HEADQUARTERS RIGHT WING, December 24, 1862-12.50 p.m.

General ROSECRANS:

The continuation of the Edmondson pike intercepts the old Liberty road at Prim's blacksmith shot, from which there is a road direct to Nolensville. The old Liberty road goes to Concord church, and not to Nolensville. There will be no trouble in my column crossing Mill Creek, provided a column shows itself on the Edmondson road.

A. McD. McCOOK,
Major-General, Commanding.

DECEMBER 24, 1862.

General ROSECRANS:

Triune is 7 miles beyond Nolensville and 3 miles this side of Patten's Hill, or Bole Jack's Hill-a strong position and good water. If I do not have to fight, I can reach Triune by dark, but would prefer getting there by day, if possible.

A. McD. McCOOK.

CAMP HAMILTON, December 24, 1862-1.30 a.m.

Colonel J. P. GARESCHE:

My vedettes report a force of the enemy, with artillery, at Brentwood; his intentions not yet developed.

JAS. S. NEGLEY,

Brigadier-General.

BRENTWOOD, December 24, 1862-9 a.m.

Colonel GARESCHE:

Portion of my command at Brentwood; scouts 1 mile to the front. Enemy reported falling back. Their force was estimated at 2,000; I think it was only a surprise party. They had about 300 in ambush on the right of Franklin pike. There is no indication of an attack on this point.

JAS. S. NEGLEY,

Brigadier-General.

BEYOND BRENTWOOD, via CAMP HAMILTON, December 24, 1862-11 a.m.

Colonel J. P. GARESCHE:

Enemy fallen back to woods. Brigade of rebels reported on right of Franklin road. I have ordered a brigade forward on Wilson and one on Franklin pike 3 miles, as a reconnaissance, and to obtain forage. Have left a reserve at Brentwood. Will keep you advised.

JAS. S. NEGLEY,

Brigadier-General.

CAMP HAMILTON, December 24, 1862-4.20 p.m.

Colonel J. P. GARESCHE:

Would it not be advantageous to have some cavalry with me in the morning? If you think not, I would respectfully ask a company for couriers and messengers. I start promptly at 7 a.m.

JAS. S. NEGLEY,

Brigadier-General.