard service. My infantry will be almost useless against the guerrillas, unless they are mounted. In my last interview with you, you stated that it was your intention to mount my own regiment (the Sixty-fifth Indiana). I desire that you would extend the order also to the Ninety-first Indiana, of my com- mand, which I will in a few days have concentrated at Smithland. With the Ninety-first at Smithland, the Sixty-fifth and the four com- panies of cavalry properly disposed, and all well mounted, I will guarantee the protection of the country against Johnson and Wood- ward. My command being mounted, and thoroughly acquainted with the guerrilla warfare, whenever their presence is no longer necessary here wonld be ready for any daring, dangerous, or expeditious service in any other quarter. I consider my command in a good state of dis- cipline, and thoroughly imbued with the spirit and energy of the war, and can render good service to the State and country. I should be pleased to hear from you on the subject of mounting m Page 119 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 119 command, and if it can be done I would desire that it should not be delayed too long, for in six weeks from this date I anticipate an active campaign in my district. Very respectfully. JOHN W. FOSTER, Colonel, Gommanding. [Indorsernent.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO. 6~incinnati, Ohio, March 12, 1863. Respectfully returned ~o Brigadier-G-eneral Boyle, who has been authorized to mount 1,500 infantry in his district, and who should hasten, as far as possible, the purchase of the horses which the quartermasters department at Louisville has been instru~ted to procure. Four hundred sets of horse equipments have been sent to Louisville from Saint Louis for this force. The rest will be supplied from here. Not more than one regiment should be taken from Colonel Fosters force for this purpose. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. MURFUEBSEOROUGH, TENN., March 8, 18639 p. m. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General: Please do your utmost to give me the very best business quarter- master you can for Nashville. Things are so working that we must have a larger depot therea very large one. Time is precious. If we fail, it will be in the management of our transportation, and consequent failure to get supplies before the river falls. Orders and instructions are not the things. Power and energy, with system and business capacity, are what is now wanted. Respectfully, W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General, Commanding. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 8, 1863. Major-General ROsEcRANS: My cavalry advance still reports strong force in my front, and that Van Porn, with one-half of his force, has gone to Triune to assist in fighting a b~ttle there. I will ascertain what is in my front early to- morrow. G. GRANGER, Major- General. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 8, 1863. General ROSECRANS: My forces are all here, and I have given the order to march in the morning. Have you any orders? There is a rumor that Van Porn has evacuated Spring Hill and gone in the direction of Chapel Hill, with the view of swinging around on Triune. Do you consider Triune safe with its present force in case Van Porn has moved in that direction? G. GRANGER, Major- General Page 120 120 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CUAr XXXV. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 8, 1863. Major-General GRANGER, Franklin: Advance at once firmly, secure your baggage, and establish courier lines, and keep me very frequently advised of movements and results. Steedman reports strong force in his front. If the force at Spring Hill is found to be insignificant, secure Franklin, an(l aim to strengthen Steedmans position. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General, Commanding. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 8, 1863. Major-General JIOSECRANS: I do not understand your last telegram. I have called up Sheridans command in order to advance early to-morrow. Force is too small without him. Have I understood ~ The road between here and Triune is almost impassable. G. GIRANGElI, Major- General. FRANKLIN, TENN., March 8, 1863. General IROSECRANS: I have report from a judicious source that the railroad bridge over the Tennessee, at Bridgeport, is washed away. Also that Van Dorn is being re-enforced from Shelbyville. G. GIRAKGER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 8, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of & aff: Lieutenant [L. H.] Thickstu~n, an officer of my escort, was sent out at 11.30 a. in., to ascertain about the firing this day. He drove the rebel pickets in on three roads, and was within 1 mile of Middleton. I took observations with compass during the firing. It was at or near Nolens- ville. God is with us to-day. Prepare for a victory. A. MoD. MoCOOK, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, [March 8, 1863.] Major-General McCoolc: The general commanding directs you to send two brigades imme- diately to Salem, to observe any movements the enemy may make. Keep scouts well out toward Versailles and Middleton and across on the Shelbyville pike. J. A. GAHFIELD Brigadier-General and Chief of staff Page 121 ChAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 121 GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. IDEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 43. Miurfreesborough, Teun., March 8, 1863. I. The general commanding finds within his lines many helpless and suffering families, whose natural protectors and supporters arein arms against usthese people need food, clothing, and protection, which it is neither our duty nor in our power adequately to providemany others whose sympathies and connections are such as to surmount all the ob- ligations that arise from their permission to remain within our lines, forbidding them to communicate with the enemy or act as spies against us. The residence of these persons within our lines not only continually endangers us, but their own integrity and personal safety. It is there- fore ordered that, first, all those whose natural supporters are in the rebel service, and, second, all whose sympathies and connections are such that they cannot give the assurance that they will conduct them- selves as peaceable citizens, shall hold themselves in readiness to go south of our lines within ten days from the date of notice. II. They will be permitted to take with them all their personal effects, not contraband of war. They will apply to the nearest provost-marshal or commanding officer for the requisite passes, and will be required to give assurance that they have taken no contraband of war. ILL Persons thus going south, who shall thereafter enter our lines without permission, will be regarded and treated as spies. IV. All who acknowledge their obligations as citizens of the United States; all who give, by the non-combatants oath and bond, or in any other satisfactory manner, the requisite assurance that they will behave themselves as peaceable citizens, may remain at home, following their usual avocations, subject to military orders and regulations. By command of. Major-General Rosecrans~ - C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE Onio, Cincinnati, March 8, 1863: Maj. Gen. W. S. RoSEcRANs, Commanding Department of the Cumberland: GENERAL: There is an actual, but not well-defined, fear of an invasion of Kentucky, within the next twenty or thirty days, by a strong force of the rebels. No information I have been able to obtain makes this at ~ll certain; yet the fact that all the invasions which have hitherto occurred have been foreshadowed by just such rumors makes me cau- tious. The programme, so far as my intelligence goes, is that Pegram and Marshall are to enter by the Pound Gap, and, perhaps, Cuinberland and Big Creek Gaps, and that about the same time Morgan is to enter in your vicinity, either to the right or left of Nashville. While I do not credit these rumors as regards present invasion, I am sure it will be attempted whenever the roads become practicable, and I therefore give you the information. Should an invasion be attempted beyond the power of ~y slender force to successfully oppose, I shall, of course, look to you for aid. In this you are as much interested as myseif since your communications are through and dependent upon the Department of the Ohio. I have sent to you every man not needed for the defense of the State during the winter, while the roads are bad, and an invasion in force nekt to impossible. Please, therefore, so dispose of your forces that you can afford me the requisite aid, if any is needed. I need no Page 122 122 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXV. say that the preservation of Kentucky from serious inroads of the rebels is of the utmost importance to our cause. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 8, 1863. Col. C. J. WALKER, Tenth Kentucky Cavalry: I am in receipt of your communication of yesterday, giving the report of 2,000 of Morgans and Marshalls command being near Owingsville. Whatever force may be there, 1 do not believe that Morgans or Mar- shalls is, as I know that a portion of Morgans force was in the fight at Franklin, Teun., a few days since, and I firmly believe that Marshalls is at or near the salt-works near Abingdon, Va. A more probable way to account for any rebel force in Bath is that Cluke did not go out via Hazle Green, but has been perdu in the hills for some days. You are authorized to retain the detachment of the One hundredth Ohio Volunteer Infantry and On~e hundred and twelfth Illinois Volun- teer Infantry, and the section of mountain howitzers which was sent out with them,until this last report is exploded or confirmed, if you desire it. When do you want rations ~ Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMOIIE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 8, 1863. Brig. Gen. JULIUS WHITE, Commanding District of Eastern Kentucky: GENERAL: Your letter of the 1st instant, reporting that you had sent out a force of infantry and cavalry to intercept at or near Prestonburg the forces of the enemy, whom you supposed might retire in that direc- tion from Mount Sterling [is received]. I am directed by Major-General Wright to inform you that information was not given you, since it was supposed the enemy would be driven out long before intelligence could reach you, but it is possible that the forces so promptly sent may be in time to render signal service. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. W. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Tenn., March 9, 1863. Maj. Gen. GORDON GRANGER, Franklin: Your movements must be left mainly to your own discretion, as your report of the situation is necessarily meager. The general com- manding thinks you might post a brigade at Spring Hill, and, after you are satisfied that there is no considerable rebel force toward Columbia Page 123 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 123 you might move with your main force upon Raleigh Hill, and find cer- tainly where the enemy bas gone. If soathwa~d, he may be pushed into the river. From Raleigh Hill, if you find you have force enough to cover Frank- lin safely, the general commanding desires you to send Sheridan with his division back to this place, either by way of Chapel Hill and Union- vile or by way of Riggs and Eagleville. Triune is now secured by Davis, who is at Eagleville, supported by Granger, near Versailles. With this statement of facts and wishes, the movement is left to yourself. As soon as you return to Franklin, push forward the for- tifications. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]Iiurfreesborough, Tenn., March 9, 1863. Major-General MCCooK, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: The general commanding directs you to order the two brigades of General Davis division now at Salem to march at daylight toward Ver- sailles. The remaining brigade of the same division, with the exception of a detail sufficient to strike the tents and pack the baggage of the whole division, will start as early as possible to join the other two. See that the division has three days rations and 100 rounds of ammunition. When the advanced brigades have reached the junction of the Eagle- ville and Versailles roads, they will observe Eagleville, and, if battle is opened in the direction of Triune, they will at once move forward and engage, ~t the same time informing General Granger, whose division will follow, and support Davis. The primary object of this order is to relieve the position of General Steedman at Triune, who is expected to be attacked by a part of the force of Van Dorn, possibly strengthened by three brigades of infantry from Shelbyville. It is intended that Gen- eral Davis division shall act as a unit so soon as the several brigades can be joined. A brigade from General Wood xwill occupy Salem when General Granger advances beyond it, and will take orders from you. Send a brigade of Johnsons to observe the Shelbyville pike with a suf- ficient support. Walkers brigade will advance on the Manchester pike. It will be well to have all the tents struck and baggage packed ready for a march. Caution your division commanders to keep up constant communication with your headquarters. Report frequently to these headquarters. There is not a moment to lose. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier-General dnd Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 9, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: General Davis writes from near Versailles, at 4 p. in., as follows: My advance has reached Versailles. No enemy has been seen, nor can I hear of any. I shall be in position at Versailles in one hour from this time. I have heard no firin Page 124 124 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. in the direction of Triune or elsewhere. Nothing was said in my instructions as to which road I should take to Triune. I shall take the bcst. JEF. C. DAVIS Brigadier-General. All quiet in my front on the Shelbyville pike. A. MoD. MoCOOK, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]Jlurfreesborough, March 9, 1863. Major-General McCooK: Order Davis to move on toward Triune early to-morrow morning, un- less he knows there is no force of the enemy between him and Steed- man. He shonld keep a strict lookout on Riggs cross-road, which runs nearly parallel with the Trinne and Shelbyville pike. Order Grauger to move to Versailles, and observe Rover and lllujonville. Should there be no enemy toward Triune, so as to make it necessary for Davis to go in that direction, he may go into Unionville and observe Chapel Hill and the river. They must report often. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, ]Iiliarch 9,1863. Major-General MOCOOK: Stanley Matthews brigade has been ordered out on the Shelbyville pike. You need not send Johnsons, but hold it in readiness to support Matthews. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Star. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 9, 18634 a. m. Brigadier-General STEEDMAN: Keep your force well in hand. Do not divide it. Be careful of your ammunition. If you are attacked, keep the enemy at bay for six honrs, and we will help you. Keep us frequently and frilly informed by cou- rier to La Vergue. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General qnd Chief of Staff. (Colonel Croxton Will send this through at once.) HDQRS. 14TH ARMY CORPS, DEPT. OF THE CUMBEELAND, Murfreesborough, March 9, 1863. Colonel WALKRR, Gommanding First Brigade, Third Division: COLONEL: You are directed by the general commanding to move with your brigade and report to Brigadier-General Steedman, at Triune. Make yonr arrangements to march to the termination of the Wilkinso Page 125 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 125 pike to-morrow, and to Triune the following day. You will take all your camp and garrison equipage with you. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, [GEO. E. FLYNT,] Assistant Ac?jutant- General and Chief of Stafr. HEADQUARTERS FIRST TENNESSEE CAVALRY, March 9, 1863. ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL: SIR: In obedience to your order, I marched this morning with parts of five companies, comprising about 125 men, out on the Manchester pike. I first moved out, and waited until Colonel Walker came out to the outpost of our pickets, and, after having conferred with him by courier, I then moved on, occasionally communicating with the colonel, until I had advanced about 1~ miles beyond the point where I left the rebels on Thursday last. I then halted the column, and sent one com- pany forward to make a reconnaissance and to report, which resulted in ascertaining that the enemy had fallen back, and I think that they have gone beyond Beech Grove, to a small place called Fairfield, in the county of Bedford. I communicated these facts to Colonel Walker, who sent me word that he was returning to town, and that I could do so also; whichldidaccordingly. With high regard, I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBT. GALBIRAITH, Lieutenant- colonel, Gommanding Cavalry. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLUMBUS, March 9, 18631 a. m. Major-General HURLEUT Commanding Sixteenth Army Corps, Memphis, Tenn.: The abandonment of the railroad and the withdrawal of our troops to Columbus and Jackson will leave all the wide range of the enemys country between the Mississippi and the Tennessee, say, over 70 miles from here to Jacksonat the control of cavalry exclusively. I have hardly any. Van Dorn, encouraged by his new successes, will strike at Paducah and Columbus, well aware of the small force 1 can oppose to him, and, as I expect no help from the Tennessee posts, I would once more re- quest you for the regiment of cavalry promised long ago, and another light battery; also that the only two efficient cavalry companies here (Third U. S. Cavalry), Captains lowland and McNally, who are under marching orders to Memphis, be left at Columbus for the present, as it is impossible for me to spare them now without manifest injury to the service. The railroad as well as telegraph line will be destroyed by the country people themselves as soon as unguarded, and will leave me without cavalry; entirely in the darkunable to feel the enemy. The order of our General-in-Chief to hold Columbus at all hazards is filed in my office. I will dethud it to the last, but to hold it requires an adequate force. The sacrifice of the garrison would hardly indemnify the country for the loss of Columbus. It would be the hardest blow for all our troops down the Mississippi, and endless disaster would ensue. ASBOTH, Brigadier-General Page 126 126 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CuAr. XXXV. MEMPHIS, March 9, 1863. General AsnoTH: The order to abandon the road is from General Grant. He is now drawing heavily on this corps. I cannot send you another battery. The cavalry (Third Illinois) will be sent you. Retain companies of the Third U. S. CaValry until turther orders. What do you mean by Van iDorns new success? S. A. HULILBUT, Major- General. COLUMBUS, Ky., March 9, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: I received the following telegram this morning: Some 7,000 rebels in the vicinity of the mouth of Duck River, under command of Pillow, of infantry, and Wheeler, of cavalry. They have five ferry-boats run down from Duck River, and three more a few miles above the mouth of it, hid in the woods. The country is overflowed 2 miles from the river; no crossing. The above is reliable, the informant being employed by myself in secret service, and directed to report only positive facts. I communi- cate names to the commander of the navy at Cairo, reqnesting him to send gunboats up the river to destroy the ferry-boats and prevent their crossing. If taken in the rear, the rebels are lost. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 9, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Gommanding Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio: SIR: Inclosed send you some statements of two of my scouts, just in from Tennessee. Lieut. J. B. Edwards left Williamsburg Friday, the 6th day of March, 1863. His mother, who was at Williamsburg, left Knoxville, Teun., on ~ 28th day of February, and Ross, Anderson County, Tennessee, on t. 3d day of March. She says Pegram is at Beaver Creek, 10 miles n~~thwest of Knoxville, with from 10,000 to 12,000 cavalry and one ([W. C.]-\~Kains) battery of artillery, 6-pounder cast-iron guns; that their intention was to come into Kentucky two weeks ago, by way of James- town, Fentress County, Tennessee, but were stopped by flood in Clinch River and its branch, Bull Run. Pegrams force is composed of Ken- tucky, Georgia, Alabama, and North Carolina troops. This informa- tion is corroborated by reports that Lieutenant Edwards got from other sources. He also reports that two weeks ago Bragg withdrew about 12,000 of his men from Tullahoma and vicinity to Chattanooga, as a feint against Kentucky, upon the l)resumption that troops would be largely detached from Rosecrans army to meet it, and this force was at Chattanooga on the 28th ultimo. The sources from which this in- formation is derived are more than ordinarily reliable. Lieutenant Edwards also reports only about 150 men at. Big Creek Gap and about 80 men near Williamsburg. There is cavalry along the railroad, from Cleveland up to Strawberry Plains, at Athens, Sweetwater, London, and Knoxville, probably 800 in the aggregate. There are two small steamers plying on Clinch River, from Kingston to Clinton Page 127 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 127 Sergt. William S. Reynolds left Cumberland Ford on Friday, the 6th day of March. Two hundred infantry and 196 cavalry and two pieces of artillery crossed Cainberland River at Mount Pierce fields, into Harlan County, February 28, and went up the river to Harlan Court-House. They were at Manchester on Saturday, March 7. [D. W.] Chenault and [II. M.] Ashby have joined Pegram, by way of Maynardville and Raccoon Valley. He says there are not more than 150 infantry at Morristown; about the same number at Russellville, Hawkins County, Tennessee, and about the same number at t~ogersville. There are about 600 men at Cumberland Gap, under General Gracie. There are about 30 cav- alry at Rogers Gap, and the same number at Oldtown. He says it is certain that Marshalls force has gone to the salt-works near Abing- don, Va. He says he has information perfectly reliable th~zt Pegrams force at Beaver Creek is not over 6,000 strong. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GJLLMORE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. MIJEFREESEOROUGH, TENN., March 10, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Ghi6f: From the late rebel papers and our scouts,lam satisfied that a serious raid of mounted men will be undertaken, by the way of Cum- berland Gap, as early as practicable. Pegram is now at Clinton, on the Clinch, collecting his men. The rebels say~~they are stronger now in our front than before the battle. The weather is one continued succes- sion of rains. We think they must intend to hold Middle Tennessee. Forage and supplies must be got, and points of storage, strongly forti- fied, filled with them. With these we can hold our position without fear from Kentucky. There every nerve should be strained to estab- lish fortified posts, covering certain important entrances and centers, and those well stored with provisions and ammunition. General Wright has probably been doing this, but, if ever the rebels enter the State, necessity will drive them to seek the large towns or die. These should be securedLouisville, Covington, and Lexington. Something shoujhi also be done f& Cincinnati while there is leisure. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General, Commandin. MIJRFREESBOROUO-H, TENN., March 10, ~ Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Your letter about Brannan, and a letter from his brother, saying that, as soon as he sent General Brannan my telegram about his orders, he would at once start, came to-day. Has General Burns resigned, and will his resignation be accepted ~ I am informed that the,rebels are constructing a wagon road across the mountains, from the East Ten- nessee Valley into North Carolina, above Knoxville, and a branch road is being graded from the Southwest Virginia and Tennessee Railroad, near Morristown, and pointing toward the gap. This atThrds further indication of a project from that stronghold into Kentucky. W. S. ROSECRANS, Ia~jor-G~neri4 Page 128 128 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. hEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CoRPs, March 10, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief cV. staff: I have just received a letter from General Davis, dated at 10 a. rn. General Davis has started for Triune. general [it. S.] Granger had arrived at Versailles. General Davis says he will camp at Triune to. night, nnless he finds out, after he gets tq Eagleville, that there is no force between him and Triune, in which case he will go to Unionville. A. McD. McCOOK, Major- General, HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 10, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Stafl~: Have just received the following dispatch from General Granger: General MCCooK: Received your order this morning, and published orders immediately to start at 7 a. m. Your messenger, with dispatches for General Davis, has just returned, report- ing that he was turned back by the enemy at tho forks of the Versailles and Eagle- vile pike. They were, no doubt, General Davis pickets, who is encamped but a mile from there. I shall return him at once, with an additional escort. My command is rationed only to include to-morrow. The strength of my command amounts to only 2,500 men and two batteries. R. S. GRANGER, Brigadier-General. I have heard nothing this morning from General Davis. A. McD. MoCOOK, Major- General. HEAJiQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, ]4arch 10, 1863. Maj. Gen. GORDON GRANGER, Franklin, Tcnn.: The following letter has been sent to General McCo~k, and is fur- nished for yonr information: MURFnEESBOROUGII, TENN., March 10, 1563. Major-General McCoou, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: GENERAL: Brigadier-General Grangers foree is supporting and covering Brig. Gen. Jefferson C. Davis. The object of the entire movement is to relieve Steedmans front, - and cut up any inferior force of the enemy close by. The main purpose accomplished, the force of General Davis and that of Brigadier-General Granger will return in sup- porting distance, Davis advance commanding both Versailles and Eaglevillo roads, and Grangers rear, near Salem. All your movements should be prompt and vigorous. General Gordon Grauger will order Sheridan to return, as soon as practicable, by a safe route, You will have charge of these movements, and will be responsible for their safe and proper execution. You will see that prompt aud continued means of communication are kept open between those troops and these headquarters. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadicr-Generai and Chief of Staff. H. TIIRALL, A8sistant Adjutant- General Page 129 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 129 HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CoRPS, In Camp, March 10, 1863. Brigadier-General DAVIS, Commanding First Division: GENERAL: Brigadier-General Grangers force is supporting and cover- ing you. The object of your expedition is to relieve Steedmans front and cut up any inferior force of the enemy close by. The main purpose accomplished, your force and that of Brigadier-General Granger will return, in supporting distance, your advance (which will be posted about 2 miles north of Versailles, at the point where the Eagleville road turns to the right) commanding both Versailles and Eagleville roads. Grangers rear near Salem. All your movements should be prompt and vigorous. A squadron of cavalry will be sent you in the morning, with which you will keep up constant communication with these headquarters. By command of Major-General McCook~ J. A. CAMPBELL, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 10, 1863. Maj. Gen. GORDON GRANGER, Franklin: The following, forwarded for your information, was received from General Steedman this morning, dated Triune, March 9, 1863: The enemy who appeared in front of my command yesterday disappeared during last night in the direction of Spring Hill, where I have no douh4~ they have gone. Major Tracy, of the First East Tennessee Cavalry, crossed the Harpeth this a. in., and traced them in that direction some 5 miles heyond College Grove. He learned that the forces consisted of portions of Wheelers and Van Dorns command, nnmber- ing some 6,000 or 7,000; that they came from the direction of Franklin, and I there- fore jndge they were the same that defeated Colonel Coburn. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General. SPRING HILL, VIA FRANKLIN, March 10, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Your dispatch received. I reported to you on my arrival here every- thing I knew of importance. I shall always do so. Van Dorns force has gone to Columbia, and I will either catch it or drive him over Duck River. I think he will make a stand at Rutherford Creek. It is storm- ing furiously, so that our march is necessarily slow. I cant learn of any force iu the direction of Raleigh or Chapel Hill. G. GRANGER, Major. General. SPRING HILL, VIA FRANKLIN, March 10, 1863. General ROSECRANS: The road from here to Chapel Hill is very bad, particularly from Raleigh Hill on. There is no passable road from Raleigh Hill to Riggs, so there will be no way to get Sheridan back, except by Franklin, Brent- 9 U UVOL XXIII~ FT I Page 130 130 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. wood, Petersburg to Triune, Eagleville, and Versailles, thence to Mur- freesborough. I will order him back the moment I dispose of Van Dorn, which I think will be to.morrow. G. GRANGER, Major. General. CROSSING OF RUTHERFORD CREEK, FouR MILES FROM COLUMBIA, Via Franklin, March 10, 18637 p. m. Major-General ROSECRANS: We are here, but with no hopes of crossing the creek; it is too high to ford. The enemy are plainly visible upon the opposite bluff. My in- formation is that they are crossing Duck River as rapidly as possible, and that they intend to fight at Colnmbia, and that they will be re-en- forced by a division of infantry from Bragg. Unless Rutherford Creek is fordable to-morrow, I shall fall back to Franklin, scouring the coun- try to the right and left with my cavalry. G. GRANGER, Major- General. RUThERFORD CREEK, VIA FRANKLIN, March 10, 1863. Major-General ROSECRAKS: Cavalry advance just reports artillery in sight, and things looking like a fight. G. GRAINGER, Major- General. CARTHAGE, March 10, 1863. Col. C. GODDARD, Asst. Adjt. Gen. and Chief of Staff, Army of the Gumberland: I could not get sufficient material here to complete my gunboat; will send it down to Nashville to-morrow, to get either baled hay or cotton. Also would like to get some heavy guns to place on it. II have two 12- pounders on this boat, and, at a short distance, it cannot be told but what it is bona fide. This only leaves four pieces of artillery here. 1 send all the other boats, except two, down at same time. If you think it advisable, I will authorize Lieutenant Patten, who has charge of this boat, to fit up another similar to this. I will need no regular gunboats here. Sunday morning I had 18 wagons, with a guard of two companies of the Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry, captured by 140 guerrillas, cavalry, just outside of my pickets. The commander of the escort, from all accounts, offered no resistance. He was a good officer, but think he must have become flurried. Owing to the non-arrival of the cavalry and gunboats, and much sickness in my camp, I shall move across the Cumberland, at least for the present, for my better safety. 1 can do nothing on this side without cavalry. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier-General Page 131 CRAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UN ION. 131 SMITIILAND, ]liiarch 10, 1863. (Received March 13.) Major-General BOSECRANS: Have sent three boats with convoy to Nashville. Captain Hurd has instructions from me to go on up to Carthage this trip, if water enough. He will communicate with you at Nashville, before starting above. As soon as repaired, I wish to make another trip up the Tennessee I~iver. Please communicate with me at Smithiand, Ky., or with Captain ilurd, at Nashville. Will be happy to render you any assistance I can. LEROY FITCH, Lieutenant- Commander. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 10, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Commanding Department of the Ohio, C1ineinnati, Ohio: GENERAL: A deliberate digest of the reports of my scouts from the vicinity of Cumberland and Big Creek Gaps, taken in connection with information derived from intercepted rebel letters, and the reports of rebel prisoners, forces upon me the conviction that a formidable raid or invasion of Kentucky, from East Tennessee, will take place before the end of the present month, unless the condition of the roads and streams should render such an enterVrise impracticable. I believe now, as I always have believed, that such a project is practicable. You will recollect that when the forces which Major-General Granger recently took from this State were leaving, I made an official communication to you on the subject. I extract from that communication as follows, under date January 23, 1863: The condition in which the District of Central Kentucky will be left by the exodus of troops soon to take place, demands the gravest consideration, and should be looked to at once. The idea that the State cannot be invaded at this season of the year, on account of the bad state of the roads, is a fallacy tending to do so much mischief that it should be altogether repudiated. I consider it perfectly practicable for mounted troops to enter the State, in small bodies, by different routes, so rapidly that, by rendezvousing on some good pike leading into the blue-grass region, they could, in a few hours after theycommenced uniting, present so formidable a front that nothing but well-disciplined mounted troops could expel them or prevent their overrunning the entire State, with the exception of a few, points held by infantry. The opinions expressed by me six weeks ago have been strengthened by recent experience and more perfect information. My firm belief is that I require more force in Central Kentucky, the garden spot of the State, and I suggest the propriety of retaining the two Michigan regi- ments that were to be exchanged for two Tennessee regiments. I also suggest that any sPare troops that may now be und& r your control be sent here. I have heard nothing of the Indiana battery ordered to re- port to me some weeks since. The battalion of Second Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, which I turned back from Frankfort while en route for Nash- ville,is still here. Why can I not have the balance of the regiment, which I understand is still in Ohio, under its colonel (Kautz). Rumors and reports from scouts fix Cluke still in the vicinity of ilazle Green. Colonel Walker will ascertain facts, and you will be informed when he reports. I ask your serious consideration upon the matters touched in this let- ter, and remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier-General, Commanding Page 132 132 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 15, 1863. Copy respectfully furnished to the Adjutant-General, headquarters of the Army, for the information of the General-in-Chief. I agree mainly in the views expressed by General Gilimore, and advise an increase of force for the protection of Kentucky, to be sent with least possible de- lay. Ten thousand men will not be too many to preserve the State from inroads and to secure its tranquillity. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. MUEFREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 11, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECE, General-in- Chief: General Wright wishes me to send forces to Mill Springs. Says if raids come into Kentucky he will want detachments from here. If the enemy do anything serious there, the worst for us would te to let these forces front us here and swing in their spare forces from the soath and east of the Alleghenies. To meet this successfully, the army should be kept in its full strength, and position held against the worst they could do, by withdrawing from Mississippi and concentrating here, or to act offensively in case they weaken on our front, and close them forever against a return out of Kentucky. Fortifications and gathering troops rapidly is the obvious work of General Wright. in either case he will need more gunboats for patrolling. W. S. IIOSECIIAKS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfrcesborough, March 11, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati: It would be impracticable at present to detach and place in such isolated position a division up at Mill Springs. I think it of prime im- portance not to weaken and cut up this army, nor interrupt its steady work of getting supplies and strengthening its l)ositiou until the enemy shows evident intentions of going out of Middle tennessee. A raid into Kentucky will not justify weakening us to such an extent as to par- alyze. Strong fortifications should be made promptly at principal l)oints in your department, and patrol boats provided to arrest the operations of a strong force. Let them go to Kentucky, and we will close the door against their return. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, March 11, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: I have just received a dispatch from General Davis, dated yesterday, 8p. m. He has gone into camp about 1 mile from Triune. Genera Page 133 CJtAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 133 Davis says Van Dorn left College Grove yesterday, coming in the direc- tion of Chapel Hill, and thinks he has put himself between Columbia and Franklin. A. MuD. MoCOOK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, In Camp, March 11, 1863. Brigadier General DAVIS, Commanding at Triune: GENERAL: General McCook directs that if, in ybur judgment, you have accomplished the object of your expedition (which was to relieve Steedmans front, and cut up any inferior force of the enemy close by), you will retire to the Salem pike, and take the position indicated in the letter of instrnctions sent you yesterday. You will fall back either to- morrow or the next day, as the position of affairs in your front, the condition of the roads, or other circumstances may determine. Report frequently to these headquarters, and keep General Granger informed of your movements. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. O1~ THE CUMBERLAND, No. 45. Murfreesborough, Tenn., March 11, 1863. I. Corps commanders will provide, by suitable orders, the means of regularly supplying forage rations and quartermasters stores to the l)atteries of their commands. IL Chiefs of artillery of corps will verify, by a personal inspection at least once a month, the inspection reports of division chiefs of artillery, and will make a special report to the chief of artillery at these head- quarters of the condition of each battery, suggesting necessary changes or improvements in equipments or ammunition. The management of battery horses will receive their special attention. III. Light batteries attached to divisions will not, as a general rule, be assigned to brigades; but those batteries now reporting to brigade commanders, will continue to do so, subject to be withdrawn by order of the divi~ion commander. IV. The batteries composing the artillery reserve will be under the command of an artillery officer assigned to that duty, who will report direct to these headquarters, subject, however, to the direction of the commanding officer in whose lines the command is placed. V. Officers and enlisted men of batteries will not be detailed on duty which will separate them from their companies, except in special cases, and by orders from these headquarters. VI. On the march, the cannoneers will not be allowed to ride on the artillery carriages, but will march by the side of their pieces, opposite their posts, nor will any baggage, save the knapsacks of the cannoneers, be carried on the carriages. Battery commanders will see to the en- forcement of this order; and they, as well as the chiefs of artillery, will cause all unauthorized articles to be thrown off. Brigade and division commanders will see that these orders are enforced Page 134 134 RY., MID. AND IX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV~ VIL No change of armament will be made in batteries without au- thority from these headquarters. VIII. After an engagement with the enemy, a full report of the same will be made by the battery commander, through the intermediate artil- lery commanders, to these headquarters, with a statement of loss or damage sustained of personnel and matiriel. By command of Major-General Ilosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. MARCH 11, 1803. Col. J. C. KELTON. Asst. A djt. Gen., Ildqrs. ef the Army, Washington, D C.: COLONEL: I have the honor to inclose, for the consideration of the General-lu-Chief, a copy of a letter, dated the 10th instant, from Brig. Gen. Q. A. Gilimore, commanding District of Central Kentucky, * which is deserving of prompt and serious consideration. The force now in ~Jentral Kentucky is the minimum for its protection during the winter, while the condition of the roads are such as to pre- clude raids or invasions in force, but will be quite insufficient for the purpose as soon as the ground becomes dry and the dirt roads practi- cable, if, therefore, an additional force of from 5,000 to 10,000 men can be spared from any other department, I earnestly recommend their being sent to Kentucky. The condition of the State is anything but satisfactory, politically, and the Union people are so very uneasy, owing to a belief iii their in- security, that it is having the effect of preventing them, to some extent, from planting their usual crops. I believe the danger to be exaggerated, yet the temptation to the rebels to exert themselves to raise a large force for this express object is very great. I forwarded a letter from Governor Robinson on this subject a few days ago. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. MARCH 11, 186$3. Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILL1~IORE, Commanding District of Central Kentucky, Lexington, Ky.: GENERAL: I was not satisfied with the manner in which the l)nrslnt of the rebels was conducted during the late raid of Cluke, and the sub- ject should receive a thorough investigation. On Tuesday night, the 24th ultimo, a portion of the mounted force left Winchester, and Colonel Runkle reported that he woifld be in Mount Sterling by midnight. His horses were represented as being compara- tively fresh, while those of the rebels were entirely broken down. He had nearly twice the force of the rebels, a part of them old troops, and I was entirely satisfied that he would successfully engage the enemy on Wednesday. Nothing of importance seems to have been effected, and his subsequent withdrawal to Paris permitted the enemy to recruit his horses while he was breakkmg down his own. You will, therefore, call upon Colonel Runkle for his report of his management of his command, and institute such other examination into Not found, but see P. 131 Page 135 CHAP. XXXV.] CO1~RESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 135 the matter as may be necessary to a full understanding of it. A copy of his report will be promptly furnished to these headquarters, as well as of any other proceedings taken in the case. The loss by Major Williams of his wagon train also calls for ilivesti- gation, if the reports that have reached me concerning the affair are true. It is stated that he moved off with his main force, leaving his train to follow under a slender guard, and that its capture was effected by as few as 7 or 8 men. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE Ouio, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 11, 1803. Brig. Gen. Q. A. GTLLMORE, Commanding District of Central Kentucky, Lexington, Ky.: GENERAL: It seems to me possible that by means of defensive works on no very great scale the city of Lexington might be made secure by a moderately strong garrison against any force the rebels will be likely to bring against it, thus relieving a part of the troops for general serv- ice, which would otherwise be needed for its protection. Similar re- marks might be made in reference to iDanville, and perhaps some of the crossings of the kentucky River. Please give me your views upon the subject. If any stout resistance is to be made south of the Kentucky River, the points of defense would seem to be Richmond and Danville. At the former, all the necessary works probably exist now, leaving only the latter to be attended to. The project for these works was con- sidered, and, I believe, decided upon while General Granger was in coin- mand of the district. Some strong points of this kind would not only add to our movable force, but give confidence to our troops and probably to the citizens. Some works may also be desirable at Mount Sterling. I have just received an answer from General Rosecrans to the propo- sition for him to send a division up the Cumberland to Mill Springs. A copy is inclosed.* I agree with him that a division at that point would be too far from support, and therefore liable to disaster, but I am less confident than he of his ability to close the door against the retreat of any force that may invade Central Kentucky. We must, therefore, depend on our own force to repel any attack. I would advise your increasing the number of your scouts, both toward East Tennessee and Virginia. Money cannot be expended more advantageously than in this way. I desire also that you send scouts in the directioni where it is rumored that political and military organizations are forming. Proper persons for such service can seldom be found here. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 11, 1863. Col. C. J. WALKER, Commanding at Mount Sterling: COLONEL: Captain Moore, with 240 men from the force at Richmond, had what he called a smart brush with a portion of Clukes force at * See p. 132 Page 136 136 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. ilazie Green on the 9th. Captured 25 prisoners and a number of horses and arms. The captain has returned to Irvine, and I bave (lirected the corn manding officer at Richmond to place him temporarily in command of the forces at Irvine, or to furnish a field officer commandant, should any question of rank arise between Moore and the officers of the Four- teenth Kentucky. I do not believe that Cluke has been re-enforced by anybody, and I want you to make the most advantageous use of your command in arresting rebels, armed and unarmed, within as large a circuit as you can with propriety control. You are authorized to em- ploy mounted citizen scouts to aid you in carrying out this order. You must at the same time use your discretion as to how much of your force you can with safety detach for this duty. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE. P. 5.Extracts from Special Orders, No. 36, of this date are herewith inclosed.* You will see that the object is to get six full companies together as promptly as possible (to go to Eastern Kentucky). The balance will be sent you at once. Lose no time in carrying this order into effect. Have you any means of getting your horses under cover ~ HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TIlE Ouio, Cincinnati, March 11, 1863. Col. L. B. PARSONS, Acting Quartermaster, Cincinna2i, Ohio: COLONEL: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 10th instant, received to-night, inclosing copies of two telegrams and a letter from Major-General Grant, requesting you to procure and send to him as speedily as practicable a supply of steamboat transportation for 20,000 men, a part of the steamers to be of the smaller class of boats. I have received, within a few days, a request from Major-General iRosecrans to aid him in the matter of his supplies, by sending him ten million rations within the next three weeks, and I have already instructed the quartermasters department here to take all the boats on the river for this transportation. Unless boats are returned here speedily from the Cumberland River, it will be impossible to fully carry out General Rosecrans wishes, and, therefore, still more impossible to do so if a portion of the boats are sent to General Grant. It is possible, however, that when General Rosecrans learns the wants of the army at Vicks- burg, he may be able to extend the time within which the subsistence may be furnished, or to diminish the quantity, and I have, therefore, telegraphed him upon the subject. I will notify you of his answer. I desire to say, as stated to you in conversation to-day, that there can be no objection to your taking some of the smaller boats here and elsewhere on the river, if you will speedily replace them by larger boats of an aggregate equivalent capacity for freight. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT. FRANKLIN, March 12, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: I have fallen back to this place from Rutherford Creek. Our cav- alry penetrated to within 1 mile of Columbia. My best information is Not found Page 137 CHAP. XXXV.] Cold~ESPONDENCt~, ETC.IINIO~. 137 that Van Dorns force hastily retreated to the south side of Duck River. None were on this side, in our front. Sheridans division, with Mintys cavalry, leave to-morrow morning for Murfreesborough. There is a rumor that a portion of Van Dorns force were unable to cross in front of Columbia, and have passed up this side of Duck River, in the direc- tion of Shelbyvi]le, to cross at Whites Bridge. I would suggest that the troops at Eagleville be pushed rapidly in that direction, to intercept them. If this rumor should prove certain, I will make a dash on Raleigh and farther. G. GRANGER, Major- General. MARCH 12, 1863. Brigadier-General PAINE, Gallatin: The general commanding is surprised to hear that you have no troops occupying the fort. You will at once occupy it with a force sufficient for its defense, and construct water-tanks, cisterns, and whatever may be necessary to make it a complete work. You will also have all your stockades occupied. J. A. GARFJELD, Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. MURPREESEOROUGH, TENN., March 12; 1863. Brigadier-General ASBOTH: Am very much obliged for your dispatch. I think Pillow may be in vicinity of mouth of Duck River with his conscripts, but Wheeler is re- ported over at McMinnville, commanding right wing of enemys cavalry. Respectfully, W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., March 12, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Commanding Department, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: GENERAL: It being officially reported to me that Forts Henry and Heiman were occupied by the rebels I have ordered an expedition to retake them. Respectfully, S. A. HURLBUT, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 12, 1863. Maj. N. H. MCLEAN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dept. of the Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio: MAJOR: I have the honor to report the return of Brigadier-General Carter to this post from his mission to headquarters Department of the Cumberland. The First and Second East Tennessee Volunteer Infantry were ready to start when the general left Nashville, the day before yes Page 138 138 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. tOHAP. XXXV terday, boats having been provided for that purpose. I request an order placing General Carter on duty in this district. A portion of Clukes force was attacked on the 9th, at ilazie Green, by a detachment of the Forty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, which I ordered out from Richmond. Twenty-five rebels and a number of horses and arms were captured without any loss on our side. Lieutenant- Colonel Wilson, commanding at Richmond, reports that the court at London was broken up by rebels on the 9th instant, but Colonel Wol- ford, at Stanford, with telegraphic communication to the front as far as Monut Vernon, and with authority and orders from me to protect this court, does not corroborate this statement. I have nothing new except reports corroborating those already for- warded to you of the contemplated invasion of Kentucky by a com- bined force at least equal to all that I have scattered through my district. I have not yet thought it proper to take the One hundred and eight- eenth Ohio oft the Kentucky Central Railroad, but would like very much to have that regiment here. Is it practicable for you to furnish from Covington adequate guards for all the bridges north of Paris, or even north of Cynthiana, to enable me to have the bulk of the One hundred and eighteenth Ohio under my own eye, without having to detachan entire regiment in its place ~ I have heard nothing of the Indiana battery yet. I have this moment received a dispatch from Nashville that the two Tennessee regiments left there yesterday by boat. The Michigan regiments are ready to start. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE. HEADQUARTERS OF TI-TE ARMY, Washington, March 13, 1863. Major.General ROSECRANS, iliurfreesborough: GENERAL: The names of yourself and others were presented to the War Department for major-generals in the Regular Army. The Secre- tary decided that he would not fill the vacancy till some general could claim it as a reward for a complete and decisive victory. This decision was brh~fiy announced to you* and others whose names had been urged. To this note you, on the 6th, retizirn an indignant answer, character- izing the announcement of the Secretarys decision as an anctioneering of honors. If this be so, the general order of the President annou.nc- ing that he would appoint brigadier and major generals only for dis- tinguished services in the field is also an auctioneering of honors, and should have incited equal indignation. Before receiving your let. ter, I had not supposed that a Government which -offered and bestowed its highest offices for military success either depreciated patriotism, en- couraged baseness, or bartered away honor. When last summer, at your request, I urged the Government to promote you for success in the field, and, again at your request, urged that your commission be dated back to your services in Western Virginia, I thought I was doing right in advocating your claim to honors for services rendered. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, - II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief See letter of March 1, p. 93 Page 139 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 139 HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Murfreesboro~tgh, March 13, 1863. Col. M. B. WALIiER, 6ommanding First Brigade, Third Division: COLONEL: You will march with your command and join Brigadier- General Steedman by the same route as directed in former order. The general directs that you make your arrangements to march as far as the termination of the Wilkinson pike to-morrow. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEG. E. FLYINT, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH AEMY CORPS, Camp on Stones River, March 13, 1863. Brig. Gen. B. S. GRANGER, Commanding Forces at Versailles, Tenn.: GENERAL: Your letter of March 12 is received, stating that there is perhaps a force of 3,000 of the enemy at Unionville. General Davis has been ordered to communicate with you, and perhaps he will decide to attack the force at Unionville, in which case General McCook directs that you act under General Davis orders and support him in all his movements.* Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. CAMPBELL, Major and Assistant Adjutant- General. LEXINGTON, Ky., March 13, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Commanding Department of the Ohio: In answer to your letter of the 11th instant. I have the honor to state: First. That Colonel Runkles statement will be forwarded to-morrow or by early train on Monday morning. The cdnduct of Major Williams in abandoning his train at Mount Sterling will be investigated, as will also the conduct of Lieutenant-Colonel [George G.] Miner, Seventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, he precipitately falling back from Richmond and sending unfounded reports to these headquarters. Second. I note your remarks in reference to the defense of my dis- trict against a raid in force. The works are already in progress at Frankfort, and I shall at once commence inexpensive works at the fer- ries over the Kentucky River. Third. I do not indorse General Bosecrans idea that a strong division at Mill Springs or vicinity would be so much isolated as to endanger it, while I have troops at Stanford and Danville, and hold llickmabn Bridge over the Kentucky. I will write more fully in a day or two. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. * This dispatch was captured by the Confederates, and is among General Polks papers Page 140 140 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., 1~t. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OHAP. XXIV. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 13, 1863. Brig. Gen. JuLIus WHITE, Louisa, Ky., via Portsmouth, Ohio: General Scammon, commanding at Charleston, W. Va., telegraphs that he expects a raid from the enemy, but is not certain of its direction. Keep on the alert. Communicate with General Scammon and the force at Ceredo, with view to mutual co-operation, and keep out scouts on your left, and also in front, upon the Pound Gap route. Dont spare money in this service; it cant be better expended. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 13, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Commanding Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that Colonel Wolfords dis- patches do not corroborate Colonel Wilsons statement that the court in London had been broken up by rebels. The court was in session on the 11th instant. There is no later news of importance from that section. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, No. 118. Washington, March 13, 1863. II * * * * * * IV. Maj. Gen. E. 0. C. Ord, U. S. Volunteers, and Brig. Gen. A. Schoepf~ U S. Volunteers, are relieved from duty on the military com- mission convened by Special Orders, No. 356, series 1862, from Head. quarters of the Army. Major-General Ord will repair to Carlisle, Pa., and report by letter to the Adjntant-General of the Army. Brig. Gen. A. Schoepf will report for dnty to Major-General Ilosecrans, command- ing Department of the Cumberland. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Halleck: L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. MUEFREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 14, 18632 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: We liave an intelligent informant from Vicksbnrg, via Mobile, who says they will fight for, bnt expect to leave, Vicksburg, and hold Port Hudson. Pemberton is there. Will re-enforce Bragg from Mississippi, if they can. They value Vicksburg, Port Hudson, and Mobile. Cant get the work done which they desire. Expect arms and ammunition from England soon. They have no fears of Charleston or Savannah. Have over 30,000 cavalry on our front, and intend to operate on ou Page 141 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 141 flanks and rear with these, backed as best they can, to get Kentucky by these operations, and weaken our front, so as to drive us. Consider this current news of plans. They have assurance of some kind that if they can recover or occupy Tennessee and Kentucky, France and England will interfere. W. S. ROSECRANS. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, March 14, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: The ordnance officers, in the reports last received state that 2 486 breech-loading carbines still remain in depot at Nashville, and 1,490 at Louisville; also that 485 revolving carbines have gone forward to Nash- ville in charge of a special messenger. There are also 3,000 pistols at Louisville depot. Are you likely to need or use the whole of them? P. II. WATSON, Assistant & cretary of War. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO. Cincinnati, Ohio, March 14, 1863. Brigadier-General SCAMMoN, Charleston, W. Va.: What of your proposed raid? Can you make it, and when; and, if not, can you get scouts or loyal men to destroy the bridges? It is very important to do this, and, moreover, the best way to stop rebel incur- sions is to take the offensive. H. G. WRIGHT, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 14, 1863. Col. BENJAMIN P. RU~KLE, Commanding at Richmond, Ky.: COLONEL: I have the honor to inclose herewith a copy of letter this day addressed to Colonel Walker, commanding at Mount Sterling. The brigadier-general commanding directs me to say that he desires you to place at Colonel Walkers disposal, at Irvine, or between Irvine and Elazie Green, depending on the conveniences of getting forage, a force of 500 or 000 men, with at least six days rations, with instruc- tions to co-operate with Colonel Walker in his operations against Colo- nel Cluke. It is believed that corn can be sent from Richmond to Irvine for the animals, and that in the vicinity of Proctor, or on the road the expedition may take, forage can be found. It may not be necessary to go to Proctor. The commanding officer must judge of this. The idea is that this command shall be placed on the road from Hazle Green to Irvine, where forage can be had, there to await instructions from Colonel Walker. I desire that Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson shall be placed in command of this expedition. He should communicate with Colonel Walker at once. It may be advisable for him to report in - person at Mount Sterling for that purpose. My opinion is that it Page 142 142 KY., MID. AND IX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXV. would be, and that he had better start as soon as these instructions are received, taking with him a small escort. Every precaution to preserve the animals and procure them forage and rest should be tiiken. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAM. M. KNEELAIND, Lieutenant and Aide-dc- Camp. (Copy sent to Col. C. J. Walker, commanding at Mount Sterling, Ky.) [Inclosure.] HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 14, 1863. Col. C. J. WALKER, Commanding ]iilioUnt Sterling: The brigadier-general commanding directs me to state that he sends you to-day two hundred and fifty stand of Enfield rifles, with accouter- ments and ammunition complete, for a portion of the Tenth Kentucky Cavalry. They go in charge of Major Purington, Second Battalion Ohio Cavalry, who is ordered to report to you, with his battalion; for duty. The general commanding has directed the commanding officer at Rich- mond to send out from Irvine an expedition to ilazie Green against Cluke. You should confer with the commanding officer of this expedi- tion at Irvine, and arrange, in an order, the details of the project. The expedition will be under your orders. Communicate with the com- manding officer at Irvine, and give instructions. The generals opinion is that the force you have now, with Major Puringtons battalion, will be ample. The expedition from Irvine will comprise 400 to 600 men, armed with rifles. You should take four or five days rations with you from Mount Sterling. The force at Irvine will not leave without orders from you. The force may advance on the road from Irvine to ilazie Green, in order to get forage, where it will await instructions. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. M. BURGER, (Japtain and Assistant Adjutant- General. CINCINNATI, 01110, March 15, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: If the present pleasant weather continues a short time, the condition of the roads and rivers will render an invasion of Kentucky by the rebels possible, and such an invasion will be likely to occur, as has been indicated in previous communications. To resist such an attempt, if on an important scale, I have not the force at my command, and therefore earnestly advise that any troops at the disposal of the Gov- ernment, say 10,000 men, be sent to Kentucky with all possible dis- patch. Cannot troops be sent here from Wisconsin or some of the other Northwestern States; if not, from the East ~? A dispatch just received from General Posecrans makes me uneasy in regard to both his position and my own. Will write more in detail by mail, but action should not be delayed on this brief statement. See my letters already forwarded. H. (1. WRIGHT, Major- General Page 143 CRAP. XXXVJ CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 143 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE Onio, Cincinnati, Ohio Mar Col. J. C. KELTON, ch 15, 1863. Asst. Adjt. Gen., fldqrs. of the Army, Washington, D. C.: COLONEL: 1 telegraphed the General-in-Chief to-day, urging the send- ing of re-enforcements to Kentucky as speedily as possible, to save the State from threatened raids on the part of the rebels, and calling his attention to previous communications upon the same subject. The force now within the State of Kentucky is the minimum for win- ter defense, while the roads and streams are impassable for any con- siderable forces, but is not sufficient for its protection after the con- dition of the country renders raids or invasions practicable. Hence the call so earnestly urged for re-enforcements. The information received touching any probable raid or invasion is very indefinite, and would scarcely be entitled to credit were it not for the fact that every raid or invasion hitherto attempted by the rebels has been foreshadowed by just such information. A dispatch just received from General Itosecrans makes me the more uneasy in regard to the condition of affairs in this quarter, and while 1 do not fully comprehend his meaning, yet the general tone of his com- munication is calculated to occasion serious fears. I therefore repeat that the force within the Department of the Ohio is not adequate to re- sist fully and efficiently any serious invasion; that I do not believe that the army of General Rosecrans as at present situated can afford adequate relief, and consequently that a re-enforcement of 10,000 men for the force in Kentucky should be sent without delay. The interests of the service demand that a much larger reserve force should be retained in Ken- tucky to support our armies in advance, and I am restrained from urging this opinion only from the fact that I am aware that no such force is at the disposal of the General-in-Chief. Whatever is at his command to the extent indicated should be sent here without delay. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT. [Inclosure.] MURFREESBOROUGH, ]Jifarch 13, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: It is of the utmost consequence that this army should neither retro- grade nor be so reduced as not to threaten the offensive. It should be fully supplied for six months in depots here and at Nashville. Every effort should be bent to keep the troops all here, and our rear covered by troops drawn from East as well as West. How comes it that the West not only fights its own battles, but sends troops East to aid them, yet we have only half the population they, have l Please stir this matter, and get troops from Wisconsin or Michigan if you cant get them from the East. Dont let this force be moved back. liOSECIIANS. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 15, 1863. - Brig. Gen. G. W. CULLUM, Chief of StajJ Ildqrs. of the Army, Washington,,D. C.: GENERAL: The recent action of the Senate, in refusing my confir- xuation as inajor-geu~ral7 of which I presume there is no doubt, can b Page 144 144 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV~. looked upon only as a condemnation of my administration of the affairs of this department, and will naturally occasion in the public mind a want of confidence which will seriously impair my usefulness in my present position. In this view of the case, I feel bound to suggest to the mili- tary authorities at Washington my removal from this command, by the assignment thereto of some one who shall fully command the con- fidence of the people and the troops in the department, and to ask that no unnecessary delay be permitted in adopting this suggestion. For the reasons above given, I believe this action should be taken, for the good of the service. Having been in command of the department since its creation, now nearly seven months, and having gained a certain knowledge of its affairs, its present resources and necessities, I trust that an expression of opinion in these respects may not be considered out of place. The Department of the Ohio, with the southern boundary of Ken- tucky as its limit toward the enemy, is the seat of active operations only when that enemy chooses to cross the border, and cannot, there- fore, be the field, except in such contingency, for the exercise of purely military talent; yet it requires, for its command, one who combines ad- ministrative ability in its most enlarged sense with military knowledge, in order to secure its proper administration. The Departments of the Tennessee and the Cumberland are more or less dependent upon it for their existence. From it they draw largely their supplies of men and material, and for this they must be, to an important degree, dependent upon the department commander. The armies under Generals Grant and Rosecrans have drawn both men and supplies, to an enormous ex- tent, from here, since I have been in command, and they must do so in the future, to the extent of their necessities and the means at disposal. To both of these officers I have sent freely, under general instructions from your headquarters, the men and means at my command. Not only have I obeyed the orders I have received in this respect, but in doing so I have followed the dictates of my own judgment. The battles for the peace and security of this department ought to be fought in ad- vance of its borders, and no exertion of mine (perhaps I may say no sacrifice of selfinterest) has been wanting to make this principle suc- cessful. I hare sent off, from time to time, as they were needed in front and were prepared for the field, the troops of the department, till there was left only enough to protect the State of Kentucky from in- roads of the enemy in the winter season, while the roads were nearly impassable, and the rivers so swollen as to be impracticable for any large force, so that at the present moment there are only some 6,000 available men in the Central District to keep off raids npou the most fertile l)ortion of the State, to protect its line of communication, and to cover the city of Cincinnati, while in Western Kentucky the numbers enoao~ed in the 1A from Louisville to the line of ~ guarding rai1roa~ Nashville, communication of General IRosecrans army, and in keeping down guer- rilla bands, with which that part of the State is infested, and in cover- ing the river frontiers of Indiana and Illinois, was, by the last return, less than 9,000 effective men. This number is too small for the real security of the State. Whenever the roads become good enough to ad- mit the march of an army, General IRosecrans, in advance of Nashville, cannot cover the State from serious invasion. So long as by his pres- ence~ he can force the rebels to keep together, it is well; but they will, ifthey do not abandon their position and invade the State, as was done last fall by Bragg, detach what they can spare from their strongly forti- fied position, and, adding to it such other troops as in their desperatio Page 145 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 145 they can raise, invade the State, either as a formidable raid or for an attempted occupation. That they will endeavor to do this I have no manner of doubt. They should do it, and, it is fair to presume, they will. Not only this, but we know that they have already a considerable force, variously reported from 6,000 to 12,000 men, in East Tennessee, brought together for this avowed object. These are said to be mounted men, and we know that their cavalry force is large and active, much superior to our own in numbers. To absolutely prevent the invasion of the State is difficult, probably impossible, except by offensive movements. The enemy can come in at a great number of points along the southern border. Commencing at Cumberland Gap, there are west of this several other gaps nearly as practicable, through two of which Kirby Smith entered last fall, and as the mountain range recedes and becomes less an obstruction, the avenues of approach multiply. it is hence impossible to thoroughly guard this frontier against inva. sion by attempting to stop these avenues, especially against an active mounted force without more troops than ar~ likely to be assigned for that purpose. We must, therefore, resort to other means for the pro- tection and quiet of the State in the possession of which the rebels take so much interest. First is the plan of offensive. It has been said that it is as easy to march south as north, for us to invade from Ken- tucky as for the rebels to invade that State. Is this so ~ The rebels in such an attempt enter a country capable of sustaining them as soon as they reach the blue-grass region, and they can stay an indefinite time, so far as supplies of forage and subsistence are concerned. We, on the contrary, on leaving that region find no such supplies as we ad- vance, and are compelled to sustain ~nr army by wagon trains. Even on reaching Knoxville nothing can be had in amount adequate to the supply of a considerable force. The country has been already swept by the rebels of its vegetable products, and they supply themselves from the rear by means of their railroads. From IDanville or Richmond to Knoxville is nearly 200 miles, over a conutry of bad roads, nearly destitute of forage and subsistence, and where everything is to be supplied by wagons from the rear. I need not say that in such a march, over so long a route, a wagon will scarcely take the forage necessary for its teams, leaving nothing for subsistence, am- munition, camp equipage, & c. I look upon an invasion of East Tennessee by any of the direct routes through Kentucky as an impossibility, for the reasons above assigned, certainly before the season becomes advanced enough to supply some green forage. Raids by a mounted force are practicable, being only for limited occupation, and constitute all that can be accomplished in the offensive way. For the defensive, two l)olicies may be adopted. First, to close all the entrances. This I have said was impossible with any force likely to be provided for the purpose. Second, by taking up a line just within the edge of the blue-grass country, where the force can be readily sup- plied, where it can watch the entrance of the enemy, and concentrate against him, after he has been forced to a long march over the inter- vening mountains and sterile country, with his men and a~umimals broken down by their toilsome journey, and when they Will be taken at a dis- advantage by comparatively fresh troops, always keeping to the front scouting parties to give early intelligence of the enemy, who shall re- turn frequently, to be rel)laced by fresh parties. This has been the policy adopted thus far with the slender force available. 10 it itVOL XXIII, PT i; Page 146 146 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. rOHAP. XXXV. The true system undoubtedly is to combine with the (lefensive an offensive policy of raids, which shall annoy and distract the enemy. For this the present force is insufficient, as, indeed, it is insufficient for the protection and quiet of the State at all, except during the season of bad roads and high rivers4. An addition of 10,000 men would prob- ably make this system of operation practicable, and they should be sent ~romptJy, as already recommended. What is, however, wanting, in my judgment, taking into considera- tion not only the conditiou of Kentucky, but also the necessities of the armies in advance, is a large reserve force of some 50,000 men located within the State, to secure its quiet and to provide a force from which the armies in front may draw their needful re-enforcements. No better location than Kentucky can be found for such a camp, which may com- bine with its duties in the defense of the State that of a camp of in- struction, from which may be sent from time to time expeditions against the flanks and rear of the enemy. I would, therefore, earnestly advise the prompt establishment of such a camp at the earliest day. It will be an excellent school for the conscripts to be raised under the late law, from which they may be sent to the field prepared to render good service as soldiers. Very respectfujly, your obedient servant, H. G. WRIGHT. MARdH 17, 1863. P. S.Since commencing the above, my telegram to you recom- mending the assignment of some other officer to the command of the (lepartment has been sent. The completion of this communication has been delayed somewhat on account of other and pressing calls upon my time. MURFREESBOROUGH, TKNN., March 16, 18639 p.m. His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States: The Secretary of War telegraphed after the battle of Stones River: Anything you and your command want you can have. I asked that paymasters, like other staff officers, should serve with the troops in the field. It was not granted. I then asked as a personal favor that my commission should date from December, 1861. It was not granted. I then asked that Major Lamed, chief paymaster of this department, might be left here, and not removed, as I have reason to believe he has been, to gratify the spleen of Colonel Andrews, who hates him on ac- count of his dislike of the 01(1 Colonel Lamed. That was refused. When I asked that the major might stay to expedite the payment of the troops, Major Terrell being then sick, that was not granted. Now I find an aide has been appointed, whom, having once recommended, I requested not to be appointed, because he went off on a spree the very night after I told him I had recommended him, hoping that he would at least quit drinking. After telegraphing the withdrawal, and explaining to his brother- in-law, Col. Domiu Piatt, the reason, I nominated H. S. Thoms, esq., a young lawyer of Cincinnati, who, paying his own way, served at the battle of Stones River with as much gallantry and effect as any one of the staff. This request was disregarded, and an aide appointed in spit Page 147 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 147 of my request. I am not covetous of personal favors. I have never yet made one request in which the public interest was not in my judg- ment first consulted; but I hate injustice, and regret that it is a duty I owe to the Government to lay these facts before you, asking that from the chief himself which for some reason seems not elsewhere to be ac- corded me. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MIJRFREESBOROUGH, TENN March 16, 186311 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: The colonels of the Fourth Missouri and First Wisconsin Cavalry have requested to be assigned to this department. This request is for- warded and approved by General Davidson, who says these regiments are at Iron Mountain, with but little to do, and thinks they can be spared without injury to the service. I am in great need of cavalry, and I respectfully ask that these regiments be sent to me. W. S. liOSECRANS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, March 16, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Washington: GENERAL: By direction of the Secretary of War, you will resume command of the Ninth Army Corps, and immediately iclieve General II. G. Wright of the command of the Department of the Ohio. One division of the Ninth Army Corps will be left, for the present, in the command of General Dix, and the other two divisions will immediately proceed to the Department of the Ohio. You will arrange with the Quartermaster-General for transportation. This order will be show:i to General Dix, as authority for detaching the two divisions from his corn- mand. As soon as you have made the proper arrangements, you will repair to Cincinnati and assume command of the department, leaving the officer next in rank to superintend the movement of the troops. These instructions will at present be regarded as confidential. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 16, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Miurfreesborough, Tenn: You must permit me, if possible for you to do so, to keep the two Michigan regiments awhile, and also the Second Ohio Cavalry, or Ken- tucky will be overrun, without my having the means to prevent it. A few more days of this fine weather, and the roads will be practicable for the enemys movements into Kentucky, and these troops are abso- lutely indispensable here. The One hundred and sixth and One hu Page 148 148 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. dred and eighth Ohio are nearly ready, but their numbers are small about 500 in all. I could make good use of them as guards on the Lexington Railroad. They will be of little service in the field. The invasion of Kentucky, as soon as the roads dry up, is certain, in my judgment, unless an adequate force is sent here to prevent it. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. MURFREESBORoUGH, March 10, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati: Keep all you can get, and get all you can, but remember it is of much less consequence that Kentucky should suffer a raid than that this army should be paralyzed or defeated. Let Kentucky raise her 20,000. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MuRFREESBoRoUGH, March 16, 1-863. General HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: The way to stop the raid into Kentucky is to prepare to invade East Tennessee ; threaten in several directions and you will scare them. You ought to move your troops up to Jamestown, if possible. It is as easy to move south as north, and you can get provisions by river if you push at once. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 16, 1863. Lieut. Col. H. B. WILSON, Commanding Forces at Richmond: COLONEL: I send you the substance of a dispatch received this after- noon from Colonel Wolford. The mail-carrier from London just arrived; reports from 1,000 to 1,200 rebel cavalry from Virginia at Manchester. The mail-carrier went within 4 miles of that place and was turned back. They are expected in London to-night. Court is in session in London at present. Two very suspicious characters came in here last iiight, and, after calling on a friend to Jeff., they retreated. I desire you to send scouts at once, and asccrtain if this report be correct. If a force advances from London toward Richmond that you cannot with certainty whip, order in the force from Irvine to join you~ I have directed Colo- nel Wolford at Stanford, to keep himself and me informed, and to fight at his discretion, if necessary, calling on the regiment at Danville for support. I dont believe that a rebel force is approaching London equal iu strength to your force at Richmond or Colonel Wolfords at Stanford. If they advance toward Stanford, Colonel Wolford is abli to take care of them; if they advance toward Richmond, I expect you to do the same thing. Report facts to me often. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, - Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General, Comman~ling Page 149 Ca& p. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 149 CAIRO, March 16, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: Recent instructions have been given to Captain Fitch by Admiral Porter, through me. He is now up Tennessee River, to carry them out. There can be no difficulty about the convoy of transports, provided they all assemble at the time appointed by Captain Fitch, and those at Nash- ville unloaded and ready to retnrn with him on his arrival there. Cap- tain Fitch reports to me that effort is being made to purchase arms and equip more boats, to re-enforce those now on the Tennessee and Cum- berland Rivers. A. M. PENNOCK, Fleet Commander and Captain. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, March 17, 186310.10 a. in. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: Your telegram of yesterday just received. I write you more fully than I could communicate by the wires. A; LINCOLN. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND Murfreesborough, Xenn, March 17 [1], 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO 0-. WRIGHT, Gincinnati: Your dispatch received. I answer your last question first. I think you are indignant. I was under the impression that you had 12,000, under Gillmore. As to the occupation of Mill Springs, the saf& ty of any force on the other side of the Cumberland depends on the power of this army for offensive action. I had hopes of something from those 20,000. Kentuckians. My apprehensions from raids into Northeastern Kentucky are not great if they are confined to that region. I think this pawn ought not to move back. Keep me posted, and we will work together. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. SMITHLAND, March 17, 1863. Maj. 0-en. W. S. ROSI~CRANS: General Asboth and myself have been up the Tennessee. Made a clean sweep of all flats, ferries, and scows, and returned this morning. Two gunboats will patrol the Tennessee constantly up to head of navi- gation. LEROY FITCH, Lieutenant Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ WASHINGTON, No. 1. March 17, 1863. In pursuance of orders from the Secretary of War, the undersigned assumes command of the Ninth Army Corps. Preparations will at once be made for moving the two divisionsSturgis and Getty~s.* Willeoxs Gettys division remained in the 1)epartment of Virginia. Page 150 150 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CaAP. ~~XXV~ division will, for the present, be detached, and remain in the command of Major-General Dix. Major-General Parke will at once proceed to Newport News and take command of the two divisions, and make the necessary preparations and arrangements for carrying out his verbal instructions. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLUMBUS, Steamer Bostona, No. 2, off Fort Ileiman, Ky., March 17, 1863. (Via Paducali, Ky., March 18.) TVlaj. Gen. STEPHEN A. HURLEUT, Commanding Sixteenth Army Corps, Memphis, Tenn.: In obedience to your ord& s, I reoccupied Fort ileiman on the 14th, in the morning. The rebels fired previous to our landing, but the first shell from the gunboats made them run. I left the Third Minnesota and the One hundred and eleventh Illinois Volunteers, with two pieces of artillery and two companies of cavalry, as garrison, in command of Cob- nel Griggs, with proper instructions, while I myself proceeded with five companies of infantry and two companies of cavalry on the steam. boat Bostona, in company with three gunboats, up the river as far as near Perryville, above mouth of Duck River. All the country from there to Florence is overflowed. Rebel deserters, crossing at Perryville on the 15th (evening), brought the news of three days fighting near Colum- bia, Tenn., ending in the total defeat of Van Dorn by iRosecrans. May it be so. On returning, I fonnd, yesterday afternoon, at Runnelsbnrg, a camp deserted by rebel cavalry, the fires still burning. Last night my boat, detained destroying and sinking fiat-boats, was fired upon from the bluff at Parkers Landing. I brought four fiat-boats and ten skiffs down to Fort ileiman, and destroyed eight flat-boats aud three canoes. The conscription and organization of rebel forces in the counties of Kentucky and Tennessee west of the river is entirely broken up b& Gen- eral Sullivans co-operation. The rebel Major Blanton, who had over 200 men here, crossed over on the day of my arrival at Sandy Landing. I will return to-morrow to Cohmbus by land, with two companies of regular cavalry, with the view to establish posts, in addition to those at Clinton and Benton, at Mayfield and Murray, thus making a chain of communication to control properly this portion of Kentucky. Capt. LeRoy Fitch, commanding third division light-draught flotilla, will efficiently co-operate for the future. The gunboats Saint Clair and Robb will commence to-morrow to run np and down the Tennessee, con- trolling all crossings. ASBOTH, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 18, 1863. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General U. S. Army: GENERAL: I have the honor herewith to transmit a monthly return of Fourteenth Army Corps, Department of the Cumberland, for month of December, 1862, called for by the %ileneral-in-Chief, February 23, ultimo, which communication was not received until the 5th instant Page 151 CH~. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 151 which will explain the apparent delay in its not being forwarded at an earlier date.* I also inclose a stateixient of the stations of the troops reported in this return during the battle of Stones River. I The Anderson Cavalry, Fifteenth Pennsylvania, is not reported on this return, as no reports had been received. Three hundred of the regiment were in the battle; the remaining 700 were under guard at Nashville, for mutiny. The statement shows an aggregate of 42,500 engaged on December 31. Two additional brigades arrived on the night of the 31st, which participated in the battle during the succeeding days. I have the honor to remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. BOSECRAKS, Major- General, Commanding. PADUCAH, March 18, 1863. Brigadier-General SULLIVAN, Commanding: I have to thank you for the efficient co-operation of your cavalry. The conscription and organization of rebel forces in the counties of Kentucky and Tennessee west of the river is broken up. I have re - occupied Fort ileiman, and leave a sufficient garrison there, Col. C. W. Griggs commanding. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. CINCINNATI, OHIO, March 19, 18633 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: I had taken all the boats on the river for General Ilosecrans to supply his necessities, and they are not sufficient. General Hovey, now here on part of General Grant, represents his necessities for steamers as of the most pressing urgency. Shall I use my judgment in sending part of the boats turned over to General IRosecrans service to General Grant~? Please answer at once. H. G. WRIGHT, Major-General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 19, 18636.30 p. m. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: Use your own judgment, and send to General Grant all the boats you can. