George H. Thomas to James B. Fry, December 7, 1861

Capt. J. B. Fry, ‘ Asst. Adjt. Gen., U. S. Army, Dept. Hdqrs., Louisville, Ky. :

OAPTAIN: The present state of affairs in the vicinity of Somerset I think will justify me in sending the Twelfth Brigade* to that place, without attracting attention. It should be removed from London on account of the extreme difficulty in hauling subsistence over the road from that place to Crab Orchard, and being at Somerset would diminish the distance and labor of supplying the troops in advance one-half.

At present it is exceedingly difficult, with the limited means of transportation we have, to keep the troops supplied. If the general approves, I will direct General Carter to move his brigade to Somerset and concentrate the other two at this point.

General Carter reports having in his camp some rebel prisoners, and Colonel Wolford has sent one to me. Shall I forward them to Louisville?

Very respectfully, your obedient servant,