GENERAL: On
yesterday Colonel Wolford left to make a reconnaissance of the rebel force
below this, and with the general understanding that, should he find the enemy
too strong, he was either to return or send back for re-enforcements, when
Colonel Bramlette and myself are to move forward with all our available force,
which we think will reach 1,200.
We learned this
evening that there was a rebel force of cavalry of 350 at Travisville, and, if
true, I have no doubt that Colonel Wolford has proceeded to that point with a
view of giving them battle.
On Friday night
the same party were at Monticello, distant 20 miles from this place; that
infantry force, numbering 3,200, made but a short stay at Albany on their
return to their encampment at Old Monroe from Burkesville, though it is said
they ravaged the country in their passage, driving off horses, cattle, and
hogs. They also found a brother of Captain Frogg sick in bed, whom they
murdered.
My boys are quite
eager to meet the rebels in combat, and should any more troops move in that
direction I could not, if I were disposed, prevent their joining in the march.
I have improved
our position at this place by the erection of some rude breastworks along the
face of the hill and parallel with the roads. I have also blockaded a number of
roads to prevent a flank movement of the enemy. They, I learn, had determined
to force's passage by this route with a view of forming a junction with
Zollicoffer at Crab Orchard, not doubting but that he would reach that point.
Their whole force at Travisville and Old Monroe from the best information will
reach near 4,000, though all assert that they are but insufficiently and poorly
armed. I have not learned that they certainly have any artillery.
Recruits are
coming in rapidly the past few days, and I hope to have the minimum number by
the 10th instant and a full regiment in a few weeks.
I hope soon to
see matters sufficiently quieted in this section to allow me time to return and
dispose of my old quartermasters business.
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