HEADQUARTERS LEFT WING, December 24, 1862-12.55 p.m.

General W. S. ROSECRANS:

I can move to La Vergne to-night, but cannot get there before night even with my front, and long after night with my rear, and, of course, cannot tell how strong a position I may fall upon. I think it would be better to move early in the morning, if it is necessary to take a strong position, and to establish communication with McCook. Please answer.

T. L. CRITTENDEN,
Major-General, Commanding.

HEADQUARTERS FOURTEENTH ARMY CORPS,

Nashville, December 24, 1862.

Brigadier-General GRANGER,

Bowling Green:

Telegram received. Bruce ordered, by forced marches, to Bowling Green, as suggested, to assist you in Morgan's capture. Lay your plans accordingly. Be sure you get good information of his strength and movements. Manson being absent, you are in command. You are to command brigade of regulars in Rousseaus' division.

By command of General Rosecrans:

J. P. GARESCHE,

Chief of Staff.

NASHVILLE, TENN., December 24, 1862.

Brigadier-General GRANGER,

Bowling Green:

Pay any money to ascertain Morgan's exact strength and position.

W. S ROSECRANS,

Major-General.

(Duplicate to General Reynolds, Gallatin.)

NASHVILLE, December 24, 1862.

Brigadier-General GRANGER,

Bowling Green:

General Reynolds has the best evidence not that Morgan crossed with about 3,000 cavalry or mounted infantry, and a few pieces of artillery. Their object will be to stampede everybody by stories of the magnitude of their force. Be on your guard on that score. Where is Bruce, and where is the Tennessee cavalry? We will catch and kill those rascals yet.

W. S. ROSECRANS,

Major-General.

NASHVILLE, TENN., December 24, 1862-11.50 a.m.

Major-General McCOOK:

You will advance with your corps to a good military position and camping ground in the vicinity of Nolensville, occupying, if practicable,