D. €. Buell to Thomas, November 29, 1861

General THOMAS: I have a communication from General Boyle; he will speak to you on the subject. I don’t expect Zollicoffer to cross the Cumberland in force, but he will try by demonstrations to drive us from Somerset, or even attack there if we are not watchful, and he will prepare the means of crossing, so as to threaten our flank if we advance. We will be organized to-day; in the mean time consider yourself in command of everything east of New Haven, but make noimportant move without referring to me, except to avert immediate danger. Bend intrenching tools rapidly to Somerset. Direct General Schoepf to throw up as rapidly as possible a small closed work for four and six guns which will command the river up and down and the crossing. Captain Prime will go down in the morning to direct it; at the same time Schoepf must watch Zollicoffer, and not only guard against his crossing, but, if possible, prevent him from collecting the means of doing so. Send five companies of cavalry to Schoepf for scouts, if you think proper. Get your regiments in order as rapidly as possible and be always ready to move. I wish to avoid for the present anything like threatening demonstrations, and only be prepared for emergencies until we are ready to act.

D. €. BUELL,