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 19, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Commanding Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio: GENERAL: My last advices from East Tennessee leave very little doubt in my mind that the project of invading Kentucky with a large See Series I, Vol. XX, Part II, p. 283. I Not foun Page 152 152 RY., MID. AND K ThNN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. t~HA~. Xx~V. rebel force has been very materially modified within the last week or ten days. Pegrams force has been greatly diminished by detachments sent to Krroxville and North Carolina; and I doubt if the enemy ex- pect to gain possession during the approaching summer of any of the best portion of this State. I send to-morrow a strong scouting party toward the gaps, to sup. press bands of prowling rebels, distribute ammunition to the Union men among the mountains, and gain additional information. I expect to see you next Monday. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q~ A. GJLLMORE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. [Indorsement.] HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, March 25, 1863. Copy of General Gillmores letter and inclosed copy of his telegram, received at the same moment, are respectfully referred to the Assistant Adjutant-General He General-in-Chief. adqnarters of the Army, for the information of the The letter and telegram will explain the vagueness of the informa- tion on which I am compelled to act. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. [Inolosure.] LEXINGTON, Ky., March 21, 1863. iVtaj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati: Colonel Wolford says 3,500 rebels are at Stigalls Ferry, on the Cum- berland, ready to cross. I shall re-enforce him with four regiments of infantry. Send forward immediately all the troops you can spare. Wolford will fight them. Carter or myself will go to the front at once. GILLMORE. LOUISVILLE, March 19, 1863. Maj. ~Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: Dispatch received from Lebanon says that Lieutenant [William] Bolen, just from Jamestown, says 400 rebels crossed Cumberland River at Rowena yesterday, and large force reported on the other side. Lieu- tenant-Colonel Boyle was sent in that region with battalion, but snp- pose he has gone up the Cumberland on this side. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. Brig. Gen. J. T. BOYLE: CINCINNATI, March 19, 1863. If rebels have crossed at Rowena, with designs of raid, they will prob- ably advance by way of Columbia, and thence, by Campbellsville, to Leb- anon or by Greensburg to the railroad. As soon as you get definite information of their movements, if as above supposed, draw back the force at Glasgow to ii~tercept at Greensburg or Campbellsville, if you are strong enough and in time; and, if not, by most practicable route to their left, so as to combine your force higher np to cover Lebanon an Page 153 CHAr. XXXV.] COI~ESPONDENCE, BTC.UNION. 153 the railroad, and withdraw any of the Ninth Kentucky at Lebanon. I dont believe in any serious raid in this weather, and any small one must be crushed. Keep me advised, and warn your mounted troops to be ready to move on shortest potice. Advise Gilimore of any movement. I have no infantry regiment to give you iu place of the Thirty-fourth, but you can exchange it f~r any other in your district. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. LOuISVILLE, March 19, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: Rebels captured passenger train this afternoon near Mitchellsville, Tenn. Colonel Streight had men on the train and gave fight. Were fighting at last accounts. General Jndah telegraphs he had sent 200 re-euforcements. Train thrown off the track. I am more than anxious to have an additional regiment here. It is important. Can Colonel [John S.] Casement come0 J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 53. f Murfreesborough, Ienn., March 19, 1863. I. All commanders of posts in this department and every officer com- manding an outpost, scouting party, or expeditionary force will here. after, when not absolutely impracticable, forward a daily report, by telegraph, courier, or by mail, direct to these headquarters, containing a summary of all movements of the enemy in their vicinity, and of all important information which they may have gathered from deserters, prisoners, citizens, or other sources. They will also forward all letters and pa.pers from rebel sources which may fall into their hands. Daily reports must be made, even though only to state that nothing of in. terest has transpired. Enterprising officers can greatly enhance the interests of the service by diligently using the means of informatioii within their reach. The instructions in regard to direct reports to these headquarters are not to be nnderstood to interfere with the customary reports from officers to their immediate commanders. Such reports will be made as heretofore. II. All regiments and batteries serving in this department who have not on file at their headquarters perfect copies of their muster-in rolls will immediately apply to the adjutants-general of their States for certi- fied copies. If they cannot be obtained from that source, application will be made to the Adjutant-General of the Army, accompanied by a statement that unsuccessful application has been made to the State au- thorities. Should any muster-in rolls be hereafter lost or destroyed, immediate steps will be taken, as herein indicated, to replace them. III. Maj. W. II. Sidell, Fifteenth U. S. Infantry, is relieved from duty as acting assistant adjutant-general, but will continue on duty at Nash- ville, Tenn., as mustering and disbursing officer. IV. Lieut. W. L. Porter, Fifty-sixth Ohio Volunteers, and Lieut. James K. Reynolds, Sixth Ohio Volunteers, are announced as acting aides-de- camp to the general commanding, and will be respected accordingly. By command of Major General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 154 154 KY., MID. AND E. TRNN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV~ MURFREESBOROUGH, TEKN., March 20, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Our depots and defenses are being pushed forward here, with about 4,000 men daily at work. We occupy Triune by a strong force, well intrenched. All Grangers command, except Crooks brigade and four regiments of cavalry, at Franklin, where they are strongly intrenching. We are pushing forward supplies to Nashville, but, from the unfre- quency of convoys and want of transports, we are somewhat delayed. Our great want here is cavalry. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. LouIsVILLE, March 20, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: No further news from Columbia. Have strong scouts out in the direction of Cumberland River. Twenty-five guerrillas stopped pas- senger train on Nashville road yesterday below Bowling Green, but were driven off by a squad of Colonel Smiths men, who are still pur- suing. Telegraph cut between Bowling Green and Gallatin. Rebel prisoners taken by Ninth Kentucky Cavalry say the State will be immediately invaded by Breckinridge and Morgan. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier. General. Ab8tract from return of the Dcpartment of the Gumberland, Maj. Gen. William S. Ro8e- crane, U. S. Army, comrnanding,for March 20, 1863. Present for duty equipped. a Present for ~ duty. a ~ Infantry. Cavalry. Artillery. Command. ,~ - - - U; .5 O 8 ~C ~ a o - a a au ~ a a ~ a o ~ -~1 0 ~ 11 General headquarters 44 572 857 16 378 Fourteenth Army Corps 1,560 26,569 34,713 1,386 23,584 84 1,448 41 1, 388 86 Twentieth Army Corps. 763 12,705 16,419 714 11,686 13 273 31 869 41 Twenty-first Army Corps 725 12,308 15,916 672 10,869 29 1, 084 56 Grangers command 527 8,809 11,861 24 Nashville 106 2,211 2,634 78 1,394 1 30 13 355 29 Gallatin 136 2.399 3, 119 107 2,055 1 69 4 Clarksvile 91 1,461 2,203 46 725 10 205 2 79 4 Fort Donelson 115 2,085 2,804 55 1,081 29 500 5 154 15 Engineer troops 25 578 632 5 211 13 Detached artillery 5 211 232 - Detached cavalry 356 5,660 7,579 321 4,786 1 32 - - - Total 4,453 75, 568 98,969 3,074 51,770 458 7,242 128 4,241 272 MURFREESEOROUGH, TENN., March 21, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: You will observe, from our tn-monthly [return], hoW utterly inade- quate is our effective cavalry forcenot half of what is allowed b Page 155 CHAP. XXX~T.] CO1~RESPONDENCE, E~C.1TNION. 155 writers for the proportion to the other arms in a permanent fortifica- tion. Not oneThurtli, perhaps not one-sixth, of the opposing force. If you could spare me the Fonrth Missouri Cavalry, from near Iron Mountain, and Merrills Horse, from the Army of the Potomac, it would do some good. Cannot it be done? W. S. IIOSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESI3OROUGII, TENN., March 21, 186312 midnight. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant- General: Captain 1)ickson. assistant adjutant-general, reports that our mail train from Louisville, which was thrown from the track and very nearly captured by 40 or 50 rebels, about 30 miles south of Bowling Green, was rescued by a detachment of the One hundred and twenty-ninth Illi- nois, which was guarding the water-tank a couple of miles south of that point. They [the rebels] had been robbing the express ear, and got hold of the mail. It was mostly recovered, but as the matter from Washing- ton was less than usual, some apprehension is felt lest a part may have been abstracted. Would it not be well to have copies of any letters from your department, sent at such dates as to have been probably in that mail, forwarded ~ W. S. IIOSECRANS, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 21, 18631.45 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: No restriction is placed on your mounting infantry, and cavalry arms and equipments are sent to you as fast as they can be procured; but it is believed that you weaken your force by mounting too many. Mounted infantry are neither good infantry nor good cavalry. 11. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 21, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Am much obliged for removing restriction as to mounting infantry. The restriction was put on by the Secretary of War when he refused to mount my light battalions, as I understood. Should only mount as I first proposed, arid hope their places will be speedily filled by con- scripts. W. S. IROSECRAKS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, Murfreesborough, March 21, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD: I have just returned from the front. General Davis is very hand- somely posted, with General Sheridan within a half-hours march of him. Everything is in excellent shape, and the front is now quiet Page 156 156 KY., MID. AND Th TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (OnAP. XX~V. The cavalry posted behind Stones River allowed a hundred cavalry to come within about 50 yards of their camp. A. MoD. MoCOOR, Major- General. FRANKLIN, March 21, 1863. General W. S. ROSEORANS: All quiet in front. No movement of the enemy reported. The Eight- eenth and Twenty.second Michigan, en route from Kentucky, have always belonged to me. I hope you will assign them to my command again. G. GRANGER, ______ Major- General. HDQRS. FIRST DIVISION, TWENTIETh ARMY CORPS, Bolivar, Tenn., March 21, 1863Sunrise. Col. G. P. THRIJSTON, Chief of Staff, Twentieth Army Corps: COLONEL: The pickets are all quiet on my front in the direction of Versailles and the road leading to Middleton from this place. A little skirmishing has been opened since daylight on my extreme left, near Stones River. It is now subsided. About 200 cavalry reported at day- light, and I have sent them out on the Middleton road. As soon as I receive a report from them, I will communicate it. Yours, truly, JEF. C. DAVIS, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TILE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 21, 1863. Major-General THOMAS: GENERAL: Heavy rebel cavalry force on right of Shelbyville pike and Widow Garaways. Better have pickets warned and camp in order. Very respectfully; your obedient servant, WILLIAM MoMICHAEL, Major and Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 21, 1863. Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: Are you sure enemy are in large force opposite Somerset, or is it only a rebel report to occasion annoyance ~ Konkles battery and One hundred and sixth and One hundred and eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, both small, proceed to Lexington at once. Force could not be sent up Cumberland, on account of want of transportation and time, even if General Rosecrans would consent. He has refused already. Take Motts regiment off railroad, except small garrison at stockades if necessary, and I will send a small force from here to replace them. Boyles dispatch gives from 3,000 to 5,000 as the enemys numbers, and these have been always exaggerated. H. G. WRIGHT, Major-General, Gon~manding Page 157 CaAI~. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 157 LEXINGTON, March 21, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT: Colonel Wolford telegraphs from Stanford this evening that no euemy has crossed the Cumberland yet. The small Ohio regiments have arrived. Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General. P. 5.Operator says they have later news to the effect of rebels crossing and capturing 8 of our pickets. LOUISVILLE, March 21, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati, Ohio: The steamer IDunlieth is here, ready to start for Memphis and Vicks- burg, served with order from you to report to General Hovey at Mount Vernon. Could it not be allowed to go on with the sanitary stores with which it is needed by General ilovey ~ The sanitary board is anxious about it. It is reported to me tliat she has papers from General Grant exempting her from seizure, for purpose of bringing sanitary stores. Answer. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. LEXINGTON, illiarch, p1, 1863. Maj. Gen. HORATIO G. WRIGHT, Cincinnati: I again urge the sending of a division of troops with gunboats up the Cumberland River. Enemy are in force on river opposite Somerset. Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General. CARTHAGE, TENN., March 21, 186.3. General JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, ]lifurfreesborough: I cannot send daily reports, as I have only a few horses, and it takes all of them to escort the mail down one day and back the next. I can- not establish a courier line unless I have cavalry to keep the enemy from coining on this side of the river. The rebels have taken all the horses from this section of the country, except old brood-mares, fillies, & c. Were my men mounted on these, in any movement requiring expe- dition, I would have to dismount and go afoot. I was never completely beat out before, but I have to acknowledge that I can do nothing against this cavalry with my infantry. I cannot entrap them in any possible way, for they have their spies and scouts all over this country, and I can make no movement without their being apprised of it before I can get to them with my infantry, and then, if it is not to their advantage to fight me, they get out of the way. They have no baggage or trains to detain them from making rapid movements. I have seventy days complete rations here, 150 rounds of ammunition for small-arms, and 200 rounds for battery. I sent boat up the river yesterday, 43 miles; returned this evening Page 158 158 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. bringing some 500 bushels of corn and 600 bushels of wheat. The boats were attacked last night or this morning by several hundred cavalry. They did no damage. There are no supplies on the south side of the river amounting to anything. Who is Tinker Dave Beatty 0 What amount of supplies shall I accumulate here l I can get no answers to my dispatches to you. The boats leave in the morning for Nashville. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- (Thneral. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, No. 13. Murfreesborougli, March 21, 1863. The following-named officers are annouiiced on the staff of the major- general commanding the Fourteenth Army Corps: Lient. Col. George E. Flynt, assistant ad.jutant.general and chief of staff; Licut. Col. A. von Schrader, assistant inspector-general; Lient. Col. A. J. Mackay, chief quartermaster; Lieut. Col. J. R. Paul, chief commissary; Maj. William E. Lawrence, chief of artillery; Surg. William Clenden in, med- ical director; Maj. 0. A. Mack, senior aide-dc-camp; Capt. J. P. Wil- lard, aide-dc-camp; Capt. Sanford C. Kellogg, aide-dc-camp; Col. J. G. Parkhurst, Ninth Michigan Volunteers, provost-marshal, commanding provost guard; First Lient. J. D. Barker, First Ohio Cavalry, acting aide-dc-camp, commanding escort; signal officers, acting aides-dc-camp, First Lient. J. L. Hollopeter, Forty-ninth Ohio Volunteers; First Licut. J. S. Lutz, Tenth Indiana Volunteers; Second Lieut. A. K. Taylor, Third Ohio Volunteers; Second Licut. G. W. Landrum, Second Ohio Volun- teers; Second Lient. T. J. Kelly, Tenth Ohio Volunteers; Second Lieut. William Quinton, Nineteenth Illinois Volunteers; Second Lieut. J. II. Connelly, Thirty-seventh Indiana Volunteers; Second Lient. John Bach- tell, Fifteenth Ohio Volunteers, and Second Lient. II. C. Jones, Eight- eenth Ohio Volunteers. By order of Major-General Thomas: GEO. E. FLYNT, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff. FRANKLIN, March 22, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: My pickets have just captured two of Van Borns scouts. From them I learn that llindman is 2 miles this side of Spring Hill; that Wheeler is to advance upon Triune. Morgan is also turning your left. The combined movement of their columns is intended upon your communi- cations with Nashville, and a movement into Kentucky. It is not their object to attack either Franklin or Triune, but to pass rapidly between them. Wheeler and Van Born, it is believed, are supported by infantry. Cant we draw them in and gobble them up ~ I give you these reports for what they are worth. There can be no lotibt but that import ant movements are being made. G. GRANGER, Jiflajor- Genera( Page 159 CHAP. XXXV.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 159 FRANKLIN, March 22, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. IROSECRANS: I have reliable information that Van Dorn, with his whole force, is again at and in the vicinity of Spring Hill. I have two reportsone saying that this movement was ordered by Bragg, to cover his retreat from Tullahoma; the second report, that it is a combined movement upon Murfreesborough. I am inclined to doubt this latter report, unless their forces from Knoxville and Hawkins County afe already moving into Kentucky. If this be true, it is quite probable that a partial demonstration will be made along our entire front. So far as my outer front is concerned, our cavalry will disclose it to-morrow. I would again suggest that one of Mitchells brigades, with a battery, be posted at Brentwood, and that Steedman be held in readiness to support me, if necessary. G. GiRANGER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 22, 1863Midnight. Brig. Gen. JA~u~s B. STEEDMAN: It is just reported by telegraph from Major-General Granger, at Frank- lin, that the rebel forces are advancing upon him from Spring Hill, and that this is but a part of a general movement against you, and perhaps against our whole front. Another report says that it is the purpose of ~ communications and aid the movement into Kentucky. The danger is, no doubt, exaggerated, but there is quite probably some such movement intended by the enemy. Keep open the communication with us and with Franklin. Get three days cooked rations ready, and prepare for a movement. You may be called to aid Granger, and, on the other hand, it may be necessary for you to fall back on Nolensville or La Vergue. Put yourself in perfect readiness for immediate operations in any direction, or fighting where you are. Find out what is in your front and flanks, and let us hear from you often. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier-General and Chief of I~taff. LOUisVILLE, March 22, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: General Fry telegraphs from Stanford that 700 rebel cavalry are mov- ing in direction of Hustonville and 700 in direction of Stanford. Colo- nel Hoskins telegraphs from Lebanon 2,000 rebels at Somerset and 5,000 on other side of the river. I do not consider the latter reliable. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, 6~incinnati, Ohio, March 22, 1863. Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: Boyle telegraphs me, as coming from Fry, that 700 rebels are moving in direction of Hustonville and 700 on Stanford. Have justructed Boyl Page 160 1(30 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. to send the Ninth [Kentucky] Cavalry to Dauville if report is confirmed. Get your mounted men together, so as to be able to operate in mass. Have you any intelligence from Mount Sterling 0? H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 22, 1863. Col. BENJMIIN P. IRUNKLE, Richmond: In reply to your dispatch of yesterday, the brigadier-general coin- manding directs me to say that the guards at the Boonesborough, Clays, and Tates Creek Ferries were sent there to erect defenses, and should not be taken away. Order them to carry out their instructions from Captain [Thomas B.] Brooks, engineer of this district. Dispatches just received from Paris indicate that at least one-half of Clukes force has doubled on Colonel [C. J.] Walker, returned to Mount Sterling, and captured the ineffectives and baggage which the colonel left there. Send another courier (or two of them with duplicate dis- patches) after Colonel Walker and Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson, with my orders to returu. They can accomplish nothing where they are. Unless there be strong reasons to the contrary, the whole force (Walkers and Wilsons) should return to Richmond by way of Irvine. The force at Irvine should come in with them, with the exception of a small force to guard the ferries and keep the boats on the north side of the river. If Clukes band at Mount Sterling attempts to escape, it will be by way of the Kentucky ferries. Look out for them, and forward these orders to Colonels Walker and Wilson without delay. The rebels have crossed the Cumberland, and the Somerset operator has agaiu run away. Keep Clay~s Ferry in order, and be ready to move at a moments notice. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAM. M. KNEELAI~D, Lieutenant and Aide-dc-Camp. MIJRFREESBOROUGII, ]Jifarch 22, 1863. Major-General MCCooK: General Granger, from Franklin, reports that Van Dorn, with his whole force, is at Spring Hill; that some reports are that a combined movement is to be made on our whole front, and some say a movement to cut our rear and get into Kentucky. Whatever it may be, it is welt to be prepared. Order your troops to have hereafter on hand in haversacks three days rations, and have your stores and transportation in order for moving your camp and for battle. Notify Johnson and Sheridan, who might push a reconnoitering party down your front on Shelbyville pike to-morrow. If there is anything important, it will develop itself early. Be on your guard. W. S. ROSECRANS, ______ Major- General. MUREREESBOROUGH, ]Jliarch 23, 1863. Maj. Gen. GORDON GRANGER, Franklin: You will see that your position is to be held against any but an over- whelming force, which I see no reason to expect on that front. Shoul Page 161 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESP& NDUNCE, ETC.UNION. 161 rather suppose this is a threat on you, to cover a move on the river at Harpeth Shoals, which you may be obliged to punish, having Steed- mans aid if it can be so managed. See that your communications to the rear and with Steedman are good, as well as with us here. If it becomes evident that you are advanced npon by a force you cannot resist, develop that force as fully as possible, and retire, when obliged to do so, on Nashville, with the greatest steadiness and persist- ency, leaving nothing for them to capture. W. S. HOSECHAKS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH Aru~iy CORPS, March 23, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD: Dispatch received. Johnson and Sheridan will be notified immedi- ately of Van IDorns whereabouts, and will be prepared. Johnson is at Salem with two brigades. Will carry out orders, and be on guard. A. MoD. MoCOOK, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 23, 18631.35 a. m. Brig. Gen. T. J. WooD, Commanding Twenty-first Corjps: GENERAL: A telegram has been received from Major-General Gran- ger, stating that a large rebel force is advancing upon Franklin, and that he has learned from scouts and prisoners that this is part of a movement along our whole front; that Morgan is to turn our left flank, while Van Dorn attempts Franklin. It is impossible to say now how much credit is to be attached to these reports, but there is enough probability in them to demand great vigilance on our part. It is sup. posed that these movements have more special reference to Kentucky than to this army; and it is not improbable that a considerable force may be moving around our left to enter that State. The general com- manding desires you to inform General ilazen of these reports, and direct him and all other commanders of your corps at a distance from camp to hold themselves in readiness for any possible emergency. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. CARTHAG-E, IENN., March 23, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, Mmfreesborough, Tenn.: My boats were attacked as they went down, by guerrillas, and, in fact, they are fired into almost every time they leave here. I send an expe- dition down to llartsville and vicinity to-night. I understand there is a force there on the watch for my mail. Should the whole proceedings of ~ court-martial be sent to the conu~ 11 Ji~ R-----VOL Ii Page 162 162 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. manding general for him to promulgate, or only select those cases that I cannot approve, such as the dismissal of commissioned officers, & c. l A few of my men have straggled out in the country since I first ar- rived here, and have got citizens to give them pa~oles, and then have gone on home. What can be done with those cases ~ Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. NASHVILLE, March 23, 1863. General JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Tuesday, 17th, gunboat Orient left Nashville for Carthage. She went as convoy to the steamers Commerce, Lizzie Martin, and Cottage. The steamers took 320 tons or 250,000 rations for the command at Carthage. They skirmished with guerrillas for 20 miles, but sustained no damage. All the boats have returned to Nashville this morning. J. D. STUBES, Captain and Quartermaster. NASHVILLE, March 23, 18639.30 p. m. Major-General WRIGHT, Cincinnati: May I advise you to fortify, and organize Gillmore into a central mo- bile column, with every spare scout and force to back him i Drive all the cattle, horses, and mules before the command; strip the State of means of supporting the enemy; fortify with all negro and other work- men you can command, and store at central points. W. S. ROSECRANS, ]Iitajor- General. LOUISVILLE, March 23, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: General Carter telegraphs from Danville that Colonel Wolford reports from 5,000 to 10,000 rebel infantry near Somerset, and large force behind them. Yours, BOYLE. HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, March 23, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Cincinnati: GENERAL: On assuming command of the Department of the Ohio, one of the first things to which your attention will be called is the ex- pected raid of the enemy from East Tennessee into Kentucky. That the enemy is collecting a force in East Tennessee is very probable, and it is also very probable that he will attempt a raid into Kentucky as soon as the season is sufficiently advanced to make the roads practica- ble; but I do not think that the forces already collected amount to more than a few thousand, as the armics of C enerals Rosecrans and Grant have in their fronts nearly all the troops that are available in the South - West. Three plans will suggest theinsclx-es to ~ou for conuteractiu Page 163 ChAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 163 this project of the enemy: First. To assume the offensive, by moving the mass of your forces into East Tennessee, and giving .{he enemy suP ficient occupation there. If this were practicable, it would certainly be preferable not only in a military point of view, but would serve to relieve the loyal people of East Tennessee. But it is said that there are almost insuperable obstacles to this plan; that the country from the Kentucky Blue Grass iRegion to the valley of the Tennessee is almost barren, and would afford your army no supplies of provisions or forage; that a wagon could hardly carry forage enough for its own animals, much less provis- ions for men and forage for artillery and cavalry horses; moreover, it is said that East Tennessee has been so stripped by the enemy of forage and provisions that no adequate supplies can be procured there, even if we were to take away the means of support from the loyal or non-combatant inhabitants of that already impoverished country. I cannot say that these statements are entirely correct, but you will be able to determine on your arrival in Kentucky. Second. To seize and fortify the different gaps in the mountains which separate Kentucky from East Tennessee. Unfortunately for this plan, there are so many practicable roads that it would require a large force to accomplish this object, and it would then be so scattered as to be incapable of concentration on any one point. Again, the difficulty of supplies is very great. The passes to be occupied are at a very considerable distance from your bi~se, and can be reached only by dirt roads which are impracticable most of the year. Third. To concentrate your forces at some point in Central Kentucky, say Lebanon, iDanville, or Richmond, from which point they can oper- ate against an invading force, to meet or cut it off before it can reach any supplies, and while its men are short of provisions and its animals suffering for want of forage. This l)lan is objected to on the ground that it leaves too many important points unprotected, and does not serve as a check to disloyalists now scattered through Kentucky. To accomplish this last object, it is urged that a considerable body of troops must be distributed through the country. You will very probably find it impracticable to adopt either of these plans exclusively; indeed, I am of opinion that it will be preferable to combine the first and last; that is, to hold your main force in some central position, and at the same time to annoy the enemy and threaten his communications, by making cavalry raids into East Tennessee. In this way you will be able to feel the enemy to ascertain his movements, and to operate with your main body so as to thwart his plans. The movements of your own troops will depend in no small degree upon those of the army under General Rose- crans. You will, therefore, frequently consult with him in regard to his intended operations. His first object is to occupy and injure as much as possible the army in his front, and, secondly, to rescue the loyal inhabitants of East Tennessee, or, rather, the latter is the ultimate ob- ject of his campaign. After the closing of the navigation of the Cum- berland, all his supplies must reach him by rail from Louisville. It is, therefore, of vital importance that the line of the railroad is well pro- tected. If good block-houses are ~onstructed at all the important bridges, and strong works of moderate extent thrown up at crossings of Green and Big Barren Rivers, they will greatly diminish the number of troops necessary for the security of that line. These precautionary measures for the protection of railroads have been too much neglected by our generals. Another matter, to which I would particularly call your attention, is the retention, under various excuses, of troops in Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, and more particularly in the latter State. With the exceptiou Page 164 164 KY., MID~ AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. of the necessary guards at the camps of prisoners, all troops should be immediately brought into the field. You will receive numerous and urgent solicitations to retain troops in various parts of these States for the purpose of overawing and restraining disloyalists, & c. You will find, however, that these representations are made to subserve some local or private interests, and should not be yielded to. Partly for the same reasons, and partly from the real fears of loyal persons, you will be solicited to establish garrisons in nearly every town in Ken- tucky. To satisfy all these local solicitations would require an army of 100,000 men. in regard to your treatment of the inhabitants of Ken- tucky, you will be guided by your own good judgment; occurring events will cause this treatment to vary at different times and in different lo. calities. My own views upon this subject are pretty fully set forth in my letter of the 5th instant to Major-General Rosecrans, a copy of~ which is inclosed herewith.* These views are formed from my own experience in Missouri and Tennessee. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. HALLECK, Ge eral-in- Chief. LEXINGTON, KY., March 23, 1863. Major-Gi~neral WRIGHT, Cincinnati; Our pickets, 1 mile in front of Stanford, are fighting Colonel Wol- ford. Scouts report the enemy 7,000 cavalry and three regiments of infantry. I have ordered General Carter to retire behind Dicks River, and dispute the passage of that stream. I shall commence fortifying this place to-morrow morning. Have you any more troops for me, or can General Boyle spare any ~ GILLMORE. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 23, 1863. General A. C. FULLER, Springfield, Iii.: I have intelligence that the rebels are entering Kentucky in consid- erable force, and we shall want all the troops we can get. Please hasten movement of the Fourteenth Cavalry as much as possible. Paymaster might accompany it, and pay it in Kentucky; also the battery. Any other troops should be sent to Louisville at once. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, - Ky., March 23, 1863. Maj. Gen. HoRATIo G. WEIGHT, ~Jomdg. Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio: GENERAL: I have the honor to state that I believe that the enemy are advancing in heavy force on Danville. I have just telegraphed von the information last received from General Cart r, commanding in that vicinity, namely, that Colonel Wolfords scouts estimate the en- emys strength at 7,000 cavc lry mid three regiments of infantry, and See p. 107 Page 165 CHAP. XXXV.1 CORRE PONDENCE, ETC-TLTTON. 165 that the pickets were engaged about a mile in front of Stanford. Gen- eral Carter has my orders not to risk a battle in front of I)icks River unless the chances are much in his favor, but to hold the enemy in check, and make a stand on that stream, and subsequently on the Ken- tucky River, if forced back. I am pushing forward the defenses at Frankfort and at the Kentucky ferries between Lexington and Richmond, and can hold the line of the Kentucky against superior numbers. 1 shall commence fortifying this town to-morrow morning for a garrison of 3,000 men. I have between 1,100 and 1,200 sick here, and many valuable stores. My opinion is that this advance of the enemy is an invasion, with a view to the occupancy of Central Kentucky, and not a raid. I again refer you to my letters of January 23 and March 10, 1863, in which I pronounced the invasion of Kentucky entirely practicable, notwith- standing the bad condition of the roads. I believed then that nothing but an early and decisive victory for our arms in Teniiessee would enable us to retain possession of Kentucky. That victory has been deferred so long that the theater of war is likely to be changed to this State. Additional troops should be sent here forthwith. The bridges of the two railroads meeting at this place are secure against small forces of the enemy, but it will be no difficult matter for him to tear up the track between the stations, and cut my lines of communication, should he once cross the Kentucky in any respectable force. I ask your attention to these matters, and full instructions. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier- General, Go mrnanding. PORTSMOUTH, OHio, March 23, 1863. Major-General WRIGHT, Ci cinnati: Cluke has been re-enforced in Magoffin County by Humphrey Mar- shall, with 1,000 or 1,500 and some light artillery, one piece of which was captured Friday night and secreted by one of my scouts. No doubt of Marshalls presence there. My effective force, besides the cavalry which was ordered to Lexington, will not exceed 800 in companies on duty at Catlettsburc~- I respectfully ask cluding two replies by tele- graph to the following: May I retain the cavalry now under marching orders temporarily? Will you place Colonel [John L.] Zeiglers regi- ment temporarily under my command? Do you know of any move- ment of our troops from Mount Sterling toward West Liberty; if so, what strength? Have the six companies Seventh Ohio Cavalry, or- dered to report to me, left Lexington yet? JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO Cincinnati, Ohio, March 23, 1863. Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: White reports from Big Sandy that Marshalls force i~ from 1,000 to 1,500. How many has Walker, and is he strong enough to resist com- bined force of Cluke and Marshall ~ Has Carter force enongh, and ar Page 166 1(36 KY., MIT) AND F. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. the iml)Ortallt points on railroad adequately i~rotectcd I Let me know positions and available strength of yoiur various forces, and some par- ticulars regarding enemy. H. 0-. WT~IGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTEnS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 23, 1863. Brigadier-General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: Have received a rather scary dispatch from Gilimore. Send him any troops you can spare. Those at Lebanon will be most available. Also release the steamer Wren, taken by General Hovey. It was not in- tended he should have her, as she is essential to Gillmore. II. 0-. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 23 [el], 1863li a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel HILL, Commanding Clays Ferry: I transmit herewith copy of dispatches sent you last night;* also copy of instructions sent to the master of train which Colonel Runkle ordered from Richmond in this direction.* I presume by this time Colonel Run- kle is at Lancaster, or in vicinity, and is in communication with General Carter, who is at Danville, or possibly on the road between Danville and Stanford. I suppose you also are at Clays Ferry, crossing your command to this side. I wish you to push forward the work at Tates Creek, Clay, and Boonesborough Ferries. Re-enforce the party at Boonesborough, and send at least one good company of the Fourteenth Kentucky Cavalry to the mouth of Red River, to guard passage there. Be sure to keep possession of all the boats at Clays Ferry, and destroy them if they are in danger of falling into the hands of the enemy. I will send you two mountain howitzers this afternoon, and can give you more mounted force, if you want it. How many men have been left at Irvine ~l Send a courier at once to Irvine, with orders to have the boats there destroyed immediately; not scuttled and sunk, but destroyed. I will move a portion of Colonel Walkers troops from Mount Sterling to Winchester to-night. Keep your scouts well out toward Lancaster and Mount Vernon, and keep me thoroughly informed, if you have news from Colonel Runkle, send back a courier at once. If the enemy attempt to force a passage, send word to me and to the commanding officer at Winchester at the same time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GILLMORE, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 23, 1863. Col. BENJAMIN P. RUNKLE: The brigadier-general commanding directs me to say that dispatches from Colonel Walker fix him at Hazie Green on the 21st. Most of * Not found Page 167 ChAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.ITNJON. 1(37 Clukes force cscaI)ed him. Have gone back to Mount Sterling, cap- turing the guards there. The enemy are advancing on Stanford in force, having already passed Somerset, while Colonel Walker reports Marshall, 1,800 strong, at Salyersville. If Cluke attempts to escape, it will be in your direction probably, although he may hang around Ow- ingsville, in order to loin Marshall. Order the force at Irvine to Rich- mond at once, except a guard for the forage and ferries there. Keep your command together, for you will be ordered this side of the river very soon. The general directs me to say that he can keep you in- formed of everything that occurs in front of Stanford,~but you must watch the road to London yourself. He wishes to concentrate his forces on the north side of the Kentucky, and has none to risk at outpost fights, eveu on equal chances. Dispatch another courier to Colonel Walker, to return in this direction at once, using his discretion as to the route he will take. Watch the ferries for Cluke. Very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, SAM. M. KNEELAND, Lieutenant and Aide-dc-Camp. HEADQUARTERS DIsTRIcT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 23, 1863. Col. BENJAMIN P. RUNKLE, Richmond, Ky.; The brigadier-general commanding directs that you move all your effective force, except the Fourteenth Kentucky Cavalry, to Lancaster at once, reporting in advance to Brigadier-General Carter by courier. The general will be at Danville or Stanford. The enemys pickets are at Halls Gap, about 5 miles from Stanford. Colonel Walker and Lieu- tenant-Colonel Wilson, with their forces, are at Mount Sterling. Cluke was left in the vicinity of Owingsviile, and there is, therefore, no imme- diate danger of the ferries. The general commanding has sent word to the Tates Creek, Clay, and Boonesborough Ferries for all detachments of the Forty-fourth and Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry to repair to Richmond at once. This he did to save time. The fatigue parties sent from here to those ferries will remain there, and have orders to go on with their work vigorously. Leave Lieutenant-Colonel Hill, in com- mand of the Fourteenth Kentucky Cavalry, at Richmond and Irvine for the present, with instructions to watch the road to London. The gen- eral wishes him to put his command under strict discipline. You should be on the march in one hour after the receipt of this order. According to your semi-weekly report of the 19th instant, you have 876 effective men at Richmond. The general has telegraphed to General Carter to send orders to you on the road. Lieutenant-Colonel Hill should retire on Clays Ferry if driven in from the direction of London. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. M. BURGER, Captain and Assistant Adjutant. General. CLEVELAND, OHIO, Mdrch 23, 1863. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Bruch telegraphs that the rebels made a raid on railroad 3 miles north of Grand Junction, Teun., yesterday; captured and destroyed woo Page 168 168 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. XTA. [CHAP XXXV. train and cut telegraphnot been working to Memphis since; also that the enemy have crossed the Cuimberland in small force near Somerset, Ky. The operator made his escape. No Union troops there. Mount Sterling was taken by rebels yesterday, and about 200 Union troops captured. ~ A. STAGER. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF TUE OHIO, No. 25. f Cincinnati, Ohio, March 23, 1863. The State of Indiana is hereby constituted a district of this depart- inent, to be known as the District of Indiana. Brig. Gen. II. B. Car- rington, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned ~o the command of the District of Indiana, with headquarters at Indianapolis. By command of Major-General Wright: W. P. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant- General. FI~ANKLIN, March 24, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: In reply to your circular of March 21, received to-day, I would say my portion of the country is swarming with the meanest, bitterest kind of enemies. I know of no other way to report the names and numbers of active enemies than to say that everything in this neighborhood would come under that head, and that the use of a fine-tooth comb of immense size moving southward would have more effect than any other mode 1 can propose to get rid of their presence. G. GRANGER, Major- General. FRANKLIN, March 24, 1863. Major-General RosEORANS: No change in front since yesterday. Steedm an informs me that his front was menaced yesterday by 1,000 cavalry, and thinks that whole movement is a foraging expedition. I am credibly informed that the rebels are greatly exercised about our movements and designs, and they have an idea that we are falling back, and have sent spies into our lines to find out our intentions. I have captured 8 suspicious prowlers, who were sharp as lightning. G. GRANGEJI, Major- General. UNITED STATES STEAMER Ronn, March 24, 1863. General DODGE, Commanding Forces at Corinth, Miss.: SIR: I would most respectfully call your attention to the vicinity of Clifton and Carrollville, Tenn. Being on my way, in company of the United States gunboat Silver Lake, up the Tennessee River, and com- ing in the vicinity of those places after dark last evening, I thought I would like to see them in daylight, so laid over at Beech Creek Island until daylight. This morning, about 6 oclock, I arrived opposite Carroll- ville. I found about 100 rebels of Colonel Daughertys command, unde Page 169 CHAP. XXXV.] COIIRESPONDLNC~ , E~ C.UNION. 169 Van Dorn, rendezvoused there, con sci ipting, stealing horses, and stop- ping movers from leaving the country. I shelled them out of the place, but dont know what damage was done them. I found a number of car- bines and 6 or 8 horses, with saddles and bridles, which I took. I also captured two of the band (Black burnsfather and son). Clifton and Carrollville are undoubtedly the rendezvous of the conscripting parties of Wayne County and vicinity. Those parties trouble the west side of the river a good deal. Jam, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JASON GOWDY, Acting Volunteer Jieutefl4nt Commanding. LouIsVILLE, March 24, 1863. Major-General RoSECRANS: Rebels have possession of Dauville. Gilimore fallen back to Dicks River, near Dick Robinson. Rebels reported in large force. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. SPECIAL QRDERS, ~ HDQRS. OP THE Amwv, ADJT. GEN.$ OFFICE, No. 138. ~ Washington, March 24, 1863. I. Brig. Gen. John S. Mason, U. S. Volunteers, will report in person withont delay to Major-General Rosecrans, commanding Department of the Cumberland, for duty. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Halleck: L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. CLEVELAND, OHIO, March 24, 18633 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Telegram just received from Dauville, Ky., says: A large force of the rebels occupy Stanford. The main body came in from Hun- tersville. They have infafttry, cavalry, and artillery, and are moving upon this place and on Lancaster in force. Colonel Wolford has been fighting their advance all day between here and Stanford. The troops here are in line of battle about I mile from town. A. STAGER. CINCINNATI, OHIO, March 24, 18632.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Arrived this morning, and have received very full and explicit infor- mation from Wright, which makes me very anxious to have my other division from Suffolk, and I hope the interest of the public service will allow you to send it to me. I hope you feel I would not ask if I did not deem it necessary. It seems to me that General Hooker can better spare a division than this department. I will report more fully this afternoo Page 170 170 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. rCHAP. XXXV. or to-morrow. Wright says there is no trouble at Indianapolis, and I shall assume the responsibility of not going there till I have received an answer to this. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Gincinnati, Ohio, March 24,1863. Brigadier-General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: I dont yet credit report of enemys numbers. It cant be true, though he must be in some strength. Gillmore can hold his own until re- enforced, a~nd you have still more time. Have again urged Governor Yates to send you the Fourteenth Cavalry, and General Carrington any force he can spare. Burnside is here, and will have some 12,000 old troops in a day or two. We need not be scared. H. G. WRIGHT, ]Jiliajor. General, Commanding~ HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Gincinnati, Ohio, March 24, 1863. Brigadier-General GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: I sent you five companies this morning, and have not another man to spare. Burnsides force will arrive to-morrow, and will be pushed directly on to Lexington. Have heard nothing of rebels at Glasgow. Tell commanders at Paris and Cynthiana that they can and must hold their posts against any force that can be brought against them for the present. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, 6onimanding. INDIANAPOLIS, March 24, 18638.45 a. m. Major-General WRIGHT: General Boyle telegraphs that Danville is taken by a large force. I will send him a battery in the morning. I have another disposable. I think a division should be sent from the Potomac at once I dare not spare a man here, except artillery. HENRY B. CARRINGTON, Brigadier-General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 24 [ni], 1863. Lient. Col. JOSEPH HILL: Inclosed please find a copy of instructions sent to Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson, Forty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, at Winchester.* The brigadier-general commanding directs me to say that you may expect the re-enforcement by 4 oclock to-morrow morning. The fol- lowing is the substance of a dispatch sent you at 11 a. m. to-day: I suppose you are at Clays Ferry, crossing your command to this side. I wish you to push forward the work at Tates Creek, Clay, rand Boonesborough Ferries. Re- enforce the party at Boonesborough, and send at least one good company of the Four- * Not found Page 171 (ThAI. MX.] COPPESPONDENCE, FTC TTNTON. 171 teentli Kentucky Cavalry to the nioutitof Red River, to guard pass~ye there. Be sure to keep possession of all the boats at Clays Ferry, and destroy them if in danger of falling into the hands of the enemy. Send a courier at once to Irvine, with orders to have the hoats there destroyed immediately; not scnttled and sunk, hut destroyed. Keep your scouts well out toward Lancaster and Mount Vernon, and keep me thor- oughly informed. If the enemy attempt to force a passage, send, word to me and the commanding officer at Winchester av the same time. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAM. M. KNEELAND, Lieutenant and Aide-dc. Camp. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 25, 18633 p. m. Major-General ROSECRANS, ]Jlurfreesborough, Tenn.: It is exceedingly important at the present time that you give the enemy in your front plenty of occupation. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. MURFREESBOROITGrI, TENN., March 25, 18639.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Dispatch received. Rebels appear to me juist now engaged in giving me occupation. Regret to learn from Granger, at Franklin, that 300 more of his men were captured to-day at Breutwood, 9 miles in his rear, by cavalry. All our information leads us to believe the enemy are con- centrating at Tullahoma, and attempting to weaken us bydetacliments, to chase the cavalry on our flanks. I do not think it prudent or prac- ticable to advance from this position until I am better or differently informed. Will know soon. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. LOUISVILLE, March 25, 186g. Major-General IROSECRANS: 1 will detain Second Indiana Cavalry but a few days. I have no cav- alry here. (Jhainpe Fergusons gang of rebels reported near Bardstown, 40 miles from here. Suppose Breckiuridges force coining this way from i)anviile. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. LOUISVILLE, March 25, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS: General Manson telegraphs from Lebanon that rebels, estimated at 1,200 strong and twenty-two pieces of artillery, under Breckiuridge, took possession of Danville yesterday, at 4 oclock. Breckinridge is conscripting all who do not volunteer, and will soon enlarge his force greatly. General ilobson says no armed rebels between Glasgow and the Cam- berland River. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General Page 172 172 KY., MID. AND E. TENN~, N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. CARTHAGE, TET~N., March 25, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, Murfreese5orough, leun.: The gunboat has just arrived from Nashville. The guerrillas fired into it at different points from 10 miles below Rome up the river to Rome. No damage done. It takes the boat two days to make a trip from here to Gallatin Landing and back, which is the only safe way for the mail, unless at least an escort of 100 men is sent by land, and as I have only one gunboat I could only send the mail every other day by it. But I ought to keep this boat here all the time in case of an attack. During the present stage of water I feel perfectly safe where I am, and can hold myself against anything like double my number. This stage of water will last over one month yet. I will have all the necessary fortifications erected. I sent an expedition to Rome last night. It returned this evening. It captured a forage train of 7 wagons, 2~ prisoners (Captain Reese among the number), and some 30 horses. My expedition to llartsville has not yet returned. send another expedition below Rome to-night after another forage train. Will I want more provisions if the cavalry comes here? I have seventy days for my present com- mand. No shelter tents came by the gunboat. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. GALLATIN, March 25, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General: My scouts this morning report 700 of Morgans command north of Hartsville, on Goose Creek, hid in the hills. General Crook sent a regiment to llartsville yesterday. The several posts on the line of the railroad should be notified. I will have it done if so directed. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, ~o. 27. Cincinnati, Ohio, March 25, 1863. In accordance with instructions from the General-in-Chief, the under- signed hereby assumes command of the Department of the Ohio. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, L1ommanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 25, 18633 p.m. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: It is important that you immediately carry out my instructions of the 23d, by concentrating forces in Central Kentucky, to meet the enemys raid. Additional troops cannot be sent you at present. H. W. HALLECK General-in- Chief Page 173 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 173 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 25, 1803. Brigadier-General GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: Have you any definite information regarding strength of enemy, character of his force, or other important particulars ~ If not, call upon Carter for it at once, and furnish it to these headquarters. Gen- eral Burnsides force expected every moment, and will be pushed for- ward without delay. Answer. H. G. WRIGHT, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 25, 1863. Brig. Gen. Q. A. GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: I do not yet credit the report in regard to enemys numbers, but it may possibly be true. Your instructions to General Carter to fall back of Dicks River, making it your first line of defense, is approved. By watching the crossings strictly, you can hold a large force in check. Watch well that the enemy does. not pass north, either toward Frank. fort or Lebanon, and if he does, follow him closely. Concentrate your forces as rapidly as practicable, so as to be able to use them effectively. General Bnrnside has arrived, and will have here some 6,000 of his old corps by to-morrow. He has sent Captain Goddard to see you, to get any information he can, learn the route, & c. H. G. WRIGHT, Major. General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, (incinnati, Ohio, ]Jiliarch 25, 1863. Brigadier-General GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: Governor Robinson asks if it is necessary to take any steps for the safety of the State archives. I have given my opinion that there is no immediate danger. Keep him advisec~. No troops can be sent from here till some arrive to-night, and none are at Louisville. You must, therefore, look to the safety of Frankfort with the troops you have. Send the information regarding the enemy, called for this morning. Since Carter has crossed the river, you are safe at Lexington, and ought to be able to send a battery of artillery, with further infantry support, to Frankfort. Officers in command should be instructed to hold that place. This position is of the strongest, and can easily be defended. H. G. WRIGHT, Major-General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 25, 1863. Gov. J. F. ROBINsON, Frank-fort, K~y.: I am in constant expectation of getting more definite information re- garding the enemy. As at present advised, I do not believe Fraj~K1i~fl Page 174 174 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. in immediate danger. General Burnsicle is here, and a large force of his old corps, now on the river, are expected every moment. The in- stant they arrive they will be pushed to the front. I will telegraph you again shortly. H. G. WRIGHT Major- General, Commanding. LEXINGTON, March 25, 1863. (Received 5.12 p. in.) Major-General WRIGHT: I telegraphed to Adjutant-General Finnell this morning that there was no necessity of moving any of the archives. Colonel Casement will have this evening about 1,000 infantry and five pieces of artillery, and has my orders to employ contrabands in the trenches. Frankfort and Lexington are safe. Recent information confirms my report that the enemy does not exceed 3,500 men. They are all mounted, and have seven pieces of artillery. There may be some in their rear, but I doubt it. Q. A. GLLLMORE, Brigadier- General. LEXINGTON, March 25; 1863. (Received 9.30 p. in.) Major-General WRIGHT: General Carter, at Hickman [Bridge], reports enemy not very strong in immediate front, but fears they will try to crosa below. Ferries -are watched. Last information from Marshall fixes him in Magoffin, ap- proaching with 800 men. Colonel Walker is watching him in direction of Mount Sterling. Q. A. GILLMORE. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 26, 186311 a. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War; The President writes, by General Rousseau, that he will order any arms needed for this command. I want 5,000 5harp5~ carbines, new pattern, .54 caliber, for infantry detail. My outposts are being picked up all the time by rebel cavalry. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 26, 186312.30 p. m. General H. W. HALLECIC, Washington: Your very clear and able letter concerning conflicts between ci~ril and military authority is received. There has been no conflict that I know of. If the Governor would report at Gallatin, I should be pleased to put him in command. Nashville is too important a post for me to jntrust to his command at this time. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- Gencral Page 175 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNJON. 175 MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 26, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLEOX, General-in-Chief: Brigadier-General Boyle says Breckinridge occupies Danville and Harrodsburg. Have telegraphed him that we have the Chattanooga Rebel, of the 24th, giving an account of Joe Johnstons review of the troops there, from which I find that Breckinridge was there, with his staff, and one of his regiments received a stand of colors on that day, after review. I telegraph you this: No change on enemys side, except cavalry trying to go to ilarpeth Shoals, below Nashville. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Louisville, March 26, 1863. Major-Geheral ROSECRANS: Rebels under Breckinridge still occupy iDanville and Harrodsburg. Our troops have fallen back to Kentucky River. Rebels estimated at from 7,000 to 15,000. It is reported, and believed to be, the advance of a much larger force. They come up the Sequatchie Valley to your left. I fear the army before you will make flank movement, coming by same route, and re-enforce Breckinridge. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, NASHVILLE, March 26, 1863. Chief of & aff: I have just returned from near ilarpeth, on Charlotte pike, and am satisfied the enemy are heading for the Shoals in considerable force. I think they are flanking us on both sides, intending another raid in Kentucky. I have had no reply with regard to arms for the Fourth Tennessee Cavalry. Can I have them ~ They are useless as they are. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General, Commanding Post. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 26, 186310.10 a. m. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Gincinnati, Ohio: All troops in your department are subject to your orders, no matter what State they are in. The~ militia of Missouri has given so much trouble that the President hesitates about repeating it in Kentucky. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. CINCINNATI, OHIO, March 26, 186312 m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Your letter of instructions of thc 23d is this momciit received, an(l I will be governed accordiu~ly. Nothing new from the cuemy. I thinl Page 176 176 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., ~. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV that we can hold the line of the Kentucky until a column can be organ- ized at or near Lebanon to move against the enemy. It is said that Humphrey Marshall has moved from Magoffin County in the direction of Mount Sterling. He may give us some trouble, but we will try and look out for him. Our cavalry force is very small. Qne brigade oC the Ninth Corps has gone down to Louisville, to be sent out from there. The other brigades of the First Division are expectec to-day or to-mor- row. A. E. BUIRNSJDE, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 26, 1863. ~Jaj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: You have authority to mount infantry, but horses and equipments must be purchased by the Quartermasters and Ordnance Departments on proper requisitions. Otherwise the Government will be bidding against itself. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WASHINGTON, March 26, 18635.26 p. m. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE B. BURNSIDE, Commanding Department of the Ohio: What is absolutely necessary for your operations will be supplied by the Quartermasters Department. Colonel [Thomas] Swords is chief qnartermaster of the district in which you operate. If so large a sup- ply train as you indicate is necessary, it will be provided upon your order, but, before expending half a million, you should ascertain whether of the immense number of wagons and animals purchased for opera- tions south of the Ohio there are not yet enough remaining within your command to fit out all trains actually necessary. Deficiencies will be supplied by the officers of this department upon your order. The laws in regard to contracts and purchases of -military supplies are very stringent, and public notice should be given, in conformity to law and. regulations, before contracting or purchasing. (See act of June 2, 1862, chapter 93.) I hope that it will not be necessary to provide so many mules as you speak of in your dispatch. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 26, 1863. Brigadier-General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: The last of General Poes brigade will reach Louisville to-night, in all about 2.000. General Buruside directs that you furnish in detail at once your proposition for the concentration of these troops with those you propose drawing from Bowling Green and C~ve City. II. G. WRIGUT Page 177 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 177 BURNET HousE, Gincinnati, Ohio, March 26, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: One boat left here last night about midnight with troops for Louis- ville, and another about 10 oclock this morning. Please answer my telegram of this morning at once as to the number of troops that can be spared from your side to form an attacking column. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major- General, Gommanding Department of the Ohio. IIEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE Onio, General J. T. BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: Cincinnati, March 26, 1863. You can withdraw the three regiments you spoke of from Bowling Green and Cave City and concentrate them at Lebanon, and send also to Lebanon such infantry regiments and batteries as can be well spared from Louisville. This concentration is made with a view to attacking the enemy at iDanville, or at such place as he may be at after the con- centration is effected. The forces from Louisville will not start until the three regiments from below are far enough on the wa~ to make the arrival simultaneous. No time should be lost in making the movement. It is possible that I may to-morrow direct you to concentrate the Louis- ville force at Bardstown. Regiments must carry with them three days cooked rations; other supplies and forage can be sent them by railroad. Each man must carry 40 rounds of ammunition in boxes, and 20 in pockets. I have ordered the Eleventh Kentucky to be mounted, and shall to-morrow direct the quartermaster to forward the horses and equipments. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 26, 1863. Brigadier-General GILLMORE, Le ington, Ky.: General Burnside directs that in case the force under Walker is not sufficient to cover Paris and other points on the railroad securely to- day, that you re-enforce it. Additional troops will be sent along the road to-night. Answer as to probable security of road. II. G. WRIGHT, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, 9.45 a. m. Colonel WALKER, Lexington, Ky., March 26 1863 6ommanding at Winchester: COLONEL: Lieutenant-Colonel Wilsons dispatch of last evening is re- ceived, reportin~ that Clake would probably be in Mount Sterling to-day. The enemy on the south side of the river are advancing on Richmond, and Cluke will doubtless try to Join them. The best way to prevent that is for you to remain at Winchester; otherwise, if you attempt to 12 Ii ThYOL XXIIT, PT I Page 178 178 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. pursue him, he might double on you and capture the guard at Boones- borough; possibly at Clays Ferry also. Keep yourself in communica- tion with the commanders at those two ferries, and aid them, should a passage of the river be attempted there, as I have no mounted troops here. The news you get from Marshall may require a modification of this order; therefore keep me informed. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. GJLLMORE Brigadier- General, Commanding. P. S.Send scouts to the ferries above Boonesborough, and be ready to re.enforce them. If necessary, keep the n~ain body of your command together. HEADQUARTERh DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., March 26, 186310.45 a. m. Lieutenant-Colonel HILL, Commanding Clays Ferry: COLONEL: The enemy were reported advancing on Richmond last night; I have heard nothing from you about it. You should watch very closely all the ferries from Tates Creek up, and destroy the boats if the enemy appears in force. Colonel Walker is in the vicinity ot Winchester, and some time during the day he will receive the order, just sent him, to send scouts to the ferries above Boonesborough, and re-enforce those places if the enemy threaten them. I am to-day send- ing ammunition for the Fourth Kentucky Cavalry. Keep me frequently informed of what is taking place at the front, and push forward the rifle-pits at the ferries. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Q. A. G-ILLMORE, Brigadier-General, Commanding. P. S.Place your cannon behind some earth cover, and make such modifications in the defenses as may be required for immediate use. The force approaching Richmond has no artillery, I think. - HEADQUARTERS EASTERN DISTRICT OF KENTUCKY, Louisa, March 26, 1863. Capt. C. W. FOSTER, Assistant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: The enemy, after my dispatch of last evening, moved up within rifle-shot of my outposts, and kept up firing at intervals during the night. This morning the indications are that he has left, though I am not yet positive of the fact. I have a reconnaissance of cavalry already out (8 a. n.), and shall follow with an additional force so soon as the necessary preparation can be made. Another body of the enemy are reported near by, on the Virginia side. If so, they were intended for co-operation with the forces which attacked me in front. I am ex- ploring the country on that side also, and shall endeavor to keep on the alert. There is no reason to doubt that their force in this region is con- siderable. As I have no light artillery, and but about 800 effective in- tantry, 1 do not expect to do more than harass the enemy. His inte Page 179 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 179 tion was doubtless to surprise this command; failing in which he has either retired a short distance to bring up his artillery or has started on some other enterprise. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 26, 1863. General GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: You will at once issue orders to all your troops, except those on the railroad, to keep constantly on hand three days cooked rations and 60 rounds of ammunition40 rounds in their boxes and 20 in pockets when they are ordered to march. If youi need shelter tents, please tele- graph at once, and they will be sent to you. General Carter must not be moved far from Hickman Bridge, as it is my intention to move a force across the Kentucky River as soon as Willcoxs division reaches here and is placed in position. I have ordered a force to be concen- trated at Lebanon, the details of which I will send you when I send your order. Keep Carter, Walker, and your available troops at Lex- ington ready to move at short notice. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major-General, Commanding Department. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, No. 140. Washington, March 26, 1863. * * * * * * * II. Brig. Gen. Davis Tillson, U. S. Volunteers, will report to the commanding general Department of the Ohio for duty, to inspect the forts and batteries of Covington and Newport, Ky. He will be accom- panied by Ordnance Sergt. Luke Walker, U. S. Army, now on duty at Fort Runyon, near this city. * * * * * * By command of Major-General Halleck: L. THOMAS, Adjutant- General. CARTHAGE, TENN., March 27, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, Murfreesborough: Six companies of Tennessee cavalry (270 men) arrived here to-night. Report their horses in bad condition. When will the two other regi- meiits of Tennessee cavalry be here? I think if East Tennessee regi- ments were to come here they could recruit a good maiiy men. Enemy have considerable cavalry force near Liberty. What are the largest wages spies can be paid, and what is usual for thai; kind of service Page 180 180 KY., MID. AND E. TENN, N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. I can get reliable persons to go into the East Tennessee Valley, and find out all about that country, if it is desirable. I will send you a map of my position and defenses completed, in a few days more. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. SMITIILAND, March 27, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: If all the light-dranglit boats are sent below, it will be a difficult mat- ter to get supplies to Nashville, as the river is falling. I will send through two convoys a week. LEROY FITCH, Lieutenant- Commander. FRANKLIN, March 27, 1863. General RosECRANS: Have ordered two crack regiments of infantry, one of cavalry, and one battery to Brentwood. Cars will be running to-morrow. Mitchell ought to hold Brentwood; it could always be re-enforced, either from Nashville, Triune, or this place. At the same time it is in position to re-enforce either of these points, if threatened. All secure in front. G. GRKNGER, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OP THE CTJMJ3ERLAND, Murfreesborough, March 27, 1863. Maj. Gen. GORDON GRANGER, Franklin: Regard your position as a strong outpost, covering our right and communications, to be held only so long as practicable, without endan- gering your column, which must adhere to Steedman or the rear, accord- ing to the pressure. Your proper work being this, keep hand and foot loose. Have your shelter tents. Keep open communication with Steed- man, both by signal and courier. If you can get an opportunity, strike your blows on the rebels, but d6nt let them strike you. You must rather adhere to Steedman than draw him toward you. In case of a heavy pressure, it would be better for us that you should both be on the Nolensville road, and both should fall back toward Nashville. This gives you an idea of the defensive r31e of your column, and whichway you are to incline. Yourself and Steedman could whip a very large column. You must see to it that you can co-operate. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OP THE OHIO, March 27, 1863. General BOYLE, LomisriUc, Ky.: Please report at once if you can concentrate forces to-morrow morning at Lebanon, to move upon the enemy from that l)lace. I shall order C enci-al Gilimore to reeross the Kentucky River to-i ii glit, and attack Jiaiwdle , you can co~operate with him. Ceneral Gillmort to4florrow i Page 181 ChAP. XXXV.] COI& T?ESPOXDENCE, ETC.UNION, 181 reports that the enemy is all north of Hickman Bridge; look out that he dont make a detour and get out between Loni ~ville and Lebanon. We ought to capture him. A. B. BURNSIDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Louisville, March 27, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: Eighty of Ninth Kentucky Cavalry dashed into iDanville yesterday evening, drove in rebel pickets, and captured their arms. The First Georgia is in Danville. General Manson says whole force of rebels does not exceed 2,500. I can throw force to Lebanon and whip the scoundrels, if they stand. I can send Colonel McCooks cavalry from here, and three or four regiments of infantry, and do the work. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. LEXINGTON, March 27, 1863. Major-General BunNsrnE: Cipher dispatch received. Troops ready to move at any time. From reports from my scouts this morning, I deteri in A to move Carters force against the enemy to-night, leave Colonel Gilbert in command, and go to the front myself. Pegram should not be allowed to join Cfuke or Marshall. This can be prevented now better than two days hence. Shall I go, using my own judgment, and leaving Gilbert at Lexington? If troops are to arrive to-night, I can safely go. Answer. Very respectfully, Q. A. GILLMORE. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, March 27, 1863. General GILLMORE, Lexington, Ky.: Move Carters force across the Kentucky River to-night or early to- morrow morning, and tell him that he must attack the enemy vigorously. We ought to capture or disperse the whole of Pegrams force. I have ordered Boyle to concentrate a force at Lebanon, to co-operate with you, and have also ordered him to have a force at Lebanon and Bardstown Junction, to prevent the enemy from crossing Salt River. I expect you to capture or break up the entire force. Order Walker to attack Marshall and Cluke with his forces and such re-enforcements as you can give him. Order both commands to attack vigorously. I have just issued an order dismissing the commanding officer who surrendered at Mount Sterling. Look out for Frankfort and Paris. You can take command of either column of attack if you wish. A. B. BULiNSIDE, Major- General. LEXINGTON, March 27, 1863. Major-General BTJRNSIDE: All right; I start for Hickman Bridge in a few hours. Colonel Christs regiment arrived this evening; another regiment in an hour; both will go forward to Nicholasville in the train. Colonel Walker is after Cluke now, I believe. But few of Marshalls men have been i Page 182 182 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXY. Mount Sterling. Cluke is aiming to cross the Kentucky Illiver. I can arrest the united force if he does, but may not catch him, as they are all mounted. Dispatch just received from Carter estimates the enemy at 5,000. I still think there is not over 3,500. Yours, GJLLMORE. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, 1War~h 27, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: General Gillmore will cross the river at Hickman Bridge to-morrow morning and attack the enemy. Please use your forces to co-operate with him to the best of your ability, especially those at Lebanon. There is no reason why we should not capture or disperse the enerny~s force. [0. M.] Poes brigade can be sent to Bardstown by railroad at once, and cars retained there to move back to Lebanon if you wish. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. (Operator will see that this is sent to Colonel Boyle at once, without cipher, and delivered immediately. All the dispatches received to-night are wrong, and cannot be interpreted. The operators must be as.leep.) GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRs. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 29. f Cincinnati, Ohio, March 27, 1863. Col. Anson Stager, additional aide-de-camp, general superintendent of military telegraphs, will appoint such officers as may be necessary at these headquarters and at the various stations, and all requisitions for new lines and other matters connected with his department will be made on him through these headquarters. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant. General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 109. (incinnati, Ohio, March 27, 1863. I. Colonel Christ, commandingbrigade, Ninth Army Corps, will pro- ceed with his command to Lexington, reporting to General Gillmore. The Twenty-ninth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, Colonel Pierce, will be left in its present position till relieved from this point. * * * * * * By order ~f Major-General Buruside: W. P. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant- General. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., March 28, 18639.30 p. m. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chic]; Washington, D. C.: Can and will you send me a few companies of regular artillery, to man the artillery in the works at Nashville and this place, where we are making strong batteries ? It is very important to have skilled men here. W S. ROSECRANS. Page 183 CHAP. XXXVI CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .IJNION. 183 MURFREE8EOROUGII, TENN., March 28, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, General-in- Ghi~f, Washington: No special change in the rebel position. Bragg reported to have come forward to Shelbyville; Johnston at Tullahoma; say they want me to advance, their cavalry to flank me, and Longstreet to come from Knoxville. Provisions are scarce with them. Van Dorn on Grangers front. Rebel papers report 15,000 Federals at Savannah, on the Ten- nessee. Rebels have 4,000 men at Tuscumbia. W. S.. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, March 28, 1863. General GORDON GRANGER, Franklin: General information that some infantry was sent from Tullahoma toward Columbia may be quite recent or not. Van Porn is certainly back at or near Columbia. In any case, with the instructions forwarded last night, you will understand how to act. You and Steedman are to avoid being strnck by any blows. If the enemy attempt any demon- stration to extend our lines and weaken our front here, you will defeat him by retiring and drawing him in. Make him extend his line, and weaken his center, while you secure our line of communication, even if you have to rest in front of Nashville. If we can draw in some of his force, and catch it, it will be well. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. FRANKLIN, March 28, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Dispatch received. I have your idea of swinging to our left and forming junction with Steedman, in the event I was forced back, or in case either his position or yours should be seriously threatened. Of course our line of operations (Steedmans and mine) must then be along the Nolensville pike. The only embarrassment is in holding Breutwood, with my small force, against cavalry raid. I think that should be an outpost of Nashville. I have just learned that Van Porn is near Spring Hill, with most of his force. The party that gobbled up Blood- good crossed Duck River, at Williamsport, in a hurry. The news in the rebel camp is that Grenada has fallen and that Vicksburg is surrounded. The Mississippi troops swear they will go home. The heavy rain has rendered the country impassable; streams swollen. G. GRANGER, Major-General. SPECIAL HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, ORDERS, Washington, March 28, 1863. * * * * * * * III. Brig. Gen. John B. Turchin, U. S. Volunteers, will report for duty to Major-General Rosecrans, commanding Department of the Cumberland. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Halleck: E. P. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 184 184 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CUAP. XXXV. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRN. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 175. Winchester, Ten ., March [July] 28, 1863. ARMY OF THE CUMBERLAND: By the favor of God you have expelled the insurgents from Middle Tennessee. You are now called upon to aid your unfortunate fellow-citizens of this section of the State in restoring law, and securing its protection to persons and property, the right of every free people. Without prompt and united efforts to prevent it, this beautiful region will be plundered and desolated by robbers and guerrillas; its industry will be suspended or destroyed, and a large part of the population left without sufficient food for the coming winter. It is true, many of the people have favored the rebellion, but many were dragged unwillingly into it by a current of mad passion they could not, or dared not, resist. The conspirators and traitors, bankrupts in fortunes and in reputation; political swindlers, who forced us from our homes to defend the Government of our fathers, have forced the inhabitants of Middle Tennessee into this unnatural attempt to ruin and destroy it. Remember, we fight for common rights; what we ask for onrselves, we willingly accord to othersfreedom under the Constitution and laws of our countrythe country of Washington and of Jackson. Assure Tennesseeans of this. Assure them that, foreseeing the waste and suP fering that must ensue from a state of anarchy, you stand ready to aid them in re-establishing and maintaining civil order. Tell them to assert their former rights against an arbitrary and cruel revolutionary party, that has ruined their State, impoverished their families, rendered their slave property insecure, if not altogether valueless; dragged their sons, fathers, and brothers from home, and caused their blood to be shed for a.n insane project, the success of which would be the proclamation of interminable war, and the death-knell of States rights as well as indi- vidual freedom and, if they are willing to help themselves, give them every assistance and protection consistent with your military duties. I. Officers and soldiers of the Army of the Cumberland: Some grave outrages and wrongs have been perpetrated on loyal citizens and help- less women, by lawless and unprincipled men, wearing our uniform and calling themselves soldiers. Such violation of orders disgraces our country and cause. I appeal to you by your honor, your love of country, and the noble cause in which you serve, to denounce and bring to pun- ishment all such offenders. Let not the slightest stain tarnish your brilliant record. Let no thief, pillager, or invader of the rights of person or property go unpunished. Remember that the truly brave and noble are always just and merciful, and that by a strict observance of orders you will crown your noble work, and establish your claims to the respect and gratitude of our country. II. Stragglers and marauders, separated from their commands with- out authority, who go thieving and pillaging around the country, are not entitled to the privileges of soldiers and prisoners of war. They are to be regarded as brigands, enemies of mankind, and are to be treated accordingly. Ill. Deserters, conscript agents, and prisoners of war desirous of abandoning the rebellion and becoming peaceable citizens, will be pa- roled as prisoners of war, and permitted to return to their homes, on giving bonds and security, or satisfactory assurance, for the faithful observance of their paroles, and will not be exchanged unless they vio- late their promises. IV. All citizens are invited to unite in restoring law and order, and in suppressing marauders and guerrillas. All privileges and protectio Page 185 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 185 compatible with the interests of the service will be accorded to those who are willing and give assurance, by their parole, oath, and bond, or other satisfactory voucher, that they will conduct themselves peaceably, and do no injury to the Government. 1~T Those claiming allegiance to the rebellion, or who cannot or will not give satisfactory assurance that they will conduct themselves peace- ably, are, on their own theory, by the law of nations bound to leave the country. This rule will hereafter be observed in such districts as come within our control, at the discretion of the commanding officer of troops in the district. VI. Persons desiring to vote, or to exercise any other right of citizen- ship, will be permitted to take the oath of allegiance, unless the coin- manding officer has reason to suppose a fraudulent futent on the part of such person. VII. Provost-marshals are authorized to parole prisoners of war, to administer the parole to non-combatants, and oath of allegiance to citizens, in accordance with the provisions of this order, under such instructions and limitations as may be prescribed by the provost- marshal-general, or the provost-marshals of corps or divisions detached or acting at inconvenient distances from their corps headquarters, reporting promptly a list of the names and description of all persons so paroled by them, with their bonds, if any have been given, to the provost-marshal-general of the army, at the headquarters of the de- partment, for record. By command of Major-General Bosecrans: J. BATES DICKSON, Assistant Adjutant- General. LoulsvmLE, March 28, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: The train carrying Twenty-fifth Indiana Battery to Lebanon was thrown from the track near Lebanon Junction this morning, and gun carriages and caissons completely destroyed. This accident willprevent the transportation of troops to Lebanon untillate to-night, when the road will be clear. Three regiments of Poes brigade will leave b~ railroad for Bardstown at 2 p. m. this evening. The two other regim will o to Lebanon to-night. Shall I order the forces at Lebanon to move to- ward Danville at once to co-operate with General Gillmore l They will be obliged to move without artillery. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE Onio, March 28, 18638.55 p. m. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky. : Your dispatch just received. Have your forces at Lebanon to-mor- row morning at daylight, and I will telegraph you some time during the night. Have the operators at Louisville and Lebanon on the lookout for a dispatch. General Gillmore has driven the enemy beyond Camp Dick Robinson, and is now in pursuit in the direction of Crab Orchard I expect further dispatches from him, and will telegraph you fully during the night. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General Page 186 1843 KY., MID. AND P. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXY. HEADQVARTERS DEPART: ENT OF THE OHIO, March 28, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: - I have notified General Gilimore that you will not be able to co-operate with him as promptly as I had hoped, and, without changing his orders, I simply directed him to use a little more care, and to communicate by his scouts with your advance from Lebanon as soon as he succeeds in occupying Danville. Push forward the troops as fast as possible, and require frequent reports from the advance, and transmit them to these headquarters. Tell the officer in command to keep his troops well in hand, and to make vigorous and concentrated attacks. A dispatch of last night, giving the composition of forces, was sent over the wires so badly that it was not very intelligible. Please have it repeated in military cipher. If Lieutenant Smyser does not obey your instructions, arrest him at once. There are plenty of men capable of filling his posi- tion. No officer is necessary to the department. I will telegraph him. His stores are subject to draft from General iRosecrans department, as well as from our own; but there should be no delay in any case. My aide, Major Cutting, will report to you to-day, and remain with you during the movement. Please communicate with him freely. He is perfectly reliable. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General, Commanding Department of the Ohio. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, March 28, 18638.10 p.m. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: General Gillmore will occupy Danville to-morrow, and will open com- munication with Lebanon. A. E. BUTINSIDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Louisville, Ky., March 28, 18639 p. m. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSJDE, Commanding Department of the Ohio: There are now at Lebanon, under command of General Manson, four regiments of infantry; aggregate, 1,500 men. Two regiments of Poes brigade leave Louisville for Lebanon by rail in the morning; will arrive about noon. There is also at Lebanon two regiments of cavalry; aggre- gate, 1,300. The Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, 700 strong, left Cave City for Lebanon yesterday morning; will arrive to-morrow. The accidents on railroad have interfered materially with the transportation of troops, but the road is now clear. The four-gun battery which arrived to-day from Indianapolis has only 70 men. The captain places no reliance in his men, and considers it unfit for the field. The batteries smashed up on the railroad last night will not be fitted up for several days. The Second ludiana Cavalry, which has been de- tained two days by failure of Lieutenant Smyser to furnish arms, will leave in the morniug for Lebanon, via Bardstown. Three regiments of Poes brigade left to-night by rail for Bardstown. BOYLE, - General, 6ommanding Page 187 CHA. