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

of Stanton and Murray for two days, but understands they are approaching.

I have determined to fall back to Jacksborough and completely blockade the two wagon roads through the mountains in that neighborhood. I have written to Stanton, Murray, and McClellan to unite their forces, and make a stand in a strong position, if they can find it, where the wagon road ascend the mountain from Monticello to Jamestown, forming entrenchments for the infantry commanding the pass. I left the regiments of Colonels Churchwell and Rains at Cumberland Gap, busily engaged in completing the works there. Within a week or ten days I think the defenses there will be very strong. I think the Jacksborough routes can soon be made effectively impassable, and then I hope to move by the Jamestown route and advance.

If you will examined the topography of the country you will perceive I have passed to this point along a valley at the foot of the mountain. The road is good. To pass from Jacksborough direct to Huntsville or Montgomery or Jamestown direct, I would have to pursue a mountain road, poor and broken, and the mountain is generally 30 or 40 miles wide.

Very respectfully,

F. K. ZOLLICOFFER, Brigadier-General.

(Same to Colonel W. W. Mackall.)

HEADQUARTERS WESTERN DEPARTMENT, Bowling Green, Ky., November 9, 1861.

Brigadier-General HARDEE, First Division:

General Johnston orders you to send to-morrow morning 1,200 infantry and one half-section of artillery (including one howitzer), under an intelligent officer, to Jamestown and Tompkinsville. This force will be increased by a squadron from Colonel Terry's command. This is be information reported to the general, viz: There are 400 or 500 of the enemy in Jamestown, and an additional force supposed to be at Tompkinsville. The orders to be given to the commanders are these, viz: Go to Jamestown, and if the enemy are there, and not in too great force, attack and destroy them. Proceed to Tompkinsville and do the same thing. Inform him in advance that he moves through a wooded country, and his infantry should cover his cavalry and artillery, with the exception of a few troops with the advanced guard to act as messengers. If possible examined the roads leading to Gallatin, as it is reported that attempts will be made by the enemy to reach and cut the railway in that district. Report from time to time, and return to this place as soon as these orders are executed or it is apparent they cannot be. Create the impression in the country that this force is only an advance guard.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

W. W. MACKALLL, Assistant Adjutant-General.

BOWLING GREEN, KY., November 9, 1861.

General POLK, Columbus:

The general wishes to know by telegraph your opinion of the sufficiency of your present supply of cannot powder.