Don Carlos Buell to George H. Thomas, December 11, 1861

(Received December 12, 1861.) General THOMAS, U. S. A., Commanding Division, Lebanon, Ky.:

SIR: I am fully satisfied General Zollieoffer’s forces do not exceed 7,500. They are increasing from the drafted recruits from Tennessee and some from Kentucky.

A spy sent to Mill Springs says the force is not over 7,500, and he

believes it is about 6,500, though enémy represent it very much larger. Hesays that only about one-half had crossed the river.

I learn satisfactorily that the force is increased daily by accessions of new recruits, ill-clad and poorly armed, and many without arms.

There is no doubt the enemy expect to furnish supplies up the Cuniberland, such as arms, clothing, &c. The enemy have eight pieces of artillery, two large guns, and six 6-pounders.

Wolford has moved the larger part of his forces to Billy Williams’ on Green River. The others will move as soon as transportation can be had. I have directed him to report to me daily as to movement of the enemy. He is only 16 miles from this place, in direction in which I have been sending scouts.

I have no quartermaster, no commissary, no blanks of any kind. Can you have them furnished?)

Respectfully, &c., J. T. BOYLE,