F.K. Zollicoffer to W. D. Woop, Knoxville, November 12, 1861

Col. W. D. Woop, Knoxville :

SIR : I have cavalry scouts out on the road to Somerset and Williamsburg, which I expect in to-night. I have working parties back on the road from Jacksborough to Chitwood’s, 16 miles, and on the Big Creek road, 13 miles, which I do not wish to call in, if possible to avoid it. I have therefore thought it best not immediately to make any movement in reference to the reports you yesterday transmitted as to the 500 and the 1,500 tories. Unless you are satisfied the news is entirely reliable

you should spare no pains, through cavalry scouts or citizen outriders,

+ or true and reliable men living in the specified neighborhoods, to ascertain the precise facts, if possible, and transmit them to me, to General Cooper, to Lieutenant-Colonel Mackall, and to Brigadier-General Carrol. Jam in doubt whether my dispatches to those gentlemen were transmitted by telegraph. Please keep me advised as to the means of sending telegraphic dispatches.

The tories will probably circulate the most exaggerated and baseless stories, with a view to distract and cripple our movements. Our friends will readily give credence to them in apprehension of danger. It becomes us, therefore, to investigate these rumors and act cautiously, to avoid useless and harassing marches. I may send Captain Ashby’s squadron down the country to look after Clift; but I would prefer, before beginning to dispose of my forces, to see more distinctly the force and movements of the enemy, and to be informed how you are placing

the cavalry and infantry at your disposal. If I am not mistaken, there _

are four cavalry companies with you or on the line of the railroad. Where are they now placed? I may soon move an infantry force much nearer the Loudon Bridge, but prefer to await certain knowledge of necessity for it.

Very respectfully, :