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 187 GALT HOUSE, Louisville, March 28, 18634.30 p. in. Major-General BuRNSIDE.: Have just reported at headquarters here. General Bo~yle confined to his house by what may prove a serious illness. Nothing new since his dispatch this morning. Poes brigade is about starting, three regi- ments for Bardstown, two for Lebanon. No attack made from Lebanon. Awaiting your orders whether to advance without artillery. Poes brigade would have started early this morning, but the collision on the railroad has prevented it. General Boyle is too ill to see me. W. CUTTING, [Aide-dc. Camp.] MARCH 28 [f], 1863. [Major-General BuENSIiDE:] General Carter, between Hickman Bridge and Nicholasville, has 3,600 men, of which about 1,500 are mounted. This includes Wolfords undisciplined cavalry and 500 recruits. Carter has also a rifled battery and six mountain howitzers. Colonel Walker, at Winchester, has about 700 mounted men. There are 1,000 men at Frankfort. We have 1,500 men here, including convalescents, and about 600 men guarding ferries from Boonesborough to Clifton. Seven hundred on Kentucky Central Railroad. All the available force can be concentrated in half a day. I ask for orders to advance beyond the Kentucky, and pursue the enemy before he forms a junction with Cluke and Marshall. I have one and two.thirds battery here, and consider the place perfectly safe. Respectfully, GILLMORE. CAMP DICK RoBINSoN, March 28, 18636.20 p. m. Major-General BURNS~IDE: We lost no commissioned officer killed. My infantry is here and cav- alry in pursuit of enemy. Two bridges over Dicks River were burned. I go on to-night. Enemy gone toward Crab Orchard. Q. A. GJLLMORE, Brigadier- General. CAMP DICK ROBINSON, March 28, 186311 p. m. Major.General BURNSIDE: Dispatch just received. My infantry force is here. Mounted force between Lancaster and Stanford; probably stopped at Dicks River, where the bridge was burned. Shall occupy Lancaster at daybreak with infantry, and Danville some time in the forenoon. Only 100 or 200 of Clukes men crossed Red River, as far I as know. GILLMORE. HEADQUARTERS EASTERN DISTRICT OF KENTUCKY, Louisa, Ky., March 28, 1863. General Commanding Department of the Ohio: The enemy, under Humphrey Marshall, numbering 1,700, are en- camped 18 miles from here, on the West Liberty road, where he says he shall await artillery, and return to reduce this place Page 188 188 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. The position I have is a good one, but the line to be defended is over a mile in length. Marshall came up and looked at it, but declined at- tempting it without artillery. I shall hold with my present force, if possible, but another good regi- ment is much needed here. Can you let me have it, and, if so, immedi- ately~ Please answer by telegraph. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, March 28, 1863. Lieut. J. H. SMYSER, Commanding Ordnance Depot, Louisville, Ky.: You will make no purchase of arms under orders from General Boyle or General Wright, nor without express authority from the Chief of Ordnance or from this Department. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. CAIRo, March 29, 18632 p. m. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD: Those boats all move up the Tennessee River. Have telegraphed to commanding naval officer at Smithland, Ky., with the hope that gun- boats are at that place, as follows: W. S. Rosecraus desires to send 2,000 men from Nashville by boats up Tennessee River to Florence. Desires gnnboats to convoy them. Give them the convoy required without delay. Acknowledge receipt of this. Very cold to-day. A. N. PENKOCK, Fleet Captain and Commanding Station. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY.FIRST ARMY CoRPS, Miurfreesborough, Tenn., March 29, 186311.45 p. m. Brig. Gen. H. P. VAN CLEVE, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: The general commanding has received information tend. ing to show a probable attack on the forces at Cripple Creek and Ready- ville, both on the Murfreesborough, MeMinuville, or Woodbury pike. He therefore directs that you move at 3 a. m. to-morrow with two bri- gades and two batteries to Cripple Creek, the men to have two days rations in their haversacks, with 100 rounds ammunition. On arriving at Cripple Creek, you will at once communicate with Colonel Hazen at IReadyville; and unless you deem it necessary to move to Colone Page 189 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 189 ilazens aid, you will await further orders at Cripple Creek. Your pickets will not be disturbed, and the First Regiment, of Beattys bri- gade, will be left in camp. No tents or wagons. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, P. P. OLDERSHAW, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- GeneraL GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUI~IBERLAND, No. 63. ]Jfurfreesborough, Tenn., ]Jifarch 29, 1863. I. It has been ascertained that persons in this department are deal- ing in Confederate scrip, thus giving aid and comfort to the rebellion, by making its worthless paper an article of traffic. Any officer,soldier, camp follower, or citizen, within the limits of this department, who shall hereafter buy or sell Confederate currency or its counterfeits will be arrested and punished. II. Until further notice, the following regulations will be observed in regard to the purchase of cotton within the lines of this army: 1st. All citizens desiring to purchase cotton must present to the general corn inanding ample vouchers of unconditional loyalty to the Government of the United States, and sign an obligation to abide by the regulations herein prescribed. 2d. Immediately on making a purchase they must forward to the provost-marshal-general a statement of the name and place of residence of the producer and the seller, the number of bales purchased, the price to be paid, the amount paid at the time of purchase, and the amount still due. 3d. Whenever it can be done, without injury to the public service, they may be permitted, on presentation of the statement prescribed in the foregoing section, to ship the amounts named in such statements to Nashville. Every bale must, before shipment, be legibly marked with the name of the buyer and that of the seller. 4th. The party from whom the purchase was made will be permitted to receive ])ayment in full, on presenting to the provost-marshal-general proper evidence of loyalty, given under oath before any court of record, or any officer qualified to administer an oath. 5th. Until such evidence is presented and permission to make full payment is given, no purchaser shall pay more than 10 per cent. of the contract price. 6th. After settlement in full, in accordance with the foregoing regu- lations, permission will be given to ship beyond the limits of this de- partment. 7th. No permission to purchase cotton will be granted to any officer or soldier, sutler, or other person in the military service of the United States. All officers serving in this department are ordered to report promptly any violation of these orders which may come under their observation. Any cotton purchased contrary to the regulations herein prescribed will be seized and turned over to the quartermasters department, to be sold for the benefit of the Government. By command of Ma~or-General IRosecrans: C. GODDARD, A 8.SlStUnt Adjutant- Ucnera I Page 190 190 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, March 29, 1863. Maj. WILLIAM CUTTING, Gait House, Louisville, Ky: Is there any news from the front to-day ~ Gilimore crossed the river yesterday, and drove the enemy in the direction of Crab Orchard. Have the forces from Lebanon communicated with him yet? Say to General Boyle I wish the forces at Lebanon to co-operate with Gill. more. How is the general to-day? A. E. BURNSIDE. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHlo, Cincinnati, March 29, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: I have this moment telegraphed to Major Cutting, and he will give you the contents. Since then I have received yonr dispatches of this morning. I supposed General Manson had moved with a portion of his force at least. It is very desirable that he should co-operate with General Gilimore, with his cavalry at least, and cuit off or capture the herd of cattle. The following dispatch has been received from General Gillmore: CAMP DICK Ronu~so~, 9.33 a. m. Our forces and enemy encamped on opposite sides of Dicks River last night. Carter has orders to pursue, and will. A. E. BUENSIDE. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Louisville, March 29, 1863. (Received at Cincinnati, 6.30 p. in.) Major-General BURNSIDE: Your dispatch just received. General Boyle is better. I have seen him. Captain Semple, his assistant adjutant-general, telegraphed you to-day at 12 the dispatch he had just received from Gener~il Manson at Lebanon, that his men had taken Danville yesterday, the main body of the enemy having retired to Lancaster, and asking whether he shoukl leave his baggage and march upon Stanford, to cut off the retreat through Halls Gap. No answer has been received from you. We have nothing further from the front. All the caissons and carriages of the Indiana battery were destroyed by the collision. The guns will be brought in here to-night, and the battery remounted at once. AnQther Indiana battery arrived here yesterday, with four guns. It is reported unfit to take the field. Some of the men are not reliable. The two regiments of Poes brigade for Lebanon will reach there this afternoon or evening. The delay has been cansed by the destruction of locomo- tives and cars by the collision of yesterday. Your dispatch ordering Manson to move has just come in4.30 p. m. The order has been sent to Manson. This is the first order for Manson to move received from you. W. CUTTING, Aide-de-Camp. [Indor8ement.] P. S.Order for Manson to move was sent from this office, 3 p. rn. GRIFFIN, Operator Page 191 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 191 MARCH 29, 1863. [General BoYLE:] General Gilimore telegraphs: I liear Cluke is approaching Richmond,.and I will be in Lancaster before day with a force. Carter cant cross Dicks River to-night. GILLLMORE. A. E. BUIRNSIDE. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, March 29, 1863. General GILLMORE, Camp Dick Robinson, or in the Advance: The following dispatch has just been received from General Boyle: Telegram just received from General Manson, at Lebanon, says 100 men of the Ninth Kentucky Cavalry took Danville yesterday evening, killing 1 man and captnring 15. Main rebel force at Lancaster at 11 oclock yesterday, with 2,000 beeves. Had not Manson better move at once, withont baggage, to Stanford, via Hustonville, to prevent their retreat through Halls Gap? I have just ordered Manson to co-operate with you, with his cavalry at least, and cut off~ or capture the cattle. A. E. BURNSJDE. SPECIAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 112. f (incinnati, Ohio, March 29, 1863. * * * * * * * II. Colonel Bliss, commanding brigade, Ninth Army Corps, will pro- ceed with his command to Lexington, Ky., and will there report by tele- graph to General GiLlmore for orders. The quartermasters department will provide the necessary transportation. By order of Major-General Burnside: W. P. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, March 30, 1863. Major-General BOSECRANS, Murfreesborough: GENERAL: Your telegram in regard to General Johnson indicates very plainly that you have not duly considered my letter of the 20th instant. General Johnson was not appointed a brigadier-general to command a brigade in the field, but to be made military governor of the State of Tennessee, to organize and administer the civil government of that State until a constitutional government could be organized. Your relations to the government so organized are plainly and distinctly pointed out in my letter of instructions. Moreover, you were notified of the wishes of the War Department in regard to the military command which it was expected you would give to General Johnson. Your sug- gestion that he should report to you at Gallatin for a command in the field was in direct opposition to the wishes of the Government, as com- municated to you by me, and was received by the War Department with marked dissatisfaction. Very respectfully, your obedient servant Page 192 192 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washingtoa City, March 30, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Teun.: The Secretary of War directs me to inform you that to-day 1,400 Gal- laghers carbines, 150 Sharps carbines, 226 Smiths ca~rbines, and 500 Burnsides carbines, in all 2,276 carbines, with accouterments complete, have been forw~Irded to you, directed to Nashville, Tenn. We have on hand 792 sets of horse equipments of the Ranger pattern, 496 of the Grimsley pattern, and 2,000 of the ordinary citizens pattern, in all 3,288 sets of good, substantial, new horse equipments, very suitable for mount- ing infantry, which can be sent immediately, if you desire it; and in a very short time from 2,000 to 4,000 sets of the new cavalry pattern can be sent to you to mount cavalry. Shall either or both be sent ~ How many pistols, if any, do you want ~ P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. MURFREESEOROUGH, TENN., March 30, 1863. P. II. WATSON: Thanks for the arms ordered. Please send us 6,000 Colts pistols (new pattern), and all the horse equipments mentioned, including citi. zens saddles, soon as possible. W. S. ROSECIRANS, ]Jfajor- General. MARCH 30, 1863. Brig. Gen. iR. B. MITCHELL, Nashville: You are authorized and directed to revoke all safeguards on wood needed for the public service, using your judgment as to which ones to commence with. By order of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. GALLATIN, March 30, 18634.30 p. m. Brigadier.General GARFIELD: GENERAL: Within twenty-four hours 60 rebels have crossed Cum- berland River in canoes, swimming their horses, this side of llartsville; 17 between llartsville and stone honse, and quite a number between stone house and Carthage. They got back into the high hills be- tween the river and the Kentucky line, and crossed the river little north of this town, going into Robertson County. Some have crossed below Nashville, and are scattered through the country between this and Springfield. 1 hourly expect they will attack the railroad from 20 to 40 miles north of this. E. A. PAiNE, Briqadier- General Page 193 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESrONDENeE, ETC.UNJON. 193 MIJRFREESBOROUGH, ]Jfareh 30, 18631.30 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE: Hearty greeting and welcome. Want to know if you cant take the line of the (Dnmberland or put a strong force at Tompkinsville. Have best assurance attainable, from constant papers to and fro to the East Tennessee Valley, that no substantial infantry or large cavalry force passed from our front into Kentucky. What can and will you do to cuter East Tennessee? Yours, truly, W. S. ROSECT~ANS. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, March 30, 1863. Major-General liOSECRANS, Murjreesborough, lenin.: Many thanks for your very cordial greeting. I am glad to be nearer to you, and will certainly do all in my power to co-operate with you. My troops are arriving, and by to-morrow I will be able~ to telegraph you more definitely. I shall occupy the line of the Cumberland as soon as possible, and hope to pass into East Tennessee. A. E. BUI~NSJDE, Major- General, Commanding Department of the Ohio. WASHINGTON, ID. C., March 30, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: General Schenek has received advices that there is a rebel force on the Big Sandy, threatening the Kanawha Valley. You must look to this, and not let the enemy turn the Kanawha from the Kentucky line. II. W. JIALLECK, General-in- Chief. UNOFFICIAL.] HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, Washington, D. C., March 30, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati: GENERAL: The Paymasters Department is (lependent npon the War and Treasury Departments, but under the immediate direction of the former. I, as General-in-Chief, have but very little to do with it. The Paymaster-General reports directly to the Secretary of War for orders. His general instructions are to pay first those lon~est unpaid. Any variation from this rule must be by the special orders of the Secretary. Any interference with the officers or duties of the Pay Department, is therefore, looked upon by the War Department as an assumption of authority on the part of any general in the field, and as calculated to disarrange the regular transaction of business. My advice is that you confine yourself in regard to this department to repdrts on any irregu- larity or neglect of duty which may come under your observation. it is reported in the newspapers that you have formed Indiana into a separate military district, placing General Carrington in command. The Secretary of War is of opinion that General Carrington is entirely 13 R RYOL XXIII, PT I Page 194 194 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. unfitted for such a command. From my conversations with Governors Tod and Morton, I think the Secretary is right. I do not know General Carrington personally, but, from the best information I can get of him, he has not sufficient judgment and brains to qualify him for the posi. tion. He has never been tried in the field. Perhaps he may do better there. I know that the War Department has very little confidence in him. He owes his promotion entirely to political influence. Your headquarters are fixed nominally at Cincinnati; but it is not intended that you should confine yourself to that place. If your troops are concentrated in Central Kentucky (as I have advised), 1 think it would be more satisfactory to the Government that you go there in person to take the command. The principal objection to General Wright was that he avoided the field, where his presence might have been of great advantage. These hints are hastily thrown out, not as directions, but subjects for your consideration. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. LANCASTER, March 30, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: GENERAL: I have just arrived here. General Gillmore, at 8 a. in., was at Buck Creek, 10 miles from Somerset by the Crab Orchard road, with Seventh Ohio Cavalry, First Kentucky Cavalry, and 400 men of the Forty-fourth and Forty-fifth Ohio Mounted Infantry. Colonel Doolittles brigade is between here and Crab Orchard, marchin gfor- ward. Colonel Carter and Colonel Gilbert are here, with about 1,200 men. Firing was heard from the direction of Somerset at 11 oclock this morning. It is iiot known whether it was Gillmore or a force mov- ing from Lebanon. I obtain these particulars from Colonel Carter, who states it is unsafe to go up without an escort. The enemys force is estimated at 8,000 at the outside; all cavalry, and very poorly appointed. They have a large drove of cattle, and move slowly. They are thought to have been headed off by Gillmore, and to be moving toward Stanford, to get to Somerset and cross the Cumberland. Cluke is still southeast of here, and if more men could be crossed and put here, it would make our communications secure, as we cant move forward from here without endangering them. DUNCAN A. PELL, (aptain and Aide de Camp. CAIRO, March 30, 1863 [1862 i~. Major-General HALLECK: Visited Columbus to-day; examined the works. The bluffs cm be easily fortified against river approaches, and the outworks against land attacks. I think I have guns enough to render an approach formidable. The place is now garrisoned by two ligbt batteries, under Lieutenant- Colonel [W. L.] puff, and the Fifty-fourth Illinois Volunteers, Colonel Harris. The artillery is good and effective, but not the infantry. A garrison of at least fi,000 men will be required. Two of the outworks must be held. The machinery for forcing water to the summit can be easily set in order; also magazines. Four guns arrived here toda Page 195 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 195 from Pittsburgh. Shall take mechanics down to-morrow and set them at work. Lieutenant-Colonel Duff is a very effective and energetic of- ficer, and will render valuable assistance. Colonel Harris is not a good commanding officer. A large force is required at once for preparing batteries to receive guns; also intrenching tools. S. C. LYFORD, Lieutenant Ordnance, U. ~S. Army. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, March 31, 186311.20 a. m. Major-General RosEcRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: Your abandonment of Fort ileiman is not approved by the Secretary of War, who has ordered it to be reoccnpied by General Grant. It will hereafter belong to General Grants department. II. W. HALLECK General-in~ 6hief. FRANKLIN, March 31, 1863. Major-General iROSECRANS: Dispatch received. I think it pr ~bable that Forrest, Starnes, and Wharton have gone in the direction of Cumberland River, but have no positive information to that effect. Prisoners captnred to-day report that Forrest has gone somewhere on a scout, but (10 not know where. To-days operations show a considerable force of cavalry and artillery in our front. G. GRANGE R, Major- General. FRANKLIN, March 31, 1863. Colonel GODDARD: The men captured at Brentwood were of the Twenty-second Wiscon- sin and Nineteenth Michigan. I have some 400 men of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana with me, but cannot possibly spare them for Governor Morton or any one else. G. GItANGER, ]liajor- General. GALLATIN, March 31, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of ~Staff: GENERAL: A messenger arrived last night informing me that the rebels are still crossing. A party crossed between here and Nashville. I sent a party after them. They are concentrating about llartsville. Either they intend to attack General Crook or to go into Kentucky and attack the railroad, and thence to Eastern Kentucky. They have planted two cannon on a bend of the Cumberland, so as to command the stream up and down. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier-General Page 196 196 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CI!AP. XXXV. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, Mia-rch 31, 1863. Major-General BITRNSIDE, Cincinnati: Your proposed assignment of Brigadier-General Mason is approved. Your proposed disposition of secesh women is also approved. They should be cleared out and sent home. The telegram you mention as being sent yesterday did not reach here. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. SPECIAL ORDERS, No. 114. IIDQRs. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, March 31, 1863. * * * * * * * II. Colonel Clark, with his brigade, now in this city, and a battery of the Second Division, will proceed to Paris, Ky., and there assume coin- mand.- The quartermasters department will furnish the necessary transportation. III. General Ferrero will make his headquarters at Lexington, Ely. * * * * *. * * By order of Major-General Burnside: W. P. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant- General. Abstract from return of the Department of the Cumberland, Maj. Gen. William S. Rose- crans commanding, for the month of March, 1863; headquarters Afurfreesborough, Tenn. Present for -~ ~ ~ Pieces of duty. o ~ artillery. a Command. $ a aa a bIJ ~5~ bE - n ES a ~ a . ~ -a F~ ~ a ~ bE ES bE a a bE bE bE Q ~ Department staff 10th Ohio, Col. Joseph W. Burke 1st Battalion Ohio Sharpshooters, Capt. Ger- shorn MI. Barber. Total Fourteenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas: Staff 9th Michigan, Col. John G. Parkhurst First Division, Maj. Gen. Lovell H. Rous- seau. Second Division, Maj. Con. James S. Keg- by. Third Division, Brig. Gen. James B. Steed- man. Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. Jas. D. Mor~an. Fifth Division, Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Rey- nolds. Total Fourteenth Army Corps 14 20 30 20 18 105 552 684 706 9 189 291 168 27 584 843 1,052 706 6 6 7 50 23 315 460 511 524 183 6, 478 8, 423 12, 249 12, 127 .... -. 18 209 5, 557 7, 070 9, 164 9, 695 18 371 7,154 8,718 11,018 10,270 ..~. 16 298 4, 975 6, 222 7, 662 7, 910 12 207 3,790 4,997 6,441 6,443 16 1,589 28,27~ 35,896 47274 47048 ~.j 8 Page 197 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 197 Abstract from return of the Department of the Cumbertand, 4e.Contintied. Present for duty. Command. 4 n a aD aD Pieces of artillery. ~ a a an aD aD -1 S 215 112 245 Tiventietli Army Corps, Maj. Gen. A. Mcli). MeCook: Staff First Division, Brig. Gen. J. C. Davis Second Division. Brig. Gen. IR. W. Johnson.. Third Division, Maj. Gen. Philip H. Sheridan Total Twentieth Army Corps Twenty-first Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Thomas J. Wood: Staff First Division, Col. George D. Wagner Second Division, Maj. Gen. John NI. Pal. mer. Third Division, Brig. Gen. Horatio P. Van Cleve. Total Twenty-first Army Corps United States forces, Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger: Staff (Franklin, Tean. I Brig. Gen. Absalom Bairds division Brig. Gen. Charles C. Gilberts divisboL Brig. Gen. George Crooks division (Carthaae, Tenn.) Cavalry (escort) Total Major-General Grnngers command. Forces nt Nashville, Brig. Gen. Robert B 137 Mitchell. Forces at Gallatin, Brig. Gen. Eleazer A. Paine 128 Forces at Clarksvilie, Col. William P. Boone 70 Forces at Fort Donelson, CoL William W. Lowe.. 121 En,,ineerss, Mechanics, and Pioneers Brigade, General J. St. Clair Morton, commanding: 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics 22 Artillery attached to Pioneers 10 Pioneer Brigade 63 Signal Corps, Capt. Jesse Merrill*... - 32 Convalescents at Nashville,* 25 Convaleseents at Gallatin~ 4 Anderson Cavalry, Col. William J. Palmer 25 Cavalry Division, Maj. Gen. David S. Stanley.... 372 3, 893 4,813 4, 201 797 12, 909 5 4, 959 6, 101 5, 330 16, 401 5 7, 817 JO, 141 8, 247 26,410 7 8, 158 10, 598 8, 579 27, 342 18 16 18 52 10 10 11 11 279 4,604 5,676 8,747 9,181 18 218 4, 361 5, 533 8, 441 8, 833 22 229 3,780 4,819 7,831 8,307 18 776 12, 665 16, 018 25, 030 26, 332 58 7 7 7 6. 173 3,170 4,083 7,79 7,154 32 131 2,249 3,122 4,394 4,657 6 116 2, 274 3, 132 3, 864 4, 664 6 3 75 78 93 93 ...... 430 7,768 10,422 16,097 10,574 I 24 2, 583 2, 271 1,11)7 2, 116 464 285 1,467 71 1, 225 190 461 5, 917 3, 117 3, 004 1,651 2, 760 638 312 1, 974 110 2, 219 209 560 7, 946 3,761 3,741 1,821 3, 098 854 353 2, 787 122 ~ 135 210 802 11, 033 1,921 4, 302 3, 624 3, 151 867 254 2, 926 117 3, 279 519 10, 408 25 10 9 4 2 14 19 I RECAPITULATION. Department staff 10th Ohio and 1st Battalion Ohio Sharpshooters... Fonrteenth Army Corps Twentieth Army Corps . Twenty.first Army Corps Major-General Grangers command Forces at IN ashville Forces at Gallatin Forces at Clarksville Forces at Fort Donelson 1st Michi~an Engineers and Mechanics Artillery attached to Pioneers Anderson Cavalry Cavalry Division Total 14.518 52 58 - 24 25 10 4 2 14 19 2 77, 405 99, 623 141, 356 142, 558 27 272 * Not added in total. ChAP. XXXV.] 14 20 30 29 27 584 813 1,052 706 1, 589 28, 275 35, 896 47, 274 47, 048 797 12, 919 10, 401 20. 410 2~, 342 776 12,605 16,038 25,030 26,332 430 7, 768 10, 422 16, 097 16, 574 137 2,583 3,117 3,761 1,921 128 2, 271 3, 00t 3, 741 4, 302 70 1, 1(17 1, 651 1, 821 3, 624 121 2,116 2,766 3,098 3,151 22 464 638 8S4 867 10 28S 312 333 254 25 461 S69 802 372 5,917 7,946 11,033 10,40 Page 198 198 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Abstract from return of the Department of the Ohio, Moj. Gen. Ambroae E. Burnside commanding, for the month of March, 1~63; headquarters Cincinnati, Ohio. Present for ~ ~ Pieces of duty. ~ w artillery. Command. ,~ .~ C ~C5 ~. 3 ~ ~ Department staff (Cincinnati, Ohio) District of Western Kentucky, Brig. Gen. J. T. Boyle: Seff (Louisville, Ky.) Bowling Green and Russeilville, Brig. Gen. Henry M. Judah. Munfordville, & c., Brig. Gen. Edward H. Hobson. Lebanon. Henderson, Lebanon, Louisville, & c Total District of Western Kentucky.... District of Eastern Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Julius White: Staff (Louisa, Ky.) Troops in district Total District of Eastern Kentucky Cincinnati, Lieut. Col. Seth Eastman Covington. Col. Jackson A. Lucy Newport Barracks, Lient. Col. Seth Eastman Total Cincinnati, Covington, & c Camp Dennison, Ohio, Lieut. Col. George W. Neff Camp Chase, Ohio, CoL August V. Kauta Columbus, Ohio, Lieut. James P. W. Neill Total Camps Dennison and Chase and Columbus... District of Central. Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Q. A. Gilimore: Staff (Laxington, Ky.) Lexington, Ky Paris, Ky Mount Sterling, Ky Danville, Ky Total District of Central Kentucky I Camp Douglas, fll., Brig. Gen. Jacob Ammen Camp Butler, fll., CoL Wiiliam F. Lynch 33 33 34 10 8 18 18 163 2,512 3,745 4,769 2 168 2,614 3,239 5,169 5 4 40 768 956 1,502 ..... 180 3,262 4,097 5,6i~ 2 8 561 9, 164 12, 055 17, 134 7 14 5 5 5. 63 1,081 1,677 2,100 4 68 1,081 1,682 2,105 4 16 154 258 531 31 590 765 799 4 157 219 222 51 901 1,242 1,552 24 418 Silt 699 35 785 1,031 1,186 4 128 157 167 63 1,331 1,758 2,052 10 10 11 186 4,220 5,337 6,199 i4 72 1,389 1,641 2,519 33 670 989 1,134 24 420 483 853 325 6,699 8,460 10,716 14 87 1,149 1,633 31 626 891 Total Camps Douglas and Butler 118 1, 775 2, 524 2, 092 1, 317 3, 409 I RECAPITULATION. Department staff 33 33 34 Districtof Western Kentucky 561 9,164 12, 055 17, 134 7 j4 District of Eastern Kentucky 68 1, 081 1, 682 2, 105 4 Cincinnati, Covington & c 51 901 1242 i 1,552 ... Camps Dennison and Chase and Columbus 6.3 I 1, 3M ~ 758 I 2, 052 . . District of Central Kentucky . hiS 6, 699 8, 460 10, 716 14 Camps Douglas and Butler 118 1, 775 2, 524 3,409 Total 1,219 20, 951 27, 754 37, 002 7 32 WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, April 1, 1863 Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, ]Jliurfreesborough, Tenn.: The following supplies have gone forward to you by fast conveyance, namely: Five tiloilsand sets of horse equipments, 6,000 Colts pistols Page 199 CHAP. XXXV.] 199 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 10,000 Enfleld rifle muskets. The balance of the 5,000 carbines will be sent as fast as they can be inspected, say within ten days. Do you want any sabers ~ P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. MURFREESBOROIJGH, TENN., April 1, 18639 p. m. Hon. P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War: Thanks again for arms and promptitude. I took the Gallagher car- bines without objection, not looking a gift-horse in the month, but the new Sharps with bayonet, or the Colts revolving rifle, are the only ones the Government ought to bny. Please send us 3,000 sibers, with belts and plates complete. W. S. ROSECRAINS, 4Ic~jor- General CARTHAGE, TENN., April 1, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, ]Iiliurfreesborough, Ienn.: One of my spies returned from the enemys camp at Liberty this morning. He left there last night. His father is a Union man, and lives near their camp. He says that some of their small regiments have been consolidated, and they now have six regiments, numbering between 2,500 and 3,000 cavalry, all told, and one battery of artillery. He also gave me the position of the camps of each regiment. This information has been corroborated by so many reliable sources that I have no doubt of its accuracy. I can take sufficient force from hereleaving enough to hold this placeand whip them, but I could not accomplish anything, as they would merely retreat out of my reach. If you could send a force to Snow Hill so as to cut off their retreat, and let me know when you want me to make the attack, it will be done at any hour you mention. Lib- erty is some 24 miles from here. The courier will wait at Gallatin for your reply. I am getting along well with my works here. I have no apprehensions for my safety. I am afraid to send my small band of cavalry south of the river, as the rebels are watching to pick it up with their superior numbers. I sent boats some 14 miles up the river day before yesterday, foraging, and sent them down below- Rome yesterday after wood. Saw nothing of the rebels. Please answer at once. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. APRIL 1, 1863. Brigadier-General Cnooic, Carthage, via Gallatin: General Spears brigade is en route to join you. A force sufficient to close up the Liberty business will reach that place to-morrow. I tele- graphed you yesterday about it. Another force went from here yeste Page 200 200 ICY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [C~TAP. XXXV. day, to go by way of Lebanon and Alexandria, and co-operate with the one moving on Liberty. We hope to hear good results in a short time. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier. General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIRST ARMY CORPS, lJfurfreesborough, Tenn., April 1, 1863. Brig. Gen. H. P. VAN CLEVE, Gommanding Third Dirision: Sin: The general commanding directs that you detail Col. Stanley Matthews, and his brigade of infantry and two sections of artillery, with five days rations, to report to General Stanley on Liberty pike at daybreak to-morrow. The men will be supplied with 100 rounds of am- munition, and will take their shelter tents, the ol~ject being to go as light as possible. By order of Brigadier-General Wood: P. P. OLDERSHAW, Captain and Assistant A~jutant- General. CORINTh, April 1, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: If General Iluribut will permit, I will co-operate and take the place, or give you such support as you may desire. The enemy are rebuild- ing all the bridges from Savannah east and from Florence north, and are increasing their forces east of me. Three gunboats have gone up the river to-day. Is it your desire to take and hold the place perma- nently, or only for temporary purposes l In Wayne and Lauderdale Counties there are several bodies of cavalry, and at or near Mount Pleasant quite a large force. I am ready and willing to do all in my power to aid you, but you will have to get General Hurlbuts sanction. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. MEMPHIS, April 1, 1863. Brig. Gen. N. B. BUFORD, Cairo - - I send you the within dispatch just received from General Dodge. Furnish copy to Captain Pennock, fleet captain, and telegraph to Rose- crans. There is a pretty heavy show of cavalry on the left of our line, below Corinth and southeast of La Grange, and about 4,000, with two bat- teries, south of the Tennessee; headquarters at Florence. Your obedient servant, S. A. IIURLBUT, ]Ilajor- General. [Inclosure.] CORINTH, April 1, 1863. The enemy are repairing all the bridges from Savannah east and Florence north. They are also building a lar~e number of boats in several of the creeks. They also guard the line of the river from Florence to Duck River, and now have heavy bodies of cavalry massed near Mount Pleasant. Three gunboats have gone up the river. C. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General Page 201 CHAP. XXXV.J COT?RE8PONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 201 Indorsement. j Maj. Gen. W. S. JIOSECRANS: MEMPHIS, April 1, 1863. The above movements can only be to recross the Tennessee upon my line. If so, I request they may be followed sharply. S. A. ITUJILBUT, Major- General. OFFICE CHIEF OF ARMY POLICE, Hon. E. M. STANTON, Nashville, April 1, 1863. Secretary of War, Washington: SIR: This letter will be handed to you by Dr. A. 0. Habig, who has been in the service of the Government in this department of the army, and has rendered very important services. In the course of onr investigations here we have found very good reasons to believe that there is a person in the War Department, at Washington, deeply in the interest of the Confederate authorities and in communication with them. I have made Dr. Habig acquainted with the facts obtained here, and he comes to Washington, under very favor- able circumstances, to reach and develop the character of the person alluded to in your Department. I have given Dr. Habig such instruc- tions and such information as will, [think, enable him to accomplish his object. He is now direct from Major-General Braggs headquarters, and has evidences of his late departure from the Confederate Army. The information obtained in regard to the person in your Department was developed in the arrest and examination of two persons holding positions in this army, who were in the interest and employ of the Con- federate authorities. All the facts and circumstances will soon be for- warded to you. Dr. Habig is a reliable gentleman and will object of his mission. , I hope, succeed in the Very respectfully, your obedient servant, WM. TJIUESDAIL, Chief of Army Police. U. S. GtJ~BOAT LEXINGTON, Brig. Gen. G-. M. DODGE, April 1, 1863. Commanding United States Jf& rces, Corinth, Miss.: GENERAL: I have just returned from a trip up toward Florence. I find a great many of the enemys cavalry near Tuscumbia Landing. There was not water enough for this boat to get over Coulters Shoals, but I sent a couple of light boats above. They approached to within a few hundred yards of Floreace, and found the enemy in considerable force, with a small battery. As the river was hilling so fast, they were obliged to returii below the Shoals the same (lay. We captured some 15 or 20 of their horses and guns. If the river remains as high as it is at present, I propose to bring up four or five light-draught gunboats and try their batteries. If they have a heavy gun, we will soon know it after we get there. 1 expect to return here as soon as we get coaled and more ammunition, which will be in a few days. I may bring with me a small force of infantry ai~d a transport or two. If you feel like c Page 202 202 KY., MID. AND t. WNN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. operating, I will provide means for crossing cavalry at Savannah, or for carrying infantry up with me. I will be happy to hear from you on my return, aud will do all I can to co-operate with or lend you any aid. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, LEROY FITCH, ~Jomdg. Gunboats, Tennessee, Cumberland, and Ohio Rivers. WASHINGTON, April 1, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Gait House: I cannot at present withdraw either officers or men from the Army of the Potomac. Order sending Brigadier-General Tillson to yon was not correct. He is for any dnty you may put him on. H. W. HALLECK, Commander-in- Chief. MURFREESEORoUGII, April 1, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: I have seventeen Kentucky regiments, brave, tried, and true, some of whom, probably all, would fill up right away if on duty within the State, for the defense of which they are bound to shed the last drop of their blood. If you could exchange some equally good regiments in return, I believe the service would be doubly benefited. What say you? The exchange on your part would be a forward movement, and cover the railroad. W. S. ROSECRAKS, ]liliajor- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, No. 149. Washington, April 1, 1863. * * * * * * * VIII. Brig. Gen. Thomas Welsh, U. S. Volunteers, will repair with- out delay to Cincinnati, Ohio, and report to Major-General Burnside for duty- in the Department of the Ohio. By command of Major-General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, April 2, 1863. Col. C. W. CIIAPMAN, La Vergue: Information, believed to be reliable, received that 800 rebels crossed Lebanon pike, 8 miles north of Stones River, going toward railroad, with avowed intention of cutting it. It is thought that the number 15 exaggerated, and will not probably exceed 3*10 men. Look out for them, and notify Stewarts Creek garrison and bridge guards. Colonel Wilder, with large force, is between them and their line of retreat. If you can drive them off, he will bag them. By order of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant A djutant- General Page 203 CHAP. XXXV.j CORRESPONDENCE, FTC .UNION. 203 FnM~KLlN, April 2, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Van iDorn was still at Spring Hill yesterday, cooking rations last night for a scout, I suppose. Our cavalry had slight skirmish on Car- ter Creek pike, and are out again to-day. Is there any prospect of my retaining Gilbert ~ G. GRANGER, Major- General. NASHVILLE, April 2, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Rebels captured a labor train, 4 miles north of Franklin, Ky., two hours since, and threw engine off track, and cut telegraph line; object supposed to be capture of freight train from north due there at about this time. Passenger train from here held at Gallatin. Report is brought to Frank- lin by negro, who escaped. Force of rebels not known. J. C. VAN DUSER, A ssistant Superintendent. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLUMBUS, April 2, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: I am directed by General Huribut to forward by telegraph the follow- ing communication: Scouts in from Mount Pleasant and Lawrenceburg, Tenn., report about 1,500 cavalry at Lawrenceburg, and large force at Mount Pleasant, which has fallen back to Lowry- yule; one brigade at Waynesborough. Most of these forces belong to Van Dorns com- mand, and are scattered out to obtain forage and subsistence. Everything not needed for supply of his troops, Johnstou has sent to the rear. It is the common rumor that Johnston will fall back. They report heavy skirmishing in front of Shelbyville, in which rebels lost 500, in killed wonnded, and missing. The scouts also say it is talked among Van Dorns men that they are to return to Mississippi. He was with them two weeks. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- Gencral, Commanding District. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. CORINTH, April 2, 1863. Capt. HENRY BINMORE, Assistant Adjutant- General: The gunboats Lexington, Silver Lake, and Robb shelled rebels out of Florence Tuesday. Two batteries, one on each side of river, replied to them. They destroyed the cotton factories this side of Florence, and report about 2,000 rebels in that vicinity. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF J2HE OHIO, No. 33. Cincinnati, Ohio, April 2, 1863. Brig. Gen. Davis Tillson, U. S. Volunteers, is appointed chief of ar- tillery for the fortifications in this department. He is charged with the organiza~tiOn and instruction of the garrisons, and with completing th Page 204 204 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. armament and outfit of the forts and I)ermanent batteries of the de- partment. His headquarters will be at Covington, Ky. He will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. NASHVILLE, April 3, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Colonel Boone telegraphs from Clarksville as follows: The fleet gunboat St. Clair, and transports Eclipse, Luminary, and Lizzie Martin were fired into at Palmyra. Gunboat and Luminary perhaps taken. The Eclipse arrived here disabled; reports the advance of rebels on this place. We will hold until re-enforced. WM. P. BOONE. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General. NASHVILLE, April 3, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: I have just received the following dispatch from Clarksville: Scouts report the gunboat and Luminary escaped capture. The rebels are at Pal- myra in force; have there a rifled 6 and smooth 12 pounder, and other caliber not ascertained. We must have the siege guns ordered for this post. Send them at once. WM. P. BOONE. I have ordered the siege guns down. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General, Commanding. APRIL 3, 1863. Major-General GRANGER, Franklin: The.tleet was attacked at Palmyra last night by the rebels, who bad six pieces of artillery. Have you any more news in regard to the force in your front? General Dodge reports the rebels building bridges east of Savannah and north of Florence, and bnilding flat-boats all along from Florence to the mouth of Duck River, and holding the line of the Tennessee between those points. There seems to be a considerable force at Palmyra.. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. FRANKLIN, TENN., April 3, 1863. General GARFIELD: Dispatch received. it is impossible for me to say, but judge from the force in our front, I dont think over 1,500, with probably two I)ieces of artillery. Cox and Dean [?] are supposed to be the party on the Cum- berland; it is possible that force is there also, as I have not been able to procure anything from there for several days. G. GRANGER, Major- General Page 205 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 205 CARTHAGE, TENN., April 3, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAl~IEs A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army qf the (Jumberland, Murfreesborough, [Penn.: I send three regiments of infantry and Murphys cavalry in the direc- tion of Liberty to-night, to co-operate with the forces from Murfrees~ borough. I sent an expedition down the river, which returned yesterday, to search for the two guns reported there to capture my boats, but could find or hear nothing of them, and, npon this information, I sent the Delaware with the gunboat last night to Nashville, to have some repairs made to the former that cant be done here. I will be ready to ferry Spears troops at any time. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, April 3, 1863. W. H. HOLLOWAY, Esq., Private Secretary to Governor ]Iiliorton, Indianapolis, md.: SIR: The general commanding directs me, in reply to your letter of 23d nitimo, in relation to the uncaptured men of the Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Regiments Indiana Volunteers, to say that there are now on duty about 400 men belonging to these two regiments, and that he cannot consistently with the interests of the service order so large a body of men back to Indiana. Van Dorn made a large draft upon the effective force of these regiment~, backed by arguments too powerful for successful resistance; but the general desires to keep those who remain to aid in a reprisal, which he hopes to make ere long. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. GODDARD, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. CoRINTH, April 3, 1863. Major-General HURLBUT: General Rosecrans desires me to move on Tuscumbia at the same time he ddes on Florence, and have our forces meet. He asks this in men- tioning raid he is about to make; says it is necessary for his success. It will be a terrible blow to the enemy near our lines, and I will carry out my part of it by again taking Tuscumbia,if it meets your views. Can make the one south afterward. Please answer to-night, so that I can answer General Rosecrans. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTh ARMY CORPS, Memphis, [Penn., April 3, 1863. Brig. Gen. GRENYILLE M. DODGE, Corinth, Miss.: Move as requested by General Rosecrans, with force enough to do it thoroughly. Keep me advised when you move, and send the plan of movements by safe messenger. Acknowledge receipt. Your obedient servant, ~. A. HURLBUT, Major- General Page 206 206 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV COIlINTH, April 3, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Will move on Tuscumbia, and take it, in connection with you. Shall have to move with infantry and artillery. Will have to bridge Little and Big Bear Rivers; therefore let me know in time, so I can co-operate, and be sure of success. It will take three or four days for dispatch to reach me. Had not your forces by river better communicate with Paducab, that we may be sure to start together ~ Do not believe gun- boats succeeded in driving out enemy or silencing batteries at Florence. Heavy gunboats conld not pass Coulters Shoals. Will co-operate as you deem best, and carry out your plans. Please acknowledge receipt of dispatch. DODGE, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, April 3, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio- You will direct any officer you may have placed temporarily in charge of the ordnance depot at Louisville to make no purchases of supplies and to make no issues without specific authority from the Ordnance Office here. By order of the Secretary of War: P. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington 6ity, April 3, 1863. Captain GAY, In Charge of Ordnance Depot, Louisville, Ky.: You will purchase no supplies, and issue none, with out express au- thority from this Department or from the Ordnance Bureau in Washing- ton. If you need instructions, apply from time to time, by telegraph, for them to Brigadier-General [James W.] Ripley, Chief of Ordnance. P. H. WATSON,. Assistant Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 3, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati or Louisville: You will immediately relieve General Boyle from his command ,and direct him to report in person to the Secretary of War, in Washington. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. APRIL 3, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington: The following just from Boyle: General Manson telegraphs that Jacobs whole force is across river, except rear guard. River barely fordable, so Qarter cannot cross. I will order Jacob to recros Page 207 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 207 to this side. Manson says citizens report rebels crossing to this side at Rowena. If you do not approve, instruct me. It is between 25 and 30 miles from Jacobs to Waits- borough. BOYLE. I approve the order of General Boyle. Please communicate to Carter. A. E. BUIRNSJDE. MURFRBESBOROUGH, TENN., April 4, 18632.20 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Colonel Harrison, of the Thirty-ninth Indiana, has 200 men at Indian- apolis ready to come to me. Can you not give Governor Morton 200 Sharps breech-loading carbines to arm these men, that they may act as guards to boats coming np the river ~ W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 4, 18637.45 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Only military movements known of rebels yesterday was raid on our transportation at Palmyra and firing on boat at Harpeth Shoals. No boats captured or lost. Have an expedition of cavalry and infantry after Morgan, toward Smithville. May go to McMinnville. Been out three days. Propose to send 1,500 men, nuder an able officer, to go to Eastport, joined by two brigades from Corinth, to capture Tuscumbia, cover my party, and cut and destroy the Georgia Railroad. Have tele- graphed Hurlbut to know if he will co-operate. General Dodge reports rebels working roads north from Florence and east from Savannah. Says rebels are operating for supplies. IVEy great difficulty is to get horses. When I can mass a mounted force to destroy their cavalry, I shall be ready to march. Troops in fine condition. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF TIlE CUMBERLAND, ]Jiturfreesborough, April 4, 1863. Hon. E. N. STANTON: (For Gov. Andrew Johnson.) From letters from the War Department, there seems to be an im- pression that there has been some conflict between your authority and the military power here. You know very well how often I have as- sured you I would do all I could to build np and support civil authority, and aid you in every way in my power. Please communicate to me fully and freely all matters of conflict and complaint, and be assured I will rectify, or show you decisive public reasons for not doing so. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Please open and communicate, if Governor Johnson is not in Wash. ington. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General Page 208 208 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [0114. XXXV. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 4, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLEcK, General-in- Chief: Your letter of the 30th ultimo received. I assure you I have done all I J)ossibly could, consistently with military safety, to build up and sustain the civil authority wherever I have had command, especially in Tennessee. No one appreciates the sacrifice and the delicate and try- ing position of Governor Johnson more than J (10. I have done, and will do, all in my power to give him aid and comfort; but Nashville is an inclosed garrison, and my grand depot. It is full of traitors and spies, and to it go all the rascals and speculators that follow an army. I am, therefore, obliged to have it commanded by an able and experi- enced officer, and to exercise a most rigid military policy; but am not aware of, nor do I believe there has been, any material departures from the letter and spirit of your instructions of the 20th, and my reply hi it, though brief; was not intended to treat the suggestion about putting the Governor in a military command with disrespect; but to say, if done, that, in my opinion, would be best for the country. If the War Depart- ment takes it otherwise, it will wrong both me and the service. Please state this to the Secretary, and assure him of my utter ignorance of any conflict of authorities, and request him to cause all complaints of the kind to be forwarded to me. I will either show they are unfounded, remedy them, or prove that it cannot be done without injury to the country. W. S. ROSECEANS, ]Jiliajor- General. CLARKSVILLE, April 4, 186312 m. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Stuff: Two siege guns, by steamer Glasgow, were received last evening, and placed in position. No further information of enemy. f~eport of can- non in direction of Palmyra is now heard. Think the gunboats are coming up. I need some ammunition for siege guns, and nill take it from the Lizzie Martin, now here, unless forbidden by you. Horses are said to be scarce in Western Kentucky. WM. P. BOONE, Commanding Post. NASHVILLE, April 4, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: The boats fired into at the Iron Pile Shoals were fired at by two 6-pounders and about 200 rounds of musketry, 60 yards distance. HOBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF TIlE CU1~mEERLAND, No. 70. ]llwrfreesborough, Tenn., April 4, 1863. I. Lieut. Col. A. C. Ducat, assistant inspector-general, having reported for duty, Col. J. C. MeKibbin, additional aide-de-camp, is relieved from duty as acting assistant inspector-general, and announced as aide to the general commanding Page 209 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 209 II. Thefollowing-named officers having reported in obedience to orders, are assigned to duty as members of the department staff: Frank S. Hamilton, medical inspector of the department; Capt. D. G. Swaim. assistant adjutant-general; Capt. J. P. Dronillard, additional aide-de- camp to the general commanding, and First Lient. II. Seymour Burt, Sixty-third Ohio Volunteers, acting assistant inspector-general. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE Onxo, Cincinnati, April 4, 1863. Hon. P. II. WATSON, Assistant & cretary of War: Your telegram in reference to ordnance has received attention. The following telegrams, in regard to Lieutenant Smyser, have passed be- tween General Boyle and myself. Charges are to be preferred against him; among others that of intemperance. Of course I know nothing of the truth of these charges, but will investigate them. Meantime he has been relieved: LoursvILu~, March 28. Lieutenant Smyser, ordnance officer here, fails to fill the requisitions for simplest articles on requisition. He is, in my opinion, unfit for the place. By some of his negligent delay the Twenty-fourth Indiana Battery was delayed, and has not yet reached Lebanon; and it was after similar neglect that Colonel McCook received re- mainder of equipments for the Second Indiana Cavalry. If there were a competent man here, I should feel it my duty to put Lieutenant Smyser nnder arrest, and place an officer in charge. Can you not put some other officer in his place, or require him to fill the requisitions promptly, and cease sending all arms from this point? In consequence of his conduct, I will not be able to co-operate effectually, according to your orders. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. My reply was as follows: HE~nquAurr~ns DEPARTMENT OF THE Onro, March 28. If Lieutenant Smyser does not obey your instructions, arrest him at once. There are plenty of men capable of filling his position. No officer is necessary to the de- partment. I will telegraph him. His stores are subject to draft from General Rose- crans department as well as from our own, but there should be no delay in any case. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major-General. LouisviLLE, March 25.. The Second Indiana Cavalry, which has been delayed here two days by failure of Lieutenant Smyser to furnish arms, will leave in the morning for Lebanon. BOYLE, General. LOuISvILLE, March 30. Col. E. M. McCook, Second Indiana Cavalry, has preferred some charges against Lieutenant Smyser, ordnance officer here. Shall I place him under arrest? If you order it, please send an officer to take charge of the depot. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. In accordance with this last dispatch, I ordered the arrest of Lieuten- ant Smyser, and ordered Captain [Ebenezer] Gay to take his place. A. E. BURNSLDE, Major-General, Commanding. 14 R RYOL XXIII2 PT I Page 210 210 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [GaAr. XXXV. W~u DEPARTMENT, Washington City, April 4, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BUENSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: The officer in charge of the ordnance depot at Louisville, Ky., which is a general depot for the supply of several armies, like the commandant of an arsenal, is the special agent of the Ordnance Department, and is under the immediate orders of the Chief of Ordnance. By the positive instructions of the Secretary of War, the officer in charge of that depot was directed to make no issues of stores without the express approval of the Chief of Ordnance, which can always be obtained without delay by telegraph in cases of emergency. The ordnance officer at Louisville has immense stores in charge, for the supply of different armies under differ- ent commanders, and is required to make daily reports to the Chief of Ordnance. To remove such an officer, with such great responsibilities, without notice, necessarily deranges seriously the business of the Ordnance. Department, and still more does it derange that business to put in his place a man without knowledge of the duties of the office, the wishes of the Department, or of the relative needs and resources of the several armies to be supplied through his agency. Lieutenant Smyser was assigned to the post, with the approval of the Secretary of War, and should not have been removed without it, and it seems from your telegram that his hasty removal was without sufficient cause for such a summary process. You will, therefore, carry into effect the order of yesterday, to re- lease Lieutenant Smyser from arrest, and reinstate him in charge of the depot. By order of the Secretary of War: P. II. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 4, 1863li a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, C~incinnati, Ohio: The Secretarys order to relieve General Boyle was peremptory. H. W. HALLECK General-in.Chief. CINCINNATI, OHIo, April 4, 1863. Maj. Gem II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Your letter is received. I already ordered preparations for removal of headquarters to the interior. I am concentrating the troops, and brigading them as rapidly as possible, and shall try to make an im- portant move soon. There are several of General Rosecrans regiments here that were sent out to recruit when Wright sent some of his down. He is now asking for them, and I am sending them. It will take a good portion of the troops away, but he needs them more than we do. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major-General Page 211 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 211 flEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Capt. A. ~. SEMPLE, Bowling Greeh, Ky., April 4, 1863. A. A. G., llidqrs. Dist. of Western Kentucky, Louisville, Ky.: CAPTAiN: I have to report that for some days previous to the recent descent upon the railroad near Franklin, I had a detachment of cav- alry out, sent for the very purpose of frustrating the purpose of the guerrillas, of which I had intimation, but, as it has turned out, unsuc- cessfully. The latter numbered but 18 men, and, moving only at night, a successful scout must, to a great extent, be accidental. I have a ~strong hope that a second detachment sent from here will succeed in inflicting the chastisement proper for such outlaws. At last accounts the prospect for doing so was encouraging. I should have reported the circumstance before, but was anxious to communicate, if possible, the success of my cavalry, which I am not yet able to do. A company of staunch Union citizens in the vicinity of flickory Flat, to whom I issued arms about two weeks since, are doing good service. The guerrillas have ceased troubling them, and the latter a offensive when possible, have killed 2 of the former, , ssuming the wounding others. I am endeavoring to effect the organization of another company, at the request of a number of Union citizens, for their own protection. The organization goes no further than concerted action when attacked, and co-operation with my scouting parties when it can be afforded. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. N. JUDAII, Brigadier- General, Commanding. MURFREESEOROUGH, TENN., Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, April 5, 18638 p. m. General-in-Chief: No special change known in rebel position. A strong co~lumn of cav- alry, with infantry supports, out toward Smithville, after Morgan; three days gone. No news from them. In view of all things I see, I strongly advise the prompt occupation of Eastport by an adequate force, to establish a large depot at that point and to defend it. If the condition of things on General Grants lines will warrant it, it ought to be done. Yours, truly, W. S. BOSECItAKS, Major- General. / CARTHAGE, TENN., April 5, 1863. Brig. Gen. JA~tiES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, ]Jiliurfreesborough, Tenn.: General Spears and Colonel Wilder arrived on the opposite side of the river last night with their commands. General Spears turned over 14 prisoners and Colonel Wilder 15. General Spears moved to this side of the river to-day. To-morrow Colonel Wilder goes to Alexandria, on his return to his division. I shall send [John] Murphys cavalry part of the way with him, and also send some infantry below on the river, to scatter out in small squads and watch the river, unseen, and preven Page 212 212 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ~OaAr. XXXY. those small squads from crossing the river. I will also send an expe- dition up the river, of cavalry and infantry, to mount all the infantry I can. I would like to have saddles sent me, as the saddles we get in this country are not fit for cavalry. I have not over forty days pro- visions for my present command here. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. FRANKLIN, April 5, 1863. General GARFIELD: The rebel cavalry which dashed upon our pickets at Davis Mill this morning was Starnes brigade. It has retired toward Spring Hill. If I had 5,000 cavalry, I would clean out the establishment. G. GRANGER, Major- General. CLARriSYILLE, April 6, 18631.45 a. m. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: I have just returned from Harpeth Shoals. Found no force there. Enemy about 600 strong. Cavalry, with two pieces of artillery, departed before our arrival at his camp, 2 miles from the river, on the Charlotte road. We pursued 3 miles farther, but could not reach them. They went toward Charlotte. Gunboats found no force last evening at Pal- myra. They shelled and burned the place. No force now known to be around here. Will report by mail in full. WM. P. BOONE, Colonel, Commanding Post. FRANKLIN, April 6, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Bloodgoods force was 765. Six only have returned. There may be more in Nashville. General Gilbert has returned. Please do all in your power to keep him a~brigadier-general~ he is the only live man I have got. Nothing new in front. Unless we use the cipher, the rebels will always beat us. I am sure our telegrams are taken off the wires in transit. G. GRANGER, Major- General. MIJRFREES13OROUdII, TENN., April 6, 1863. Maj. Gen. GORDON GRANGER, Franklin, Tenn.: Have asked for Captain Gay and Brigadier-General [W. L] Elliott for you. Expect soon to hear from Burnside about the other matter. Am surprised and pained to learn that Bloodgood had so many men with him. Please give the strength of the command by telegraph, and what stragglers have been found. Has General Gilbert returned ~ Stanley has returned. He cleaned Morgans cavalry out; whipped them at Snow Hill, north of Smithville. Lay your plans now to clean out Fan Dorn completely. We will help. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- U en ual Page 213 ChAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IYNLON. 213 NASHViLLE, April 6, 1863. Lieut. Col. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General: The gunboat commanders have issued orders to leave at 3 a. m. to- morrow. I have notified them of the order of General Bosecrans that they should wait for orders, but they seem to pay no attention to it. The river is falling rapidly, and large boats may be caught here. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIRST ARMY CORPS, ]Jfurfreesborough, Tenn., April 6, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: SIR: On more than one occasion I have had some brief conversation with the commanding general in regard to the enterprise proposed by Colonel Streight, Fifty-first Indiana Volunteers, for cutting the enemys communications in his rear. This is certainly a most important move- ment, and, if it could be crowned with anything like a reasonable amount of success, would undoubtedly lead to great results. But I do not pro- pose in this communication to discuss the propriety of attempting the enterprise. That is a question which the commanding general, as the responsible head of this army, must and will decide, weighing well the rational probabilities of success against those of failure. My object is respectfully to offer some suggestions, supposing the com- manding general should decide Colonel Streights scheme to be feasible, as to the time it should be made in reference to any forward movement of this army, and especially and earnestly to urge that Colonel Streights enterprise, if made, should be undertaken sufficiently in advance of any forward movement of this army as to permit the accomplishment of his mission before the movement of this army would be commenced. This conclusion is based on the following considerations: I take it for granted this army will not, certainly it ought not, to advance until it is sufficiently re-enforced and strengthened, after de- ducting all the garrisons which it will necessarily have to leave to guard its communications, to place its success, should it encounter the rebel army, beyond a reasonable doubt. The encounter of two armies, equal in strength, or so nearly so as to allow the slightest accidental circumstance to give success to either party, is simply a prize fight, yielding the victor little more than the ground he stands on, and by no means compensating for the expenditure of human life necessary to obtain the result. Our advance should be made with such overwhelm- ing numbers as would certainly lead to one of two important results: First, that if, by skillful maneuvering, we should succeed in bringing the enemy to an engagement, a complete and perfect victory, accom- panied by the destruction of his army, would be our reward; or, secondly, he would be compelled to abandon the whole of the fertile plains of Middle Tennessee to our occupation. If we should advance with a force not sufficiently strong to place success beyond a reasonable doubt, we should simply expose ourselves to defeat. On the contrary, should our advance be made with a force placing our success beyond a reasonable doubt, one of the two results already suggested would necessarily ensue. It is almost certain the enemy would retire into the mountainous region of Southeastern Tennessee and around Chattanooga. In this region, with his lines of communication, by which his supplies would be drawn, protected, he could defy us for an indefinite time, and, afte Page 214 214 KY., MID. AND E. TENN, N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ~CuAr. XXXV. falling back, he would have an ample force at command to protect se- curely his communications, and would nn(loubtedly use it for this pur- pose. It would then be too late for the expedition proposed by Colonel Streight to be attempted; there would not be the slightest hope of its success. But could the enemys communications be seriously cut before he might be forced to fall back, being thereby deprived of his supplies, his retreat might reasonably be expected to result in the disorganization and ruin of his army as an organized military force, from the sheer necessity of breaking into small bodies to obtain subsistence. For these reasons, I repeat II would most respectfully urge that if Colo- nel Streights expedition is to be undertaken at all, it should entirely precede any forward movement of this army, and that before any such movement of this army takes place, ample time be allowed for the ac- complishment of the objects of Colonel Streights mission. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, TH. J. WOOD, Brigadier- General of Volunteers, Commanding. [P. S.]This communication was prepared before I knew that the com- manding general had decided to send Colonel Streight; but as the points I seek to make in it are now more important than ever, I respectfully submit it for the consideration of the commanding general. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CoRPs, ]Jliemphis, Tenn., April 6, 1863. Lient. Col. JOHN A. IIAWLINS, Assistant Adjutant-General: SIR: The dash on our front here has proved to be solely a cavalry irregular movement. I inclose copy of messages from Generals Rosecrans and Dodge, which indicate an important movement not only for his corps, but necessarily for this force. If this movement goes on, it will materially aid my con- templated cavalry dash on the railroad below, for it will draw off their cavalry force into Alabama, and leave my field clear. They draw now most of their supplies from Noxubee and the neighboring counties in Mississippi. The line of this corps is now well maintained, and the troops in good order and fine spirits. Horses now are the only things I require to be ready for a movement. This cavalry dash I desire to time so as to co-operate with what I suppose to be your plan, to land below Vicksburg, on south side of Black River, silencing the Grand Gulf batteries. By cutting the road, I shall, as I~think, materially aid in the movement, as well as by sh 6ving the heads of infantry columns as low as the Tallahatchie. Very truly, your obedient servant, S. A. HURLBUT, ]lliajor- General. [Inclosures.] HDQRS. DIST. OF CORINTH, DEPT. OF THE TENNESSEE, Connth, April 4, 1863. HENRY BINMORE, Assistant Adjutant- General: CAPTAIN: In accordance with Major-General Hurlbuts dispatch, I submit the plan of operations east of here. General Rosecrans propose Page 215 CHAP. xxxv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 215 to land a force at Florence, attack and take that place, while, with a heavy body of cavalry, he penetrates Alabama, north of Tennessee River, and gets into Johnstons rear. At the same time I am to strike and take Tuscumbia, and, if practicable, push my cavalry to Decatnr, destroy the saltpeter works, and the Tuscumbia and Decatur Railroad, which they have just finished, and take all the horses and mules in that country, to prevent them from raising any large crops. To do this, I propose to move simnltaneou~ly with General iRosecrans, throw all my cavalry suddenly across Bear Creek, capture the ferries, and hold them until my infantry and artillery arrive, and then immediately force my cavalry as far toward Tuscumbia as possible, and secure the crossings of Little Bear, on Which creek the enemy will concentrate. To accom- plish this, I shall move light, taking nothing but ammnnition and pro- visions, and march20 miles per day, with infantry and artillery. I shall take such a force as to render certain the success of the expedition, and propose to take command in person. The movement is to be made next week, or as soon as General IRosecrans notifies me he is ready. I trust this will meet the views of the general commanding. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAT~D, Jlliurfreesborough, April 5, 186310 a. m. Major-General HURLBUT, ]iIem~his: I propose to send 1,700 men, under an able officer, properly fitted, via Donelson, to embark at Fort Henry, land at Eastport, to be joined by two brigades from Corinth, march on Tuscumbia, whip the rebels out of the valley, and while your two brigades, and more, if you deem neces- sary, temporarily cover the movement, my troops move on to break the Georgia Railroad, return southward and westward via the Sand Mount- ains and Corinth. It will take eight or ten days to get to Eastport. If Dodge will be at Juka, they may land at Cherokee, and move rapidly on Tuscumbia. Will you carry this out ~ W. S. ROSECIRAKS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, April 6, 1863. Hon. P. H. WATSON, A8sistant Secretary of War: Among other specifications against Lieutenant Smyser, he is charged with saying to an officer, who had a proper requisition, Tell Colonel McCook that he had better send some more communications to Captain Semple about the sabers. I dont care a damn for him or any other McCook. They can all go to hell. I dont care a damn for Captain Semple, or any of the brigadier-generals or major-generals, and they can all go to hell. I am a regular officer, and know how to attend to my business. The failure of Lieutenant Smyser to give to Colonel McCook sabers for his regiment, when he had plenty on hand, delayed the movement of the regiment, and caused him to fail to co-operate with General Gillmore in the attack upon Pegram. I have cheerfully released him from arrest, and dismissed the charge Page 216 216 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. against him, but most respectfully submit that I cannot maintain dis- cipline and efficiency in the departments here if they are independent of my authority. These departments have been issuing stores upon the requisitions of commanding generals, in accordance with General Orders, No. 14, from this department headquarters. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DErARTMENT, Washington City, April 6, 1863. Maj. Gen. A~ctBROSfl E. BURNSIDE, Gincinnati, Ohio: Your telegram, announcing Lieutenant Smysers release, received. There can be no difficulty in giving you all needful authority in respect to ordnance stores, but that authority cannot be delegated to subordi- nate generals. Proof was sent to this Department of General Boyles bullying Lieutenant 5rnyser~s predecessor in charge of the ordnance depot, and, on the recommendation of the General-in.Chief, the Secre- tary of War admonished him of the necessity for high officers observ- ing the twenty-fourth section of the Rules and Articles of War. The vicious example of the general was, of course, imitated by his subordi- nates. In this case General Boyle seems to have had no cause to complain of the bad manners of Lieutenant Smyser until, in the line of his duty, he reported an improper purchase of pistols by General Boyle, at exorbitant prices, from a firm of which a member of his staff (Cap- tain Semple) is a partner. This Department will not sanction any im- proper conduct on the part of Lieutenant Smyser, but the ordnance depot at Louisville, and the arsenals at Pittsburgh and Saint Louis, and the depots at Dearborn and Cleveland must remain under the control of the Ordnance Department. Lieutenant Smyser reports that he turned over the sabers for Colonel McCooks regiment to the quarter- master, for transportation to his camp, without delay, and took the proper receipt, and that it was not until he was subsequently bullied by General Boyles inspector-general and threatened with arrest, that he retorted, with some asperity, to the insulting language of that officer. The deportment of General Boyle toward other officers, as shown by the records of this Department, renders the truth of Lieutenant Smysers statements highly probable. ~. H. WATSON, Assistant Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, April 6, 1863. Hon. E. M. STANTON: General Wright assigned General Carrington to the District of Indi- ana some time before I came out. I will investigate as to his fitness, and relieve him if he is found deficient, or I will relieve him at once, if you wish. I sincerely hope you will leave General Boyle with me in this department. Have you decided as to my application for the son of General Sumner to come with meal He is now in Syracuse. A. E. BURNSIDE, 7Miajor-General Page 217 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 217 HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 6, 1863. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: Can Maj. Gen. George L. Hartsuff be ordered to report to me for duty ~l I need his services here very much, and he is desirous of serv- ipg with me. A. E. BUIRNSJDE, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPART~IENT, Washington City, April 6, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: The Department has no disposition to remove General Carrington, or interfere with his command, unless you should find it necessary. You shall have General Sumners son [Samuel S.] whenever he is disposed to go on duty. You can inform him. General Hartsuff is on a court- martial, and will be sent to you immediately. EDWIN M. STANTON. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 6, 18633 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Henshaws battery has been ordered to the field as you direct. Gen- eral Boyle will report in Washington as soon as possible. He has not been well. I sincerely hope he will be allowed to retain his command. I hope you will send my other division soon. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, April 6, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS: I have ordered the two Michigan regiments, the One hundred and sixth and One hundred and eighth Ohio, and MeCooks cavalry, to join you. Must you have the Second Ohio I It will leave me almost with- out cavalry to take it, but you probably need it more than I do. I will order the horses of the Eleventh Kentucky, at Bowling Green, to be sent to you. I would be glad to have one of your staff officers come here at once. We now occupy Glasgow, and I shall occupy Thompson- ville in a few days. Our advance is up now at Loudon and Somerset. I have ordered Captain Gay to report to you. I hope to have enough force soon to make some diversions in your favor. Which would you prefer to have me move upon, Knoxville or London, or to cross at Gainesborough and move down in the direction of MeMinuville ~l Please post your staff officer with your views, and dont fail to ask me for any assistance I can give you. Your brother and Louis started down to see you today. We have just heard that Charleston has fallen. The six companies of the Fourth Indiana have already been sent to you. A. E. BURN SIDE, Major- General, L1ommanding Department of the Ohio Page 218 218 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No.31. Cincinnati, Ohio, April 6, 1863. The State of Ohio is hereby constituted a district of this department, to be known as the District of Ohio. Brig. Gen. John S. Mason, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to the com- mand of the District of Ohio, with headquarters at Cincinnati. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, No. 157. Washington, April 6, 1863. I. Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, U. S. Volunteers, will, assume command of the post of Columbus, Ohio, made Vacant by the death of Brigadier. General [James] Cooper, U. S. Volunteers. * * * * * * * By command of Major.General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant A.djutant.General. MURFREESEOROUGH, April 7, 1863. General DODGE, Corinth: Expedition preparing rapidly. Will probably start Thursday. Ought to arrive at Pittsburg Landing or Eastport by Thursday week at latest. If you can move to luka and there make your preparations, it would be better for it to land at Eastport. If you deem it more prudent, it may land at Hamburg, and meet you at Glendale or Burusyille. You must provide six thousand or eight thousand essential parts of rations. They will bring their own forage. Yours, very truly, W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. FRANKLIN, April 7, 1863. General ROSECRANS: I have late and reliable information from Van Dorns camp. His force now numbers about 15,000. His stores and supplies are all on this side of Duck River, and at or near Spring Hill. It is his intention to either attack this place, or turn our right flank and move iu the direc- tion of Kentucky; the latter, I think, most probable. The report of flat-boats being built on the Tennessee River is confirmed beyond doubt, showing that re~enforcements from that direction are expected. To be on the safe side, you must place 3,000 troops from Mitchells command at Breutwood, so as to enable me to concentrate all mine at this point. I further learn that Joe Johnston has been strongly re-enforced at Tul- lahoma, but does not intend to attack you at Mnrfreesborough. For some reason the rebels seem to be in low spirits, both yesterday and to- day. I suppose bad luck has overtaken them some. This is not an answer to yours. G. GRANGER, Major- General Page 219 CHAP. XXXV.] 219 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. MURFREESBOROIJGH, TENN., April 7, 186310.05 p. m. Maj. Gen. GoRDoN GRANGER, Franklin: Stanley came in, after whipping Morgans command at Snow Hill. One of onr scouts says Wheeler is at Williamsport, and, with Van Dorn, intends to attack you soon, and clean out Brentwood between this and Friday night, and they will fortify at that point. Could you and Stanley anticipate Van Dorn? What say you ~ Answer soon. W. S. IROSECRANS, Major- General. FRANKLIN, April 7, 1863. Major-General HOSECRANS: Dispatch received. Just telegraphed you my latest information and state of things here, and what I deem necessary to be done. If what I have suggested meets your views, I would advise that Stanleys com- mand be pushed quietly over in this vicinity, via Triune. This, I think, will prevent any move by Van Dorn and Wheeler. Should they then venture an attack on l3reutwood, their fate is sealed and certain. Dont forget it is important for Mitchell to hold Brentwool in force. Our troopsthree regiments of infantry, one regiment of cavalry, and one batteryhave been laboring incessantly, but the defenses are not com- plete. Mitchell has 6,000 or 7,000 troops in Nashville. I repeat again that all your messages are taken off between here and Murfreesborough and coiiimunicated to the enemy by couriers. Why not use the cipher~l G. GIRANGER, Major- General, Commanding. MURFREESBoRoIJGIT, TENN., April 7, 1863. (Sent 12.15 a. in., April 8.) Major-General GRANGER, Franklin: What is the composition of Van Dorns force ~l Have you perfect arrangements to communicate with Triune ~ Look well to that. Triune is much in these matters. You must bear in mind my previous instruc- tions, which will rule, in case you are not in good shape to hold the enemy, if he makes a very strong infantry and artillery attack. Keep your baggage in good shape to be taken care of. You must cause your scouts and cavalry to watch them and the flanks of Breutwood, when Mitchell gets there. We will try what they are made of soon. W. S. IROSECRANS, Major- General. P. S.Have things so arranged that, should you want to move sud- denly on the enemy, you can put your spare baggagv~ and public prop- erty under cover of a small guard in the fort. NASHVILLE, April 7, 1863. Lient. Col. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General: Fleet left this morning. Telegram from Clarksville says: Paroled prisoners of Second Michigan Cavalry just arrived, and report that Sunda Page 220 220 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. morning rebels, 800 strong, with four pieces of artillery, were encamped at Cumber- land Furnace, 15. miles baek from Palmyra. S. D. BRUCE, GoloneZ, Commanding Post. ROBT. B. MITCHELL, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQR S. DEPARTMENT OF THE Onio, No. 35. Cincinnati, Ohio, April 7, 1803. The State of Illinois is hereby constituted a district of this depart- ment, to be known as the District of Illinois. Brig. Gen. Jacob Ammen, U. 5, Volunteers, is assigned to the com- mand of the District of Illinois, with headquarters at Springfield. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, WAR DEPARTMENT., ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 159. Washington, April 7, 1803. * * * * * * * II. Maj. Gen. 0. L. Hartsuff, U S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty on the general court-martial instituted by Paragraph VIII, of Special Orders, No. 152, current series, from this office, and will report in person without delay to Major-General Burnside, commanding De- partment of the Ohio, for duty. * * * * * * * By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. WASHINGTON, April 8, 186311.35 a. m. Major-General ROSECRANS: Your telegram of 5th, through War Department, has been received. I will be in Nashville in a few days, and will immediately thereafter meet you at any point that maybe indicated, for the purpose of confer- ring with you fully and freely upon the subject and matter of your tele- gram. This, I think, will be more satisfactory to both. There has been nothing, there will be nothing desired by me but harmony and concert of action to put down this rebellion and restore to the people of Ten- nessee all their legal and constitutional rights; of this you know I have given assurance both in action and words. ANDREW JOHNSON. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, D. C., April 8, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, llfurfreesborough, Tenn.: Two hundred carbines for the Thirty-ninth Indiana have been ordered to Governor Morton, as requested by you. P. H. WATSON, Assistant & cretary of War Page 221 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 221 APRIL 8, 186310 p. m. Major-General MoCOoK: The general commanding directs you to hold two divisions of your corps in readiness to march to-morrow morning, with three days~ rations. It is probable that Franklin will be attacked and Triune threatened to- morrow. Van Porn is reported to be concentrated at Spring Hill. Should these reports be confirmed, you will be ordered to move out on the~Versailles road toward Eagleville. J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Miurfreesborough, April 8, 1863. Maj. Gen. P. S. STANLEY, tiihief of Gavairy: The general commanding directs you to start early to-morrow morn- ing, with all your available cavalry, by the most direct route to Triune, and there, in concert with General Steedman, advance to the support of General Granger. It is reported that he will be attacked to-morrow morning. Should this prove tine, you will come in on the flank of the attacking column. Whether Van Porn attacks or not, the general com- manding desires to destroy his forces in the direction of Columbia. Your movement will be supported by an adeqi~ate force of infantry. Your command should take five days rations. Keep up constant com- munication with us by couriers and by the signal cw~ps. Fery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]Wurfreesborough, April 8, 1863. Maj. Gen. P. 5. STANLEY, Chief of Cavalry: The general commanding directs me to inform you that information received from General Steedman, at Triune, of the probable intention of the enemy to attack Franklin to-morrow makes it desirable that your cavalry should start promptly at early dawn, and that the different bri- gades should follow each other as closely as possible, instead of later in the day, as was intended. Should Van Dorn attack Granger, it will be the business of yourself and General Steedman to fall on the enemys flank. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. GODDARD, Lieutenant- Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. HDQRS. 14TH ARMY CORPS, DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, Miurfreesborough, April 8, 1863. Brigadier-General STEEDMAN, Commanding Third Division, Triune: The movement of the enemy reported by you yesterday p. m goes to confirm information, received at department headquarters by scout Page 222 222 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [C~AL. XXXV~ sent out from this place, that Van Dorn is concentrating a force at Spring Hill to attack Grauger or you. Be constantly on your guard. General Rosecrans last night told me he would send General Stanley with a force to Triune, and, with your force, be prepared to attack the enemy in flank should he march against Granger. Should you receive any orders from department headquarters, obey them promptly, report- lug to me what orders have been given you. Very respectfully, GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, U. S. Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, April 8, 1863. Major-General BURNSLDE: GENERAL: I send Colonel Ducat, inspector-general of the army, to confer with you on the subject of future operations. I have explained to him the points which it is desirable to occupy, and the number of points will be your right and center. The movement I suggest for your right has in view, first, the question of subsistence; next, security of our communications; next, facility for your right combining with your center, in East Tennessee, and, lastly, adding four brigades to our strength, without reducing yours. The great difficulty in occupying East Tennessee is the barren region for subsistence, and an expedition to break the railroad is almost of the first necessity.. I would advise the erection of fortifications at all important points south of the blue-grass region. You can get plenty of negroes. The points of permanent occupation should be fortified enough to secure these immediately, and strengthened afterward. This secures them from cavalry enterprises, and enables them to put their baggage and stores in safety, so as to be more free to make expeditions. Louis- ville ought to be strongly fortified. Please communicate to Colonel iDucat your views, and what you will be able to do, and anything else that you may desire to communicate in reference to our future operations. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. S. HOSECHAKS, Major- General, Commanding. MURPREESBOROUGH, April 8, 1863. Major-General BIJRNSIDE: One of the movements that will be explained to you by Colonel Ducat is the breaking of the railroad north of Knoxville; or. if that cannot be done, to seize and hold, if possible, if not, destroy, Loudon Bridge. W. S. IIOSECIIANS, Major-General. SPECIAL ORDERS, HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, No. 162. Washington, April 8,1863. * * * * * * IV. Brig. Gen. J. M. Schofield, U. S. Volunteers, will report for dut Page 223 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 223 to Major General iRosecrans, commanding Department of the Cumber- land. