escaped to the hills through the woods and high corn, making for the Cumberland River.

Thus ended an action in which my command, not exceeding 700 men (one whole company being in the rear with prisoners), succeeded in defeating a brigade of 1,200 chosen cavalry, sent by General Buell expressly to take me or drive me out of Tennessee, killing and wounding some 180 and taking 200 prisoners, including the brigadier-general commanding and the greater part of the regimental officers.

My loss in both actions amounted to 5 killed, 18 wounded, and 2 missing. Among the wounded was Captain Huffman, who had his arm shattered by a ball while leading gallantly on his brave Texan Rangers, a small body of men commanded by Major [R. M.] Gano, of whom I can-not speak too highly, as they have distinguished themselves ever since they joined my command not only by their bravery, but their good, soldier-like conduct.

To all my officers and men my best acknowledgments are due. Nothing but hard fighting carried them through.

To my personal staff I am deeply indebted. Colonel St. Leger Grenfell, acting adjutant-general, ably supported me; Captain Lewellen, my quartermaster, and Captain Green Roberts, who acted as my aides-decamp, were most active and fearless in carrying my orders, and the captains of companies cool and collected in the performance of them. Lieutenant-Colonel Duke led on his regiment, if possible, with more than his usual gallantry, and contributed, by the confidence with which he has inspired his men, to insure the success of the day. Lieutenant-Colonel Duke makes particular mention of the cool and determined manner in which Lieutenant [W. S.] Rogers, commanding advanced guard, Capts. Hutcheson, [J. T.] Cassell, and Lieutenant [George] White, respectively, commanding thee three companies composing his division, behaved. In fact the conduct of both officers and men deserves the highest praise.

I received every assistance from the patriotism and zeal of the neighboring citizens, among whom Major Duffey and Captain R. A. Bennet were pre-eminent.

I have also to report that I have received a dispatch from General Forrest, stating that he has encamped within 8 miles of me with a reenforcement of 800 men, but no artillery. The want of this arm cripples my movements and prevents my advance with that certainty of effect which a battery would afford.

Recruits are daily and hourly arriving. The population seems at last to be thoroughly and to be determined on resistance.

I hope shortly, general, to be able to report further successes, and rest assured that no exertions on my part shall be wanting, no sacrifices on that of my officers and men will prevent our giving as good an account of the enemy as our small numbers will admit of.

I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect, general, your most obedient servant,

JOHN H. MORGAN,

Colonel, Commanding Cavalry, C. S. Army.

The ADJUTANT-GENERAL.

P. S.- This morning I received positive information as to General Nelson's intentions and movements. He is retreating from Nashville te re-enforce Bowling Green at the head of 1,500 infantry, 200 cavalry,

56 R R-VOL XVI