FRANKLIN, KY., December 13, 1864.

Brevet Brigadier-General WATKINS:

Send me word by these couriers when you will reach here. I wish to move on Russellville at daylight, and want you to camp near here to-night. Write me where you are when this meets you. La Grange will be here to-night.

E. M. MCCOOK,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

BOWLING GREEN, December 13, 1864-11 a. m.

Colonel O. H. LA GRANGE,

Commanding Second Brigade;

Lyon is reported to be moving on Springfield, and it is necessary that you reach Franklin to-night if possible. You will march immediately, and camp near the place. I will go there this p. m. You will report to me on your arrival and let me know the whereabouts of your brigade.

E. M. MCCOOK,

Brigadier-General, Commanding.

BOWLING GREEN, December 13, 1864.

(Received 3.50 p. m.)

Brigadier-General MCCOOK,

Franklin:

Colonel Johnson, at Russellville, just telegraphed that the enemy, 1,500 or 2,000 strong, are advancing on Russellville; are at Elkton. Their advance is skirmishing with his men. They have four pieces artillery. Will you go to his help? If not, he will, as he says, have to fall back. Answer.

S. P. LOWE,

Colonel, Commanding.

FRANKLIN, December 13, 1864-4 p. m.

Colonel S. P. LOWE,

Bowling Green:

Telegraph Colonel Johnson I have sent a courier to him that a brigade will start to him at daylight, and to have his scouts to with the rebel movements, that we will get ont he right track at once.

E. M. MCCOOK,

Brigadier-General.

HEADQUARTERS U. S. FORCES,
Russellville, Ky., December 13, 1864.

General MCCOOK:

SIR: I was ordered by the commanding officer at Bowling Green to report to you the position of the enemy below. The commander at Fort Donelson reported on Sunday that General Lyon, with from 3,000 to 4,000 men, crossed the Cumberland fifteen miles above the fort, moving in the direction of Hopkinsville, Ky. I have not been able yet to ascertain the strength of the rebels, but think it is not over