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General Halleck: TX D. TOWI4 SEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. CAIRo, April 9. 1863. Major-General iROSECRANS: General iluribut directs me to telegraph you the following infor- mation from Corinth, April 7 received from General G. M. Dodges scouts, from Decatur, Florence, and Tuscumbia: Left Florence April 3. From Decatur to Florence, at every ferry, they are building a large number of flats, and have several finished. At Florence, they liave 50 men at work building flats. General Wood at Florence, with battery and one regiment of infantry; at Waterloo, Colonel Debngees [Dibrellsi] regiment of cavalry; at Tus- cumbia, Dodges [I] cavalry, Colonel Harrisons command, and one battery; at Bear Creek, one regiment cavalry. N. B. BUFOIRD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CORINTH, April 9, .1863. General ROSECRANS: Scouts in from Decatur report the enemy very active at every ferry between Florence and Decatur, with one heavy gun and about 1,800 men800 infantry, rest cavalry. They expect more force 1~,here, at Tus- cumbia the same number as at Florence, with a regiment at Waterloo and another at Bear Creek. Cox at Ferryville, and Van Dorn at or near Columbia. Scout left Decatur the 5th. Please inform me if you want to make the Tuscumbia move. If not, I want to use my force in another direction. G. M. DODGE. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Teun., April 9, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. IROSECRANS, ]libufreesborough: General Dodge, with 3,500 or 4,000 good troops, will co-operate with yo~ir movement on Tuscumbia. It is important that gunboats should cruise from mouth of Duck i~iver up to Tuscumbia during this march. Ellets Marine Brigade ran by me yesterday without reporting, and are now within your reach. Use them either on Tennessee or Cumberland Rivers. Let your boats take up extra supplies of commissary stores to Tuscumbia, so as to avoid drawing from Corinth. S. A. HIJRLBUT,. Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn.. April 9, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, iVliurfreesborough: Since my dispatch of to-day, I learn that Ellets Marine Brigade are ordered up the Tennessee, to report and co-operate with Dodge. S. A. HUlILBUT, Major- General Page 224 224 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS,. Memphis, Teun., April 9, 1863. Lient. Col. JOHN A. HAWLINS, A. A. G., Youngs Point, La.: SIR: I iiiclose copy of dispatch from General IRosecrans.* I have answered that Dodge will be ready to co-operate with him with 3,500 good troops. Brigadier-General Ellet ran by this place yesterday with- out reporting. I do not know for what point. I have advised that he be sent to the Cumberland or Tennessee to aid in this movement. If it is possible for a force from Helena or Greenville to get in below Panola, it would be advisable so to do. There is a rumor of the fall of Charles- ton, not credited. Your obedient servant, ~ A. IIURLBUT, Major- General. GALLATIN, April 9, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: General Judah is at Bowling Green, Ky. Lebanon is 16 miles from here in Wilson [County], Tennessee, across Cumberlaud River. I have three ferry-boats at our landing. Can cross after dark and wake up the citizens of Lebanon at daylight. I will mount my infantry. B. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General. NASHVILLE, April 9, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: SIR: Your instructions of to-day are received, among which are the. ollowing, to wit: You will destroy all depots of supplies for the rebel army, and all ruanufactories of army ammunitions equipments, and clothing for their use. The destruction of manufacturing establishments engaged in manu- facturing directly for the use of the rebel army I consider a duty which I would have no right to leave undone, when in my power, even in absence of any instructions. Every cotton mill, tannery, or other man- ufacturing establishment, and all quantities of corn, bacon, salt, or other supplies necessary for the use or subsistence of an army within rebel lines is indirectly, if not directly, supporting the enemy. Now, while humanity would dictate that such necessaries of life as were in- tended only for immediate family use should be spared, yet it is cle~ar1y my opinion that all large quantities of anything necessary for the use of an army, as well as factories producing such articles, should be de- stroyed, whether sQch be private or public property. I think I ftilly understand the course you desire me to pursue in relation to this matter; nevertheless I would prefer you send me written instructions. Second. The rebels not having regular uniforms, would it be violat- ing the rules of war should I see fit to dress any number of men, say two companies, after the promiscuous Southern style ~i Something of this kind might be advantageous, should you not think it an improper course to pursue. I am, sir, your obedient servant, A. D. STIREIGHT. P. S.This was to be sent by railroad, but orderly missed the train. * See Rosecrans to Hurlbut, Apr11 5, p. 215 Page 225 ChAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 225 NASHVILLE, April 9, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: We can start within three hours from the time of receiving orders, provided Colonel Taylor sends the paulins in time. II was informed they were here, but it seems they are not. Does your news from Corinth indicate the enemy in stronger force than you expected ~ A. D. STREIGHT, Colonel. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Major-General ROSECRANS, ]Jiliurfreesborough, April 9, 1863. Commanding Department, & e.: GENERAL: Have not received any report front Steedman this morn- ing, but the officer commanding a party of cavalry I sent to Triune yesterday returned this morning, and has just reported to me that Steedman told him this morning about 6 oclock that he had been on the lookout for the enemy. Had his cavalry to the front ever since 1 oclock, and that he was ready for them. This party came the direct road by Lizards. Saw no sign of the enemy on that road, but heard the firing, which he thought was at Triune, about half an hour after meeting with the Third and Fourth Regiments Ohio Cavalry. These regiments were about 6 miles from Triune when the firing commenced. It was rapid for a short time, and then ceased entirely. GEG. H. THOMAS. P. 5.Signal officer reports, Cant see the station at Triune on ac~ count of fog, but will report first opportunity. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 75. Murfreesborough, flienn., April 9, 1863. I. Capt. J. H. Young, Fifteenth Infantry, U. S. Army, is announced as commissary of musters for this department. Thefollowing-named officers are announced as members of the department staff: Capt. Hunter Brooke, additional aide-de-camp, acting judge-advocate, and First Lieut. W. H. Harris, ordnance department. II. All officers traveling within the limits of this department are ordered to wear their side-arms. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General iRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 9, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: It would seem, from the. best information we can get here, the enemy~s - raid into Kentucky was more a ruse than a reality. If you find it so, you will mass your troops as much as possible to assist General Rose- 15 R RVOL XXlII~ PT I Page 226 226 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXY. crans. Do not allow them to be scattered into useless garrisons. You will be much urged to do so by local authorities. Keep me advised of your own and the enemys movements. II. W. HALLECK, General .in- Chief. FRANKLiN, April 10, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: My opinion is that a vigorous movement upon Van Dor~i and the left of the rebel army should be made instantly, leaving the details to the man upon the ground. Yours, D. S. STANLEY, Brigadier- General. FRANKLIN, April 10, 1863. Major.General ROSECRANS: I bivouacked on the direct road from Triune to Franklin, 4 miles east of the latter place. At 7 oclock this morning Fan Dorn was still at Spring Hill. Steedman thinks he has 18,000 men. Granger put it at 12,000 I think this latter probably about right. With one of our old divisions we could whip them out of their boots. I do not know whether it would be judicious to attack with this green force, but if you think the game is worth the candle,~~ we will slap away at them. To make the move, Mitchell should send a brigade, Steedman nearly his whole force, and one bri~ade, say Harkers, should march to Triune. Van Dorn is in his strong position, and must be approached with judgment and in force. D. S. STANLEY, Major. General. HEADQUARTEFS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERL& ND, ]Jliurfreesborough, April 10, 18637.45 p. m. Col. J. T. WILDER, Commanding First Brigade, Fifth Division: (Through General Reynolds, Fourteenth Army Corps.) The general commanding directs that you order your two mounted regiments to prepare at once to march, with three days rations. He directs you to be ready in an hour and a half, if possible. Give your orders, and then report in person at these headquarters for further instructions. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. GODDARD, Lieutenant-Colonel and Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 10, 18632.30 p. m. Major.General BuRNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: It is very difficult to supply large guns for fortifications. Such requi- sitions must be reduced as much as possible, or they cannot be filled. If you fortify too many places, you will destroy the mobility of your forces. II. W. HALLECK Page 227 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~-UNION. 227 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 10, 1863. Brig. Gen. 0. B. WILLOOX, Lexington, Ky.: Immediately upon arrival at Lexington, you will assume command of all troops in that vicinity, relieving General Gillmore. You will gain from him all the information possible as to the position of the troops, the means of transportation, its distribution, and the amount of sup- plies on hand, and report in regard to these matters to these head- qnarters by telegraph this afternoon. Order a brigade from Camp Dick Robinson to report to General Carter, at Stanford. Concentrate all Walkers cavalry at Winchester, also the two battalions of the Second Ohio which came down to Mount Sterling by way of Maysville. You are authorized to have any number of scouts that you may deem necessary. It is particularly desirable to have good scouts out in the direction of Jackson, Prestonbnrg, and Paintville. These scouts should be started out at once, and frequent reports during the day made to these headquarters. The regimental supply and ammunition tr~dns should be organized as rapidly as possible, and the whole command put in condition to march at short notice. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, April 10, 1863. Col. C. J. WALKER, Commanding at Sharpsburg, Ky.: The brigadier-general commanding directs that upon the receipt of this order you will bring your entire command back to Winchester, without delay, including the Fourteenth Kentucky Cavalry, which may not yet have joined you from the Kentucky River ferries. Send cou- riers in the direction of Maysville, to meet Colonel Kautz, Second Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, with instructions from these headquarters to bring the two battalions of his regiment approaching from that vicinity also. Report your arrival at Winchester to these headquarters, and give the effective strength of your command. Leave instructions with Colonel Kautz to report his arrival at these headquarters. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. L. M. BURGER, Captain and Aide-de-Camp. FRANKLIN, April 11, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: I agree with General Stanley as to the force necessary to successfully attack Van DornSteedman and Wilder. I will withdraw a portion of the force at Brentwood to garrison this place during our absence. When can Steedman and Wilder reach here ~ My plan of attack is, to march the infantry on the Columbia pike, and maneuver the cavalry as cir- cnmstances may direct, to turn either or both flanks and get in his rear, if possible. I am opposed to separating my forces, and having them beaten in detail. Q. GRANG1~1~ Page 228 228 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. FRANKLIN, April 11, 1863. Major-General HOSEORANS: Van Born has fallen back. He had his whole force. Everything in- dicates that it was an attack in earnest, and not a reconnaissance. With all of Steedmans force, I do not think we could whip him in his chosen position. G. GRANGEIR, Miajor- General. FRANKLIN, April 11, 18633 p. m. Major-General HOSECRANS: The reason of Van Borns attack was, to the best of my information, that he believed that all of the troops from this place had fallen back, except a small force of cavalry. General Stanley reconnoitered the Columbia and Lewisburg pikes to-day, and found that the enemy had fallen back to his old position, near Spring Hill. The eff~ct of his re- pulse has been simply to convince him of our formidable position, and that we were here in greater force than he anticipated. If this attack means anything other than the anticipated capture of Franklin, I dont know what it is. You can probably judge better than myself. I have already telegraphed you what I thought best to do, so far as this flank is concerned. G. GRANGER. Major- General. HEADQUARTERS, Franklin, April 11, 1863. General ROSECRANS: I never have received any notification of the troops at Brentwood or Triune being under my orders. In a message received last night you propose sending the troops from La Yergne to Triune, in case of a move- ment from the latter place, but yet did not order Steedman under my command. Please notify me at once whether you propose placing the troops at either place at my disposal. General Stanley will be in from the front in a few minutes. G. GRANGER. WASHINGTON, April 11, 186311.30 a. m. Major-General ROSECRANS: I am informed that the four cavalry regiments from East Tennessee were to form a brigade, and be placed under the command of Col. Robert Johnson. His regiment (the First East Tennessee Cavalry) is the largest in the service. Can this be done and promote the public iuterest~ If so, it would be gratifying to me as well as others. I shall proceed at once to raise 25,000 troops, cavalry and infantry. ANDREW JOHNSON. GALLATIN, April 11, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD: I shall send the command from here to Lebanon under Colonel Har- rison, of the Seventieth Indiana. One thousand men, with one sectio Page 229 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 229 of artillery, crossed the river at dark. I have been told to-day that there are 4,000 rebels at Liberty, and a large force is soon to be in Lebanon. The rebels seem determined to hold Wilson County, on account of sup- plies. I am in the telegraph office. Send me word what United States force will be met at Lebanon by our troops, & c. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier. General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND Colonel WILDER, Murfreesborough, April 11, 1863. Commanding Brigade: The general commanding directs that you start this morning on your proposed trip, in accordance with verbal instructions already given. Rebels crossed at Dobbs Ferry, on old Lebanon road, near Couchs Mill. The commanding general directs that you shorten your trip, so as to reach Franklin, via INolensville, by Snnday evening, when you will report your command to Maj. Gen. D. S. Stanley. You will take your available force, and leave the balance to get their horses shod and proceed to Triune, there to join Steedman or proceed to join yon at Nolensville, as may be thought best. Please report often, and particularly at La Vergue. Respectfully, FRANK S. BOND, Major and Aide-de-Gamp. CINCINNATI, OHIo, April 11, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. IIALLECK, General-in-Chief: I am concentrating the troops as rapidly a~ possible with advanced posts at London, Somerset, Liberty, and Glasgow, with scouting parties as far as Selma, on the Cumberland. I am at a loss to determine upon a plan of diminishing the garrisons at Bowling Green, Mnnfordville, and other important points on the railroad, but think I shall be able to take considerable of the force from General Boyles district, and concen- trate them at or near Tompkinsville. The force at Louisa, in Eastern Kentucky, is as small as it ought to be. In fact, there ought to be more men in front of Pound Gap. There is no enemy of any moment noW this side of CumbePland River, and, if the forces are not diverted by cavalry raids, I hope to be able to concentrate a considerable column to move in co-operation with Rosecrans. I am expecting a staff officer here from him to-day for consultation, and will report to you the result. What we most lack now is cavalry. The enemy is in considerable force in Wayne County, Pegram having been re-enforced by a brigade of cav- alry, under Jackson, from East Tennessee. They number in all be- tween 4,000 and 5,000. I shall move against them in two or three days unless there is something else to be done of more benefit to Rosecrans. He telegraphs me Morgan is coming up to join that force, and that they are going to attempt a crossing at Bucksville and Selma. The rebel forces in the Gap and at Knoxville are very small. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major-General Page 230 230 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXv. WASHINGTON, D. C., April 11, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati: Reports have been received here that Senator [Lazarus W.] Powell, candidate for Governor of Kentucky, has acted in a disloyal manner, and advocated the secession of that State from the Union. You will cause his conduct to be closely observed and reported to these head. qnarters. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. CINCINNATI, OHIO, April 11, 18633 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Your dispatch received, and I will look out for Mr. Powell: There is nothing new this morning. No enemy north of the 4Jumberland, but a considerable force in Wayne County, with headquarters at Mill Springs. Hope to attack them in two or three days. A messenger from General Rosecrans is now here, and I will write you the result of the interview. There is nothing very definite as to the capture of .trains on the Louis- ville and Nashville Railroad. General Wright telegraphs that the train reported captured has arrived at Nashville. Will telegraph again to- day. I move to the interior Monday or Tuesday. Have ordered court to try Major Prentice as a spy. A. E. BIJRNS1DE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, OHIO, April 11, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in.Chief: The fortifications about Cincinnati are now nearly completed, and it would seem advisable not to stop their armament. I have assigned an infantry regiment for practice at the guns, and ask authority to make an artillery regiment of it, in which case it can readily be filled up to its maximum number, which will be sufficient to man the forts. A re- port has just been sent with reference to fortifications at Louisville, which I respectfully request permission to have erected at once by hired labor. The plan is to build eight small, inclosed works,, all of which can be done within two or three weeks. These two very impor- tant points will then be perfectly secure, and a repetition of last sum- mers stampede avoided in case of any reverse. Instead of rendering the force in this department less mobile, it will enable us to concentrate large bodies to operate in the field without having to look so much to the rear. Shall I commence the works t A. E. BURNSIDE, Major-GeneraL HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 11, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The system of fortifying was adopted by General Wright, and I have not had time to look into the matter fully. He seems to have adopted it with a view to holding points with small forces. A. E. BURKSIDE, Major. General Page 231 CHAP. XXXV.] 231 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, April 11, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: I have received the following dispatch from General Wright: I learn from General Judah that General Rosecrans has ordered the Third Kentucky Cavalry, now at Russeliville, to Murfreeshorough. This leaves that section without mounted force. This regiment was sent into Kentucky some time ago by General Rosecrans, and it was the understanding with him that it was to remain if certain other mounted force was sent him from Kentucky. I may have misunderstood his agreement. Let it remain permanently, but this dispatch will show what his under- standing was. At any rate it should not be removed without orders from you, and such orders should pass through me. H. G. WRIGHT, Brigadier-General. I will retain the regiment until I hear from yon, and if you then want it, I will send it. Answer. A. E. BUIRXSIDE, Major- Gencral. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTTIIENT OF THE OHIO, No. 37. Cincinnati, Ohio, April 11, 1863. I. Col. Thomas Swords, Assistant Quartermaster-General, U. S. Army, having been relieved from duty at these headquarters by the Quartermaster-General, and assigned to duty at Louisville, Ky., Capt. John II. Dickerson, assistant quartermaster, will be recognized as chief quartermaster at these headquarters, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. II. The tr~ops serving in the Department of the Ohio will hereafter be known as the Army of the Ohio. The general headquarters of the Army of the Ohio will be at once removed to the field. The following directions are given in reference to the heads of departments in this city: 1st. Col. Henry Van Rensselaer, inspector-general, will continne his headquarters in this city, and will be specially charged with the duties of his department in relation to the organizing, equipping, and forward- ing troops. 2d. The positions and duties of Lient. Col. C. L. Kilburn, chief com- missary of subsistence; Maj. F. F. Flint, commissary of musters, and Capt. T. Edson, ordnance officer, will remain as they now are, with offices in this city, they having duties to perform for other departments. 3d. Snrg. L. II. ilolden, U. S. Army, will continue his headquarters in this city, and have immediate superintendence of the hospitals now under his charge. 4th. Maj. J. II. Simpson, chief of engineers, will for the present con- tinue his headquarters in this city. 5th. Capt. J. M. Cutts, aide-de-camp, is announced as judge-advocate of the Department of the Ohio, to date from March 25, 1863. He will continue his office in this city. 6th~ A branch office of the adjutant-generals department will re- main in Cincinnati, under the charge of Maj. N. II. McLean, with the officers now attached to it,to whom all official communications relating to States in this department north of the Ohio River will be addressed. 7th. All these departments will remain subject to the orders and in- structions of the commanding general, except in cases where their duties do not appertain to the Department of the Ohio. 8th. The heads of departments at Louisville will remain unchanged Page 232 232 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XX~V. III. The following officers are assigned as staff officers at general headquarters, to date from March 25: Lieut. Col. Lewis Richmond, assistant adjutant-general; Lient. Col. Charles G. Loring, assistant in- spector-general; Lient. Col, E. R. Goodrich, chief commissary of sub- sistence; Surg. William II. Church, medical director. Aides-de-camp Majs. William Cutting and J. L. Van Buren and Capts. P. M. Lydig, ID. A. Pell, G.R. Fearing, C. G. hutton, and R. II. I. Goddard. IV. The following officers, who have reported for duty in this de- partment, will report as follows: Surg. H. W. Rivers to Surgeon Church; Capt. D. R. Lamed, assistant adjutant-general, to the com- manding general; Capt. W. H. French, commissary of subsistence, to Lieut. Col. E. R. Goodrich; Capt. J. A. Morris, assistant quartermaster, to Capt. J. H. Dickerson. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant4leneral. MIJRFIIEESBOROUGH, TEWN., April 12, 186311 p m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The enemys cavalry has returned in force into the Peninsula, from Liberty to Lebanon. General Burnside had better send down toward Tompkinsville a couple of brigades, one of which, occnpying Carthage, would give us two for advance toward McMinnville. We only want ~ our battery and cavalry horses, and the return of our sjj~ire baggage, and we shall be ready to move; but I regard it as a matter of great importance, if it can possibly be done, to send an expedition up the Ten- nessee, making their first depot at Eastport, their second at Tuscumbia. I have concerted with Hurlbut an expedition on Tuscumbia, and to cut the Georgia Railroad. Sent 1,900 picked men. If this succeeds, rebels must be driven into Georgia. River low and falling; weather fair. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General. MUEFREESBOROUGH, April 12, 186311 p. m. (Received Memphis, April 16.) Major-General HuRLBuT: Colonel Streight, with near 2,000 picked men, will probably reach Eastport by Thursday next. Dodge, with the Marine Brigade and the gunboats, can occupy or whip the Tuscumbia forces, and let my force go directly to its main objectthe destruction of the railroads. This great enterprise, fraught with great consequences, I beg you to com- mend to Dodges care, enjoining on him to dispatch Streight by every means to his destination. Nothing, if possible, should for a moment arrest his progress. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. FRANKLIN, April 12, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS My opinion is that if we move on Van Dorn with force enough to crush him, he will scatter and run. If hehas the stronger force and position Page 233 CrIAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 233 and is sure of beating us, it is no use to drive him across Duck River. unless we have sufficient force on this flank to keep him there; otherwise he will return to near our front, wherever that may be. This point is quite as far from our base as it is safe to push troops, considering our communication with the base and center. You do not seem to under- stand why it is so difficult to surprise and crush Van Born. In the first place, he keeps every road and lane and hill-top for miles picketed; the country people are his friends and are always ready to give infor- mation. His policy is to fight when he is sure to win, and always run when his success is doubtful. The nature of his troops, being mounted, without baggage or transportation, enables him to do this with great facility; besides, a portion of his troops were [raised] here, and know every road and by-path. If my force here had always been sufficiently large to cope with and beat Van Born, he never could have gained any advantage over us; but the truth is, I have been kept here with a force about one-half as large as his, of new and inferior troops, working night and day on fortifications and doing arduous guard duty. When it be- comes necessary to punish or move against Van Born we are compelled to bring troops from distant points, which, of course, becomes at once known to him. He holds himself in readiness to run, and the golden opportunity is lost before they arrive. In case we move against Van Born, and he gives us battle, I can defeat him. I think it will amply pay for the needful movements and risk. I am extremely anxious to whip Van Born, and settle up accounts with him contracted at Thomp- sons Station and Brentwood. G. GRANGEB, Major- General. General GARFIELD, GALLATIN, April 12, 186311.50 a. m. Chief of Staff: I am confident that there is, at least probably, 15,000 men in Lebanon and roads toward Bairds Mills and Liberty. They told a rebel, who told my detective, that word was given out yesterday morning and Friday that, by God, they would hold Lebanon, if it took all of their army. I shall draw out my ferry-boats, and, if driven to it, destroy them. The rebels must hold Lebanon or fail in s~ipplies. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General. 6 General GARFIELD, GALLATIN, April 12, 18632.10 p. m. Chief of Staff: Another scout has just come in who saw at least 1,000 men on the other side of the Cumberland, 16 miles from here, with some artillery. A rebel told him, supposing the scout to be a rebel, that they would hold Lebanon; that they intended to swim over enough to take the couriers coming from General Crook with the mail. I have no cavalry force to send, and it is too far for infantry and too late. I am going to the river this evening to haul out my boats or destroy them. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier-General Page 234 234 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [ChAP. XXXv. CAIRo, April 12, 1863. General IROSECItANS: Marine Brigade will leave here to-night or to.morrow morning; it is not composed of gunboats, but of river boats, musket-proof. Brigade consists of one regiment of infantry, one squadron of cavalry, and one battery of light artillery, four guns, and is intended to act promptly against small bands near river banks, and in co-operation with gunboats. General Ellet has special instruction for his guidance from Admiral Porter. Have given General Ellet a copy of your dispatch. A. N. PENNOCK, - Fleet Captain and Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMEERLAND, No. 78. f Murfreesborough, Tenn., April 12, 1863. The following allowance of tents is prescribed for the troops of this army, in active service in the field: For the headquarters of an army corps, division, or brigade, one wall tent for the commanding general, and one for every two officers of his staff; for the field and staff officers of every regiment, three wall tents; for the sick of every regiment, one hospital tent; for regimental hospital stores, one wall tent; for every company of infantry and cavalry, one wall tent; for every battery of artillery, two wall tents; for every com- missioned line officer, one shelter tent; for every two non-commissioned officers, soldiers, officers servants, and authorized camp followers, one shelter tent. There will be allowed for office purposesfor the headquarters of an army corps, one hospital and four wall tents; for the headquarters of a division, four wall tents; for the headquarters of a brigade, three wall tents. Where regiments are supplied with other than wall tents, the allow- ance prescribed by this order for companies and for hospital stores will be retained from the tents belonging to the regiment. The allowance of tents to companies and batteries is prescribed, in order to provide a place in which the company books and papers may be properly kept. Commanding officers will, therefore, see that these tents are not used for any purpose which will interfere with that contemplated in these orders. All the tentage of this army, in excess of this allowance, will be im- mediately packed and made ready for storage. Each tent will be pl~inly marked~vith the name of the regiment to which it belongs, and packed in such a manner that the mark can be readily seen. By command of lVlajor.General Rosecrans : C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 12, 186310.30 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, 6incinnati, Ohio: It will not be possible to furnish at present armaments for all the forts contemplated by you. Fortifications must, as a general rule, be constructed by the troops and contrabands. H. W. HALLECK~ General.in-Ckief Page 235 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 235 HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, April12, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: Your dispatch in reference to the fortifications at Louisville is received. There are no soldiers at Louisville available for labor, and but a limited number of contrabands, and as there will be a difficulty in furnishing the armament, I shall not commence the work without further instruc- tions from you. There is nothing new from the front, save vague reports of a large concentration of troops on the river, said to be for the purpose of inva- sion, but there is nothing reliable as yet. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. CINcINNATI, April 12, 1863. General W. S. ROSECEANS, - Commanding liepartment: The four regiments you ask for will be sent to you as soon as possible. Ducat will leave early to-morrow. A. E. BUkN SIDE, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 13, 18631 a. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: General Dodge says his scouts along the Tennessee report great ac- tivity along the river in building flat-boats and collecting forage between Florence and Decatur. It may mean l)reparations for temporary ferriage, but it may mean crossing of troops. Whether Yicksburgers this way or Braggs forces the other, remains to be seen. You may know things to help solve the question. W. S. IIOSECRANS, Major- General, 6ommanding. CORINTH, April 13, 1863. Major-General IIuRLBUT: My assistant adjutant-g neral has just returned from Tuscumbia. Two brigades and one battery have been added to their command since last Sunday a week ago. Under general reconnaissance it appears~ that they expected a move by way of the Tennessee River by Major-General Rosecrans. They have now there 6,000 men and eleven pieces of artil- lery. This is certain- I sent full report to General Oglesby, with re- quest for him to seiid to you. At Tuscumbia they had a telegram of the 11th from Charleston, saying our forces were advancing upon them by land. (1. M. DODGE, Brigadier-General Page 236 236 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, ]Jifemphis, Tenn., April 13, 1863. Brig. Gen. GLIENVILLE M. Don~E, Gommanding Oorinth, Miss.: I send you the following dispatch, received this day: MURFREESBOROIJGU, April 11, 1863. My expedition leaves Nashville by river to-day. It will probably reach hamburg six days hence. Dodge should move as soon as your orders can reach him. Should communicate with my force by messenger at Hamburg, so that each may know the whereabouts of the other. My force will probably land at Eastport. W. S. ROSECPLANS, Major. General. You will move on Wednesday, as agreed. S. A. IIURLBUT, Major- General. I MEMPHIS, April 13, 1863. General RosECRANS: Henrys [?] force at Tuscurubia and Florence, 5,800. Over 5,000 of them are cavalry; eleven pieces of artillerysix at Tuscumbia and five at Florence. Dodge moves from Florence to Juka to-morrow. Nothing heard yet of gunboats or Ellets Marine Brigade. Dodge takes 5,000 men. If you come up, affairs will be settled. HUIELBUT. FRANKLIN, April 13, 1863. General IROSECRANS: The railroad between Columbia and Decatur is not used, though I believe in repair. Have no information from the Tennessee. The enemy in this vicinity is stationary, so far as I know. Sent General Baird with flag of truce yesterday about exchanging our wounded at Columbia. General Gilbert went out to-day to receive Van Dorns reply. The matter has been referred to Bragg. Baird and Gilbert, who met Cosby and Armstrong, report the rebels much dejected. Much reason to be; the bottom is about knocked out of the Southern Confederacy. When will Crook be here? I need him badly. G. GRANGEH, Jiiliajor- General. FRANKLIN, April 13, 18638 a. m. Major-General IROSECRANS: My troops are on the way back, by the direct road. I have given them orders to retaliate tbr the attack on the train. I intend to burn (lown every house that has a rebel member in Dick M ~ force. Will be at Murfreesborongh to-night. D. S. STANLEY, Major-General Page 237 GgAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 237 GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 38 Cincinnati, Ohio, April 13, 1863. The commanding general publishes, for the information of all con- cerned, that hereafter all persons fonnd within our lines who commit acts for the benefit of the enemies of our country will be tried as spies or traitors, and, if convicted, will suffer death. This order includes the following class of persons: Carriers of secret mails; writers of letters sent by secret mails; secret recruiting officers within the lines; persons who have entered into an agreement to pass our lines for the purpose of joining the enemy; persons found concealed within our lines belong- ing to the service of the enemy, and, in fact, all persons found improp- erly within our lines who could give private information to the enemy, and all persons withiu our lines who harbor, protect, conceal, feed, clothe, or in any way aid the enemies of our country. The habit of de- claring sympathy for the enemy will not be allowed in this department. Persons committing such offenses will be at once arrested, with a view to being tried as above stated, or sent beyond our lines into the lines of their friends. It must be distinctly understood that treason, expressed or implied, will not be tolerated in this department. All officers and soldiers are strictly charged with the execution of this order - By command of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant-General. FRANKLIN, April 14, 1863. M~jor-General IROSECRANS: Dispatch received. Will send official report as soon as possible, and hope to be able to finish up Van Dorn at an early day, although it is impossible to catch him with infantry or whip him with my small cav- alry force. No news from the front: Cant you spare me two or three more regimeiits of cavalry ~ Who is responsible for Brentwood? I learn that Morgans forces are not judiciously posted. I am compelled to keep one of my strongest and best regiments of cavalry there. Please hurry up guns for fortifications. It is quite certain that Van Dorn was badly wounded in the head by a piece of shell, and carried from the field. G. GRANGER, Major-General. CINCINNATI, April 14, 1863 General WILLOOX, Lexington: General Wright telegraphs that his scouts from Lebanon report that a regiment of rebels (cavalry) passed through Columbia at 8.45 last night. Tell Colonel Runkle to be on the alert, and to move on them if they are there. What do you hearl A. E. BURNSIDE Page 238 238 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEkDQUAI?TERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, April 14, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington, Ky.: The following orders have just been sent to General Wright: Carter confirms the report that the enemy were at Columbia last night. Move your cavalry force from Lebanon on Columbia, via Campbellsville, to co-operate with Carters force from Hustonville to Columbia. Let the commanding officer keep his scouts well out, to avoid being surprised, in case the enemy should be moving with his whole force on Lebanon. Hold the infantry force at Lebanon, and all the forces at Glasgow, ready to move at a moments notice, with three days provisions. Send me frequent reports, and tell Carter to send full information of the movements of the enemy. A. E. BURNSIDE~ ]tft~jor- General, Gommanding Department of the Ohio. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 39. Cincinnati, Ohio, April 14, 1863. I. Brig. Gen. John S. Mason, U. S. Volunteers, is relieved from the command of the District of Ohio, and assigned to the command of the United States forces at Columbus, Ohio. IL Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby assigned to the command of the District of Ohio, headqnarters at Cincinnati. By command of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. bEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 40. Cincinnati, Ohio, April 14, 1863. All the troops in this command will at once provide themselves with shelter tents, and turn in the others. Only the regulation allowance of wall tents will be allowed to each regiment. Regimental trains must be brought down to regulation allowance, and all the remainder of the wagons will be organized into ammunition and supply trains, and move at the shortest notice. Forty rounds ammunition will be kept in cartridge-boxes all the time, and 20 additional rounds will be carried in the pockets of each man, to be kept ready for issue before starting on the march. Sufficient supplies will be kept on hand to fill the wagons with ten days hard bread and small rations, and three days in haversack. Beef-cattle for fifteen days supply will be kept on hand at safe and convenient points, to be driven with the troops. From ten to fifteen days forage for all the animals should be accumulated as early as pos- sible. The ammunition trains should contain at least 60 rounds per man, and the batteries should have a full supply on hand all the time Page 239 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 239 The baggage and camp equipage of officers must be kept within limits that will allow them to be transported by regimental trains, and the mens knapsacks must not be overloaded. Prompt requisitions should be made for any deficiencies in clothing, and each man should be provided with one extra pair of shoes. Horses of all the mounted regiments and batteries must be kept well shod. The troops will habitually be kept in a condition to break up camp and move at the shortest notice. The attention of the responsible officers is called to the necessity of a prompt obedience of this order. By command of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE (JUMBERLAND, ]Jiliurfreesborough, April 15, 1863. Maj. Gen. THOMAS L. CRITTENDEN, Commanding Tuenty-ftrst Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs me to inform you that reports have reached here that a considerable force of rebels intend to attack our outposts on Stones River to-night. The rebel force is re- ported to-day as being between Cainsville and Milton, and were t4~ come in in the direction of the latter place. The general commanding directs you to send out three brigades immediately, two on the Lebanon and the other on the Las Casas pike, to strengthen these outposts. The cavalry will be held in readiness to go out in the morning, if necessary. Your men should take three days rations, and be in readiness to make an expedition against the. rebels beyond Stones River to-morrow. The general desires to consult with you in person as soon as the above order is delivered. Your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of AS~taffi HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, ]JJiu~freesborough, April 15, 1863. Maj. Gen. D. S. STANLEY, Commanding Cavalry: It is reported that the rebels design to attack our outposts on Stones River to-night, on the Lebanon or Liberty pike. They are reported in considerable force between Cainsville and Milton to-day. The general commanding directs you to be in readiness to go against them in the morning. Three brigades have just been ordered out to support the outposts. Please come to headquarters when you have given the neces- sary orders. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff Page 240 240 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesliorough, April 15, 1863. Maj. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS Commanding Pourte~nth Corps: Brisk cannonading is now going on in the direction of Readyville. The general commanding directs you to hold your command in readi. ness, with two days rations, to march, if necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. CLARKSVILLE, April 15, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: I have barricaded the ferry-boat Excelsior with hay, and used it as a gunboat. Convoyed fleet above the Shoals with it; recovered the starboard gun from the wreck of the Sidell; dispersed rebel band at the Shoals, who were waiting to fire on unprotected boats. Captured several of the men belonging to Woodwards command. S. D. BRUCE, Colonel, Commanding. CARTHAGE, TENN., April 15, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, ]Jfurfreesborough, Tenn.: I sent three regiments to Rome day before yesterday to protect the boats by that point. They returned by way of Middleton yesterday morning. They came upon the enemy there in force; skirmishing ensued without much result on either side. I sent General Spears with his brigade last evening as re-enforcements, thinking he could only drive theni away without catching them. He returned during the night, leav- ing the rebels there. The rebel force is estimated from 6,000 to 10,000. From the most reliable information. I think they have nearly 4,000, with one battery of artillery. From prisoners captured, they state that the force is composed of Wheelers, Whartons, and Morgans com- mands, and that Wheeler and Wharton are in command; also that part of this force captured the cars at La Vergue. This force came from the direction of Lebanon, where they had a forage train. I think this demonstration is to cover some move, as they are not foraging. I have a secret expedition between here and Gallatin. I have but one boat (Fisher) here. I cannot send it to Nashville until some boat takes its place. The river is rising, and probably this will be the last opportunity to get supplies here by water. My requisitions for the nec- essary supplies have been sent. Will there be any cavalry here soon i When will the gunboats be sent here I We need them. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. FRANKLIN, April 15, 1863. General ROSECRANS: It is reported that rebel cavalry are concentrating on Hardin pike, near ilarpeth. I have ordered out scouts early in the morning to find out. It is possible they intend to make a circuit of our positions, passin Page 241 CiIAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 241 between Nashville, Brentwood, and La Vergne, and out toward Lebanon, intercepting and destroying the trains on both railroads. G. GRANGER. GALLATIN, TENN., April 15, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD: The freight train ran back with the news that the track is torn 5 miles north of here, and the rebels are at the tunnel. Shall leave here in fifteen minutes with 600 men on the cars. E. A. PAINE. Maj. Gen. STEPHEN A. HUELBUT, COLUMBUS, Ky., April 15, 1863. Gommanding & xteenth Army Corps, Memphis, Tenn.: GENERAL: I have the honor to report that, l)ursuant to orders com- municated in my report under No. 1t78, to search th~ house and neigh. borhood of one Henderson Wright, south of the Obion River, in order to capture the rebel Captain Scales, with his band, Captain Hutchens, commanding Company E, Fifteenth Illinois Cavalry, started on the morning of the 9th instant, and, crossing the Obion, after a ride of 43 miles reached the plantation of Wright, occupied by the rebel Captain Scales as his headquarters in his organization of a battalion. A body of cavalry received our men with a volley of musketry, but Captain Hutchens ordered a charge, resulting in the death of 4 of the rebels and capture of 26 men, with 13 horses and of the band. , the complete dispersion Among the prisoners, a list of whom is herewith inclosed,* are Captain Scales, the commander of a rebel battalion, an~d Lieutenant Vorheis, with their appointments as officers of the rebel army in their pockets; also Henderson Wright, a most dangerous rebel. From positive information, 1 would state that there are yet several bodies of conscripts, under Captains Parks, Carter, and others, appointed by Pillow and Forrest, south of the Obion, and I only await the return of my informant with guides to make a combined cavalry movement on them, as the Fourth Missouri Cavalry has arrived, and will be in a few days ready for duty. Reviewing the presence of rebel parties on the Obion, at Paris, and Mussy, Tenn., and another at Dresden, Tenn., in connection with the avowed and published intention of PilloW to conscript in the counties of my district, I must regard as most opportune the decision of the General-in-Chief in permitting the Fourth Missouri Cavalry to remain in this district. Adjutant-General Thomas, on his late visit to this post, also admitted the necessity of more cavalry here. I therefore respectfully solicit the exercise of your influence to prevent the projected removal of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry to the Department of the Cumberland, and i~d~ it is urgently required to send more cavalry to Fort ileiman, and form a con- necting chain of cavalry posts between the Mississippi and Tennessee, also to control properly the railroad and telegraph, I would request that an additional regiment of cavalry be ordered for duty to my district. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. * Omitted. ~16 R UVOL XXLU, PT I Page 242 242 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CUAP. XXXV. CINCINNATI, Ouio, April 15, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: The enemy attempted to cross the Cumberland at iRobertsport last night, but retreated as soon as our forces made their appearance. All quiet this morning. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, April 15, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington, Ky.: In the absence of more definite information from Wolford, the dispo- sition of the troops can remain as they are for the present. If it should prove that the enemy have really crossed in force, you must concentrate our forces at a point where we can meet them. The forces at Lebanon are held in readiness to co-operate with Carter at a moments notice. It may become necessary to move the whole of Sturgis division down to Richmond. If the emergency arises, give such orders as you may deem necessary, and you will be sustained. Keep your operators on the alert, and instruct your officers in the advance to send you frequent reports, which you can transmit to the headquarters. I cannot believe that the enemy is crossing in a force equal tQ what we can concentrate to meet them. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major-General, Commanding Department. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMI3ERLAND, ]llurfreesborough, April 16, 1863. Maj. Gen. D. S. STANLEY, Chief of Cavalry: The general commanding has determined to drive the rebels from the country between Stones River, Caney Fork, and the Cumberland. To effect this purpose he places under your command the following forces: Two brigades of infantry and Colonel Wilders force of mounted infantry now at the crossing of Stones River, on the Lebanon pike, and two brigades o~ infantry now 5 miles from this place, o~ the Las Casas pike. These forces have been supplied with five days rations, and ordered to hold themselves in readiness to march to-morrow morning. In addition to these, you will take your available cavalry force. The general com- manding suggests that a column should be sent by way of Bairds Mills, and from there by Statesville to Liberty, or by way of Lebanon and Alexandria to Liberty, as may seem best. From Liberty you will push on rapidly to McMin~iville, and, if possible, destroy the rebel forces OP drive them from that place and its vicinity. Destroy the cotton mills there, and all depots of supplies for the rebel army. The general desires you to make thorough work this time, so there may be no need of an- other expedition. General Morton has been ordered to be ready with his pontoon train at daylight to-morrow morning, to throw two bridges across Stones River, one on the Lebanon and the other on the Las Casas pike. You will send a staff officer to commnujcate any orders to- the forces on these pikes that you may desire. Yery respectftdly, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General a~4 Qhiel ~f Staff. Page 243 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 243 HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Maj. Gen. ~. ~. ROSECRANS, Memphis, Tenn., April 16, 1863. ]Jlurfreesborouyh, Tenn.: Dodge is now on Bear Creek. Nothing heard of your expedition. S. A. HUELBUT, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Teun., April 16, 1863. Maj. Gen. RICHARD J. OGLESBY, Gomdg. Left Wing, Sixteenth Army Corps, Jackson, Teun.: GENERAL: The following telegram has just been received: General HURLBUT: MURFREESBOROUGH, A~riZ 12, 1863. Colonel Streight, with near 2,000 picked men, will probably reach Eastport by Thursday next. Dodge, with the Marine Brigade and the gunboats, can occupy or whip the Tuscumbia forces, and let my forces go directly to the main objectthe destruction of the railroads. This is a great enterprise, fraught with great conse- quences. I beg you to commend to Dodge care, enjoining on him to dispatch Streight by every means to his destination. Nothing, if possible, should for a moment arrest his progress. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. General Dodge will act according to the instructions in the above telegram. By order of Major-General Huribut: HENRY BINMORE, Assistant Adjutant- General. CARTHAGE, April 16, 1863. (Via Gallatin, April 175 p. in.) Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Enemy are between Liberty and Alexandria, apparently recruiting their stock. I think they could easily be entrapped by forces coming from Lebanon and Mnrfreesborongh pikes simultaneously with a force from here. Should you wish me to move them, give me two days notice, and I will be there at any hour you appoint. There are a lot of soldiers belonging to this command at Nashville and vicinity, some skulking and some have got themselves detailed, & c., producing a very demoral- izing effect on this command. Will you please give me an order so I can get these men whenever I can find them? GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. HEADQUAIITEUS, Cincinnati, April 16, 1863. General HORATIO G. WRIGHT: Your proposition for movement of cavalry to Celina and Burkesville is approved, but I think the number of men should be larger. Send the whole cavalry force from Lebanon as near to Columbia as possible, & nd order all the country scoured in the direction of Creelsborough an Page 244 244 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIIA?. XXXV. Jamestown. I shall order General Wilicox to increase his cavalry forces at Somerset and London, and to scour the country in his front. You can issue the orders at once. Ascertain from your advance what means we can have for crossing at Creelsborough and Burkesville, with a view of getting in the rear of Monticello at the same time that a cavalry force is crossed at Waitsborough and Mill Springs. I send a copy of dispatch sent to General Willcox, and this dispatch will be repeated to him. I inclose a copy of dispatch sent to General Wright. I understand you that you sent the Second Ohio Cavalry to Somerset. Have Garrards regiment ready to start, and ascertain from Wolford what [means] he can have for crossing at Waitsborough and Mill Springs. The dispatch to General Wright will explain to you the object of this movement. There is no reason why we should not capture the force at Monti- cello, or break them up, if we can cross the river. The Forty-fourth Ohio can scour the country in front of London, and Wolford in front of Somerset. What artillery has Wolford in front? A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, Commanding. Major.General BURNSIDE, CINCINNATI, April 16, 1863. Commanding Department of the Ohio: GENERAL: I have the honor to submit the following memoranda, showing the present military wants of tlie district nuder my command, according to the best of my judgment, viz: The troops within the district should be iiicreased to an aggregate of at least 4,000, requiring an addition of 2,500 men, all of which addition should be infantry. A double line of fortifications (earthworks), the rear of secondary line placed opposite the intervals of the front or advanced line, and distant from each other not more than a days march for infantryat most not over 30 miles. This line should be extended. on both sides of the boundaries of the district, communication with the forces on either side maintained, and co-operation, when necessary, required. The erection of a telegraph line from Gallipolis to a point opposite Catlettsburg, on the Ohio River, with a lateral line to such point as may be determined upon as headquarters of the district. Two full batteries of artillery (sixteen pieces), smooth-bores and how. itzers, two of the latter to be 12-pounders, the remainder 6-pounders. Four mountain howitzers exclusive of the above. Enfleld or Springfield- rifles for the Thirty-ninth Kentucky Mounted Infantry, with slings and without bayonets. The arms now in possession of that regiment to be deposited with my ordnance officer, for the use of citizens when called into camp, but not to be carried to their homes. A commissary of subsistence, Captain [William L.] Mallory, lately on duty with me, having been relieved and ordered to report to General Rosecrans, his successor should be a vigorous, energetic man, as well as thoroughly informed in his duties. A competent engineer, to locate and design the fortifications con- templated at such points as may be designated. Subsistence for six months shOuld be taken up by water (Big Sandy Itiver) during the spring, and field transportation, except between the posts or stations at and near the front, dispensed with entirely, period- ical supply by wagon trains being attended with great difficulty, hazard, and expense. Most of the supplies should be held in reserve at the most convenient point, for distribution to the outposts, and strongly guarded Page 245 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 245 These things have been already discussed, and are respectfully sub- mitted as a reminder only, not as suggestions. I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General, Commanding Eastern Kentucky. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., Major-General HALLECK April 17, 15634 p.m. General-in-Chief: Please authorize me to suspend the execution of General Orders, No. 86, current series, from the War iDepartment,* until, thorough examina- tion can be had and report made to you. All the general officers here will concur in saying that its immediate execution will strike a severe blow at the spirit and discipline of the army, and would deprive me of the services of many able and experienced officers, who will be greatly needed when regiments are filled up. I fully concur in these views, and think the framework of most of the regiments should be preserved and filled with conscripts, which will greatly expedite the increase of our military force. On the contrary, the immediate execution of this or(ler will greatly impair our present strength, and by and by give us new regiments wholly made up of raw material. We have already had a sad experience in regard to the inefficiency of such a force. The order will fall with peculiarly disastrous weight on our batteries. I earnestly solicit an early response. W. S. IROSECI~ANS, ]Ifajor- Gerneral. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, April 17, 186312.30 p. m. General~in- Chief: No advices from those two regiments of Michigan cavalry. Will they be sent I I repeat what I have often said, tbe true objective for us being the enemys forces, not a locality, our fundamental want is mounted forces sufficient to control the country, and, in case we beat them, to follow and destroy them. I have been urgent in asking for horses since October last. We have 3,500 dismounted cavalry. If horses cannot be purchased, they should be pressed. W. S. ItOSECIIANS, ]Ilajor- General. CORINTH, April 117 [0?], 1863. Major-General OGLESBY, Jackson: Captain [George E.] Spencer, my assistant adjutant-general, has just returned from Tuscumbia; succeeded in getting through all the enemys camps and obtaining valuable information. The forces are posted as follows: Colonel Dibrell, 900 men, at Tuscumbia Landing; Colonel [Josiah] Patterson, 1,000, at Florence; Colonel [M. W.j Hannon, 1,800, * Of April 2, 1863, which directs the consolidation of regiments, & c., and the muster- out of supernumerary officers. See Series III Page 246 246 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA.; AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. at Tuscumbia; Colonel Roddeys old regiment, 800, at Tuscumbia Land- ing; Baxter Smith, 350, 10 miles this side; Colonel Hampton [?], 300, at same place; [W. ZR.] Julian, 300, at Greys, 6 miles this side, and Smith, 100, at Big Bear. The above all cavalry. Between Courtland and Tuscumbia, one brigade of infantry, nnder Colonel Wood, as fol- lows: Colonel [A. II.] Helvenston, 400; Colonel [J. B.] Bibb, 500; Colonel [W. B.] Wood, Sixteenth Alabama, 400. The last brigade, and one brigade of cavalry, nnder General iRoddey, arrived at Tuscumbia last week. This more than doubles their force. They have also five pieces of artillery at Florence and six pieces at Tuscumbia. Please forward this immediately to General Hurlbnt, as it may change his movements. It is reliable, Captain Spencer having been sent there to ascertain the facts. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. MUNFoRDYILLE, April 17, 1863. Captain SEMPLE, Assistant Adjutant- General: Colonel Capron arrived in Glasgow at 10 a. m. Colonel Graham, - with 1,200 men, started for Celina at 1 p. in.; ~ satisfied he can compete with any force he may meet on the march. He reports 150 rebels at Tompkinsvifle, instead of 2,500, and not exceeding 1,000 at Burkes- ville. E. H. HOBSON, Brigadier- General, Commanding. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 104. Murfreesborough, April 17, 1863. * * * * * * * XIX. Brig. Gen. John M. Schofield is assigned to, and will assume,. command of the Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. * * * * * * * XXI. Brig. Gen. J. B. Turchin is assigned to, and will at once as sume, command of the Second Brigade, Second Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. XXII. The Second Brigade, First Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. John Beatty commanding, is hereby transferred to the Sec- ond Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, and will hereafter be known as First Brigade, Second Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. * * * * * * * XXV. Maj. Gen. D. S. Stanley, chief of cavalry, will proceed at once to Louisville, taking with him all dismounted cavalrymen in his com- mand. On arriving at Louisville, he will make arrangements for mount- ing the men as speedily as possible, reporting progress from time to time.~ * * * * . * * * By command of Major-General IRosecrans: II. THBALL, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General.__ * Detailed instructions omitted Page 247 cHAP. XXXV.] OOkl~tSPONDtNCt, ETC.UNJON. 24~ HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 17, 1863. General-in- Chief, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to submit to you the following points with regard to the position of forces in West Virginia: 1st. The enemys force in front of Newbern to the Tennessee line is a unit, and acts as one body; hence, whether they make aggressive move- ments through Eastern Kentucky or West Virginia, they can only be properly met when there is an intimate connection between the troops on the Kanawha and on the Big Sandy. 2d. The Kanawha Valley has its natural base of supplies at Galli- polis, in Ohio, and must draw its stores from the Department of the Ohio, while its connection with the East is remote, roundabout, and precarious. 3d. The Lower Kanawha region will always be unsafe, unless the Kentucky flank is guarded by a plan perfectly understood between the commandants of the two districts, and lack of this mutual understand- ing makes great liability to raids, such as that lately made to Point Pleasant. If connected, it will be easy to establish a chain of outposts across the entire front, while the supports at central points, like Charles- ton and Louisa, will be available at any part of the circumference. What would seem to be the natural boundary of that part of Virginia which should be attached to this department is the ridge between the Little and Great Kanawba, with the left of the West Virginia forces connecting with General Schenck, at Somerville Court-House. Without any desire to increase the limits of this department, I would respectfully suggest that the good of the public service seems to require that the forces of Eastern Kentucky and West Virginia should belong to one command. A copy of this communication has been sent to General Scheuck. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major. General, Commanding Department. CINCINNATI, April 17, 1863. General WRIGHT: I wish your forces to cross with a view to getting in rear of Monticello, but want Willcox to make a co-operating attack in front. Before giving the order, it is necessary, to avoid confusion, to know just how your cav- alry force from Lebanon and Glasgow will be situated to-night, with number of men and amount of artillery; in fact, an exact statement of the orders you have given is needed. I[ will inform you accurately of orders given to Willcox. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major. General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 18, 18632 p. m. Major-General HOSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: The Quartermaster-General has instructed his officers to furnish you with all the horses they can procure. You have full authority to seiz Page 248 248 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. all horses in the enemys territory, but we cannot impress them in loyal States. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, Ajpril 18, 186310.50 a. m. Major-General ROSEORANS, lltiurfreesborough, Tenn.: Orders, No. 86, does not require you to make the consolidation imme- diately. The time must depend npon the circumstances of each case, and is subject to your discretion. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, Murfreesborough, April 18, 1863. Maj. Gen. JOSEPH J. REYNOLDS, Commanding Fifth Division, Fourteenth Corps: The general commanding has determined to drive the enemys forces from the country between Stones River, Caney Fork, and the Cumber- land, and has designated you for that duty, and has placed nnder your command for that purpose the following forces, in addition to your own division: First, Second Brigade, Second Division, Twenty-first Army Corps, Brigadier-General Wagner commanding; second, Third Brigade, First Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, Colonel Hambright command- ing; third, 1,500 cavalry, Colonel Minty commanding. With this force you will proceed to Readyville on Monday, the 20th instant. From there you will march rapidly to ~1c~~innville, leaving two infantry brigades at Glasscocks, with orders to proceed from there to Half-Acre, and subsequently to join you at or near Mrs. Beckwiths, on the Smith- yule and Liberty pike. With your cavalry, mounted infantry, and one brigade of infantry you will push forward directly to McMinnville, de- stroying or capturing any rebel forces you may find there, and destroy the cotton mills and railroad trains, as well as all depots of supplies for the rebel army. From Glasscocks you will send such a force of cavalry as yon may judge sufficient for th~ purpose, to move southward by way of Jacksborough, and cut the railroad near Vervilla and rejoin you at McMinnville or on your journey northward. Yonr work at McMinnville and vicinity being accomplished, you will proceed to Liberty, having on the route formed a junction with the infantry force sent out by way of Half Acre. You are expected to reach Liberty on the 24th instant, at which time and place provisions will reach you from here, under guard of one brigade of infantry. General Crook will also communicate with you at that place from Carthage. On the following day send a portion of your cavalry back to Smith- yule, to ascertain if the enemy be following yon, and, if possible, draw him into an ambuscade. This done, you will send to their respective. camps such portions of the force under your command as you may not need for 1 he prosecution of yoni- work, and with the remainder proceed to Lebanon, where you will establish your teniporary headquarters, and completely sconr the country in the Peninsula, secure or destroy the supplies of rebels, and arrest and bring into camp all persons who Page 249 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 249 you may regard as dangerous to the interests of this army. You are authorized to modify any particulars in these general instructions when- ever circumstances shall render it clearly necessary, or any considerable advantage is to be gained by a departure from them. The general commanding desires you to do this work so thoroughly that another expedition will not be needed in that direction. Report your progress as often as practicable. The commanding officers of the forces placed under your command have been ordered to report to you in person for orders. Make a report of the number of rations aud amount of ammunition you will require to be sent you at Liberty. The brigade sent to escort it you are authorized to assume command of, if you need it. You can also take the wagon train with you to Lebanon, if you think proper. Finish your work in that direction, and return to camp as soon as possible. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff. JACKSON, April 18, 1863. Major-General IIURLBUT: Scout in at Corinth reports Lieutenant Fitch, commanding Lexing- ton, with two boats, went up river at daylight yesterday morning; thinks they reached Eastport last evening. Lieutenant Fitch has four of his best boats- can carry about 2,000 infantry. Two of his boats waiting at Fort ll~nry to convoy transports. River rising slowly. At dark last night, Seventh Kansas had not reached Chewalla. Dodge took all cavalry from Corinth and Glendale, leaving small detachments at Camp Davies and Chewalla. Part of this has been used as escort to messen- gers to Dodge. IR. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. General HuELnuT: JACKSON, April 18, 1863. Colonel Fuller sends following dispatch: A scout from Bear Creek says lie saw one regiment of infantry and one of cavalry cross Bear Creek at Manns Ferry on Wednesday, and plant twelve guns on the west bank. Another scout from Booneville brings rumor of 16,000 rebels, and adds that Forrest, Morgan, and Roddey, with part of Van Dorns lorce, are also between us and Tuscumbia. I have directed Fuller to send same dispatch to Dodge. R. J. OGLESBY, Major- Gene4-al. HEADQUARTERS PROVISIONAL BRIGADE, Savannah, Tenn., April 18, 1863. Brig. Gen. GRENVILLE M. DODGE: Yours of the 14th is before me. I will move up the river at day- light to-morrow morning. We h~we 130,000 rationa on board for you. Will halt at Hamburg for messenger from you, and if I do not hear fro Page 250 250 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CuAr. KXXV. you there, I will proceed to Eastport, where I shall endeavor to open communication with you. Ellets Marine Brigade and four gunboats are with us. I am, sir, your most obedient servant, A. 1). STREIGHT, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMRNT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, April 18, 1863. General WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky.: The following dispatch has just been received from General Wright: APRIL 17. Colonel Bramlette, district attorney, gives the following as disposition of rebel force in Wayne County: One regiment at Hales, 4 miles from Monticello, on Albany road; one in Monticello; one on Somerset road, 5 miles above Monticello; one or two 1 mile from Mill Springs; one 12 miles above Monticello, on Somerset road; one on Coffeys place, near Monticello; and that there are nine in all; two not located; all mounted, and estimated not to exceed 3,000 in all. Another estimate by scouts sent out by General Rosecrans, and fnrnished by them to General Manson, puts number at 5,000, with five guns. The two regiments from Lebanon will not probably pass beyond Columbia to-night, and the third did not leave Lebanon until near S p. m. to-day. Force from Glasgow moved at 1 p. m. to-day, 1,200 strong. Another, dated 11.40 p. in., says: Colouel Jacob, with two regiments and two pieces, bas arrived at Columbia, and sends reports that three rebel regiments are across the Cumberland at Burkesville, and other regiments are said to be at different points on that river. I have sent him the following order: Close up your command, and move on rebels at Burkesville to-morrow, unless you find them in too strong force. We onght to be able to attack them Snnday morning with fresh horses and troops. Leave order at Columbia for the Tlleventh Kentucky to proceed to Creelsborough, unless the rebels are in too strong force there to be met by Holemaus small command. Any movement toward Jamestown will be deferred till further orders. I have replied to General Wright as follows: Your dispositions of troops, as advised by your last dispatch, seem to be correct, and are approved. Let the movement as to crossing the river remain discretionary with the commanding officer at the front. There will be time to order it peremptorily to-night if circumstances to-day seem to warrant it. Willcox has been ordered to at- tack any force that may be on this sideof the river near Somerset to-morrow morning. This last dispatch has just beefi sent to Wright. You will, therefore, direct your forces at Somerset to concentrate, so as to make an attack to-morrow morning on any rebel forces that may be on the north side of the Cumberland in that neighborhood. The crossing will be left dis- cretionary with, the commanding officer. He is supposed to move care- fully, so as not to be attacked by the whole rebel force at once and over- whelmed. There will be time to order the crossing peremptorily to- night if the developments of to-day should warrant it. A. E. BURNSJDE. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, April 18, 1863. General WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky.: Wrights dispatch, a copy of which I sent to you, indicates his points of attack. About 1,200 cavalry will attack at Burkesville, and the forces from Glasgow will attack at Celina Page 251 CIAP. XXXv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 251 I have heard nothing from Wright to-day, but am expecting informa- tion very soon. Yonr force, which is to attack in front of Somerset, will not cross until further orders, unless the commanding officer should discover that his force is large enough to cross and beat the enemy. I will communicate with you again when I hear from Wright. A. E. BURNSJDE. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH AR1~1Y CORPS, Jackson, Tenn., April 18, 1863. Lieut. Col. HENRY BINMORE, A. A. U., Memphis, Teun.: SIR: The following dispatch was received this morning from Corinth by messenger: U. S. GUNBOAT LEXINGTON, April 16, 1863. Brig. Gen. GRENYILLE M. DODGE, Commanding United States Forces, Gorinth, Miss.: I have received your dispatches of the 1st and 3d instant. There will be two or four boats on the river all the time as long as there is water. Our coal depot is be- low; therefore the boats will have to make trips down for fuel, but will return as soon as coaled, unless urgent necessity compels me to send them off on short temporary trips elsewhere. I would havebeen back here before this had it not been that my presence was required up the Cumberland. I regret to say that~ the river is too low just now, and has been for some time, for my boats to get over Coulters Shoals, but I am anxiously awaiting a rise. The river is now rising slowly, but whether there will be water enough for a week yet to let us get over or not I cannot yet say. I trust, though, there will. I will be ready to take advantage of it I have on thisriver at the present time four of my best boats. This, I trust, will be sufficient, as the re- mainder of the fleet is required to convoy transports on the Cumberland. Should necessity require it, I could, for a short period, have more boats here. With these four boats, I can carry about 2,000 infantry. If the water will rise sufficiently to let us over the shoals, I will guarantee to cut off their re-enforcements from the Florence side. We can soon drive them off or capture their entire force on the Tuscumbia side. I do not think, from what I can learn, that there is a very heavy force now at Tuscum- hia Landing. I am expecting some transports up with troops from Nashville, and left two of the gunboats at Fort Henry to give them convoy. I will let you know as soon as I can get over the shoals, and if the troops do not arrive from General Rose- crans, I would suggest that, if you can send 2,000 infantry on the gunboats and cav- alry by land, we make a move without waiting, as the river is not likely to remain long at a sufficient stage. I do not think there will be over one more rise this season, and by waiting too long we may lose our only chance at Florence with the gun- boats. Many thanks for your kindness. Very respectfully, LEROY FITCH, Lieutenant Commanding. P. S-I will try to keep you informed of my whereabouts, and will also send you all the information I can gather. I expect to be bet~ween Duck River and Chickasaw for several days yet, unless the river again commences falling rapidly. My instruc- tions from Admiral Porter are, Go down as the river falls, and, of course, I ascend as it rises. Respectfully, yours, R. J. OGLESBY, Major-General of Volunteers. HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Jackson, April 19, 1863. Lient. Col. HENRY BINMORE, Asst. Adjt. Gen., 16th Army Gorps, Memphis, Tenn.: SIR: I inclosed the dispatch of Lieutenant Fitch, comrn~nding gun- boat Lexington, to General Dodge, by mail. The Seventh Kansas a Page 252 252 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CuAr. xxxv. rived last night at Corinth; one company detailed this morning to carry dispatches to General Dodge. May I ask if Captain [Charles] Wills has been detailed on my staff as aide-de-camp? I place no reliance upon the exaggerated reports of scouts yesterday as to forces of enemy on the line of Bear Creek and Tennessee River, nor as to movement at this time to cut railroad between Jackson and Bethel. Most respectfully, your obedient servant, It. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. JACKSON, April 19, 1863. Major-General IIURLBUT: The following [dispatch] of this day just received from Colonel Fuller: Have just heard from Colonel Streight and General Ellet. Streight says he would stop at Hamburg this morning. If he found no messenger there, would go up to Eastport, and would try to communicate there. Ellet fears cant go above Hamburg; his boats draw too much to reach either of the places Dodge designated. I have for- warded this news to Dodge. J. W. FULLER, Colonel, Commanding. IR. J. OGLESBY, Major. General. JACKSON, April 19, 1863late p. m. Major-General HUELBUT: Colonel Fullers forces will leave at G to-morrow. He will wait until my arrival there at 9. He says he leaves about 800 men; unable to march 200. Convalescents organized into three battalions. The outposts are about as they were before. In place of the 2,000 from here, I have ordered 600 infantry from Bolivar. I have ordered no cavalry from here. I think Dodge will have his hands full if he crossed Bear Creek again. OGLESBY, llifajor-General. JACKSON, April 19, 1863. Major-General JITJRLBUT: I send following dispatches from Fuller, just received, dated April 18 and 19: Refugees, just in at Glendale, report heavy cannonading on Thursday near Tuscum- bia. Another scout reports hearing five or six shots near Chickasaw, or Bear Creek. I think it was rebels firing on our cavalry far in advance of infantry. As it was so long after the general expected the Kansas cavalry, I am of opinion that it would be better for all to take the shortest route to Dodge. They have orders to start at 6. If you think best, I will countermand orders sending main body via Jacinto, and let all go through to Dodge. The scouts who destroyed railroad bridge report only three companies and one battery at Manns Ferry. Scouts have scoured the country beyond Kossuth. Report nothing this side of Hatchie. I hear nothing south nearer than Verona. J. W. FULLER. I have just sent the following to Fuller in reply: Colonel Fimunt: You had better follow order of Dodge, unless you clearly see it impracticable to do so. I see no reason why cavalry may not go by Jacinto. If Dodge wishes them to come direct, I think he would let you know, It. J. OGLESBY Page 253 Ca& r. XXXV.] 253 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, April 19, 1863. Maj. Gen. GEORGE II. THOMAS, Gommanding Fourteenth Corps: Brisk cannonading is now going on in the direction of IReadyville. The general commanding directs you to hold your command in readi- ness, with two days rations, to march, if necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Major- General and Chief of Staff. MURPREESBOROUGH, April 19, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: Colonel Ducat just arrived. Rebels appear active. Concentrate your west column near Glasgow or in front, and arrange for a grand depot at Bowling Green. Use your river. Massing rapidly near Glasgow highly advisable. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MUEFREESBOROUGH, April 19, 1863.11.45 p. m. Major-General BURNSIDE: Please tell Colonel Swords to let General Stanley have 2,000 horses for cavalry as soon as they can be purchased. W. S. IROSECRANS. MUEFREESBOROUGH, April 19, 1863. Major-General BuRNSIDE: You are where you can get horses; I am not; consequently, you should send me the Second Ohio Cavalry. You will have to mount infantry, as I do. W. S. ROSECIRANS, Major- General. IInQRS. SECOND DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, Winchester, Ky., April 19, 1863. Lient. Col. H. C. MITCHELL: SIR: I had authorized and directed Colonel Lilly, Fourteenth Ken- tucky Cavalry, to mount his dismounted men from the horses of avowed or notoriously disloyal citizens. Fearing, however, that his agents were not collecting the horses according to the spirit or letter of his orders, I have directed him to discontinue his operations. You will please, there- fore, take steps to procure a number not exceeding 150 horsesserv- iceable cavalry horses from the avowed or notorious secessionists in this country. In doing this, you will please bear in mind that it is im- portant that farming operations should not be broken up. Persons wh Page 254 254 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. are willing to take the oath of allegiance to the United States should be presumed loyal; in short, the weight of inconvenience that may arise to the community should fall as much as possible on the wealthy, who are receiving protection from the Government while sympathizing with our enemies. In regard to payment for these horses, you will please be guided by my letter to Colonel Lilly, a copy of which has been sent to you. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. D. STURGIS, Brigadier. General, Commanding. FRANKLIN, April 19, 1863. General ROSECEANS: I dont clearly understand the object of building a bridge at IRuther- ford, but will try to find out as early as possible. It will require two weeks labor to build the bridge, and stores are being brought to this side of Duck River constantly. If they attack Nashville on this flank, it must prove a failure; bnt if their object is to cross the Lower Cam- berland, it may cause us much trouble. I am inclined to believe that the bridge is for their own safety, and to procure a safe retreat. Unless Van Dorn is largely re.enforced, nothing can be accomplished against this flank. When our forts are done and the guns in position, 2,000 men can hold them against five times their numbers. Russell is home, and swears you are the greatest man living. The fortifications will be hurried to the utmost. G. GRANGER, Major- General. MEMPHIS, TENN., April 20, 18633 p. in. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in.Chief: I send for your information the following dispatch, sent by me: MEMPHIS, TENN., April 20, 1863. Major-General RosEcn~s: The enemy at Tuscumbia has been largely re-enforced by infantry. The delay in Streights coming up compelled Dodge to attack. He did so, and drove them from Bear Creek to Caney Creek with heavy loss. Our loss 100, and one piece of artillery disabled, but saved. Streight is now in Eastport, in communication with Dodge and the gunboats. I re-enforced Dodge to-day with 2,000 men, and with instructions that, if he finds the enemy too strong to be dislodged from Tuscumbia, that Streight should proceed in rear of Dodge, by Tupelo, and then across the sountry. I sent cav- alry on Friday to cut the Mobile and Ohio Railroad below Tupelo, and also to push down to the Jackson and Yicksburg Railroad and cut that. I recommend a strong demonstration on the enemys left, to relieve the movement on Tuscumbia. I shall keep you informed of anything further that I learn. S. A. HURLBUT, Major- General. Colonel Streight, in command of General Roseerans expedition, did not come up until four days after the time agreed upon for the move- inent to commence. ~ A, JJURLBUT, Major-General Page 255 255 CRAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. CORINTH, April 20, 1863. General HURLEUT: Arrived here at 12 m. Colonel Fuller has sent his forces to Glendale, and will now follow on train. Some dispatches from Fuller have been lost, but none of any importance, he thinks. The enemy are threaten- ing Dodges right, at Manns Ferry, as reported by scout. Fuller will carry dispatches to Dodge; go within 5 miles of Juka to-night. H. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. CORINTH, April , 1863. Major-General HURLEUT: I have waited until last moment to hear from Dodge. Have received nothing to-day. Scouts report no movement from below, nor from Manns Ferry, toward Dodge or Corinth. I have no cavalry here. Have ordered squadron to-night from Jackson, and Hurst from Bolivar to-morrow. Your last dispatch was sent by Colonel Fuller, now march- ing to Dodges support. Will be there to-morrow. It is probable Dodge will have to meet 15,000 before Tuscumbia. H. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. CORINTH, April 20, 186310.30 p. m. General HURLEUT: I have no doubt Dodge was joined by Streight and Ellet yesterday. I send messenger to Hamburg to-morrow; to Ocono certain. I expect message from Dodge to-night or morning by Seventh Kansas. I have 2,000 troops. I can call in outpost, 1,000 more, for defense of Corinth. Will hold, of course. Gunboats cant reach Tuscumbia before to-morrow, if then. R. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Teun., April 20, 1863. Maj. Gen. RICHARD J. OGLESBY, Jackson, Tenn.: Move up to Corinth as you indicate. Push Fuller forward. Commu- nicate with Colonel Streight, and let him move up to Dodge at once. Order Ellets Marine Brigade as high as they dare go. Dodge will find rations on the boats. I fear that dispatches sent to Dodge have been captured and the plan become known. The gunboats should be able to reach Tuscumbia. S. A. HURLBUT, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., April 20, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: GENERAL: My attention has frequently been called to the enormous expense to the Government of ymr telegrams, as much or perhap Page 256 256 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [C~IAr. XXXV. more thaii that of all the other generals in the field. I have avoided writing to you on the subject, lest you might misconceive my motives, but as the habit with you seems to be increasing, and is really injuring you in the estimation of the Government, I feel it my duty to you as a personal friend to call your attention to the matter. The truth is, you repeat again and again the same thing by telegraph, at a very great expense to the Government, without the slightest necessity. For ex- ample, you have telegraphed at least a dozen, and, perhaps, twen.ty times in the last few mouths that you require more cavalry. The Government is fully aware of your wants, and has been doing all in its power to supply them. It certainly was not necessary to remind it every day and every hour of its duty. Again, you telegraph continually about matters which require no immediate action or reply, and which might be communicated through the mails without any delay or injury to the public service and with great saving to the l)ublic treasury. The Secretary of War directs me to call your attention particularly to one peculiar feature in your telegrams and reports. You are very particular in mentioning all your successes and all captures from the enemy, but you do not inform the Government of your defeats and losses. These we learn only through the reports of the enemy and your requisitions for re-enforcements and supplies. A moments reflection will convince you of the impropriety of this course. In order to act understandingly, the Government should be advised of your losses as well as your gains. This letter is not written in a spirit of fault.flnding, but from a sense of duty to you and to the Government. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]Jliurfreesborough, April 20, 1863. Brig. Gen. JOHN BEATTY, (Jomdg Third Brig., Second Div., Fourteenth Army Corps: The general commanding directs you to put your brigade in readiness, and march to-morrow at 2 oclock, with five days rations and 100 rounds of ammunition. Captain Stokes will report to you and accompany you with his bat- tery; also one regiment from Colonel ilarkers brigade. You will proceed toward Nashville, and take a position near Scrouge- yule, for the purpose of resisting any attempt of the enemys cavalry to cross Stones River or to attack Nashville or La Yergne. You will, on the way, consult with Colonel Este, commanding at La Yergne, in re- gard to the best points to occupy to effect your purpose. It may be policy for you not to retain one position very long, but change from time to time, so as to watch the various avenues of approach, and also deceive the enemy as to your whereabouts and strength. You will neither take your tents nor camp equipage Report by telegraph from La Vergue anything of importance, and report daily, whether there be any news or not. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier-General and Chief of Staff Page 257 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 257 9 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, lliurfreesborough, April 20, 18637.15 p. m. Maj. Gen. THOMAS L. CRITTENDEN Commanding Twenty-first Corps: The general commanding directs you to send one brigade immediately on the Lebanon pike to Stones River. The enemy appears to be dem- onstrating toward La Vergne, and your brigade is designed to attract his attention this way. Colonel Palmers cavalry will report to you, to accompany the brigade. Direct them to build a considerable line of fires in their front, and make an ostentations display of force. The cavalry may feel out cautiously beyond the river in the morning. The whole force will take two days rations. