Andrew J. Smith to A. Hurlbut, August 18, 1863
Commanding Sixteenth Army Corps:
GENERAL: I have the honor to inclose herewith a petition,* with my reply thereto, from most reliable Union men, introduced and vouched for by Judge Williams, asking permission to organize themselves into a mutual home organization for the purpose merely of abet their families and property. They represent their neighorhood as infested at times with small rebel or guerrilla bands, who avoid our regular scouts and watch opportunities to rob and maltreat Union men, and destroy their property. The delegation
promise me most solemnly to apprehend these guerrillas when practicable, and deliver them to me at this post, or kill, destroy, or drive them from their country. I have granted them (the petitioners) permission, you perceive, to continue their organization, and now ask your approval, with authority to issue them some arms with which to protect themselves, [ am, general,
very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Brigadier-General, Commanding.
NASHVILLE, August 18, 1863—3.30 p. m.
Major-General ROSECRANS:
Railroad. The Government, no doubt, will replace the iron belonging to the road which it has used. The force necessary is a guard.
Its construction need not be large. The labor and money necessary
can be readily obtained. Your authority for its construction, whatever agent you may select, is all that is necessary.