HOLLY SPRINGS, December 20, 1862.

Colonel RAWLINS:

Contraband just in reports Van Dorn only 14 miles from here with 5,000 cavalry, intending to destroy stores here, and then dash on Grand Junction. He is on the Ripley [road] and expected to reach here by daylight. Have ordered out my cavalry, but my force is only a handful.

R. C. MURPHY.

HOLLY SPRINGS, December 20, 1862.

Colonel RAWLINS:

Have ordered out my cavalry to the east. Have sent some trains on to bring up my troops on the north as far as Coldwater and the south as far as the tank. I have now here, exclusive of cavalry, less than 500 men. Van Dorn was informed of this fact by paroled prisoners on yesterday.

R. C. MURPHY.

BOLIVAR, TENN., December 20, 1862 1 a. m.

Brigadier-General SULLIVAN:

Lieutenant-Colonel Breckenridge, First West Tennessee Cavalry, from White Oak Ridge, Hardin Country, sends courier that rebels under General Morgan are to join cavalry force at Trenton; are fortifying at Kelly's old road track, 8 miles from Clifton. Have considerable artillery and reserve at Clifton.

W. L. BARNUM,

Acting Assistant Adjutant-General.

General SULLIVAN:

A negro just in reports 700 or 800 Confederate cavalry at Spring Creek last night. This position commands roads leading to Huntington, Trenton, and Jackson.

ISAAC R. HAWKINS,

Colonel, Second West Tennessee Cavalry.

LA GRANDE, December 20, 1862.

General SULLIVAN:

I am informed that a large force under Jackson and Van Dorn that attacked Holly Springs last night was at Coldwater this afternoon. Heavy cannonading has been distinctly heard. They evidently intend to strike this point or Grand Junction. We have but few troops here. Will you not re-enforce us to-night? We shall hold as long as possible.

J. RICHMOND,

Colonel, Commanding Post.

BOLIVAR, December 20, 1862.

J. C. SULLIVAN, Brigadier-General:

Holly Springs is reported in possession of the enemy, and heavy firing is reported as having been heard at Bethel. Can you re-enforce me?

JOHN W. SPRAGUE,

Colonel, Commanding.