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, April 20, 1863. Major-General MCCooK, Commanding Twentieth Army Corps: The general commanding directs you to send one brigade, with three days rations, out on the Shelbyville pike to-morrow morning; also a brigade, or such part of a brigade as you may deem sufficient, with three days rations, to go out beyond Salem 4 or 5 miles, toward Ver- sailles or down the Middleton road, as you may think best. The de. sign of these movements is to cover an expedition of General Reynolds to McMinnville, by threatening the enemy in front. Direct these forces to advance cautiously, as if desiring to conceal their movements, but to go far enough to create the impression that we are preparing an advance on Shelbyville. Of course, it is not desired to engage the enemy, unless he attacks, but it may be well for you to be in readiness to support these advanced forces should it become necessary. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier. General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMEERLAND, lllurfreesborough, April 20, 1863. Col. W. J. PALMER, Commanding Anderson Cavalry: COLONEL: The general commanding directs you to report with the whole of your available force to Major-General Crittenden immediately, to accompany a brigade from his corps out on the Lebanon pike to the crossing of Stones River. He directs me to say that he wishes you to make as much display of your force as possible, to induce the enemy to believe that we are moving in large force. It is not intended that these troops shall cross the river to-night. You will receive further orders from General Critteuden, to whom you will report in person as soon as you have given the necessary orders to your command. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, C~ GODDARD, Lieutenant- Colonel and Aide-de-Camp. 17 R RVOL XXIII, PT I Page 258 258 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, llliurfreesborough, April 20, 1863. Maj. Gen. GEORGE II. TIIoMAs, Gommanding Fourteenth Corps: The general commanding directs you to send a brigade, with three days rations, to-morrow morning out on the Manchester pike 5 or 6 miles, or far enough to engage the attention of the enemy. He desires it to move cautiously, as if desiring to conceal its advance; the purpose being to cover the movements of General Reynolds by a diversion in their front. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. CLARKSVILLE, April 20, 186311.15 a. m. General JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Woodwards force, 600 strong and two pieces of artillery, left Van Lews furnace Saturday midnight, upon Van ~ order, for Columbia, traveling by way of Centreville, for fear of being cut off. All quiet. S. D. BRUCE, 6~olonel, Commanding. LA VEUGNE, April 20, Th63. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Reports from citizens are that General Wheeler, with all his command, is within 6 miles of Charitons Ford, 5 miles down Stones River from here; also a large force of cavalry between Bairds Mills and Lebanon. They report that the rebels say they will attack La Vergne and clear out the force here. Dont think the rebels can do it. Our patrols have had slight skirmishing across Stones River, 8 miles from here. GEG. P. ESTE, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, April 20, 1863. General W. S. ROSECRANS, ]Jfurfreesborough, flienn.: I will do all I can to assist General Stanley to horses. The Second Ohio is now on the Cumberland above Burkesville, and will be sent to you as soon as I can relieve it. In sending this regiment, and giving you all the horses that are purchased, I necessarily delay my own move- ments, but you can rely upon as early a co-operation as possible. We now hold Tompkinsville, Celina, and the entire line of the Cumberland. Above there is about 4,000 of the enemys cavalry, in and about Monti- cello. The gaps are held by very small forces. The other troops that are in East Tennessee are along the line of the Clinch River, with Gen- eral [D. S.] Donelson in command. He has with him [W. G. M.] Davis, Gracie, and A. E. Jackson. I will either return you the Twelfth Ken- tucky Regiment or send another in its place. I will be glad to send you the Seventy-first Indiana when it is ready to leave Indianapolis, if it ca Page 259 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 259 be spared. My only fear is, that in sending so much of the force from here I will not be able to make a proper diversion in your favor. Our cavalry attacked the enemy at Creelsborough and Celina on Saturday, with good results. No enemy north of the Cumberland now. I hope to break up the force at Monticello in two or three days. The two English officers came to me with a letter of introduction from a friend of mine in Chicago. I do not know how they are accredited to him, but think they are all right. . I gave the pass, perhaps, without proper consideration. I shall concentrate the west column, under Hartsuff, as soon as pos. sible. A. E. BURNSLDE, Major-General, Commanding Departrnent of the Ohio. CINCn~NATJ, Gino, April 20, 18632.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. XV. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Our advance posts are now on the Cumberland, from Celina to Somer- set, with strong pickets as high up as Barboursyille. There is no rebel force in Kentucky now north of the Cumberland except some strolling bands and guerrillas, and very few of them. There is a considerable force at Monticello which we hope to break up to-morrow, unless events should transpire during to-day demonstrating that that movement would embarrass us in a more important contemplated movement. I will in- form you of the result to-morrow. It is very important that the troops that were in this department when I came should be organized into a corps. If they were attached to the Ninth Corps it would be too large, and, besides, in operating in the direction of East Tennessee, it will be necessary to move in two columns at least. General Hartsuff is here, and I would be glad to have him assigned to that corps. Please let me have an answer to.day, if possible. General ~ requirements for animals are so large that I find it very difficult to organize the sup- ply aiid ammunition trains for this department; but I hope to send you a definite statement of my plans very soon. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, April 20, 1863. General WRIGHT, Louisville, Ky.; The following reliable information is received: The whole rebel force in East Tennessee does not exceed 10,000. Nearly all the forces in the gaps have been withdrawn, and the line of defense is now along Clinch River. General Donelson is in command, and has with him Generals Davis, Gracie, and A. E. Jackson. Humphrey Marshall is still in Southeastern Kentucky, in a position to fall back to Cumberland or Pound Gap. His force is variously estimated from 1,500 to 4,000. The forces about Monticello are disposed as follows: Cluke, with 800 men, 4 miles east of Monticello; [J. ~1 Morrison, with 400, near liobertsport; Asliby, with 400, on Meadow Creek, 10 miles from Monticello; [James F.] Carter, with 400, at Ilernon Valley, 6 miles from Monticello; Chenault, in Monticello, with 350, and three battalions or regiments between Monticello and Burkesville, a~nd two other regiment Page 260 260 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. between Monticello and Albany, say, 4,000 men in all. The attack of Colonel Riley was very creditable, and I hope to hear from Colonel Jacob before morning. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, April 20, 186310.35 a. m. General HORATIO G. WRIGHT: Say to Colonel Jacob that if he feels that he can cross at or near Burkesville or Creelsborough, and make a successful attack on the rear of the enemy early to-morrow morning, I will order the force at Somerset, some 1,500 men, to cross at the same time and attack him in front. It would not be right, at this distance and with the limited information I have, to issue a peremptory order for a crossing, which should depend npon the nature of the fords, the strength of the position of the enemy, and the route through which onr forces would have to pass to attack them. I have, there fore, determined to leave the discretion with the commanding officer in front, simply saying that, whilst it is very de- sirable that the force in and about Monticello should be captured or scattered, it would be very nnfortunate, in view of other movements that I am contemplating, to have our forces meet with any serious reverse just at this time. If Colonel Jacob decides to cross to-morrow morning at daylight, he should at once send a messenger to the tele- graph office at Columbia, to forward the dispatch to you, in order that General Willcox may order the force in the neighborhood of Somerset to cross at the same time. Please hnrry this to the front, in order that we may get the message back by night. In case he decides not to cross the river, the main body can return to Columbia, with strong advance posts and pickets in the direction of Jamestown, Creelsborough, and il3urkesville. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, Commanding Department. LEXINGTON, Ks., April 20, 18633.15 p. m. Major-General BURNSI.DE: The following meets with my approval. I would recommend, in addition, that Wrights forces co-operate below: General WILLOOX: From Wolfords dispatches, I find he does not deem it advisable to cross the river with his present force. Will it not be well for me to have Gilbert move the Forty-fourth and One hnndred and fourth from Mount Vernon to Somerset, while I take the Second Tennessee and Twenty-seventh New Jersey to same place, together with Wilder Battery, and drive rebels from Wayne County l When Gilbert moves, I will send the One hundred and third Ohio from this to Mount Vernon. This movement can be made if I can gather rations and forage here in a day or two. If successful, all the troops, except a small force, should return here, owing to difficulties in supplying forage and rations at Somerset. This movement, I think, is entirely practicable; whether advisable, therefore, [before] a general advance is to he made, I leave with you to determine. CARTER. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General Page 261 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 261 HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Bowling Green, Ky., April 20, 1863. Brig. Gen. HoRATIO C-. WRIGHT, Gomdg. District of Western Kentucky, Louisville, Ky.: GENERAL: I have recently had my attention directed to the condi- tion of affairs at and in the vicinity of Franklin, in this State, and have a mass of evidence going to prove that the population is not only gen- erally disloyal, but has been actively so. At the same time their pro- ceedings have been so cautiously conducted that I have been unable to acquire sufficient proof to convict of any overt act. Its vicinity has been the favorite locality for the operations of the small predatory bands so difficult to capture and capable of niischieL In view of these facts, and that from its position it is indicated as an advantageous outpost to this post, and a proper base for scouting parties in all directions, I respectfully suggest that a mounted force of; say, five companies be stationed there, subject to my orders. I am satisfied that at few points in this section of the State could a force be more profitably employed, not only as far as military opera- tions are concerned, but as a check upon contraband trade with the enemy. I would, under my instructions, assume the responsibility of sending a portion of the mounted force at this point could I spare them. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. M. JUDAII, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, ]Jliurfreesborough, April 20, 1863. Maj. C-en. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE Commanding Department of the Ohio, Lexington, Ky.: GENERAL: Having made a study of the routes from Kentucky to Eastern Tennessee, I have thought that I might be able to assist you somewhat, and therefore write you this note. The best route is from Lebanon to Columbia, thence to Creelsborough, on the Cumberland, thence to Albany, thence to Livingston, thence to Crossville, thence to Kingston. This road is generally smooth, except the hills in the vicinity of Wolf and Obies Rivers. The next best road is the same as the former as far as Albany, thence to Jamestown, 26 miles over a very rough road, from Jamestown to Montgomery, and from Montgomery to Kingston. On this road a con- siderable quantity of forage can be procured. The people are generally loyal, and there are more natural obstacles for an enemy to overcome on your right flank than on the route through Livingston. You can also make use of Lebanon, Nicholasville, and Lexington as depots, and transport supplies to the Cumberland at Jame~towu and at Waits- borough, first, by a route from Lebanon, leading up the Rolling Fork, good in summer and fall; by Bradfordsviile to Liberty, at which place you branch off to either Jamestown or Somerset; second, from Lebanon and Nicholasville, by way of Danville, to Somerset, through Huston- ville, Middleburg, or Coffees Mill and Doughtrys Store, or through Stanford, and by still another through Lancaster and Crab Orchard; third, from Lexington to Somerset, through Richmond and Crab Or- chard, average road, or through Richmond, Lancaster, and Stanford, Page 262 262 KY., MID. AND F. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CUAP. XXXV. very excellent road. From Somerset you can get into the road from Albany to Kingston, by Waitsborough, Monticello, and Jamestown. There is also another excellent road from Somerset to Montgomery, going up the east side of the South Fork of tihe Cuizuberland to Hunts- ville, from Huntsville to Montgomery, and from Montgomery to Kings- ton or Knoxville. The great advantage of this route is that your right will be entirely protected by the South Fork as far as Huntsville, and the road from the Cumberland to Huntsville will be good at all seasons. Also on this route you can take the left fork of the road at Chitwoods, about 12 miles north of Huntsville, which will take you to either Clin- ton, over a passable road, or to Grantsborough and on to Knoxville. I suppose you have 4udied carefully the advantages and difficulties of the route from Lexington to Knoxville, by way of London, Barbours- ville, and Cumberland Gap; therefore, it will not be necessary for me to mention it. I will, however, say that the only advantage in the Cuni- berland Gap route consists in its passage through a barren region, which,if the Gap or Cumberland Ford were strongly held by our forces, would be inaccessible to the rebels. There is another route to Knox. ville from London, by way of Williamsburg and Jacksboroug.h, which I should select in preference to the Cumberland Gap route, as it passes over a more practicable country, and is more conveniently situated for obtaining forage. Several persons living in Lexington and Nicholasville are engaged in the transportation business, and would gladly enter into an arrangement to haul supplies. Among them I can recommend Mr. H. B. Crow, of Nicholasville, both as a business man and a man of the strictest integ- rity. Respectfully, & c., GEG. H. THOMAS, Miajor- General if. S. Volunteers, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 46. f Cincinnati, Ohio, April 20, 1863. Capt. H. G. Gibson, Third U. S. Artillery, is announced as chief of artillery for the Army of the Ohio. He will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. MTJRFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 21, 186311 p. m. His Excellency AERAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States: Thrice has notice directly come to me that some complaint has been lodged in the minds of persons high in authority, or in records in the War Office, against the working of my army police, or that there was a conflict of authority between civil and military. Each time I have stated that I know of none, and asked for the specifications, that I might remedy the evil. No reply has been given, no information of what this all means. If there be anything wrong I want to know it Page 263 CHAP. ~ COI~RESIONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 26~3 and appeal to you to please order the complaints to be communicated to me fully. If the fox is unearthed, I will promise to skin him or pay for his hide. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 21, 18632.35 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I have just received the following dispatch from Maj. Gen. D. S. Stanley, my chief of cavalry, who was sent to Louisville to see about horses: LOUISVILLE, Ky., April 21, 1863. In the horse line we stand thns: Barnside says he will do all he can. Horses at Indianapolis go to Hooker. Horses are also going west, to Saint Louis. They come slow here. I think the price too low, $110. Contract expires on the 31st. Should be closed and price raised. Please consult at Washington. D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. Respectfully, W. S. ROSECRANS Major- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMRNT OF THE CIJMBERLAND, - ]Jfurfreesborough, April 21, 1863. Brig. Gen. THOMAS L. CRITTENDEN, Commanding Twenty-first Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs you to keep the infantry and cavalry sent oat to Stones River, on the Lebanon pike, last night where they are for the present. They are designed to observe any move- ment the enemy makes in consequence of General Reynolds expedition to MeMiunville and Liberty. It is possible the rebels may attempt to escape by crossing Stones River and making their way toward the ilar- peth. Colonel Palmers cavalry should keep a sharp lookout toward Bairds Mills. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier-General and Chief of & aff. HEADQUARTERS TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, ]I/Iiurfreesbarough, April 21, 1863. Maj~ Gen. P. II. SHERIDAN, Commanding Third Division: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your com- munication inclosing report of Colonel Bradley. There was no especial news that caused the retrograde movement to-day. The position of the troops on the Shelbyville, Middleton, and Salem roads was reported to-day, at 2 p. in., to the general commanding. and the retrograde move- ments made were at his direction. It is believed that General Rey- nolds entered McMinnville to-day, and, as stated in a previous commu- nication, these movements were intended to be a feint to confuse the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. P. THRUSTON, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff Page 264 264 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. fOnAr. XXXV. CORINTH, April 21, 186312 m. Major-General HURLBUT Received dispatch from Dodge this morning, dated the 20th. The Marine Rrigade and Colonel Streights forces joined them on the night of the 19th. It will take Streight two days to get ready. Only half of his forces are mounted; will have to be mounted in the country. Ellet has no orders to report to Dodge. He is under orders, posted, but will co- operate. Dodge will move Wednesday morning, to strike the enemy at Tuscumbia on Friday. Streight is to move on this night, and go on his work if Dodge will not require his support. Dodge will have to remain there two weeks, to cover Streights operations. Gunboats have not been able to get over the shoals yet. Dodge had a spirited fight on the 19th on his front, but reports no loss. Enemy are very shy of him; has plenty of rations at Eastport; gets forage from the country; will destroy what he does not use. He thinks the enemy will strongly re-enforce. Will know to-morrow if gunboats can go over shoals. B. J. OGLESBY, Major- Gen~eral. HDQRS. DIST. OF CORINTH, DEPT. OF THE TENNESSEE, Corinth, Miss., April 21, 1863. Brig. Gen. GEENVILLE M. DODGE: Your dispatches of the 20th all received this morning. Fuller will join yon to-day. The movements you propose are satisfactory. Of course, you are untrammeled as to your movemeuts in the field. Have Ellet go as far up the river as you wish to use his forces in conjunc- tion with your own. Regret the gunboats cannot aid you in the attack on Tuscumbia. I send you six boxes, caliber .52; also more on pack mules. Can you not arrange to receive messages at Hamburg, and re- lieve my escort therel i have but small cavalry force here; shall have more to-morrow. I have asked for cipher operator to send to you, so that all dispatches falling into the hands of the enemy will be valueless to them. Will send him to-morrow if he comes. Mrs. Dodge sends you packages. I believe I have informed her when escort starts. So far as I can learn to this time, everything is quiet south of you. Colonel Burke has been instructed to scour the country every day on your right as near -to Bear Creek as possible. Have no special news here. General [John G.] Foster, at Washington, ~ - C., has been re-enforced, and is safe. Oif the night of the 16th, seven gunboats, three transports, and some fiats ran the batteries at Yicksburg. No more fighting at Charleston. I send by messenger a dispatch to Lieutenant Fitch- of no importance, however. I shall support you from this place all I can. Will remain here until you return. The cavalry force between Juka and Burnvsille will be driven out by Fuller to-day. Respectfully, yours, 151. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. P. 5.Captain [James M.] Irvin reports it impossible to send ammu- nition on pack mules. I have directed him to send all by ambulance to Hamburg, and trust to getting it from Eastport. I send all men and horses to Major Gilbert to-day, as requested; some 14 to 20 in all Page 265 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 265 GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 87. 4 .Afurfreesborough, Tenn., April 21, 1863. In accordance with the proclamation of the President of the United States, Thursday, the 30th day of the present month, will be observed in this army as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer. The general commanding desires, in thus ordering the observance of this national fast, to impress upon the minds of the officers and soldiers of this army the fact that if we expect the blessing of Almighty God upon our efforts to suppress this rebellion, we must place our trust in Him. Let us acknowledge our entire dependence on Him; let us, by this public and solemn act of humiliation, confess the truth that we have often outraged the rights of conscience, and disregarded the authority of the God of truth and justice. Let us, then, as reason and religion dic- tate, arise from our humiliation with a firm resolution that we will here- after avoid blasphemy, impurity, and every kind of wrong toward God, our neighbors, or ourselves, humbly hoping and trusting that God in his mercy will aid us in keeping our~ good resolutions, and that He will deliver us from the unjust and cruel enemy,who, with lying lips and malicious hearts, seek to destroy us and the nation. If we do this we shall surely conquer peace and liberty for ourselves and our children, both North and South. By command of Major-General Hosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 21, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLEOK, General-in- Chief: The latest information from East Tennessee indicates that the force there does not exceed 10,000, nearly all of which is along Clinch River, the gaps being held by small forces. Humphrey Marshall is still in Southeastern Kentucky, beyond Goose Creek salt-works, ready to fall back to either Cumberland or Pound Gap. His force is variously estimated at from 1,500 to 4,000 ~nearer the for- mer), and, I think, in bad condition. There are about 4,000 cavalry in and about Monticello. The cavalry sent out from Glasgow attacked the enemy near Celina, killed 30, wounded many, captured their camp, and was in fall pursuit when last heard from. The command sent out from Lebanon attacked the enemy near Creelsborough, broke them up, and was also in pursuit when last heard from. Our forces now occupy the line of the Camberland, and a small advance guard crossed at Williamsburg, and drove a rebel regi- ment within 6 miles of the Tennessee line. A. E. BURNSJDE, 4Miajor- General. IIICHMOIND, Kr., April 21, 1863. Col. LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General, Cincinnati, Ohio: SIR: I deem it my duty, as it certainly is my pleasure. to represent to the general commanding the department the strong, ardent, and confiding attachment which everywhere prevails throughout this beau Page 266 2436 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OVAP. XXXV. tiful country for the cause of the Union. The sympathizers with rebel- lion (and, of course, these must be many) are extremely quiet and sub- dued, and your Orders, No. 38, has acted like a charm upon them. I do not think, however, that a politic or even just course has been pur- sued toward the loyal portion of this (Madison) and Clark Counties. I can only speak from observation of these two conuties. In the absence of our force they (the loyal people) have suffered greatly by guerrillas of the enemy, and when our own troops have been here they have been furnished with supplies of corn, hay, & c., for which they received, in numerous cases, mere slips of paper setting forth the fact of the pur- chase, which receive no consideration from the quartermasters to whom they are presented. In other cases regular vouchers have been given; yet, so far as I can learn, not one dollar has been received therefor. This course, I need hardly say, produces a bad impression as regards the good faith of the Government toward loyal and faithful citizens, and is causing niuch forage to be held back (and, no doubt, in many cases concealed), which is now greatly needed for our animals. I would respectfully suggest, therefore, that steps be taken to settle up such claims as early as practicable, and to furnish means to the quarter- masters department, so that cash may be paid for necessary purchases as often as possible. I have heard complaints, too, in various parts of the country where I have been, and from the most respectable and loyal gentlemen, against the post quartermaster at Lexington, Captain [Henry J.] Latshaw. Everywhere I hear of the rough and cavalier treatment received by gentlemen of high standing in society, when business has called them to his office. It is even said (I will not be responsible for the truth of the statement) that he has refused payment on regular vouchers, pleading the absence of money, when the money has been paid to a third party buying these vouchers at a discount of 10 per cent. This officer is not personally known to me; but, whether these things are true or not, I am satisfied that he is deservedly ob- noxious to the community in general, and ought to be cautioned or removed. I have taken the liberty of addressing this note direct to department headquarters, for the reason that its contents are out of the usual rou- tine of business, and of such a character that the suggestions could not well be met by the district commander. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. D. STUIRGIS, Brigadier- General, Gommanding. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE Gino, No. 47. Cincinnati, Ohio, April 21, 1863. I. The traffic carried on in Confederate scrip, by some persons in this department, is recognized as a direct violation of General Orders, No. 38, and all parties detected in engaging in it will be dealt with in ac- cordance with the provisions ot? that order. II. The consolidation of regiments in this department, under General Orders, No. 86, from the War Department, will, by authority from the War Department, be suspended during the discretion of the command- ing general. By command of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICIIMOND, Assistant Adjutant-General Page 267 CHAP. XXXV.] COkkESPONDtNCE, E1~C.---UNION. 2(37 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, April 22, 1863. Maj. Gen. THOMAS L. CRITTENDEN, Comdg. Twenty-first Corps: GENERAL: The general commanding directs you to order the four regiments of infantry and Colonel Palmers regiment of cavalry, now at the crossing to Stones River on the Lebanon pike, to march to-morrow morning at 9 oclock by way of the pike on the farther side of Stones River to Milton, and take up a good position for defense of that place. The object of this movement is to cover the ilank of a brigade of Gen- eral Thomas corps which goes out to-morrow morning with a supply train for General Reynolds at Liberty. This brigade goes out on the Liberty pike, crossing the river near Halls Mills. On arriving at Liberty, Colonel Palmer will detach about one-third of his cavalry force to report to General Granger (commanding the brigade from General Thomas corps), and accompany him to Liberty and back to Milton. Your force will remain at Milton till General Gran- ger returns, when it will move back and occupy its present position. Should it be attacked while at Milton, direct it to send word to General Cruft, .at Cripple Creek, or to General ilazen, at Readyville, for assist- ance. Inform these two officers of this movement, and direct them to open communication with Milton. You will send two regiments of infantry to hold the position at the crossing of Stones River on the Lebanon pike, in the absence of the force now there. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier. General and Chief of Staff. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, lliiiurfreesborough, April 22, 1863. Maj. Gen. JOSEPH J. REYNOLDS, Commanding Fifth Division: The general commanding directs me to inform you that the enemy are reported as having taken a position in the cedars on the right and left of the Lebanon pike, from Bairds Mills toward East Fork of Stones River, and are awaiting an opportunity either to attack the railroad or any body of our troops marching in an unguarded manner through that portion of country. A brigade of General Crittendens corps has been ordered to Milton, to co-operate with youi, and the brigade which escorts the rations can be halted at Milton on its return, for one day, to strengthen the brigade ordered there, if you think it necessary. By command of Major-General Thomas: J. P. WILLARD, Captain and Aide-de- Camp. (Indorsed on envelope): General Granger will direct this to be de- livered on his arrival ~it Liberty. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Lieut. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Triune, April 22, 1863. Chief of Staff, 14th Army Corps, Miurfreesborough, Tenn.: COLONEL: I have the honor to report for the informa~tion of the gen- eral commanding that I have made a careful examination of this pos Page 268 268 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXV. tion and its approaches; also of the defensive works completed and in progress. The position is naturally a good one, and may be made very strong by a few days labor, in addition to that already expended. The chief difficulty arises from the fact that the natural extent of the posi- tion is too great for the number of troops now here. The line must be extended beyond the proper limits of strength for my present force, or else the flanks must be quite imperfectly protected. One additional brigade of troops would, I believe, remove this difficulty, and enable me to make a sure defense against greatly superior numbers, at least long enough for the main army to be brought into action in this position. Considering that the proximity of the enemy is such that he may reach me by a single nights march, and that my position may be easily turned, an attack against my present force might result in the loss of my bag- gage and possibly of my artillery. I express thus freely my views without intending to suggest whether, in view of all the circumstances, my force here should be increased or not. I am proceeding upon the supposition that it will not be in- creased. I have determined to limit the defense to the heights on the north side of Wilsons Creek, and will extend the works on either flank so as to make them as secure as possible. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier- General. EXECUTIVE MANSION, Washington, April 23, 186310.10 a. m. Major-General ROSECRANS, ]Iliurfreesborough, flenn.: Your dispatch of the 21st received. I really cannot say that I have heard any complaint of you. I have heard complaint of a police corps at Nashville, but your name was not mentioned in connection with it, so far as I remember. It may be that by inference you are connected with it, but my attention has never been drawn to it in that light. A. LINCOLN. CARTILAGE, TENN., April 23, 1863. General JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: I have positive information this morning that the enemy have with- drawn with their artillery wagons and the greater part of their force on the Sparta pike, leaving behind only a few hundred as pickets, rear guards, & c. Each man carried with him half a bushel of shelle4 corn, which they said was to cross the monutains with; that they were going into Kentucky, and also that Bragg was going there, and that he has already commenced withdrawing part of his force via Chattanooga. I will send a force so as to be at Liberty to-morrow. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General Page 269 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 269 LA VERGNE, April 23, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: My patrols report all quiet along tiuie river. Citizens report a part of Whartons command, from 300 to 800, in the vicinity of Rural Hill. Wheeler, Morgan, and Wharton they report as near Alexandria. The citizens all seem to believe that the rebels will attack us. I guess not. Is the road from Jefferson np sufficiently guarded ~ There are good fords in that vicinity. GEG. ~. ESTE, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 23, 1863. (Received 6.55 p. in.) Hon. E. M. STANTON: On the 20th instant I sent the following dispatch to General Halleck: It is very important that the troops that were in this department when I came should be organized into a corps. If they were attached to the Ninth Corps it would be too large, and, besides, in operating in the direction of East Tennessee, it will be necessary to move in two columns at least. General Hartsuff is here, and I would be glad to have him assigned to that corps. I requested an immediate answer, but I see by the papers that Gen- eral Halleck has gone to Suffolk. I am very desirous to have the work commenced at once. I hope I may receive the necessary authority to organize another corps at the earliest possible moment. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General, Commanding. WASHINGTON, D. C., April 23, 1863. Major.General BURNSDE, Cincinnati: The Secretary of War has refused three applications to make the troops in Kentucky a distinct army corps, for the reason that they are not combined into a single corps, but act by detachments. Should these troops gain some important victory, he may make them a distinct corps as a reward. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Bowling Green, April 23, 1863. Capt. A. C. SEMPLE, A.A.G., lldqrs. .Dist. of Western Kentucky, Louisville, Ky.: CAPTAIN: A few days sincQ a squad of 7 soldiers, belonging to the Eleventh Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, made application to these headquarters for transportation to Louisville, em route to Camp Chase, representing themselves as paroled prisoners, and exhibiting paroles given by assistant adjutant-general Second Brigade, Morgans division, C. S. Army. The men say they were captured near Liberty, Tenn., on the 8th day of March, 1863, while with a foraging party of about 50 men, under the commissioned officers sent out by General Crook, commanding at Carthage. The whole foraging party was cap- tured by a greatly superior force, as these men state. The officers were retained as prisoners, and the men paroled Page 270 270 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [OIIAP. XXXV. What shall be done in this case I I desire the decision of the general commanding this district as a precedent. I am, captain, very respectfully, yonr obedient servant, II. M. JUDAII, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF WESTERN KENTUCKY, Col. HORACE CAPRON, Louisville, April 23, 1863. Gommanding Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry: COLONEL: Four howitzers, with implements and ammunition, and 367 Bnrnside carbines and accouterments shipped, April 21, via Cave City and Glasgow. Your last requisition for extra wagons cannot be granted, General Burnside~s orders being peremptory. I heartily congratulate you and your command for their conduct on your fighting the very night of your arrival. Went to the Louisville Journal this morning; a true and good account will be published. Will send you a copy. Jam, and have been, very much engaged. For everything you require send me your orders; I will do my best to oblige you. My respects and best compliments to all your officers, and once more many thanks for your and their kindness. I would have been pleased to come and see you. Unfortunately I am duty bound to remain here. I have been in- specting horses here four days in succession. I received a kick at Oak- lands stables; I am lame. I am, and remain, colonel, very truly, your obedient servant, JULIUS FASSES, Captain and Assistant Inspector- General of Cavalry. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 24, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, Generalin- Chief: General Stanley went to Louisville, with 1,000 men, after horses. He telegraphs there are none. That market is furnishing horses for Saint Louis, Department of the Ohio, & c. Will not our necessities compel us to take horses from Western Kentucky I W. S. ROSECEAKS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 24, 1863. lion. E. M. STANTON, (Received April 2512.05 a. in.) Secretary of War: Cavalry horses are indispensable to our success here. We have always been without the control of the country, except for a short dis. tance beyond our infantry lines, and all the horses and forage the country could furnish have thus fallen into the hands of the enemy. They subsist upon the country by having five to our one of mounted force. Out of our nominal cavalry force, we have not more than forty per cent. available, for want of horses. The fruits of victory, whe Page 271 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.U~ION. 271 gained, will be lost, for want of mounted force to pursue. This has been stated and reiterated to the Department, butt horses have not been obtained. No saving in prices paid by the contracting system can compensate for the losses we have thus sustained and are sustaining. Prices should be paid that will give ns good horses, and that rapidly. Authority might wisely be given to our chief quartermaster to pur- chase at reasonable prices wherever he can obtain them. General Stanley is now waiting in Louisville with 1,200 dismounted cavalry to bring down horses. None there. W. S. liOSECRANS, Major. General. MURFREESBOROUGH, April 24, 1863. (Received 2.30 p. in.) General MEIGS: It is impossible to exaggerate the importance of promptly supplying this army with additional horses for mounted men. I have lost the con- trol of the country between my infantry and that of the enemy, and all the forage and stock which they have consumed since I arrived here, for want of an adequate mounted force. The fruits of victory have been wrested from me through the same inexorable necessity. Money will hardly represent this loss. If there are any horses in the country we ought to have them at once. General Stanley was sent to Louis- ville with 1,000 men to bring horses down. He informs me that horses are being sent from Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Louisville to the west, and even to General Hooker. Prices are so low that they are sending horses to Saint Louis. Money is thrown away buying the kind of horses we have bought. Prices should be realized for better stock. Cheap horses for service absolutely necessary is the worst possible plan, and this is tenfold worse when service is military. The cost of feeding poor horses and bringing them here is as great as that for good ones. The difference between them is greater than can be represented. What has been said of purchasing horses is still more applicable to purchase of mules. Those sent here were too cheap; pecuniary loss on them before they get into service has been more than would buy good mules. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. WASHINGTON, April 24, 1863~8.20 p. m. Major-General iROSECRANS: Your dispatch received. If you can send to Louisville some trusty officer of cavalry, to aid in the inspection of horses and mules for your army, who will not be accessible to temptation, the quartermasters department at Louisville will be glad of his aid. The quartermasters of experience are too heavily burdened to personally inspect all the stock. Its quality should be brought at once by rigid inspection to the printed specifications, which are sufficient, if enforced, to secure good horses. Hired inspectors too often yield to the temptation offered by contractors. Have ordered Colonel Swords to take post at Louisville, because I heard such serious complaints of the quality of horses and mules accepted. Captain [Charles N.] Gouldings mules are particularly ill reported. Have written to you about the charges against him, and have also directed Colonel Swords to investigate the matter. Capt. W Page 272 272 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. B. Royall, Fifth U. S. Cavalry, was on duty at Louisville for a time by General Burnsides order~ and I believe introduced some reforms. I have procured orders assigning him to this duty, from which he had been withdrawn. The law requires contracts and public competition. They must be let to the lowest responsible bidder. The care is only in the personal snpervision of the inspection by a trusty officer. I have none to spare for that purpose, and have always asked assistance from cavalry and artillery officers, and seldom gained it. There must be some officers, good judges of horses, honest men, with professional pride enough to do this duty well, and yet suffering from wounds or disability, who would gladly undertake the duty; and if no disabled officers can be foand, there is no duty which you could assign such an officer in which he could render greater aid to the efficiency of your operations. If the inspection is rigid, the dishonest contractors will break; if the inspec- tion is careless or dishonest, no price will improve the stock. The quartermaster at Louisville has had orders to supply you; and if the price is too iow, it is due to the fact that contractors have offered at such prices and it was impossible to award contracts at higher prices. Inspection by faithful cavalry officers is the only remedy I can find, unless General Burnside will, under martial law, hang one or two bogus and bribing contractors. That would improve the stock, I think. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. IIDQRS. THIRD ThVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY Cones, Triune, April 24, 1863. Lient. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of Staff, 14th Army Corps, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: COLONEL: I have the honor to report, for the information of the major- general commanding, the results of a reconnoitering and foraging ex- pedition, from which I returned this evening. 1 went forward this morning with a brigade of infantry, one battery, and some cavalry as far as College Grove, and thence with the main force westward and southwestward about 3 miles. A regiment of in- fantry was left at College Grove, and a force of cavalry sent down the pike as far as Jordans, from which place it drove the enemy~s pickets and scouted the surrounding country, remaining in that vicinity until about 3 p. m. A small body of cavalry was also sent from the main force toward Bethesda. No enemy was met in this direction. About 500 rebel cavalry had passed through the day before, taking off all the horses they could find. A Union man was found near Bethesda, who had just returned from Spring Hill. He stated that all the sick and convalescents had been sent from that place to the rear, and that Van Born and Wheeler were certainly preparing for some important move. lt was reported in camp that they had been ordered to some place in Alabama, but it seemed to be believed by the soldiers and by my in- former that they were about to advance. The soldiers were sure of a big fight~~ very soon. In the afternoon I went as far down on the Chapel Hill pike as the position held by my cavalry, and returned to camp with the command at sunset this evening. We obtained 130 wagon-loads of good forage. I am, colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier. General Page 273 CnAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 273 GENERAL ORDERS, HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 90. Mu~freesborough, Tenn., April 24, 1863. The general commanding, finding that the War Department objects to the organization of the light battalions from the rolls of honor, as contemplated by Paragraph II, General Orders, No. 19, current series, from these headquarters, directs: That those whose names appear on the rolls of honor remain on duty with their respective commands, and that they be distinguished, when on military duty, by wearing a red ribbon, tied in the button-hole or attached to the coat over the left breast. The issue of first-class arms, provided for in General Orders, No. 19, will be made as soon as practicable. By command of Major-General IRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. CORINTH, April 24, 1863. Major-General HURLEUT: Up to this hour nothing from Dodge to-day. I sent out dispatches with escort to Hamburg at 2 to-day. I expect something to-night. Three privates of Second Iowa Cavalry came into Camp Davis to-day (cut off from regiment), and report your cavalry at Okolona. On Wed- nesday last, burned barracks of enemy at that place; also report seeing large fires at Tupelo, and suppose enemy were burning their supplies there to avoid your cavalry at Okolona; also report that But-tons [BarteausI, Harris [Hams], and Smiths forces had got in i-ear of your cavalry, and were harassing them. As soon as the men come in, 1 wilL send you anything additional they may say. iR. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, April 24, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Commanding Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati: Your dispatch in relation to the organization of a new corps has been received, and directions given to issue the order immediately according to your request. EDWIN M. STANTON, & cretary of War. LoUISVILLE, April 24, 186311.30 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE: The following dispatch was received from General ilobson at 1 oclock this morning: Dispatch from Colonel Graham says that rehels burtied the court-house at Tomp- kinsville on Wednesday evening [April 22], killing several Union men, and lights seen in different directions, and is supposed they are burning those of Union men. It is of the utmost importance that an expedition of about 2,000 men, with section of battery, be sent to that point at once. It is reported that the enemy are in some Corce at Celina. E. H. IJOBSON, Brigadier- General. 18 R RVOL XXIII, PT I Page 274 274 KY., MID AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. I have ordered Colonel Graham. with his regiment and the Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry and one section of artillery, to move at once to Totup. kinsville, and attack and destroy the enemy, if possible. I have also directed General Manson to send Colonel Jacob, with the Ninth and Twelfth Kentucky Cavalry, to co-operate with Graham, leaving the Eleventh Cavalry at Columbia. Nothing new from the other posts. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. LOUISVILLE, Ky., April 24, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: The following telegram just received from Lebanon: Colonel Jacob telegraphs, as reliable information, seven parts [I] of regiments still in Wayne County; one at Monticello; three at Bakers Mills, on Beaver Creek; one at Cooks, near the mouth of Beaver Creek, threatening. He expects larger force to attack stores and wagons at Columbia. He has started his train back to Lebanon. I hear nothing from scouts sent toward Jamestown. MARLON D. MANSON, Brigadier-General. I have directed General Manson to send two regiments of infantry at once to re.enforce Jacob, with orders to attack the enemy, if he is not too strong and is on this side of the Cumberland. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 25, 18633.20 p. m. Major-General ROSECRANS, ]Ifurfreesborough, Tenn.: You will immediately report the number of animals (horses and mules) in your army when you assumed command, and the number you have received since from every source. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, April 25, 1863. Capt. W. Quartermaster Louisville: JENKINS, Assistant General Rosecrans complains that horses are provided at Louisville for Saint Louis, while his requisitions are not filled. Is this so? His wants are urgent, and you have hat orders to supply them. Spare no exertions to do so, and send no horses to any other army until he is supplied. N. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. LOUISVILLE, April 25, 1863. (Received April 262.35 a. in.) General N. C. MEIGS: No horses have been sent from here to Saint Louis. General Rose- crans is supplied as fast as practicable. I will report the number furnished, as soon ss I can ascertain. T. SWORI)S, ~4ssistant Qnarterrn ~tgr- General Page 275 CRAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 275 QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, April 25, 1863. Col. THOMAS SwoRDs, Chief Quartermaster, Louisville, Ky.: Report the total number of horses and mules, separately, supplied to the army under General iRosecrans since he took command, whether from Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Louisville, or elsewhere. Report by tele- graph this morning. He complains that his requisitions are not com- plied with. N. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, D. C., April 25, 1863. Lent. Col. J. W. TAYLOR, Chief Quartermaster, Army of the Cumberland, Murfreesborough: Report, by telegraph, this day, total number of horses issued to the army under command of General Rosecrans since he assumed com- mand, stating, as nearly as practicabk~, the number received from the depots of the Department of the Ohio, and the number captured, im- pressed, seized, or purchased in the Department of the Cumberland. To-morrow send same information as to mules. Report also total number of horses for cavalry, mounted infantry, and transportation (each separately), and of mules now in the service of the Army of the Cumberland and at its depots. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. MCCoOKs HEADQUARTERS, April 25, 1863. (Received April 2611.40 p. in.) Maj Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Commanding: All quiet in my front. Sheridan has two brigades ready to move in case Crittenden is disturbed at Salem, one brigade to go direct to him, and one to niove down the Middleton dirt road. The 12,000 men that attacked Crittenden when last out, at Salem, were 9 mules and 4 negroes. None of my guards have been killed. I have heard nothing of it. A. MCD. MCCOOK. GENERAL ORDERS; HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 91. Miurfreesborough, Tenn., April 25, 1863. It having been found that the flags prescribed by General Orders, No. 41, from these headquarters, December 19, 1862, to designate the head- quarters of the various brigades, divisions, and corps of this army, are not sufficiently marked to be readily distinguished from each other, those herein described will be substituted. General headquarters.The national flag, 6 feet by 5, with a golden eagle below the stars, 2 feet from tip to tip. Fourteenth Army Corps.A bright blue flag, 6 feet by 4, fringed, with black eagle in center, 2 feet from tip to tip, with the number 14 in black on shield, which shall be white Page 276 276 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Twentieth Army Gorps.A bright red flag, same as that for Four- teenth Army Corps, except the number on the shield, which shall be that of the corps. Twenty-ftrst Army Gorjps.A bright red, white, and blue flag (horizon- tal), same as that for Fourteenth Corps, except the number on the shield, which shall ~e that of the corps. First Division, Fourteenth Army Gorps.The flag of the corps, except the eagle and fringe, with one black star, 18 inches in diameter, point 2 inches from staff. & cond Division, Fourteenth Army Corjps.The flag of the corps, ex- cept eagle and fringe, with two black stars, each 18 inches in diameter, inner point 2 inches from staff. Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps.The flag of the corps, except eagle and fringe, with three black stars, each 18 inches in diameter, set equally along staff, the inner point being 2 inches from staff. Fourth Division, Fourteenth Army Corps.The flag of the corps, ex- cept eagle and fringe, with four black stars, each 18 inches in diameter, three of them along staff as before, the other set equally on the flag. Fifth Division, Fourteenth Army Co~ps.The flag of the corps, except eagle and fringe, with five black stars, each 18 inches in diameter, three of them along the staff, the other two equally distributed on flag. The division flags of the Twentieth and Twenty-first Army Go~ps will correspond with the above, that is, the corps flags (without eagle and fringe), with one, two, three, & c., stars, according as they represent the first, second, third, & c., divisions. The headquarters flags of all brigades will be the flags of their divis- ions, with the number of the brigade in white, 8 inches long, in center of each star. The Regular brigade will have the corps and division flag, but the stars shall be golden instead of black. Artillery reserve.Two bright red flags, each 4 feet by 2, one above the other. Batteries.Each battery shall have a small flag, corps colors and arrangement (but 1 foot 6 inches on staff, by 2 feet fly), with the letters and numbers of the battery inscribed thereon in black, 4 inches long, thu8, B, First Ohio. Cavalry headquarters.A bright red, white, and blue flag, 6 feet by colors running vertically, red outermost. First Cavalry Division.A bright red, white, and blue flag, 6 feet by 4, like last, with one star, 18 inches in diameter, black, the point 2 inches from s~taff. Second Cavalry Division.Same as last, except two black stars, each 118 inches in diameter. As for infantry, the headquarters flags of brigades will be the flags of divisions, with the number of the brigade in black, 8 inches long. Engineer Corps.A white and blue flag, blue uppermost, and running horizontally, 6 feet by 4. Hospitals and ambulance depots.A light yellow flag, 3 feet by 3, for hospitals and the principal ambulance depot on the field of battle, 2 feet square for the lesser ones. Subsistence depots and storehouses.A plain light green flag, 3 feet square. Quartermasters depots or storehouses.Same flag, with letters Q. M. ID. in white, 1 foot long. Ordnance department, general headquarters.A bright green flag, 3 feet square, with two crossed cannon in white, set diagonally in a squar Page 277 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 277 of 3 feet, with a circular ribbon of 6 inches wide and 3 feet greatest diameter (or diameter of inner circle 2 feet), with ihe letters U. S. Ordnance Department, in black, 4 inches long, on ribbon, and a streamer above flag, 1 foot on staff~ by 4 feet long, crimson color, with words Chief of ~ black, 6 inches long. Division ordnance.Same flag, with cannon and ribbon, but no streamer. All these flags will be made according to a pattern to be furnishQd from the quartermasters department. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. CINCINNATI, April 25, 1863. General WILLCox, Lexington: Fourteen hundred cavalry from Glasgow are moving upon Tomp~ kinsville, which I will, if possible, move to Burkesville, and I will also move 1,200 or 1,500 cavalry, with some artillery, to either Burkesvillc or Jamestown, with instructions to cross Monday morning. If this force has not already moved too far, I will have it cross at Jamestown. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, April 25, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville: Tell Graham to look out for a move by Morgan in the direction of Glasgow, and to threaten Burkesville and Celina from Tompkiusville. Inform both Jacob and Graham that Carter will cross the Cumberland at Waitsborough or Mill Springs early Monday morning, with infantry, supl)orted at the crossings. If they can make diversions in his favor it will be well. If Jacob can cross at Creelsborongh or Jamestown, and move carefully in the direction of Albany, it will help Carter very much. Where is Jacob now ~ Send Colonel Morrisons brigade, now ~tt Lebanon, to the crossing of Green River, between Campbellsville and Columbia, with a strong infantry and artillery guard at Columbia. We must occnpy the enemy, and keep them from flanking Rosecrans. Tell garrisons on the railroad to keep sharp lookout. Please answer at once. A. E. BURNS1DE, Major. General. IIDQRS. SECOND DIVISION, NINTH ARMY CORPS, Winchester, Ky., April 25, 1863. Col. N. BOWEN, Asst. Adjt. Gen., Central District of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky.: SIR: Information having reached me that the inhabitants around Mount Sterling are being thrown into a state of coiisternation and alarm (both loyal and disloyal) on account of an indiscriminate seizure of horses by our troops and a party of citizens, and knowing that I had authorized no such (or any) I)rocedure, I directed the commanding officer to inform me by what authority he was acting. To my great surprise (and I may say regret), he inclosed me a copy of an order grant Page 278 278 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. ing authority to seize horses, under certain restrictions, written (by order) by Captain [William W.] Van Ness, assistant quartermaster, of your staff. I need hardly say that I was surprised and chagrined. Since I am responsible for the efficiency and good conditioii of the troops under my command, it would appear reasonable that orders of so grave a character should pass through my hands, if issued at all from other headquarters than mine. I had inaugnrated a system of seizure of horses (when necessary), and of their appraisement, which has thus far worked well, without tending in any degree to the demoralizing of the troops making the seizures. This system could easily have been extended to Mount Sterling, if necessary, and the control of that matter, I submit, should be under my entire direction. When in Lexington, on the 23d instant, I submitted to the general commanding my reasons why I thought it injudicious to authorize the seizure of horses at Mount Sterling, and he concurred in my views, and I left him with the impression that no such authority would be granted, yet this order (referred to above) bears date of the 18th instant, five days before our interview. Every moment of my time is devoted to rendering my command efficient for the field, and to bring them up to such a high point of dis- cipline that they can be used with credit to themselves and to the country when called upon to act; but I would respectfully submit that I will be wholly unable to attain this desirable result if my authority is to be weakened by their communicating direct to your headquarters, and their communications entertained and answered without any refer- ence whatever to me, their immediate commander. I will not, of course, undertake to dictate the course to be pursued at district headquarters, but I may be permitted to say that the custom and courtesy of the service, as well as the printed regulations of the army, all require that all intercourse between my command and higher authority than myself should pass through my headquarters. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. P. STURGIS, Brigadier General, Gommanding. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 26, 18634 p. m. Brig. Gen. LORENZO THOMAS, Adjutant-General: Inform the General-in-Chief I have it from a letter of Colonel Hill, commanding brigade in rebel army, that Joe Johnston has got 18,000 re-enforcements, of which 5,000 had already arrived on the 19th instant, and that he would have 30,000 in all by the 7th proximo. He says it is the intention of the rebels to advance on us, if we do not advance on them. If we retire into fortifications, they will cross into Kentucky, will seize Columbus, and so on. They intend to get here before Gen- eral Grant can arrive. Our expedition to cut the Georgia Railroad promises to succeed. Dodge took Tuscumbia on the 24th, and was to take Florence on the 26th. Bragg has occupied the line of Duck River. flis re-enforcements hold Tullahoma. My expedition to McMinnville succeeded. Report by mail, under late instructions, to save expense. XV. S. ROSECRAKS Page 279 CUAP. XXXV.) CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.TJNION. 279 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTME]NT OF THE CUMBERLAND, ]Jfurfreesborough, Tenn., April 26, 1863. Maj. Geii. II. W. HALLEOX, Commander-in-Chief, Washington: GENERAL: Your letter of the 20th instant is received. if I have used the telegraph freely, it has been through an anxious desire to do my duty, and to insure that by no fault of mine should things go unattended to, which my experience has shown may be the case even with the most able and zealous officers, without reminders. That I am very careful to inform the Department of my successes and of all captures from the enemy is not true, as the records of our office will show. That I have failed to inform the Government of my defeats and losses is equally untrue, both in letter and spirit. I regard the statement of these two propositions by the War Department as a pro. found, grievous, cruel, and ungenerous official and personal wrong. If there is any one thing I despise and scorn it is an officers blowing his own trumpet, or getting others to do it for him. I had flattered myself that no general officer in the service had a cleaner record on this point than 1 have. I shall here drop the subject, leaving to time and Provi. deuce the vindication of my conduct, and expect justice, kindness, and consideration only from those who are willing to accord them. Accept for yourself~ personally, my cordial thanks for your kindness, both personal and official. Very respectfully, your obedient servant W. S. ROSECiRAKS Major- General, Gmmanding. CINCINNATI, April 26, 1863. Hon. E. M. STANTON: In commencing the work in this department, I have designated new chiefs of the quartermasters and medical departments, without refer- ence to their rank. Both General Meigs and Surgeon-General Hammond take exception to this action. I sincerely hope that I will be allowed to keep men of my choice as chiefs of departments. It is a well-estab- lished principle that they need not necessarily be ranking officers in the department. They simply convey the orders of the commanding general. I have suffered, in one famous instance, from not making such change of officers as I thought ought to be made. The work here is difficult, and I should have men about me that I am thoroughly acquainted with. A. E. BUIRNSIDE. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 26, 186311.45 p. m. Brig. Gen. 0. B. WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky.: The following dispatch from General Boyle is sent to you for the information of General Carter. It should be sent to him at once: General BURNSIDE: General Hobson telegraphs from Munfordville that Colonel Graham was at Tomp- kinsville last night. His scouts were near Burkesville. Scouts report Pegram, with his force, between Burkesyille and Albany. Scouting party were near Gainesborongli; captnred 16 of Morgans and Hamiltons men. Hamiltons and Johnsons forces are in the vicinity of Celina. Wheeler and Morgan are reported near Gainesborough, wit Page 280 280 KY., MW. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. 6,000 men and batteries. This information is regarded as reliable. Colonel Graham will move his main force to Celina; will keep sufficient number at that point to pre- vent rebels crossing river. Reconnoitering parties will be kept on roads leading to Bennetts Ferry and Gainesborough. I have instiucted him to blockade all the passe8, if rebels advance in large force, and, if he is compelled to fall back on Glasgow, to give me information, by courier, of. his own and rebels movements. I have ordered General Manson to cross the river, if safe and practicable. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. It appears by this that Grahams force at Tompkinsville and Celina will have all it can do to watch Pegram and Morgan, and that Mansons force, commanded by Jacob, will cross at or near Creelsborough, if he can. I am inclined to think that Pegram will fall back on Morgan, at Gainesborough, when Carter pursues. He (Carter) must move carefully, and be ready to join Jacobs force in pursuit of Morgan, in case Mor- gan should succeed in forcing a passage at Gainesborough, moving to. ward Glasgow. I shall probably receive other dispatches from Boyle before morning, which will be forwarded to you. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, April 26, 1863. General WILLcox, Lexington, Ky.: Tell Carter that I find great difficulty in getting definite information from the forces moving on Creelsborough and Burkesville, and I cannot; learn positively that they have received my orders.. Ho can take the Forty-fifth~ Ohio across with him, and I think he will have sufficient force to fight the enemy, even if the rest should not cross with him. I will give you the earliest information of their movements. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major. General. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: CINCINNATI, April 26, 1863. Please hurry up the telegraph report from Columbia as to the where- abouts of Jacob. I am anxious to let Carter know if he can cross at Jamestown or Creelsborough. Give also as early report as possible of the position of Graham. Carter will cross at daylight to~morrow morn- ing. I understand that quite a number of contrabands are to be sold at La Grange in a day or two. Please take quiet measures to stop it until my order obtains publicity; it will be published in to-morrow mornings papers. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF EASTERN KENTUCKY, Gatlettsburg, Ky., April 26, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Gommanding Department of the Ohio: GENERAL: I am about to advance some 30 miles up the Big Safidy IRiver, probably to Paintville. I have the honor to request that one regiment of infantry, the Sixty-fifth Illinois, if possible, and one battery be sent to report to me at Louisa at once. There is now a boating stag Page 281 CHAr. ~tXXVJ COtONDIThct, ETCtYNIoN. ~2g1 of water in the Sandy, and my movements must be made at such time as will enable me to avail myself ~f water transportation. Without at least another regiment, my rear will be without proper protection. Please direct the troops you send to proceed by water to Louisa, and to come with shelter tents. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 49. f Cincinnati, Ohio, April 26, 1863. Brigadier-General II. G. Wright, lately commanding this department, being abont to take his departure for the East, the commanding general wishes to publicly express to him his thanks for his cordial co-operation in the movements of this command, and for the assistance he has received from his clear and thorough knowledge of the various interests of the departineut. By command of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 27, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief: I report in reply to your telegraphic order: This army had, December 1,1862, 8,709 horses and 11,519 mules, received from the Department of the Ohio. Procured by capture or purchase since 18,450 horses and 14,607 mules.. Sent off, unserviceable, 9,119 horses and 1,149 mules. On hand, March 23, 19,164 horses and 23,859 mules. A great mortality in team animals has resulted from the want of long forage, not pro- curable, for waut of means of transportation. The cavalry horses, always overworked, consume rapidly. It is reported by the chief quar- termaster that one-third of the animals now on hand are used up and unserviceable. Yours, truly, W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 27 1863 Major General ROSECRANS, 4.30 ~. m. Murfreesborough, Tenn.: You already have full authority to seize horses in the enemy~s coun- try. ~Fo seize 4iorses in the loyal States is a very different affair. There is no power here to authorize such a proceeding. The law regulates the purchase of horses, and every possible authority has been given to the ~quartermasters of your army and of the Western depots to purchase animals for you. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief Page 282 282 KY., MID. AND IX TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAr. XXXV. LoUIsvILLE, April 27, 1863. General MEIGs: Seven thousand three hundred and fifty-seven horses and 11,692 mules have been sent to the quartermaster at Nashville, and 6,706 horses and 150 mnles furnished to troops of General iRosecrans army since November. T. SWORDS, Assistant Quartermaster- General. [MUEFREESBOROUGH], April 27, 1863. Brig. Gen. M. C. MEIGS,. Quartermaster- General, Washington: This army has been so scattered that it has been impossible until recently to procure accnrate reports. I reply to your telegram of 25th as fully as possible: Received from Department of Ohio, since November 1 [1862], 8,212 horses, 11,197 mules; 9,119 unserviceable horses and 1.159 mules have been returned to Louisville to be recruited. Issued to Army of Cum- berland since November 1, 10,305 horses and 7,492 mules. Reports for March 31 show in the army and at depots 3,939 artillery horses, 11,478 cavalry horses, including those used by mounted infantry; 2,942 draught-horses and 805 extra, and 23,859 mules. At least oue-fourtb. of the horses now in nse are worn out and unfit for service. Mules have been substituted for a large part of the draught horses reported above. J. W. TAYLOR, Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS RIGHT WING, Town Creel:, Ala., ApriJ 27, 1863. Colonel MORTON, Commanding Second Brigade: In pursuance of Special Field Orders, No. 17, the order of march to- morrow will be as follows: First, Fullers brigade, and train; second, Second Brigade; third, Third Brigade, and, fourth, General Sweenys command. The troops will be in readiness to march at 5 a. in., but will await the order for so doing. All teams now with their respective brigades, except ambulances, will move in front of brigades. Ambulances in the rear of brigades to which they belong. Brigade commanders are hereby notified, in obedience to instructions from the general commanding, that at daylight to-morrow morning a movement will be made on the enemy in front, if he is found to be in force; the passage of the creek will be made in force, otherwise the movement will result in throwing a strong cavalry force over to destroy corn~cribs, bridges, & c., as far as possible, after which the troop~ will take up the line of march in return. All inquiries of the inhabitants will be answered with the idea that the column is falling back on Tus. cumbia for re-enforcements, and great pains taken to impress them with that idea, the object being to mislead them as to our intentions. Keel) them employed with watching this column, in order to give time tc Colonel Streights command to reach the mountains. Brigade co Page 283 Cair. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 283 manders will instruct the regimental commanders to use their utmost efforts to prevent any stragglers from dropping to the rear of their regi- ments. By order of Brig. Gen. T. W. Sweeny: 11. K. RANDOLPH, Lieutenant and Acting Aide-de-Camp. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ W~n DEPT., ADJT. GEN.S OFFICE, No. 103. Washington, April 27, 1863. The President directs that the troops in Kentucky,* not belonging to the Ninth Army Corps, be organized into the Twenty-third Army Corps, to be commanded by Maj. Gen. G. L. flartsuff. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, April 27, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, LVommanding Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati: In reply io your telegram of the 26th, I would repeat the assurances frequently made that the Department has every disposition to gratify you in any particular that you may deem important to the success of your operations. I will see the Quartermaster-General and Surgeon- General, and direct them to waive any objections they may have to your selections. The objection, I apprehend, is more to the form of your pro- ceeding than to any actual change. It is not admissible by the rules and regulations of the service for department commanders to make such assignments as you propose to make, and they are only to be made by the chiefs of the respective bureaus; but if you were to designate to the chiefs of bureaus those whom you desired to fill the posts of chiefs of your staff it is not likely that any objection would be made, and I would suggest to you the propriety of your conforming to the rules of the service in that particular. In respect to Captain [John II.] Dickerson, com- plaints have been made to this Department of such a nature that I have deemed it necessary to relieve him from duty, in order that the opera- tions at Cincinnati may undergo a thorough investigation. This, I think, had better be done before he is assigned to duty with you. It is of im- portance that no one should occupy that responsible position in your army against whom there is any reasonable ground of complaint, so that if you can make a different selection, even temporarily, it would be ex- pedient to do so. EDWIN M. STANTON, & cretary of War. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, April 27, 1863. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Your dispatch received. I see that my course in assigning staff offi- cers without consulting the heads of the departments was improper, and feel sure that my recommendations would have been respected. * See Halleck .o Buruside, Juue 8, 1863, p. 400 Page 284 284 1V., Mm. AND K TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ECHAr. XXXV. In speaking to General Meigs and Surgeon-General Hammond on the subject, please mention this dispatch with the other. In relation to Captain Dickerson, I will say that I am quite confident that the charges against him are of a partisan character, and that he is an honest, capa- ble, and loyal officer, but suffers from the misfortune of having a rebel wife; but he cannot suffer from an investigation, and your order will be cheerfully obeyed. I would like to keep him as chief quartermaster, even during the investigation, but shall not unless you so direct. He has already been assigned as such. A. E. BURYSIDE, Major. General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, April 27, 186310.30 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: Orders have been given to constitute the troops under llartsnff into an army corps. I fear the enemy are concentrating on Rosecrans. You must give him all the assistance in your power. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. CINCINNATI, April 27, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington, Kg.: Your dispatch, dated 3.25 p. in., relating to Carter, has been received. Tell him he must use his discretion in crossing. The following was received from General Boyle: Colonel Jacob left Columbia at 6 a. in., for mouth of Greasy Creek, and will cross at that place, if river is not too high and enemy too strong. Manson says lie has the utmost confidence that the move will be successful. Mansons brigade left Lebanon at 5 a. m. this morning for Green River. He will send one regiment to Columbia. Reports from other parts represent all quiet. Nothing new from Glasgow. BOYLE. Colonel Carter should communicate with Colonel Jacob as early as possible. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. WASHINGTON, D. C., April 28, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough Tenn.: GENERAL: I regret very much to notice the complaining tone of your telegrams in regard to your supply of horses. You seem to think the Government does not do its duty toward your army. You have been repeatedly informed that every possible authority has been given to the quartermaster of your army, and to all quartermasters in the West, to purchase all the animals they possibly can for you. If any of them have neglected to do their duty in this respect promptly and thoroughly, why do not you report them for dismissal or other punishment ~ As you have reported none, it is presumed that they have all done their duty. Indeed, it appears from reports that you have been furnished since you took command of that army thirty-odd thousand additional horses, and this has been done to the neglect of other points but little, if any, less important than your own position. For example, horse Page 285 CIIAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 285 intended to mount troops in West Virginia have been sent to you, notwithstanding the earnest protestations of the authorities there. But you ask for authority to go into loyal States and seize horses which the owners will not sell, or to purchase them at any price and in any man- ner. I do not precisely understand why you so often urge me to give you authority to violate the law. If you wish to violate the law, you certainly should not throw upon me the responsibility of your illegal acts. That certainly would be very unfair, to. say the least. I have never found it necessary to do anything contrary to what I deemed the law authorized me to do. If I shall ever find it necessary to do what I consider an illegal act, I shall expect to assume the responsibility myself. But you will say that you want the especial authority of the Government. The Government gives you, and has given you, all the authority in its power. It cannot violate a law of Congress in regard to purchases, nor can it authorize any officer to violate such a law. The authorities here have done all in their power to supply your wants, and I venture to say that for no other army has greater care and solici- tation been felt or given. Indeed, I think the returns will show that you now have a larger number of animals in l)roI)ortiou to your forces than any other general in the field. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, II. W. HALLECK, General-ftt Chief. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, April 28, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS, Comdg. Army of the Cumberland, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: Lient. Col. J. W. Taylor, assistant quartermaster, has called on Colo- nel [Osborn] Cross, quartermaster, Pittsburgh, to send 400,000 bushels of coal to Nashville, over 10,000 tons. The river will soon fall. Can so much coal be needed l It is difficult to keep the Mississippi fleet sup- plied, and so many coal-boats and tow-boats have been taken by the Government that there is a coal famine throughout the West. Advise me what is absolutely needed. No more than this should be ordered. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, April 28, 18634.35 p. m. (Received April 2910.45 p. in.) M. C. MEIGS: Our consumption of coal for boats, hospitals, and shops will be near 500 bushels per day, and we must expect none by river after the water falls before next January. We want to insure a needful supply. The Government cau judge from this. W. S. ROSECItAINS. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, April . 28, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE Commanding Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati: You can retain Captain Dickerson as your chief quartermaster if you desire to do so. Colonel [Thomas E.] Bramlette has been appointe Page 286 286 KY., Mu AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. brigadier-general, and ordered to report to you. Definite orders in regard to the raising of troops will be transmitted to you shortly. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. HEADQUARTERS, Louisville, April 28, 18632.15 p. m. Col. LEWIs RICHMOND: The following just received: General BOYLE: The rebels moved from Wayne to Clinton last week. They are stationed as follows: Chenault at Cooks, near mouth of Beaver Creek; Morrisons Georgia regiment on the Ellis farm, on the road from Monticello to Bnrkesville, 6 miles northwest of Albany; a regiment at Ciltons, near 76, as picket; regiment at Howards Mills, 4 miles from Albany, on the road to Burkesville; Johnsons regiment on Henry Johnsons farm, oit Wolf River. They are devouring everything. Can be cut off without difficulty. Not over 2,500 in all, and so disposed as not to he able to co-operate, if attacked promptly. THO. E. BRAMLETTE. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier. General, Commanding. CINCINNATI, April 28, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: The following dispatch has just been received from Carter: HALLS FERRY. General WILLOOx: The river is too high to cross either infantry or artillery. Cavalry can cross by swimming their horses. For some distance no rebels can be seen on south side of the river. I have sent Captain [Francis N.] Alexander with 60 picked men and horses across jnst now, to scout the river betweeu Waitsborongh and Mill Springs, to capture any pickets that should be ou south side, and to look after boats, so as to enable me to cross infantry and artillery, provided the enemy has not left Monticello and vicinity. The prospects are we shall have more rain and the river keep up. Do you desire the force to go back to Stanford, as originally designed, or have you other plans? No forage along this side of the river for some distance. Have dispatched courier to Colonel Jacob, who, I believe, cannot cross the river. CARTER, General. I have ordered General Wilicox to have Carter communicate at once with Colonel Jacob, and to co-operate with him. You can send word to Jacob to move carefully, and not attempt to cross his whole com- mand till he is satisfied that Carter will co-operate with him. You are quite right in ordering down infantry and artillery to protect him in case he ha~ to recross under fire. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, April 28, 1863. General WILLCOX, Lexington: The following dispatch has just been received from General Boyle: APRIL 28. General BUENsIDE: Manson telegraphs that Jacob has crossed 200 men at mouth of Greasy Creek, drove the rebel pickets, and took possession of the Narrows, which will enable him to protect the crossing of the remainder. Jacob has not heard anything from Carte Page 287 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 287 It is of the utmost importance to know whether Carter has succeeded in crossing the river. If he has failed, Jacob will be unable to hold his ground. I am of the opinion that the regiment of infantry sent to Columbia, andwhich will arrive to-day, together with section of artillery at Columbia, should be ordered to month of Greasy Creek to support Jacob, should he meet with reverses. Have sent 150 cavalry to Columbia to day, and will encamp at Green River to-night. ~. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. It is very important that Carter should communicate with and co- operate with Jacob. It would be very unfortunate to have Jacob cross with his force and be met by the entire force of the enemy without being supported. Shall send your last dispatch to Boyle. A. E. BUIINSIDE. LEXINGTON, April 28, 186310 p. m. Major-General BURNSIDE: Your dispatch received. I have telegraphed to Carter the importance of communicating and co-operating with Jacob, and to do all in his power. I am sure he will do all he can~ but if the river is too high to cross his artillery and infantry, the distance is very great from Somerset to Greasy Creek. I do not believe the enemy will make much fight unless my scouts deceive me. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General. (Same to Boyle.) GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE Onlo, No. 53. f Cincinnati, Ohio, April 28, 1863. I. In accordance with the spirit of the proclamation of the President of the United States, dated January 1, 1863, it is ordered that all per- sons belonging to or following the army in this department are forbid- den to interfere with or impede the operation of any civil process in the State of Kentucky having in view the recovery of slaves of citizens of the State, and they are likewise forbidden to aid or abet in their escape from their homes, or to employ such persons against the consent of their owners, except in cases where military necessity requires their impress- ment, which impressment must be made in accordance with regulations governing such cases. II. All slaves made free by the war measures of the President of the iJuited States, by Congress, or by capture during the war, are entitled to their freedom, and no one in this department has a right to interfere with that freedom. Any sale of such persons in this department is void. The rights of citizens must be respected by the army, and the war measures of the Government must be sustained. III. Any person willfully violating this order will be at once arrested and reported to the headquarters of General Boyle, at Louisville, for trial. Regulations to prevent confusion and injustice in the execution of this order will be published. J3y command of Najor-General l3arnside: T~EWIS RIChMOND, Assi.~ta~t Adjutant General Page 288 [CHAP. XXXV. 288 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., April 28, 1863. (Received April 299.15 a. in.) Brigadier-General THOMAS: Will the Fourth Missouri and First Wisconsin Cavalry come to me ~ Cannot 1 have the Eighth and Ninth Michigan Cavalry ~ Without necessary cavalry this army is like a six-horse team and wagon which wants linch-pins to enable it to move. W. S. lIOSECRAKS, Major- General. MuRFREESBORoUGH, April 29, 186312.30 a. in. LonnNzo THOMAS, Adjutant-General: Brig. Geu. Green C. Smith having been takeii ill, I must beg a cav- alry general. General W. L. Elliott would add 2,000 to our cavalry force. I dont think he can be worth this much at Winchester; there- fore I once more beg he will be sent to me. Honor to him and benefit to the service will result. W. S. ROSECRANS. MURFREESBOROUGH, April29, 1863--8 p. in. (Received April 3012.35 a. in.) Brig. Gen. Lonn~zo THOMAS, Adjutant- General: I ask you, shonld it be possible, to send me a few more infantry regi- ments. They are needed to complete the organization of the divisi9ns of this army, which have been weakened by detachinents to Kentucky of some five or six regiments. A few unattached regiments, such as Colonel [Charles F.] Taylors Pennsylvania Bucktails and others, sent here, will be of great use in two ways. W. S. BOSECIRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, April 29, 186312.30 a. m. (Received April 299.35 a. in.) General MEIGS: I am satisfied that present contract prices of horses at Louisville are too low to get good liorses or get them rapidly. Do alter that, and give authority to purchase in the open market for this emergency. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. WASHINGTON, April 29, 186310.45 a. in. Major.General ROSECRANS: Dispatch of 12.30 a. in. received. I have not limited the price of horses at Louisville; the offers of dealers fixed the price. I cant break contracts on the ground that the prices oft~red are low, but must insist on fulfillment of contracts. Send a good cavalry officer to Louisville to aid and supervise inspection. This will improve the qnality of stock more than offering higher prices. Colonel Swords has orders to spare no efforts to supply your wants. It is not necessary fov W9 to giv Page 289 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 289 authority to purchase horses in open market in Murfreesborough or Nashville for the emergency. The Secretarys letter of 18th of January gavi~ you this authority, which has not been recalled. Of course, the purchase must be made according to law, that is, with public notice and immediate delivery. Department of the Ohio has supplied your army since November with 14,063 horses and 11,842 mules, of which 7,357 horses were sent from Louisville to Nashville, and 6,706 horses delivered to troops of your army. You need more, and the officers are still buying and shipping to you. Lieutenant-Colonel Taylor reports one-fourth of your horses worn out. Is efficiency gained by service which breaks down horses, tasking them beyond their strength ~ Three cavalry regi- ments have been broken down by long return marches, without neces- sity marching 50 miles a day returning to camp. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, April 29, 18635.20 p. in. (Received 8.49 p. in.) M. C. MEIGS: What I learn is that only 29 horses per day are coming in since the new inspector began to be vigorous. We must have speed of de- livery as well as quality. Had I 10,000 more mounted force, I could, have all the stock and forage the rebels have taken under our noses; with 20,000, 1 conld have cut off the enemys subsistence from Middle Tennessee and commanded it myself. Our cavalry is one to their five; yet, by hard work, we whip every time. You speak about liberty of buying in my department. I take and buy everything here without money or hesitation. You must conceive the exigency. We can do nothing without horses. W. S. ROSECRANS, ill ajor- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington City, April 29, 1863. Col. THOMAS SWORDS, Assistant Quarterrnaster~ General, Louisville, Ky.: Secretary of War (lirects that no effort be spared to fill General Rose. crans requisitions for horses. General iRosecrans complains that he is not well supplied by the department, and his chief quartermaster, Lien. tenant-Colonel Semple, telegraphs that one-fourth of his horses are worn out. