CHAP. XII.] CORRESPONDENCE, ETC.-UNION.

cannot on paper. I went to Camp Dick Robinson to see the camp and troops there, and found the same rumors of the approach of Zollicoffer from the Gap. I gave my orders, and then directed on Ohio regiment at Lexington to re-enforce Nelson. He is the only officer I could command on that expedition, the importance of which I admit. Nelson's reports to me warrant the belief that he will be energetic and pushing, and I hope successful. I am compelled to kept a strong force in front of Green River, and the authorities have given me very few officers, and these I have distributed to the best advantage. The Secretary of War insisted that he had fulfilled the request of the Kentuckians in Washington, and rested strongly on the people themselves, who he thought would act with vigor and promptness as soon as the legislature took positive grounds. How far they are fulfilling this supposition you can judge.

Nelson has three Ohio regiments, and the men of Marshall and some Home Guards. I also instructed General Mitchel to put a regiment at Paris. I have to work with the materials at hand; I cannot create them. The Union men must act more spontaneously and vigorously. I believe the authorities are now alive to the importance of this State, and will strain every nerve to provide the men and materials. The State Military Board has also undertaken to organize and partially equip the volunteers of the State. The President, Secretary of War, and General Anderson gave so many authority to raise regiments that it is impossible to reconcile their claims. Still I hope and trust a respectable force will be organized in Kentucky. I shall at all times be glad to hear from you, and hope you will never case your efforts to inspire your fellow-citizens with the same spirit that actuates you.

I am, &c.,

W. T. SHERMAN, Brigadier-General, Commanding.

MORGAN COUNTY, TENNESSEE, NEAR MONTGOMERY, October 22, 1861. (Received November 4.)

Brigadier-General THOMAS:

SIR: I reached here at 2 p. m. to-day. I am within 6 miles of a company of rebel cavalry. I find our Union people in this part of the State firm and unwavering in their devotion to our Government and anxious to have an opportunity to assist is saving it. The rebels continue to arrest and imprison our people.

You will please furnish the bearers with as much lead, rifle powder, and as may caps as they can bring for Scott and Morgan Counties. You need not fear to trust these people. They will open the war for you by routing these small bodies of marauding cavalry.

It is said here that buckner has 9,000 men at Bowling Green, and that Zollicoffer has 12,000. I do not give this as reliable. I find our people have suffered beyond all forbearance. Hasten on to our aid.

To-morrow night I hope to be near our railroad. I have not been able as yet to gain any information as to my prospects of success.

I am obliged to send this note unsealed.

In haste, very respectfully, your obedient servant,

WM. BLOUNT CARTER.

Since writing the within I learn there were 300 troops with 140 wagons. Report says they are going to Bowling Green, and that 20,000 more are to follow. You shall hear from me again soon.

W. B. CARTER.