CHAP. XII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

position as good as my present. I can here obtain wood, water, forage, and some provisions, which is more than I can do on the other side of London, except by hauling a long distance. It is reported that Buckner has advanced upon Greensburg. Is it so?

A Mr. Burnsides reports himself as beef contractor, but has no documents to show the fact. I understood you to say that the had contracted. Did I rightly understand you?

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

A. SCHOEPF, Brigadier-General.

McCLARIES', PULASKI COUNTY, KENTUCKY, October 29, 1861.

Brigadier General GEORGE H. THOMAS, Commanding First Kentucky Brigade:

GENERAL: I left Camp Hoskins this morning at 3 o'clock to visit my family, being summoned to attend a little daughter who I fear is dead ere this; but I am overtaken by a courier with information, reliable, that the rebels are advancing with an expressed determination to break up our encampment. I must return to my command.

The rebel force is estimated at 3,200, which I suppose is not exaggerated, as they also have a train of 140 wagons.

I learn that they have also a body of cavalry stationed at Travisville, numbering 1,200, which of course will join their main force at Albany, making in the aggregate 4,400. I have no fears from an attack should it come from the direction of the main road leading from Monticello, but apprehend that they may attempt to flank us by crossing lower down the river. It is likewise reported that they have two batteries of artillery, and if true they may shell us from our present position. Can you send us aid-say at least one regiment and a battery? Should they effect a crossing of the Cumberland, they might prove troublesome. i shall no abandon the position we now hold unless ordered or driven, conceiving, as I do, it to be of the utmost importance that it should be held. I shall improve the time by fortifying our position as well as I can and blocking the passes more effectually above and below. In conclusion, I would state that I have received the news of their advancing from too may reliable sources to justify me in doubting it.

Please send me what assistance you can and as speedily as possible.

Most respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. A. HOSKINS.

P. S.- If cavalry can be spared I should like to have at least one company, that which I had having been recalled.

This will accredit my nephew, W. F. Hoskins.

HEADQUARTERS CAMP DICK ROBINSON, October 29, 1861.

Brigadier General A. SCHOEPF:

GENERAL: I have just received a letter from General Sherman. He objects to advancing the troops too far on this route, and directs that we go no farther than your camp for the present.

* * * * *

Respectfully, &c.,

GEO. H. THOMAS, Brigadier-General, U. S. Volunteers, Commanding.