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster-General. ASSISTANT QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Louisville, Ky., April 29, 1863. General M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General, Washington, D. C.: SIR: On the 27th instant I informed you that 7,357 horses and 11,692 mules had been sent to the quartermaster at Nashville, and 6,706 horses and 150 mules furnished to the troops of General llosecrans army since November. The figures are made up as follows: 6,872 horses and 11,529 19 R RYOL XXIII, PT I Page 290 290 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. mules sent from this city, and 485 horses and 103 mules from Evans- ville, direct to the quartermaster at Nashville, and 5,015 horses and 150 mules furnished from this city, and 1,691 horses furnished from Indian- apolis for the troops. In addition, 913 horses and 42 mules were fur- nished the First Tennessee Cavalry at Cincinnati. Total 14,976 horses and 11,884 mules. On the receipt of General Rosecrans telegram, stating his great want of horses, I directed Captain Jenkins to purchase in the open market, limiting the price to what was being paid the contractors, who had about 800 to deliver before the close of the month, viz, $102.75 for cavalry and $106.75 for artillery. To have offered higher would have been injustice to them, and I thought might interfere with their filling their contracts promptly, and further directed him to advertise for proposals for 2,000 cavalry and 500 artillery. After opening the bids on the 1st proximo, the prices can be again fixed, and I will make every exertion to supply Gen- eral iRosecrans wants as rapidly as possible, either by contract or by pur- chase in the open market. Horses for some time past have been coming in very slowly, which may be attributed to the fact that the supply is becoming exhausted; that the inspections are more rigid than formerly, and that higher prices are, as I am informed, being paid elsewhere. The business of purchasing horses and mules throughout this section of country should be placed in the hands of one officer. It sometimes now happens that Government agents or contractors are buying at the same place at the same time for Washington, Saint Louis, Kentucky, and Tennessee the Government thus competing against itself, and conse- quently running the price up, and it would be well that a limit, beyond which no animal should be purchased, should be fixed. There being but little demand for horses and mules beyond what is required for Government use, the raisers should be willing to sell their stock at a fair price, and the speculators kept out of the market. Very respectfully, your most obedient servant, T. SWORDS, Assistant Quartermaster- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, April 29, 1863. (Received April 3012.45 a. in.) General M. C. MEIGS, Washington: Quartermaster [Henry C.] Hodges estimates the probable want of the post at Nashville, from now till the river again becomes navigable, at 600,000 bushels of coal. Please direct Colonel Cross to send 400,000. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGII, April 29, 18635.10 p. m. (Received 8.40 p. in.) Maj. J. D. KURTZ, Corps of Engineers, Assistant Chief Engineer: The general commanding this department has expressed his wish that the negroes employed upon the fortifications at Nashville be paid wages, and so enabled to support their families. Their case being at present a very hard one, I respectfully ask your attention to the letter I wrote to the Department on this subject, I think in November last. I will shortl Page 291 CnAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 291 prepare and forward estimate to put this matter in definite shape. At present the commanding general directs me to request you officially to give it your consideration. The chief difficulties are, of course, the ob- taining the money and the doubt as to propriety of paying slave negroes of loyal and of rebel owners not present, or free negroes who cannot prove their being free. I remain, very respectfully, trLlly, your obedient servant, J. ST. C. MORTON, Brigadier. General, Chief Engincer, Army of the Oumberland. [Indorseinent.] The necessity for paying them is, that from want, say, nine-tenths have deserted, and I think justly. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., April 29, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough: Dodge is at Tuscumbia Streight was to leave on Saturday. He is short of horses and mules. Have had no message from Dodge since Saturday. Marine Brigade left Hamburg on Friday; had a sharp skirmish at Dutch River. Gunboats and transports left to-day. Grier~ sons Sixth Illinois Cavalry have destroyed 20 miles of railroad, between Jackson and Meridian. They have not yet returned. S. A. IIUIRLBUT, Major. General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington Gity, April 29, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Commanding Department of the Ohio, Cincinnati: A telegram from Louisville, published in the National Intelligencer of this morning, contains the following paragraph: During the sale of a lot of negroes at the court-house this morning, the provost- marshal notified the owners that four were free under the Presidents proclamation. They nevertheless went on, when the matter of the four contrabands was tu~ned over to the district judge, who will take measures to annul the sale. The President directs me to say to yOU that he is much surprised to find that persons who are free, under his proclamation, hav& ~ been suf- fered to be sold under any pretense whatever; an(1 also desires me to remind you of the terms of the acts of Congress, by which the fugitive negroes of rebel owners taking refuge within our lines are declared to be captives of war. He desires you to take immediate measures to prevent any persons who, by act of Congress, are entitled to protection from the Government as captives of war from being returned to bondage or suffering any wrong prohibited by that act. A detailed dispatch, with instructions, will be sent to you to-day. Your vigilant and earnest attention to this subject within your department is spe- cially requested. E~DWJN M. STANTON, & cretary of War Page 292 292 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA.~ AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. WASHINGTON, D. C., April 29, 1863. Major.General BURNSIDE, C~incinnati: If you have any available troops that can be temporarily detached to assist General Scheuck, throw them into Parkersburg and Wheeling. I do not mean that you shall withdraw troops from Kentucky. H. W. HALJ4ECK. CINCINNATI, OHIo, April 29, 18639 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, Generalin- Chief: I have ordered all the troops that can possibly be spared from the different camps, and have made an arrangement with the naval author. ities here to send two gunboats, one from this place, which leaves to- night, and one from Cairo. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, OHIo, April 29, 18639.45 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- (hief: Arrangements have been made to cross the Cumberland at Waits- borough, Horse Shoe Bottom, and Celina, but the late rise in the river has delayed us. A considerable force of the cavalry have crossed, and I hope to get more over to-morrow. I am moving the Ninth Corps in the direction of Tomnpkinsvilie. If General Hookers movements should cause the withdrawal of a portion of the force in front of Suffolk, I hope you will send me my other division from there. They are very much needed here. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major. General. CINCINNATI, OHIO, April 29, 18639~53 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General.in- Chief: Considerable skirmishing at the line of the Cumberland yesterday and to-day,~with the results in our favor. Colonel Graham captured some 30 near Bennetts Ferry. Generals Morgan and Wheeler are in the vicinity of Gainesborough. Pegram is near at hand. It is said that Maneys brigade, from Yicksburg, has reached Knoxville. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major. General. CINCINNATI, April 29, 18639.20 p. m. General BOYLE: Colonel Grahams movements are very satisfactory. Let him remain in the neighborhood of Tompkinsville, but look oat that he is not caught. Order Morrisons entire brigade to Glasgow at once. Use your judg- ment about the route. If you conclude to send them by railroad from. Lebanon, it will be well to order the cars for them down to-night. I dont know exactly where they are. If they are at the crossing o Page 293 CnAP. XXX~.l COI~I~ESPONDENCE, ETC.UMON. 293 Green River or at Columbia, it will be better to march across. At any rate, get them there at the earliest possible moment. Their transpor- tation can go with them. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- Gcneral. CINCINNATI, April 29, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington, Ky.: Tell Carter to use his discretion. If he can cross with safety and whip the enemy, let him do it. I hope to hear from Boyle, as to Jacobs movements at Greasy Creek, very soon, and will transmit dispatch to you. Colonel Graham is at Tompkinsville, with outposts at Bennetts Ferry, Celina, Burkesville, and other crossings on the river. He has been skirmishing yesterday and to-day, with results in his favor. Mor- gan and Wheeler ai~e at ornearGainesborough. You can send a mounted force, as you desire, to Williamsburg, if you can do so without interfer- ing with Carters movements. I have directed a telegraph office to be opened at London. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, April 29, 1863. General WILLUOX, Lexington, Ky.: You can let the Twenty-fourth Kentucky remain where it is, and order the Tenth Kentucky Cavalry to Owingsville, one battalion of the Fourteenth to Mount Sterling, one battalion to Irvine, and one battalion to a point on the Kentucky opposite Proctor. Please make these move- ments as quickly as possible, so that the Ninth Corps can be put in motion at once. The New Jersey regiment with Carter can be marched across from Somerset to Columbia when Carter gets through with it, and have its transportation join it. It is important that the Ninth Corps should get to Columbia, with a view to moving to Glasgow or Tompkinsville as early as possible. If any portion, or the whole of it, can be~ sent to Nicholasville, Lexington, or Lebanon, to take cars to Cave City, let it be done if it will expedite the movement. The wagons can go across the country with proper guards. I am inclined to think it will be better for the whole corps to march. Let no time be lost. A. E. BURNSIDE, ______ Mwjor- General. CINCINNATI, April 29, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington: I want the Ninth Corps concentrated at Columbia, with a view to moving to Tompkinsville or Glasgow, except the Second Maryland, which will remain at or in the neighborhood of Frankfort. You have facilities for learning the nature of the roads, and you will please Lend a plan for the movement as early as possible. I would propose that the main body move via Stanford, Middleburg, and Liberty. It may be advisable, however, to move them by way of Lebanon. Where are Sturgis headquarters ~? Order all the troops to be ready to make the movement at once. I will give definite orders as soon as I hear from you. Send the Twenty-fourth Kentucky to Mount Sterling, and Four- teenth Kentucky to Irvine. A. E. BUJINSIDE, Major- General Page 294 294 KY., MID. AND Th TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. tCnAr. ZxxV~ LEXINGTON, April 29, 1863. Major-General BUJ2iNSIDE: Following just received from Carter: Your dispatch received. I am near Waitsborough. I wish to cross in the morning, if possible. One boat, I think, is all we can get. Five hundred cavalry are to cross to-night at Smiths Shoals, to move along south bank of the river to Waitsborough to protect our crossing. It is raining, and the river rising. CARTER. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., April 29, 1863. General S. P. CARTER, Gommanding Fourlh Division, Stanford, Ky.: GENERAL: The general commanding desires to have a ~nore efficient organization of your division, and he would suggest the following bri- gade organization as one to be adopted to correspond with the Ninth Corps: First Brigade (senior colonel corn manding).Twenty-fourth Kentucky, One hundredth Ohio, One hundred and third Ohio, One hundred and fourth Ohio, and Forty-fourth Ohio, mounted. Second Brigade (senior colonel commanding).One hundred and twelfth Illinois, Thirty-second Kentucky, Second Tennessee, and Forty- fifth Ohio, mounted. First Cavalry Brigade (Colonel Kautz commanding).Second Ohio Cavalry and Seventh Ohio Cavalry. The First Kentucky Cavalry and all the artillery of your command to be attached to the division, and afterward distributed as may seem best, the senior officer of artillery acting as chief of artillery for the division. TheD regiment of cavalry attached to division headquarters also to be disposed of as occasion may require. The Twenty-fourth Kentucky will not move to Mount Sterling until the general hears of Colonel Grigsbys application, forwarded to you. If it should be detached, it will ~till be considered a portion of your division, but reported on detached service. The Second Brigade, Colonel Christ commanding (First Division, Ninth Army Corps), is still considered as belonging to its old division, but on detached service under you, and will be so reported on your returns as Second Brigade, Second Division, Ninth Army Corps. The above organization will much simplify your returns, and will be more easily controlled. The general commanding would like to hear your views upon the sub- ject if you disapprove of it; otherwise the organization will go into effect. The First Brigade should be coimnanded by the senior colonel of the two brigades; so, perhaps, their designation should be changed. The artillery should be -so distributed that batteries may not be broken, if possible to avoid such contingency. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, NICOLAS BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff. P. S.All the troops of the Ninth Corps will always be considered as retaining their original designation in that corps, unless it may be ordered otherwise by the proper authority Page 295 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.tINION. 295 HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-FIRST ARMY CoRPS, Miurfreesborough, Tenn., April 30, 1863. General PALMER: The information I conveyed to you on the morning of th~ 28th con- cerning the movements of the enemy at Beech Grove, threatening your encampments at Cripple Creek and Readyville, was written hastily during the night. It was indefinite at the best, and I write now with the view of expressing my wishes more explicitly to you and your post commanders in the event of an emergency. In the first place, they must never forget that they are outposts of my command and for the Army of the Cumberland; that it is not contemplated to bring on a general engagement at either station, and, therefore, that in an engage- ment they must not look for re-enforcements, but full back to my lines for protection. In the event of a formidable attack on iReadyville (and which, from information previously received, might prove fatal to our position there), it would be better for General ilazen to fall back on Cripple Creek, fighting, if need be, than for General Cruft to advance to iReadyville, for should a general engagement take place in the vicinity, Readyville in itself will be of no value to us. In this event, General Ilazen will destroy, so far as practicable, all works that might be of value to the enemy. Should the posts be at- tacked simultaneously and with a force and energy that might cut off or capture either, both must withdraw, General ilazen through the woods on the new road indicated by you. I can conceive of no circum- stances whereby General Cruft should retire without communicating with or notifying General ilazen. Should authentic information reach these commanders of a general fight going on (or the sound thereof) on any other approach to Murfreesborough than that guarded by them, they will unite as speedily as possible to rejoin my command. Whilst instructions contemplating an attack by an unknown force, and time and plan of the enemy alike unknown, must necessarily be very iruper- fect, yet, relying as I do on the good judgment, discretion, and valor of my commanders, I feel that with these suggestions you, sir, with Gen- erals Cruft and Hazen, will fully realize and appreciate my views, and that in the hour of trial the best interests of the canse will be subserved in your hands. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, T. L. CRITTEINDET Major- General, Commanding. [Indorsement.] Respectfully forwarded to Brigadier-General ilazen. This letter was prepared by the corps commander, at my request, that we might have his views in definite shape for the government of Generals Cruft and ilazen and myself. J. M. PALMER, Major- General, Commanding. FRANKLIN, April 30, 1863---9.20 a. m. General ROSECRANS: The rebel advance turned out as I predicted. It was their ox that was gored by our bull. They were sure that we were advancing o Page 296 296 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAP. XXXV. them, and moved their stores and baggage back 20 miles behind Shel- byville. Forrest went to Florence and Decatur. All quiet in front. Rebels mighty vigilant and mad since our last rampage. G. GRANGER, Major. General. a GALLATIN, April 30, 1863. Brigadier.General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: A gunboat and four transports were coming up the river this morn- ing; the rebels fired into them, and one transport ran on a log and sank. One-third of her cargo can be saved. I shall go to her relief immediately. There were 200 men, with officers, on the fleet, and only 30 armed, and when they arrived here they were out of ammunition. I shall supply them. The fleet was going to Carthage. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier. General. GALLATIN, April 30, 18638.15 p. m. Brigadier-General GARFIELD: I have just returned from the wreck. The boats were fired upon by soldiers and citizens, with muskets and rifles. The gunboat returned the fire. The rebels had no artillery. The pilot or some other officer must have been frightened, and carelessly ran the boat on a log. It was loaded with bread mostly. I think I can save one hundred boxes. I sent one regiment across the river, to go down, and sent down my flat-boats to unload the wreck. I expect a fight on this side. The gun- boat was out of ammunition. I furnished what was required from the magazine. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General. CINCINNATI, OHIo, April 30, 1863. (Received 1.18 p. in.) Hon. GIDEON WELLES: The light-draught gunboats James Thompson, Exchange, and Ken- wood are about ready for service. They are very much needed on the Upper Ohio, Kanawha, and Big Sandy. Can you not authorize their use in these waters until some three or four others can be fitted up for that purpose, if you think the interests of the public service will am thorize the fitting out of boats for these waters ~ The naval department here states the work can be done at once if it receives the necessary orders, & c. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, April 30, 1863. General BOYLE: Communication has been closed during the day from some cause. You can keep Morrisons brigade in the position it is now in, and in- struct the garrison at Glasgow to hold the place if they should be at Page 297 CnAP. XXXV.) COERESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 297 tacked. Carter has crossed the Cumberland, and. probably now occu- pies Monticello. It would be well for Jacob to communicate with him. The expedition of Captain [Christopher C.] Hare is very creditable to him. The order for the military commission need not be changed. Colo- nel [Benjamin H.] Bristow can sign his name as colonel, late lieutenant- colonel, & c. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. COLUMBUS, Ky., April 30, 186310.20 p. m. Lient. Col. HENRY BLNMoRE, Assistant Adjutant-General: SIR: At the request of Major-General Curtis, I ordered, on the 28th instant, six companies of the Fourth Missouri Cavalry to co-operate with the iNew Madrid troops against Marmaduke,* and on their return to ope- rate ou the Obion against the two rebel captain~iPorter and Cotler. I have not yet heard from the expedition, but C apt. Frank Moore, Sec- ond Illinois Cavalry, has just reported, with Captain Cotler and 25 of his men, captured in the vicinity of. Eaton, Gibson County, Tennessee, after a six days scout and pursuit through the swamps. Captain Moore nearly succeeded in capturing Captain Porter also, who escaped in a skiff across the Forked Deer River with Moore iu hot pursuit. ASBOTH, Brigadier- General. Abstract from return of the Department of the Cemberland, Maj. Gee. William S. Bo8ecmns commanding, for the month of April, 1863; headquarters Murfreesborough, Tenn. Present for ~ ~ Pieces of a a duty. a artillery. 4 ~ . a e,O Command. a~ bIf~ be a an a ~-. - 4~ be b ~. 0 ~ bb bC be .5 bO bi) b5 .5 0 ~ -~1 ~ Department staff 10th Ohio, Ca]. Joseph W. Burke. 1st Battalion Ohio Sharpshooters, Capt. Ger- shorn M. Barber. Total 28 Fourteenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas: Staff 9th Michigan, Col. John G. Parkhurst. - . - - - - - First Division, Msj. (lIen. tovell H. Rous- seau. Second Division, Maj. Gen. James 5. Neg- icy. Third Division, Brig. Gen. John M. Schofield. Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. James D. Mor- gan. Fifth Division, Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Rey- nolds. Total Fourteenth Army Corps 20 24 33 30 25 442 569 649 684 . 3 162 246 321 368 604 815 970 1,052 7 7 9 7 25 327 455 495 511 325 5, 252 6, 836 9, 380 12, 249 18 272 4, 206 5, 489 8, 182 9, 364 38 412 7,700 9,315 11,409 11,038 16 369 6,131 7,483 9,198 7,662 12 252 4,011 4,986 5,850 6,443 ...... 16 1, 662 27, 627 34, 571 44, 523 47,274 80 See Series I, Vol XXII, Part I, p. 285 Page 298 o 0~0~-00t~00O 0 ~ 00 ~ 00000000000000 000 -10 100000000 1 0 000. 0 ~ 00000000000000 ~ 1 ~ 0 00000000 1 0 00 ~00000000000 0 0~0000 0 000 00000.~ 1 0 0000000-10000000000 0000 ~ -10000000000000-100 00000000 100000000000000 00 ~-0000.0- 00 00 00~00000 00 00000000001100~000 00 00000000 00000010000 00 00~100~000 H 0 00 0 0 CO 00 CO 0 00 00 01 0 00 00 H H CO CO H ~/~j00 ~ H 00oxj00 ~ H n:c4~ ~. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~0~ ~ H ~ H ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ -~ ~: ~- ~: 0 01 01 -~ 0 ~q~ CO C01CO. ~ ~ ~ . 0 ~ 0c.~ ~ o ~ COCO. o ~ ~ 0 ~ ~: 0 ~ .~. ~, CO ~ H:. ~o: ~ ~ ~ ~1 ~ ~ ~ 0 0 00 00 00 00 0 0 000000 00 0 0 0000 ~ 00 001 0 Officers. 00.~ -00--1~ ~ 0100 00 000 01 000000-~i0 00 000000 00 0 000~.000 o 00 00 0 ~ 00000 CO OCO 00 . ~ 00 ~00 00 0 000000 00 00 ~ 00 ~ 00~. -0000 5 000000 0 00 00000000 0 0 00 00 ~ ~. Men. 001 000000000-1 0 1~00 00 00 1 00 -100 00 ~ 00~ 0 1 00 0~ 00 o50 01 0 00 00-00 00 0 000000 00 000000 50000000000 0 -100 00 00 000000000 0 000 00 .~ ~0- Aggregatepresent. 0010..1- I0- 1 0000 000000000000 .5.00 .5. 0000 00000~1.100 0 00000 5. 00 000100.5.0 00 0 00000 0 1 0.5.00 00 ~~5-1 5 ~ 1~ 1 0 000000 00 00 00 ~00 ~ 00 Aggregate present ~001---l00 00 00-10 0 00 00000000 0 ~ 0~ 0 0 0000 0000000000 .5. 10000 0 00 .5-1.5.0000 00 00000 00 00 0000 andabsent. 0-01~5.0000 00. 0000 00 00 000000000 00 00-100 0 0 000000 00 00 - 00 1 0 00 1..~~ 00 0 0 000000 00 0 005.-1 00 1 0000 ~ i~ ~ Aggregate re- 0000000-100 00 000-1 -1 0 0000-1 00 000.~- 0 0 00000 0 01 5. 00 0000 torn. 0000000-100 00 00 o5.o5.00 00 5. 5.00 00000000-100 --10000 00 -1 00.4.0-1 0 00 0 1 00100 0. -~ 0- 00 0--1 0 .5. 00 00 0000 00 00 00 0000000000 00 0000 00 0000 00 0 0~-0~00 ~0 Heavy. 00 Field. 0 0 00 -t CO 0 0 CO 00 -t 00 0 5 CO 00 00 CO 00 0 00 00 0 0 00 CO z z :4 :4 1Ti2 a 01 N N N * z 0 00 CO 01 00 00 0 00 0 H H -I 0 0 0 00 00-10 ... Page 299 ths~p. X~X~.] CO1~Rt~SPONIitNCt, tIC.- UNION. 299 Abstract from return of the Department of the Ohio, Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Biernside com- manding, for the month of Apr~l, 1863; headquarters Cincinnati, Ohio. Present for ~ -~ Pieces of a duty. ~ ~. artillery. a 52+0 p., n~ ~, a 02 Command. CS 02 no no~u 52 a a~ fro no ~ no a 52cC ~- u Department commander and staff (Cincinnati, Ohio) District of Western Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Jeremiah T. Boyle: Staff (Louis~ille, Ky.) Bowling Green. Ky., Brig. Gen. Henry M. Judali Munfordvillo, Ky., Brig. Gen. Edward H. Hobson ... Lebanon, Ky., Brig. Gen. Mahion D. Manson In the field, Kentucky, Col. David Morrison Henderson, Ky., Col. John W. Foster Total District of Western Kentucky District of Central Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Orlando B. Willcox: Staff (Lexington, Ky.) Battery B, Second U. S. Artillery, Licut. Samuel K. Benjamin (near Lexington, Ky.). First Division, Ninth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Thomas Welsh (Middlebnrg, Ky.). Second Division, Ninth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Sam- uel D. Sturgis (Winchester, Ky.). Fourth Division, Ninth Army C6rps, Brig. Gen. Sam- uel P. Carter (Monticello, Ky.). Lexington, Ky., Col. Joshua K. Sigfried Frankfort, Ky., Col. Thomas B. Allard Paris, Nicholasvile, Cynthiana, & c Total District of Central Kentucky District of Eastern Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Julius White: Staff (Louisa, Ky.) Troops in district Total District of Eastern Kentucky District of flhinois, Brig. Gen. Jacob Ammen: Staff (Springfield, Ill.) Camp Butler, Col. William F. Lynch (near Springfield, ill.). Camp Douglas, near Chicago Total District of fllinois District of Indiana, Brig. Gen. Milo S. Hascall: Staff (Indianapolis, md.) Indianapolis Evansville Total District of Indiana District of Ohio, Brig. Gen. Jacob D. Cox: Staff (Cincinnati, Ohio) Columbus, Brig. Gen. John S. Mason Camp Dennison, Lient. CoL George W. Neff Cincinnati, Lieut. Col. Seth Eastman Sandusky, Ohio, Maj. William S. Piernou Covington, Ky., Brig. Gcn. Davis Tilison Total District of Ohio Newport Barracks, Lient. Col. Seth Eastman 31 31 32 11 7 18 18 134 2,019 3,047 4,512 7 148 2,010 2,901 5,229 2 11 110 1,484 1,976 5,365 12 121 1,812 2,255 3,113 . 74 1,418 1,923 2,463 13 598 8,790 12,120 20,700 2 43 20 20 21 2 114 115 152 6 119 2,090 2,558 3,028 6 227 1,318 4,144 6,094 10 404 7, 505 9, 204 12,281 24 59 897 1,070 1,313 6 23 264 329 507 109 2,343 2,774 3,366 8 962 16,531 20,234 26,762 60 5 5 5 73 1,257 1,622 ~2,004 6 78 1,257 1,627 2,009 6 2. 2 2 41 826 1,221 1,586 9 217 268 292 52 1,043 1,491 1,880 4 4 4. 56 2,144 2,355 2,892 5 54 69 80 65 2,198 2,428 2,976 . 9 9 9 23 630 804 920 18 482 578 688 . 14 107 210 527 10 240 331 384 26 492 601 609 100 1,871 2,533 3,137 171 236 238 Page 300 ~OO TENN., KY., MID. AND E. N. ALA., AND SW. VA. tCn~r. XXXV. Ab8tract from retiern of the Department of the Ohio, ~c.Continued. RECAPITULATION. Present for -4- -~ Pieces of duty. artillery. p4 CS Command. CS CS bS n uP Q ~ ~ a ea bC CS 0 Department commander and staff 31 31 32 District of Western Kentucky 598 8, 790 12, 120 20, 706 2 43 District of Central Kentucky 962 16, 531 20, 234 26, 762 00 District of Eastern Kentucky 78 1, 257 1, 627 2, 009 6 District of Illinois 52 1, 043 1, 491 1, 880 District of Indiana 65 2,198 2, 428 2, 976 District of Ohio 100 1, 871 2, 533 3, 137 ..... Newport Barracks, Ky 5 171 236 238 Total 1,891 31,861 40,700 57,740 2 109 Grand total department return for April, 1863 1, 881 30, 916 39, 285 56, 288 2 89 MUEFREESEOROUGII, May 1, 186311.35 a. m. (Received 3.30 p. in.) Brigadier-General THOMAS, Adjutant- General: Will, the Fourth Missouri and First Wisconsin Cavalry come here from the Department of the West ~ It is of the utmost importance to us to know this; and, if they are coming, how soon ~ W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General. QUARTERMASTER-GENERALS OFFICE, Washington, May 1, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: M~ DEAR GENERAL: I have lately had much telegraphic corre- spondence with you in regard to horses. The Secretary of War directed me to report what had been done to supply you; hence the calls for reports. The fact is that our officers had orders and powers, limited only by the law, to till your requisitions, and it is only lately that I have learned that the supply was insufficient for your wants. It is diffi- cult to provide as many horses as you demand. When you obtained from the Secretary authority to mount a certain portion of your in- fantry, about 2,000 horses had been accumulated at Indianapolis. The officers at Louisville were authorized to fill your requisitions as fast as possible; to help them, the 2,000 at Indianapolis were ordered to you. I hoped that you would be speedily supplied. At that time, as I re- member, from 6,000 to 8,000 infantry were to be mounted. Complaints began to come of the inferior quality of horses and mules purchased and forwarded to your army. The sudden demand for some 12,000 ani- mals, the urgent pressure upon the officers to forward them promptly, had their natural effect of inducing officers and the inspectors to be less nice than when acting under less urgent orders, and they allowed horses to pass inspection which, when they reached the front, were condemned. I directed investigation, and, finally, Captain IRoyall, o Page 301 CHAP. XXXV.l CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 301 the Fifth Cavalry, was ordered by General Burnside to revise the in- spection. His vigorous and rigorous inspection has checked deliveries, and in time, if sustained, will have the effect of raising the quality of the stock to the standard of the specifications. The Thxge number of horses you have sent back to Louisville to be recruited, over 9,000, shows that you have had more horses than your troops have been able to take care of. You say that there has been great mortality, for want of long forage, which could not be furnished for want of transportation. Were there then so many animals in the department that they could not transport their own food? When our army reaches this limit, what is the remedy? Is not every additional horse another subject for starvation ~ (Jr is the deficiency of trans- portation on the part of the railroad? Could it not transport enough food and forage to the depot of the army? How do the rebels, without water transportation, in a country destitute in a great measure of hay- producing grasses, support the immense mounted force which you report? Lieutenant-Colonel Taylor reports 11,478 cavalry and 3,339 ar- tillery horses on hand on 31st March, say 12,000 mounted men. You say the monnted rebels outnumber you five to one, and this I do not take to be a careless expression, for I find it repeatedly used in your dispatches to the General-in-Chief and to myself. Have they 60,000 mounted men? How do they find food for them~ How can long foragecorn-stalks, the only long forage of the Southbe conveyed in bulk to this immense force? I cannot but think you are mistaken in your estimate, and that their activity, the result of the same necessity which keeps the buffalo traveling, makes them appear in various places, and thus causes their numbers to be exaggerated. A herd of buffalo resting for four months on a prairie in one place would starve. They must travel to feed, and so with the rebel cavalry. You report to General Halleck that you have received, since December 1, [1862,] 18,450 horses and 14,607 mules33,057 animals; nearly 7,000 animals per month. Is not this a large supply? Except in the first out- break of war and enlargement of armies, has anything like it ever been done before? The animals cost, by the time they reached you, nearly $4,000~000. You had on hand March 23,19, l64horses and 23,859 mules 43,023 animals in all; or, if I am rightly informed by General Halleck as to your strength, about one horse or mule to every two men in your army. You have broken down and sent off as unserviceable, in addi- tion to these, over 9,000 horses, and report that one-fourth or one-third of the horses on hand are worn out. Now, all this, it seems to me, shows that the horses are not properly treated. They are either overworked, or underfed, or neglected and abused. The evil cannot be the quality of the horses, for if the horses are young they should be worked only in proportion to their strength. I have known a regiment here rendered useless by a long march returning to camp, a march of 60 miles in twenty-four hours, no enemy being in pursuit, and the only object to be gained being to get back to camp. The same regiment, after recover- ing from the effects of this march, was ordered on another expedition. Marched some 20 miles in the afternoon, and in the next thirty hours marched, it is asserted by its officers, 90 miles; rested a day or two, and returned home by a march of 50 miles in twenty-four hours. This ex- l)edition picked up a dozen stragglers, but saw no enemy in force; had no engagement. A few nights afterward it was desired to put it in motion again. The regiment, a new one, 1,100 strong, lately raised and fresh mounted, reported that for another march it could mount 350 men. Such marches destroy the horses, and no Government can keep on Page 302 302 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. hundred and twenty regiments of cavalry mounted while such a system is tolerated. Cavalry cannot be supported if it is to be kept at constant hard work and the horses are not groomed and cared for by the men, and they will not be unless the officers personally attend to this duty. With great deference to your experience, would not the less costly mode of defend- ing your communications from the rebel cavalry be to give them some occupation in protecting their own ~ One thousand cavalry behind an army will give full occupation to 10,000 in pursuit. Every cavalry ex- pedition of any force on either side, so far as my memory serves, has been, in a great degree, successful. Our armies have been ridden round time and again; our trains captured, bridges burned, communications cut, and we never succeed in destroying or capturing the force which does the damage, and never will except by fortunate accident. Our raids have been less numerous, but, when made, always successful in doing injury and in escaping without serious loss. The country can be covered by small posts, well placed, well fortified, capable of holding out indefinitely against cavalry and infantry, and against field artillery until relieved. The main body of the cavalry should, it seems to me, be thrown upon the rear of the enemy, to live upon the country, cut his communica- tions, and harass the country generally; take every horse seen, good or bad; shoot all those that cannot follow, and thus put the rebels to straits while mounting your own men. There can be no great bodies of troops at any interior points, and 1,500 cavalry and mounted infantry could, it seems to me, force their way as far south as Jackson, and cut all the telegraphs and railroads from near that point to Milledgeville, not attacking the large towns, running from every large body of troops, but living on the plantations, destroying all military stores and railroads and common road bridges, and sickening the people of a war which made their homes unsafeplaying on land the Alabamas game on the sea. We have at this moment Wheeling and Pittsburgh in a panic from 1,500 cavalry and guerrillas who left Woodstock a week ago, and have appeared in or near the southwest corner of Pennsylvania, causing the destruction of nine bridges on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, one of which cost $800,000. General Scheuck, who commands the Middle Department and over 40,000 soldiers, is not likely to catch them. The last reports are that they are returning safely into Virginia. You have 11,000 or 12,000 mounted men, and say that if you had 10,000 more you could have taken the forage and stock which the rebels have taken under your nose, and that if you had had 20,000 more you could have cut off their subsistence from Middle Tennessee and commanded it yourself. See what forces you ask for. You have 12,000; you should have had 22,000 or 32,000 mounted men. Had it been possible to furnish so many men with horses, it would have been necessary to furnish more horses still to transport forage for these, and the difficulty of feeding would have been greater and greater. I doubt the wisdom of building up such masses, which crumble under their own weight. Our armies, it appears to me, are encamped too much in mass. How Napoleon divided his troops during every period of inaction, bringing them together only the day before or the night before a battle, and scattering them for sub- sistence the moment his blow was delivered! Look at the Army of the Potomaca solId, itiac1~1ve mass of men and animals for the last five months. How it has taxed the country to supply it! It has drawn nothing from the country it occupies, except wood Page 303 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 303 I have written you a long dissertation on cavalry, which I dare say you will find contains nothing new to you; but the complaints which you make of deficient supply of horses have lately occupied much of my thoughts and time, and I have put on paper the considerations to which they have led me. Colonel Swords, chief quartermaster of the Western District, has been sent to Louisville to expedite this supply of horses to you, and whatever can be done will be done, but it is not possible to pick up 10,000 horses in a morning, and it will be long before you can get any such addition to your forces. Five thousand more horses are called for here to supply losses of an inactive winter, though a constant stream of horses has poured into Washington since the war began. I have advised you to send cavalry officers to aid in the inspection, and thus keep up the standard. The quartermasters will take all fit horses offered them, but as for buying in open market, I have tried that here, and did not get a hundred. I then gave public notice and gave out contracts, and supplied Mc- (Jlellans army between Bull Run and Yorktown, 225,000 strong, with nearly one thousand pieces of artillery. Men will not bring horses from a distance on the chance of sale; they must have fixed contracts on which they can rely before they will incur the risk and cover the country with agents to pick u~ horses. The Government cannot employ these numerous agents, who would run off with the funds or bring worthless horses. I have not the officers, and I cannot get from the generals commanding in the field even competent officers enough to supervise inspections at the depots. How, then, car I get the hundreds who would be needed to overrun the country and buy horses directly from the farmers I I might as well undertake to purchase each bushel of oats or ton of hay or barrel of flour from the particular farmer who sowed the seed. Compel your cavalry officers to see that their horses are groomed; put them in some place where they can get forage, near the railroad, or send them to your rear to graze and eat corn. When in good order, start them, a thousand at a time, for the rebels communications, with orders never to move off a walk unless they see an enemy before or behind them; to travel only so far in a day as not to fatigue their horses; never to camp in the place in which sunset found them, and to rest in a good pasture during the heat of the day; to keep some of their eyes open night and day, and never to pass a bridge without burning it, a - telegraph wire without cutting it, a horse without stealing or shooting it, a guerrilla without capturing him, or a negro without explaining the Presidents proclamation to him. Let them go any way so that it is to the rear of the enemy, and return by the most improbable routes, gen- erally aiming to go entirely round the enemy, and you will put Johnston and Bragg into such a state of excitement that they will attack or re- treat to relieve themselves; they will not be able to lie still. You gained a great success at Murfreesborough by your persevering courage and endurance. The same qualities will enable you to conquer in the next struggle, but this long inactivity tells severely upon the re- sources of the country. The rebels will never be conquered by waiting in their front. Operate on their communications; strike every detached post; rely more upon infantry and less upon cavalry, which in this whole war has not decided the fate of a single battle rising above a skirmish, which taxes the resources of the country, and of which, we have now afoot ~ larger animal strength than any nation on earth. W Page 304 304 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. have over one hundred and twenty-six regiments of cavalry, and they have killed ten times as many horses for us as for the rebels. Wishing you every success, I am, general, very truly, your obedient servant, N. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General U. S. Army. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY Couirs, Mmfreesborough, May 1, 1863 Brigadier General SCHOFIELD, Commanding Third Division: In answer to your note requesting permission to destroy the flour mill at Chapel Hill, I am instructed by the general commanding to say that you have full permission to do so if from your present information you deem it practicable. It is needless to say to you, general, that the en- emy are watching out, and our late raid upon McMinnville has not lessened their vigilance. Very respectfully, sour obedient servant, GEO. E. FLYNT, Assistant Adjutant.General and Chief of Staff. CARTHAGE, May 1, 1863. (Received May 2.) Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Everything is quiet here. I am putting a sharp edge into this divis. ion, and expect to be able to do good service when called for. The enemy does not make his appearance here, but has gone up the river somewhere. I am expecting reports from there hourly. When will the paymaster be here l Cannot a mustering officer be sent to this division ~ There are a great number of officers to be mus- tered into service. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. NAVY DEPARTMENT, May 1, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBROSE E. BURNSIDE, Cineinnat~, 0kw: Your telegram is received. The three gunboats named and other light- draught vessels have been purchased upon the urgent request of Gen- eral Rosecrans for such vessels in the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers The. Department would not like to divert them from this service without his consent. Captain Penuock, senior naval officer at Cairo, has authority to pro- vide steamers for the Western waters when the exigencies demand it. it is suggested that you communicate with him. GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy Page 305 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 305 Major-General HALLECX, CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 1, 1863. General-in-Chief: General Barry wrote to General Tilison that authority had been given to organize two artillery regiments, but no such information has reached these headquarters. I am anxious to know if such is the case, and if it is the intention to make the One hundred and eighteenth Ohio one of them. Can we commence the organization of Kentucky troops ~l It is very important it should be done at once. The bearer of dispatches from the Secretary of War has arrived with your letter,* and the instruc- tions will be strictly observed, and I will send by him a detailed account of the movement which I propose. I have crossed a force to the south side of the Cumberland of some 4,000 men under General Carter. They were near Monticello at last advices, with continued skirmishing, with results in our favor, A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 1, 1863. General W. S. IROSECRANS, Murfreesborough: We have had continued skirmishing along the line of the Cumberland for several days. I shall try to hold Monticello permanently. We hold Tompkinsville and Williamsburg, with guards at Bennetts Ford and below. Morgan and Wheeler are said to be at Gainesborough or near there. Hartsuff left here to-day for your camp to consult with you and bring back information. He knows my plans. If there is anything I can do for you, let him know. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. MAY 1, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky. The following dispatch has just been received from General Willcox: Dispatch just received from Carter, 5 miles north of Monticello, April 30, 9p. in.: The infantry arrived at this point one honr ago. The mounted force is still crossing at Mill Springs; will be en this side of the river, about 1 mile from this place, some time during the night. The cavalry fome that crossed above rested last night. Had several little skirmishes with rebel cavalry in our advance this p. in.; no loss on our side, except one man supposed to be captured. One rebel cavalry regiment has, as I Jearn, advanced 2 miles this side of Monticello, and is 6 miles from us. If you can communicate with Colonel Jacob, via Columbia, at which point he has a courier post to his camp, please advise him to cross the river and advance on Monticello. CARTER. You will order Colonel Jacob to cross the river and communicate with and co-operate with General Carter to the extent of his ability, keeping his flank well protected, leaving his infantry at the crossing to protect it. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., May 1, 1863. General CARTER, Somerset: Your dispatch received. I have telegraphed General Burnside, ad- vising Jacobs crossing. I have ordered commanding officer at Stanford ~ frnnd. 20 i~ uvoid XXIII, PT I Page 306 306 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. to send you two or three days supplies, if he has that on hand; if not, it will be sent as fast as it arrives. It will be sent to Somerset. Welshs division will probably concentrate at Monticello; another division at Williamsburg. . ~. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., Allay 1, 1863. Brigadier-General STURGIS, Comdg. Second Div., Ninth Army Corps, Winchester, Ky.: GENERAL: The general commanding directs that you concentrate your whole division at a point on the Richmond and Crab Orchard road, where it crosses Paint Lick. The destination of the Ninth Corps has been changed. You will choose the route by which the Second Brigade will march to the point indicated. The cavalry shonid reach its destination before the Second Brigade is entirely withdrawn from Winchester and its vicinity. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, NICOLAS BOWEN, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff. MUR~FREES13OROUGH, May 2, 18632 a. m. Major.General HURLEUT: Van Dorn is probably not at Eastport. Forrest, with 3,000 or 4~000 men, is all that is there. Dodge had better stay at Juka. Should Van Dorn turn out to be there, we will follow up his rear at once. Yours, respectfully, ~. ~. ROSECRANS, Major- General. HDQRS. SECOND BRIG., THIRD DIV., FOURTEENTH A. C., DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, La Vergne, ]Jiliay 2, 1863. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Chief of Staff, Fourteenth Army Corps: COLONEL: .1 retnrned to-day from a highly successful foraging trip across Stones River. I started with the expedition yesterday morning at 5 oclock with three regiments of infantry, 100 cavalry, one section of artillery, and 90 wagons. We crossed Stones River at Charltous Ford, 4 miles northeast of this camp, moved in the direction of Lebanon, 8 miles from the ford, to ilugles Mill, where we loaded 65 wagons with corn, and then moved on, in the same direction, to Logue~s tannery, 2 miles from fingles, where we loaded, as at ilugles, from the farms of active rebels, 25 wagons with corn. While the teams were being loaded at Logues, a squad of rebel cavalry made a dash on the vedettes I had thrown out on the Lebanon road, but were driven oil without doing any damage to my men. From Logues, I marched in a southwesterly direction, to Goodwin Page 307 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 307 Ford, where I camped for the night, on the east side of Stones River, returning to camp at 10 oclock this morning, all safe, with ninety loads of corn and 2 prisoners, believed to be bushwhackers. I made an expedition through the same region of country on the 28th of April, bringing to camp eighty-live loads of corn and 2 prisoners (Captain [Wade] Baker, of the Twenty-eighth Tennessee rebel infantry, and a noted guerrilla by the name of Worl). In making both these expeditions, I have patrolled a section which has been a place of resort and concealment for the rebels who have made the raids upon the railroad and pike between this post and Nash- ville. On Monday I will go over the river again with a large train. Respectfully, JAMES B. STEEDMAN Brigadier- General, Commanding Post. WASHINGTON, D. C., May 2, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati: The Secretary of War authorizes you to commence the organization of Kentucky troops. You are also authorized to organize two artillery regiments, reporting to Adjutant-General the organization, for proper orders. Operations here are becoming interesting. ~ XK HALLECK, General-in- Chief LOUISVILLE, May 2, 18631L40 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE:. Colonel Jacob, with cavalry and two pieces of artillery, crossed the Cumberland, and is moving to co-operate with General Carter. General Judah telegraphs the enemy threaten attack on Scottsville, and that, in co-operating with Generals Ilobson and Paine, he will move upon them. I do not believe there is enemy there. Citizens from Cadiz, Trigg County, Kentucky, report to me that some of the soldiers from Fort Donelson cross over into Kentucky and rob citizens of money, watches, & c., and pilfer and molest property, and threaten citizens, and run off negroes. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. LEXINGTON, May 2, 186311.30. General CARTER, Monticello: Your dispatch of 11 p. m. last night received. Your discovery of enemys force will govern you for the present. Can your division and another of equal strength be supplied at Mon- ticello, according to General Orders, No. 40, Department Headquarters, with view to an advance in that direction ~ Please send extra telegraph operator, now with you, to Somerset, so as to keep lines working all night. WILLCOX, Brigadier-General Page 308 308 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, lliei~derson, Ky., May 2, 1863. Capt. A. C. SEMPLE Asst. Adjt. Gen., Dist. of Western Kentucky, Louisville, Ky.: CAPTAIN: I deem it proper that I should report to the general com- manding one of the most brutal outrages which has beeu committed by the fiendish spirits of this rebellion. About midnight of the 24th of April last, a band of armed men came to the house of an aged man by the name of Cowan, a peaceable and inoffensive citizen of Union County, snrrounded it, to avoid any escape, and forcibly entered it and dragged with violence from his bed the old man, and carried him hurriedly away into the woods, about 2 miles from his house. They then stripped him bare of his clothing, pinioned him securely to the ground, and, taking large green hickory withes, two of the fiends lashed his bare back until ever y portion of it was cut and lacerated into one bleeding mass, and continued the brutal outrage until they had worn out their lashes upon his bare body; and then, to finish the devilish and cowardly work, they turned the helpless old man over, and struck him several severe blows upon his abdomen, which have caused dangerous internal wounds; and thns, having vented their assassin-like passions npon the infirm victim of their traitorous malice, they abandoned him in the woods to the mercy of whoever might chance to find his mangled and scarcely breathing body. The only reason given by the armed band for this outrageous treatment was that he was suspected of having given to the Union troops some information of the supposed whereabouts of certain guer- rillas, who had been annoying the whole country, and in whose capture every law-abiding citizen was interested. Their victim was a quiet and highly respected old man, whose only crime was loyalty to the Govern- ment of his fathers. These men have likewise threatened to visit other Union men of that county with like outrages. Such is the evil spirit of this wicked rebellion as it manifests itself among the lawless bands of Union County. They came in the darkness of midnight, and, following their cowartlly instincts, carefully disguised their persons, so that it is difficult to detect them; but they are still, I have no doubt, at large, and harbored by citizens of the county. These outlaws are developing the legitimate results of the rebellion, and the public men of the county, who have raised the whirlwind of treason and encouraged these baser spirits in their earlier work, are still enjoying the protection of the Gov- ernment and claiming the rights not only of living quietly in the pos- session of their homes, but aspire to hold the public offices and rule the affairs of the county. I will do all I can to detect the Villains who have committed this act, that they may be brought to early justice. Very respectfully, JOHN ~. FOSTER, Colonel, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, Murfreesborough, Tenn., May 3, 1863. Brig. Gen. LoRENzO THOMAS Adjutant-General Ti. S. ~Army, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from the Secretary of War to the General-in-Chief, directing that Cob- pel Gillems First Tennessee Infantry be detached from general servic Page 309 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 309 and placed under the command of Governor Johnson, and indorsed by General ilalleck for me to carry it into execution. I shall give the requisiteorders, but it is my duty to express the apprehension that we shall thus lose the services of a regiment. I am also apprehensive that having a regiment within the garrisou of Nashville not subject to the orders of the general commanding is far more likely to beget discord and trouble than anything else. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. CARTHAGE, TENN., ]iiiay 3, 1863. (Via Gallatin, May 49.30 a. in.) Brig. Gen. JATvIES A. GARFIELD: The boats arrived last night. The boat loaded with antiscorbutics sank just above Gallatin. Our men are suffering terribly for want of them. The boats will be sent back to Nashville immediately; cannot they be sent back at once with these much-needed articles? Very little clothingsome three hundred pairs of pantscame up. Blouses and pants are greatly needed; many of the men have none. The rebels are again making their appearance iu the Alexandria country, and scattering through the country in all directions. Nothing can be done with them from here without cavalry. It will be necessary to send some of our sick down, if these articles cannot be obtained here soon. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUJYIBERLAND, No. 99. ]Ifurfreesborough, !Ienn., May 3, 1863. In pursuance of a plan proposed by the assistant iuspector.general of this army for the reorganization of his department, the following orders are published for the guidance of all concerned: I. General Orders, No. 6, of November 6, 1862, and the inspection circulars of December 20, 1862, and January 23, 1863, are hereby abrogated. II. Each division and brigade commander will immediately nominate from his command three energetie and capable officers as inspectors, and forward their names to the corps commanders, who will, from the three, approve and appoint one, whose name shall be forwarded to the general commanding for his approval as an inspector, who shall perform all the duties of his office in accordance with this order and the Army Reg- ulations. The inspectors thus appointed will be of the rank of majors for divisions and captains for brigades, unless special authority, in par- ticular cases, be given to appoint officers of less rank. They shall be known as division and brigade inspectors. III. A monthly and semi-monthly report will be made as heretofore, and in accordance with the blanks to be furnished from the office of the assistant inspector-general of the department. The semi-monthly re- port will embrace the time to the evening of the 14th, and will be made by the brigade inspectors; and, after being approved by the brigade commander, will be handed to the division inspectors by the morning of the 18th. The monthly report will embrace the time up to the end of the month, and will be made and forwarded in the same manner Page 310 310 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CIrAP. XXXV. Brigade reports will be in duplicate, and by rebiments, giving the bri- gade total; one copy to be retained in corps inspectors office, and one to be forwarded by him to the office of assistant inspector-general of the department. Division reports will be in the same manner in du- plicate, and by brigades, giving division totals, and will be made by division inspectors, immediately npon receipt of brigade reports, one copy to be retained in corps inspectors office and one forwarded to office of assistant inspector-general, as before. Corps reports will be in duplicate, and by divisions, giving corps totals, one copy to be re- tained and one forwarded, as before. All totals shall be in red ink. Brigades and divisions on detached service will report in the same manner, in duplicate, and through the corps inspectors. If such reports cannot be obtained in time for consolidation, they will be forwarded separately, and by him to the office of the assistant inspector-general of the department. Regiments that are detached, and cannot be re- ported upon by the brigade inspector, will be reported upon in the same manner as above described, and by their adjutants. Blanks will be furnished by corps inspectors to the infantry organizations iu their corps, and the reports must be made full and in strict accordance with them. Every report, whether regimental, brigade, division, or corps, will be accompanied by a letter of advice, which shall contain every informa- tion which may be of any importance to the general commanding the department. It must state briefly, but fully, all points which need at. tention, and recommendations, if necessary, on such points as the inspector may think proper. They must not be mere formalities. All letters of advice, or copies of them, will be forwarded, with the reports to which they belong, to the office of the assistant inspector-general, at department headquarters. The letter of advice of the corps inspectors should be very full, but concise, and touch on all changes and improve- ments, recommendations that have and have not been acted upon, or results obtained. Should inspectors find companies or regiments par- ticularly deserving of praise or censure, it should be given fully and without hesitation. The commanding general directs this particularly. Guards will be reported upon as to the number of men and average daily detail in brigade in remarks and letter of advice. Hospitals will be reported upon as to the number of men and daily average number of sick in regiment or brigade in remarks ~ and letter of advice. Officers absent without leave will be reported in letters of advice. IV. Inspectors will use figures, instead of adjectives, to express the condition of regimental books and papers, company books and papers, discipline, drill, sanitary conditien of camps, and cooking; also arms, accouterments, and ammunition. With books and papers, 1 will repre- sent Neat, according to Regulations; 2, According to Regulations; 3, Not according to Regulations ~ 4, ~B~d;~ 5, Not kept up; 6, Totally neglected. With discipline, drill, sanitary condition of camp, and cooking, 1 will represent The best;~~ 2. ~ 4, Only medium; ~ 5, Bad; 6, Very bad, and 7, ~ Cloth- ing will be reported as ~ Worn, Well worn,~~ XVorn out,~~ and Ragged. Corps inspectors will receipt to the inspector-general of the department for the inspection blanks issued to them, and make a quarterly statement to said officers how and when they were dis- posed of. V. All printed orders will hereafter be distributed by the assistant inspector-general of the department, and will be sent to corps inspector Page 311 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 311 (in bulk), who will distribute them to their corps, including all arms of the service. The orders will be receipted for in bulk by the corps iu- spectors. All orders needed to fill out files in each regiment will be noted in letters of advice; also last orders received, both War Depart- ment and Department of the Cumberland. Particular attention must be paid to the proper distribution of orders, and inspectors will be in a measure responsible for the files, or show cause why they are not complete. VJ. Inspectors must ascertain if all the officers reported for duty on the morning reports are present for inspection. Should any be absent, they must be reported by name in the letter of advice. They will also inspect provision returns, and see if they are based upon the morning reports, which reports they will also examine, and ascertain that they are correct. If faulty, it should be reported promptly and fully at once. Inspectors will give particular attention to the treatment of Government animals, and report when they are not properly fed or cared for, and the names of qu~irtermasters who are neglectful of them, or allow them to be ill-treated or ridden hard. No officer or man has a right to use a public horse except on the public service, and quarter- masters are responsible that it is not done when in their department. Inspectors must see that officers have no more tents and baggage for themselves or others than is allowed by brders. Department Orders, Nos.3,1O,17,21,24,25,26,29,30,and4O,of1862,audNos.5,21,32, and 33, of 1863, must be particularly observed, and, if not fully carried out, must be adverted to in the letters of advice. Inspectors will also report the capacity and zeal of officers in command of troops, staff officers, & c., mode of enforcing orders by officers. They will also report in all new localities upon the roads, communications, where forage can be obtained, and, in fact, all information which may be of use, or will aid to correct defects and introduce improvements. VII. It is found that the duties of division and brigade inspectors are not distinctly enough divided. The brigade inspectors will in future be relieved from reviewing troops and inspecting by regiments or bri- gades, and it will be their duty, instead, to closely examine and inspect the arms, accouterments, ammunition, clothing, and general equip- ment and condition of their brigades, by companies, and specially report to the commanding officer of the regiment and brigade,in addition to their report to the division inspector, ull evils, irregularities, and wants, of whatever nature, as well as those deserving praise. This does not relieve them from other specified duties and instructions under this order. The division inspectors will attend to the general inspection and reviewing of the troops in reference to drill, discipline, condition of camps, transportation, & c. The duties of division and brigade in- spectors in reference to vedette and grand guard and other general duties to remain unchanged. On a march, they will assist the corps in- spectors in all things pertaining to the inspector-generals department. VIII. Inspectors must consider themselves always on duty, and per- form their duties without favor or fear. They must have no friends to reward, or enemies to punish, through their official position. They stand as the censors of the army between the commanding general and all officers or men, no matter what their rank or standing may be. Officers who are habitually intemperate, neglectful of their duty, or ignorant and careless must be fully reported on. The duties of in- spectors are not always pleasant ones, but they must be performed fairly, and any officer who seeks to find fault with them, or indulge in hard feelings, is both unwise and impolitic Page 312 312 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [Cr~xr. XXXV. If inspectors do their duty; the efficiency and discipline of the army can be still more improved. It is hoped that they will not forget that their position is a responsible one, and that the general commanding looks to them for earnest and active work in helping him to make this army what it onght to be. Their appointment is a mark of apprecia- tion of their soldierly qualities. It is hoped they will sustain the repu- tation that places them in their important position. The inspectors are friends of both commanders and troops. Justice, good temper, a resolute impartiality, and the avoidance of a bitter and censorious spirit, should characterize their official reports and actions. The friends and aiders of the commanders, by observing all that is done amiss, left undone, or well done, they are equally friends of subordi- nates and soldiers, whose rights, interests, and honor are at stakethe just fulfillment of orders, regulations, and maintenance of discipline. By command of Major-General iRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS, Louisville, May 3, 1863. Major.General BURNSJDE: The Sixty-third Indiana is stationed as guards along the railroad at bridges from New Haven to Shepherdsville. The Fiftieth Ohio garrisons the redoubts at Muldraughs Hill, to protect trestle and bridge. They have guns in position, with only horses for two to move guns from one point to another. Colonel Williams, Twentieth Michigan, has returned to Columbia from Greasy Creek; reports Pegrams force 10,000 strong. Probably the force of Wheeler, reported at Gainesborough, has moved up and joined Pegram. Will it be safe to move Colonel Jacob with his force to Burkesville ~ A force larger than his is reported near Albany, on the route to Burkesville. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, May 3, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: I arrived at 10 oclock last evening; saw General Bosecrans, who could not de~ide immediately on the point submitted to him. Confer ence with him again to-day. Will have a final conference in presence of his corps commanders this evening, when a decision will be made. Would have reported before, but waited until I could give some in- formation. Will send dispatch as soon as decision is made. Will start back to-morrow. GEO. L. HARTSUFF, Major- General. MURFERESBOROUGH, TENN,, May 4, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: I have determined to bring one brigade (General Crooks) from Car- thage to the front as soon as your corps arrives there. How soon will that be I W. S. BOSECRAKS, Major-General Page 313 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. ~1 3 MTJRFREESBOROUGII, ililiay 4, 186312.45 p. m. (Received 1.40 p. in.) Major-General BURNSIDE: Conference just ended. It was decided that it would be most ad- vantageous to this army now for the Ninth Corps to come to Carthage immediately, via Glasgow, and relieve the force at Carthage. Reasons and particulars when I arrive. Can start from here at 2 p. m. to. morrow, and from Nashville the next morning. Please telegraph me immediately if any further information is to be obtained or given before starting. HARTSrFF. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, ]Jiliay 4, 1863. General GARFIELD: Prisoners reports of the enemys infantry at Fall Creek, on the Shel. byville pike, are confirmed. JOHN N. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier- General. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, ]Jfay 5, 1863. General GARFIELD: McCowns cavalry, about 500 strong, were~ seen near Versailles again last night. J. N. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier-General. CARTHAGE, VIA GALLATIN, May 5, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: The enemy made his appearance on the other side of the river on the bluffs this morning. They are also between this and Gallatin in bands. They attacked the mail going down on the 3d, but were driven off. Those on the opposite side seem to be in squads. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, llfurfreesborough, May 6, 1863. Major-General THOMAS, Gommanding Fourteenth Army Corps: The general commanding is of the opinion that the time is not quite ripe for sending a force to Bairds Mills, as suggested by General Steed- man. He directs you to hold the forces of Steedman and Wilder quiet, but keeping watch of the enemys movements, till General Crook can be relieved from Carthage to come through to the front, at which time the expedition can be made. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier4lenerat and Chief of Staff Page 314 314 KY., MID. AM) P. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. GENERAL HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMEERLAND, ORDERS, Murfreesborough, [Penn., ]Jiliay 6, 1863. General Orders, No. 78, current series, from these headquarters, are so amended as to allow four instead of three wall tents to the field and staff officers of each regiment of infantry, and five instead of three to the field and staff officers of every regiment of cavalry having twelve comnanies and the full number of field and staff officers prescribed for such an organization. Cavalry regiments having a less number of corn- parnes will be limited to the allowance prescribed by these orders for regime~its of infantry. By command of Major-General IRosecrans: C. GODDA1~D, Assistant Adjutant- General. TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, May 7, 1863. (Received 7.40 p. in.) General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: General Sheridan reports that he has news from Shelbyville to-day. The same condition of things there as heretofore. No arrivals. Polk in command. From the iRappahannock, Hill mortally wounded; Stone- wall Jackson wounded; the fight yet undecided. Ifrmumor says Forrest has made a large capture of our men in Alabama. A. MoD. MeCOOK. NASHVILLE, May 7, 1863. General GARFIELD: Elkins returned during the night from Wartrace, leaving there the night of the 4th. having visited all the headquarters. The active re- enforcements received by General Johnston ( brigades) estimated at about 9,000 or 10,000 in all. The inspector-general there informed him they were from Mobile. Small force at Tullahoma. Largest force at ~\Taptrace Considerable force at Manchester. General Johnstons en- tire force in and about Shelbyville mostly infantry. A force, all cavalry, at Columbia. General Cheatham, with his force, at Fosterville. Their sick and extra baggage, all think, sent to the rear by railroad. All think there will be a forward movement by them. It was reported on the 5th at Farmington that Forrest had cut off 1,700 Federal troops in Northern Alabama. Could not learn any particulars. Will send him up by first train to you, if you think it advisable. Will not go back any more. WM. TRUESDAIL. CAIRO, ILL., May 7, 18631.12 p. m. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have returned from an attempt to ascend the Tennessee River a second time. The water is too low for me to get above the mouth of Duck River. I am now repairing damages that my boats sustained in the dangerous navigation. My orders from Admiral Porter confine me to the Tennessee River, making no provision for the present condition of the water. I cannot communicate with the admiral without great delay. Will you advise me what course to pursue V ALFRED W. ELLET, Brigadier- General, Gomdg. Mississirri Marine Brigade Page 315 CHAP. XXXV.] CORhESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 315 DEPOT QUARTERMASTERS OFFICE, Louisville, Ky., ]Iiliay 7, 1863. Brig. Gen. M. C. MEIGs, Quartermaster- General, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: Your letter (signed by Capt. A. J. Perry, assistant quar- termaster), containing copy of dispatch sent me on 25th instant, is at hand. The dispatch was addressed to Colonel Swords, and received and examined by him. I have never sent a horse to Saint Lonis, and cannot imagine how General Rosecrans got any snch information. I have supplied General iRosecrans as fast as I could get horses. At times I was ordered to issue horses to regiments en route to General Itosecrans army, and also to regiments in Kentucky, but I have done the best I could to get horses. The purchase of horses at so many different points as Louisville, Ky., Lexington, Ky., Evansville, md., indianapolis, md., and Cincinnati and Gallipolis, Ohio, puts the Government iu competition with itself, and results in getting a poorer class of animals, and great delay in getting them also. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, W. JENKINS, Captain and Quartermaster U. S. Army. CINCINNATI, May 7, 1863. General ItOSECRANS: I cannot fully agree with your opinion concerning the best position of my Ninth Corps. ln respect to your proposed movement, I propose to move it to Jamestown Church, and to concentrate ~ corps in the vicinity of Glasgow, with a strong detachment at Tompkinsville. This will, I think, enable you to relieve all the force you could by the other movement, will protect your communication, and l)ermit me to carry out at the first favorable moment my original design on East Tennessee. How does the proposition suit you? A. E. BURNSIDE, ill ajor- General. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, May 7, 1863. General IROSECRANS, llliurfreesborough: I mean Jamestown, Tenn. The reasons for this move are these: That force could be moved either to Knoxville or assist your left either at McMinnville or Sparta, while ~ corps can be concentrated at Glasgow or Tompkinsville, or possibly at Scottsville, instead of Glasgow. Mylastdispatchwaswordedmorepositivethanlintended,inreference to my disagreement with your plan to move the Ninth Corps to Glas- gow. My disposition is to do you the most service possible~ and simply make this as a suggestion. Please answer fully. I will add that there is a very heavy pressure in favor of a movement on Knoxville. A. E. BULINSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 7, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief; On Tuesday morning last I caused the arrest of the Hon. C. L. Yal- landigham. He is now in this city, undergoing trial before a militar Page 316 316 KY., MID. AND E. TERN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. commission for uttering sedition.* Some trouble was caused in Dayton on account of his arrest, but all is now quiet. I hope to maintain per- fect order in other portions of this department. There is necessarily much excitement among his friends. We are all hoping to hear of the glorious and final success of General Elooker. A. B. BURNSII)E. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, May 8, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati: In your determination to support the authority of the Government and suppress treason in your department, you may count on the firm support of the Presideiit. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. MURFREESBOROUG-H, TENN., May 8, 18638.30 a. in. Hon. E. M. STANTON: Thanks for your dispatch.t It relieves our great suspense. What we want is to deal with their armies. Piece for piece is good when we have the odds. We shall soon be ready here to try that. W. S. IROSECIRANS, Major- General. MIJRFREESBOROU~H, May 8, 1863. Major-General BITRNSIDE: Jamestown is too remote to cover my flanks from cavalry, or even an infantry advance, by Liberty, aid in battle, or succor in disas- ter. Thomas, with two divisions, occupied McMinnville when Bragg passed throjugh Sparta. You would neither draw from the enemy nor strengthen me, unless you threaten or take Kingston and London Bridge from Jamestown. If you can get supplies to Jamestown, a raid at least should be made in the Tennessee Valley, and the column should go as near Chattanooga as possible, and return only when obliged. To go to Jamestown is to go to East Tennessee. If you can supply yourself, and go soon, go, but if it will talie time, let the Ninth come to Tomp- kinsville, and advance to Carthage; llartsuff to Scottsville or Glasgow. How soon could Ninth get to Jamestown ~ I can let you have nearly 2,000 pack-mules to move from West Point. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General. MURFREESBOROUGII, May 8, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: I have no answer to my dispatch of last night. If you decide on my plan, I can turn over to you my pack train. IRebel cavalry (Wheeler and Morgan) seem to be concentrating at Livingston. W. S. IROSECRANS. * The correspondence, orders, & c., relating to the arrest, trial, and banishment of Yallandigham, will appear in Series IlL tAnnouneing result of battle of Chaucellorsville and Stonemans raid. See Series I, Vol. XXV, Part II, p. 437 Page 317 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 317 CARTHAGE, May 8, 1863 (Via Gallatin, May 109.50 a. in.) Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: The rebels are in small squads on the other side of the river, and reported in force at Liberty. Cant some cavalry possibly be sent to me for the purpose of scouting the country? I am compelled to use all of my present cavalry for mail purposes. It is impossible to mount my men unless I have sufficient cavalry to make expeditions into tIle country, so as to capture horses. Can any furloughs be given in ac- cordance with the orders from the War Department? Dispatch in reference to Joseph Smith has been received, and will be executed ac- cordingly. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier-Gene~ral. SPEcIAl4 ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, No. 208. f Washington, May 8, 1863. I. Brig. Gen. August Willich, U. S. Volunteers, having been duly ex- changed, will report in person to Major-General Rosecrans, command- ing Department of the Cumberland, for assignment to duty. * * * * * * * By command of Major-General ilalleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUiWBERLAND, No. 104. Mu~.freesborough, Ienn., May 8, 1863. I. The baggage of officers and men of this army will be immediately reduced to the following limits: 1st. That of officers to the weight prescribed by Army Regulations for field service, viz: General officers, 125 pounds; field officers, 100 pounds; captains and subalterns, 80 pounds. The aggregate of all articles of per- sonal baggage, bedding, and mess equipage must not exceed this weight in the case of any officer. 2d. That of non-commissioned officers and privates will consist of the following articles, and none other: Oneblanket, 2 pairs of drawers, 2 pairs of socks, 1 jacket or blouse, 1 pair of trowsers, 1 pair of shoes or boots, and 1 hat or cap. No articles of clothing will be carried in the knap- sack, except such of the above as are not worn. II. Whenever a soldier is found straggling in the rear of his regi- ment or company, his knapsack will be inspected by the rear guard, and every article unauthorized in these orders will be immediately thrown out. III. All articles of baggage in the possession of either officers or men in excess of that allowed in these orders will be neatly packed and sent to Nashville for storage. Each package must be legibly marked with the name of the person, company, and regiment to which it belongs. The chief quartermaster of the department will see that proper storage is provided. Corps commanders will direct an officer from each division to accompany the extra baggage to Nashville and see it properly stored. IM. Officers of the inspector-generals department throughout th Page 318 318 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. army will report to the assistant inspector-general, at these headquar- ters, compliance or non-compliance with these orders. By command of Major-General iRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. MURFREESBOROUGU, May 8, 1863. Major-General BUJINSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: We have intelligence, which seems reliable, that Morgan and Wheeler have gone to Livingston, Putnam County, with their cavalry force. This is doubtless a horse-stealing trip into Kentucky. Yours, very truly, W. S. JIOSECRANS, ]Jlajor- General, Commanding. CINCINNATI, Allay 8, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: It is reported that Morgan and Wheeler are at Livingston, Tenn., supposed to be moving into Kentucky. Please inform Graham and Jacob, and tell them to keep their forces well in hand and guard care- fully all the fords on the river in their neighborhood. At what point are they now~ A. E. BURNSJDE, Aft~jor- General. CINCINNATI, Allay 8, 1863. General WILLCox, Lexington: It is reported that Morgan and Wheeler are at Livingston, Tenn., sup- posed to be moving into Kentucky. Please inform Carter. At what point is he now~ Tell him to keep his forces well in hand at Somerset, and to guard all the fords on the river in his neighborhood. A. E. BURINSIDE, Major- General. LEXINGTON, Allay 8, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: Your dispatch received. Have informed Carter, and ordered him to guard the crossings. Rebels returned to Manchester. Hamilton is ordered to go in search of them. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General. LEXINGTON, Ky., Allay 8, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: The following just received from Carter, from Somerset, Ky.: My whole force, except mveral guards and one company of the First Kentucky now in Clinton County or on return here, is camped close around this place. If roads do not soon improve, will have to send most of mounted force down the country to forage. Will endeavor in the morning to liave pasture forage for horses. Morgan will find some trouble in crossing river at present stage of water. CARTER 0. B. WJLLCOX, Aiiajor- General Page 319 Cnir. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETCUNION. 319 LEXINGTON, ]Jiay 8, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: The rains have broken up the roads so badly that Major Hamiltons operations will be difficult. A scout just in from Clinton reports but 83 rebels at and this side of Big Creek Gap. The force of 300 that passed up through Manchester mnst be making for the blue-grass region. I have ordered out all the cavalry toward llazle Green and Jackson, but the country is too wide, and the enemy can roam at large in that region. I think of leaving Williamsburg to Gilbert alone, and drawing back Major Hamilton as far as Richmond. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 61. 4 cincinnati, Ohio, May 8, 1863. I. All residents of the State of Kentucky, banished from their homes by any authority whatsoever, not higher than that of the department commander, by reporting at these headquarters on Saturday, May 9, at 12 in., or as soon thereafter as practicable, can obtain a hearing of their cases, and all against whom definite charges, supported by sufficient proof to warrant a trial, do not appear, will be allowed to return to their homes upon taking the oath of allegiance to the Government of the United States. II. The general order prohibiting the sale of fire-arms and ammuni- tion in this department is hereby rescinded. But all persons guilty of selling arms or ammunition to disloyal persons, or with a knowl- edge that they are to go into the hands of disloyal persons, will be arrested and tried for giving aid and comfort to the enemy. By command of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 9, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECX, General-in-Chief: Morgan and Wheeler are reported at Livingston, Tenn. Their ad- vance attempted to cross the Cumberland at Centre Point, near Burkes- ville, to-day, but were driven back by our forces at Tompkinsville with considerable loss. All quiet at other places. - .A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, May 9, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Would you like to give me the following East Tennessee regiments in exchange for nearly or quite an equal [number] of Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio regiments: Shelleys, Honks, C6opers, Rays, ~ Pick- ens, and Edwards ~ It this exchange can be made at once, and you can let me have the pack train, as you proposed, I think the move into East Tennessee can be made as soon as they arrive. Upon the answer to this, and the receipt of a dispatch from Washington, I think 1 can an- swer your dispatches definitely. How soon would you like to have the movement on Kingston and in the direction of Chattanooga made ~ A. E. BURNSIDE, Major-General Page 320 820 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. MEMPHIS, May 9, 1863. General ROSECRANS: My cavalry has met the enemy, reported 1,500 strong, at Tupelo, and driven them with severe loss to Okolona. It is said to be Forrests com- mand. Nothing from Streight. Grant Jzias defeated the enemy near Port Gibson, and holds the bridge over the Big Black, Smiles up. He is striking for the railroad bridge, and is reported to have destroyed it. S. A. HUIRLBUT, Major-General. LEXINGTON, May 10, 1863. Major-General BuRNSIDE: Following from Carter: SOMERSET. General WILLOOX: 1 telegraphed yesterday p. nI. that unless the road soon improves, it will be im- possible, without a great increase of transportation, to obtain forage for the mounted force here. I have alrea~y had to diminish forage to half-rations for horses, and am grazing a part of the mules without any corn. The ration of bread has been reduced one-third, and, even with that reduction, I fear we cannot get supplies. The road to Halls Gap is in a terrible condition. A working party has been sent out to repair it. The mules of the supply trains are young, and so thin that they cannot haul half a load, and I fear that, unless matters soon improve, cavalry and artillery horses will in a little while be in an equally bad condition. To-night we have not a single ration in commissary store at this post, although train will be in to-morrow. Will it not be better to move the greater part of the force back to a point near our supplies until roads improve, and the depot, say at Stanford, is well stocked with rations and forage I Either that step will be necessary or the transportation must be much in- creased. I have sent to learn if there is any truth in report of the rebels being in force at Livingston. CARTER, General. 0. B. WJLLCOX. [Indorsement.] I am sending forward transportation as fast as received from Cincin- nati, but there is great delay in receiving it from that point. W. W. VAN NESS, Chief Quartermaster. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CIJMBERLAND, Murfree.sborough, May 10, 1863. Brig. Gen. M. C. MEIGS, Quartermaster- General, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: Your letter of the 1st instant, on the subject of cavalry horses, was yesterday received and carefully considered. I thank you for taking pains to write so fully. I will explain to you with equal care the true state of the case in this army, for I find you have fallen into quite a number of errors on the subject. 1st. It is a fact that up to the 1st instant our total supply of cavalry horses were as follows: Cavalry horses on hand 6,537 Mounted infantry 1,938 Total 8,475 Less at least one-quarter not serviceable 2, 119 Making cavalry, mounted, not over 6,35 Page 321 Cn~r. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 321 But, when these troops are called out, we have at no time been able to turn out more than 5,000 for actual duty. The other cavalry horses reported by Colonel Taylor were escorts and orderlies, 2,028; unserv- iceable in Nashville, 975; total, 3,003. You will thus see that we have not the cavalry you suppose., We are using the most strenuous and unremitting efforts to increase in care of horses and the efficiency of this arm. 2d. But I must call your attention to the fact that this small cavalry force, effectively not half that required for a permanent garrison of in- fantry equal to that of this army, has to furnish pickets, scouts, couriers for Fort Donelson, Clarksville, Nashville, Gallatin, Carthage, and the front of this army from Franklin to this place, 28 miles. You may thus form some idea of the labor i~nposed on our cavalry, and how our horses are worn out so rapidly. 3d. As to the actual work of this arm, besides the routine labor, you will find it has had some expeditions or fight in mass nearly every week, and as yet without a single failure. 4th. As to expeditions, we have not a sufficiently strong cavalry force to drive that of the enemy to the wall, or to risk detachments for the enterprise of which you speak to the rear of the rebels. The one which I did send out nuder Colonel Streight, in spite of all my precautions, was captured by the superior cavalry force of the enemy detached from Grangers front at Franklin, where Van Dorn has still left about four to our one. 5th. As to forage, our want for long forage is owing to the impos- sibilities of getting transportation, either by water or rail. You must remember we are 220 miles from our 1~ase of supplies at Louisville. You may rely on it, I am fully alive to all you have suggested, and ask for nothing which I am not fully satisfied will be an ample economy to the service. Had we a cavalry force equal to that of the enemy, we would have commanded all the forage of the countrycommanded in- formation of its inhabitants, upon whose fears we, instead of they, would thus be able to operate. As to the comparative number of cavalry in our and other armies, I am sure you are mistaken as to Russia, at least, which has 80,000 reg- ular cavalry, while all the outpost, picket, and courier duty is done by irregular cavalry. But even were it otherwise, I know what cavalry would do for us here, and am not mistaken in saying that this great army would gain more from 10,000 effective cavalry than from 20,000 infantry. W. S. IROSECIRANS, Major- General, Commanding. WAR DEPARTMENT, May 10, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, ]IiurJre~sborough: The Richmond Examiner of the 7th instant contains a dispatch from General Bragg, dated at Tullahoma on the 5th, which states that Colo- nel Streight, with his whole force, 1,600 strong, were captured, with their rifles, horses, and side-arms, by General Forrest, near Rome, in Georgia, after five days marching and fighting. The President desires to know whether you have any information on the subject, and whether Colonel Streight belongs to your command. Please answer immediately. EDWIN N. STANTON, Secretary of War. 21 ii R.VOL XXIII, PT I Page 322 322 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. MURFRI~ESBOROUG11, TnT~1N., ]Jftty 10, 1863. Hon. E. M. STANTON, & cretary of War: Yesterday we received a Chattanooga Rebel, giving substantially the same news about Colonel Streight as that your dispatch mentions from the Richmond Examiner. I immediately wrote to the Adjutant-General of the Army an account of the compositiou of the forces, the objects of the expedition, Colonel Streights instructions, and the latest authentic intelligence fr& m it through General llurlbut, and forwarded the whole, with a copy of the Chattanooga Rebels statement, by mail. I fear Streight has been captured before effecting the main purpose of the expeditionto cut the railroad connectioffs effectually between Atlanta and Chattanooga. It was deemed feasible and vastly important to us. I hope the effect of the attempt may, in part at least, compensate us for the loss by subtracting rebel troops from our front to guard their rear. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. CARTHAGE, May 10, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: A man just in from East Tennessee reports Bragg being re-enforced by troops from the east. Boats arouud here safe last night. Is it the intention to permit one of the small guuboats to remain here ~ I will send it down to convoy these boats to Nashville. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. CARTHAGE, VIA GALLATIN, May 10, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: I have just received reliable information that Wheeler has gone to- ward McMinnville with his whole force, and that M6rgan has gone to Sparta. Also some persons from Taflahoma say that Bragg is being re-enforced from the east and south both. GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMEERLAND, No. 135. f Murfreesborough, May 10 [13 l], 1863. * * * * * * * XIV. Maj. Gen. John M. Schofield, commanding Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps, having been assigned by the President to the command of the Department of the Missouri, is relieved from further duty in this department. XV. Brig. Gen. J. M. Brannan is hereby relieved from the command of the First Division, Twenty-first Army Corps, and is assigned to the command of the Third Division, Fourteenth Army Corps. XVI. Brig. Gen. T. J. Wood is hereby relieved from the command of the post of Nashville, and will assume command of the First Division, Twenty-first Army Corps. