F.K. Zollicoffer to Samuel Cooper, September 13, 1861
General S. COOPER, Adjutant-General C. S. A.: After consultation with the Tennessee commissioners to Frankfort, and with prominent citizens of Kentucky, I unhesitatingly advise that the movement of General Zollicoffer be stopped at the State line. The commissioners urge the withdrawal of General Polk’s force. Politically it would be a positive gain. The commissioners believe if General Polk should withdraw that the Federals would also withdraw. I think — differently; but, even if it were otherwise, they say our doings in the State would more than compensate for the loss even of numbers. If a withdrawalis authorized, I can rally thousands of neutrality Union men to expel the Federals. I advise that General Johnston be ordered here at once, with discretionary authority to withdraw. Immediate action is necessary. Any delay in withdrawal necessitates energetic forward movements, for which there is not adequate preparation. Our possession of Columbus is already neutralized by that of Paducah. I regard a prompt withdrawal the only, chance to unite the State. Simultaneously with withdrawal of Confederates I will issue call on all citizens + AR His Excellency JEFFERSON DAVIS: On 4th instant I sent John Marshall, Andrew Ewing, and Dr. Bowling as commissioners from Tennessee to Kentucky. They returned last night, and think it of the highest importance that our troops be withdrawh. They say withdrawal secures to us majority in the State. If not withdrawn, overwhelming majority against us and a bloody contest. They think our withdrawal secures withdrawal of Federal troops and saves the State. They are able and reliable men. I submit their report for your consideration. Richmond, September 13, 1861. Governor HARRIS, Nashville, Tenn. ; Movement to Columbus was reported to me as a defensive measure, rendered necessary by the descent of Federal troops. As a necessity it was sanctioned. If they can be safely withdrawn, it would conform to my declared policy of respect for the neutrality of ‘Kentucky. General A. S. Johnston has been directed to confer with you at Nashville. Security to Tennessee and other parts of the Confederacy is the primary – object. To this all else must give way. KNOXVILLE, September 14, 1861. Adjutant-General COOPER : Governor Harris and General Buckner telegraphed me if possible to x arrest the movement of which I apprised you on the 10th.* It is too late to arrest. To withdraw would be unfortunate, unless the Federal — forces which menace us will agree to withdraw. I have informed Govamor Magoffin through Governor Harris I will withdraw on this condition.
F. K. ZOLLICOFFER,