fort for the battle which is to decide the fate of Kentucky. Marshall has arrived at Mount Sterling with his command, 3,000 strong. Loring, on the Kanawha, will be notified of Morgan's march should he go toward Louisa.

E. KIRBY SMITH,

Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., September 24, 1862.

Brigadier General D. LEADBETTER,

Commanding Brigade, Paris, Ky.:

SIR: The major-general commanding directs that you move on rapidly to Mount Sterling with your brigade. General Morgan is making for the Ohio and we must try to head him off. If General Smith does not meet you in Mount Sterling report to General Marshall.

Respectfully, your obedient servant,

JNumbers PEGRAM,

Colonel, &c.,

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., September 24, 1862.

Brigadier General C. L. STEVENSON, Commanding, &c.:

GENERAL: You will push on with al possible speed, as a big battle must be fought soon near Frankfort. Push Morgan, and if he goes to the east from the Kentucky River and gets involved in the mountains, making for Salyersville and Big Sandy, push your cavalry after him, and with your artillery and infantry join me at Lexington without delay. Communicate with me by every opportunity.

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,

E. KIRBY SMITH.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., September 24, 1862.

Brigadier General HENRY HETH,

Commanding, Georgetown, Ky.:

GENERAL: General Morgan crossed the Kentucky River at Proctor last nigh. He is moving on Mount Sterling. Push on to intercept him, marching at night if necessary.

By command of Major General E. Kirby Smith:

W. R. BOGGS,

Colonel and Chief of Engineers.

HEADQUARTERS ARMY OF KENTUCKY,
Lexington, Ky., September [24] 1862.

Brigadier General HUMPHREY MARSHALL,

Commanding C. S. Forces, Mount Sterling, Ky.:

GENERAL: The major-general commanding directs me to state to you that according to reliable information General Morgan's command reached the Kentucky River last night (23d). He appears to be moving