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: II. TIIRALL, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General Page 323 CHAr. Xxxv.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 323 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMJ3ERLAND, ]Jfurfreesborough, May 11, 18637.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. THOMAS L. CRITTENDEN: The general commai~ding directs you, in accordance with the verbal instructions given you by him this evening, to send General Palmers division to Cripple Creek, to observe the movements of the enemy. General Palmer will go out in person, and assume command of his whole division, and fix his headquarters at Cripple Creek. Instruct him to observe closely the movements of the enemy, and, in case of an attack, to draw General ilazens command back to Cripple Creek, destroying the works at iReadyville, especially that portion of them which com- mands the road toward Cripple Creek. He should examine the roads by which he can effect a safe retreat in case of an attack. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD, Brigadier- General and Chief of Staff. MURFREESBOROUGH, ]Jiay 11, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: Our information to-day is that most of Morgans force has come down into the Peninsula again, and are near Alexandria. Please telegraph particulars as soon as possible. W. S. ROSECRANS, ]lfajor- General. MURFREESEOROTJGH, TENN., ]JiEay 11, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: Is the Ninth Corps moving on Carthage? How soon will it be there? Please answer immediately. Yours, very truly, W. S. ROSECRANS, ]Jliajor- General, Commanding D~partment. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 11, 1863. General ROSECRANS, ]liurfreesborouyh, Tenn.: Our people have had a fight on Greasy Creek with Morgan. Results not fully known. Will telegraph you again as soon as I learn them. Am delayed in giving you an answer by not hearing from Washington. Hope to hear to-day. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DISTRICT OF COLUMBUS, SIXTH DIVISION, SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Columbus, Ky., liLay 11, 1863. Maj. Gen. STEPHEN A. HURLEUT, Commanding Sixteenth Army Corps, ]Ifemphis, Tenn.: GENERAL: I have the honor to report, that in obedience to Special Orders, No. 93, Headquarters Sixteenth Army Corps, 1863, the Twenty- first Regiment Missouri Volunteer Infantry, Col. David Moore com- manding, and six companies of the Thirty-fourth Regiment Wisconsi Page 324 324 KY.; MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALK, AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Infantry, drafted militia, Maj. George II. Waither commanding, are embarked on steamer Sultana for Memphis, with orders to report to your headquarters. The Twenty-first Regiment Missouri Infantry is an old regiment, and its colonel a gallant, earnest officer, who lost a leg on the battle-field of Shiloh. The Thirty-fourth Regiment Wisconsin In- fantry has done heavy artillery duty, and is well drilled in that service. Four companies of the Thirty-fourth Regiment Wisconsin Infantry are detailed to serve the heavy guns in different forts in my districtone company at Columbus, in Fort Quinby, two at Cairo, and one at Pa- ducab, and as I have no artillerists to serve the guns in the forts, I would respectfully request your permission that they may continue on their present duty. The colonel, Fritz Anneke, is under arrest, and awaiting trial before general court-martial. Knowing the proclivities of the people of Kentucky between the Ten- nessee and Mississippi Rivers, and being aware that their sympathies are, with few exceptions, with the South and the rebellion, I consider it unsafe for my district, and particularly Paducah, to again evacuate Fort ileiman, which is certainly the key to the above portion of Kentucky and a point also controlling the Kentucky and Tennessee State line. Under these considerations, I concluded to withdraw for the present my infantry force from Clinton, and make it a cavalry outpost. Inclosed I submit section 9, Special Orders, No. 109, current series, from these headquarters,* giving instructions to Maj. Gustav Heiurichs, Fourth Regiment Missouri Volunteer Cavalry, who takes command at Clinton. Requesting your sanction to these my arrangements, I have the honor to remain, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, ASBOTH, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, May 12, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: The Fourth Missouri Cavalry is now at Columbus doing no active service. Will you please order it to report here for duty, as we are very much in need of cavalry in this department ~ I propose to send some of mine to Rosecrans. Our cavalry had a sharp fight with a por- tion of Morgans force on the south side of the Cumberland, opposite Rowena, yesterday. Our loss was about 30 the enemy lost about 100. We threw our advanie posts as far as Cumberland Ford yesterday. A E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, May 12, 1863. General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: The Ninth Corps started for Carthage some days ago, but was halted, with its advance at Columbia. I concluded to halt it owing to my de- termination to concentrate the forces of llartsuff near that place, with a view of making a very important move for both you and myself. A messenger will leave here this evening or to-morrow morning with dispatches for you. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. - ~Omitted Page 325 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 325 CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 12, 1863. General IIARTSUFF, Louisville, Ky.: Have full consultation with General Boyle, and report to me this even- ing, if possible, how soon you can cbncentrate 5,000 men at Carthage, leaving the posts along the railroad secure. Let me hear any ideas you may have about consolidation. A. E. BIJRNSIDE, Major- General. LOUISVILLE, May 12, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: Mixed force of 5,000 infantry and cavalry, about equally divided, with two batteries, might reach Carthage, General Boyle says, in seven days, by evacuting Lebanon and Glasgow, and weakening the forces at Mun- fordville and Bowling Green, reported to be already too small by Major Simpson, chief engineer. District return shows an aggregate present and absent of 20,500, and an aggregate for duty present of only 10,300. This includes brigade of Ninth Corps, with an aggregate present and absent of 5,300, and present for duty of 1,600. Dont know amoant of transportation the troops will have nor of supplies at Glasgow nor Galla- tin, the first being the place they would take supplies from for the march, if enough there; the next where supplies for Carthage must come from. Am uncertain, from dispatch, whether you intend me to go to Carthage or not. Generals Manson and ilobson would go with command. Since my arrival have obtained all the information l)ossible, but have issued no orders. No orders yet issued by you authorizing me to do so. Ap. pearances indicate the impracticability of consolidating many troops at any single point within this district until troops are raised in Kentucky to replace them. Dont know numbers or condition of troops in State outside this district. Troops at Carthage are too far from railroad above Franklin to protect it. Points on the railroad could not, therefore, be so much weakened to concentrate there as at Glasgow or some point nearer railroad. If brigade oI~ Ninth Corps is not available, troops taken from Munfordville will have to be replaced immediately. Will write more fully if you are not coming here, and desire it. Please inform me, and whether information here given is sufficient and satisfactory. GEG. L. IIAIRTSUFF, Major-General of Volunteers. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 12, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: Carter, with entire force, is at Somerset. One division of the Ninth Corps is at Middleburg, the other at Lancaster. Carters force is ample to take care of Morgan if he should cross in that neighborhood. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General. MAY 12, 1863. General WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky.: The following dispatch just received from Boyle: General Manson telegraphs that Colonel Jacob has arrived with all his forces at Colnmbia. He thinks but few rebels left at the Narrows. Morgan has left for som Page 326 326 KY., MID. AND B. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CuAP. XXXV. other place. Colonel Morrison has heard that Morgan will advance by way of Greens burg and Campbellsville. If he does, he will get badly whipped. Our loss will not exceed 30. Rebel loss supposed to be over 100. I fear that Morgan will attempt a raid by way of Somerset, unless you have forces there. I have ordered Manson to send scouts to ascertain position of the enemy. BOYLE. Please say to Gilbert that I am much obliged for his reconnaissance; it was a very important one. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, May 12, 1863. Commander PENNOCK, Corndg. Naval squadron, Cairo: The following dispatch has just been received from the Secretary of War: Captain Pennock has been authorized to purchase and fit out three light-draught vessels for service, as requested in your telegram of the 9th instant. The necessity of the service requires that these vessels be fitted out at once. The garrisons on the Upper Ohio are threatened, and the people are in much alarm, and it is necessary that these boats that are now here or others should be kept there. A. E. BUIRNSIDE. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, No. 213. Washington, May 12, 1863. * * * * * * * V. Brigadier-General ilascall, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby assigned to duty with the command of Major-General Buruside, U. S. Volunteers. By command of Major-General ilalleck: E. P. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. MEMPHIS, May 12, 186311 oclock. General iROSECRANS: Streight is undoubtedly captured in Georgia. There is a strong move- ment south from Decatur, toward Tupelo and Okolona. Grant sends word that the enemy expect re-enforcements from Tullahoma. He has taken Jackson before this. I am sending sixteen regiments to him by river. If Johnston is permitted to throw a force on Grant, the conse- quences may be disastrous. IIURLBUT. - IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, May 12,.18639.40 p. m. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, GhiefofSta~f: GENERAL: A large body of cavalry fired on the pickets near liar- peth this morning, and immediately retired. Our cavalry pursued a Page 327 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 327 far as Jordans Store. One of my spies reports ten pieces of artillery and some infantry at bits Cross-Roads. I doubt it. I will endeavor to learn the facts. Respectfully, SCHOFIELD. [Indorsement.] All quiet at La Yergne this evening. KELLY, Captain and Signal Officer. WASHINGTON, ]Jfay 13, 186311 a. m. Major-General ROSECRANS, ]liurfreesborough, Tenn.: Maj. Gen. J. M. Schofield having been appointed by the President to the command of the Department of the Missouri in place of Major. General Curtis, you will relieve him from duty in your command, and direct him to immediately repair to Saint Louis, Mo. H. W. HALLECK. TRIUNE, May 13, 186310.15 p. m. Brigadier-General GARFIELD: Colonel Brownlow has just returned from the reconnaissance beyond Eagleville. There has been little or no advance of the enemy. Crews cavalry brigade advance has moved up on the Chapel Hill pike, or as far as Holts Cross-Roads. There is no infantry this side of Chapel Hill, and little, if any, artil- lery. I gather this latter from a rebel lieutenant who deserted them and came in to-day. He has a brother in our army, and I believe his state. ments to be reliable. He says Braggs whole army is undoubtedly ad- vancing, but slowly, and intrenching as they go. SCHOFIELD. WASHINGTOrI, ]Jiay 13, 18631 p. m. Major-General BUENSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: I have several times requested General Curtis to send cavalry to General Rosecrans, but he says he cannot do so without endangering his own position. While General Grants cavalry is mostly employed in distant raids, I cannot venture to take any from him. H. W. HALLECK. LOUISVILLE, May 13, 186311.05 p. m. Major-General BURNSIDE: Colonel Jacob has received letter by flag of truce from Morgan, dated near Monticello, in answer to one sent by Jacob, requesting that Jacob send ambulance for wounded officers. General Manson regarded it as a trick to ascertain strength and position, and ordered that they be not allowed within picket line or to hold commnnication with citizens or soldiers. Shall the ambulance be sent for wounded ~ Please answer. J. T. BOYLE, Briqadier- General Page 328 328 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQR S. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 66. (Jincinnati, Ohio, May 13, 1863. I. As frequent applications are made to these headquarters that the wives and families of persons in arms against the United States Gov- ernment may be a~1mitted within our lines, it is hereby declared, for the information of all concerned, that no such applications will be favora- bly entertained, and, moreover, that such wives and families as may now be within the lines will be removed as speedily as possible. When sick- ness may render an immediate removal impracticable or dangerous, a proper discretion will be exercised by the officer having the duty of such removals in charge. II. All persons, deserters or others, coming from the lines of the rebel army, are required to report themselves at once to the nearest command- ing officer. Persons of this character who are found within the lines of the United States army, who have not made the above report, will be arrested as spies. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assi8tant Adjutant- General. CINCINNATI, May 14, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Lieutenant-Colonel Loring, my inspector-general, carries dispatches to you. Will you please direct that he be taken to your headquarters from Nashville on extra engine if he should miss the regular train? Our people on the Cumberland, opposite Somerset and at the mouth of Greasy Creek, have been skirmishing with some of Morgans men for two or three days, and it is now reported that Morgan, Wheeler, and Pegram are getting ready to cross at those places with a heavy force of cavalry and infantry; sixteen regiments in all. I think the number exaggerated. Will telegraph you soon again. A. E. BURNSIDE. NASHVILLE, May 14, 1863. (Received 2.30 a. in.) Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Information by George R. Robinson is that Generals Wheeler and Morgan were at Lexington [Livingston ?J, Tenn., preparing to invade Kentucky with 15,000 to 20,000 cavalry and three batteries of light ar- tillery. Their object is to burn the railroad bridges on Louisville and Nashville Railroad and tear up track; by this means to get provisions and forage. Can report but little from Braggs army, except that it has been considerably re-enforced by troops from Mississippi and Vir- ginia, and also by conscripts. He says that Chattanooga is occupied by one brigade, under General Helm, from 3,000 to 4,000 strong. This post is well and skillfully fortified and mounted wish heavy cannon. E. Kirby Smith was in command at Knoxville, with sixteen regiments of infantry and some cavalry. With drawings of fortifications and works, with farther particulars, he will report to you in person by first train. H. W. FYFFE, Captain of Police. FRANKLIN, May 14, 1863. General ROSECRANS: There are two regiments of cavalry near Peytonsville, and one regi- ment of infantry at Bethesda. The rebel pickets in our front ar Page 329 CRAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 329 stronger and more vigilant than ever. One of myreliable spies reports one brigade of rebel infantry at Poplar Grove. What this all means I am unable to discover. The cavalry will feel them to-morrow. G. GIRANGER, Major- General. NASHVILLE, May 14, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: Everything is being done to push the defenses to completion as rap- idly as possible. The work at Breutwood is finished. Cannot the Four- teenth Michigan Volunteers, of my brigade, be moved in here ~? JAMES D. MORGAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. TRIUNE, May 14, 186310 p. m. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland: GENERAL: Our cavalry met that of the enemy in considerable force near College Grove this afternoon. Their main cavalry force is un- doubtedly some distance this side of Chapel Hill. I have no late, news concerning the enemys infantry. Respectfully, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. HDQRS. FOURTH DIv., Somerset, Ky., May 14, 1863. Brig. Gen. T. WELSH, Comdg. First Div., Ninth Army Corps: GENERAL: My scouts, just in from vicinity of Greasy Creek, report that the citizens there were expecting the rebels in Jamestown, Ky. Small parties of rebels cross the river occasionally, near Greasy Creek, to steal cattle, & c. A loyal citizen from south side of Cumberland, near Mill Springs, reports that the rebel pickets left banks of river, from near th2 t place, this morning in haste, stating they were falling back to Albany, where they expect to make a stand. It looks as if they were concentrating at some point below, perhaps with a view to cross the river in force. It is reported the enemy has a large force of cavalry and about eight regi- ments of infantry. I do not know whether these reports are correct or not, but I give them to you in order that you may guard against surprise. Respectfully, your obedient servant, S. P. CARTER. LEXINGTON, Ky., May 14, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: The following dispatch just received from Carter, in answer to a long one from myself: My object is to attack the rebels if they attempt crossing in my front. Cannot the troops advance from Columbia, and attack them at Jamestown, before they get all their troops over? My opinion is that the movement is got up to check your advanc Page 330 330 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. into East Tennessee, from Somerset. Your dispatch received. Have just heard that Wheelers. Morgans, and Pegrams forces are on the Monticello road, advancing within l~ miles of Wait~borough. It is said they have sixteen regiments, and are scat- tered over 7 miles of the road. Their pickets at the river have been strengthened this p. m. I have ordered additional forces toward the river. Directions have been given to look out for right flank. The danger now seems to be in our front. have sent scouts across the river for news. We have no additional facilities for crossing. River not yet fordable. Troops have four days supply, and three days in store. A train is loaded for to- morrow. Beef contractors have failed in their duties. Forage not abundant. Road to Mid- dleburg pretty fair, except bad hills. LaterHave only passed by battery with help of infantry. Will call on General Welsh, if I see a probability of being attacked by superior force. (Same Burnside to Boyle.) S. P. CARTER. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General. LEXINGTON, Ky., May 14, 1863. Major-General BTJRNSIDE, Gommanding Deparhnent of the Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio: The following is a statement of locality and effective strength of troops in the District of Central Kentucky: Organization. Locality. Third Brigade, First Division, Ninth Army Corps Hnstonvile* 1,588 Batteries L and M, 3d U. S. Artillery Middlehurg* 102 45th Pennsylvania Volunteers. - - - - - - - do* 500 Second Brigade, First Division, Ninth Army Corps ---. Somerset 1, 657 Gilberts brigade Mount Vernon 2,544 Runkles brigade Somerset 1,447 One hundred and third Ohio do 90 2d East Tennessee do . 588 1st Kentucky Cavalry do 362 Cavalry Brigade (Wolfords) do 947 Battery D. 1st Rhode Island Artillery. do 103 Wilder (Indiana) battery do 130 First Brigade, Second Division, Ninth Army Corps. - -. Lancaster 1,850 Second Brigade, Second Division, Ninth Army Corps do 1,689 2d Independent Battery, Pennsylvania Volunteers do . 117 Battery L, 2d New York Artillery do . - 84 21st Massachusetts Mount Sterling 48th Pennsylvania Lexington 337 65th Illinois do .425 Battery E, 2d U. S. Artillery do 120 19th Ohio Battery 121 5th East Tennessee Cavalry 97 118th Ohio Cynthiana and along the railroaL. 752 Four companies 2d Maryland Paris 138 15th Indiana Battery do 110 Six companies 2d Maryland Frankfort 152 1~th Kentucky Cavalry Owingaville - 242 Section Marshs howitzer battery ~ - - - 14 14th Kentucky Cavalry Mount Sterling, Irvine, and Proctor, - - .. - or Manchester. 1st East Tennessee Battery - - Nicholaiville 121 1st East Tennes8ee Camp Dick Rohinson 616 8th Tennessee 357 1st Battalion 9th Ohio volunteer Cavalry Manchester 251 * See Willeox to Bnrnside, May 15, p. 333. t Reported with First Brigade, Second Division. ~No report. 0. B. WILLUOX, Brigadier- General Page 331 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 331 CINCINNATI, May 14, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington, Ky.: Your dispatch just received. Sturgis should be kept ready to move from Stanford to Halls Gap in case Carter should be forced to fall back on that road. I have notified General Boyle, aud have directed him to prevent the crossings near Jamestown, if possible. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTJ~EENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, May 15, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: I send the bearer, Lieutenant-Colonel Loring, my assistant inspector. general, to you, with verbal dispatches. He is oue of my most faithful and intelligent officers, in whom you can place the most perfect confi- dence. In consequence of his retiring disposition, he will bear talking to, in order to give him a chance to explain himself. Please consult with him fully, and command him fully. Remember that I, like your- self, am trying to do all in my power for the good of the public service, and, if circumstances render it necessary for us to meet down below the Kentucky line, you are in command there, and the conventionalities of rank, & c., must not be regarded. You having the largest command, must command. There is no man in the Union under whom I would serve sooner than you. I will not write more, because you know my views personally well enough, and Colonel Loring can tell you all. May God bless you, and grant that we may soon meet in victory and peace, or in either, but in any event in friendship and in love of country. Yours, sincerely, A. E. BUENSIDE. HEADQUARTERS, Loui8ville, May 15, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: General Manson telegraphs he does not believe Morgan is crossing the river to come to Jamestown. His scouts report all quiet. I have directed him to prevent his crossing. I do not believe Morgan has over 3,000 men. One of my scouts sends report that General Wheeler moved to Jamestown, Tenn., in the direction of Knoxville, and another scout reports Humphrey Marshall this side of Cumberland Gap. I do not credit these reports, and think them conjecturalbased on information of citizens. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier-General. LEXINGTON, Ky., May 15, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: The following is forwarded for your information: SOMERSET, Ky. General WILLOOX: From Smiths Shoals, above the mouths of Smiths Fork, to Richardson, 4 miles below Robertsport, a distance of some 30 miles, our guards protect these and the fords an Page 332 332 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. ferries at intermediate points, as Stigalis, Waitsborough, Newells, mouth of Fishing Creek, Harts, Mill Springs, and iRobertsport. The river hill prevents communication in most cases between one point and another by direct routes, so that if troops are broken into detachments they could not be concentrated on the river without great loss of time. I tbink it will be best to keep pretty strong guard along the river, and hold the main force at some central point, where the enemy ~~an be met and defeated. Your plan of keeping rebels from crossing can be carried out by increasing the force here, so that after being divided it will still be strong enough to defend itself. I think this is the strategic point, but guards should be kept about month of Greasy Creek and fords in that vicinity. CARTER. 0. B. WILLUOX, Brigadier- General. CINCINNATI, May 15, 1863. General ROSECRANS, ]Iifurfreesborough, Tenn.: The following just received from Carter: Major [William N.] Owens, First Division Cavalry, now stationed at MilL Springs, has just advised me that he has reliable information of Breckinridges command being camped at Steubenville, 5 miles this side of Monticello, and tbree brigades of cavalry between that place and Waitsborough. Matters begin to look squally. Has Colonel Jacob returned to Greasy Creek? Some troops should be there or at Jamestown, if I should be forced to fall back. CARTER. I am not inclined to believe this. Have you any information in regard to it? A. E. BURNSIDE, Major. General. CINCINNATI, May 15, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky., ant General WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky.: The following has just been received from IRosecrans: All our news up to last night goes to show that Breckinridge, with his command, is at Wartrace. We have had scouts in every day from south and east. Possibly this is a canard on Carter, that W. H. [W. C. P.] Breckinridge, colonel of cavalry, is there. ROSECRANS. A. E. BUIRNSJDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, ]llay 15, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky., and General WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky.: The following is just received from IRosecrans: One of our scouts says Wheeler, Morgan, and Pegram are all concentrating near Livingston, which seems to confirm your news. They have most probably 5,000 or 6,000 men. ROSECRANS. A. E. BURXSJDE, Major-General Page 333 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. Lieutenant-Colonel RICHMOND: LOUISVILLE, May 15, 1863. The following is a statement of troops in this district [Western Ken- tucky], the locality and number present for duty: Present Organization. Locality, for duty. 25th Michigan Louisville 600 Heushaws [Illinois] battery (six guns) do 143 63d Indiana. ew Haven 390 50th Ohio Muidraughs Hill 390 16th Kentucky Lebanon 511 20th Kentucky do 275 Morrisons brigade Green River 2,975 9th Kentucky Cavalry do 700 12th Kentucky Cavalry do 550 11th Kentucky Cavalry do 450 24th Indiana Battery (six guns) do 135 27th Kentucky Munfordvllle 325 13th Kentucky do 390 lId Kentucky do 250 80th Indiana do 365 6th Michigan Battery (four guns) do 120 5th Indiana Cavalry Glasgow 1,000 14th Illinois Cavalry do 800 107th Illinois do 700 Renwicks Illinois battery (four guns) do 95 111th Ohio Bowling Green 750 23d Michigan do 600 11th Kentucky Mounted do 476 12th Kentucky do 450 34th Kentucky do 375 One battalion 8th Kentucky Cavalry do 300 20th Indiana Battery (four guns) do 90 27th Kentucky Russellville 300 One battalion 8th [Kentucky] Cavalry do 300 3d Kentucky Cavalry Hopkinsville 350 91st and 65t)a Indiana Henderson 1,135 J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. LEXINGTON, May 15, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: In the dispatch sent last night, giving disposition of troops, there was a mistake made in the Third Brigade, First Division. The Forty-fifth is at finstonville; the other three regiments of the brigade are at Middlebnrg, with Edwards battery. I have communicated with General Carter in regard to Halls Gap. There is probably no stronger position between Stanford and Somerset, but it can be turned on the one hand by road froln Somerset to Crab Orchard, on the other by road to Tnrnersville. Sturgis can cover the Crab Orchard road, and Welsh the Turnersville road. Carter says: As rebel pickets line the whole south bank of river, it is difficult to get informa- tion. I have scouts out now, and have ordered others out this morning. In Grigsbys rebel regiment are many who are from this and adjoining counties. They know all the roads, and will be sure to take advantage of them. If we cross the river, a pontoon bridge is needed. CARTER. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General. CHAP. XXXV.] 33 Page 334 334 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Triune, May 16, 18636 p. m. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland: GENERAL: I have additional news of the movements of a consider- able force of infantry and artillery from Shelbyville in this direction. It is said they are near Eagleville, but this needs confirmation. Respectfully, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier. General, Commanding. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, ]Jfay 16, 1863. Brigadier-General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Department of the Cumberland: GENERAL: It is reported that one division of infantry is at Middle- ton and one near Unionville the former under Cheatham and Smith, the latter under Withers. They arrived here on the 12th, and were seen there on the 14th. This report comes in pretty reliable shape. The impression among the people in front of our lines seems to be that the rebel army is advancing. The following report was received immediately after the above: Colonel Crews, commanding a rebel cavalry brigade, and three colonels command- ing cavalry regiments, came up to near Harpetli this morning, with about 400 men. They appear to be examining the crossings of the Harpeth above and below Chapel Hill pike. They were followed by our cavalry to near Jordans Store, where Crews brigade appears to be. KELLY, Signal Officer. iRespeetfally, J. M. SCHOFIELD, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CINCINNATI, JAifay 16, 1863. General WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky.: In your dispatch from Gilbert yesterday, Gilbert speaks of sending a small force to invest the rebels abont Cumberland Gap and captnring their pickets. Ask him if he thinks if I should send him an organized force of say 5,000 men, he could proceed iu the same way and capture and hold the Gap itself. Let him think of it and answer. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., Aliay 17, 186310 p. in. Major.General HALLECK: The Chattanooga Rebel, of the 16th, says General Grant has Jackson. Took it after a days hard fight. W. S. ROSECRANS, Jliliajor. General Page 335 Cuir. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 335 MURFREESBOROIJGH, , 1863il p. m. (Received May 1712 p. in.) Brigadier-General BOYLE: We have satisfactory information that all the rebel cavalry but Mor- gan and Pegtam have their headquarters at MeMiunville, and I do not believe a word about Buckn~r with 12,000 or 20,000 men being at Beaver Creek. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major-General. CORINTH, May 17, 1863. Maj. Gen. W S. ROSECRANS: Surgeon Abbott, of the Eightieth Illinois Infantry, has arrived here with some of the wounded from Tuscumbia. The wounded I left there were badly treated, and one William Coope~, of Roddey~s command, shot a prisoner by the name of John Chambers, who died of his wound. He was a member of the Alabama cavalry, and had just been discharged. It was a cold-blooded murder. Forrest followed Streight with about 2,000 men. In the last fight Streights fire was very slack, and it is thought his ammunition was short. He whipped Forrest in every fight except the 1a~t, and was captured within 12 miles of Rome; his advance within 5. His wounded are being well cared for. They were left in strong Union settlements. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS SIXTEENTH ARMY CORPS, Memphis, Tenn., May 17, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn: Grant has whipped Gregg and Walker at Raymond. His cavalry have occupied Jackson by a circuit. Joe Johnston arrived at Jackson on the 13th, and is now between Jackson and Yicksburg. Heavy re- enforcements are expected by the enemy from Tennessee and Virginia. If they come, they will be too heavy for General Grant, as the garrison at Yicksburg is not less than 35,000. You may rely upon the above, as it comes from my best scout just from Yicksburg. Two thousand cavalry are now opposite Savannah, shelling the woods; about 4,000 near Okolona, and nearly the same force at Panola. A- movement in considerble force is no doubt being made from the enemy in your front toward Vicksburg. The re~enforcements that had arrived when my spy left were from Charleston. It is the intention to crush Grant out before he can be re-enforced, and then turn back upon you. I have sent full report to General Halleck. Banks has taken Alexandria. S. A. HURLBUT, Major- General. MAY 17, 1863. Major-General HALLECK, General-in-Chief, Washington: The following dispatches have just been received from the front: Gilbert telegraphs to General Wilicox that a citizen from Knox County, Kentucky, says that he has news that twenty-four rebel regiments are concentrating at Morris Page 336 336 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. town for a move into Kentucky, and that another force, under General Buckner, is at Clinton; that a brigade will occupy Williamsburg in a few days; that this news is direct from Colonel Palmers headquarters in Clinton. WILLCOX. General Boyle telegraphs: That Manson says Jacob reports he has heard from good authority that Buckner is at or near Beaver Creek, on south side of the river, with from 12,000 to 20,000 men. Is throwing bridge across river. Jacob believes it to be so. Have directed him to send a party to ascertain if this is true. BOYLE. If these reports prove true, we shall have our hands full with the force we have here, but we will do the best we can. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. (Same to Bosecrans.) MAY 17, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: Notify Manson, Hobson, and Judali that they must watch the move- ments of the enemy very closely, keeping their scouts well out, and gain all the information they can, even at the expense of a few of their men. If the enemy advance, they must impede his progress as much as possi- ble, making no precipitate retreat. Send frequent information to these headquarters, and I will see that all available help is sent you, if they come in on your lines. Let the troops in the rear keep two or three days cooked rations on hand, and be ready to march. Judali and Graham should keep their empty trains in the rear as much as possible, so as to be unincumbered. Make arrangements with the railroad company to transfer troops from one point to another on the shortest notice. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. (Willcox ordered to give same instructions to Carter and Gilbert.) GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 113. Miurfreesborough, fIenn., May 17, 1863. I. To economize our cavalry, brigade and division commanders will detail from the infantry regiments under their command: For orderlies at brigade headquarters, 1 non-commissioned officer and 4 privates; for orderlies at division headquarters, 1 non-commissioned officer and 9 pri- vates. The quartermasters department will provide horses, and the ordnance department equipments, to mount men so detailed. To each corps commander will be assigned one company of cavalry for escort and orderly duty. All other cavalry in this army will report at once to the chief of cavalry for duty. II. Cavalry ~,rand guards and vedettes will, when the army is to- gether, be posted and controlled by the chief of cavalry, with appro- bation of the general commanding. When cavalry is serving with detached infantry commands, cavalry pickets will be controlled by the senior cavalry officer present, with the approval of the commanding officer of the post, expedition, or detachment. The cavalry commander will detail an officer of the day for each cavalry brigade, who will report daily to the infantry commander whose front he is to cover, for such orders as he may wish to give; he will then post his guard, after whic Page 337 CHAP. XXXV.J CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 337 he will report fully to his cavalry commander the orders he has received and the disposition of his guard; he will be responsible for the vigilance of the cavalry pickets under his control, and will order such patrols as may be necessary and his force will permit; he will have a perfect un- derstanding with the infantry officer of the day, informing him of the position of his guards, and arranging for speedy communication with the infantry pickets, in case of alarm. III. Cavalry guards will not be allowed to straggle in and out of the infantry pickets, but will be required to present themselves at the picket line in a body, and to march in regular order to and from their camps and stations. IV. Cavalry officers of the day, wearing the insignia of their office, will be permitted to pass the pickets by day and (giving the countersign) by night. Officers of the day should always carry the order placing them on duty as such upon their persons during their tour of duty. By command of Major.General Rosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjntant- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, May 18, 186311 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Major-General ROSECRANS, Afurfreesborough, Tenn.: Dispatches just received say that General Joe Johnston, with a con- siderable force, has left Tennessee to re-enforce Yicksburg. To cover this movement, the enemy will probably threaten an advance, and attempt raids into Kentucky and Tennessee. The best way to coun- teract this is to concentrate your forces and advance against the enemy in Tennessee, moving, if possible, in such a manner as to threaten East Tennessee. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., ]Jfay 18, 18633.35 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-In-Chief: We have scouts in every directionon the enemys flanks, and through his army right and leftand, according to our best informa- tion, no considerable force of any arm, and none of infantry, have left our front. How reliable is the information you telegraph ~l We have information, through the rebel papers, of the moving of perhaps two or three brigades, not to exceed three, west from Charleston. The forces moving are, no doubt, from Charleston and Savannah. - W. S. ROSECRANS, Itliajor- General. MURPREESBOROUGH, TENN., May 18, 18638 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Since your dispatch of 11 to-day, we have arrivals from Shelby- ville. They know of no officer leaving Shelbyville, except McC& wn, 22 B BVOL XXIII~ PT I Page 338 338. KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. who was said to be ordered to another command, and no troops, save four car-loads passing Chattanooga. Files of Southern papers report two or three brigades of troops from South and North Carolina having gone to Jackson, Miss.; say they do not know who is to command there, but it cannot be Beauregard, as no high officer would be detached from a corps to command two or three brigades. We shall watch them closely, bat do not think it good policy to advance on them for a few days without further movement or advices from them. Their papers confirm our report of their army organization here, saying it shows the perfection of our espionage. Since the above was written we have information which makes it probable that there were three trains, instead of three cars, and that two, and perhaps three, brigades of MeCowns division have left. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MEMPHIS, Ma~y 18, 186311 p. m. Major-General ROSECRANS: Spies just in at Corinth from Selma and Meridian report the whole line of the Mobile and Ohio Railroad to Okolona heavily guarded; 4,000 troops,under Ruggles, at Okolona; no force at Columbia; Roddey re- eiiforced at Courtland; part of cavalry at Clifton; Forrest expected daily at Okolona; the Mississippi militia, under Gholson, organizing to move to Okolona. Much boasting about a proposed raid on this rail- road and Memphis. Grant has certainly taken Jackson; the capitol burned. Mobile papers of the 14th state that heavy re-enforcements from South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee are on the way to John- ston, at - All the cars on the MobiP~ and Ohio Railroad have been taken to transport troops. A citizen just in from Jackson says Yicksburg was evacuated on Saturday; moving on Ridge road to fins- tory [Lexington]. This is doubtful, at best. If so, they will want to move round him and unite with force at Meridian, or may be desperate enough to push north by Grenada and Panola. Look out for breakers. HJJRLBUT. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 18, 1863. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Cannot you make some arrangement by which the Third Division of my Ninth Corps* can be sent out here at once? I am very much in need of it. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, May 18, 18636 p. m. Major-General BUENSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: The Third Division of the Ninth Corps cannot now be sent to you. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief. * Gettys, in Ma.jor-General Dixs command Page 339 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 339 MURFREESEOROUGH, May 18, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: The colonel [Lieut. Col. C. G. Loring] left yesterday at 5 p. m. for Nashville, and thence by train this morning for Louisville. llartsuff is to concentrate at Red Springs, on the road from Glasgow to Carthage. Ninth Corps to Jamestown, and thence advance to break London Bridge. When and where will you have the pack-mules ~i W. S. IROSECRANS. HEADQUARTERS, Louisville, May 18,, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE: General IRosecrans telegraphs me that he has satisfactory information that all the rebel cavalry is at McMinnville, excepting Morgan and Pegram. I do not believe twenty-four rebel regiments are concentrat- ing at Morristown for raid into Kentucky, and that another force, nuder General Buckner, is at Clinton. I do not believe Buckner is in Tennes- see. I believe Morgan will make a raid as soon as he finds out where your forces are, and if he satisfies himself your cavalry cannot catch him. I have given the orders to Generals Judah, ilobson, and Manson. J. T. BOYLE, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, Capt. GEORGE A. HICKS, Middleburg, Ky., May 18, 1863. Asst. Adjt. Gen., First Division, Ninth Army Corps: CAPTAIN: I have the honor to report that my cavalry scouts have jnst returned from within 8 miles of Jamestown. They report that Morgan and a young Breckinridge were at Jamestown on Thursday with a flag of truce to Colonel Jacob, relative to some of Jacobs men wounded and in his hands, whom he wished sent to this side. The pris- oners were receive(l by Colonel Jacob and taken to Columbia, where his force lies. On Saturday abont 200 of Morgans men were at James- town, and scouted in the direction of Columbia, and my scouts were in- formed that they still hovered near Jamestown, if not in it. Morgans wholg force. is on the opposite side of the river, at Horse Shoe Bend. Their force is variously estimated at from 8,000 to 12,000. It is inferred that he has infantry, as drums could be heard beating the calls. Colonel Jacobs scouts had not been at Jamestown since Friday morn~ ing. Morgan informed one of the citizens of Jamestown that in five days from that time he would cross with his whole force and encamp on the north side of the town. The scouts were advised not to go any nearer Jamestown. The general impression of the loyal citizens is that he will make a desperate attempt to advance into Central Kentucky. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, DANIEL LEASUBE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. LEXINGTON, May 18, 186310.15. Major-General BURNSIDE: II~pllowing just received from Somerset: The following information received last night from scouts and others: Morgan and Pegram, with cavalry force, 5,000 to 6,000; [John B.] Palmer, infantry force, 2,500 Page 340 340 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. Buckner is coming from East Tennessee to join in in vasion of Kentucky. Rebels report their forces at 16,000. Our scouts say they think there are not more than 10,000, but even this latter number is too great, unless there are more men with Morgan, Pegram, and Palmer than I stated above, which is possible, for if they intend to invade Ken- tucky they will not undertake it with a very small force; and they say they are com- ing for supplies and must have them. The river will soon be fordable. It can be crossed now at points, so they can concentrate at some place, and cross without much trouble. I will increase the guard and watch them closely. CARTER. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier.General. MAY 18, 1863. General CARTER, Somerset: There is a division of our troops at Lancaster, under General Sturgis. In case of emergency this division can advance to support you. Should you he compelled to fall back, there is Halls Gap, a better point than any for good position. 0. B. WILLLCOX, Brigadier- General. CoRINTH, Miss., May 18, 1863. General RosECRANS, Murfreesborough: Scouts in from south. Grant took Jackson Thursday. Johnston is in command of rebels. Heavy re-enforcements from Georgia and South Carolina and Port Hudson were arriving tbere daily. Rebel papers of 14th brought by scouts confirm all this, and acknowledge their defeat at Raymond and Bard Springs, within 8 miles of Jackson; also say large bodies of troops were moving to Johnston from Georgia and South Carolina. Papers give full particulars of Streights capture; say Wood took him, with 800 men; that force from Atlanta and Dal- ton, amounting to 400, got in his front, but did not get iuto fight. I fully believe that Walker followed him with 1,500 men. The movement of troops from Georgia and South Carolina you may rely upon. G. M. DODGE. GENERAL ORDERS,j HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO,. No. 70. Cincinnati, Ohio, Miay 18, 1863. I. The intention of that portion of General Orders, No 66, from these headquarters, relating to the removal of wives and families of persons in arms against the United States, being merely to remove from this department those persons who, from their intimate relations with the enemies of the Government, would be presumed to exercise an active sympathy with the rebellion, and would, therefore, be dangerous as resi- dents, and as arbitrary arrests, or notices to remove under that order, might occasion suffering and injustice, it is hereby ordered that in all such cases the proper officer having cognizance of the facts will forward to these headquarters a written statement of the circumstances before he takes any further action. II. As the experience of this department has shown that cases exist where the persons to whom General Orders, No. 66, refers, are, not- withstanding their close relationship to the enemies of the country, still loyal to the Government, and are willing to testify it by taking the oath of allegianee, such persons, when there is evidence of the honesty of the intention of the parties in taking the oath, will not be molested Page 341 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 341 HI. The attention of all officers having charge of paroled prisoners is again directed to the orders of the War Departmept relative to paroled prisoners, the requirements of which must be strictly complied with. Negligence in this respect canses great confusion and injury to the service, and hereafter any officer guilty of such neglect will be held strictly accohutable therefor. General Orders, No. 46, current series, War Department, applies to men absent without authority, paroled prisoners included, and requires that they should be sent to the general camps designated in General Orders, No. 72, War Department, of June, 1862, and it requires that the military commandant shall make tn-monthly reports of men so for- warded. General Orders, No. 72, names three camps at which paroled prisoners are to be assembled, and the commanders of those camps are required 10 furnish the commissary-general of prisoners with rolls of all men who join or leave, and with a monthly and semi-monthly return showing all alterations. IV. All tenders of resignations, or applications for leaves of absence or furloughs, will be forwarded through the proper military channels to these headquarters for final action. V. Officers in their official communications will he governed by the regulations requiring that such communications shall refer to one sub- ject only. VI. With the exception of telegraphic commnnications from district commanders, all official papers intended for the commanding general must be addressed to the assistant adjutant-general of the department, and forwarded through the proper military channel. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY, No. 222. Washington, M~iy 18, 1863. I. Brig. Gen. N. C. McLean, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to duty with the command of Major-General Buruside, U. S. Volunteers, and will report in person accordingly. II. Brig. Gen. H. G. Wright, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby relieved from duty in the Department of the Ohio, and will report in person to the commanding general, Army of the Potomac. By command of Major-General Halleck: E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant- General. FRANKLIN, May 19, 1863. General ROSECRANS: I have no information of any movements or intentions of the enemy. Everything seems to be quiet, so far as I can learn. It has occurred to me that Johnston is massing his troops on the railroad from Athens to Knoxville, in order to flank both yourself and Burnside, and force us to make new and difficult dispositions, and, if possible, to change our base and scatter our troops. They have been fortifying Columbia for several days, which proves their intention to hold it with small force, and perhaps deceive us as to their real intention. G. GIlANGER, Major- General Page 342 342 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. TRIUNE, VIA LA VERGNE, May 19, 186310 a. m. General GARFIELD: The enerny~s infantry have not advanced beyond Unionville as late as last evening. There seems no room for doubt that there is one divis- ion, and only one, at that place. It is said to be McCowns division. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. LA VERGNE, May 19, 1863. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Assistant Adjutant- General and Chief of Staff: My cavalry have thoroughly scouted the country along Stones River, but can hear of no enemy nearer than Lebanon, with exception of a few scouts. I shall explore the country east of the river in force with a forage train day aft& to-morrow, unless you send me orders. JAMES B. STEEDMAN~ Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, May 19, 186311.30 a. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, Cincinnati, Ohio: The President has been asked to add that part of Kentucky between the Cumberland and the Mississippi to your Department. For military purposes, it seems to me, that these counties should belong to General Grants department. I submit the matter, however, for your opinion. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. LEXINGTON, KY., May 19, 186311.50 a. in. General BUENSIDE: The following received from Mount Vernon: I will answer your message about taking and holding Cumberland Gap by mail. I have intelligence from Harlan County that the cavalry force of rebels that were in Harlan have gone toward Perry County, saying they were going to Mount Sterling; said to be 1,000. I have ordered a scout from Manchester toward Hazard to ascertain the facts. GILBERT. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington City, Th C., May 20, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS, Murfreesborough: The President desires to know whether you have any late news from Grant, or any of th~ operations on the Mississippi. If you have, please report. EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary af War Page 343 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 343 TRIUNE, May 20, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: There was no indication of the enemy advancing late last evening. Refugees who came in yesterday report a considerable force sent toward Yicksburg. I will, of course, remain as you desire until Brannan comes. SCHOFIELD, Major- General, Commanding. CORINTH, May 20, 1863. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: One of my scouts, taken prisoner last January and confined at At- lanta, arrived last night. Left Atlanta May 8, and was five days in Chattanooga. Saw Streights men at Atlanta. They say their ammu- nition was wet when taken, and give same story about them we have sent. When at Chattanooga, five to seven brigades passed south from Braggs army. Said they were going to Vicksburg and Rome, Ga. They are fortifying Rome. They were four days passing through in the cars. Two days after, saw two more brigades pass through Stevenson. Saw Texas, Arkansas, and Tennessee troops among them. Says on Streights approach no troops were at Atlanta; that all stores were moved, citizens fled, and they all considered they were gone ~ Also at Stevenson saw large numbers of empty cars going toward Tullahoma. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. JACKSON, May 20, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel BINMORE, Assistant Adjutant-General, Sixteenth Army Corps: One qf Dodges men, who was with Streight, escaped after being cap- tured, and has returned to Corinth. He says when taken they were worn out; that Forrest captured them with 500 men. Streight thought a large force was after him. He destroyed all his wagons near Days Gap, and had great trouble in getting along for want of provisions. Fourteen hundred men surrendered; the rest got away. Streight took and paroled a large number of prisoners. In most of the fights Streight whipped them, until the last one. Roddey has sent in to Dodge to ex- change 70 of his men. He is now at Tuscumbia Valley. Forrest said to have returned to Spring Hill on the 13th instant. Wheeler is said to be in command on east side of Tennessee River. R. J. OGLESBY, Major- General. CINCINNATI, OHIO, May 20, 186311.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. II. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: I am quite satisfied that the counties i~m Kentucky west of the Ten- nessee River ought to belong to the department of General Grant or be attached to the Department of the Missouri, and that the commander of the Department of the Missouri ought to be authorized to act on the border counties of Illinois. In fact, I think the whole State of Illinois ehould belong to that department. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- Genera Page 344 344 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. HEADQUARTERS SECOND BRIGADE, FOURTH DIVISION, DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Mount Vernon, May 20, 1863. Brigadier.General WJLLCOX, C~ommanding District of Central Kentucky, Lexington: SIR: In answer to your telegraphic dispatch of the 17th, in regard to taking a large force through the by-paths of the mountains in the vicin- ity of Cumberland Gap, and the holding of that position, if taken, with a force of 5,000 men, I have the honor to submit the following: Light troops can pass from Cumberlaud River to Powells Valley in two and a half days march at almost any point. There are three or four good mountain roads that a few hours labor in cleaning away barri- cades of fallen timber and loose rocks would render practicable for ar- tillery and light baggage, and I think we could be in Powells Valley, at any given l)oint, in three days after crossing Cuinberland River. Citizens of East Tennessee say that this move of itself would pro- duce an evacuation of the Gap, owing to the fact that the troops there have no supplies ahead. I would not depend upon this, however, but would endeavor, by a surprise, to carry the left-hand pinnacle and its battery, which, I understand, commands the other pinnacle and nearly the whole interior of the fortifications. The men and material for such an expedition should be organized not farther forward than Crab Orchard, so that no clew would be given to their destination; and, when put in motion, should be kept moving until the blow was struck. The supplies for the party designed for the sur- prise could be easily accumulated at London without exciting appre- hensions, and for my present command here and at Wild Cat. Owing to the fact that Cumberland Gap is even more thoroughly fortified toward the south than this way, the force that turned it would have to be strong enough to meet in Powells Valley any enemy that might be marching to re-enforce or relieve the garrison if they failed to evacuate; or, if the surprise failed to be effectual, Morristown is but two days march, and Knoxville and Clinton but three days from the Gap. The rebels are reported to have an aggregate of 25,000 (they claim more) within the limits of those places. I believe we could take the place by surprise, but am not well enough acquainted with the locality to be positive. I.can get 1,500 men out of my brigade who will give it a desperate trial anyway, and would be glad of the chance. So much for the taking, and now for the holding. When General G. W. Morgan was there last year, about one-half his forage and meat was obtained in the country, within 50 miles of the Gap. Now, everything an army would require, both for its own use and for the use of its supply trains, would have to be drawn from the depot at Nicholasville, as the country sofith of a line drawn through Crab Orchard, Big Hill, and Proctor will not this year produce any surplus over the absolute neces- sities of the inhabitants. N~cholasville is about 120 miles from Cumber- land Gap, or about sixteen days the round trip for army wagons. The kind of roads will not admit of hauling over four hundred rations per wagon, in addition to the grain for the animals. It will, therefore, take a train of 13 wagons per day to supply 5,000 men with rations, being 208 wagons. That number of men stationed there would involve about 1,000 horses to be fed there all the time, which would require a forage train of 22 wagons a day, being 352 wagons Page 345 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 345 For quartermaster and ordnance stores and other supplies, rot less than 5 wagons per day would be required, being 110 wagons, a total of 770 wagons. To this estimate should be added 20 per cent. for contin- gencies, which runs the total up to 924 wagons as being necessary for the daily supply of 5,000 men and 1,000 horses at Cumberland Gap. My calculations are based upon the proposition that six mules can haul 2,000 pounds 16 miles per day, and one day loading and unloading. What- ever additional time they would require would add 48 wagons for each day, added to the length of the round trip. To secure a supply so that we might not be starved out if shut up there, as Morgans army was, the foregoing calculation will show that for every sixteen days supply secured in that number of days a similar number of wagons must be added. This supply of transportation is so prodigious that it brings me to the belief that the surest way to occupy East Tennessee is to extend the railroad from Nicholasville, as recommended by the President a year and a half ago. The money required to get up and run this immense number of wagons, and to keep up the wear and tear in them and in the roads, would, with the aid of the contrabands accumulated atvarious points along the Mississippi River and Atlantic Coast, not now usefully employed and an expense to the Government, go far toward the construction of this railroad, and at the close of the war, instead of brokendown mules and shattered wagons, the Government would have for sale a valuable improvement, and would have added wealth to the land by the development of its resources. As a military position, Cumberland Gasp is certainly not very impor- tant or controlling; it is too easily turned. When occupied by the rebels, General Morgan easily turned it. Kirby Smith found no difficulty in turning it when occupied by General Morgan. We can again turn it, and march into Powells Valley without opposition. The ease with which it may be turned renders it unimportant as a defensive position for the protection of this State. That was demonstrated last summer. Had General Morgans command been at Wild Cat or Big Hill, the battle at Richmond would not have been lost. Kirby Smith would have been defeated on the edge of the productive regions of the State, where they arrived in an almost destitute condition; and to have been detained a few days south of the line before named, through Crab Orchard, Big Hill, and Proctor, would have secured their annihilation, as they came with- out supplies, depending upen breaking through into the fertile blue-grass region. That country is infinitely more destitute now than it was then. Kirby Smith disposed of, General Morgan would have been free to operate against their main force under Bragg, and in a position where he would have had good roads and abundant supplies at the least cost, and the occupation of this State by the rebels would have been saved. This mountain country was poor then; it is utterly exhausted now, and its destitution forms a very fair barrier to an invasion. If we are to be on the defensive in this locality, we should throw upon the enemy all the disadvantages of ha~ing to move through this des- titute country to reach our main line of defense. His energy will thereby be somewhat exhausted, and if his attack fail, we would, by assuming the offensive, vigorously annihilate the invading army. As an offensive position, Cumberland Gap would be valuable if our means of transportation would enable us to accumulate a sufficient store of supplies to sustain an army in the field when operating near Knoxville or other points along the East Tennessee and Virginia Railroad Page 346 346 KY.~ MID. AND K TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [(JHAF. XXXV. The population of East Tennessee has been so much reduced, and the people so much disheartened by the depredations of the rebel army, that not over one-third the usual product of that country will be har- vested. Therefore, it would not do to base any calculations of move- ments upon the obtaining of full supplies of food and forage for an army there. I have taken pains to make inquiry from refugees from all the counties, and am satisfied that the above estimate is correct. We must, therefore, provide stores in advance. To do this, the only means com- mensurate with the undertaking is the construction of the railroad, and, until it is done, the occupation of the line to the rear, where our energies will not be wasted in a contest with nature as well as rebels. If posted at Cumberland Gap, a force would have to be kept also at Big Creek Gap, or Williamsburg, to protect our long line of communications from the depredations of the enemys mounted troops. That force would also have to be supplied with everything from the rear, at a similar expense. if you will order my other regiment, the One hundred and third Ohio, now at Somerset, to join me, and add the Forty-fifth Ohio to my com- mand, I believe we can take either Cumberland or Big Creek Gaps at any time. It would have to be done with a dash, and the preparations concealed carefully from the enemy, as they are so close to their reserves and we are so far from ours. A failure might prove a disaster; and, if taken, we could hold either position against anything bat starvation; but to hold those advanced positions would, I think, be a mistake until, by the extension of that railroad, increased and certain means of trans- portation are supplied. Fortified positions at Wild Cat and Big Hill will just as well protect Kentucky from invasion over those routes, and would keep the troops where they can be more easily supplied, and be more available for emergencies that may arise in other parts of the State. A thousand mounted men can afford full protection to these mountain counties and consume all their surplus products. As no army can be supported there, the rebels are not geing to try to occupy it, and, there- fore, no good can result from our exhausting our energies in its occupa- tion at present. They had better be devoted to the production of the means, i. e., the railroad. That will enable us to make a permanent lodgment wheu we do advance. Until the road reaches Crab Orchard, the enemy will not know where it is designed to cross th& river. That should be the first section. Then, until it passes London, its exact loca- tion would be unknown. That should be the second section. Having arrived there, we would be very nearly as close to the two gaps with our railroad as the rebels are with theirs, and should establish ourselves in the mountains at the point we intended to pass through them. Our distance from our supplies would not then be so great but what an army could be supplied in the field in East Tennessee. Your dispatch directed me to answer after due consideration. I have done so, probably more at length than you expected, but certainly not more so than the importance of the subject demands. I do not know that I have been able to advance any new ideas or throw any light on the subject. They are my thoughts and conclusions, which you can take for whatever they may be worth. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAMUEL A. GILBERT, Got., Gomdg. Second Brig., Fourth Div, Army of Central Kentucky. (Forwarded by General Willcox to General Buruside, May 23, 1863. Page 347 CHAP. XXXV.] COt~RESP0NDtNCt, ET~.tTNt0N. 347 IrEADQUARTERS THIRD BRIGADE, Middleburg, Ky., May 20, 186312 m. Capt. GEORGE A. HICKS, Assi8tant Adjutant-General: CAPTAIN: I send forward Colonel Christs reports, just this moment received.* The messenger left Somerset at 7 oclock this morning. All was quiet then, but, after he had ridden some 6 miles, he was overtaken by au express messenger for Colonel Wolford. Shortly after, the mes- senger heard rapid cannonading toward the Cumberland, and counted some sixty shots. He supposed the enemy were trying to cross over. He reports that the enemy has been re-enforced by 15,000 troops. I sent 10 of Captain [Alexander] Smiths cavalry (Wolfords) to the front yesterday, with instructions to forward me the earliest intelligence of any movement of the enemy, and all other matters of importance. None of them have yet returned. As soon as I hear from them, I will apprise you. Very respectfully, your most obedient servant, DANIEL LEASURE, Colonel, Commanding Brigade. OFFICE CHIEF OF ENGINEERS, DEPT. OF THE OHIO Cincinnati, Ohio, May 20, 1863. Brig. Gen. JOSEPH G. TOTTEN, Chief of Corps of Engineers, Washington, D. C.: GENERAL: Inclosed I have the honor to forward Spicial Orders, No. 155, from the headquarters of this department, directing Captain Mc- Alester to relieve me of the immediate charge of the defenses of this city, and making him the disbursing officer for the Engineer Corps in this department. By this arrangement the accounts of Capt. C. E. Mc- Alester, [Twenty-third] Michigan regiment volunteers, in charge of the construction of the defenses along the Louisville and Nashville Rail- road, as far as and inclusive of Bowling Green, and at Glasgow, will be settled as heretofore by Capt. Miles D. McAlester, Corps of Engineers. At the date of being relieved of the defenses of this city by Captain McAlester, May 2, my operations since April 19, when I took charge, were as follows: ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE LICKING RIVER. Port Whittle~ey.The parapet all around, except on the rear sides, was increased to a thickness of 13 feet; the breast height revetted with boards; the interior of the work defiladed and graded, and the maga- zines covered with a roof of tongued and grooved boards, and on these another layer of inch boards, the whole made water.tight by a compo- sition of rosin and tar. The logs were got out and prepared for the stockade connecting the two works (see plan already furnished). Six guns en barbette were also mounted. Phil. Kearny BatteryThe parapet of this work was extended, as recommended in my report to Major-General Wright of November 27. ~haler Battery.Two additional guns (32s) were mounted, and the garrison has, under my direction, been improving the breast height. Not found Page 348 348 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. McLean Battery.One 30-pounder Pari~tt and two 32-pounders mounted. The garrison has greatly improved the appearance of this battery by sodding its superior and exterior slopes. ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE LICKING RIVER. Larz Anderson Battery.One face rebuilt and lengthened, in order to move one of the guns, and thus give room for a 30-pounder Parrott. Parapet trimmed and sodded. Work done by soldiers of Company A, Captain Murphy. Burnet Battery.New drain dug and old magazine torn down, being too small. Stone wall of new magazine will be done in a few days, and materials for flooring and roofing are at Kyles, ready for use as soon as the carpenters, now roofing the other magazines, reach the spot. Ex. cavating and building of stone wall, & c., done by part of Company A, under Lieutenant Tener. Burbank Battery.New revetment of upright locust logs, with 2-inch cap pieces of plank. Parapet trimmed and about one-half sodded. Work done by soldiers, under Captain Cald well. Plank to cap revet. ment, tools and spike, furnished by Engineer Department. Carlisle Battery.Water-tight roofing commenced. Hooper Battery.Drain made and put in, as magazine was half full of water before. Old roof propped up; water-tight roofing put over it, covered with earth. Entrance altered to allow 5 feet of earth being put on magazine. Two guns mounted. Parapet trimmed and sodded. All done by men in employ of Engineer Department. Kyle Battery.Water.tight root; new drain, and improved entrance to magazine, by men in employ of Engineer Department. Parapet trimmed and sodded, and magazine covered, by soldiers of Captain ileatons company. New fort south of Kyles.Three-fifths of the earthwork finished. Bevetment commenced; material to finish it on ground. Drains for ditches, & c., finished, by men in employ of Engineer Department. Fort Mitchel.Magazine roof raised from 4 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 9 inches in height, for a distance of 15 feet; beyond that the magazine has a height inside of 5 feet 9 inches. Entrance improved and water- tight roofing put on, by our men. Outwork trimmed and sodded; mag- azine uncovered and filled in again, by soldiers of Company F, under Lieutenant ilolman. Perry Battery.Water-tight roofing to magazine, by our men. lie- vetment straightened, parapet trimmed and sodded, and magazine covered, by soldiers of Company F, under Lieutenant Yiolet. Bates Battery.Water-tight roof to magazine, by our men. Magazine covered, parapet trimmed and sodded, by men of Captain Gatewoods company. Coombs Battery.Magazine lengthened to accommodate ammunition for five guns, it having been built for three. Two-thirds of watertight roofing linished and drains put in, by our men. All earthwork in con- nection with the alterations to this magazine, as well as trimming par- apet, sodding it, and digging drains, done by Captain Gatewoods company. I also inclose a copy of an order directing me to inspect, with Brig- adier-General Tillson, chief of artillery of fortifications, the fortifica- tions of this department. This examination took place betweeii the 0th and 14th instant. We inspected the work at Salt Creek, liolling Fork, the two trestles at Muldraughs Hill, Munfordville, and Bowling Green Page 349 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 349 4 all on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, and mainly intended for the defense of important bridges, though Bowling Green and Mun- fordville are strategic points, and the works at these points are cor- respondingly more extended and important. The same may be said of the work at Glasgow, 12 miles southeast of the railroad from Cave City. I have also visited the forts at Frankfort and Lexington (armament of these forts ~n the ground), and in every case left directions for such extensions and improvements as circumstances required. All the works mentioned, except those at Bowling Green (which were thrown up by the rebels), were projected by Capt. Miles D. Mc- Alester, Corps of Engineers, and have been pushed forward as rapidly as the strength of the garrisons would allow. Those at Munfordville and Glasgow are about ready for their armament, which, as also for all the other works, have been required by the chief of ordnance of this de- partment. I am preparing a tabular statement of the forts and batteries, their location and armament, at the request of the Ordnance Department, a copy of which I hope to send you. SURVEYS FOR MILITARY DEFET~SES. The surveys and mapping of the country intervening [between] this city and Lexington have been continued, the total length of roads meas- ured and topography given during the month of April being 167 miles. The direct road from Crab Orchard toward Cumberland Gap I have had, hy direction of General Burnside, examined as far as a point 18 miles beyond London, with a view, if possible, to its being metaled or planked. Between the 27th and 29th of April, by directiou of Major-General Bnrnside I with Captain Dickerson, chief quartermasfrr, selected a site for a large depot, 6 miles beyond Nicholasville, between a bend of the Kentucky River and Hickman Creek, on its west side, distant from Lexington on the Danville pike 18 miles. Lieutenant-Colonel [0. E] Babcock, assistant inspector-general and chief engineer, District of Cen- tral Kentucky, has been directed by me, under instructions from Major- General Burnside, to fortify the area, embracing about ~* square miles. Capt. T. B. Brooks, Volunteer engineer, I have sent to aid Lieutenant- Colonel Babcock in the examination of the area, and afterward to ex- amine the wagon roads between that point and the Cumberland, about Somerset, and thence to Jamestown, Columbia, Campbellsville, and Lebanon, with a view to ascertain the best route for forwarding sup. plies. Lieutenant-Colonel Babcock has made a survey of the country imme- diately about Louisville, with a view, if required, to its fortification, and submitted a tracing of map and reports to this office. Captain Poe, Corps of Engineers, is chief engineer of Twenty-third Army Corps, Brigadier-General llartsuff commanding, at present in Louisville and about to take the field. I inclose a statement of money received and expended up to April30. The accounts for the month were made out, but under the circular of April 10, Treasury Department, they will be withheld till the close of the present quarter J am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. II. SIMPSON, Major of E~rgineer8 Page 350 350 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CuAP. XXXV. [Inclosures.] SPECIAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. I)EPARTMFNT OF THE OHIO, No. 141. ~ Cincinnati, Ohio, April 25, 1863. * * * * * * * VIII. Brig. Gen. Davis Tilison, chief of artillery of fortifications, and Maj. J. II. Simpson, chief of engineers, will, in company, as soon as practicable, make an inspection of the fortifications in the department, and give such directions in the further prosecution of the works as may be necessary. * * * * * X. Major Simpson, U. S. Army, and chief engineer Department of the Ohio, and Capt. J. II. Dickerson, U. S. Army, and chief quarter- master Department of the Ohio, will at once proceed to some point in Kentucky beyond Nicholasville, for the purpose of selecting a site for a depot of military supplies for the troops operating in that vicinity. By order of Major-General Bnrnside: W. P. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant- General. SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 155. 1 Uincinnati, Ohio, May 2, 1863. * * * * * * * VI. In order that Maj. J. II. Simpson, chief of engineers, may be enabled to generally supervise the engineer operations of this depart. ment, Capt. Miles D. MeAlester will relieve him of the immediate charge of the defenses of this city, Covington, and Newport, and will also act as disbursing officer fe~ the Corps of Engineers in the depart- ment. By order of General Buruside: W. P. ANDERSON, Assistant Adjutant- General. Statement of money received and expended under each appropriation in the month of April, 1563. Contingen- Surveys cies of fortifi- for military cations, TotaL defense. including field works. Dae the United States from last month $1,461 79 $1, 461 79 Received since April 19 $8, 000 00 8, 000 00 Total to be aeeonnted for 1.461 79 8, 000 00 I 9, 401 79 month of March ~ 6,254 70 Expended during 513 74 7,404 20 Total accounted for 635 76 6,768 44 7,404 20 Due 1st of May, to the United States 826 03 1, 231 56 2, 057 59 Due United States - *2, 057 59 J. H. SIMPSON, 211 ajer of Engneers. * With United States depositary, Cincinnati, $1,981.43; with United States as- sistant treasurer, New York, $76.14 Page 351 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNJON. 351 MURFREES]3OROUGH, TENN., May 21, 186312.30 a. m. Major-General HAI1LEcK, General-in- Chief: We have files of rebel papers to the 19th. Our scouts in last evening and to-day satisfy me that from three to seven brigades have left for the south, passing Chattanooga on the 13th and 14th. If I had 6,000 cav- alry, in addition to the mounting of the 2,000 now waiting horses, I would attack Bi~agg within three days. As it is, all my corps com- manders and chief of cavalry are opposed to an advance, which, they think, hazards more than the probable gains. Could not all the cavalry possibly disposable be sent down quietly and promptly from all points l The price and the rigorous inspection at Louisville prevents rapid pur- chases. The quartermaster there telegraphed a few days ago that he was averaging but 9 per day. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, May 21, 18633.30 p. m. Major-General IIOSEORANS, - Murfreesborough, Tenn.: I have only to repeat what I have so often stated, that there is no more cavalry to send you. We have -none, and can get none until a draft is made. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief MEMPHIS, May 21, 1863. General ROS~CRANS: Scouts in from East Tennessee report as follows: Forces moving from Savannah to Linden. A force is crossing at Muscle Shoals south. This is the point at which Kirby Smith crossed to go to Vicksburg last winter. This force is likely crossing the trains of the troops who went south, through Chattanooga, several days since. A heavy force has left Bragg~s army to join Joe Johnston before Grant. S. A. HUELBUT, Major-General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, May 21, 1863Midnight. Major-General REYNOLDS, tJommanding Fifth Division: The general commanding directs that Colonel Wilder go out on the Wartrace road; thence across to the Manchester pike, and return to this post. He is to drive in the pickets of the enemy, but not go so far as to get into any serious engagement. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. P. WILLARD, Captain and Aide-de-Camp Page 352 252 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. ICIAL. XXXV. YIURFREESBOROUGH, ]Jlay 21, 186312.20 a. in. General BURNSIDE: Please answer my last dispatch, and let me know your moves, if you eGuld come down soon, I think we conid strike a blow that would tell. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. CINCINNATI, May 21, 1863. Generals BOYLE and IIARTSIJFF, Louisville, Ky.: You have doubtless seen Colonel Loring and learned of my plans. It is very desirable to hurry up the coiicentration of the troops. All sur- plus regiments should be sent to Columbia and Glasgow at once, with a view to concentration, as proposed. If you can get two regiments and battery at Glasgow, I can withdraw the three Tennessee regiments there. Colonel Loring will explain. Time is everything just now. How are you off for transportation ~ The Michigan regiments can be left at Louisville. Answer. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, May 21, 1863. General WILLCOX, Lexington, Ky.: Some rough pontoon boats have been sent to Nicholasvilie. Please have them sent to Carter at once. Babcock had better go with them. Order Sturgis division to join Carter, and order him to prepare for a move upon Jamestown, Teun., at once. The two Tennessee mounted regiments ought to be ready for a move at an hours notice. What kind of roads lead from Middleburg to Jamestown, Columbia, and Somerset ~ Send orders to Welsh to be ready to move to-morrow morning; also the Sixty-fifth Illinois. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CATLETTSBUEG, Ky., May 21, 1863. Major-General BuRNsInn: Trustworthy scouts and other sonrces of information predict an early raid between the Kanawha and Sandy Rivers by the enemy, now near General Scammon. This place and Ashland, where our general hospi- tal is situated, are greatly exposed. The Guyandotte and Sandy Rivers are fordable at many places. The enemy number 3,000 to 4,000. I can hold Louisa, but my force is too small to divide into smaller detach- ments. General Scammons force is all at Charleston. The entire region between my district and the Kanawha is filled with secesh, and not a Union soldier in it. Will I soon have the 1,000 infantry and a battery? Answer quickly. JULIUS WHITE, Brigadier.General Page 353 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 353 HEADQUARTERS NINTH Gino VOLUNTEER CAVALRY, Near Manchester, Ky., May 21, 1863. Brigadier-General WILLOOX, Commanding District of Centrat Kentucky, Lexington: GENERAL: As you have been informed through Colonel Gilbert, I was very much detained by onr train, bad roads, & c., and found it [the road] impracticable to this point via McKee. I arrived here on Sunday morning, May 10, after a march of six days, and received notice through Colonel Gilbert to send back for supplies, and await further orders. I find the people very generally loyal, and very glad to see us. They immediately brought in their horses, which had been hid in the mount- ains, and began to plant their corn and spring crops, at which they are still working with a great deal of vigor. Last week rumors were constantly coming in as to rebel forces in the section known as the Red Bird settlement, variously estimated at from 300 to 2,000 scattered in different localities on the borders of Clay and Harlan Counties. On Thursday last I was informed by reliable citizens that 1,300 of the enemy, under Colonels [Campbell] Slemp and [B. E.] Candill, were ad- vancing upon Manchester to drive me out. I immediately sent out a scouting party of 20 men to watch their movements, and selected a very strong position 5 miles in advance of my camp, upon which to meet them. After an absence of thirty-six hours, the scouts returned, having gone 30 miles into the localities where the enemy were reported. They ascertained that there had been a force of about 300 horse-thieves pil- laging in the vicinity, but who fled upon hearing of the approach of our men, and, from the best information I have at present, there are no rebel troops stationed in Harlan County. Slemps Sixty-fourth Virginia Regiment crossed Cumberland Mount- ains at Cranks Gap, near Jonesville, on Friday last, as I learn from a couple of spies whom I caught last Tuesday, of whom I will speak here- after. I have found grass to last for ten days or two weeks yet, and some 300 or 400 bushels of corn, and this morning I hear of some more. The citizens ar~ anxious for us to stay, and are doing all in their power to find us supplies. I have sent six wagons to Lexington for corn. I have fifteen days rations for the men on hand. I sent 120 men to Cumberland Ford yesterday morning to co-operate with the Forty-fourth. I have not heard from them yet. The two men I arrested two days ago attempted to pass through the lines, and, when brought in, pretended to be first-class Union men, & c. One produced a paper signed by Colonel Strickland, authorizing him to recruit for the Fifth Tennessee Regiment; but I examined them sepa- rately, and their stories didnt agree at all. I had learned some facts from other sources, and in the end made them acknowledge that they failed to tell me truth in everything, and that one of them had been through here ten days ago as a spy for Colonel Slemp, and that he did report to him upon his return to his regiment the condition of the coun- try and the number and condition of the Union troops in this locality; but they now claim that this time they ran away from the rebel service in reality; that although they have belonged to the regiment, and about one year, yet they never liked it, & c., and embraced the first good opportunity of deserting. Their stories have been very inconsistent and contradictory, and, in my opinion, the young one especially richly deserves being shot. In 23 R HVOL XXIII~ PT I Page 354 354 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXv. fact, they both admit that according to the rebel code they would be shot. They are badly frightened and very penitent. I will forward them via London and Mount Vernon, and desire some instructions as to my course in future with such cases. In sending them off, they are taken beyond the reach of most of the proof which would convict them, which will make it very difficult to have the facts fully brought before the court appointed to try them. Papers have also been sent me in relation to old Colonel Garrard, of whom you have heard. They were taken from a rebel soldier who was arrested some miles from here toward Richmond. It seems that he had, while in this vicinity, stopped all night with Colonel Garrard, showing him a pass from the rebel colonel commanding at Cumber- land Gap, authorizing him to pass through the rebel lines in Ken- tucky. Colonel Garrard gave him directions how to proceed through the State, giving him also a paper with the names of places in which Union troops were stationed, directing him to avoid them. I have these papers. Mr. White, whom you know, says the last-named paper is the handwriting of the old man. Although no other proof has been discovered, it is generally believed that his house is the regu- lar information depot for the rebel army in this county. The old gen- tleman is eighty years old; has one son a brigadier.general in our army, and another State treasurer of Kentucky, as you know, all of which, in my opinion, should not be considered in his favor when the man is doing what he can against us. I shall wait for instructions. I am informed, although I have never talked with him, that he will not take the oath of allegiance to the United States. I will send all the papers I have containing proof as to the charac- ter of the two spies. I have established a line of couriers between here and London. I forward, in obedience, our tri.monthly reports for the 10th and 20th of May. I have the honor, general, to be, your obedient servant, W. D. HAMILTON, Major, Commanding Ninth Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. IIDQRS. THIRD DIVISiON, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, ]Jfay 22, 1863. Lieut. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Assistant Adjutant-General and Chief of Staff: A scouting party proceeded 5~ miles beyond ilarpeth on the Shelby- ville pike to-day, and encountered no rebel force of consequence. Respectfully, ~ M. BRANNAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. MAY 22, [1863.] Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, ]Jifurfreesborough, lenin.: The mail coming from Gallatin was captured again at Hartsville yesterday, bein~g attacked by about 290 rebel cavalry. Si~ men ~in~e Page 355 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 355 a sergeant escaped with the official mail. The escort consisted of a lieutenant and 25 men. I invariably send as large an escort as possible with the nnmber of cavalry I have. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, May 22, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Troops for the main column start to-morrow. Part of Hartsaffs start to-morrow, and the remainder next day. Hartsuff will not be as tardy as supposed. By what route do you propose to send pack-mnl~s? Have you packers with them? Where shall we receive them? Will be concentrated on the Cumberland in three or four days, and will then move rapidly. The main column will be fully as large as Loring repre- sents. Force will be sent to Carthage to relieve Tennessee regiments at once. Telegraph line will follow ns. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. MUE.FREESBOROUGII, May 22, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: I will send pack-mnles to Carthage or Scottsville, or wherever else you wish to receive them. We have packers. Shove your spare cav- alry well to the left, to cover Crooks movement on Liberty. W. S. ROSECRAKS, Major- General. CINCINNATI, OHIo, May 22, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALL~CK, General-in. Chief: A column is now organizing for a movement which was planned with the understanding that Gettys division was to join me. The move- ment should not be delayed, and I hope our lines of communication are strong enongh to warrant it. YoQ will remember that it was the nnderstanding that Getty was to join ns very soon. The movement will be commenced. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, May 22, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: I have ordered two more brigades of the Ninth Corps to Columbia, which, with Morrisons brigade, makes a complete division. They start at daylight in the morning from Middleburg. Order Jamestown to be occupied as an outpost by some of Jacobs cavalry, and I think it would be well to occupy Creelsborough and Burkes- yule both in the same way, if it is possible, as it will prevent much steal- ing of horses and supplies, and it would prepare us for the contemplated movement. You can order Stovers Tennessee regiment to Lebanon at once. Give it all the arms and supplies it needs. The Sixteenth Ken- tucky can be se~it to Glasgow at once Page 356 356 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. (CHAr. XXXV. What arms do you need for the Eleventh Kentucky Cavalry ~l I will have them sent at once, if possible. Have the regiment of Morrisons brigade that is at Green River sent to Columbia. Have Henshaws battery sent to Glasgow. Send these troops by train or over the road, as you think best. Leave the Sixty. third Indiana where they are for the present. If you have already given orders starting the Sixty-third Indiana for Glasgow, you can replace it on the railroad by the Sixteenth Kentucky. