There were two general officers left with the command, neither of which desired the position of commander of the forces, and I therefore at their request appointed Captain C. C. Gilbert, First Infantry, U. S. Army, a major-general, subject to the approval of the President, and Captain W. R. Terrill, Fifth Artillery, U. S. Army, a brigadier-general, subject to a like approval, assisting the former to the command of the Army of Kentucky during the absence of Major-General Nelson, wounded in the battle. A copy of the order is herewith inclosed.*

I believe in making these appointments I have acted for the best interest of the service.

General Gilbert is favorably known throughout the regular service, and in this section of the country commands the confidence of officers and citizens, and I trust for the good of the service the appointment may meet the approval of the authorities. General Terrill is also favorably known to the service, has served gallantry through the war, and is, I am sure, entitled to some such mark of recognition of his services, zeal, and intelligence.

If the force at Lexington is brought off safely it will be due mainly to the good management of those officers.

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

H. G. WRIGHT,

Major-General, Commanding.

Major General H. W. HALLECK,

General-in-Chief.

INSTRUCTIONS TO Major General WILLIAM NELSON, U. S. ARMY.

LOUISVILLE, KY., August 24, 1862.

If enemy is in force get your troops together, and do not risk a general battle at Richmond unless you are sure of success. Better fall back to a more defensible position, say the Kentucky River, than to risk much. If the enemy's force is cavalry he may have designs against [Green Clay] Smith, who should be ready to fall back and join you. Do not let him be overwhelmed. It is the enemy's game to fall upon our detachments. Your lowest estimate of enemy's strength probably nearest the truth; keep me advised.

H. G. WRIGHT,

Major-General, Commanding.

Major-General NELSON,

Commanding at Lexington, Ky.

P. S.-To be sent forward by telegraph if General N. has left.

No. 2.

Report of Major General William Nelson, U. S. Army, commanding Army of Kentucky.

HEADQUARTERS, Lexington, Ky., August 31, 1862.

GENERAL: I have to report that on yesterday morning at 2.30 o'clock I, much to my surprise, received a dispatch from General Manson, stating that the enemy was in force in his front and that he anticipated an engagement. I immediately sent couriers, with orders for him not to fight the enemy, but to retreat by way of the Lancaster road. I had ordered General Dumont to proceed from Lebanon to Danville, where he would

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*Not found.

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