[CHAP.XII. OPERATIONS IN KENTUCKY AND TENNESSEE.

to their holmes, and become good and loyal citizens, they will be protected in the enjoyment of all their rights, alike with every one who submits to the authority of the Confederate Government. We are informed that a large body of this class of men are now assembled in the State of Kentucky, near the Tennessee line, who declare their intention of maintaining the neutrality of the former State. Knowing that this illusion will soon be dissipated, and fearing that they will by some mens be induced to join the Federal forces, we are exceedingly anxious to make every effort to bring them to our support. We therefore desire to urge upon your excellency the importance of giving them such assurances of protection as will effect this object. Some of our most reliable and discreet citizens will visit Richmond for the purpose of conferring with in relation to this matter, and can explain the reasons which induce this communication in a more full and satisfactory manner than we have written them.

Hopking that your excellency will take this suggestion under careful advisement, we have the honor to be, yours very respectfully.

JOHN PARK, Major.

We would respectfully request and urge upon your attention the fact that such has been the exasperation and vituperation of political parties and the prejudices of and against the present officers in command, that all proclamations heretofore issued by said officers have failed to have the due conciliatory effect, and the some direct communication from the head of the Government at this particular time would effect the most desirable results.

A. N. EDMONDS, SAM. TATE.

N. S. BRUCE, W. G. FORD, J. M. PATRICK, J. M. GONDIR, JAMES A. CARNES, F. W. ROYSTER, F. TITUS, Safety Comminute, Memphis, Tenn.

Q. C. ATKINSPON, SAML. P. WALKER, S. T. WATSON, ET AL.

I concern in the writhing suggestion, believing that it will be both right and politic to give the assurance south to all of these misguided citizens who will in good faith return to their homes and declare their loyalty to the Government.

ISHAM G. HARRIS.

H. F. CUMMINS.

J. E. R. RAY, Secretary of State.

SPECIAL ORDERS,} ADJT. AND INSP. General 'S OFFICE, Numbers 200. Richmond, November 1, 1861.

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XV. Brigadier General Charles Clark, Provisional Army, is assigned to the command of the Mississippi Brigade, now in Kentucky. he will at