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. MAY 22, 1863. General WILLUOX, Lexington, Ky.: Have Welshs command moved to Columbia as rapidly as possible, and report its arrival by telegraph. Tell Carter to keep a good lookout, and prevent the enemy from crossing at Robertsport and passing up by way of Liberty. I will have the cavalry from Columbia occupy James- town and watch Creelsborough and Burkesville. Welsh will draw his supplies from Lebanon, and Carter and Sturgis will accumulate at once ten days supply of small-stores from the wagons and three from the haversacks, with fifteen or twenty days beef cattle. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CINCINNATI, May 22, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington, Ky.: Gilberts reconnaissance to Cumberland Gap is very creditable. I am anxious to receive his written plan for an attack. Let Sturgis division halt at Crab Orchard for further orders. I am very much afraid we shall be troubled in getting up supplies. Do Carters quartermasters act energetically ~ How is he off for ammunition ~i If he cannot supply himself with subsistence while he is at Somerset, he certainly cannot when he moves to the front. Does he transport salt meats ~ He should carry nothing but hard bread and small rations, and live on fresh meat. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. CONFIDENTIAL.] MAY 22, 1863. Colonel HARTRANFT, Lancaster: You will please start the Second Division for SomerseI~ to-morrow morning. As the road from Stanford to Somerset is already crowded with trains for the troops now at Somerset, you had better move at least part of the division by the Crab Orchard road, if you think it will facilitate the movement. Acknowledge receipt of this dispatch, and let me know what regiments will be ready to start to-morrow morning. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBEELAND, No. 116. f lljiiurfrees7orough, Tenn., May 22, 1863. I. As it is frequently of great importance that the time of sending official dispatches should be known to the general commanding, it i Page 357 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 357 ordered that all dispatches, by signal, telegraph, or letter, except those upon ordinary routine business, shall bear upon the dispatch itself the hour at which it is sent. Receipts given for such dispatches must always state the hour at which they are received. All telegraphic dis- patches will hereafter bear the hour at which they are sent by the writer, and that at which they are received by the operator at the station to which they are addressed. A standard time will be adopted at depart- ment headquarters by which that of the army will be regulated. II. Whenever a break occurs in the telegraph lines of this depart- ment, the operators at the two stations nearest to and on each side of the break will immediately inform the commandants of the posts nearest their respective stations, who will at once send sufficient guards to ac- company the repairers, and will be held responsible for the speedy res- toration of the lines. By command of Major-General iRosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 71. Cincinna1~i, Ohio, May 22, 1863. GENERAL ORDERS, WAR DEPARTMENT, ADJUTANT-GENERALS OFFICE, No. 103. ~ Washington, April 27, 1863. The President directs that the troops in Kentucky not belonging to the Ninth Army Corps be organized into the Twenty-third Army Corps, to be commanded by Maj. Gen. G. L. Hartsuff. By order of the Secretary of War: E. D. TOWNSEND, A8sistant Adjutant-General. I. In accordance with the above order, the troops serving in Ken- tucky, with the exception of the Ninth Army Corps and those troops which, from military necessity, are temporarily serving with it, will be organized into the Twenty-third Army Corps, nuder the direction of Maj. Gen. G. L. llartsuff, who will command it.* He will leave along the line of the railroad and at the depots of the various stores such force as may be necessary for their protection. This force will be under the command of Brigadier-General Boyle till it can be relieved by the troops now raising in Kentucky. II. For the objects set forth in Paragraph III of this order, the State of Kentucky is announced as a district in this department. III. Brigadier-General Boyle is placed in command of the District of Kentucky for the following purposes: He will have command of all the forces raised in Kentucky for special service in that State, under Gen- eral Orders, No. 59, current series, from these headquarters; will have the charge of the safety of public property, and the preservation of quiet in the State; will have the command of the guards over railroads, bridges, and depots of stores. These guards he will replace as soon as possible from the troops he is raising in Kentucky, the guards relieved renorting to General llartsuff. IV. Capt. S. S. Sumner, additional aide-de-camp, is announced as a member of the staff of the major-general commanding, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. * Hartsnff assnmed command May 28, 1863 Page 358 358 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. CINCINNATI, May 23, 18633.40 a. m. General ROSECRANS: I did not understand from Colonel Loring that I was to send regi. ments to Nashville and Carthage both, in exchange for the Tennessee regiments. I supposed I was to send two regiments and a battery to Carthage, and take the three Tennessee regiments with me, and have made arrangements for sending for the three regiments to Nashville. I will answer as to where I will have the pack-mules sent when I get your answer as to the regiments at Carthage. A. E. BUENSIDE. CORINTH, May 23, 18636 p. m. Major-General ROSECRANS, Murfree8borough: Spy says Johnston was fighting Grant Sunday and Monday. He left Jackson Sunday, and fighting was said to be going on at Edwards Station. Troops in large numbers have been coming across from Selma and up from Mobile to Johnston, part from Bragg, and scout says a part from North Carolina and Charleston. 8cout from east says a force with heavy trains was crossing at Muscle Shoals; I think it may be the trains of the force that went by cars. They are crossing at Browns Ferry, or near there. Is Wheeler in your front I He is reported near mouth of Duck River, but I think it is [T. G.] Woodward. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. Maj. F. S. BOND: GALLATIN, May 23, 1863. I have just seen the officer who came through from Hartsville. He informs me that the rebels immediately opposite crossed the river yes. terday, taking about 20 prisoners. Fifty men came down to-day as escort. The capture was very near the same place where the cattle were taken. E. A. PAINE, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CINCINNATI, May 23, 1863. General WILLOOX, Lexington, Ky.: I have ordered a telegraph line to be built from Paris to Mount Ster- ling. Colonel [li. 11.] Maltby is in Maysville by this time, with about 300 of the Tenth and Fourteenth Kentucky Cavalry, and will be at Mount Sterling in two or three days. Keep your scouts well out in the direction of Whitesburg. I do not believe theforce there as large as represented. I have notified General White at Louisa. Your old division will not be separated from your command. If Carter keeps his scouts well down towardJamestown,there will hardly be a chance for a cavalry raid through Liberty. Jamestown, Creelsborough, and Burkesville have been ordered to be occupied by Jacobs cavalry. With so long a line it is impossible to avoid leaving some weak places. Gilimore will be sent you as soon as he returns. 1 have authority from the Secretary of War to muster in the Tennessee officers, and you a Page 359 OtIAP. ~AxV.J t~0RPLtSPONDENCE, E1~C.tTNION. authorized to order your commissary to muster in the quartermaster of the Fifth Tennessee. The Sixty-fifth Illinois has arrived; will be in Lexington on Wednesday or Thursday. A. E. BUIRXSIDE, Major- General. HDQUS. FOtJ~TII DIVISION OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Somerset, Ky., May 23, 1803. Brig. Gen. 0. B. WILLUOX, Commanding District of Central Kentucky, Lexington: GENERAL: An examination of a map of Wayne and Clinton Coun- ties will show you how exceedingly difficult it will be to meet the rebels now there on anything like equal terms, if acted against only from this direction. From Monticello there is the right-hand road, leading to Albany, another running east, called the Jacksborongh road, from which a road branches leading to Jamestown, Teun. Going south from Monticello is the main Jamestown road. One mile out there is another, branching from this to the left, leading to same place. Five miles out on main Jamestown road there is a fork, the right hand going to Albany, and coming into the Albany road first mentioned about 7 miles to south and west of Monticello. If the enemy is unwilling to fight, he can take one or all the above-mentioned ways, and concentrate at Jamestown or Livingston, or he can fall back to some of the almost impregnable posi- tions on the main Jamestown and Albany roads, and there make a stand. From the best information I now have of the position of the rebel forces, I have no idea we can do more than come up with their rear guard, if they are unwilling to fight. If a force can cross the river at Burkesville, or, better still, at Celina or Martinsburg, and move rapidly on Albany, the main Jamestown and Livingston roads would be closed. If that force would then move in direction of Jamestown, while this command acted against the enemy from this direction, we might cut them off or capture many of them, as the only way by which they could escape would be over the Jacksborough road from Monticello. Should the enemy show a willingness to fight, our two forces could act in con- cert, so as to lessen, as far as possible, the probability of their making their escape. With regard to the movement you have ordered, from a point some 8 miles south of Monticello the country is broken and l)oOr, until you reach the vicinity of Jamestown. There the country is more open, but still so poor that nothing can be obtained in the way of forage. I speak now of the main road. This passes a very strong position 9 miles this side of Jamestown, known as Three Forks of Wolf. There the rebels, as early as the fall of 1861, had troops stationed, and threw up some defenses. It can be avoided by taking the left-hand road I have mentioned, and also I believe by going on toward Albany for some distance, and then turning to the left, via Traversville. James- town is 35 miles south of Monticello, and, unless we can drive all the enemy before us, our communication over so long a line will be eon- stantly interrupted. The marauding gangs of Champ. Ferguson, num- bering about 150, are from Wayne and Clinton Counties, and will in all probability give us much trouble I have written these facts, thinking it possible you may no* have been advised of them before Page 360 360 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. With an earnest hope that the plans of the commanding general may be entirely successful, and a disposition on my part to lend all my efforts to that end, I am, general, yours, respectfully, S. P. CARTER, Brigadier- General of Volunteers. (Forwarded by General Wilicox to General Burnside.) MAY 23, 1863. General CARTER, Somerset: Welshs brigade has been ordered to Columbia, by direction of Gen- eral Buruside. Sturgis division also has been ordered to halt at Crab Orchard. Cavalry from Columbia will soon occupy Jamestown, and watch Creelsborough and Burkesville You will please keep a good lookout, and prevent the enemy crossing at Robertsport and passing up by way of Liberty. I shall send an officer with the object to engi- neer any road work. For this you can press into service a small party of negroes. Is your ammunition sufficient ~ 0. B. WILLCOX. LEXINGTON, May 23, 1863. Colonel GILBERT, Mount Vernon, Ky.: Scouting party sent down from Owingsville report a rebel force, from 2,000 to 4,000, collecting at Whitesburg, Letcher County, for a raid toward the Ohio. They are said to be waiting for artillery. Please send out spies and others to ascertain the truth. I have just ordered two Tennesseeans (Messrs. Ross and Bell) to go after information in that quarter, and to report to you- but do not wait for them. Send back Major Eversole to Proctor, if he is still in Manchester. The troops are ordered to accumulate thirteen days rations of small- stores and forage, with fifteen to twenty days beef-cattle. If you have any trouble about your supplies, telegraph Lieutenant-ColOnel [John H.] Coale, chief commissary, at Stanford, as well as your division coin- mander. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General. MAY 23, 18636 a. m. Colonel IIARTRANFT, Lancaster: Please halt your command at Crab Orchard, and wait for further orders. 0. B. WILLCOX. MAY 23, 18636 a. m. General WELSH: Please move your command to Columbia without delay, and report your arrival there by telegraph, both at these headquarters and to Gen- eral Buruside, at Cincinnati. You will draw your supplies from Leb- anon. It is desirable that you move to Columbia as rapidly as possible without breaking dowu your command, as troops are waiting there to go to the front as soon as you relieve them. This will take you beyond the limits of my district, but I hope we may not be separated loi~g. 0. B. W1LLCOX Page 361 CHAr. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 361 HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, Cincinnati, Ohio, May 23, 1863. Brig. Gen. JULIUS WHITE, Commanding District of Eastern Kentucky: GENERAL The commanding general directs me to request that you will convey his thanks, for their promptness and gallantry, to the officers and soldiers who took part in the skirmish brought on by the rebel guerrillas firing into the steam transports on the 9th instant~ and also that you will thank, iu his name, the citizens of Catlettsburg for the ready and efficient aid they rendered the troops on this occasion. I have the honor to be, general, very respectfully, your ob~dient servant, LEWIS IR1CIIMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. SIGNAL STATION, Court-House, Triune, May 24, 186310.30 p. m. Lieutenant-Colonel FLYNT, Chief of Staff: Reports from the front state that two regiments left Cokimbia for Jackson, Miss. There is no force of consequence between this and Columbia and Shelbyville. The rebels have almost devastated the country. Great despondency is felt over the fall of Jackson. It is supposed an attempt will be made to retake it. BRANNAN, General. FRANKLIN, May 24, 1863. General R6SECRANS: My information is that the Mississippi and Texas troops left Spring Hill on Wednesday for Mississippi, but returned on Friday night. Their movements are very mysterious and difficult to develop. I am in hopes to learn everything to-night. Rebels say Mississippi has gone up a spout. G. GRANGER, Major- General. LEXINGTON, Ky., May 24, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: I think the problem of our success depends on transportation, be- sides establishing Coale at Stanford. I have just appointed Marsh assistant quartermaster and inspector of transportation in the field. He starts at 2 oclock for Nicholasville, where he will personally super- intend loading of the trains, condition of mules and wagons, fitness of wagon-masters, with a detail of soldiers to replace the incompetent, to discipline and instruct the drivers, and generally to accumulate sup- J)lies at Stanford and Crab Orchard. Gilbert reports many of his horses used up, but I will replace them and do everything else to drive things along. Has Dickerson sent the additional transportation? We have 293 wagons to supply the district. What would Scott or Taylor have thought of that in Mexico? 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General Page 362 362 icy., MID. AND t. T~NN., N. ALA.~ AND SW. VA. (~ILAP. ~XxV~ MOUNT VERNON, May 24, 1863. General WILLOOX: Captain Lysander [W.] Tulleys reconnaissance indicates no service- able artillery at Cumberland Gap. His detachment of 200 men was in plain sight, in easy cannon range, of the fortifications for some time, and no artillery was seen, except the large gun on the left-hand pinnacle, for which it is now said they have no ammunition, and was not manned at all. Captain Tulleys reports that the garrison, although entirely nnaware of his presence nutil his command emerged from the forest in plain sight, evinced the utmost coolness. He formed line of battle in front of their works, at the edge of the broken ground, and quietly awaited develop- ments. They showed only about 600 men. He captured 2 privates and 4 horses, and mortally wounded 1 man of the Sixth Georgia Cavalry, being their picket on the Baptist Gap road. Their other pickets were so well posted that the parties sent to capture them failed. Our only loss was 1 horse abandoned in the mountains. The composure of the garrison, in awaiting developments, indicates first-class troops and sup- ports close by. The pursuit, after our men commenced falling back, was ended by a volley from thirty of our rifles, which brought down 2 horses and several men. Captain Tulleys detachment crossed four high and very steep mountains, and marched 40 miles in less than twenty-four hours. They had to lead their horses about half the whole distance. SAMUEL A. GILBERT, Colonel, Commanding. HDQRS. THIRD DIVISION, FOIJRTEENTII ARMY CORPS, May 25, 186310 p. m. Lient. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, A. A. G. and Chief of & aff, Fourteenth Army Corps: Coxs regiment of cavalry from Rover have arrived at Chapel Hill, in place of Pattersons. Forrest was expected at Riggs cross-roads to-day or to-morrow. Respectfully, ~. ~. BRANKAN, Brigadier- General, Commanding. MEMPHIS, May 25, 18632 p. m. Major-General ROSECRANS: Spies at Corinth report that the rebel cavalry have orders to assemble at Columbia within five days. All forces below us are called to Vicks- burg. Grant is doing well; had Vicksburg closely invested on 22d, with about 20,000 men shut np there. Has captured 6,000 prisoners and seventy-four pieces of artillery. HURLB UT. - CINCINNATI, May 25, 1863. General BOYLE, Louisville, Ky.: The following two dispatches have just been received from Willcox: LExINGTON, May 25, 15635.30 a. in. 4Zleneral BuRNSIDE: The following just received from Somerset: I have just been advised that the rebels crossed the river at mouth of Fishing Creek this morning, and are now engaging the gaards of the FirstRcntueky Cavalry, who ave stationed there. Rave sen Page 363 ChAP. xxxvj COR1l1~SrONDLNcB, ETC.UNJON. 363 re-enforcements. Will keep you informed soon as I can obtain particulars. I have fears for the safety of the river guards below that point. Fishing Creek is about 5 miles above Mill Springs. CARTER, GeneraL 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier-General. LEXINGTON, May 25, 186310.30 a. m. General BURNSIDE: Following just received from Somerset: I have no further information that is reliable. I fear, however, that many of the river guards from mouth of Fishing Creek down the river have been killed or captured. They belong to First Kentucky Cavalry. Will it not be well to send First East Tennessee (mounted) Infantry to Liberty or vicinity to guard that line l CARTER. I have notified Byrd to get his regiment ready. Shall I send it? I have also a regiment ordered to Stanford from Second Division. Shall this or more force from Crab Orchard be pushed across? 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier-General. Please give such instructions as may be necessary. A. E. BIJRNSJDE, Major- General. LEXINGTON, May 25, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: The following just received from Somerset: Your dispatch, with General Burnsides, received. Have just heard from Colonel Kautz at mouth of Fishing Creek. Enemy were driven across the river by company of Forty-fifth Ohio, Captain Scott, who captured a captain, lieutenant, and sergeant. Colonel Kautz was moving toward Mill Springs. I hope we have received no further damage than the loss of a few careless guards, who, from all I can learn, permitted themselves to be surprised. Unless rebels have crossed below Mill Springs, there is no considerable force on this side river. I have scouts toward Jamestown and 17 miles up the Cumberland. I have no idea of falling back, and if rebels should get between this and Liberty they shall be punished. CARTER. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General. MAY 25, 1863. General WILLOOX: Tell General Carter that if the enemy are crossing in force at the mouth of Fishing Creek, he must move out and fight them; if they have already crossed and gone toward Liberty, he must detach a sufficient force to follow them. The whole thing is in his hands, and I feel satis- fied that he will not fail to use his force skillfully, and that be will not fall back until it is demonstrated that the safety of his command de- mands it. Keep the force at Crab Orchard ready to move at a moments notice. Send Byrd to Middleburg and Liberty, with instructions to hold the enemy in check if he moves in that direction, in order that Carter may be enabled to overtake him. Tell Carter to telegraph fre- quently during the day as to the state of affairs. The force at Colum- bia and Jamestown have been informed of this movement. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. MAY 25, 18031.20 p. m. General CARTER, Somerset: I have ordered Colonel Byrd to Middleburg and Liberty, and a small regiment of infantry (Fifty-first New York) to ilustonville. The rest o Page 364 364 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. the brigade have been ordered from Crab Orchard to Stanford, where Colonel l{artranft will make his headquarters. Burnside says: Tell General Carter that if the enemy are crossing in force at the mouth of Fishing Creek, he must move out and fight them; if they have already crossed and gone toward Liberty, he must detach a sufficient force to follow them. The whole thing is in his hands, and Ii feel satisfied that he will not fail to use his force skillfully, and that he will not fall back until it is demonstrated that the safety of his command demands it. Telegraph frequently during the day as to the state of affairs. There will still be a brigade left at Crab Orchard after one moves to Stanford. 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General. MAY 25, [1863.] Colonel COALE, Stanford: General Carter drove back the rebels to-day across the river. I do not think they crossed farther dowu. Send orders to officer command- ing detachment of the Thirty-sixth Massachusetts to move forward to Columbia as soon as Byrds Tennessee (mounted) troops reach Liberty, unless he hears the enemy are moving up, in which case he will remain to defend the road. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General. MAY 25, 1863Midnight. Colonel IIARTRANFT, Commanding Second Division, Crab Orchard: I sent word to you this morning, through Colonel Coale, to hold the brigade to which the Stanford regiment belongs in readiness to march. I find the Fifty-first New York has arrived at Stanford. You will, therefore, order the rest of the brigade at once to Stanford, and make that place the headquarters of your division. The other brigade will be kept in constant readiness to march also. if the rebels cross below Somerset, they may make a dash up the Liberty road. I have ordered the Fifty.first New York to Hustonville. 0. B. WILLOOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. CoRINTH, May 26, 1863. Major-General BOSECRANS, Murfreesborough: My cavalry will cross the Tennessee to-night at Hambarg, and push east to Waynesborough and Florence and attack enemy; also destroy all mills, forage, & c. I understand that all the enemys cavalry ou that side of the river have been ordered to Columbia, and they are moving that way. Two regiments of Roddeys force crossed at Florence last Friday. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier- General. FRANKLIN, May 26, 1863. General ROSECRANS: No news or changes in front, that I can ascertain. A party was out last night on the Carter Creek pike; killed 2 and wounded several, but obtained no information Page 365 CRAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC .UNION. 365 I hase two spies out, whom I expect in to-night. Hope to learn some- thing important. Have been much occupied in smashing up the grape- vine line and with good success. Will keep you advised if anything turns up. What is the news in your quarter and elsewhere l How is Grant, and where is he l G. GRANGER, Major- General. MEMPHIS, May 26, 18637.30 p. m. General ROSECRANS: The following is the last received from Grant, from near Yicksburg, May 22: Major-General HALLECK: Vicksbnrg is now completely invested. I have possession of Haines Bluff and the Yazoo; consequently have supplies. To-day an attempt was made to carry the city by assault, but was not entirely successful. We hold possession, however, of some of the enemys forts and have skirmishers close under them all Our loss was not severe. The nature of the ground about Yicksburg is such that it can only be taken by siege. It is entirely safe to us in time; I would say within one week, if the enemy do not send a larger army upon my rear. With the railroad destroyed to beyond Pearl River, I dont see the hope the enemy can entertain of such relief. I learn that Davis has promised, if the garrison can hold out fifteen days, he will send 100,000 men, if lie has to evacuate Tennessee to do it. S. A. HURLBUT, Major- General. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 143. f Murfreesborough, Teun., May 26, 1863. * * * * * * * XVIII. Brig. Gen. H. S. Granger will report to Brigadier-General Morgan, commanding at Nashville, who will assign him to the command of the troops at that post. By command of Major-General IRosecrans: II. THIRALL, Captain and Assietant Adjutant- General. MAY 26, [1863]4 p. m. General CARTER: Your dispatches received. I have ordered Gilbert, if report of rebel force marching on Barboursville be confirmed, to concentrate his troops and attack first favorable opportunity. Your two cavalry companies are probably at Liberty. I will order them to you. Byrd is probably there to-day. The prominent Union citizens of Stanford have petitioned that Captain Simpson, Seventh Ohio, be retained there. Unless you object, he will be kept there at present. 0. B. WILLCOX, Brigadier- General. WAR DRPARTMENT, May 27, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, iiiturfreesborough, Tenn.: Have you anything from Grant I Where is Forrests headquarters? A. LINCOLN Page 366 366 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. MIJEFItEESBOROUGH, TE~., May 27, 186310.15 p: m. President LINCOLN, President of the United States: According to our latest news, Forrests headquarters were at Spring Hill yesterday, and moved to Riggs cross-roads, 18 miles southwest of here, to.day. The latest from Grant we have is of the rebel dispatch last night, saying that Johnston had crossed the Big Black north of him with 20,000 men. They were not jubilant at 2 oclock to-day, when onr provost-marshal was on their front, talking to Dr. Avent, Braggs chief surgeon. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. TRIUNE, May 27, 18633.40 p. m. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD: I have the following information from very reliable sources: The rebels have two divisions of infantry, with artillery in proportion and five brigades of cavalry, in addition to Forrests cavalry command of 5,000 strong, between Riggs cross-roads and Spring Hill, advancing cautiously. The brigade reported to have gone sonth went from Shel- byville to Fayetteville, and from there to Columbia. Forrest moved his headquarters to Riggs cross-roads to-day. The rebels have three pontoon bridges across Duck River, between Chapel Hill and Coluin- bia. Johnstons dispatch to Bragg yesterday stated that he had nearly annihilated Grants army, and that Vicksburg is entirely safe. Fridays fighting Grant had the advantage. Saturdays was without result. Sunday and Monday Johnston beat Grant. J. M. BRANNAX, Brigadier- General, Commanding. SIGNAL STATION, Court-House, May 27, 186312 midnight. General GARFIELD: I have ordered out my entire cavalry force in the direction of Spring Hill and Franklin pike. Will report on their return. BRANKAN, General. CARTHAGE, May 27, 1863. Brig. Gen. JAMES A. GARFIELD Chief ~:?f Staff: No movements of the enemy to communicate. Seventeen of the mail party spoken of before were captured. Two of the enemy killed. I have an expedition now at Hartsville. Contraband women are coming in in such numbers that I cannot afford to feed them. What can I do with them? Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Bri~qadier- General Page 367 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 367 FRANKLIN, May 27, 1863. Major-General IItOSECRANS: General Brannan telegraphs that I will be attacked in force to-day or to-morrow. Have you any such information ~? Yours, G. GKRANGER. [Indorseinents.] HEADQUALRTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, May 27, 1863. General [THOMAS]: The general commanding wishes to know if you have any such in- .formation as is contained within. 1 am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, C. R. THOMPSON, Captain and Assistant Adjutant- General. HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, May 27, 1863. I have no such information. GEO. H. THOMAS, Major- General, Commanding. FRANKLIN, May 27, 186312.20 a. m. Major-General ROSECRANS: I can threaten Spring Hill. Keep me informed of the probable time when Dodge will attack the enemy. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, G. GIRANGER, Major- General. MEMPHIS, May 27, 18639 p. m. General ROSECRANS: No official dispatches from Yicksburg since my last to you. The city is closely invested. Nothing can save it except a heavy force attack- ing Grant in the rear. Our batteries are playing all day and night. It is believed the works at Vicksburg are so strong that assault is out, of the question. It has been tried without good success. I think the city must have fallen by to-day. Will advise you as soon as anything comes. S. A. HURLBUT, Major- General. HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES, Breutwood, May 27, 1863. (Received 3.30 a. in.) General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: SIR: Inclosed please find dispatch sent through to me by couriers from General Granger, and which I forward to Nashville by same means, as the line is down: HEADQUARTERS OF KENTUCKY, May 27, 1S63. Colonel MCCooK: The telegraph wires are cut somewhere. Send a party through to Nashville at once, .axu~I telegraph to Geueral J~osecrans that I are to be attacked to-morrow in large forci Page 368 368 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. upon the Columbia and Lewisbnrg pike. It is important that you advise me promptl~r if your party is cut off or fails to reach Nashville, and also if telegraphic communica- tion is cut off between Nashville and Murfreesborough, and where the break is, if it can be ascertained. Hold yourself ready for any emergency. The rebels are reported to be advancing with two divisions of infantry and artillery in proportion; also nine brigades of cavalry. Total, about 25,000 men. We expect to give them a fight, and do our best. If you are cut off by their cavalry from joining us, harass them in the rear and flank. Try to keep open communication with me, if possible. G. GRANGER, Major-General. No enemy is in my immediate neighborhood yet. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, DANIEL MoCOOK, Colonel, Commanding United & ates Forces at Brentwood. CIRCULAR.] IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, - llJiurfreesborough, May 27, 1863. Major-General THOMAS, Commanding Fourteenth Army Corps: SIR: The major-general commanding directs you to hold your com- mand in readiness to march at a moments warning, with rations and forage for tive days. You will see that your command is fully supplied with ammunition. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. A. GARFIELD Brigadier- General and Chief of ~taff. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPT. OF THE OUMBERLAND, No. 144. f ]ifurfreesborough, Tenn., May 27, 1863. * * * * * * * IV. Brigadier-General Willich, U. S. Volunteers, is assigned to and will at once assume command of the First Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: II. THRALL, Captain and Assistant Adjutant-General. MURPREESBOROUGH, May 27, 18631 p. m Major-General BURNSIDE: I am very anxious to know how soon your troops will reach their des- tination. The time appears ripe for a movement here, and much de- pends upon the position of your bwces. Please answer at once. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. LOUISVILLE, May 27, 18637.50 p. m. General ROSECRANS: I have been waiting for a reply to a message sent you a few days since, stating that I did not understand that we were to send three re Page 369 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 369 iments to Nashville, in a(ldition to the two regiments and a battery to Carthage, supposing that llartsuff was to look out for the region about Carthage. Answer here to-night, if possible. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major- General. INDIANAPOLIS, INn., Hon. E. M. STANTON, ]IIay 27, 186311 p. m. Secretary of War: General Hascall is still in command here. I hope you will see that your order for his removal is executed at once. It is important. 0. P. MORTON, Governor of indiana. INDIANArOLIS, INn., May 27, 186311 p. m. Hon. E. M. STANTON, Secretary of War: I have been for several weeks, and am, perfectly satisfied that the immediate removal of General ilascall is demanded by the honor and interests of the Government. DAVID. DAVIS, Judge of Sul2reme Gourt, Major-General ROSECRANS, WASHINGTON, May 28, 1863. Murfreesborough, [Penn.: I would not push you to any rashness, but I am very anxious that you do your utmost, short of rashness, to keep il3ragg from getting oft to help Johnston against Grant. A. LINCOLN. MURFREESEOROIJGII, TENN., May 28, 1863. His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, (Received May 291.25 a. in.) President of the United States; Dispatch received. I will attend to it. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major. General. l~IURFREESEOROIJGH, TENN., May 28, 186310.58 p. m. Secretary STANTON: Our best advices to.night show that one brigade of MeCowns division had started south, but returned last Thursday. The rest of their troops are in position, except Breckinridges-, which moved or went south. Doubt about their going south arises from the appearance yesterday of a brigade of infantry near Bradyville, 11 miles hence, said to be [Joseph B.] Palmers, which we know to be one of Breckinridges. Forrest has gone with no large force, if at all. Reports from Corinth to-day say that all the cavalry on the Tennessee had been ordered to Columbia, 40 miles southeast from here; that Roddey crossed the Tennessee at Florence 24 R RVOL XXIII, PT ~ Page 370 370 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [Ca~r. XXXV. with two regiments on Friday last; that all the cavalry at Okolona, Miss., was under marching orders to Johnston last Thursday. To reach Grant from rebel position, it would require a march of nearly 400 miles. W. S. IROSECIIAKS. MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., iJillay 28, 186311 p. m. Secretary STANTON: The following dispatch just received from Maj. Gen. G. Granger, Franklin, Teun.: Forrest was in Spring Hill yesterday afternoon. I do not know what force has gone to re-enforce rebels in Mississippi. We have been looking all day for an attack. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. CORINTH, May 28, 18638.30 p. m. Major.General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough: Iloddey was crossing to north side of river. The force was in Okolona np to Sunday night, but was said to have marching orders from John- ston. It was also said Wood had been placed in command of mounted force. Johnston was receiving re-enforcements up to the 23d. He was then northwest of Jackson, near Big Black. Most of the troops going to him came by the way of Salem. I have not heard from Muscle Shoals, but shall in one or two days. I think that there is no doubt about the cavalry on the east side of the river being ordered to Colum- bia. Four regiments that crossed when Wood did are still at Okolona. If you hear from my force, please inform me. As near as the scout can ascertain, Johnston had about 15,000 men. This included Greggs and Walkers brigades. It was said they were waiting for more to come up. G. M. DODGE, _____ Brigadier-General. MUEFREESBOROUGH, May 28, 1863. Major-General BURNSIDE: I send to-day a letter inclosing a route for cavalry through East Tennessee and Georgia; also copies of telegrams in reference to the exchan~e of Tennessee troops. Substantially what Colonel Loring cx- plainedto you was, that I wished Hartsuff to hold Carthage, and sug- gested that, supposing the exchange made, your Tennessee regiments, with two additional regiments and a battery, would suffice. If the regi- ments you give me in exchange for the Tennessecans can report more easily at Carthage, let them report to General Crook. As soon as this is done, the Tennesseeans under General Spears will report to you. W. S. ROSECRANS. MURFILEESBOIIOUGH, TENN., May 28, 18634.30 p. m. E. M. STANTON: Our cavalry went yesterday p. m. to find Forrest, at Eagleville, and the scouts report he wa~ not there. Had you heard any news which prompted your question of last night? W. S. ROSECRANS Page 371 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 371 WAR DEPARTMENT, .Miay 29, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough: My inquiry as to Forrests headquarters was to trace a rumor of dis- aster to Grant, said to have come from Forrests headquarters, which has been ascertained to be untrue. Much apprehension is felt in the North that the enemy would escape from your front and fall on Grant, and we were, on that ground, also anxious to know where Forrest is, for reports-say he has gone south for that purpose. EDWIN M. STANTON. MEMPHIS, May 29, 1863. General ROSECRANS: Grant, on the 25th, had not taken Yicksburg. It is now. a siege. He apprehended re-enforcements to Johnston, who has now from 6,000 to 10,000 men west of Yicksburg. I am ordered to send cavalry to Gren- ada, and all spare infantry to Vicksburg. Shall send twelve regiments as soon as they can be transported. S. A. IIURLBUT, Major- General. NASHVILLE, May 29, 18638.50 a. m. General GARFIELD, Chief of & aff: I left Knoxville on Wednesday of last week, 20t~h instant, for Nash- ville, via Chattanooga and Shelbyville. General Buckner was in corn- mand of Knoxville. He has considerable force stationed on the road to Cumberland Gap Mountain, Big Creek Gap, Clinton, Kingston, and Loudon. General Buckner came to Knoxville and took command about one week before I left. From their conversation, they deem themselves quite secure at Chat- tanooga. I saw but few troops. The fortifications being poor, the bridges and roads from Chattanooga to Tullahoma are all guarded; but Jseenoconsiderableforceateitheroftheguardposts. At Tullahoma I saw quite a number of troops; I saw a greater num- ber at Wartrace; the fortifications at both points being strong. At Shel- byville, on Friday evening and Saturday, there was a movement of troops across the river, going, as I learned, in the direction of lVlurfrees- borough, to meet General IRosecrans, who, it was stated, had made an advance movement. Between Farmington and Lewisburg there is a force of several regiments. I saw no more troops until I reached the picket lines, where Coxs regiment of cavalry is stationed. On Friday there was great excite- ment at Shelbyville, and great stir among the troops. On Saturday the troops were moving all day, and on Sunday the place was cleared of troops. I did not see even the picket guard. I did not go out of the town to gather information. M. B. LEE., [Indorsement.] Mrs. Lee is the wife of Mr. Lee of $10,000 notoriety. II. W. FYFFE, Captain of Police Page 372 372 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. MURFREESBOROUGH, May 29, 186312 m. Major-General BuRNsIDE: Please let me know exact position of your troops. When will they be at Carthage and Jamestown? My own movements are awaiting yours. The position of affairs in front may make it necessary for you to push on to MeMinuville. Please hold your troops in readiness, should this be necessary. W. S. LIOSECRAKS, Major. General. LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 29, 186310.40 a. m. (Received 12 in.) His Excellency ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President of the United States: It is believed that the Third Division of the Ninth Army Corps, at Suf- folk, General Getty commanding, had better be added to Burnsides command. We hope this can be done, as it will enable him to prose- cute with success the expedition into East Tennessee. This part of the State should be entered. The oppressions and inhumanity inflicted are indescribable, and must be redressed. If the Government dQes not give that protection guaranteed by the Constitution, the Tennessee forces should be massed and permitted to enter East Tennessee. This they will do though they perish to a man in the attempt. This sum- mer should not pass without protection being extended. General Burn- side is in high spirits, and confident of being able to enter the State. I have received much encouragement in getting up forces, and think I shall succeed. ANDREW JOHNSON. WASHINGTON, May 29, 1863. Gov. ANDREW JOHNSON, Louisville, Ky.: General Burnside has been frequently informed lately that the division under General Getty cannot be spared. I am sorry to have to tell you this, but it is true, and cannot be helped. A. LINCOLN. LA VERGNE, May 30, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANS: Guard at Mill Creek Bridge No. 3 reported a small body of rebels, about 30, crossing the railroad track early this a. in., at the point where train was captured on 10th of last month. A small party was seen yes- terday by trackmen near same place. I have notIfied General Steed ~ man. Engine was thrown from track here last night. Have it now on. Will not delay trains much. Engine not damaged. J. B. ANDERSON, [Railroad Superintendent.] FRANKLIN, May 30, 1863. General ROSECRANS: One of my scouts, in from Chapel Hill, Caney Spring, Bethesda, and Spring Hill, reports that about one-half of Braggs force has gone to Mississippi; that the country is filled with small parties of cavalry, an Page 373 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.IJNION. 373 that Forrest is at Spring Hill, with about 5,000 men. Colonel MeCook reports that Forrest intends to attack him at Brentwood, and is mov- ing through Hilisborough. I am inclined to doubt this latter, but hope it is true. G. GIRANGER, llfajor- General. ME1vTHIS, ]Ifay 30, 1863. General ROSECRANS: The following dispatch has just been received from General Dodge: Colonel Cornyn met Roddeys command 1 mile this side of Caisson. Fought and whipped him badly. Took 100 prisoners, 8 commissioned officers, 400 head of stock, 200 able-bodied negroes, and took the town of Caisson. Thursday, immediately ad- vanced north, burned the cotton (enemys), foundry, and flour mills, with large q nan- tities of produce, cloth, and grain. He also destroyed all the forage in the country, and is now recrossing the river. He surprised the enemy. The expedition was a success. Scouts that went out with Cornyn bring rebel papers up to the 24th of May. They speak of re-enforcements going from Georgia to Johnston. Scouts say that, as far as they can learn, troops were leaving Bragg up to the 25th. Wagon trains crossed (the river] going south a week ago. Cornyn had a few men killed and wounded, and only 3 missing. MEMPHIS, May 30, 18639 p. m. General Oglesby reports that Johnston has received re-enforcements as follows: From Bragg, 20,000; from Port Hudson, 10,000; from Mobile, 6,700. This is undoubtedly incorrect, or it relates to the whole force drawn from those points, instead of late re-enforcements. Two railroad engineers (left Canton on Wednesday, arrived at La Grange to-day) state that Johnston is at Jackson with 13,000 men. One of them heard say that ID. H. Hill was on the way from Virginia with 18,000 men; said that he would attack Grant in rear, in five days. Crossings over Pearl River are being constructed. S. A. HURLBUT, Major-General. MEMPHIS, May 30, 18631.30 p. m. Maj. Gen. W. S. ROSECRANS: The following dispatch is just received from General Oglesby, at Grenada: I have information from a source I cannot mention, but reliable, that Johnston has 70,000 men, and will soon attack Grant. The force is probably mostly from Bragg. I will try to find out to-day. R. J. OGLESBY, No boat up from below as yet. Brigadier-General. S. A. HURLBUT, - Major- General. MAY 30, 1863. General ROSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: I have one column concentrated at Columbia, with the advance at Jamestown; one at Somerset, with the advance at Waitsborongh; one at Crab Orchard, and one at London and Mount Vernon, with outposts at Barboursville, Cumberland Ford, and Manchester. Orders are now out for concentrating the first three columns for the movement you speak of and I leave this place for the front on Tuesday. I am anx- iously awaiting your letter, after the receipt of which I will start Page 374 374 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. bearer of dispatches to you at once. Hartsuff has great difficulty in con~ ceutrating his troops in consequence of lack of transportation. Your re- quisitions for mules and horses have been so great that we have not been able to organize our own trains. He will not be at the point we agreed upon with his troops in time to relieve the Tennessee regiments at Carthage; so that our first move will have to be made without them. We will not be able to use your pack-mule train unless they have pan. niers. The first column will move without reference to Hartsuff. if there is occasion for special haste in order to co.operate with you, let me know definitely. A. E. BUIRNSJDE, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. TWENTIETH ARMY CORPS, No. 21. J Murfreesborough, Tenn., May 30, 1863. The following officers are announced as the staff of the major-general commanding this corps: Lient. Col. G. P. Thruston, assistant adjutant- general and chief of staff; Maj. Caleb Bates, aide-decamp; Capt. B. D. Williams, aide-de-camp; Capt. Frank J. Jones, aide-de-camp and as- sistant adjutant and inspector general; Capt. H. N. Fisher, volunteer aide-de-camp and topographical engineer; Lient. Col. J. F. Boyd, as- sistant quartermaster; Lieut. Col. G. W. Burton, assistant commissary of subsistence; Maj. C. S. Cotter, First Ohio Artillery, chief of artillery; Capt. S. B. Lawrence, Sixteenth U. S Infantry, assistant commissary of musters.; Capt. A. C. McClurg, Eighty-eighth Illinois, acting assistant adjutant-general and ordnance officer; Maj. J. Perkins, surgeon Tenth Kentucky, medical director; Asst. Surg. J. W. Craig, Tenth Illinois, medical purveyor; Capt. George L. Hayward, First Ohio, provost-mar- shal, and First Lient. B. iR. Wood, senior signal officer. A. MoD. MoCOOK Major-General, Commanding. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 78. f Cincinnati, Ohio, May 30, 1863. I. Brig. Gen. N. C. McLean, U. S. Volunteers, is hereby appointed provost-marshal-general of this department, and will be obeyed and respected accordingly. II. The headquarters of the provost-marshal-general will be in Cin- cinnati, Ohio, and all communications addressed to him will be sent through the provost-marshals of districts. Wherever these are not appointed, they will be sent direct. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. MURFREESEOROTTGH, TENN., - May 31, 18631 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECIC, General-in-Chief: Coburns brigade appears to be scattered, as follows: Nineteenth Michigan, at Columbus, Ohio; Thirty-third and Eighty-fifth Indiana, at Indianapolis; Twenty-second Wisconsin, at Benton Barracks, Saint Louis. By whose orders this is done I know not; but, unless they ar Page 375 dRAP. xxxv.] CORRtSPONDENCt, J3~TC.UNtON. 375 soon concentrated, they will be lost to this command. We have arms and everything necessary to equip them for the field, and, if exchanged, they should be sent here without delay. W~ S. ROSECIRAKS, Major- General. LEXrt~1GTON, May 31, 186310.30 p. m. Major-General BURNsWE: Gilberts brigade occupies such a position that it cannot be removed safely without being immediately replaced, unless the advanced column moves on a line much farther to the eastward than the one proposed. I am anxious to complete the organization of the corps as such, and cannot do it until I know definitely all the troops that will compose it. Gen- eral orders from department headquarters puts me in command of the corps, except those troops serving with the Ninth Corps from military necessity, but does not state what they are, and it being the only pub- lished order or orders on the subject, is why 1 asked to have the regi- ments excepted enumerated. Why not simplify and settle the matter completely by announcing all the troops in Kentucky, without any other exception than the Ninth Corps, as composing the Twenty-third Corps in the terms of the War Department order, and then by special order detach Carters division, or any part of it, or any other portion of the corps, when and for as long as may be necessary? This would obviate every difficulty connected with the organization, and not interfere at all with present or future intentions. GEG. L. HARTSUFF, Major-General. CONFIDENTIAL.] HDQRS. DISTRICT OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, Lexington, Ky., May 31, 1863. Maj. Gen. AMBRoSE E. BURNSIDE, Commanding Department: GENERAL: The expedition I have the honor to propose is to destroy Loudon Bridge, distant 130 miles from Somerset. It is a railroad bridge, some 500 feet long, and its destruction would cut the railroad from Knoxville to Braggs army. There are said to be six pieces of artillery, probably brass field, two on one side and four 011 the other, and some stockades. The guard is a variable force, sometimes small and some- times as many as three regiments. We can get information from there at almost any time. I would first make a move toward Monticello and Albany (and perhaps a demonstration toward Cumberland Gap), so as to draw them off, but not to drive them out, for if driven out of these places they would fall back to Clinton and Kingston, and thus cut off our expedition. The force, to consist of 1,500 men and two rifled guns, should move down the Big South Fork of the Cumberland, by the Ridge road, through Montgomery. This route leads through Union counties. The return route of the expedition would have to depend upon the infor- mation they obtained. They might return by the Ridge road, and op- erate in rear of the enemy, cutting his lines of supply and communica- tion, or through Big Creek Gap; or, if Knoxville is stripped of troops, they might go up to Strawberry Plains, and burn the trestle bridges there, some 2 miles in extent. The stock would have to feed on grass, but at the start could take sacks of grain on the horses. Very respectfully, 0. B. WJLLCOX, Brigadier- General, Commanding Page 376 ~76 KY., i~mi. ANL E. TENN, N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAr. XXXV. CINCINNATI, ]Jfay 31, 1863. General WILLOox, Lexington, l17y.: Give orders to have your officers baggage cut down to the lowest possible amount. In my staff I have limited it to 30 pounds baggage. The men should not be allowed to take more than one change of under- clothing and an extra pair of shoes; the remainder of their clothing should be nicely packed, marked distinctly, and sent to the depot at Hickman Bridge. Let this be seen to by the regimental officers to- morrow, and surplus baggage all arranged and started to the rear on Tuesday morning. The officers should see that every package is dis- tinctly marked. Men should be required on starting to carry in haver- sacks three days provisions, and in the surplus room in knapsacks five days hard bread and small rations. Distribute this order by telegraph to-night. Welsh and Morrison can send their surplus things to Lebanon, and thence by rail, under charge of an officer and two or three men, to Njcholasville, via Louisville, and thence to camp at Hickman Bridge. A. E. BUENSIDE, Major- General. MTJRFREESEOROUGII, May 31, 1863. Major-General BUENSIDE, Gommanding Department of the Ohio: While waiting your answer to my last dispatch, I deem it proper to say that I wish to make a forward movement within the next four days. It is of the utmost importance that your force be as far to the front as possible, so as to protect my left flank and be prepared to support me by an advance on McMinnville,if necessary. I inquired aboat your transportation and supplies, because we may be able to unite our forces and move straight on Chattanooga. W. S. IROSECRAKS, Major- General. CINCINNATI, May 31, 18636 p. m. General IROSECRANS: The pack-mules all have to be loaded before starting. I had rather have them at Lebanon than at aiiy other place. Can they be sent there by the return cars from your place? If so, please send them at once. I can concentrate the Ninth Corps at Monticello in two or three days, from whence we can march direct. We are very deficient in transportation, but still can move at once- [What] kind of pannier have the pack-mules? I understood by one of your telegrams that you had sent a letter explaining some roads for the cavalry to take, which was the letter that I referred to. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major-General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPT. OF TUE CUMLEERLAND, No. 124. f Murfreesborough, Tenn., May 31, 1863. I. Capt. W. E. Merrill, having relieved Capt. K. Michler, ihief topo- graphical engineer at these headquarters, is announced as engineer officer in charge of the topographical department, reporting to Brig Page 377 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 377 Gen. J. St. C. Morton, chief engineer of the department. All corps, division, and brigade topographers will be under the professional direc- tion of Captain Merrill. IT. The following instructions will be obeyed by all concerned: 1st. Each brigade topographical engineer will report every Monday morning to the division topographical engineer his operations for the past week, with copies of all special maps and reconnaissances (corn. plete or not) made by him or under his direction, includkig all verbal or written topographical information. Each division topographical engineer will consolidat~ the reports from the brigade topographers, and forward therewith his individual report to the corps topographical engineer every Tuesday morning. Each corps topographical engineer will forward the consolidated topographical report of his corps to the topographical office at these headquarters every Wednesday morning. 2d. In the first weekly report each corps topographical engineer will send in to Captain Merrills office an accurate list of all topographical officers and assistants in his corps, together with a return of all instru- ments and drawing materials now in their possession, and an estimate of whatever is necessary to complete the equipment of the topograph. ical parties in each corps. These lists will be obtained from the divis- ion topographers, who will in turn obtain them from the brigade topog. raphers. 3d. The special field for the labor of the topographical parties of each corps will be indicated b~ Captain Merrill to the chief topographical officer of each corps, who will be responsible that the work is properly subdivided and carried out by division and brigade topographers. Such special instructions as may be found necessary will be corn muni- cated from time to time by a circular from the topographical office at these headquarters. 4th. The interests of the whole army being superior to that of any portion of it, and perfect harmony and concert of action being neces- sary in the topographical department, in order to secure efficiency and prevent a waste of labor, all commanders of brigades, divisions, and corps are enjoined to give every assistance to the topographical officers of their staffs in carrying out their professional instructions, and not to give them any other duty to perform while there is any topographical work laid out, but unfinished. 5th. They will give precedence in work to that ordered through the proper channels from these headquarters, and then, in succession, to work ordered from their corps or division headquarters. Afterward, to prevent these appointments from being places of refuge for the idle and worthless, commanding officers will employ their topographical officers on any local topographical duty which may suggest itself, such as mapping their camps or picket line, & c. 6th. The scale on which maps will be drawn will be regulated as fol- lows: For an area of 2 miles square or less, 6 inches to the mile; for an area of over 2 and nuder 4 miles, 4 inches to the mile; for an area of over 4 and under 8 miles, 2 inches to the mile; for an area of over 8 miles square, 1 inch to the mile. The magnetic meridian and scale must always be carefully noted upon all maps. 7th. When any command is on detached service for a week or more, its topographical officer will send his reports direct to these headquarters. By command of Major-General Iltosecrans: C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant- General Page 378 378 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CaM. XXkV Abstract front return of the Department of the Cumberland, Maj. Gen. William S. Bosecrans commanding, for the month of May, 1863; headquarters Murfreesborough, lean. +~ a Present for .~ a ~ Pieces of a duty. artillery. a ~a P~0 a Command. a o.~ ~ 4~C5 ~ 5 5 be b~~ a ~ o . b~ l~. ~ a be be be 5 0 be be ~ 0 0 o ~ Department staff 10th Ohio, Col. Joseph W. Burke 1st Battalion Ohio Sharpshooters, Capt. Gershom M. Barber. 21 27 S 24 33 34 432 578. 046 649 168 230 309 321 Total 32 600 . 808 955 970 Fourteenth Army Corps, Maj. Gen. George H. Thomas: Staff 9th Michigan, Col. John G. Parkhurst First Division, Itfaj. Gen. Lovell H. Rousseau. Second Division, Maj. Gen. James S. Negley.. Third Division, Brig. Gen. John M. Brannan. Fourth Division, Brig. Gen. Roht. S. Granger. Fitth Division, Maj. Gen. Joseph J. Reynolds Total Fourteenth Army Corps Twentieth Army Corps, Msj. Gen. Alexander McD. McCook: Staff. First Division, Brig. Gen. Jefferson C. Davis. Second Division, Brig. Gen. Richard W. John- son. Third Divisiou,* Maj. Gen. Philip H. Sher. idan. Cavalry Total Twentieth Army Corps Twenty-first Army Corps. Maj. Gen. Thomas L. Crittenden: Staff First Division, Brig. Gen. Thomas J. Wood.. Second Division, Maj. Gen. John MI. Palmer. Third Division, Brig. Gen. Horatio P. Van Clove. Total Twenty.first Army Corps United States forces, Ma.j. Gen. Gordon Granger: Staff Brig. Gen. Absalom Bairds division Brig. Gen. Charles C. Gilberts division Brig. Gen. George Crooks division. Company F, 1st Missouri Cavalry, Capt. James Clifford. 4th Battalion Pioneer Brigade, Capt. Patrick OConnell.t Total Major.General Grangers command. Forces at Nashville, Brig. Gen. James D. Morgan. Forces at Gallatin, Brig. Gen. Eleazer A. Paine.. Forces at Clarksville, CoL Sanders D. Bruce Forces at Fort Donelson, Col. William P. Lyon.. 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics, CoL William P. inues. 15th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Col. William J. Pal. mer. Engineers, Mechanics, and Pioneers Brigade, General J. St. Clair Morton, commanding: Artillery attached to Pioneers Pioneer Brigade Signal Corps, Capt. Jesse Merrill. Convalescents.t Capt. Ralph Hunt Spears Bri2ade, Brig. Gen. James G. Spears Cavalry Corps, Maj. Gen. David S. Stanley 7 7 9 9 18 101 427 484 495 28t 4, 781 6, 045 8, 762 9, 380 18 283 4,136 5,242 8,005 8,182 18 381 7,034 8,624 10,614 11,409 16 367 6, 203 7, 570 8, 914 9, 198 12 241 3,707 4,594 5,700 5,850 ..::i:! 16 1,578 26,162 32.509 42,488 44,523 80 7 7 7 5 267 3, 883 4, 923 7, 257 7, 414 18 356 5,111 6,312 9,726 9,830 18 292 4, 227 5, 353 7, 970 8, 019 18 421 922 13, 221 16, 595 24, 960 25, 089 54 12 12 13 13 . 329 3, 921 5, 019 8, 376 8, 467 18 304 4, 659 5, 760 7, 924 8, 088 22 278 3, 758 4, 829 7, 314 7, 490 18 923 15, 338 15, 620 23, 627 24, 058 58 9. 9 9 10 6 169 3, 018 3, 901 7, 363 7, 505 12 120 2, 124 2, 936 3, 975 4, 109 6 119 2,411 3,242 3,791 6,346 6 3 82 88 94 172 9 206 238 243 241 . 420 7, 635 10, 176 15, 232 18,142 6 24 184 139 66 lii 18 27 4 75 44 18 90 332 2, 995 2, 174 1, 064 2, 041 522 436 162 1, 600 127 583 1, 131 4, 629 3,742 2, 773 1,580 2,710 704 569 190 2,174 175 1,133 1, 591 6, 419 * Reported with cavalry division. f Not included in grand total. 4,497 3, 569 1, 769 2, 927 852 760 224 2,784 186 1,387 2, 188 9, 461 3,605 3, 655 1,786 2, 979 843 805 359 2,71t 186 1, 724 9,461 27 1 4 6 10 5 4 10 12 9. tNot included in total Page 379 CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 379 Abstract from return of the Department of the Gumberland, 4~c.Continned. IIECAPITULATION. 4. Present for -43 ~ ~ Pieces of H ~ duty. o ~ artillery. ~ ~4g ,~ H, Ci Command. ~ CS CS CS~ be bE~ be 0 0 ~H 0 ~ H 0 be be be 0 ~ o ~ .e4 -~ -~ ~ Department staff 21 24 33 34 - .. -. . 10th Ohio and Battalion Sharpshooters 32 600 808 955 970 Fourteenth Army Corps. 1,578 26,162 32, 509 42,488 44, 523 80 Twentieth Army Corps 922 13,221 16, 595 24, 960 25, 689 54 Twenty-first Army Corps 923 12, 338 15, 620 23, 627 24, 058 58 Major-General Grangers command 420 7,635 10, 176 15, 232 18, 142 6 24 Forces at Nashville 184 2, 995 3, 742 4, 497 3, 605 27 10 Forces at Gallatin -- - - 139 2, 174 2, 773 3, 569 3, 655 1 5 Forces at Clarkaville 66 1, 064 1, 580 1, 769 1, 786 4 4 Forces at Fort Donelson. 111 2, 041 2, 710 2, 927 2, 979 6 10 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics 18 522 704 852 843 15th Pennsylvania Cavalry - 27 436 569 760 805 .. Artillery attached to Pioneers 4 162 190 224 359 12 Brigadier-General Spears brigade. 90 1, 131 1, 591 2, 188 Cavalry Corps 332 4, 629 6, 419 9,461 9,461 9 Total 4 867 75, 110 96, 010 133, 542 136, 909 44 266 Abstract from return of the Department of the Ohio, Maj. Geue. Ambrose E. Burnside com- manding, for the month of Miay, 1863; headquarters Cincinnati, Ohio. 4. - Present for -.3 H ~ duty. H ~ ~ ~-.3 U p4 Ci Command. -~ ~ CH~ CS CS be be~ ~ PC oH si 0 . ~CS n be i 0 be be ~ 0 ~ -~ -~ ~ Department staff (Cincinnati, Oblo) - District of Central Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Orlando B. Willeox: Staff (Lexington, Ky.) First Division, Ninth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Thomas Welsh (Columbia, Ky). Second Division, Ninth Army Corps, Col. fohn F. ]Iartranft (Stanford, Ky). Fourth Division, Ninth Army Corps, Brig. Gen. Samuel P. Carter (Somerset, Ky). Owingaville, Lexington, Frankfort, & c Total District of Central Kentucky District of Eastern Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Julius White: Staff (Louisa, Ky.) Troops in district Total District of Eastern Kentucky - District of Western Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Jeremiah T. Boyle: Staff (Louisville, Ky.) - Bowling Green, Ky., Brig. Gem Henry M. Judak --....~..-- - Russelivalle, Ky., Brig. Gem J. hE. Shackelford (otherpomts) - Columbia, Ky., Col. David Morrison . Columbia and Glasgow Total District of Western Kentucky.... District of Illinois, Brig. Gen. Jacob Ammen: Staff (Springfield, flI.) Camp Butler, CoL William F. Lynch, (near Springfield, Ill) - Camp Douglas (near Chicago, Ill.) Total District of filinois .~ 32 32 34 17 17 19 -. 229 3,745 4,571 6,008 6 208 3,302 4,051 5,914 10 404 7, 505 9, 204 12, 281 24 169 3, 319 3, 913 4, 920 24 1, 027 17, 871 21,756 29, 142 64 6 6 6.. 109 1,892 2,302 2,690 i2 115 1,892 2,308 2,696 12 11 7 18 18 . 80 1,040 1, 541 2, 213 11 358 5,770 8,086 10,882 19 91 1,674 2,093 3,027 149 2,642 3,501 5,011 - 689 11,133 15,239 21,151 30 3 3 6 6 1 29 682 1,011 1 424 5 93 129 ~ 37 778 1,146 1,564r 1 CHAP. XXXV. Page 380 380 KY., MID. AND F. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXIV Ab8tract from return of the Department of the Ohio, 4-c.Continued. Present for ~ ~ H 0 duty. ~ 0 ;~ p,H ~ p4 Q Command. H H0 .5 us 0 ~ QH 0 . 0 o H us o us us ~ 0 ~. -~ ~ p~. District of Indiana, Brig. Gen. Mio S. Hascall: Staff (Indianapolis, md.) 4 . 4 4 Troops in district - 63 1, 984 2, 236 3, 392 Total District of Indiana 67 1, 984 2, 240 3, 396 . District of Ohio, Brig. Gen. Jacob D. Con: Staff (Cincinnati, Ohio, and at other points) 9 9 9 Columbus, Brig. Gen. John 5. Mason 34 708 972 1, 181 Camp Dennison, Ohio, Lieut. CoL George W. Neff 12 216 288 340 . - - . -. Covington, Cincinnati, and Sandusky 58 1, 167 1,458 1,703 Total District of Ohio 113 2, 091 2, 727 3, 233 Newport Barracks, Lient. Col. Seth Eastman 7 156 214 22) RECAPITULATION. Department staff 32 32 34 District of Central Kentucky 1, 027 17, 871 21, 756 29, 142 64 District of Eastern Kentucky 115 1,892 2,308 2, 696 12 District of Western Kentucky 689 11, 133 15, 239 21, 151 30 District of Illinois 37 778 1. 146 1, 564 1 District of Indiana 67 1, 984 2, 240 3, 396 District of Ohio - 113 2, 091 2, 727 3, 233 Newport Barracks, Kentucky 7 156 214 220 Total 2,087 35,905 45,662 61,436 107 NASHVILLE, June 1, 1863. Major-General IROSECRANS: Your telegram of April 4 has just been read. I was expected to re- turn to Nashville long before I did. It was, therefore, not forwarded to me. The principal portion is new to me. General Davis has never furnished me with any information touching or affecting your character as a citizen or soldier in the slightest degree. My opinion of Truesdail and his establishment was communicated to you some time since. It was predicated upon facts ~ntire1y satisfactory to my mind, and it has undergone no change. You state in your telegram that you consider me your friend. You are right in this, and no one will go further than I in vindication of your character. I have never believed, and do not now believe, that you have fully understood the character and extent of the proceedings under Truesdails direction. It will afford me much pleasure to visit you in person in a few days, at such time as you designate, for the. purpose of conferring freely and fully on the policy to be pursued in the State of Tennessee in restoring the law and putting down treason and traitors. Please send a pass indicating when it will suit for me to visit you. I fear that some de- signing persons have been trying to make an impression intended to distnrb that good feeling which was understood to exist between us while you were here. If so, it will all be dispersed Page 381 CHAr. XXXV. I CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 381 Please accept my thanks for the gentle admonition you gave my son, and the kind manner in which it was done. ANDREW JOHNSON, Military Governor. [JUNE 1, 1863.] General ROSECRANS: Cornyn took Florence Thnrsday. Found Roddey there and whipped him. They say forces were going to Johnston from Bragg up to the 25th [ultimo]; also that some trains crossed Muscle Shoals a week ago. We destroyed everything that would aid in that part of Seward [1] County; mills, foundries, forage, & c., were burned. The prisoners say that there is no doubt of forces going to Johnston from Bragg. Roddeys command had not gone to Columbia, but Biffies had. G. M. DODGE, Brigadier. General. GENERAL ORDERS, IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 84. f Cincinnati, Ohio, June 1, 1863. I. The tendency of the opinions and articles habitually published in the newspaper known as the New York World being to cast reproach upon the Government, and to weaken its efforts to suppress the rebel- lion, by creating distrust in its war policy, its circulation in time of war is calculated to exert a pernicious and treasonable influence, and is therefore prohibited in this department. II. Postmasters, news agents, and all others will govern themselves by this order; as any person detected in forwarding, selling, or in any way circulating the paper referred to will be promptly arrested and hdd for trial. III. On account of the repeated expression of disloyal and incen- diary sentiments, the publication of the newspaper known as the Chi- cago Times is hereby suppressed. IV. Brig. Gen. Jacob Ammen, commanding District of Illinois, is charged with the execution of the third paragraph of this order. By command of Major-General Buruside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. [JUNE 1, 1863.For Lincoln to Burnside, in reference to the admin- istration of military affairs in the loyal States, suppression of the Chi- cago Times, & c., see Series III.] MURFREESBOROUGH, June 2, 1863. (Received 3.10 a. in.) General BURNSIDE: Our movement has begun, and we want y6u to come up as near and as quickly as possible. it will not interfere with your East Tennessee movement, but will strengthen it. First, we want you to occupy Car- thage, from where Crook will move Thursday morning, leaving the Ten- nessee troops there. When will your bearer of dispatcbes leave you ~ W. S. ROSECRAN~ Page 382 382 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV MURFREESBOROUGH, TENN., June 2, 1863. General BURNSIDE: Keep Hartsuff compact, and hold Carthage, if you possibly can. By all means spare me cavalry, if you can. Cant you send me the Third Kentucky Cavalry from Hopkinsville~ W. S. ROSECRANS, Major- General. MEMPHIS, June 2, 18636 p. m. General ROSECRANS: A scout just in at Corinth left Columbia on the 21st May, with Jack- sons and Whitfields brigades of cavalry, under command of Jackson, 5,000 strong; crossed the Tennessee at Decatur 25th; took the road to Columbus, Miss., thence to Jackson. This is Fan Dorns old command,. except Armstrongs brigade, which was left at Columbia. He left them at Pikeville on Thursday. He says two divisions from Bragg have gone to Johnston; also troops from Georgia and South Carolina. Forrest was left at Columbia, and Ruggles was near Okolona with ten pieces of artillery, and large cavalry force at Okolona. Officers say Johnston is being re-enforced very slowly, causing great disaffection. They think if Pemberton can hold out two weeks, Johnston will be able to relieve him. He is now at Jackson organizing and provisioning his troops. They think Grants position very strong, and estimate his force very high. I have sent to Grant in all twenty-eight regiments of infantry. Cornyn, from Corinth, crossed at Florence last week, surprised iRoddey, killed and wounded 60, captured 100, found 50 , 500 horses and mules, 200 negroes, burned the cotton factories, and recrossed with tri- fling loss. No late news from Vicksbnrg. S. A. HURLBUT, Major- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ IIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 85. Cincinnati, Ohio, June 2, 1863. I. The State of Michigan is hereby constituted a district of this de- partment, to be known as the District of Michigan. II. Brig. Gen. J. D. Cox, U. S. Volunteers, in addition to his duties of commander of the District of Ohio, will assume temporary command of the District of Michigan. His headquarters will remain in this city. By command of Major-General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND, Assistant Adjutant- General. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ ItIDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 87. f Cincinnati, Ohio, June 2, 1863. It is announced, for the information of all concerned, that the publica- tion or circulation of books containing sentiments of a disloyal tendency comes clearly within the reach of General Orders, No. 38, and those who offend in this manner will be dealt with accordingly. By command of Major~General Burnside: LEWIS RICHMOND. Assistant Adjutant- General Page 383 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 383 CINCINNATI, OHIO, June 2, 1863. Maj. Gen. H. W. HAI~LEcx, General-in-Chief: Can Captain [Alexander] Murry remain with me ~ His company will have two officers without him. Major [Nathaniel C.] Macrae, who is retired, is here, and can be placed on duty by the order of the Presi- dent. I would like to have him. General Rosecrans has consented to allow General Green Clay Smith to come to this department if you will consent. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major-General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, June 3, 18634.10 p. m. Major-General BURNSIDE, Lexington, Ky.: Captain Murry must obey orders. Major Macrae will be assigned to duty with you. You can have General Green Clay Smith. You must hurry forward re-enforcements to General Grant. If you cannot hire river boats, you must impress them. Telegrams from Memphis say that Bragg is sending large re-enforcements to Johnston. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. - WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, June 3, 18634.10 p. m. Major-General HOSECRANS, Murfreesborough, Tenn.: Accounts received here indicate that Johnston is being heavily re- enforced from Braggs army. If you cannot hurt the enemy now, he will soon hurt you. H. W. HALLECK, General-in.Chief. NASHVILLE, June 3, 1863. C. GODDARD, Assistant Adjutant-General: Drove of 175 mules on Gallatin pike captured. Guerrillas crossed the Cumberland at 12.30 p. m. to-day. Stated they would be at Lebanon before dark, where Wheeler would be met with his cavalry division. Cavalry sent from here on both sides of river in pursuit, but have not overtaken them. R. S. GRANGEIR, - Brigadier- General. GALLATIN, c~ne 3, 1863. General JAMES A. GARFIELD, Chief of & aff: When Wards brigade left, I had but 100 men at night for duty. The men belonged to Nicklins battery. I ordered five companies here from One hundred and twenty-ninth Illinois, and one sent to river. I have learned that an attack will be made on bridges and stockades to- ward Nashville. I shall send strong companies immediately, and ~hail then have 350 men for this and for the fort and provost guard. I have now a very large supply of rations, a large quantity of rations and am- munition, also of horses and mules. IPermit me to say that, unless w Page 384 384 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. are to have more troops here, the supply of rations and ammunition, I think, should be moved to Nashville. I can hold the fort against 5,000 rebels, but the post is too small to hold stores. E. A. PAINE. HEADQUARTERS, Cincinnati, Ohio, June 3, 1863. Maj. G~n. H. W. HALLECK, General-in-Chief: Yonr dispatch received. IRosecrans is now relying upon my advance into Tennessee, and I am all ready. If I do not go there, some 8,000 or 10,000 men might be spared for Grant. Rosecrans has just telegraphed me that he is moving, and wants me to push on. I leave for Hickman Bridge at daylight to-morrow. Telegraph me at Lexington. A. E. BURNSIDE, Major. General. CINCINNATI, June 3, 1863. General IROSECRANS: General Halleck has asked me how many troops I can send to Grant, and I am expecting orders that will interfere with the East Tennessee movement; will telegraph you. I leave this morning for Lexington. Telegraph me there. A. E. BURNSJDE, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, June 3, 186311 a. m. Major-General BUENSIDE, Lexington, Ky.: You will immediately dispatch 8,000 men to General Grant, at Vicks- burg. Should it be found that General Grant will not require them, they will be stopped by the way or returned to you as early as possible. Concentrate your remaining forces as much as you can. I think there is no fear of an advance upon Kentucky at present. H. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. LEXINGTON, June 3,1863. General ROSECRANS: Halleck has ordered me to send a large force to Grant, which I am now doing. Will keep Hartsuff as compact as possible. You know my line is long. I will not send a bearer of dispatches now, as my j)lans are all ~ranged. BURNSJDE. LEXINGTON, Ky., June 3, 18632.55 p. m. Maj. Gen. H. W. HALLECK, General.in.Chief: The two divisions of the Ninth Corps go. Shall I go with them? Hartsuft~ is concentrating the troops, and can look out for matters here, and I will have nothing to do~ I may be able to help Grant. A. E. BUIRNSIDE, Major-General Page 385 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.~UNION. 385 HEADQUARTERS TWENTY-THIRD ARMY CORPS, Lexington, J~1~,., June 3, 1863. Brigadier-General CARTER, AS~omerset, Ky.: Your division has just been assigned to the Twenty-third Army Corps. You will be left in charge of the operations in your front. [B. Clay] Crawfords battery, at Hickman Bridge, is directed to report to you. Issue what orders you deem necessary to it. Your cavalry force will soon be increased. Report to me immediately your necessities, and what ckange, if any, it may be necessary to make in the disposition of your forces. Your command will consist of your own division, exclud- ing all troops belonging to the Ninth Corps. GEO. L. HARTS1ITFF, Major- General, Commanding !Fwenty-third Army Corps. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS UNiTED STATES FORCES, No. 1. Glasgow, Ky., June 3, 1863. In conformity with instructions from Major-General Hartsnff, com- manding Twenty-third Army Corps, and Brigadier-General Boyle, commanding District of Kentucky, the undersigned hereby assumes command of this post and of the troops belonging to the Twenty-third Army Corps thereat and between Glasgow and the -Cumberland River. The composition of the staff of the brigadier-general commanding will be announced in future orders. By order of Brig. Gen. H. M. Judah: D. W. H. DAY, Captain and Acting Assistant Adjutant- General. CHICAGO, June 3, 1863. (Received 10.38 p. in.) Hon. ABRAHAM LINCOLN, President: At a meeting held to.day in reference to the suppression of the Chi- cago Times, by order of General Burnside, the following was adopted: Whereas, in the opinion of this meeting of citizens, of all parties, the peace of this city and State, if not the general welfare of the country, are likely to be promoted by the suspension or rescinding of the recent order of General Burnside for the sup~ uression of the Chicaro Times: Therefore, Resolved, That upon the ground of expediency alone, such of our citizens as concur in this opinion, without regard to party, are hereby recommended to unite in a peti- tion to the President, respectfully asking the suspension or rescinding said order. The undersigned, in pursuance of the above resolution, respectfully petition the Presidents favorable consideration and action in accordance therewith. F. C. SHERMAN, WIRT DEXTER. Jllayor of Chicago. VAN H. HIGGINS. WILLIAM B. OGDEN. A. C. COVENTRY. E. VAN BUREN. W. A. HOHN. SAMUEL W. FULLER. C. BECKWITH. S. S. HAYES. HENRY G. MILLER. A. WARRINGTON. M. F. FEELEY. THEODORE HAYNE. We respectfully ask for the above the serious and prompt considera- tion of the President. LYMAN TRUMBULL. ISAAC N. ARNOLD. 25 R RVOL XXIII, PT I Page 386 386 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. YA. [CHAP. XXXV. GENERAL ORDERS,) HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE OHIO, No. 91. Cincinnati, Ohio, June 4, 1863. I. By direction of the President of the United States, the order sup. pressing the publication of the Chicago Times is hereby revoked. II. The circulation of the New York World in this department hav- ing been suppressed for the same reasons that caused the suppression of the publication of the Chicago Times, that portion of the general order relating to said newspaper is hereby revoked. It will be allowed to resume its circulation. By command of Major-General Burnside: N. H. McLEAN, Assistant Adjutant- General. CARTHAGE, TENN., June 4, [1863.] Brig. Gen. JAMEs A. GARFIELD, Chief of Staff, Army of the Cumberland, Miwfreesborough, Tenn.: A scouting party, composed of the Thirty-sixth Ohio Regiment, sent to Trousdale Ferry, on Caney Fork, succeeded in capturing 16 prison- ers and 32 horses of Smiths command. We are now crossing the river. Have been ferrying all day yesterday and all last night. Will be at Liberty to-morrow. Respectfully, GEORGE CROOK, Brigadier- General. HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE CUMBERLAND, June 4, 18631 a. in. General TURCHIN, Commanding Second Cavalry Division: GENERAL: Direct Colonel Paramore to march at 6 oclock this morn- ing, with the mounted men of the Third, Fourth, and Tenth Ohio, to Liberty, on the direct road. He will take eight days rations.-three in haversacks and five in wagonswith 60 rounds of ammunition per man. Colonel Wilder marches his command on the same road at the same hour, and Colonel Paramore will report to him. The qnartermaster of each regiment will be left behind, and the dismounted men, for the purpose of getting their horses to-morrow. Orders to direct these de- tachments will be issued hereafter. At Liberty the command will be reported to General Crook. The tents will not be taken, but an officer will be detailed to take charge of the baggage in case the camps are broken up. The pickets now on from these regiments will join the detachments in camp as soon as they can be relieved to-morrow by the First Brigade. Respectfully, D. S. STANLEY, Major- General. WAR DEPARTMENT, Washington, June 4, 186312.05 p. m. Major-General BuRNSIDE, Lexington, Ky.: It would be obviously improper for you to leave your department to accompany a temporary detachment of less than one-quarter of you Page 387 CHAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 387 effective force. Moreover, the organization of the Kentucky militia requires your immediate attention. II. W. HALLECK, General-in- Chief. LEXINGTON, June 4, 1863. Major-General ROSEcRANS: It would be very dangerous to take any cavalry from this department now, and particularly the Third Kentucky, as the section of country they occupy is fall of guerrillas and sympathizers. I have nothing to replace them with. We are cut down to the minimum force necessary to keep your line of communications open, which I take it is all-impor- tant to you; but if you think it more important to have the regiment with you, of course I will use my best endeavors to send it. A. E. BUENSIDE, _____ Major-General. SOMERSET, VIA STANFORD, June 4, 1863. General IIARTSUFF: The wire has been out of order between this and Stanford since yes. terday forenoon. Repairers and couriers have been sent out, but have had no notice where damaged. Christs brigade has moved; left at day- light. Dispatch received this morning from Lieutenant-Colonel Adams from Mill Springs. Advices are he crossed the river ~some 30 miles below this on yesterday, and captured 6 rebels and 15 horses. He re- ports fourteen regiments of rebel cavalry on south side of river. I am so much weakened here that I may be overwhelmed. Before Christ left, rebels stated their force was greater than ours. Have you any in- structions ~ S. P. CARTER, Brigadier-General. SOMERSET, June 4, 1863. Major-General IIARTSuFF: The wire is just in working order for first time since yesterday fore- noon. Our force is much weakened by having Christs brigade detached. Lieutenant-Colonel Adams, First Kentucky Cavalry, who made a dash across the river nearly 30 miles below this yesterday, and captured 6 rebels and 45 horses, reports fourteen rebel cavalry regiments on south side of river. CARTER, Brigadier- General. SOMERSET, June 4, 1863. Major-General IIARTSUFF: Lieutenant-Colonel Adams reports that he crossed the river at Mill Springs this morning, but advanced only 1 mile. He states the rebels have about 1,000 men at Steubenville, 4 miles from the river, and be- tween 3,000 and 4,000 in and around Monticello, under Pegram. Mor- gan arrived at Monticello yesterday evening; his strength not known. ii have ordered the Second Tennessee from near Waynesburg to this place. CARTER, Brigadier-General Page 388 388 KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [C!lAr. XXXV. GENERAL ORDERS, ~ DIST. OF CENTRAL KENTUCKY, er:~ No.1. to June 4, 1863. of this date, the undersigned hereby assumes commaud of all troops within the limits of this district, including those under Brigadier-Gd- Carter. * * * * * Brigadier-General, Commanding. IIDQRS. THiRD DIVISION, FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS, June 5, 18633 p. m. Lieut. Col. GEORGE E. FLYNT, Asst. Adjt. Gen. and Chief of & aff, Fourteenth Army ~Jorps: The Third Brigade of my division was sent last night by General Granger to Franklin. I would like to have it ordered back. If any reenforcements are to be sent to hold that point, I think they should come from his command. Respectfully, M. BRANNAN Brigadier- General, Comma~ding. SPECIAL FIELD ORDERS, ~ HDQRS. DEPT. OF THE CUMBERLAND, No. 153. Murfreesborough, Tenn., June 5, 1863. * * * * * * * \TJJ. Brig. Gen. II. P. Van Cleve is assigned to and will immediately assume command of the fortifications at this place. By command of Major-General Rosecrans: II. THRALL, ~Japtain and Assistant Adjutant-General. FRANKLIN, June 6, 1863Midnight. General GARFIELD, Chief of $taff: Yesterday morning, being very unwell, I asked General Granger to relieve me for a few days, stating, in the same dispatch, if he could not I would hold up. Van Derveer came and assumed command at noon, but still I had all the work to do. To-day some better, and have done all the fighting. Nothing has been done except by me. To-night I re- ceived the following order from Granger: SPECIAL ORDERS, ~ HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY, No. 90. ~ Triune, lean., June 6, 1863. First Lient. H. C. Wharton, U. S. Army, chief engineer, will proceed to Franklin, Tenn., and superintend the reorganization of the garrison at that place. He will see that the Seventy-eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry is posted in and around the large fort, and that 150 men from the remainder of the command he stationed on Ropers Kuob. lie will personally superintend the posting of the guards and pickets, and the instruction of the artillerists. All orders given by him will be by authority and in the name of the general commanding. By order of Maj. Gen. G. Granger: WILLIAM C. RUSSELL, Cartain and Assi8tant Adjntant-General Page 389 CuAP. XXXV.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.UNION. 389 The Seventy-eighth is on Ropers Knob, and the balance In the fort. This order changes my whole disposition of the forces, and I dont feel satisfied at all, and ask you to entirely relk~ve me. I will command my own brigade, but will not obey this order. If I have not done my duty, say so. My brigade consists of the uncaptured force of the Eighty-fifth and Thirty-third Indiana, Nineteenth Michigan, and Twenty-second Wis- consin, amounting to about 400. There are 242 convalescents, and this force is in the main fort. The Seventy-eighth Illinois numbers about 400, and only 332 for duty. Granger knew before he left here how I had disposed the forces, and approved it. Respectfully, J. P. BAIRD, Colonel, Commanding Post. HEADQUARTERS, Louisville, June 6, 186312 m. (Received 2.15 p. in.) Major-General ROSECUANS: General Burnside directs me to send two regiments and a battery to Carthage, if possible. The Ninth Army Corps have all gone, leaving me with a very limited number to protect the whole Kentucky line. I understand there are three regiments there now. Am going to Glas- gow myself to-morrow, and intend, if possible, to send about 2,000 mixed troops to Tompkinsville or Red Springs. It will leave no troops available for Carthage unless the necessity is very great, and other places must then be stripped. Please inform me immediately about it. HARTSUFI~, Major- General. LOUISVILLE, June 6, 186311.30 a. m. Major-General BUENSIDE: Have just telegraphed General W. S. Rosecrans in full. His answer will determine whether troops are sent to Carthage. Shall send Hob- son to Columbia. Every car on the railroad in use. Cannot start be- fore to-morrow evening. Division of the Ninth Corps rapidly arriving there now. I will go from Columbus to Columbia; thence to Somerset, Mount Vernon, and Lexington. Can determine from Somerset whether Sanders expedition is practicable. GEG. L. HARTSUFF, Major- General. LOUISVILLE, June 6, 1863S p. m. Major-General BURNSIDE: Following just received: MURFREESBOROUGH, June 6. Major-General HARTSUFF: One regiment will be sufficient under an able commauder, provided you occupy Red Springs. I will be glad if you can take Carthage under your control. W. S. ROSECRANS, Major-General. Will send a regiment immediately on arriving at Columbus. Shall I add forces at Carthage to my command, and control the place? GEG. L. IIARTSUFF, Major- General Page 390 ~39O KY., MID. AND E. TENN., N. ALA., AND SW. VA. [CHAP. XXXV. INDIANAPOLiS, June 6, 1863. Major-General ROSECRANa A great many of Coburns brigade stampeded from Camp Chase and went home. When the residue of the Indiana portion of it got to In- dianapolis, Governor Morton got authority to furlough them for ten days. During this time the scattered were being collected, and the whole being clothed and placed iu readiness for the field, and we have been forwarding, for the last three or four days, all exchanged men~ I placed Colonel Coburn in command of the camp of exchanged men, and in a day or two they will all be forwarded, and Colonel Coburn will then join his command. MILO S. HASCALL, Brigadier.- General of Volunteers. FRANKLIN, June 7, 18631 p. m. General GARFIELD: Everything quiet here. Telegraph was again cut about daylight, but was soon repaired by Operator Perdue, who is very efficient. Will there be a train here to-day ~ I have broken up the hospital in Frank- lin, and ordered stores brought this side of river. A company of cav- alry, with Colonels Faulkner and Cooper, [went] to Nashville night before last. Are coming down, and as soon as they report I will inform you of the condition of roads and country, but am satisfied the railroad is not cut. Ithinktherebelswerewaitingtocapturetrain,andwerescaredout by Grangers cavalry attacking on my left, and did not stop to tear np the road. J. P. BAIRD, Golonel, Gommanding Post. FRANXLIN, June 7, 1863. (Received 3.25 p. in.) General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: No enemy seen to-day. No firing, but the bridge at Brentwood was burned by the rebels. This morning a company of cavalry came through from Nashville just arrived. They report a party of 12 rebels who cut the telegraph this morning and burned the bridge. Major-General Granger has sent me two regiments of cavalry, and I feel entirely safe for the present. General Grangers orders have been complied with. I was moving camps wheu your dispatch came. I will send you a full explanation of my last nights dispatch, and you will see I neither in- tended to disobey orders or treat General Granger with disrespect, for there is no officer in the service for whom I have a higher regard than General Gordon Granger. J. P. BAIRD, C~olonel, Comman.ding Post Page 391 cHAP. XXXV.] COR1~ESP~NDENCt, EI~C.UNION. ~91 FRANKLIN, June 7, 1863. General GARFIELD, Chief of Staff: My dispatch should read that I could not obey that order. My only objection was to that portion respecting the change of position, and while an attack was impending I could not change camps. I was carry- ing out the order when your dispatch came. Colonel Van Derveer came here and reported to me, and when I sent him an order, he took com- mand, as he said, by General Grangers order, when he left. I got notli- ing from the general until the staff officer came. The other reasons, connected with my difficulty with some officers at Thompsons Station, led me to think General Granger was not sat~shed with my manner of conducting the defense, and I asked you to relieve