[CHAP.XII. OPERATIONS IN KENTUCKY AND TENNESSEE.
the people would relieved from the operation of a burdensome tax, and would probably appreciate the disinterestedness and magnanimity of the Confederate Government in abstaining from exercising an undoubted right of war, because of its injustice toward them and of our belief that the law is not sanctioned by a majority of the people.
At the time I recommended the promotion of Major Stewart and Colonel McCown to the grade of brigadier-general I was aware that Colonel Tilghman had been recommended for proportion, but presuming that his service would be required for this column, and the he would be appointed, I made no mention of his name. While on this subject I have to remark that the appointment of a least three competent brigadier-general would contribute greatly to the efficiency of this army corps. As the promotion of Colonel Tilgham leaves the colonelcy of the Third Kentucky Regiment vacant, it will be necessary to appoint a colonel to that regiment, and as the lieutenant-colonel is not well qualified, as I am informed, for the command, through a man of ability and valuable to the service, the appointment should be made very soon. There are the following-named officers, formerly of the U. S. Army, here, viz: Lieutenant Colonel B. H. Helm; Major Cosby; Captain Lyon, a graduate of West Poin, and formerly of the Third U. S. Artillery, now commanding a battery; Captain W. N. R. Beall; Lieutenant Wickliffe, and Major Benjamin Anderson, of the Third Kentucky Regiment, in which the vacancy occurs, all Kentuckians.
I have already mentioned that there is no money in the hands of the commissary, and I should add that the quartermaster's department is also destitute. The embarrassment is peculiarly felt at this time, as without it transportation, in which our troops are greatly deficient, cannot be obtained. I have been also particularly anxious to mount Terry's Texas regiment, the service of which are much needed, but for want of ready money cannot procure the horses. Only about 350 have been bought for this regiment.*
With great respect, your obedient servant,
A. S. JOHNSTON, General, C. S. Army.
[Inclosure.]
I have no authority to receive General Davis. This power is in the President alone.
A. S. JOHNSTON.
HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEPARTMENT,
Bowling Green, Ky., October 22, 1861.
Brigadier General L. P. WALKER, Huntsville, Ala.:
GENERAL: By General Johnson I am instructed to inform you that the enemy are advancing on General Zollicoffer. Two regiments were within 12 and 15 miles of his position at London, Ky., yesterday. From other courses he is led to believe that this advance is in force, and for the purpose of dividing us from the east by an attack through Cumberland Gap.
Nothing more need be presented to show you the necessity of the immediate employed of every man for the defense of the line, and to explain to you the propriety of sending your command to Knoxville instead of drawing it to this place, as was the wish and intention of the general.
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* See Benjamin to Johnston, November 3, p. 502.
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