D. â¬. BUELL to D. C. Buell: E, December 29, 1861
Louisville, December 29, 1861.
Brig. Gen. GEORGE H. THOMAS, Commanding First Division, Lebanon:
GENERAL: I send you a sketch of the country about Somerset which shows more of the roads than your map.* We conversed about the movement upon Zollicoffer through Columbia, and if you remember my idea it is hardly necessary to add anything on the subject.
It is for you to move against his left and endeavor to cut him off from his bridge, while Schoepf, with whom of course you must communicate, attacks in front.
The map will indicate the proper moves for that object. The result should be at least a severe blow to him or a hasty flight across the river. But to effect the former the movement should be made rapidly and secretly, and the blow should be vigorous and decided. There should be no delay after your arrival. It would be better not to have been undertaken if it should result in confining an additional force merely to watehing the enemy.
Take such portion of the cavalry from Columbia as you think necessary. Draw all the supplies you can from the country and move as light as possible.
Having accomplished the object, be ready to move promptly in any direction, but wait until you hear from me, unless circumstances should require you to move without delay, as I may want you to proceed from there to the other matter about which we have conversed.
Acknowledge the receipt of this by telegraph and report frequently.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
D. â¬. BUELL,
Brigadier- General, Commanding.
LEBANON, December 29, 1861â7.20 p. m.
General D. C. BUELL: E
Have just received a dispatch from Colonel Bramlette, dated to-dayHe reports a skirmish between a party of Haggardâs cavalry and a large
party of the enemy last night at Jamestown, 18 miles east of Columbia.
Major Owsley, who commanded the party, reports that he learned from
their eolor bearer, who was mortally wounded, that they were on their